As the carriage rumbled along the lonely road, Henry's fingers curled into trembling fists. His heart pounded so loudly he was certain she could hear it.
He stole a glance at the young woman.
She remained focused on the scenery beyond the window, her expression unreadable. The chain attached to the green collar around his neck rested loosely in her palm, as though she had no fear that he would attempt to flee.
This is my chance.
Keeping his movements slow and deliberate, Henry reached for the carriage door. His fingers wrapped around the handle, and with the slightest push, it creaked open.
The young woman's eyes flickered toward him.
Before she could react, Henry hurled himself out of the moving carriage.
The moment he hit the ground, pain exploded through his body. His face scraped against the rough road as he rolled across the dirt.
Then the chain snapped taut.
It had wrapped itself around one of the carriage wheels.
