An interesting story. Not quite as dark as 'Ode To a Crime of Passion', but it's still very touching in its own way.
I like the fact that in the beginning, it's stated that one never reaches the hills, but in the end, or main character is already on one!
There is one thing that could be considered a bit of a flaw: when the main character answers the old man, you say "...answered in reply to his question, in my own brand of.."
Using 'in' twice in a sentence, but with slightly different meanings is something that could annoy readers. Personally, I can live with it, but you can't help but notice it. It throws a reader off a bit.
Still, it could hardly be called a mistake.
~Valken (valken.deviantart.com)

This is beautiful. Keep up the good work.

Wow. this is really, really, REALLY good. The story is awfully sad, but it's such a simple little tale that after you finish it you just sit there for a moment and think about it. Awesome imagery.