(This is the first time I’ve written anything to be read by others, so I’m a little nervous. It’s intended as a slower burn. There’s a lot more interaction coming up, I promise. If this turns you on or even better - inspires something real, please let me know!)

The smell of the forest creeps in through wire screens, thick with morning dew, moss, and wildflowers. It’s calming, familiar, and alien all at once - an appetizer of sorts for the day of adventure and exploration awaiting Deirdre and Henry, or Dee and Hank, as their friends call them. Dee sits cozily with a hot cup of morning tea between her hands, savoring the final, quiet moments before setting out. She takes in the new day as it peeks over the majestic ridge under which their modest cabin sits.

Not their cabin, per se… it’s a ranger’s cabin. The lead ranger’s cabin, in fact. It belongs to Ivy Sullivan, Park Superintendent and Head Warden of the beloved-but-hidden gem known as Rainshadow Forest Park, the Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secret. Dee and Hank are her guests. They won the “Ranger for a Weekend Sweepstakes” - an extended weekend adventure experience to be led by none other than Ivy, who will show them “a day in the life” and serve as their woodsy Sherpa / babysitter / insurance policy. Yay, REI.

Deirdre glances over at her man, still asleep. He has a slightly goofy, over-satisfied smile on his face, likely a souvenir from their passionate but lazy nightcap after a whole lot of flying and a little bit of tequila. Hank’s been oddly pumped about this, as the couple had been playing with the idea to go on an outdoor adventure, just the two of them.

It’s not quite the rustic tussle with nature that they talked about, but still a nice diversion from their recent urban and resort-focused trips. What should make this particularly special is the fact they’ll be getting an exclusive insider’s tour of one of the most beautiful, yet under-the-radar forests in the United States.

Arrival The trio spent an hour and a half driving form the airport. It started as expected - awkward but friendly intros, fumbled loading of luggage into the back of the Jeep, and polite small talk about the weather and their flight. But as they wound their way through the towering tree and the narrow, winding road roads, the conversation became easier, more comfortable. Ivy, with her bright red hair pulled into a loose ponytail, spoke passionately about the forest, its hidden gems, and the adventures awaiting them.

Dee and Hank spent an hour and a half with Ivy as she drove them from the airport. They must’ve gotten the tired version, as it was dark, sprinkling, and at the tail-end of a long day not just for them, but also for her. Her day-to-day, as she explained on the ride, involves a surprising amount of paperwork, patrols, working with a frequently confused public, equipment maintenance, and begging the state for funds. Yet, she still sleeps well. She said her full team of six is on for the weekend, so it’ll be a pleasant change-up from her normal routine. They’ll get to do more of the fun stuff.

Dee got a quick look at Ivy under Arrivals’ halogen lights as she met them outside. She guessed Ivy was about 5’10” in hiking boots and had a determined, forward lean in her gait, as if she was always climbing a hill. She wore her wavy red hair in a ponytail underneath her ranger’s hat, which gave a playful bounce with each hill-climb-y step. Ivy looked way younger than 40 - the only sign of her age being light smile lines from the edges of her tired but caring eyes. Dee noticed Hank silently mouthing “BIG NATURALS” with comically wide eyes as Ivy walked ahead of them, making her chuckle. Mostly legs for her height, slightly narrow hips, and plump, healthy breasts - Dee didn’t think Hank was wrong calling Ivy “spiritually rugged but unmistakably feminine.” Ivy must’ve sensed them, because she briefly broke her tired demeanor to smile back with her imperfect teeth and taunt them with, “I hope you don’t get carsick.” Hank’s eyes bulged with preemptive nausea. It’s like she knew.

The ride to Ivy’s cabin was uneventful and dark. Ivy was definitely done for the day and certainly not “on.” She said she’d save the guide schtick for tomorrow. They talked mostly about Michigan, up north, home life, their jobs, the getting-to-know-each-other basics. It did stick out that Ivy was widowed with no kids. She said she pours herself into the park, taking her duty as its protector very seriously. “I guess I’m sort of married to Rainshadow,” she said. She mentioned enjoying a nightly drink, like Dee, and “speaks fluent Bravo.” She said she’s taking up watercolors but admits it’s really just an accompaniment to her drinks.

