When she said nothing else, he stood and held a hand down.

“Would you like to see a magical place before we go?” he asked.

They locked eyes, and then she took his hand. “Yes, I’d like that. I think I could use a little magic today.”

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fourteen

Liam had promised her magic, and he made good on it. Quinn followed him carefully as he led her up the Pipiwai Trail, impressed by how he held back wayward branches or took her hand to help her over the difficult spots.

She wasn’t much of a hiker, and the sign that stated it was nearly two miles up and two miles down worried her. But soon she was glad she’d put the anxiety aside and decided to live in the moment.

The jungle was in itself a wonderfully beautiful place, the many lush shades of green and scattered exotic flowers a beautiful backdrop to some of the prettiest scenery Quinn had ever seen. She especially enjoyed the tiny bridges here and there with the babbling creeks underneath. The sounds of the wind, water, birds, and unseen insects made an enchanting orchestra as they climbed past rocks and some smaller falls.

On the way up they passed a famous old banyan tree, and it was remarkable to see, but the peace she felt as they entered the bamboo forest was indescribable. They stood there for a time, taking in the nature around them. Quinn appreciated that Liam didn’t try to talk, picking up on her need to be quiet and contemplative. Soon she realized there was another reason for his quietness. His face lit up with a victorious smile when the wind ran through the bamboo trees, creating a soft and melodious song as the bamboo stalks swayed gently up against each other.

Quinn stood so still to listen more intently that a dragonfly flew around her and settled on her shoulder for a few seconds before lifting off again.

The bamboo forest was definitely a place of wonder. Almost religiously so. She was filled with gratitude to Liam for bringing her there. He might think it silly if she spoke what she was feeling, but he had no idea how much her soul had needed that moment of peace.

Her mood lifted, and they continued up the trail, laughing as she tripped on the wooden planks placed strategically in the wetter areas of the path.

“If I can get you out on a board, we’ll strengthen your sense of balance on the water,” he teased, just as his voice was drowned out by the enormity of the last waterfall they approached.

She was feeling overheated and wiped the sweat from her brow. But she trudged on. She knew they were getting close to the main falls when the bamboo began to thin and the trees started coming back.