Sumin talked a lot.

She talked about Incheon.

Her family. Her dog.

The soldiers.

Hair ribbons.

Sleep.

I didn't talk much.

I mostly listened.

But it made the walk easier.

"Jieun, You're from Seoul, right?"

"Yes."

"Were you there when the Reds attacked?"

"Yes."

"Wow."

Her awestruck face.

It was amusing.

"How'd you get out?"

"I lived in the southern area.

I got lucky."

"Wow."

"Don't talk too much."

I panted.

"You'll waste water."

She laughed, and kept talking.

I grew to love her laugh.

Youngjae, look, I made a friend.