“Oh, for fu—” Shannon almost snatched the bag back from Dr. Davenport, spun around, and stormed toward the trail leading back to the cabins.

Ford, who was next, held out her open backpack expressionlessly.

Dr. Davenport waited while Ford pointed out all the items, and then said quietly, “You’ve got everything on the list, but where’s your EpiPen? Remember we talked about you needing to always have it with you.”

“I don’t really need it,” Ford said quickly. “There was only that one time, and all I had was a little rash.”

Dr. Davenport shook her head. “When you have any kind of allergy, the reaction can vary from one time to the next. No matter where you are, it’s not something to take a chance with, and definitely not when we’re in the mount—”

“Oh,” Marty said, “sorry to interrupt, but I think I saw you put it in the side pocket of your backpack back at the cabin.”

Ford frowned at her. “I…” She spun her pack around, slipped her hand into one of the many exterior pockets, and came out with her EpiPen. Her eyes narrowed on Marty before she quickly said, “I guess I did stick it in there.”

“Good,” Dr. Davenport said and moved on.

Ford muttered, “What the fuck, Marty,” but just then Chase called out, “Let’s form up in twos and head for High Meadow Trail.”

Marty hesitated, expecting everyone to pair off with friends. Ford glanced toward the trail where Shannon had disappeared, and sighed. “Um. So, I guess we should go.”

“Okay,” Marty said.

As they fell into line, Ford said, “Why did you do that? Take my pen and stick it in my backpack.”

“I don’t know,” Marty said. “I saw it there after you left, and I figured it might be something you should have with you. I just grabbed it.”

They didn’t know how to explain that they’d been taught that everyone on the team had to look out for everyone else. Ford, for sure, wouldn’t think of Marty as any kind of teammate.

“You could’ve said that instead of bailing me out.”

“That wasn’t much of a bailout.”

“Well…thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” Marty said softly.

They walked on in silence, but Ford didn’t hurry off to join any of the others when she had the chance. Marty trod along enjoying the views, the scents of pine and fertile soil, and the unexpected company.

* * *