Page 331 of Rangers Mountain Rescue

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Alive.

Thank God.

“You’re safe,” I say.

My voice comes out rough.

Not soft.

Not gentle.

But real.

They don’t move at first.

Don’t believe it.

Wouldn’t either.

“It’s okay,” I add, quieter now.

Briggs steps up beside me.

“Let’s get them out.”

Yeah.

Let’s.

Behind me,the CIA agent approaches.

Slower now.

More cautious.

He looks into the truck.

Then at me.

“You were right,” he says.

I don’t answer.

Because this?

This isn’t about being right.

This is about ending it.

And we’re not done yet.

Not even close.

I glance at the ground.

Boot prints.

Fresh.

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