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Chapter Text

Y/n | June 25th

~ 10:38 AM ~

The house was silent, and I had just woken up due to my alarm. I was gonna be a new counselor of Hackett's Quarry Summer Camp, and apparently taking care of teaching kids about the forest, and an assistant...so 'Wildlife Training' and 'Counselor Assistance'. It seemed I was feeling less and less excited about this experience the closer it gets. Mr Hackett is suppose to pick me up at 11, along with other counselors. I double check all my belongings in my bags, making sure everything is there. I rummaged in the bags for a while, until I figured everything was there. I zip the bags up and head for the door, giving one last look at my house, before opening the door and entering the sun filled yard. 

I walk down the pathway and stand ways off the street. The road was completely empty, not even kids playing outside, school should be out by now? I glance from both sides of the road and open my phone, checking my emails. "Let's see who I'm working with" I mumbled to myself, opening the email reading 'Hackett's Quarry Counselors'. The email was long and wordy, and I hardly read any of it. Of course I took a screenshot of important dates, thus me being on the side of the road waiting for Mr.H, but besides that, nothing really. I scroll down to the attendance list. Mr.H said that he'd give us a list of campers we'd have at camp, but for now, I can only pray to not have snotty kids. I head to the colorful part of the email. There were names listed, none that I recognize. 

"What was I even thinking-" I place my phone back in my pocket and throw my hands up. "Not like I'll get a read on their personality from their names" I take a big breath and glance at the ruckus from the end of the road. 

A big blue van with a white underneath can be seen approaching the road. It turns sharply on the curve, and stops really quick in front of my driveway. I approached the window on what is supposed to be the driver, it was hard to see with the dark tint covering all the windows. The window slides down without any hardship and a man who looks to be in his late 40's turns his head and smiles at me. "Hah, sorry for the sudden brake" He chuckles, pointing to his phone on a stand with a picture of maps and directions. "The map says your house is further down the road," He explained, opening his door and coming out of the vehicle. He brings his posture to a steady figure and stands tall. He extends his hand. I reciprocate the gesture and he grips my hand firmly, shaking it up once and letting go as we reach a steady position. 

"I'm Chris Hackett, the camp leader of Hackett's Quarry Summer Camp" He said with a bright smile. Clearly a man who is proud of his position in life. He had short brown grey hair. Even though no one was at camp yet, he is wearing a buttoned shirt and matching shorts paired with hiking shoes. He also is wearing multiple badges above his breast-pocket including a badge labeled 'C.Hackett'. "Ah, um" I was hesitant from the abrupt recall to real life. "[Y/n] [L/n]" I spoke, giving a half ass smile. He glances at me confused but eager. "Well, it's a pleasure to have you join us this year [Y/n]" He says, backing up and going to the back of the car, insinuating for me to follow him. He opened the trunk and it was already filled with a couple of bags, however, it was very easy to put your bags in. "Please, put your bags here" He says, holding the trunk door open. My steps were gingerly as I made my way to the back of the car. My hands were going numb from the unethical way I was holding the bags. I manage to place them comfortably on top of other bags, making sure not to crush anything and topple anything. I back up slightly as Mr.H closes the door with a harsh slam. "Now!" He clasps his hands. "Let's get on the road again shall we?" He ponders the question. "Sure?" I said, still questioning my own reasoning for applying to be a counselor. 

I open the right door of the car and was met with faces. One was a pretty girl with fair skin, hazel eyes and shoulder length blond hair tied into a high ponytail. Her bangs were combed into small curtain bangs. Her make-up was minimal but still apparent. She was wearing an olive long sleeved turtle-necked shirt that reveals her midriff. She applies it with a stylish chained necklace. It's accompanied by black jeans with white sneakers. She is sitting exactly next to a girl with brown eyes and a white complexion. She also had shoulder length hair that was black that faded into red. She was currently wearing a black T-shirt with white cuffed sleeves, a complex design imprinted on it. She wears torn denim shorts with a belt along with black stocking, paired with black shoes. I also notice a tattoo of flowers on her right wrist. They both look at me, the blond girl have a little cocky smirk on her as the other girl scoots farther to leave some space. I smile at them anxiously and slip into the seat, until I realized there was a guy behind them.

There was an extra row of seats and a tall man sat there. He was a handsome young man, with a slight tan. He had these piercing brown eyes and curly brown hair. He is wearing a white and red long sleeve T-shirt with the word 'MANNINGTON' and an emblem. He also wears jeans that fall over his white sneakers. Mr.H looks behind to make sure everyone was ok. He inserted his key back into the ignition, and that’s when I decided it'd be a nice time to buckle up. Chris backs up into my driveway and heads back the way he came from, going to pick up another counselor.

“Hi there" the blond hair girl peeked her head over the black hair girl, extending her hand. "I'm Emma" she gracefully introduces herself. I grasp my hand with her's. "[Y/n]" I reply simply, you couldn't get any simpler. "This over here is Abi" she pointed to the girl beside her. "Actually it's Abigail, but Abi for short, nice to meet you" she cut Emma and stuck her hand out with a small warm smile. I shook her hand at mirrored her smile. "Nice to meet you" "And that over there, is Nick" Emma leans her elbow over the seat and points her finger to the male behind them. The male raises his head and smiles, showing his teeth slightly. "Hello" He spoke, a foreign accent slipping out. "Hi" I said taking a refreshing breath.

The road was quite long and the time had strike 11h43, and we pulled up to a cute little house. Mr.H seemed to be extra happy being here and didn't even need to put in the direction to find this house. The door opened with a small creek as he waves off a little figure from the doorway. He heads to the van which is where I could get a clear picture of who I was looking at. This man had a light brown complexion, with deep brown eyes, full lips and short black hair styled into faded haircut. Compared to the other counselors, he is noticeably slender having thin arms, legs and a slimmer waist. He was wearing a black graphic tee with a print of a stylized wolfish face and the words ‘Cult Damage’ and ‘No Future Club’ underneath. He wears a white long-sleeved undershirt. That extended just below his hip. He wears a near black denim skinny jeans with worn holes at the knees tucked into dark red converse with a small platform. He was currently seen with earbuds that hang between the shirts.

He opened the passenger door and sat promptly on the seat. He only had one bag somehow and settled it on his lap. He gave a small smile to Mr.H as it was received with much more joy.

“Alright everyone!” Mr.H turns around facing us. “This is Ryan, he is a returning counselor at the Quarry” he announced, introducing the young man.