Dee was yanked from Rainshadow’s magic reveal as Ivy barged into their guest room. It was her cabin, but… privacy? “Up and at ‘em, we have ranger shit to do. No more navel-gazing!” she said with a devilish grin. Her demeanor was a far cry from last night. She was probably more herself, definitely more awake, and now with a sort of sexy/funny faux-drill-instructor vibe. And in undoubted protector mode, strapped across her back was a handsome-looking black rifle. It was imposing and a little nerve-racking. She noticed Dee staring at it. “Don’t you worry, we only need this for werewolf attacks and… it’s a waning moon tonight,” she said, teasingly. “But joking aside, it’s one of my key tools out here in the timberland. Sometimes novice hikers get lost in bear territory during the thaw, or some bastard coward hits a deer while driving in Cedar Parkway and leaves them for dead. It’s necessary and I know how to use it.” Her confidence was both calming and inspiring. The rifle strap tugged tightly against her chest, emphasizing the fullness of her breasts. Ivy didn’t notice that it pulled just so that it created a peek at her red bra - lined with sensual lace that was not nearly as practical as Dee would have expected. Just above her top button was a glance at her ample cleavage, each inhale heaving her tits up and out, almost beckoning to be touched. Dee’s stare was interrupted by the sound of Ivy’s walkie.

“Warden, it’s Pete. We got another illegal dumping near site 4. Sarah and I are calling it in, like you asked. You’re gonna need to file this one. It’s getting stupid. Over.” Ivy responded, “Thanks, P. I appreciate you. I’m gonna take our guests out on the opposite side today anyway. Over.” Looking over to Dee and Hank, she said, “We have some locals who’ve been dumping random auto parts into one of our more tucked-away ponds. We’ve been patrolling the hell outta the area and they still manage to get their crap in there. I need to request funds for automated surveillance at this point. Sorry about this.”

“No problem! We signed up for the whole experience - paperwork and all. We get it,” Hank said to her. Ivy seemed a little relieved at their appreciation for the more mundane aspects of her job. She mentioned something about it not being all adventure, all of the time, but she still loved it dearly. “I know what’s under every leaf, between every rock, and within every creek of this park. I’m still in love with it. There are still parts unseen only I’m capable of exploring. So… I get to experience something beautiful every day, even when there’s paperwork.” They all smiled at each other.

Ivy took them out on a ride, passionately describing its unwritten history across eons. Dee and Hank were particularly impressed by the view at the top of the ridge, where they could see the entire treeline as it spanned to the foot of the mountains. An immense, beautiful purple mountain jutted up wall-like across the horizon. To think that everything in their sight was teeming with life.

The Pump Later that morning, after a hearty breakfast, Ivy led Dee and Hank to a clearing where a small, weathered water pump stood. “This old pump’s been acting up,” Ivy explained. “Think you two can give me a hand?”

Dee and Hank eagerly agreed, and the three of them set to work. The pump was an old, hand-operated model, its metal frame corroded and covered in moss. Ivy handed Hank a set of tools, including a wrench and a screwdriver, and he knelt down to inspect the mechanism.

As Hank worked on loosening some bolts, Ivy and Dee took turns pumping water to test the flow. The handle was stiff, requiring their combined strength to move it. Sweat formed on their brows as they worked under the mid-morning sun. Ivy pointed out the worn-out gasket that seemed to be the source of the problem.

“I think we need to replace this gasket,” she said, holding it up for Hank to see. “It’s cracked and not sealing properly.”

Hank nodded and rummaged through Ivy’s toolkit, finding a spare gasket. He carefully fitted it into place while Ivy held the pump steady. Dee watched intently, fascinated by Hank’s methodical approach and Ivy’s expert guidance. She admired Ivy’s practical knowledge and the way she could diagnose and address issues with such confidence.

When it came time to reassemble the pump, Dee took charge of the smaller screws, her nimble fingers working efficiently. Ivy stood close by, offering advice and occasionally stepping in to help. Their hands brushed against each other several times, sending a jolt of electricity through Dee. She noticed the fine details of Ivy’s hands - the callouses from years of hard work, the strength in her grip, and the gentle care with which she handled the equipment.

