Page 26 of Hearts Don't Lie
“It really is,” she said deliberately, not looking at him. “One of my favorite places just tobe.” She nibbled at her trail mix and found herself entranced by the rapids.
He sat next to her and inhaled his snack, chasing it down with water. “Do you have more?”
“Maybe taste this one?” Mac handed him another packet.
“Ha ha ha,” he said good-naturedly. “Midwest girl, transplanted to the Colorado mountains, owning a wilderness guide business that includes backpacking, hiking and peak ascents, and rock climbing. It begs the question of why, especially since I know you didn’t do any of this as a kid or teen.”
Mac considered how to best answer without revealing too much. She sipped her water, studying him, then shared her story in the briefest, most truthful way possible. “A friend of a friend suggested I move here, and even though it was winter, I knew immediately I wanted to stay. I met Cori almost right away and we became fast friends. She’s about five years older than me, a native Coloradan.”
“This is the same Cori I met?”
“Yes.” Mac nodded and smiled. “I went out hiking and on a few primitive camping trips with her after summer arrived, and I was hooked. She enthusiastically shared her dream of having a wilderness guide business. I had a little bit of money saved, as did she. We started small, working out of our homes and sharing storage with another business in Piñon Ridge. Going after our certifications, like wilderness first aid and CPR, and permits for commercially guided activities. Cori’s grandfather passed away and left her some money, which allowed us to rent our storefront with a storage area and hire some key staff. After our first six months in business, we branched out from backpacking and hiking trips, adding team building and survival training and outdoor skills. Those programs were geared toward specific age groups, like middle schoolers, teens and adults. We were able to get our information out to schools, way ahead of the summer season. Our middle school and teen camps have been full every summer. Of course, we’re members of Piñon Ridge’s Chamber of Commerce, which helps to further promote Intrepid Adventures. It’s been challenging and lean, but so much fun. Every day is different. I love living here.”
Hardin slid his sunglasses onto the top of his dark head, then reached over and squeezed her shoulder, his fingers seeming to linger, the act sending wonderful sparks through her body. “You’re amazing, Mac,” he said earnestly, smiling wide, spectacular eyes beaming with pride.
She was speechless. His touch. That blinding smile. Those aqua eyes. All she could do was swallow and nod, then smile weakly.
He stood and slid his sunglasses back into place. Hardin’s smirk had a naughty edge to it as he extended his hand to Mac. “Shall we? You told me this morning we have a long, rigorous day.”