“Hey” Ryan said with a simple tone to his voice. I just noticed he had a little mole near his lip…it was cute.

“Hi, I'm Emma,” she said looking up from her phone with pleasure. “I'm Abigail” she softly banged her knees together. “[Y/n]” I spoke with a hint of amusement. His eyebrows slightly rose as he heard the pitch of excitement. “Nick,” the young man replied from behind us.

Mr.H punched in the new direction and was on their way, Ryan waved off an elderly woman before finally facing forward towards the road.

It took about 30 minutes to get other counselors in the van, and only one was left. 

I was currently hovering my shoulder over my seat talking to Nick, Jacob, and Kaitlyn. The girl and guy were the latest counselors that have been picked up. 

Jacob is a young man with light skin, brown eyes and brown hair in a crew cut. He also spots a light stubble. Compared to the others he displays a very athletic muscular build. He consists of a dark green long sleeve T-shirt with a big neckline and a black T-shirt underneath, black pants accompanied with black shoes. He also wears a black cap which he tends to wear backwards.

The girl's name was Kaitlyn, she was a young woman with fair skin. Her brown eyes are covered with dark eyeshadow and dark voluminous hair.  She styled into a side part, slick to the right and she bears a gold bee earring on her left earlobe. She was wearing a yellow crop hoodie with a black undershirt and gym leggings, paired with white sneakers. 

The four of us were talking about nothing in particular, jumping from one subject to the other. However, the conversation came to a halt as Mr. H pulled up next to a huge house. Almost looks like a mansion. Nobody seemed to notice except me and Ryan. The house had four stories and the lights wear on, at least from what you could see from the windows. It seems the last counselor was sneaking out of his house. He closed the door with delicacies and anxiously walked over to the car. Mr.H presses a button and it makes Ryan’s window lower. He leaned over and got into Ryan’s personal space, as the young man poked his head into the window. “Hey Mr.H” he spoke in a familiar tone. 

“Got tired of being a camper that you became a counselor, huh, Dylan?” Mr.H seems to chuckle at himself, bringing up the young man’s past. 

Ryan glanced at the two males and backed up his seat, however, he clearly wasn’t in control of how far the seat was gonna go as the back of the seat bangs into [Y/n]’s knees. “Gah, Shit” [Y/n] gasp, taking a hold of their knees as everyone’s eyes land on them. Ryan stops immediately and pokes his head over his seat, “Ah, sorry, I didn't mean to. You aren’t hurt are you?” he asked, glancing at [Y/n]’s knee and back up to their face. They waved their hands nonchalantly and said “Nah, you just surprised me” they comforted him. 

The young man who was peering through the window smiles faintly. He extracted his head and went to the back of the car, opening the trunk and seeming to carelessly throw his bangs in and shut the door as quietly as possible. [Y/n] unbuckled their seatbelt and opened the door. They pushed their seats forward giving access to the back row of seats. The young man bows to them, “Well, Thank you very much!” he spoke and shuffled himself into the back as the three counselors in the back quickly made him join the conversation. [Y/n] fixed the seat and sat back down and buckled themself once more. 

I went to tilt my head to get a good look at the last counselor, and it seems like Ryan was doing the same thing. 

Dylan, was supposedly his name, is a young man with pale skin, brown eyes, and short brown hair with a high bang that reveals his forehead. He has a tattoo of a half realistic, half geometric wolf on his left forearm, although it is partially covered by his T-shirt. The t-shirt was plain gray, with a band print "UNDANCE TOUR 1988" and rolled up sleeves, dons blue jeans, and charcoal slip-ons. Dylan wears a necklace under his T-shirt, a black watch on his right hand and two thin bracelets on his left hand.

On first impression it was easy to see he was the most carefree of us all.

I glanced back to the front of the vehicle, but it seems Ryan wasn’t done looking. Once he realized my gaze flickered towards him, he focused his sights on the road. Mr.H looked at his phone and swipe up, getting out of the maps app. He closes his phone and shoves it in his pocket.

It was currently 12h57. “Aright Hacketteers, it’s time to officially head to camp!” he expressed himself, shifting his body to face the counselors. A small ‘woo’ can be heard from Dylan and Kaitlyn. “Thank you” Chris pretended to bow. “Now, it won't take long for us to get there, might take about 40 minutes.” he states, placing his body into his seat and starts to drive down the road. “I hope you all aren’t too hungry-”.

Nick groans, making everyone look, “I could so go for some cheese and bacon rolls” he states, as his stomach growls ironically. Everyone was silent looking at each other until Abi broke the silence. “um…what?” was the only word that left her mouth, but she described everyone’s feelings personally. Nick took time to look at everyone who was just as confused, “Cheese and bacon rolls?” He pondered his recent words, tilting his head slightly. He looked like a lost puppy. 

“Ya, what’s that?” Emma said, turning her head towards Nick. “Oh! They’re popular bread snacks originating in Australia. It's a fluffy white bread roll topped with cheese and bacon.” he explained perfectly. 

“And that’s what you're craving?” Jacob judged, arching his eyebrows, nudging Dylan for encouragement. “Why not like…a pizza?” he continued.

“To be honest, I wouldn’t be opposed to trying it” [Y/n] spoke, laying their head against their forearm. “Same!” Abi chimed him.

“Well, if you two are lucky, I might make it during camp” he smirked, being pleased with his two defenders.

Y/n | June 25th

~ 13:37 PM ~

The trip felt longer than 40 minutes, and it wasn’t long before everyone’s stomach was growling. As the vehicle comes to a stop, everyone gets out of the van as two kids were waiting in front of the lodge. Chris exits the car and throws his hands up, “Kaylee, Caleb!” he said happily, he went up to them and hugged them, seeming to whisper something, however it was incomprehensible at my distance. 

Jacob, Kaitlyn, Dylan and Nick were all stretching their legs from being in a tight space. Emma seemed to be hovering her phone over the trees and the sun giving the path a wonderful glow. Ryan stayed in his spot until Chris released his kids from the hug. Kaylee and Caleb rushed over to him, their eyes beaming with joy and seem to be pampering him. 

‘Hm? Mr. Popular’ I thought, giving myself time to take in the scenery. 

“Alright everyone gather in the lodge” Mr.H said, starting to make his way up the lodge stairs. 

“But sir, what about our bags?” Abi pointing her arms in the direction of the van. 

“We’ll take care of that later!” He seemed to just be excited to start the season. 

