"Then we will graciously accept your offer" Mark said and dipped his head then looked to the shop near the water.
Ari grinned and glanced from one to the other then ahead
Ryan smiled in acknowledgment of Marks words, then looked at the ground a few feet in front of his feet as they walked, feeling happier then he had in a long while.
---
"Okay, here are your canoes, and the paddles. Have a fun time." Zackary said, faking a smile as the small group of canoeists started to paddle away up the river. He was about to turn away from the water, and head back up the boat ramp to the shop, but three figures crossing the bridge caught his eye, and then he recognized one. "Hey, Ryan!" He shouted to them in a nonchalant way, raising his hand in greeting.
Ryan looked up sharply at the noise, saw Zack, and self concisely mimicked the gesture of greeting as heads swiveled their way.
Zack laughed at Ryan's shy attempted at a greeting, "Looks like you've got some friends with ya, come on over!" He shouted again, humored by the thought.