Desperate Escape. Lisa Harris

else for her to know what he was thinking. Once the epidemic was under control, she’d be disposable—all of them would be—just like Gavin.

      “But how do we get out of here?” Maddie asked. “If they’re guarding the airstrip and the only other way off this island is by water...”

      Grant looked around the camp. “We’re looking at a couple dozen armed men who are currently focused more on what they’re drinking than us at the moment.”

      “But if they catch us a second time,” Maddie said. “They’ll shoot first and ask questions later.”

      Her stomach knotted. She set down the plate of food beside her, knowing he was right. This was it. There would be no second reprieve.

      Someone slipped through the shadows behind them and sat down on the log next to Maddie. Jose’s mother. She was carrying an infant tied securely around her back with a piece of wide, colorful cloth. Sliding the baby around in front of her, the mother pulled her out of the makeshift sling and handed the baby to Maddie.

      Maddie took the infant and cradled her in her arms.

      “I think she might have the sickness.” She lowered her voice, her eyes on the guards who sat on the other side of the fire, and added, “You helped save my son. I’m going to help you escape.”