Fingertips barely extended over the lip of the hole, Aaron struggled to hang on with one hand while Eliza hoisted herself up his leg, reaching for his outstretched hand. Her fingers landed in his palm, and he attempted to pull her up, but her hand was slick with sweat and slipped free just as he was about to toss her up to reach solid ground. Letting out a small yelp, she grabbed hold of his boot and started the process again.

“You’ve got it, Eliza.” He tried to keep the ...