Page 221 of Rangers Mountain Rescue

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Clean shot.

He drops instantly.

Grandpa stumbles forward—

Aspen is there before he can fall.

“Grandpa!” she cries, wrapping her arms around him.

He clings to her like he remembers her.

Like he feels safe.

Even if he doesn’t fully understand why.

“I couldn’t find the house,” he says softly. “I got lost…”

Her face crumples.

“I know,” she whispers, holding him tighter. “It’s okay. I’ve got you.”

I step closer.

Scan.

All threats down.

Team clear.

Good.

But I don’t relax.

Not yet.

Not when she’s still shaking.

Not when he’s still confused.

Not when this could’ve gone worse.

So much worse.

I crouch beside them.

Gentler now.

“Hey,” I say quietly.

Grandpa looks at me.

Suspicious.

Confused.

“Who’re you?” he asks.

Aspen lets out a soft, tearful laugh.

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