Alex placed Gaby's clothes at the foot of the bed. He had already dressed, having been woken by the sunrise. He figured he'd let her sleep a little longer. He was sure someone had noticed them missing by now, but he didn't know if the river had lowered, so it was best to stay and wait for the "rescue."
As he stirred the ashes, trying to let the fire burn out, he heard the rumble of a vehicle approaching. A few moments later he saw Ranger Raz enter the cabin.
"Oh thank God!" Raz exclaimed. "I figured if you were the smart guy I met yesterday you'd end up here."
"Yeah," Alex acknowledged.
"She in the bedroom?" Raz asked, seeing the blanket on the couch. Alex nodded. "Gentleman," Raz added, giving him a thumbs up. "Should you wake her or I?" he asked.
"I'll do it," Alex answered.
"I'll wait outside," Raz responded
Alex exited the cabin and propped himself against a pole opposite Raz.
"You know this is my cabin?" Raz asked.
"Well that explains the hospitality," Alex responded with a laugh.
"Yeah I bought it when the old owner sold. Knowing how hikers could get trapped, I left that note and made sure it was supplied. You aren't the first. And don't worry, I'll take care of the laundry."
"Thanks," Alex answered as a tired looking Gaby emerged from the cabin.
"I used the radio to let them know I found you," Raz said, "but we should get going."
Alex and Gaby hopped into his truck, with Gaby in the middle. She took a moment to check out Raz as they headed back to the cabins.
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