Serial: An October Hike #3

I leave the conversation more confident and relaxed than before. And with a couple of tips for better hiking boots. I drown out the fear of discovery, and take in the scenery - the beauty of the foothills we will be moving into shortly.
The group leader calls us together for practical information. He's cute. Early thirties maybe, his hair is half-long, but falls just right, and he's got that sexy stubble look going for him. I'm not gonna act on it, of course, but a girl can dream... Did he just smile at me? No, that was just a polite smile. Right?
The others spring into action - I guess I zoned out during the presentation. With the speech done, the group leader turns to me.
"It's great to see a new face," he says in an engaging voice and that smile. That damn smile.

Alea - Spooktober Hiker by Doodles Most Foul