Page 19 of Playing with My Heart

“Then it would definitely be hard for them to keep up with you,” Parker added with a laugh. His laughter was contagious, and I found myself chuckling along with him.

“Exactly! But you, man, you’re keeping pace like a champ.”

We reached a clearing, and the view unfolded before us—a tapestry of greenery spread beneath us, dotted with the vibrant colors of wildflowers and the distant shimmer of a lake. We took a moment, side by side, to drink it all in. The breeze carried the fresh scent of earth and water up to us, and I felt something swell within—a sense of contentment and peace.

“David would’ve been done halfway up,” Parker said after a while, his voice softening. “Not that I blame him. Medicine’s his thing, not hiking.”

“Everyone’s got their passions,” I replied, nudging him playfully with my elbow. “Mine just happen to align with yours right now.”

“Guess I’m lucky then,” he said, flashing me a smile that sent an unexpected jolt through my system.

We continued our hike, the conversation flowing as easily as the trail beneath our feet. Talk eventually turned to another passion we shared, sports. “Must be pretty cool getting to work with athletes from the Cubs,” Parker commented.

“I’m looking forward to it. They’re a great group of guys,” I said with a shrug, downplaying the pride I felt in my work. “Helping people get back on their feet, literally, that’s the real win for me.”

“Can’t argue with that,” Parker said, nodding in agreement.

Our conversation ebbed and flowed with the terrain, and I found myself savoring every word, every shared laugh. It wasn’t often I met someone who could match my energy, both physically and verbally. It was refreshing, thrilling even, and a part of me wondered what it would be like to have this kind of connection with someone all the time.

“Hey, check this out!” I called, veering off the path where a cluster of wild berries hung temptingly from a bush. “Nature’s snack bar.”

“Are those safe to eat?” Parker asked, a hint of skepticism in his tone.

“Sure, I used to eat these all the time as a kid,” I assured him, popping a few into my mouth. “Sweet with a little tang. Try some.”

He hesitated a moment longer before joining me, and I watched as his expression shifted from wary to pleasantly surprised. “Not bad, Brooks.”

“See? Adventure has its perks.” I grinned, feeling oddly victorious.

“We should probably head back soon,” Parker mentioned reluctantly as we resumed our hike. “Don’t want to overdo it on our first outing.”

“Agreed,” I said, though a part of me wished we could stretch the day into infinity. “Race you to the bottom?”

“Ha! You’re on,” he accepted, and suddenly we were both sprinting down the path, laughter trailing behind us like little kids.

We reached the base, breathless and grinning like fools. There was a camaraderie between us now, a bond forged through shared sweat and soil. The sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the ground, signaling the end of our adventure.

The glow of the sunset painted a soft backdrop over the Chicago skyline as Parker and I returned from our hiking excursion. The fast pace of the city welcomed us back to civilization, a stark contrast to the natural serenity we’d just left behind.

“Man, I’m all grimy,” Parker chuckled, swiping at his forehead. “Nothing like a good sweat, though.”

“Definitely. Hey, why don’t we hang out at my place? We can order some dinner, and catch a movie or something,” I suggested, hoping he’d agree. “That is, unless you need to get home to David.”

“Nah, he’s working another double. I’d love to hang out, but I’d kill for a shower first,” he admitted, a little sheepishly.

“Got you covered.” I drove us back to my condo and pulled into the parking garage. “Follow me,” I said as I shut off the engine. I led him into the lobby of my building, the modern decor giving way to an even sleeker elevator.

My place was on the eighth floor, newly remodeled with expansive windows that offered a picturesque view of the city. The open-concept living area boasted a minimalist aesthetic—cool grays and crisp whites offset by warm wooden accents. It was clean, uncluttered, and masculine.

“Nice digs, Travis,” Parker whistled appreciatively, taking in the sight.

“Thanks,” I replied, feeling a swell of pride. “Make yourself at home. I’ll grab you some clothes.”

I fetched a pair of gray sweatpants and a plain white t-shirt from my bedroom, laying them out for Parker. “Bathroom’s right there when you’re ready.” I pointed it out.

“Appreciate it,” he said, disappearing behind the door.

While he showered, I ordered Chinese food, opting for the usual favorites: kung pao chicken, beef and broccoli, two orders of fried rice, and an extra order of egg rolls. My stomach growled in anticipation.

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