Everyone gave each other glances as Abi lowered her arms in defeat. “C’mon!” Kaylee nagged over the rim of the balcony. She backs away and opens the door, Caleb and her entering the room, shutting the door behind her. We all started to march up the stairs and as we all headed to the door, Jacob sprinted and held the door open for everyone. An unconscious smile crept on my face, as I put my hands in my pocket. Kaitlyn seems to walk up to him and jab him in the stomach, causing his grip to let go of the door, and stagger back a bit. “You ain’t impressing anyone with your chivalry act” she crossed her hands and walked inside as Emma followed behind her, chuckling a bit. Abi gave a sympathetic look and she too walked inside. Nick, walks up to Jacob chuckling slightly as he lets him walk inside as he crouches slightly due to the slight pain. 

“Well, this is gonna be a fun season,” Ryan sarcastically said, grabbing the door and holding it open for me and Dylan. 

“Tell me about it,” Dylan chuckled. “Thank you” he whispered, entering the lodge. 

“Thanks Ryan” I smiled, walking into the room.

Ryan enters and closes the door behind him. 

The lodge gave your typical 80’s vibe and it felt quite cosy. There were a plethora of tables on the main floor, it was clean without any crumbles or dirt stains. Mr.H disappearing into the left room. Kaylee clasps her hands together, gaining everyone’s attention. 

“Alright! So from this day on, you guys are all Hacketteers!” she said. “Tomorrow, the kids will be showing up, so we have to make you familiar with the campgrounds” she states. “Now, as I heard,” Kaylee directed her finger at Dylan. “Dylan, you were a camper here, correct?” she smiled brightly.

“Ya, I know this camp like the back of my hand” he said proud of himself. 

“Nice! And Ryan is a returning counselor. See we already have two people who know their way around” she refrained. “If you need directions, don't be afraid to ask them” she spoke as Mr. H walked back out with a plastic box. He stuck the box out. “Now, all electronics in the box” he said with a devilish smirk. 

Alot of complaints were roaring from inside the lodge. There was nothing in the email that said there would be no electronics. Ryan took a couple steps back, tucking his earphones deeper into his shirt. 

“Enough, as counselors, there needs to be no distractions. Plus, it’s good to be away from the internet, take in nature!” He expressed his gratitude and shook the box, indicating to hurry this process up.

“uh, where are you gonna store our phones?” Emma asked, safely placing her phone in the box. “You don’t need to worry Emma, all your phones will be secure, in my office” he stated. Everyone started to pile their phones into the box, except Ryan. BUT, I decided to keep my mouth shut, and let him have his peace.

“Thank you” he sets the box of the table behind him. “Now, let's all get you settle into your room. You’ll all be separated by gender” He said, scanning his eyes on the counselors. “Girls, you’ll follow Kaylee, and guys, you’ll follow Caleb” everybody was starting to separate into their group as I stood in the middle of the floor, glancing at both sides of given options. 

Mr.H came up to me and placed a hand on my shoulder, “You don’t have to worry [Y/n], you’ll get a separate room” he smiles comfortingly. He goes and grabs the box and allows me to follow him up the lodge stairs. Unlike the other, Mr.H was escorting me to a secretive part of the lodge. We walked down a narrow hallway until a door came into view. “This is your room” he stated, opening the door, and leaving room for me to pass. The room was quiet yet peaceful. There was a single bed in the middle of the room with a comforting glow of the sun through the window. It had a little cupboard right next to the bed with a lamp, to the left, there was a wardrobe.

“I’m glad you told me in advance.” he said with a small smile. “This was Kaylee’s room before. We fixed it after learning about you”

I turned to face, “Thank you Mr.H!” I yelped with sincerity. 

“Hey, you can call me Chris, and no problem.” he said, coming into the room and giving me a side hug.

Y/n | June 25th

~ 16:21 PM ~

“And there!” Emma grunted, finally getting her last bag into her room. 

The rooms doors had locks on them, every person had a little key on them to open their respective door. [Y/n] and the rest are waiting downstairs around a table, glancing over at the paper which was in their hand. Emma closes her door and locks it, coming downstairs and sitting herself to the right of Abigail and the left of Jacob. The list consists of our duties and the list of kids we had. 

I glanced up to my side and saw Nick had one more piece of paper than the rest of us. His extra sheet is composed of allergies the kids have. I, too, had a list of allergies, but it was relatively short, and most compose of kids allergies to grass, or bees, ect. 

Mr.H situates himself in front of the table and states that Kaitlyn and I had to take more responsibilities due to some counselors changing their mind last minute. It took us a minute to actually read over the instructions. From on going convo, Emma was the theatre coach, Abi was the art tutor, Nick was the kitchen supervisor, Jacob was the sports coach, Kaitlyn was the activities coordinator and first aid support, Dylan was in charge of announcements and scheduling, Ryan the sailing coach, and I was in charge of wildlife training and an assistant for the counselors. 

Dylan and Kailtyn seemed to be working together due to their close knit tasks. And by the tour that Kaylee and Caleb gave us earlier, Emma and Abi will also be working together quite often. On my end, it seems I'll be inclined to communicate more with Jacob, I'll probably run by him during trail hunts or something. 

“Now that you all know your duties, it’s time for some bonding time” Mr.H spoke with enthusiasm, taking a big breath before directing everyone to the kitchen. It was almost supper, but, since we would all be working together in some instances, there's no harm in getting closer. Mr.H got some aprons and everyone swiftly wrapped in around themself, however, Chris made Nick stand in front of the counter, alone, while everyone was on the other side of the counter, awaiting. 

“So, Nick, since you're gonna be the kitchen supervisor, you're gonna direct us in what we're making tonight!” Chris said, tightening his own apron. “But, to help you” he placed a piece of paper in front of him indicating ‘ Quesadillas’. “We’ll be doing simple quesadillas, that sounds ok?”  he asked, tilting his head to meet the boys, who’s own head was slumping slightly. He glances up at the paper, and grasps it in his hand, scanning the ingredients and tools he’ll need. “Is everything needed…here?” he took in view Mr.H as he nodded his head. “Then ya, we could totally do this!” he said, pumping his fist, in the air and then immediately bringing it down in embarrassment. 

Nick immediately took charge of the kitchen, making it his domain. He wasn’t like Gordon Ramsay, he just knew what had to be done, and everyone listened. The kitchen was separated into groups, once again, it consisted of: Me, Jacob, Emma, and Mr.H, while the other team had: Kaitlyn, Ryan, Dylan and Abi. Multiple ingredients were thrown in the mix, and there was a big discussion in adding mushrooms to the quesadillas. I also had some thoughts on that, it wasn’t long before I joined in the debate. 

