11.2 Resolve

"You're not getting rid of me that easily." You reply brusquely while forcing yourself to appear more determined than you currently feel.

The skeptical look James sends your way reminds you of your all-too-real uncertainty. Resolving not to allow your doubt to progress, you summon what little strength you have left. Quickly striding forward, you pass the man wordlessly and begin continuing onward. You're unfortunately stopped short when he swiftly grabs your wrist.

"I admire your commitment," He starts apprehensively while pulling you back in line with him. "But, I can't help questioning it."

Raising your brow angrily, you exhale in exasperation, then quickly turn to face the accusatory man.

"So, was this your plan all along?" You snap, trying to jerk your arm out of his grasp. "Get me out here alone then abandon me?"

"Look," He gruffly replies while forcing your arm still. "You made it to the hangar on your own. I thought you'd be an asset not a liability."

"A liability?" You scoff loudly, looking up at the man irately. "If it weren't for me you'd still be stuck at that hangar."

James' expression is equally displeased though somewhat strained. His brown eyes are dark and conflicted as they take in your annoyed face. Uncomfortable tension hangs in the air as you continue your silent exchange. After a moment he finally lets out a deep sigh and the hand around your arm loosens.

"You're right." He admits rather begrudgingly while you slip out of his grip. "I'm just anxious to get out of here."

"I can tell." You mutter, rubbing your sore arm. "But we'll have better luck working together."

He nods in affirmation before pushing hair out of his eyes. After giving him a wary look you hesitantly turn to continue forward. James remains quiet as you briskly progress through the increasingly thick brush. The day remains caustically hot even after the sun has finally set. Breathing out deeply, you slowly sink to the ground and lean against a fallen tree. After wiping your sweaty brow, you glance up at James briefly. The previously felt tension has yet to dissipate despite your **** alliance. While you had been tempted to simply part ways, you're hardly keen on being alone again.

When James moves to start setting up a campfire, you hurriedly stand back up. Every muscle in your body is begging you to sit back down. However, you're acutely aware of your continued need to prove yourself. After taking in a deep breath, you begin scavenging for suitable kindling material. James casts you a skeptical glance but remains silent. A few minutes later you're sitting several feet away from the fire's muted glow. The added heat is an unfortunate accessory to the necessary light. You slowly roll up the sleeves of your flannel while James restlessly paces around the vicinity.

"So," You speak once you're somewhat more comfortable. "What is the plan from here?"

James ceases his movement for a moment before scoffing brusquely.

"I don't know," He mutters curtly and begins stalking about again. "Why don't you think of something?"

"What?" You retort back hotly while crossing your arms. "This was your idea!"

The man pauses again while throwing you a rather unfavorable look. This response only causes your blood to boil. Gritting your teeth, you try to ignore your growing feelings of anger. You exhale in frustration before tugging at your clothes. James eyes briefly return to your form as you pull the slightly damp flannel away from your sweaty skin. The added warmth from the fire is only adding to your discomfort.

"Will you at least stand still." You grumble and move further out of the flames' heat. "You're making me nervous."

"Will you stop talking if I do?" The man retorts sharply while turning to face you.

Your jaw flexes as your teeth clench again. It's clear the heat and circumstances are getting the best of you. Closing your eyes, you attempt to drown out the feelings of animosity.

"That's better" You hear him mumble under his breath before your eyes snap back open.

"What is your problem?" You demand, quickly scrambling up and storming up to the man.

"I would be so much further," He bursts out, his face contorting in fury. "If you weren't slowing me down."

"You're kidding." You laugh in surprise, unable to contain your emotions. "You would have taken several wrong turns if it weren't for me."

James glowers at you for a moment before leaning down threateningly.

"Don't make me regret this." He growls impatiently as his eyes flash wildly. "I will send you back."

"You wouldn't dare." You call his bluff while straightening your back confidently.

There's a small pause as the man regards you somewhat thoughtfully. You see his eyes move across your exposed neck and travel down to your barely covered chest. The increased heat led you to undoing more buttons than you had realized. Exhaling in exasperation, you turn to leave only to be stopped by the man. His fingers tightly grip the lapel of your shirt and jerk you towards him.

"Maybe not." He concedes to your earlier accusation while running his other hand against your slick clavicle. "But you're not getting away that easily."

Your brow knits in confusion before your gaze travels down the man's broad form and it becomes clear.