Gray After Dark

Surviving on mountain berries, Brent and Wes have dramatically lost weight. Despite searching in several directions, they can find no further traces of Miley’s hair. Brent is reluctant to hunt or light a campfire as it may give away their presence. Wes agrees to Brent’s proposal that they search for one more week before giving up. Brent silently promises Miley, “I’ve got you” (239).

Miley focuses on performing chores, smiling at Hamish, and deferring to Fred. After 33 days, Hamish announces they are getting married the following day. Miley fakes a joyful reaction by imagining she is with Brent. She feels Mary tense when Fred announces they will cook two roosters for the wedding supper. Miley feels compassion for the chickens and Mary. She tries not to think about what will happen to Mary if she escapes.

Wes sprains his ankle, and Brent leaves him to rest, promising to return with food. Suddenly, he sees more strands of Miley’s hair in the undergrowth. Brent returns for Wes, and they follow the new trail, hindered by Wes’s injury. Brent shoots a rabbit that crosses their path, providing the first meal they have had in days.