Annie's POV:
At dusk, the column set up camp in a sheltered valley.
The first night of a march always brought a sense of inexplicable excitement.
The campfire was lit quickly, and food was distributed just as fast; the soldiers, who hadn't yet seen bloodshed, chatted and laughed in the glow of the flames.
I didn't join the crowd but walked straight to the campfire near the medical truck. Just as I was about to spread a blanket out for Jack, a bundle suddenly fell at my feet.
It was dried meat and bread wrapped in coarse cloth.
I looked up to see Alexander standing right in front of me, staring into the fire.
He looked as if he'd decided to come over, then forgotten why. He stood there, clutching the bundle, then set it at my feet and took two steps back to keep his distance.
"You'r
