A partially burned bush saved them, the blackened trunk catching their arms and halting their descent to the fire.

  Both John and Lia screamed as their arms shrieked with pain and their hands loosened grip to slide along their arms. As their hands met, they held tight, their bodies slamming against each other under the bush.

  If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it's taken without the author's consent. Report it.

  Breathing heavily in the hot air, they held in an embrace with their free arms, the respite brief.

  “We have to get out of here,” John let go of Lia and grabbed her belt with his loose hand. He started the work of boosting the woman up the slope, yet their hands still held tight to the bush trunk.