Y/n | June 25th

~ 18:05 PM ~

The quesadillas were finally finished and everyone had washed their hands, getting ready to dig in. Being honest, that exercise really helped everyone communicate. Emma was expressing how delicious the meal was with Dylan and he returned his delight with bad puns. I found myself engaging in conversations with Nick and Kaitlyn. Ryan, Jacob and Abi were also talking…well, it was more Jacob talking, but they added their opinion when needed. 

“Wow! So you've been friends with Jacob for that long?” I spoke in awe, converting my mouth with my hand. 

“Yup!” Kaitlyn nods her head, impressed by herself. “I could never imagine, you guys don't act like friends” Nick imputed. “Oh well, we kind of talked less during high school, but we never lost our connection-” she slumped in her seat. “Anyways!” she prompts herself back up. “[Y/n]!” she directs her gaze to me. “Anyone you find attractive?” Nick choked on his meal as I rolled my eyes.

“It’s only the first day?” I said I was confused. “I can’t even tell what they’re like. Put me in a near death scenario, then I'll be back with your answer!” I joked, and she chuckled along. Nick recovers and ponders the question, “Oh c’mon, there's gotta be someone you think, atleast, looks attractive”

I took a glance back at the counselors who will be my new coworkers. If I had to admit, they were all relatively attractive and it was hard to pick one. 

“I don't know” I turn back to face them. “I’d say they all look good” 

And we left it at that, of course, I wouldn’t even be able to see how much feelings would start to blossom during these two months, and I count myself lucky for how it all turned out. 

Y/n | June 25th

~ 21:37 PM ~

Everyone had headed to their rooms for the night and I still found myself lying on one of the tables down in the lodge. I was tired, and I did have motivation to move up to my room, just there's something eerie about this place. Which is odd, considering I haven’t seen anything of the ordinary. I take a breath and push myself off the table with the help of my hands. I slip my feet over the bench and onto the floor once more. The rustic vibe of this place was everything, it fit well with the whole camp aesthetic. I headed up the stairs until something chilled my spine.

“[Y/n]!”

It sounded like an old lady, begging for help. But the voice didn’t sound distant, it sounded like an immediate whisper in my ear. But when I wiped around, nobody was there. I didn’t return the call and sped to my new room, closing the door and locking it with my key. I took a second to calm myself down, I was clearly just nervous, that's all. I went into my room again and saw that I didn't unpack my bag. I walk over to the bed and drop the bag on the floor, just looking for Pj’s to slip into and I can unpack tomorrow. 

The search for my pajamas found itself difficult, but I managed to find them. It was a plain checkered pattern, but it was in good condition. I lifted the bed blanket, and brought it over my shoulder, once my body was lying on the bed. With a nervous feeling boiling in my stomach, I close my eyes and await the sun shining for the next day. 

Chapter Text

Y/n | June 26th

~ 06:21 AM ~

Everyone was waiting outside, awaiting the bus filled with kids. Mr.H told us it was gonna be an exhausting day, all kids running around and definitely not respecting anyone’s authorities. The bus was nowhere in sight as we all waited impatiently. My heels got tired of staying in the same place and I made my way to Ryan. 

“Hey Ryan” I approached him. 

“Uh, hey?” he spoke with confusion at the sudden interaction. “What’s up?”

“Generally” I extend the word. “How many kids will we have?” I asked, intrigued by how the system of Hackett’s quarry works. 

He thinks for a moment and returns to me. “About…25?” He gauged. “It really depends on the year-” he stated as some rustling can be heard. 

“Alright Hacketteers!” Mr.Hackett caught everyone’s attention by his loud voice. We all looked towards the path and saw a yellow school bus coming towards us. It parked abruptly and kids came swarming out. They basically started running around, thankfully Kaylee and Caleb made sure to keep them in eyesight. It took ten minutes for all the kids to calm down. Mr.H walked up the stairs of the banister, getting a clear view of the kids and the counselors went underneath the banister, standing ways apart. Everyone was holding a poster with a number on it. 

I was given number 7. 

“Welcome everyone!” Mr.H started and all the kids cheered at the top of their lungs. “I know you're all excited to be here, but we have to go over a few rules before we start our season.” Chris stated, getting a couple groans from the children. 

Mr.H explained the rules and the kids were starting to get bored. But not long after that, the kids were formed into their categories. 

Since there was only one bus, there were fewer kids this year. 15 kids per counselors, seems more manageable. It took a little time for the kids to get their numbers from Kaylee and Caleb indicating which counselors they’ll be following. I glance at my group and they all seem to be relatively calm, can’t say the same for Jacob. His campers were already bouncing all over the place. I thought it was kind of funny, I haven't known Jacob for a long time, basically just met him yesterday, but it was easy to say that these kids are perfect for him. 

I pulled a little piece of paper from my pocket. Thankfully, Dylan and Kaitlyn were able to give us the schedule before the start of the day. The way Mr.Hackett explained was that we would all be exchanging groups of campers, and we would be running through the same activity over and over for the day. I honestly don’t know what I was expecting as a counselor. 

Some of the other counselors started yelling, gaining the attention of their camper, allowing them to follow. I decided that I didn’t want to scream, and apparently Abi & Ryan had the same idea. Abi had left with her kids speaking with a soft voice not long after Nick had and it was only me and Ryan left. 

Some of the campers looked at Ryan expectantly, and it looked like some of my campers wanted to be with him. Ryan then gave me a glance and looked at my campers. He silenced his campers and walked over to me, bringing his mouth up to my ear, his hand covering his mouth as well. 

“The one with the backwards cap, that’s Keith, he’s a handful and hardly respects anyone” He whispers and he gives me a sympathetic look as he backs away, leading his campers to the boat dock. 

I look at the kid he describes and he seems to be looking at me with beaming eyes, seeming to pay attention, oddly enough. “Alrighty campers, are we ready for your first nature walk?” I asked, trying to put emphasis in my tone to sound excited. Most of them groaned in response, some stayed silent and others clapped. I head the kids to the nearest forest and head down a path. I introduce them to rivers and some of the intriguing animals. 

They didn’t seem too fascinating and the kid Keith strayed from the path without my knowledge. 

“Excuse me, but Keith ran away” A little girl with pigtails told me, she must have been seven and already had great manners, I thought. I look at the group who all looked at me with eyes. 

