Chapter 5: The Hiking Disaster
The sun hung high in the sky, casting warm rays across the forest trail as Ava trudged behind a small group of her matchmaking clients. A mix of baking enthusiasts, yoga instructors, and one very reluctant accountant strolled ahead, their chatter filling the crisp morning air. The plan had seemed simple enough: a guided group hike to foster connections in a natural, relaxed setting.
But as Ava adjusted the straps of her too-heavy backpack and swatted at a buzzing mosquito, she was beginning to regret her life choices.
"This is good," she muttered under her breath, glaring at a tree root that nearly tripped her. "Fresh air. Nature. Terrible Wi-Fi."
"Talking to yourself already? That’s not a good sign."
Ava groaned as Ryan’s voice floated over her shoulder. She didn’t need to turn around to know he was grinning. She had half a mind to shove him off the trail, but he was technically here to "supervise," a role Mei had insisted on after hearing about Ava’s disastrous attempt at algorithmic matchmaking.
"Why are you here, again?" Ava asked, not bothering to hide her irritation.
"Mei thought you could use some help," Ryan said, effortlessly keeping pace with her despite his far-too-polished hiking boots. "And I couldn’t resist the chance to see you struggle."
"How noble," Ava said dryly, wiping sweat from her brow. "Shouldn’t you be in an office somewhere, ruining someone’s prenup?"
Ryan smirked. "I thought I’d take a break. Besides, this is way more entertaining."
Ahead of them, the group had stopped at a scenic overlook. Ava quickened her pace, eager to focus on her clients instead of Ryan’s relentless teasing.
"Beautiful, isn’t it?" she said, gesturing to the rolling hills and lush greenery stretching out below. The group murmured in agreement, some snapping photos while others simply took in the view.