Chapter 28

Mateo was rubbing the back of his feet when he saw Elena walking towards his direction. Despite Elena being an older woman, she had been a great friend to him, and had been like a mother to him since he didn't really know who is mother was.

"How are you doing?" Elena said, touching him gently on the shoulders.

Mateo smiled faintly at Elena's touch, grateful for her presence. "I've been better," he admitted, glancing down at his sore feet. "These long walks are starting to take their toll."

Elena nodded sympathetically. "You've been pushing yourself too hard, Mateo. Remember to take breaks and listen to your body."

He sighed, realizing she was right. "I know, I just feel like there's so much to do, so much at stake."

"Sometimes," Elena said softly, "the most important thing is to take care of yourself. You can't help others if you're not well."