‘Shit! Did I already lose a kid!?’ I thought in a panic as my hand hovered over the walkie talkie. I grip the top and glance down at it. ‘No! I can’t already be fired!’ I mentally prepared myself and walked through the kids, looking from left to right. The plane field was flat, thus he mustn’t have run too far. I turn to the kids ‘Do you guys wanna go into the forest and stray from the paths?’ I ask, trying to sound confident. They all yell their happiness. “Ok, but remember to stick together, or else we won’t be able to do this again” I said, pointing a finger at them. They all stare at my finger before nodding and some holding each other by the hands. I lead them inside the forest, and I'm calling for Keith every second I have, I glance at my schedule and get incredibly more nervous. 

I stare back at the kids who seem to be enjoying and even pointing out birds they have heard me say or others they have learned. 

Suddenly a scream from a little kid is heard until Keith is grabbing my leg. “Ah!” I squeak from shock. I knelt down to him, and cupped his face in my hands. “Keith, what’s wrong? Why are you screaming?” I spoke, checking him for injuries, yet, couldn’t find anything. He took a gasping breath as he shed tears, gripping onto my shirt. “I saw a ghost in the woods!” he explained, as other kids started chuckling, others, scared. I wipe his sweat with the sleeve of my shirt, and stand up after. “Everything is ok kids, probably saw a branch or something” I chuckle as the kids are still slightly frightened. I pressed a hand on Keith’s back and brought him back along with the kids, bringing him on the path. “It’s time for you all to go to the theatre” I said, as I led them to the theatre place where Emma will be taking them. I ponder the answer he gave me. there couldn’t be ghosts in the woods, and why did he steer off the path?

Y/n | June 26th

~ 11:58 AM ~

All the kids were inside for lunch, along with the other counselors and I pry Dylan and Ryan away. They were both surprised by the sudden grab, but didn’t try to fight it. 

“[Y/n], is everything ok?” Ryan said, crossing his arm with a calm look on his face. Dylan nodded and turned his face towards me. “You both have been here before this year correct?” I asked, gripping them by their arms. They looked at each other, “Ya, why?” Dylan answered. I look at them dead serious and say “Have you ever heard of a ghost haunting these woods?”

“A ghost!” Dylan said surprised. “What, were you spooked by one of your campers?” Ryan leaned against the wall and looked at me like I was foolish. “Huh? No!” I shake my head. “Keith said he saw a ghost in the woods, and I swear I heard an old lady whispering yesterday!” 

Dylan glanced from Ryan to me before planting his hand on mine. “Hey, I bet it was just his imagination” he rationalized.  I look at him and look at Ryan who’s flipping through his phone, with a confused look. “Ryan?” I peeked and ask. He glanced back up at me “Maybe some heard about the ‘Hag of Hackett’s Quarry?’” he said, showing the audio album of the podcast to me and Dylan. “But, it’s just a typical ghost story, it’s not real” He put his phone back into his pockets. He walked over to me and gave me a calm look, which I reciprocated. “Don’t worry about it, you're just anxious, but if you ever feel like it getting bad, come talk to me” He says. “Wait? Huh?” Dylan spoke, taking his hand off mine and looking at Ryan. Ryan shifts uncomfortably, “I…Mr. Hackett allowed me to take sleeping pills…they can calm you down” He said, blinking and bringing his eyes to the two people in front of him. 

Me and Dylan both looked at Ryan and I smiled warmly. “Oh, uh, thanks Ryan” I relaxed my face. “I'll be sure to ask” I chuckle as Dylan smiles. 

“Now! We should probably go eat before we have no energy!” Dylan starts to walk into the main floor of the lodge and places himself near Nick, who passes him a plate. Ryan was the next to leave and he headed for a table surrounded by kids and he sat down. All the kids seem to be really enjoying all the counselors, and I hope they feel the same for me. Granted, I did lose a kid a couple hours ago…but maybe the other groups liked me.

I take a breath from underneath the stairs and step out. Emma passes by me and gives me a smile. She hands me a plate, “Can you go bring this to Abi, please?” I grasp the plate and bring it over to the black haired girl. She seemed to be giggling with other kids as Jacob was in front of her telling jokes to the kids. I hover over her and place the plate on the surface in front of her. She lifts her gaze to meet my eyes and nods with a shy smile on her face, seeming grateful. I turned around and decided it’s time to get my own plate. I headed towards the kitchen area. Emma passed me and went to sit with Jacob and Abi.

The kitchen smelled great, and there was a bit of mess. ‘Guessing the kids had a class with Nick’ I ponder as I see two plates there on the floating island. I scan them and see one had less food than the other. I smile to myself and pick up the one with less food.

“Aw, how kind” a voice echoed from behind. I turned to face Kaitlyn, she was leaning on the door frame. “Unless, you were bringing that to me?” she pushed herself off and walked over to me, placing a smirk on her lips. 

I set my plate down and give her the plate with the most food. “Nope, this one is yours” I said, handing her the plate. She looks at it and then back at me. “Thanks”

Kaitlyn appreciates you

I took my plate back into my hand and exited the kitchen, she held the door open for me and we sat together side by side along with some kids. 

Y/n | June 26th

~ 12:45 PM ~

Mr Hackett walks up the stairs to get the attention of everyone in the lodge. “Alright Hacketteers! Lunch is over, you will be now paired with different counselors” he said pulling out a list out of nowhere…well, it seemed out of nowhere. He started naming kids, but when it came to naming counselors, we were paired. It wasn’t surprising, I mean, we did need to know each other better, but handling that many kids. I groan at the thought of it, until I hear my name.

“[Y/n] with Jacob” Mr Hackett looked down as mine and Jacob’s eyes met. The first idea that came to my mind was awful. He seemed like your typical jock and I just hoped he wasn't. 

All the kids met with their counselors and I walked by over to Jacob. “Well, Hello!” He said joyfully, placing one hand on his hip. “Hey!” I reciprocated his happiness. I pull out my schedule and….

“Archery practice!” Jacob yelled out loud as all the kids who were with us started cheering as all the others started to groan and complain. “Ever shot a bow before” I smirk, placing the folded paper back in my back pocket. He chuckles at me and raises his chin. “I have, so prepare to be left in the dust” he said confidently. We were the first counselors out of the lodge since the kids were basically pestering us to go. 

I was in front, leading the kids to the field, in the middle of the forest, might I add. Jacob was in the back, making sure no kids fell behind or ran off to do anything wild. 

We reached the archery field and a couple of targets were lined up, five to be exact. They were all spaced out evenly and there was a little surface of wood, seeming only a little bit higher. In that little cabin of sorts, there were arrows and bows all tidy in lockers.

