John and Gant knew they would catch Davis and his companions in due time, no matter where they went.
***
A few hours later, Ryder woke up, his arm painful and throbbing. He had to squint to protect his eyes from the bright late morning sun. Looking around, he seemed to be alone. One wagon remained nearby, apparently filled with supplies. He tried to stand but became light-headed and sat back down.
“Oh, so you’re finally up,” said Levi as he walked over to him. “How about something to eat?”
Ryder shook his head. “Where is everyone?”
“John and Gant have gone after Davis and the others. Your friends have headed home and the old Guard have either taken off or are camped along the south road. The tent people helped themselves to a few things in the lower level and then went back to their homes.”
Ryder again attempted to stand, still unstable. He held his throbbing head in his hands. Levi grabbed his good arm and helped him up. Levi wasn’t in much better shape after his ordeal. “They were supposed to wait for me,” said Ryder. “Why did they let me sleep?”
“You’re kidding, right? You weren’t in any condition to go with them. You would have just slowed them down.” Levi handed him a canteen of water.
Ryder took several gulps and handed the canteen back. “What now?”
“We’ll have a long relaxing ride back to Paradise in this wagon. It’ll be good to see mom and dad.”
“You’re right, it will.” Ryder paused. “You look better.” He forced a smile.
“Thanks.”
Ryder turned solemn. “Darby?”
“He’s in the back of the wagon. We found body bags in the infirmary. We’re taking him home.”
“Let’s get out of this place,” suggested Ryder.
“You won’t get any argument from me.”
***
Thank you for reading Exodus,
the second book in the Aftershock Series.
In book three, going beyond borders is
hazardous to one’s health.
Please check out my website at adventurewithmike.com
Exodus Page 23