Chapter 5
Carla and Lisa were seated at the kitchen table, bathed in the warm glow of sunlight filtering through the window. Their breakfast spread showcased golden brown toast, vibrant fresh fruit, and fragrant steaming cups of coffee. Nearby, Adrian stood, enjoying the final sips of his coffee, adding to the cheerful morning ambiance.
“So, what are the plans for today?” Lisa asked playfully, her lips curling around the bite of her buttery toast, eyes sparkling.
“Well, given your passion for hiking, I thought we could venture to Caminito del Rey,” Adrian replied, leaning casually against the counter.
“What’s that?” Carla inquired, raising an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued.
“It’s this breathtaking walkway that runs along the steep walls of a narrow gorge in El Chorro. It takes about two to three hours to walk the whole thing—just shy of five miles,” he explained, his voice cheerful and animated, each word filled with excitement as he painted a vivid picture of the adventure ahead.
“Adrian! Showers free!” Claire shouted from upstairs.
“Oh, that’s my cue to go and get ready!” Adrian said, shooting a friendly grin before disappearing up the stairs.
As soon as he was out of earshot, Lisa burst into laughter, her carefree joy filling the room.
“Five flipping miles?!” Carla whispered, leaning closer to Lisa, her eyes wide in mock horror. “Why did I say we went bloody hiking? This is a disaster!” she said, frustration lacing her voice.
Lisa’s laughter rang out like music, each peal making Carla grin despite herself. “Shut up!” She said playfully, giving Lisa a light whack on the arm, but the corners of her mouth couldn't help but lift.
Lisa stood up to place her plate in the dishwasher. Before she did, she leaned in closer to Carla, their faces inches apart, and whispered conspiratorially, “This is why lying is bad—now your little fibs have caught up with you,” she said with a teasing wink, her breath brushing softly against Carla's cheek, igniting a heat that went straight to her core.
———————-
The sun hung high in the sky, bathing the rugged landscape of Caminito del Rey in a warm golden glow. The breathtaking gorge, flanked by sheer cliffs and dotted with shrubs and trees, seemed to beckon the group forward. A faint sound of rushing water from the river below blended with the soft whispers of the wind, created an ambiance that felt both exhilarating and calming.
Carla and Lisa stepped out of the car, uncharacteristically giddy yet anxious, trailing slightly behind Claire and Adrian. The latter two were more enthusiastic, discussing the breathtaking views and snapping photos with their phones. Carla adjusted the hardhat on her head, glancing sideways at Lisa, who was adjusting her own.
“I look ridiculous in this,” Carla said, pulling at the chin strap, her eyes narrowing in mock horror.
“I think it’s cute,” Lisa replied, playfully nudging Carla with her elbow, the warmth of her smile melting away Carla’s earlier embarrassment. “Besides, it’ll keep you safe… just in case you trip over your own feet!”
“Oh ha-ha, very funny,” Carla retorted, her lips curling into a reluctant smile. Although she hadn’t expected to feel this playful today, it felt good to share a moment like this with Lisa, even while pretending to be in a relationship.
“Come on, you’ll love it! Look at the walkway; it’s amazing!” Lisa exclaimed, gesturing toward the narrow wooden boardwalk suspended precariously against the cliffside, offering incredible views of the gorge below. “Just think about how great the pictures will look!”
Carla swallowed hard, her heart racing at the thought of traversing that thin strip of wood hanging hundreds of feet above the ground. She felt an unsettling knot in her stomach, the waves of anxiety crashing against her with each passing moment. “You do realise I don’t like heights, right?” she whispered, the confession barely escaping her lips.
"But think of how brave you’ll feel after!" Lisa encouraged, her eyes shining with excitement. “We have to at least try it for the experience. Plus, it's meant to be one of the most beautiful hikes in Spain!”
“‘Beautiful’ doesn’t equal safe,” Carla murmured. She glanced over at Claire and Adrian, who were engrossed in planning their route, leaving her and Lisa a moment of respite from their playful facade.
“Please, Carla,” Lisa urged, placing a hand gently on Carla’s arm, “I’ll be right by your side the entire time. Besides, we can always turn back if you want to.”