I went over and opened the locker, and was met with dust in my lungs. I cough out and bring an arm up to my mouth, covering it. ‘Damn, someone hasn’t cleaned this place in years!’ I thought as I took out the bows and arrow which was also coated in dust. 

“Hey, you ok?” he asked, walking over. He must have heard me cough. “Oh, ya, i’m fine, it’s just hella dusty” I spoke, pointing to the locker and realising my hand from my mouth. “Oh” he spoke a little silly. He takes a bow from me and starts to shake it. I tilt my head in confusion as he seemed really stupid doing that motion. “Uh, what are you doing?” I was met with no answers. He stopped shaking the bow and showed it to me. “See! No more dust!” He said proudly, and he was right, it was spotless. 

“Ah! Alright Jacob!” I cheered for him, getting all the other bows and arrows out of the various other lockers. Jacob smiled brightly and held his hand out. “I can do the other one too” 

“Oh, um…I mean, if you want to?” I hand him another bow before placing the remainders below him, near his feet as he starts to shake the bow again. 

I walk over to the kids and almost trip on my way down the little edge of the cabin. I look at them all and ask for their silence. 

They all give me their eyes.

“Alright! So, this is archery, with real bows and arrows” I said as ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ were thrown around the kids. “You all have to be very careful. Now, I’ll assign you a number. It’s 1 to 5” I tilt my back as I see all five targets still intact. “You will line up and go one right after another. Once you shoot, you go to the back of the line, we’ll get the arrows after” I said, walking closer to the kids and assigning them all a number.

The kids all remember their number and head in position, some bickering about who’s going first. I went to go see Jacob and he was done with his unusual way of dusting. I give him a ‘Thank you’ nod and give one bow to each kid. However, there weren’t enough. “You two will have to share” I point to a black haired girl and a blond haired boy. I curse myself as I search around for a bow. I go into the back rooms of the poor excuse for a cabin and find a bow with a sharp edge, looking like it was used for hunting. 

Clue Discovered : Odd Looking Bow

[ A sharp bow, with some red paint on it. It looks dry? Why would Mr.H have this]

I take the bow from its hold and rub off the seemingly red paint. It seemed to stain my sleeve, but it peeled off easily after a few scratches, staining my nails. ‘Meh, I’ll talk to Mr.H about it’ I thought to myself, heading out of the backroom and seeing that all the kids were ready with their bows and hadn't shot a single arrow. “Alright Jacob, I’m ready” I hop off the wooden mount and get in front of the kids. Jacob peers and appears with a look of confusion. “Ready for what?” he said, straightening his back. “To beat you” I smirk. 

Jacob got giddy and laugh. He went a took two arrows from the quiver of a kid. Came back and gave himself one and me. I look back at the kids. “Now, when pulling on your bow, it’s important to have your trigger finger…or i guess, your string finger, and have it hoist over your shoulder, only slightly” I ordered, and placed my arrow on the string. I bring back my arm and lift it over my shoulder, to my jaw line. The targets were about maybe, 2.5 meters away, which, we would bring the kids closer. 

I take a breath as I shut one eye, focusing on the target. I let my fingers become more relax. I let go of the string in a smooth manner which seem to snap the arrow away. The arrow slid pass the wooden base and flew to the target. I kept my position until the arrow landed in the center, giving Jacob a cocky smile. I bring my hand, which was holding the base, and lower it, before extending my other arm, and bringing down as well. 

I look back at all the kids and they all stare with their mouth agape. Jacob chuckles as I hand him the bow.

“WOW! How’d you learn to shoot like that!” One of the kids was bouncing on their heel. I open my mouth the answer. 

“Aiye, I need concentration!” Jacob said, mimicking my motion and stabilizing himself. He took a breath and closed him, fluttering them open to give him a small window of view. As he let go of the string, the arrow slid past the base, but it shattered in his hands. Jacob immediately lets go of the bow, looking at the destroyed pieces on the ground. “What the hell!?” He gasped as I rushed over to him, grasping his hand. I examine it, “Does it hurt anywhere?” I asked, seeing no thorns of wood on his hand. He looks over at me and glances down at his own hand. “Ah? No, I don’t think so” He said, clearly unsure, but if he felt fine, then it should be ok. 

“Look!” One kid stated, pointing his arm out. “You got the center!” they exclaimed as Jacob looked over to where his shot connected, and there it was, dead center on a target. His face lit up, before resuming a calming air. “See, I told ya, in the dust” he said, his face approaching mine, snickering. 

Clue Destroyed : Odd Looking Bow

‘Hm? So much for asking Mr.H’ I thought. I look back at the kids, “Don’t worry, your bow won't shatter. This one was old” I reassured them as I went to go get the arrows from the two different targets and return them to Jacob, who returned them to the kid he took it from. 

I grip Jacob’s arm and I head for the cabin behind the campers. We watched them from behind, and most of them weren’t hitting the target. Some did, and rarely did some hit them exactly. 

Y/n | June 26th

~ 18:05 PM ~

We switched groups a lot during the afternoon, but me and Jacob found ourselves being extremely exhausted. So many kids had to be sent to the infirmary due to reckless behavior and we got a scolding from Mr.H. Jacob and I thought it was kind of unfair. Mr.H made us clean the dishes as a ‘punishment’ and thankfully, there wasn’t a lot. However, some of the substance on it crusted over, which made scrubbing it off tougher. We got out of the kitchen, and I had a big water stain above my abdomen. Jacob chuckled a little and then apologized. Kaitlyn walked over to us and pressed her hand on her hip

 “Did you lose a fight against the water?” She teased, bringing a smile to hers and Jacob’s face. I roll my eyes, “Hardy har har” I reply, gripping the hem of my shirt and glancing at the stain. “Hey, it’ll dry” Jacob spoke, placing his hand on my shoulder and quickly slipping it off to go sit next to Emma for supper. Kaitlyn follows him with her eyes but brings her attention to me once he’s out of sight. “You can borrow one of my shirts if you want,” She said, pointing her finger up the lodge stairs. 

I nod and smile warmly, and we make our way to the top of the lodge stairs. We pause at the door as she pulls a key from her hoodie, which I just noticed has a ‘Hackett’s Quarry’ symbol on it. She twists the key and the sound exits with a POP . She swings the door open and heads over to her suitcase. I take the time to glance around the room. There were plenty of rows of bunk beds but based on where the suitcases are, they decided to stay in one corner together. Kaitlyn seems to be the one who got to the bottom bed, alone. Abi and Emma were sharing a bunked together. Kailtyn comes back and gives me a translucent white shirt with a wide collar. “I’ll let you put it on” she said, walking over to the door and shutting it. I waited a while and I didn’t hear a locking sound. ‘Phew, she didn’t lock me in’ I thought to myself, letting a breath go. 

