Chapter 4Morning dew mists my face as I increase my pace and leap over puddles. With a splatter, I disturb a large white bird, sending it soaring to a boulder ahead. On the reservoir water, a sord of mallards glide through cold water with a deep grunt to crude for the graceful creatures. Perhaps it's a mating call or just a morning ritual. Behind me, slapping feet approach swiftly. I glance back, and it's him smiling and waving. Finally, Chase catches up, slowing his pace to my stride. My freedom dance subsides.
“Hey,” he says winded. “I was hoping to see you. I didn't expect to find you on the reservoir. I thought you ran the loop mostly.”
“No, I run both.” His panting tells me he must have sprinted to catch up. In response, I slow my pace, giving him time to catch his breath, and just