The Waterfall An hour later, the pump was fixed, and the first few pumps brought a steady stream of clear water gushing out. Ivy cheered, giving Hank and Dee high-fives. Both women ended up covered in dirt and grime, but their faces were lit up with satisfaction.

Ivy looked at Dee and laughed. “We need to get cleaned up. How about a quick dip in the waterfall?”

Dee’s eyes lit up. “That sounds perfect!”

Hank grinned. “As you can see, I’m Mr Clean. You two go ahead. I’ll finish up here.”

Dee followed Ivy through a narrow path, the roar of rushing water growing louder with each step. They wound their way through dense foliage and under low-hanging branches, the sun filtering through the canopy above and scattering light across the forest floor. Dee could feel her anticipation growing as they approached the waterfall.

When they reached the waterfall, Dee gasped at the sight. The crystal-clear water cascaded down the rocks into a sparkling pool below, surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the water crashing down was both soothing and invigorating.

“It’s incredible,” Dee whispered.

“Isn’t it?” Ivy smiled. “Come on, let’s get cleaned up.”

Ivy began to strip off her clothes, revealing a toned body beneath. Dee hesitated for a moment, her eyes lingering on Ivy’s curves. Ivy caught her gaze and smiled, her eyes filled with a knowing glint. Dee felt a surge of arousal but quickly looked away and started undressing.

As the cold water hit her skin, Dee felt invigorated. She felt alive. She watched Ivy as she moved gracefully under the waterfall, the water cascading over her body. Dee couldn’t take her eyes off her, feeling a mix of admiration and desire. Ivy turned and caught her staring again, this time holding her gaze.

Without breaking eye contact, Ivy walked towards Dee, stopping just inches away. Dee’s heart pounded as she felt the heat between them. Ivy leaned in, her breath warm against Dee’s ear as she whispered through the roar of the falls, “You look like you belong here, Dee.”

Dee’s breath caught in her throat as Ivy stepped back, giving her a shy smile before turning and walking to the other side of the waterfall. Dee watched her go, feeling a mix of curiosity and excitement. She tried to focus on washing herself, but her thoughts kept drifting back to Ivy.

After a few minutes, Dee noticed Ivy hadn’t returned. Feeling a pang of curiosity, Dee decided to check on her. Stepping carefully over the wet rocks, Dee made her way behind the waterfall, where the sound of the water was a deafening backdrop.

As she rounded the corner, Dee stopped in her tracks. There, in a secluded alcove hidden by the falling water, was Ivy, her back arched and one hand between her legs. Ivy’s eyes were closed, her lips parted as she explored her own arousal. She was lost in her own world, her movements steady and rhythmic.

Dee’s breath hitched, her body reacting instantly to the sight. She remained hidden, her gaze fixed on Ivy. The raw, unfiltered desire on Ivy’s face was captivating. Dee could see Ivy’s fingers moving rhythmically, her body tensing with each touch.

Dee’s heart pounded as she took in the scene, her own arousal growing with each passing moment. She stayed concealed behind the waterfall, careful not to make a sound or draw attention to herself. The intimacy of the moment, combined with the backdrop of the waterfall, heightened her senses.

Ivy’s moans were barely audible over the roar of the water, but they sent shivers down Dee’s spine. She watched as Ivy’s breathing grew heavier, her body arching slightly in response to her own touch. Despite the intensity of the scene, Ivy remained oblivious to Dee’s presence, her focus solely on her own pleasure.

After several minutes, Ivy’s movements began to slow. She remained lost in her thoughts, the intensity of her arousal gradually fading. Dee, still hidden, took in every detail, feeling a mix of intrigue and desire.

Finally, Ivy took a deep breath and withdrew her hand, looking around as if coming out of a trance. She adjusted her clothing and began to make her way back toward the main area, still unaware of Dee’s presence behind the waterfall.

Dee waited a moment before emerging from her hiding spot, her mind reeling from the encounter. As she rejoined Ivy and Hank, she felt a mix of anticipation and excitement about the evening ahead, her thoughts lingering on the intimate moment she had witnessed.