Looking into Lisa's earnest gaze sent a rush of warmth through Carla. Despite her fear and reluctance, the thought of being alongside Lisa—sharing this experience—fueled a flicker of courage in her heart. Maybe it wasn't about the hike; maybe it was about this moment, their connection, and the unspoken feelings that danced between them.
“Alright, fine,” Carla finally conceded, trying to keep her voice steady. “But you’re leading the way, and if I get freaked out, we’re turning back immediately.”
“Deal!” Lisa grinned, the thrill of adventure lighting up her features. “We’ll take it slow, okay? You can hold my hand.”
A warmth unfurled in Carla’s chest at the offer, and she caught Lisa's gaze, grounding and steadfast amidst the waves of uncertainty. For a fleeting moment, it felt as though this chaotic dance of pretence and unspoken emotion had pivoted into something more genuine.
As they began to walk, the path opened before them, bordered by wildflowers that thrived in the crevices of the rocky cliffs. The radiant scent of pine mixed with the earthiness of the river below filled the air. Each step offered more magnificent views—towering cliffs mirrored the soft ripples of the turquoise river, each breathtaking scene a reminder of nature's grandeur. The landscape felt alive, vibrant, and staggeringly beautiful.
Yet, it was hard to ignore the tension twisting inside her. She allowed herself to take Lisa’s hand, tentative at first, but soon gripping tightly, feeling reassured by her presence. The world began to narrow to just them amidst the beauty of nature.
Claire and Adrian had already moved ahead, chatting excitedly about what they might encounter along the trail. They paused to take pictures, Carla’s earlier concerns fading from her thoughts, replaced by the enchantment of their surroundings. Breathing in the fresh air, Carla was momentarily swept away, fueled by the allure of the moment.
When Lisa caught the glance Carla shot her, a knowing smile crept onto her face. “See? Not so bad, is it?”
“No, but I’m still not a fan of the heights.” Carla whispered back, her heart racing again, this time not due to fear. It was Lisa who made everything feel exhilarating and new.
And as they continued down the narrow boardwalk, the wind teasing their hair, Carla felt herself relax a little more with each step, her worries slowly subsiding under the weight of their camaraderie. Maybe this adventure would uncover more than just beautiful views—it might reveal the truth they both secretly wished for.
As they approached a particularly spectacular viewpoint, the sheer cliffs rose majestically above them, casting shadows over the colourful landscape. The turquoise river glimmered below, winding its way through the gorge, creating mesmerising patterns that seemed to dance before their eyes.
“Wow, this is beautiful!” Carla exclaimed, momentarily forgetting her fear of heights. She leaned over the railing, trying to capture every detail in her mind. “I can’t believe we’re actually here.”
Lisa stood beside her, arms crossed, a playful smirk on her face. “Told you it was going to be amazing!” She took her phone out and waved it in the air enthusiastically. “Let’s take a selfie!”
Carla laughed as she positioned herself next to Lisa, their shoulders touching slightly. “All right, but no funny faces!” she warned, trying to sound serious but failing to conceal her smile.
“Who, me?” Lisa feigned innocence while sticking her tongue out dramatically. She snapped a photo, and they both burst into laughter. Checking the picture, Lisa exclaimed, “Ooh, look at you!”
“Oh, stop it,” Carla said with a playful roll of her eyes, though her cheeks turned a shade pinker. “Let me see that again!”
Lisa turned the screen toward Carla, who couldn’t help but appreciate the brightness in Lisa’s eyes. “You need to send one to Betsy!” Carla suggested, already thinking about how thrilled the teen would be to see her mum adventuring.
“Good idea! We can send her a few.” Lisa’s eyes sparkled with excitement. She pulled Carla in close again, arm around her shoulder, and posed for another selfie. “Cheese!”
“Seriously? Is that the best you can do?” Carla teased, dramatically tilting her head, giving her best pout for the camera.
With another snap, Lisa laughed, playfully nudging Carla. “Okay, okay! Clearly you’re the expert here.” She puckered her lips in an exaggerated kissy face, and Carla couldn’t help but giggle.