I take off my shirt and place it on the floor for the time being. I didn’t wanna get their bed wet. I slip the shirt over my head and fill the sleeves with my arms. I looked down and decided to only button one of the buttons on the shirt. I flatten the collar down on my chest and fold the sleeves to my elbow. I tuck my shirt slightly in my pants and smile at the outfit. I bend down to grab my shirt and then head to the door. 

I grasp the nob and open the door, stepping to the side while exiting as Kailtyn locks the door. She spares me a glance and her mouth hangs low “Wow! Look at you!” She said, smiling honestly. I blush slightly. “Thanks, you have fantastic clothes” I compliment as she crosses her arm confidently. 

Kaitlyn sees you as a friend

“I’ma go put my clothes in my room” I said, walking over to my room. “Oh, meet us at the campfire. We’ll be hanging around there” She said in a hurry, going down the stairs and leaving the lodge. I just realized that there was no one in the lodge except Kaylee, who was cleaning the plates left by kids on the tables. I headed to my room and hung my shirt on the base of my bed, making sure to not let it touch the bed in any way. 

I search through my bags and get a vest. I wrap it around my waist and close my bag, placing it on the floor once more. I go to the door and close it, locking, and heading to the campfire. I descend the stairs and give Kaylee a nod and she reciprocates with a bright smile. I exit the lodge and quietly close the door. I jump down the stairs excitedly and I see Ryan and Dylan down the stairs. 

“Uh, hey guys?” I spoke oddly and made my way down the stairs and walked up to them. Dylan turns towards me “Hey” He simply said. “We're ready to go” Ryan shot his thumb behind him and I nodded. “I could've found my way by myself” I chuckle a little. “What? Hate our company that much” Dylan teases, leaning his body towards mine. “No!” I laugh, pushing away. “Emma told us to wait for you” Ryan said, turning his head to face me and Dylan. “Aw, that's sweet of her” I sigh and place my hands together. 

Chapter Text

Y/n | June 26th

~ 19:37 PM ~

The three of us were supposed to make our way to the campfire, but, oddly enough, Dylan made us do a detour. We headed to the cabins, which was to the right of the firepit, slightly down a 10 minute road. 

“Why are we going there Dylan?” I spoke, Ryan beside, having one earphone in and one out. His gaze seemed to ask the same question. Dylan was gripping us by our hands, making sure we didn't run away. “You’ll see!” He chuckled. I questioned what the ‘thing’ we were gonna see would be, but knowing Dylan, I don't know what to expect. 

We stop in front of the radio shack and Dylan opens the door with a non heavy swing. The dust from the season before had settled down and only flew by the sudden gust of wind. He entered the radio shack and bent underneath the desk, getting something.

I took the chance and saw that there was a plethora of tools in the shack. I glance behind and Ryan seems apprehensive of going in. “Hey Ryan, not coming in?” I spoke, turning to face him, as Dylan brought a box on his lap. Ryan looks at me and places his phone in his pants. “Uh, shouldn’t we be heading to the firepit…They’re probably all waiting for us” Ryan said, scratching the back of his neck. 

“Ya, ya, hold on!” Dylan said, shuffling the box he had and bringing it on the steps up to the radio shack. 

I walked out the door along with him and bent over looking in. It was a box full of old CD’s and cassettes. Dylan lets the two of us have a good glance. “Now, these are old songs…but!” He points his finger. “I bet that there is some music you two like in there” He smiled shyly, closing the cabin door, but not locking it. 

“Why do you want songs we know?” Ryan asked, picking some CD’s and then setting them aside. “Got bored of Mr.Hackett’s boring song recommendations?” I chuckle, looking through the box. “K, when you go here for many years, they always repeat the same song. It’s time to change it up!” Dylan expressed his joyful attitude. “I hate to say it, but he’s right,” Ryan groaned. “Aye!” Dylan scoffed, pretending to be offended. He kneels down in front of Ryan. “Yet, you said I'm right…so you think Mr.H has some shitty song choices” Dylan looked smug and Ryan picked up a CD. On the plastic covering it had the words ‘Guns N’ Roses’. “Can’t go wrong with this” He held out the CD to Dylan as he gracefully took it. 

“And all that's left is you” He smiles, sticking his hand out. I searched through the box some more. I pick a CD out and confidently give it to him. He takes it and looks to see the writing. “Hm? ‘Queen’, great choice!” He said, opening the door and entering the radio cabin once more. 

Dylan appreciated your contributions

He places the two CD’s on the desk where old equipment seems to be lying. He turns back and heads towards the exit, closing the door, pulling his key out, and locking it.

“That’s all you needed us for?” I asked, standing back up, brushing my knees off. He nods, “I wanna play your guys favorite songs to start the day!” He smiles and starts to walk into the forest. I smile warmly and blush, Ryan’s eyes lighten up a bit. He took out his earphone, and left it hanging with his other one, over his shirt. We both catch up to Dylan. “Are you gonna play the other counselors fav music?” I asked, tightening the vest I had around my waist. He looked up, pondering for a second. “Uh, maybe?” He spoke non-chantly. 

“Wait, so you just wanted our favorite music?” Ryan said, questioning his motives. “mh hm!” he nods, “Well, fav out of that box” he quickly replied.

Ryan seems flattered

Y/n | June 26th

~ 19:57 PM ~

We finally arrive at the firepit with no additional detours and we end up sitting quite apart from each other. Ryan took a log that was alone, until campers surrounded him. I decided to sit between Nick and Jacob, and they didn’t seem to mind, even began conversations. Abi and Emma were talking, along with some campers. Dylan and Kaitlyn were also sitting together.

Multiple campers were between us, and some were sitting on the ground, staying far from the fire though.

“So, what are we waiting for?” I ask, facing Nick as a camper laid his back against the log, in between my legs. This camper had to be about five, which was cute. He looked up at me and his smile was bright on this dark night. “We’re waiting for Mr.H” He said, looking at the girls talking on the bench and turning his attention to me. I face Jacob with a knowing grin. He yanks my collar “Mr.Furcillo already has a crush” he whispers and I chuckle after. Only been one day, and already some feelings are developing. 

