Jacob had gathered two thick piles of leaves, which they would use as beds tonight. He figured they just needed a little drying out and then should do just fine. Each time he asked her if she was all right, she simply nodded her head absently before shivering for the hundredth time. At least she was acknowledging him now, if not actually saying anything back.“You know, Athel, I’m pretty sure it’s just the two of us now. I just don’t see how the others could have survived that storm.” He folded his hands across his knees, letting out a deep breath as a puff of steam rose up. “You know, Eric and I used to play together as children. I’ve known him my whole life. Not that we’re very much alike, mind you.” He laughed as he gazed up to the night sky.The moon was hidden by dark clouds, and even the stars couldn’t penetrate the black cloak. An owl hooted off in the distance, pulling him momentarily from his happy childhood memories. Within seconds the hoot was answered by a distant howling, most likely a wolf or coyote.
