For the next ten minutes, Lexie kept her head bowed in deep concentration, desperately mapping out a strategy that would guarantee the survival of her family and young Ciel.
The only logical choice was an immediate, organized evacuation. They had to abandon their home and escape the sector before the forest fire swallowed the entire neighborhood.
"Mom!" Lexie shouted, her eyes snapping open as she finalized her decision.
Her mother looked up instantly, as did Ciel, who was snapped out of the terrifying thoughts racing through his mind.
"I have made up my mind," Lexie declared firmly. "I am the only one among us who has been out there tonight, and I know for a fact that the situation outside is far worse than we ever imagined. Even if we stay here, we will never survive hiding in the basement."
Her mother looked at her tenderly, trying to offer comfort. "I know, my dear. Just by looking at the two of you, I can tell you witnessed unspeakable horrors tonight."
