PopularNovelChapter 309 "Hang on, I'll be right there!" Fresh out of the shower, Mila called back as she towel-dried her hair, her voice carrying a hint of cheerfulness.
Sensing Archie's impatience from beyond the door, she hurried her pace-pulling on the lightweight pink-and- black windbreaker she'd grabbed at the highway rest stop, giving her hair a quick rub, and heading over to let him in.
"Ready?" she asked, swinging the door open.
Archie blinked in surprise when he saw her. "Why's your hair still wet?" "It's fine. Let's just go get our stuff." "No way. It's still raining outside, and you just got over a fever. The roads ahead are way tougher than anything we've done so far. If you get sick again now, we're toast." Under Archie's unwavering insistence, Mila retreated and dutifully blow-dried her hair, bundling up before stepping back out.
The two of them had already mapped out a thorough supply list-thanks to online travel guides and advice from seasoned road-trippers-so they made a beeline for the biggest outdoor sports store in town.
Their main haul: Tents, sleeping bags, UV-protection sunglasses, a first aid kit, trekking poles, and other hiking essentials.
They stocked up on daily necessities and food supplies, grabbed portable chargers, a digital altimeter, a pile of handy car tools, and thick clothes with hats and boots.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtBecause the elevation along the Trans-Mountain Highway would climb steadily, they added portable oxygen canisters just in case. Sure, driving allowed for sadjustment, but it never hurt to be prepared.
After triple-checking that nothing was missing, they enjoyed one last meal in Magnolia Harbor. They inspected the SUV, updated the in-car GPS, and downloaded offline maps just in case they lost signal in the wilderness. By afternoon, they were ready to hit the road.
The black SUV roared to life on the wide, open highway.
Archie, dressed in all black, slid behind the wheel and shot Mila a grin, his energy infectious. "Well, cousin, are you ready for this?" "Yeah," Mila replied, her tone cool and steady. She'd grown used to Archie's teenage bravado, but even she couldn't deny a flutter of anticipation beneath her calm exterior.
She'd had adventures before.
But nothing quite like this.
It all felt so new.
How could she not be a little excited? Mila pulled out her brand-new camera-one she'd splurged on during their gear run-and snapped a picture of the endless road unfurling ahead through the windshield.
Their main destination was Solaris City, famed for its grand cathedrals and gathering of renowned scholars. But Mila was just as eager to experience the breathtaking mountains and vibrant cultures along the way.
She still hadn't forgotten the upcoming summer International Fashion Week. This was her big break.
Her great-aunt had reminded her: This year's Fashion Week had two main themes-one inspired by rubies, the other by landscapes. Mila would need to design two collections, each reflecting one of the themes, to present on the world stage.
This would be her first public debut before the international elite.
It was her shot at fa turning point that could define the rest of her career. And for that, she needed inspiration.
Unfortunately, the perfect ruby she'd had her eye on was snatched up at auction by Lysander and given to Giselle Harvey, so her gemstone collection was only half-finished for now.
But as for landscapes—this road trip was the perfect opportunity to gather ideas and materials.
There couldn't be a better moment.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmClutching her camera, Mila stared out at the endless highway. Sunlight spilled across her delicate features, gilding her eyes with a warm, golden glow.
Archie slammed the horn, letting out a triumphant whoop.
The SUV thundered forward.
Their black car barreled down the road, carrying them into the unknown-riding the wind along this legendary route nicknamed "Heaven's Highway." The rush of air outside sang in their ears. They were officially on their way.
The 317 route was famous for its scenery and culture-a tapestry of the extraordinary and the unfamiliar.
Once they left Magnolia Harbor, their first stop was Esterbrook. Through the ndow, Mila watched villages clinging to the mountainsides, their houses painted in every color imaginable. Jagged peaks loomed overhead, shrouded in wisps of cloud.
Terraced fields of green tumbled down the slopes in neat, winding patterns-a feast for the eyes. In the distance, tiny figures climbed the limy terraces with baskets slung over their backs, busy with daily chores, a wild charm in their movements.
The first part of the journey was relatively easy-perfect for making good tWith their tight schedule, they decided not to stop just yet.
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