Dread exploded in Mike’s gut. This man hadn’t been a victim—he’d feigned injury. The trap was real, but maybe not as dangerous as it looked. The stranger’s grin was chilling. Nicole raised her hands defensively, trying to shield Mike. The bear rumbled a low growl.
“Move!” the man barked. He motioned them forward into the darkness, leading them off the faint trail. The bear kept its distance, lumbering behind as if unsure what to do. Mike’s heart hammered. He cursed his own helplessness, uncertain how they’d escape this deadly charade.