The morning was absolutely beautiful. Sun peeking over the horizon, painting the blue sky in different strokes of pink, orange, and purple. But when the hike began, John was… slower than usual. “Slow it ‘fore I bust a lung,” He breathlessly chuckled.

Finally, the two of you made it to the top, and John wasted no time taking a heavy seat on a log lying on its side. “Might be our last hike for a while mate,” He solemnly spoke, calloused hand resting on your back. “Don’t move like I used to..."