Page 35 of The Friendship Pact

Lifting her feet one at a time, she walked several steps, getting the feel for the shoes.

“They feel okay?”

“I think so.”

“Just walk normal. I’ll help you over the snowbank.”

When they reached the trailhead, Kate noticed all the snowshoe prints. Nick held onto her elbow as she lifted each foot over the small ridge.

She did well and stayed on her feet, an accomplishment. Nick explained the snow was more packed here on the main trail and made for an easier walk.

“Let’s veer off the trail a bit. There’s a picnic table about a half mile from here.”

Hoping for a snack, she asked, “Did you happen to bring food?”

“I did. And water.”

“Good. I haven’t eaten anything yet. I do intermittent fasting, and I’m getting hungry.”

“All right. You’ll have to explain that to me.” Nick pointed ahead. They’d been walking in deeper snow, but a few people had made a trail. “Are you having fun?”

“I’m having a blast. I’ll feel my hamstrings tomorrow.”

“Good. And yes, you will feel the muscles you probably haven’t used in a while. I know I will. I haven’t been on snowshoes since last year.”

They approached the empty pavilion, and Nick pulled off his backpack. “I have wraps Mom made. She said you watch carbs and thought the fajita wrap would be a good choice.”

“Thanks. That was sweet of your mom to remember. Yes, I watch carbs mainly because of the sugar.”

“That’s what she said.”

Kate loved that Ruth remembered her eating habits, and she’d shared a few things with her, tips that might help with Jim’s recovery.

They removed their gloves to eat, and the sun warmed them pleasantly.

Famished after their workout, Kate bit into the wrap and groaned. Delicious. The strips of beef, mushrooms, onions, and green pepper in a tangy sauce were a perfect blend. Nick stared at her, then shrugged and bit into his wrap. After he finished chewing, he said, “You know how to enjoy food.”

Kate wiped her mouth. “I appreciate the tastes. I used to enjoy food too much. The wrong types of food.”

“Yet you’re a baker.”

“Ironic, isn’t it?”

He lifted one shoulder. “I admire you being able to balance your profession with your ability to know when it’s too much.”

It was Kate’s turn to stare at Nick. “Thank you. It’s difficult. I’d like to include a line of healthy-alternative desserts at my bistro. Especially for those dealing with heart issues and diabetes. I’ve developed new recipes, and your mom wants me to make them for her to sample.”

“I’m always up for samples. I love trying new treats.”

“You already did. The brownies I brought to Chloe’s were keto friendly.”

“I don’t know what that means, but I look forward to finding out. I remember everyone singing your praises, including me.”

The trail was getting harder to see in the diminishing light.

“You up for a race?” Nick asked Kate.

“You’re asking a highly competitive person. Of course.”