Chapter 3

“Hello,” they chorused as they approached Cody.

“Great day for it,” said the man.

Cody stepped to one side to let them pass. “It is,” he replied, smiling and bowing his head to avoid eye contact.

The happy couple walked by, and without giving them a second look, Cody continued on his way, half-expecting them to call out a cheery “goodbye.”

* * * *

At around midday, he came across a large granite outcrop and decided it would make a great place to have lunch. He’d packed chicken-and-salad sandwiches for his first meal in the wilderness. They were fresh and delicious.

After lunch, he allowed himself a few minutes to relax and let his modest meal settle in his stomach. The sun felt good on his face, and on the exposed flesh of his arms and legs. Resting on his backpack, he could have almost nodded off. The combination of a long walk, food, and the warm sun made him feel suddenly lethargic.