17

Trying to catch her breath, Nic seems to take a moment to recover—but then suddenly recognition dawns in her eyes, and she lets out a laugh.

"Oh—hi!" she says, though not yet releasing her defensive hold on her backpack straps.

Nic laughs, seeming to reciprocate your feelings.

"Yeah—of all the people to run into! Kind of wild, huh?"

Nic continues, "Wow, I thought I was way out here on my own. I wasn't working today, so I decided to go for a walk—are you heading out too? Because I have my van, and I could give you a ride back to town if you want."

Nic gives an understanding nod. You think she must know how important alone time is.

Before she goes, however, she says:

"That's fine. At least it's a nice day for walking. I'll see you around!"

With that, Nic waves goodbye and sets off at a brisk walk towards the edge of the trees. Once she's disappeared from view, you start heading in the same direction through the quiet trees.

The path out of the forest isn't very long, but you take your time going along it, all the while thinking that: