The fire burned closer. Mia clutched Rily’s hand as they ran through the smoke and ash coughing. Her skin stung for the embers that floted around them, the smell of the smoke choaking her and the heat burning her throat. Tears tried to form in her eyes but the dry air caused them to sting.

“We can’t get out!” Rily cried, suddenly stopping pulling Mia to a halt amid the flames. She clutched at her...