It’s the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard.
Well, other than his groans last night, of course.
But we did it.
Actually did it.
I’m laughing, he’s grinning, and then he’s picking me up and spinning me around like we just won the lottery.
“We’re geniuses,” I announce when he sets me down.
“You’rea genius.” He’s still holding me, his hands on my waist. “I’m just the guy who followed directions.”
“Best direction-follower I’ve ever met,” I announce.
And then he’s kissing me. Hard. Celebratory. His mouth tastes like diesel fuel and something that’s becoming dangerously familiar.
When we break apart, both breathing hard, I realize it’s not just physical attraction anymore. Nor just forced proximity or survival instinct.
It’s...partnership.
We make a good team.
My knowledge, his resources.
My field experience, his willingness to learn.
My optimism, his determination.
Oh shit.
I think I’m really really falling for him.
“Come on.” He grabs my hand, lacing our fingers together. “Let’s go charge those devices and call for rescue.”
Right. Rescue.
The thing we’ve been waiting for.
The thing that will end this.
Though it’s only four forty, it’s getting dark. The sun sets early this time of year, and it’s already behind the mountain.
We make it about ten steps before the cold reminds us we’re idiots. My fingers are already going numb, that pins-and-needles sensation that’s the precursor to actual frostbite.
“Gloves,” I say reluctantly.
“Right.” He releases my hand and we both fumble in our pockets, pulling on the thick insulated gloves that make holding hands impossible unless we want to look like we’re wearing oven mitts.
We trudge back through the snow, no longer touching.
It’s stupid how much I miss the hand-holding.
It’s been literally thirty seconds.
You’re not thirteen.
Pretty sure hand-holding shouldn’t be the thing that makes you feel feelings.
