Dad points toward the hill while I rub sleep from my eyes. The rising sun paints everything golden.
“People say the view is unforgettable.” He winks.
I grin conspiratorially, an agreement made.
Side by side, we make our way to the base of the hill and I stare upwards, suddenly intimidated.
He grasps my shoulders, guides me in front of him.
“I’m a big kid,” I insist, burying my fear.
“That’s why you’re leading.”
As the climb gets steeper, I slip on loose rocks and almost topple, but Dad steadies me.
We continue up the hillside, racing the sun to the peak.
It’s a tie.
I don’t remember the view from the top, but I’ll never forget Dad’s cerulean eyes twinkling, his strong arms holding me to him.
