#Chapter 78: Safety Scares

Relief washed over me at the sight of our friends, and I felt tears beginning to prick my eyes.

I started to stand, but one of the paramedics next to me pulled me right back down. "You need to stay seated while we're still checking your vitals and for further signs of injuries."

Lucas noticed that something was capturing my attention, so he looked toward the woods where the police were helping James, Victoria, and Emily. Victoria's parents were already running to them, and I could hear her mother's screams of terror.

"They're okay," Lucas said in a quiet voice as if he was reassuring himself. "They're okay."

I couldn't blame his fear... When we got back down the mountain and I realized the rest of us weren't down there, I began to worry about their safety.

Paramedics rushed over, signaling everyone to clear out and give them space. They all looked worn out and broken down. James's usual smile and carefree face morphed into a tough stone. Even Emily, who had been bubbly and cheerful th