In contrast, Bryce, climbing for leisure, had hired help for his gear, allowing him to ascend with ease.

Eloise, on her first mountain climb, was abuzz with excitement, chatting eagerly with Mitchel.

Her enthusiasm was infectious, though it soon waned, replaced by a weary silence.

Initially trailing, Raegan steadily gained on the group.

Exhausted, Eloise called out for a break, parched and fatigued.

Bryce, too, showed signs of exhaustion, his forehead beaded with sweat.

As they drank, Raegan pushed on, announcing, “I'll continue upward."

Impressed, Bryce nodded, resting with Eloise at the trail's edge.

Further up, Raegan's thirst intensified.

She reached for her water bottle, but a sudden rustle halted her.

The wilderness was unnerving.

She turned around, only to recoil at the sight of Mitchel's looming figure.

Raegan was teetering on the brink of a fall, but Mitchel's swift hand caught her.

The next instant, Raegan tumbled into Mitchel's embrace, the water bottle escaping her grip.

Surrounded by jagged rocks, a fall could be disastrous.

Instinctively, Raegan clung to Mitchel, her face against his sturdy chest.

And there, against him, she heard the rhythmic assurance of his heartbeat.

Raegan took some time to recognize the overly close nature of their stance.

She inhaled sharply and leaped away from Mitchel's embrace.

Her reaction made Mitchel's attractive features darken.