*Shelby*

The path up to the highest point of the island was a relentless incline, each step a battle against the pull of gravity and underbrush. I could feel my muscles burning with the effort as Lin, Aubrey, and I pushed toward what we hoped was the salvation of higher ground. The island's heart seemed to beat within the wild foliage, secrets that whispered from every shattered column and crumbled archway we passed.

"Check this out," Lin called, her voice laced with awe as she ...