Get back, he said, and pushed her into the bushes. The branches scratched her, but she only let out a grunt.

They held their breath and listened to padding paws, confusing their own heartbeats with tough skin on hard floor. Minutes passed before he pulled her up and out. He dusted her off; she opened her mouth. He said no.

He pulled her close and they moved on, walking slowly. It was getting dark, and she slid her hand into his. He started and looked back, his eyes momentarily wide, before nodding and pulling her forward.

They kept close to the walls, barely breathing. She could feel him sweating; she knew he was scared too. It made her feel a little better. At times he would stop in his tracks, his head cocked to the side. At times he broke into a jog, pulling her onwards.

They were nearing a corner when she stumbled, falling to her knees and dragging him down with her. He swore and stood quickly, lips quivering. She looked behind and saw eyes; she pulled him down again and ran. She heard him scream.