Years later, Travis could still quote Bennett’s teachings.
Sometimes entire passages surfaced in his mind without warning.
But gradually, other memories became louder.
Corbin mocking Bennett under his breath.
Colby complaining about trail food before the kidnapping.
The three of them arguing over whose turn it was to carry equipment.
The green pickup.
The first morning.
The lives they had before someone tried to erase them.
Travis eventually returned once to the Elephant Arch trailhead.
Not alone.
His parents went with him.
So did members of Colby and Corbin’s families.
The old visitor area had changed.
Different signs.
Different vehicles.
Different people.
But the rocks looked the same.
Travis stood beside the place where Corbin’s green truck had been parked ten years earlier.
His mother asked quietly:
“Do you want to leave?”
Travis shook his head.
Not yet.
He looked toward the canyon.
For years, he had believed surviving meant becoming whatever Bennett needed him to be.
Silent.
Obedient.
Useful.
Forgetful.
