The blonde smirks.

Tina – It’s nice to know that I’m still next to you.

Bette – It’s about time you claim it.

Tina – I’m not in a hurry …

She smiles.

—————————–

Cave mountains, afternoon: The women continue their hike, Bette walking ahead. Tina rushes to her and grabs her hand.

Bette – What?

Tina – We are approaching girlfriend abuse territory.

Bette – No, we are not!

Tina – Yes, we are! We established many weeks ago: walking at a hundred miles per hour, jogging without a break … all girlfriend abuse.

Bette chuckles and slows down.

Bette – I’m not doing anything!

Tina – I have to hold your hand or you will disappear on the horizon!

Bette – You wanted to hold hands while jogging once! Who does that?!

Tina – Well … that was an excuse because I missed you. But now I’m tired. High altitude, remember?

Bette – Do you want a break?

Tina – No, I just want you to walk at my pace.

Bette – OK. (pause) May I have my hand back?

Tina – No! What’s the problem with holding hands with me?

Bette – It’s unusual, isn’t it?

The blonde looks around.

Tina – Is there anyone judging us? Maybe those mountain goats?

Bette rolls her eyes.

Bette – OK, OK … let’s go! I have another cave to show you.

They walk hand in hand. The blonde pulls her hand.

Tina – Slow down …

They smile at each other.

————————————-

Cave Mountains, late afternoon: The two women arrive at an open area near a creek.

Bette – We can stop for the day and sleep here tonight. There is a creek fifty yards that way where we can easily find fish and water.

Tina – Awesome! Will you teach me how to fish?

Bette – OK. Which of the two caves do you prefer?

Tina – Other than yours?

She smiles.

Bette – Off limits!

The blonde chuckles.

Tina – The first one seems the easiest to reach. And has everything we need.

Bette – Good!

———————————————–

Mountain Creek, late afternoon: Bette is teaching Tina how to fish. She creates a fishing rod from a tree branch and attaches a long fishing line with a hook. She demonstrates how to do overhead casting and asks the blonde to repeat the movements. Tina tries for the first time.