“Perfect!” Carla said, her heart fluttering a little more with each moment they shared.
“I think Betsy’s going to love these. She always says I’m too serious. I’ll show her how fun I can be!”
Lisa posed once again for the camera encouraging Carla to do the same. “Oh, come on! Just one more?” Lisa insisted, leaning toward Carla, making every fiber of Carla’s being tingle.
“Fine!” Carla sighed dramatically but couldn’t suppress her smile. Leaning her head against Lisa's briefly before pulling back, she felt a rush of warmth flood her chest.
Just then, as they posed, the wind picked up, tousling their hair and causing Lisa to burst into laughter. “Perfect!”
After several more pictures capturing the breathtaking views and their spontaneous joy, Lisa scrolled through the images, sending a few favorites to Betsy. “This one is great! Oh, look at us!” she exclaimed, scrolling back through the photos with Carla.
“Which one?” Carla leaned in closer, feeling a rush of warmth as Lisa accidentally brushed her arm against hers.
“This one!” Lisa showed her a picture where they both had beautiful, genuine smiles, framed by the stunning natural backdrop. “I’m sending this for sure!”
“Do it! Betsy will love seeing you like this,” Carla encouraged, feeling a sense of connection deepen between them.
As they continued to find more flawless spots along the boardwalk, the towering cliffs continued to push them closer together, the energy between them mounting with every shared look, every laugh, and every playful teasing word. Carla felt lighter, the fear of heights eclipsed by the exhilarating dance of flirtation and the beauty that surrounded them.
Every moment they shared, every glance, every soft touch of their arms, was marked with the thrill of realising how beautiful things could be when shared with someone who understood them so completely.
The hiking trail led them to a designated photo point, where the view of the iconic bridge sprawled majestically across the canyon, connecting the two rocky cliffs like an artist’s masterpiece. A staff member stood ready, smiling warmly as they approached, sensing the excitement in the air.
“Would you like me to take a picture for you?” the staff member asked, as Claire and Adrian joined the group.
“Yes, please!” Carla replied, her heart racing at the thought of capturing this moment with Lisa. The memories they were creating felt electric, and she didn't want to miss a second of it.
Lisa handed her phone to the staff member as Carla did the same, ensuring they'd each have a copy of the perfect shot. As they stepped together in front of the breathtaking view, Carla wrapped her arm around Lisa’s waist, pulling her close. They beamed at the camera, their eyes sparkling with joy.
The staff member took the picture, capturing their happiness amidst nature's beauty. “Okay, one more!” He said cheerfully.
Just as they prepared, Claire chimed in with a playful suggestion. “You two should kiss! That would make a beautiful photo with the bridge in the background.”
Suddenly, the air felt electric, the lightness dissipating into an awkward tension. Carla’s heart raced, the chatter from nearby hikers fading into a distant hum. She felt a flush creeping to her cheeks as she glanced at Lisa. The moment felt heavy, their previously flirtatious banter morphing into a weighty challenge.
Carla leaned closer to Lisa, lowering her voice. “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”
Lisa, however, wore a small smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief and understanding. “I think it’s going to be more uncomfortable if you don’t kiss me—such a spotlight and all.” Her voice was quiet but firm, a hint of excitement lacing her words.
Carla swallowed hard, feeling the heat of indecision rise within her. The world had shrunk to just the two of them, the bustling laughter of Claire and Adrian fading into the background. They exchanged a long glance, and for a moment, words felt unnecessary. The tension between them was palpable.
“Okay…” Carla whispered, her heart pounding in her chest. They both knew it was a moment they had tiptoed around, pretending, yet secretly wishing for something more. With a shared sense of daring, they leaned in.
As their lips touched, the world around them seemed to pause. It was soft, tentative at first—the sweetness of that first connection igniting something that neither of them had anticipated. The connection was electric, sending warmth cascading through their bodies, a thrill that wrapped around them.
