Harper trudged the last few steps to the small wooden cabin, her boots sinking deep into the fresh snow. The hike had been longer and colder than she expected. Her legs ached, her cheeks burned from the wind, and her backpack felt like it weighed a ton. She pushed open the heavy door and stepped inside, grateful for the shelter.
Quinn was already there, kneeling by the wood stove and checking supplies. The rugged guide looked exactly like her picture — tall, athletic, with short dark hair and a few tattoos peeking out from under her thermal shirt. Her body was strong and toned from years of leading hikes in the mountains. She stood up when Harper walked in, brushing dust from her hands.
“You made it,” Quinn said with a easy smile. “I was starting to worry. Storm’s coming in faster than t
