Jake and the Quest for Success

Chapter 8: So Close, But Yet So Far

Coming upon the tiny signage posted into the crumble gray rock on the trail Jake was given a gigantic surprise. The sign said Jake had ran 2 miles from his original starting location. Jake couldn't believe it, he didn't think he had it in him, his body was more sure of it's abilities then his brain was. Flabbergasted by how far he had just ran Jake continued on down the trail, constantly looking to his right over the edge of the mountain. The view was breathtaking and because of the steepness of the trail he had really climbed high in only a short distance. With this height Jake could see for miles looking at the rolling hills and winding rivers. Jake strained his eyes to try to see his house, but he was a little to high up and the clouds where obscuring his vision. Walking step after step Jake continued along his path passing a sign for 3 miles and soon he came up to a sign that said 4 miles. He was almost at the top just 1 more mile to go, but he soon found himself in a bind. Looking up at the path he would have to take, Jake saw that the trail was growing increasingly uneven and that large boulders had fallen onto the path. "There must have been an avalanche recently," Jake observed taking in all of the details. Coming to the first large boulder, which had fallen blocking the left side of the trail. Jake would have to move to the right side of the trail close to the edge of the mountain. There was no guard rail and if Jake fell he would surely die. He moved to his right, side stepping the boulder, but as he tried to squeeze past the boulder small bits of gravel started to move under his feet. Quickly before Jake could even realize what was happening the rocks slipped out from under Jake's feet. He fell backwards onto his back rolling to his left to avoid going over the edge. "Ahh," Jake screamed while this all played out only surviving thanks to his fast reflexes.