Without thinking, they deepened the kiss, drawn in by an undeniable gravity, emotions flowing like an unstoppable current. It was as if the universe had conspired to bring them to this very moment; every thought, every worry slipped away, leaving only the intoxicating softness of each other's lips.
Their surroundings blurred—no rushing hikers, no vibrant nature—just the two of them bathed in this newfound intimacy. The kiss spoke volumes, a conversation woven through unspoken words. Time stood still, and the moment stretched infinitely, echoing the uncharted territory they had both tiptoed around.
Finally, they pulled away, both slightly breathless, hearts pounding in harmony. Carla and Lisa gazed at each other, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within them—surprise, excitement, and a hint of fear. But the moment felt suspended, like they were caught in a bubble of their own creation.
Just then, Claire and Adrian’s voices rang out, breaking the spell. “Okay, now it’s our turn for a photo!” Claire announced, grinning as she stepped forward, her excitement palpable.
The sudden shift pulled Carla and Lisa back to reality, a warm flush creeping across their cheeks. They exchanged startled glances, both amazed by what had just happened, yet unable to meet each other’s eyes as the world around them resumed.
Carla took a step back, her heart still racing. The rush of the kiss lingered on her lips, but now the air felt heavy with uncertainty. She quickly looked away, pretending to find something interesting in the distance as if desperate to cool off the warmth of the moment.
Lisa mirrored Carla’s movements, focusing her gaze on the wooden slats at her feet. The tension between them shifted, the electric connection hanging unspoken in the air, both still reverberating from that fleeting kiss.
As Claire and Adrian posed in front of the breathtaking view of the bridge, laughter erupted once more, but it was background noise to Carla and Lisa’s swirling thoughts. Both of them were caught in a whirlwind of disbelief and wonder, wondering what this kiss had changed between them, yet struggling to embrace it.
With quickened steps, Lisa hurried down the winding path, the sun filtering through the leaves above, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Her mind raced, a whirlwind of thoughts, dominated by the memory of Carla's kiss. Each replay tangled her heartstrings tighter, drawing her into a state of confusion. Was it merely a playful experiment for Carla, a fleeting moment to be brushed aside? Or could there be an unspoken connection, a thread tying their hearts together? The uncertainty churned inside her, making every step feel heavier as her heart thudded in her chest.
As Lisa forged ahead, she glanced back, catching a glimpse of Carla lagging behind. A mixture of anticipation and anxiety bubbled within her. The afternoon sun bore down fiercely, the heat rising off the ground like a tangible presence.
Carla, burdened by her own thoughts and a sudden simmering discomfort in her stomach, navigated the path with increasingly cumbersome feet.
By the time they reached the steep staircase leading toward the end of their hike, Carla felt as though she was scaling a mountain. Each step sent tremors of fatigue pulsing through her legs, and the warmth of the day enveloped her in a haze that made it difficult to breathe. The thrill of the day was dulled by a gnawing hunger and a lack of water—sensations she initially brushed aside.
“Come on, just a little bit further,” she muttered to herself, desperation fueling her determination to push on. But as they crested the final hill, her stomach twisted painfully, a sharp reminder of her neglected needs.
Carla finally approached a bench nestled under the welcoming shade of a sprawling tree. With a sigh of relief, she sank onto it, fatigue washing over her like a tide. Lisa, still lost in her own world and clearly ignoring her, joined Claire and Adrian a distance ahead, leaving Carla to battle her escalating discomfort alone.
Embarrassment flushed through Carla’s cheeks, the warmth creeping up her neck. There was no way she could admit her physical limits—not when everyone else seemed to be faring so well. With a deep breath, she stood up again, determined to rejoin the group, even as her body protested with increasing intensity.
As they resumed walking, Carla's gaze flickered toward the distant food stands, her heart yearning for something cold and refreshing to revive her energy. Nevertheless, she trudged on, though each step felt increasingly grueling; her limbs grew heavy, her fatigue mounting.
Suddenly, her vision blurred, dizziness crashing over her like a wave. Fighting the feeling, she stumbled toward a large boulder that sat beside the path, seeking refuge. The cool rock offered a moment of reprieve, and she dropped her head between her legs, desperate for the spinning world to right itself. Panic prickled the edges of her mind. What if she fainted? What if no one noticed her absence?
