Her eyes stayed locked on the rooftop. The orchard felt suspended in time, even the wind holding its breath. Alex leaned in closer, peering into the nest’s shadowy depths. Samantha’s heart pounded. She felt as though the weight of the moment might crush her.
Seconds dragged mercilessly. Samantha stood rigid, trying to keep herself from crying out. Her thoughts spiraled: what if Pablo was hurt? What if it was already too late? She squeezed her eyes shut, sending a desperate prayer into the stillness. Please let him be okay. Please let him be alive.