Chapter 2 - The Soldier's Choice
Thomas knew the risks of what he was about to do.
In a war zone, survival was a calculation of weight and speed. Carrying a child meant slower movement, more stops, and a high probability of drawing enemy attention. He could leave Liam here, with a ration bar and a canteen of water, hoping a rescue patrol would find him. That was the logical, military decision.
But as Thomas looked at the boy’s tiny, calloused hands and the absolute trust beginning to form in his eyes, he thought of his own son back in Ohio, sleeping safely in a warm bed.
"No," Thomas muttered to himself, strapping his helmet back on. "I'm not leaving you."
He picked Liam up, the boy weighing almost nothing in his arms. He adjusted his tactical vest, ensuring his rifle was accessible, and set off toward the north.
The journey was a slow, agonizing test of nerves. Every rustle of wind through the dry leaves, every distant crack of a sniper’s rifle made Thomas freeze, shielding Liam’s body with his own. The boy was silent, clinging to Thomas’s neck like a baby koala, his head buried in the dusty fabric of the soldier's collar.
"Are we going to see my mama?" Liam asked quietly as they huddled behind a rusted car frame to let an enemy scout car pass.
May you like
Thomas felt a sharp, painful knot in his throat. He had passed the ruins of the residential sector; he knew there was no one left to go back to.
"We're going to a safe place, Liam," Thomas said softly, his hand gently stroking the boy’s messy hair. "A place with warm food and beds. I promise."