Amidst her turmoil, she heard voices in the distance, the group now several feet away. The words were fuzzy, unintelligible, with the world narrowing down to her internal struggle. As she fought the dizziness, she tried to muster the strength to rise, but her stomach contorted with nausea, holding her hostage.
Lisa, meanwhile, had moved forward with purposeful strides, reaching the bustling food stand area filled with laughter, chatter, and enticing aromas. Yet, as she surveyed the scene, a flicker of concern lodged itself in her gut. “Wait, where’s Carla?” she exclaimed, whirling around in an immediate wave of anxiety.
“She was right behind us,” Adrian replied casually, his tone oblivious to the growing tension in Lisa's chest.
But that innocent response sent a jolt of panic racing through Lisa. “Well she’s not here now, is she?” she asked, a note of frustration and urgency creeping into her voice. Her heart raced, an unbearable weight settling in the pit of her stomach. Carla always kept pace. There was no reason for her to lag behind.
“Don’t worry, I’m sure she’ll catch up,” Claire said, offering a reassuring smile, but it did little to ease Lisa’s unease.
“I’m gonna head back, see if I can find her,” Lisa declared, her determination masking the apprehension swirling inside her.
With purpose, she retraced her steps down the path, her heart pounding louder with every footfall. “Carla!” she called, each utterance echoing in the stillness around her, anxiety tightening its grip. The path felt longer and emptier without Carla's reassuring presence beside her. “Carla, where are you?”
The trees loomed overhead, their leaves whispering secrets as Lisa’s anxiety heightened with every beat of her heart. Fearful images of Carla, falling or getting lost in the thick foliage, flooded her thoughts, igniting her worst fears. She quickened her pace, her voice rising in pitch, “Carla!”
As Lisa rounded a bend, her eyes swept anxiously over the terrain, heart racing until, at last, she caught sight of her. Carla was hunched against a boulder, resting her head down, her skin ghostly pale against the vibrant natural backdrop. Panic surged through Lisa, propelling her forward in a desperate rush. “Carla!” she gasped, her voice thick with concern. “What happened?”
Approaching, she noted the sheen of sweat on Carla’s forehead and the way she seemed to collapse within herself—palpably fragile, vulnerable. "Sweetheart," Lisa breathed, sinking to her knees beside her. "You don’t look well!"
Lisa gently rubbed Carla's back in soothing circles, trying to ease the tightness that had gripped her. “I’m right here, Carla. Just take a deep breath,” she whispered, her voice a balm against the rising tide of anxiety swelling in her chest. Carla's pale face was a haunting sight; the worry etched in her features twisted Lisa's heart painfully.
Carla leaned into Lisa's hand, the frailness of her frame evident as she spoke in a near whisper, “I feel so faint. I think I need something to eat and drink.” The vulnerability in her eyes, glistening with unshed tears, made Lisa’s stomach churn.
“Okay, just hold on.” Lisa's mind raced as she reached for her phone, desperately hoping to contact Claire for help. But panic surged when she realised the signal was dead. Her heart pounded in frustration, but she forced the feelings down deep and focused on Carla. “I’ll be right back. Just stay here, okay?”
The moment Carla nodded weakly, Lisa felt a wave of determination wash over her. She turned and sprinted toward the food stand, her feet pounding against the ground as though trying to outrun the anxiety.
Scanning the menu with frantic eyes, she tried to seek out the best option. “Just a chicken sandwich and water, please,” she said to the vendor. The vendor moved at a snail's pace, and every second felt like an eternity. Lisa barely tasted the relief as she grabbed the sandwich and a chilled bottle of water, exchanging brief, hurried words with the vendor before racing back.
Seeing Carla still sitting against the boulder, her frail figure hunched over, sent a fresh jolt of panic coursing through Lisa. Kneeling beside her, she unscrewed the water bottle, her hands trembling slightly as she offered it first, feeling the urgency of the moment. “Here, drink this,” she encouraged, gently pressing the bottle to Carla's lips, her heart pounding in unison with each shallow breath Carla took.
