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“It’s an amazing feeling driving with the doors off. Very different from closing yourself in. I feel connected to the environment around me, like I’m a part of nature.”
“Or traffic.” She points to the busy city street.
“Or that, but we’re not staying in the city for long. And with the Bimini on, we still get shade from the sun. Like I said, we’re not closed off from the world like we’d be with the hard top and doors on.”
“If you say so. Is it hard to take the doors off?”
“Not really. It takes a bit of effort. They’re somewhat heavy. I can do it, no problem. You might want some help.”
“You calling me weak?”
“I’d never say you were weak, but you might struggle.”
“I’m just teasing.”
“I know.” I wink, loving the back and forth. “If you want, I can let you put the doors back on, all by yourself, when we’re at my place.”
“Your place? Thought this was just a hike and getting to know you kind of thing?”
“It is a hike. I’m very interested in getting to know you better, but I figured between your place and mine, we’ll have more privacy at mine.”
“Then I need to pack a few more things.” Without missing a beat, Barbi runs back inside, leaving me at the curb. While she’s gone, I pack our food in my pack and check on the directions.
Barbi sprints out of the townhouse a few minutes later with a small overnight bag. Then we’re on our way, chatting and laughing about everything and nothing the whole way.
“So where are we going?” Barbi leans back, enjoying the wind on her face.
“Redwood Creek Trail.”
“Sounds interesting.”
“It’s in Redwood National Park and is one of my favorite hikes. Giant redwoods. Following the coastline. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks. It’s not overly crowded. You come across some hikers but get plenty of time alone on the trail as well. And it’s not super vigorous. Mostly flat. I think you’re going to enjoy it.”
“It sounds perfect just listening to you describe it. You know, I’ve lived here for years, yet I’ve never seen the Sequoias. Nor have I visited Yosemite.”
“You’re kidding?”
“No. I just get wrapped up in the city. And for the past four years, all I cared about was hitting the books, getting good grades, and getting into law school.”
“I didn’t know you were going to law school. That’s pretty cool. Does that mean I’ve met you only to lose you this fall?”
“Well, aren’t you in luck. I’m staying here.”
“Well, hot damn, I’m one lucky guy. You know what?”
“What?”
“I’m going to make a list of my favorite places. Yosemite is definitely on that list. How do you feel about camping?”
“Are we talking glamping or camping?”
“Glamping?”
“You know, where you take your RV?”
“You realize you just asked a Guardian and former SEAL if I rough it in an RV?”
“I guess that’s kind of funny. I’m guessing that’s anoto the RV?”