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I’m not physically tired, but mentally, I’m exhausted.

After getting a glass of water from the kitchen, I settle back onto the couch, taking a long sip before setting it down on my coffee table. Then, leaning back, I let my head fall against the cushions and take a deep breath, just staring out the window into the night.

It’s as if my soul is aching.

No way I can go to sleep like this.

My phone vibrates, pulling my gaze from the outside. I pick it up to find a text from Misha.

What could he want this late?

Misha

You up?

It’s scary how quickly that pulls me out of my pit of self-pity, and I can’t help but smile.

What kind of booty call is this?

:)

Not that kind. Unless you want it to be?

Rolling my eyes, I reply.

What’s up? It’s 3 a.m. You okay?

Sure, I was getting ready for my hike and thought maybe you wanna join?

Oh my God, yes.

That is a much better alternative to staying here alone and dwelling on what was said during that awful phone call.

Yes, please.

Do you have hiking boots and a jacket? It’s cold before the sun comes up.

I stand and walk over to the utility room to make sure. And there, in the back, is my hiking gear with boots, backpack, and jacket.

I do.

Got a headlamp too?

I’ve never hiked in the dark before, so I haven’t thought of buying one.

Shit.

Is that necessary? Because I don’t.

Mine should be fine for both of us.

I’ll just have to keep you close.

:)

Meet you in ten.

In ten?