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He Has A Great Fondness For Cheese…

When my marriage crumbled, I made a conscious decision not to succumb to overwhelming loneliness and despair. Instead of remaining confined to the solitude of my home, indulging in mindless distractions, I resolved to seize life and find solace amidst the wilderness. Being deeply fond of nature, I opted to join a hiking club in pursuit of companionship and physical exertion. With trepidation, I ventured to the group's rendezvous at the local library on a rainy Thursday evening. To my immense relief, I was met with warm reception, discovering that I was not the sole newcomer amidst the gathering of misfits.

The initial hiking expedition required an hour-long drive from town, prompting us to congregate at a nearby coffee shop to arrange carpooling logistics and distribute trail maps. Fate led me to share a car with three individuals, including Glenn, another recent addition to the group whom I had previously noticed during our introductory meeting. As our journey to the event commenced, an atmosphere of camaraderie swiftly enveloped us, fostering effortless conversation. Positioned in the rear seat, I couldn't help but notice Glenn occasionally glancing at me through the rear-view mirror, offering an encouraging smile.

The hike itself proved to be a splendid experience. Amongst the fifteen participants, I engaged in delightful conversations with various members and a myriad of topics, relishing the opportunity to forge connections. When the time for nourishment arrived, we paused, and an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and delectable treats emerged from our backpacks. While I partook in a modest sandwich and apple, a sense of self-consciousness washed over me. Determined to contribute to the feast during subsequent hikes, I resolved to procure delectable provisions from a local deli.

On the return journey with the hiking group, I found myself sharing a car with two amiable women who happened to be educators. Laughter resonated throughout the vehicle, reawakening my yearning for the company of vivacious and captivating individuals. Amidst the joviality, fleeting thoughts of Glenn, leading the convoy in his car, stirred within me, sparking contemplation of his perception of our shared experience.

The Friday preceding our upcoming hike, I made my way to the local Italian deli to acquire cheese for the following day's lunch. While waiting in line, I happened upon Glenn, perusing the assortment of olive oils nearby. Seizing the opportunity, I approached him, breaking the silence. "Hello, Glenn. The store seems rather bustling this afternoon," I greeted. He gazed at me, momentarily puzzled, seemingly struggling to place my face. "Hi," he finally responded, the recognition dawning upon him. "It's Cheryl, from the hiking group. Remember me?" I continued, hoping to jog his memory. Another pause ensued, stretching agonizingly, until comprehension illuminated his countenance. "Oh, hi," he stammered. "I came here for the delectable cheese. I have a fondness for it," he remarked, raising his purchase triumphantly. Uttering a feeble acknowledgment, I bid him farewell, uncertain of what else to say or do in that moment.

Departing the store empty-handed, my intended purpose abandoned, I embarked on the journey back home, mulling over the peculiar encounter. At the very least, I knew that Glenn possessed an affinity for cheese, an odd but undeniable fact.

Four years have elapsed since that curious incident, and Glenn and I have remained inseparable ever since. We became an inseparable pair during the second hike and have continued to traverse life's trails together ever since. I often jest playfully about his passion for cheese, a loving banter that has become an endearing facet of our relationship.

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