The chapter opens with text-message banter between teenage Cam and Dusty arranging a Saturday morning hike, including Cam’s request that Dusty park down the street to avoid her parents’ notice. Cam explains that her parents would not approve of Dusty or their friendship, and Dusty gently pushes back on the secrecy.

On the trail, Cam struggled with the climb while Dusty moved easily. They discussed why Dusty hikes so often, with Dusty urging Cam to “enjoy the journey.” Cam, unused to that outlook, admitted no one had told her that before. Along the way, Cam reflects on how Dusty drives her around, the mix CD she made for his Bronco, and how their friendship has deepened, with Cam drawn to him beyond friendship.

After passing through a narrow rock gap, Dusty led Cam to a dramatic overlook featuring a rock formation like a couch and a sweeping view of mountains, forest, and a river. They shared snacks Dusty had packed and, emboldened by their closeness, Cam asked why Dusty had not kissed her yet. Dusty replied he was waiting for the right moment, and both agreed this was it.

Dusty kissed Cam for the first time, and they continued kissing as they left the overlook, hiked down, and later in Dusty’s truck parked near Cam’s house. The intimacy intensified as they sat together on the bench seat, reveling in the newness of their connection.

The moment was abruptly interrupted by Cam’s mother banging on the passenger window and shouting for Cam to get out. Startled, Cam begged Dusty to drive away, not wanting to face her mother. Dusty, concerned it would escalate things, refused and urged her to face the situation, promising to come get her later.

Torn and teary, Cam agreed. Dusty kissed her again in full view of her mother and promised, “I’ll get you out of here someday,” before their separation, leaving the encounter charged with hope and the weight of Cam’s restrictive home life.