Eli’s heart clenched at the little girl’s words. The storm seemed to pause for a moment, as if holding its breath. He wrapped her in his coat, trying to shield her from the piercing cold. Her small body was alarmingly light and cold to the touch. He could feel Max hovering close, his presence a steady comfort in the swirling chaos.
The journey back to the cabin felt endless. Each step was a battle against the wind and snow, but Eli moved with a determination honed through years of military service. Max trotted beside him, casting worried glances at the bundle in Eli’s arms. The little girl’s words echoed in his mind, leaving a trail of questions that gnawed at him.
Inside the cabin, Eli laid her gently by the fire. He quickly set about warming her, wrapping her in blankets and using towels to dry her hair. Her eyes remained closed, but her breaths came in small, shallow puffs of mist in the cabin air. Eli knew hypothermia could be deadly, especially for someone so young. He had to get her warm, and fast.
