The trip began quietly. They arrived on Friday afternoon, unpacked, and walked into town for dinner. The next morning was bright and cool. Claire unfolded a trail map across the breakfast table. “What about this one?” she asked. David looked at the route. “That is the longest walk on the map.” Claire smiled. “Exactly. We have all day.” David packed water, snacks, and his camera.
The trail was busy near town but became quieter as it climbed. They passed families, dog walkers, and two cyclists pushing their bikes uphill. From an open section, Claire spotted several paragliders above the coast. “There they are again,” she said. David raised the camera. “Hold on. The colors look amazing against the clouds.” He took several pictures before they continued.
By mid-afternoon, the wind had become stronger. At one point, Claire stopped. “Did you hear that?” A dull sound had come from somewhere beyond the ridge. David listened. “Maybe rockfall.” Claire looked toward the cliffs. “Or something from the beach.” Neither could see anything unusual. “Come on,” David said. “The viewpoint is close.” They kept walking. Minutes later, they reached the place where David took the photographs they would later study again.