Chapter 48 The Long Hike

• On the Sunday morning, they awoke to the gentle sounds of the forest coming to life. Birds chirped melodiously, and a light breeze rustled the leaves, creating a peaceful symphony that gently nudged them from their slumber. The sky was a brilliant blue, with a few wispy clouds drifting lazily overhead, promising another beautiful day in the Adirondacks.
• Alex was the first to emerge from his tent, stretching and taking a deep breath of the crisp morning air. He began to prepare a pot of coffee on the portable stove, the rich aroma soon filling the campsite. One by one, the others joined him around the fire pit, rubbing sleep from their eyes and greeting each other with sleepy smiles.
• "Morning," Haiden said, yawning as he stretched. "Smells good, Alex."