Chapter 3 Whistler Bound

The crisp mountain air filled Christina's lungs as she stepped off the train in Whistler, British Columbia. She'd booked a week-long stay at a cozy cabin on the outskirts of town, hoping the solitude would help her clear her head. The past few weeks had been a blur of tears and takeout, but she was determined to leave the heartache behind. As she settled into the cabin, Christina felt a sense of peace wash over her. The snow-capped peaks towered above, their rugged beauty a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there was always hope. She spent the afternoon unpacking, making a fire, and watching the snowflakes dance outside the window.

The next morning, Christina laced up her hiking boots and set out on the trails, the crunch of snow beneath her feet the only sound she needed. She hiked for hours, the fresh air and exercise working their magic on her bruised heart. As she walked, she felt the weight of Andrew's betrayal slowly lifting, like the mist burning off the mountainside. As she paused to take in the view, Christina noticed a figure in the distance, hiking towards her, Her heart skipped a beat as their eyes met, and for a moment, time stood still. He was tall, with piercing blue eyes and a strong jawline, his dark hair flecked with snow.

"Beautiful day, isn't it?" he said, his voice low and smooth, as they drew closer.

Christina smiled, feeling a spark of attraction she hadn't experienced in months. "Stunning," she replied, her eyes locking onto his.

The stranger smiled, his eyes cr crling at the corners. "I'm Liam, by the way."

"Christina," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

As they chatted, Christina felt a connection she couldn't explain, like they'd known each other for years. They hiked together for a while, sharing stories and laughter, before parting ways at a fork in the trail.

"Want to grab coffee with me tomorrow?" Liam asked, his eyes sparkling with interest.

Christina hesitated for a moment, her heart still raw from Andrew's betrayal. But something about Liam felt different, like a breath of fresh air on a long-stuck door.

"I'd love to," she said, smiling. As she watched Liam disappear into the trees, Christina felt a sense of excitement she hadn't felt in years. Maybe, just maybe, this trip would be the start of something new. The next morning, Christina found herself wandering the quaint streets of Whistler, searching for the coffee shop Liam had suggested.

The sun was shining, casting a warm glow over the village, and she felt a sense of excitement she hadn't experienced in months. Maybe it was the fresh mountain air, or maybe it was the prospect of meeting Liam, but Christina couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. As she pushed open the door, she spotted Liam sitting at a table by the window, his eyes fixed on his phone. He looked up, caught her gaze, and smiled, and Christina's heart skipped a beat. She felt a flutter in her chest, a sensation she'd thought was long gone.

"Hey," he said, standing up as she approached. "You found it."

Christina smiled, feeling a little shy. "Yeah, I did. Thanks for suggesting it."

They ordered their coffee and sat down, the conversation flowing easily as they chatted about everything from their jobs to their favorite books. Christina was surprised by how much they had in common, and how comfortable she felt around him.

As they sipped their coffee, Liam's eyes locked onto hers. "So, what brings you to Whistler? Vacation or escaping something?"

Christina hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. But there was something about Liam's kind eyes that put her at ease. "I'm escaping," she admitted. "A breakup. I needed to get out of the city, clear my head."

Liam nodded sympatically. "I'm sorry. I've been there too. Well, not exactly the same, but I've had my fair share of heartache."

Christina raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What happened?"

Liam leaned back in his chair, a faraway look in his eyes. "I was in a relationship for five years. We were engaged, actually. But it ended badly. She cheated on me."

Christina's eyes widened. "I'm so sorry. That must have been tough."

Liam nodded. "It was. But it's made me realize that sometimes, what seems like the end of the world is actually a blessing in disguise."

Christina nodded, feeling a sense of understanding. Maybe they were both here, in this moment, for a reason.

As they finished their coffee, Liam glanced at his watch. "I've got to head out soon but I'd love to see you again while you're in town maybe dinner tonight?"

Christina's heart skipped a beat. She hadn't expected to meet someone like Liam, someone who seemed to understand her. But she couldn't deny the connection she felt.

"I'd love that," she said, smiling.

Liam grinned, his eyes sparkling. "Great. I'll pick you up at 7?" As Christina nodded, she felt a sense of excitement she hadn't felt in years. Maybe this trip would be the start of something new, something beautiful.