Seeking hiking buddy to finish Segment 1 of Mountains to Sea Trail

I want to finish the section from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to Waterrock Knob (~20 miles). I did the first section solo, but I'd love to have a buddy for added safety & just somebody to enjoy the scenery and adventures with. I prefer another female unless it's somebody already connected to my circle, sorry guys. I'd like to start planning it ASAP but my schedule is flexible. I prefer weekdays but could do a weekend if necessary. I'm free June & August, gone part of July. I hiked the first segment at an average speed for that region (~1.5 mph). My style is hiking steady but leaving some time at the end of the day to relax in camp or to explore the surrounding areas pack-free. I enjoy taking photos & spending a minute here and there admiring wildlife, wildflowers, etc.