Chapter 3

Madison

Element- The elements of the weather, especially wind and rain.

We leave the boat pulled up on the shore simply, no one is going to take such a battered rowboat. I feel it’s my duty to carry the box in case it’s dangerous—I can’t bear the thought of James or Ryan getting sick or growing extra limbs.

The box is unusually light. I feel like I have more energy as we push through the heavy brush towards home. It’s the hope of a decent meal that’s giving me a boost.

In our tiny, dirty kitchen, we sit silently around the table and share a piece of dry bread with the box gingerly resting between us. I’m still hungry afterward, and I know my brothers are still...

Please subscribe to keep reading.