Karl's fingers trembled as he reached into his robe pocket. For a moment he thought he had nothing, but then his hand brushed against the small emergency pouch Ruby had always insisted he carry. A shaky smile spread across his face. "Wife…" he whispered under his breath, clutching it tightly. Inside, nestled between bandages and small items, was the phone.
He pulled it out quickly, his heart pounding, and pressed the button. The line rang once, twice—then connected.
"Karl! Where are you!!!" Ruby's voice burst through, filled with worry but also relief.
Tears welled in his eyes the second he heard her. His voice broke as he answered, "I don't know… I don't know where I am. There's a witch here—she said her business almost got destroyed because of you… I don't understand, Wife, I don't know what to do…" His voice cracked into a sob, fear lacing every word.
"Calm down, Karl!" Ruby's voice was steady, strong, the anchor he needed.