“Thank you,” Carla murmured, her voice barely above a whisper but steadier now as she sipped slowly. The tension in Lisa's shoulders began to ease as she watched Carla take a few hesitant bites of the sandwich, color slowly returning to her cheeks. With every bite, relief washed over Lisa, mixing with a sense of gratitude that made her want to cry.
“See? You’re going to be okay,” Lisa said, her own smile breaking through the worry that had shadowed her. She placed her hand firmly on Carla's shoulder, feeling a warmth radiate between them, a silent promise of support and solidarity that didn’t need words.
As time passed, Carla inhaled deeply, her strength returning gradually. “I think I can stand now,” she finally managed, determination lighting up her eyes.
“Good,” Lisa replied, slipping her arm around Carla’s waist, the contact grounding. “Just hold on to me.”
They began walking back to the car, each step filled with the realisation of relief that coursed between them. The warmth of the late afternoon sun hugged them like a comforting blanket as Lisa felt Carla lean into her, their steps falling into a synchronised rhythm that soothed the remnants of fear lingering in the air. “You scared me,” Lisa admitted, glancing sideways, her voice thick with emotion. “Don’t ever do that again.”
“I won’t,” Carla promised, a faint smile blossoming on her face that made Lisa’s heart swell.
——————-
When they returned to the house, Carla barely had the strength to climb the stairs. She stumbled into the bedroom and collapsed onto the bed, curling herself into a tight ball, her body still trembling from the day’s exertion.
Lisa felt a pang of worry in her chest, her heart aching to see Carla so fragile, and she quickly followed her into the room.
As she stepped inside, she saw Carla turned away, her shoulders shuddering ever so slightly, and Lisa's heart sank deeper.
“You okay?” Lisa asked gently, her voice a soft caress in the heavy air.
“Mmm,” Carla murmured, thick with the remnants of fear and exhaustion, her earlier lightness replaced by a heavy gloom.
Without waiting for an invitation, Lisa climbed onto the bed and carefully wrapped her arms around Carla, brushing her fingers through her hair in a soothing rhythm. The silence enveloped them, their hearts beating in unison, and Lisa could feel the weight of Carla's vulnerability pressing against her, each breath a silent plea for comfort.
In that moment, a profound bond blossomed between them; Carla knew, deep down, that no matter how broken or scared she felt, Lisa would always be her steadfast rock, unfaltering and understanding without the need for words.
Time felt like it stood still as they lay tangled together, lost in the warmth of each other’s presence. They remained wrapped in their cocoon of solace until a gentle knock on the door sliced through the stillness.
“I brought you both a cup of tea,” Claire whispered, the warmth of her voice washing over the room as she stepped inside.
Her heart swelled at the sight that greeted her: Lisa was still lovingly stroking Carla’s hair, and Carla had shifted, seeking the closeness of Lisa, her back pressed tenderly against Lisa’s side, a silent sanctuary in the storm swirling within her.
“Thanks, Claire,” Lisa called softly without moving, still cradling Carla against her.
“I’ll leave you to it,” Claire said softly, her voice barely breaking the tranquility as she retreated, gently closing the door behind her, leaving them in their intimate world.
Lisa leaned closer, sensing the fragility of the moment. She moved her hand to rest on Carla's waist, a gesture of protection. “Shall I leave you to have a little nap?” she asked, shifting subtly as if to rise.
But before she could make any moves, Carla’s hand shot down to her waist to grasp Lisa's, a desperate pull filled with longing. “Stay… please,” she whispered with a vulnerability that tugged at Lisa’s heartstrings.
Without hesitating, Lisa slid down the bed, enveloping Carla in her warmth, the softness of her embrace was a balm to Carla’s shaken spirit. She wrapped her arm tightly around Carla’s waist, her thumb gently massaging over her clothes, just above her bellybutton, bringing a comforting rhythm that promised safety. Lisa leaned in, pressing a soft kiss into Carla's hair, feeling the fragile threads of tension begin to unwind as Carla slowly succumbed to the embrace of sleep.