Claus’s head jerked up. He pushed off the couch, his body protesting, but he ignored the pain lancing his side. He ran outside, his heart slamming against his ribs.

She was on the ground, her ankle caught in a wire snare, one of Carol’s booby traps. The device had yanked her off her feet, leaving her twisted awkwardly, fear flashing across her face.

“Claus!” she shouted, panic threading her voice.

“Stay still,” he ordered, dropping to his knees beside her.

“Don’t move, cariño, ...