As he struggled to his feet, a distant sound broke through the oppressive silence. A faint, familiar sound—a soft nicker carried on the wind. George’s heart leapt in his chest. Thunder! He was close. He wasn’t lost after all!
The sound was faint, barely audible over the rustling leaves, but it was enough to spark a surge of hope in George. He turned toward the direction of the sound and began moving as quickly as his aching legs would carry him, his heart pounding in anticipation.