Marcus took a slow breath. "Well, I was hiding behind the tree, Mama. I wanted the best hiding spot so Dae Dae and Saver wouldn't find me too fast. But then…" He scrunched his nose, trying to remember. "Someone grabbed me from behind."
I tensed. "Did you see them?"
Marcus shook his head, pouting his lips. "No, Mama… They covered my mouth before I could turn around. They were strong, Mama. I tried to kick and move and punch them with my fists, but they didn't let me go. They ran with me so fast, and I got so scared…" He paused, gripping my sleeve. "I thought I was never going to see you again, Mama..." His eyes softened, brimming with tears.
My throat tightened. I cradled him closer, pressing my lips to his hair.
"I'm here, my love. I'm right here… I'll never let anyone take you away from us…"
"I know, Mama…" Marcus sniffed, nodding firmly. "I heard them talking while they ran. They said I was 'one of their sons' and that they could make a lot of money selling me."
