Chapter 47

Justine gave a shaky nod. I supposed he wanted to convince me I'm mistaken, but he doesn't because he actually understands it ain't going to help him. Either that, or he's realizing that not everyone in our group was as tough as he was. Diana was already frail, and he and I both understand she does not have to overhear him sounding so pretty bleak and terrible. "Perhaps we should halt for the evening. We won't be able to keep up this speed for much longer. Diana's feet were already in poor condition. If we continue like this, we will have to carry her the rest of the period." He scowled as he stared at Diana.  "We haven't even gotten that far," he said. "In dry heat, I've gone significantly further in one straight, with seventy pounds of equipment tethered to my shoulders." I almost smiled broadly. "Diana was a schoolgirl, not a seasoned like-Navy officer like you. She can't possibly keep up with you. For that phenomenon, neither can the rem