#Chapter 213: Pawprints in the Grass

Olivia The gentle roar of the waterfall faded as we began our walk back to the cabin. The sun sat low in the sky, casting a golden hue over everything and bathing the forest in warm, soft light. It seemed like the woods themselves were holding their breath, waiting for the magic hour to fully descend. Nathan reached out, lacing his fingers through mine. His grip was firm, yet gentle—a constant reminder of his steadfast presence. The path was uneven, a mosaic of roots, rocks, and moss, but with Nathan by my side, I felt grounded, even invincible. As we approached a steeper part of the trail, Nathan’s free hand automatically went to my waist, steadying me. A particularly tricky section had rocks acting like nature’s staircase. Nathan went first, turning around to guide me down. “Give me your other hand,” he said. I did, and with his hands securely holding mine, I felt the reassuring pull of his strength as I navigated the uneven terrain. Every step I took, Natha