the other side

after some convincing,

we take

our shoes off to cross the shallow

stream

to get

to the other side

where

the path

runs

deeper into the woods.

the water

is colder

than expected.

she takes my hand as we

slip

and catch

each other, falling

onto the rocks and mud.

it's freezing

as the water rushes

over us.

we're soaked.

i'm laughing,

but she isn't.

it seemed like such a good

plan.