Nick seems to wear a pout on his face, probably over hearing our seemingly whispers. He rolls his eyes at us and our laughter dies down. “Speaking of crushes-” Jacob adds, swinging his arm over and connecting it with my shoulder. “Which one?” He simply said and Nick replied with a small smirk. “I’m sorry?” I was confused. “Dylan…or Ryan” Jacob points his finger at Dylan, slowly sliding it to Ryan. “I don't know what you’re talking about” I scoffed, bringing my arms together and crossing them. 

Jacob and Nick don’t believe you

I could tell by their growing smirk, they didn’t believe me. It’s not entirely a lie, every counselor was attractive. But I do think Dylan and Ryan are the handsomest out of all of them. they had a certain charm to them. 

“I smell bullshit,” Nick simply said, gripping his knees. “C’mon, which one do you prefer!” Jacob nudges my elbow in annoyance. “It’s only been one day!” I spoke, throwing my arms in the air. 

It didn’t take long for Mr.H to arrive along with Kaylee, but Caleb wasn’t there. Mr.H had to move around everyone to make sure the campers were all on logs, which led to all the counselors standing up. I decided to place myself between Emma and Nick, and we all just stared at the kids around the firepit, roasting marshmallows. It became long for all of us, so we ended up all talking.

The conversation flowed, and we talked about anything that came to mind. It came to a halt when a kid came walking up to me, handing a smores in his hand. 

“Here you go Mx. [L/n]” Keith stuck his hand out, giving me a smore. I gracefully take the smore from his hand, looking in his face for any kind of regret or doubt. “Are you sure Keith?” I asked, tilting my head, kneeling down a little. “Positive” He said, and walked back over to other campers sitting on the logs. 

I turn the smore around looking for any dirt, insect, or anything that would make the food disgusting. I found nothing of the sort and found it sweet and yet kind of suspicious. 

“Uh, what?” Ryan peeked out from the far end of the line, his face asking so many questions. “Keith gave you… a smore?” He quietly mentioned. Ryan makes his way over and takes Nick’s spot. “Ya!” I spoke, kind of ecstatic. “But…uh, nevermind. Glad he finally opened up to someone” Ryan crossed his arm, seeming rather contemptuous. 

I take a small bite of the smore. ‘Ryan’s right, he said Keith had trouble listening to authorities. But, maybe he was just that way with Ryan…mh…nah’ My train of thought kept trying to draw the conclusion of Keith’s odd shift in attitude. I wasn’t anything special, and I even lost him, I wouldn’t say that’s ‘Number 1 counselor’ behavior. 

I finished the smore, and it was really good, not to burn, but not raw either. The chocolate was rich, and the cookie was also really crunchy. My attention was brought to Mr.H as his footsteps slowly got quieter and quieter. He was walking away along with Kaylee and all the campers looked at us. I felt a bit anxious by their stares, all their stares. However, Ryan seemed to react quickly. He sat down on one of the logs and pulled out his phone, scrolling through a playlist I assume.

Dylan tiptoed behind him and peered over his shoulder, pointing to some on his phone. “It’s not scary, they’ll like it” I overhear his whispering. Ryan nodded and clicked on his phone. All the counselors took a seat and I decided to sit next to Abi. We sat right next to each other, campers scooting closer to us, as well as the other counselors.

I noticed that Emma was the one with the most campers around her. ‘Ms.Popular, even with the campers’ I thought to myself. She did have a comforting aura about her, you can tell her anything, and seems to give pretty good advice. From the little bits I have talked to her, which is not much, mostly nodding and stuff, she seemed really confident. 

Ryan takes a deep breath, and clears his throat, eyes focused on his phone. We all focused our attention on Ryan, some more than others. 

“Eversince Julie was a little girl, when she got scared she would put her hand under her bed and her dog would lick her hand to comfort her.” Ryan started. I quirk my eyebrow, since I’ve never heard this story. Some campers, the younger ones, seem to laugh a bit at the odd scenario he opened up on. “Well, now Julie was 14 and her parents were going out until late at night. Julie didn’t want to stay home alone but her parents told her she was old enough to stay home alone and she would be fine.” He continued. Abi grasped my hand tightly and I looked at her. I knew that campfire stories were gonna be scary, but Dylan precisely said it wasn’t scary. I reciprocated the gesture, not as tight though, and it brought a calm smile to her face. Some kids were holding each other's hand, others crossing their arms, trying to seem tough. 

“Well Julie’s parents left and, after an hour and a half of watching t.v., Julie went to bed. She was kinda scared, sleeping with no one home, when she heard a whimpering sound, almost like a puppy whining. She put her hand under her bed and her hand got licked.” Murmurs could be heard from the children as Nick reminds them to stay quiet, listening intently. “So she tried to fall asleep again. Then she heard it again, the whimpering sound, so she put her hand under her bed and her hand got licked. She finally fell asleep and was woken up in the morning to the sound of her dog barking in the backyard. He had been outside ALL NIGHT LONG!” Ryan put emphasis on the last words. Some children squealed, others seemed fascinating. 

“Wait! Couldn’t the dog just go outside during the morning?” A child said. “What do you mean?” Keith said, walking up to her and giving her a smirk. “Like, the dog would have still licked her hand, then went downstairs and got outside” The kid said bluntly. Ryan looks at her and chuckles. “You’re right, however, I don't have an answer to your theory” he said, putting his phone away. “It’s just a story” He stood up. 

“That wasn't scary at all!” Keith stuck his tongue out at Ryan. All Ryan did was roll his eyes, and he gave me a look saying ‘See?’. I stood up and walked over to Keith “I wasn’t supposed to be scary Keith” I placed a hand on his shoulder and he brought his eyes towards me. 

He placed his arms behind his back and nodded simply. Dylan started to laugh, trying to cover his mouth but failing miserably. Ryan shot me and Dylan glares, but took a breath and came back to his calm demeanor. 

“Alright!” Emma clapped her hands together, getting every children's attention. “It is already 9pm, so let’s get those butts in bed” She laughed, and we all agreed. 

We all made our way to the cabins, which was another ten minute walk, some kids getting sleepy. Getting them to bed wasn’t hard, they practically all fell asleep once they hit their beds. We made sure to all lock their door and check to make sure everything was secure. Mr.H told us that there weren’t any animals in these woods, but I had my doubts. 

We all got back to the lodge safe and sound. Emma and Kailtny went up to their rooms, Abi and Nick talked in the kitchen, Jacob, Ryan and Dylan all went to their room. I glanced around the lodge and saw that it was spotless. ‘Man, Kaylee keeps this place clean!’ I thought to myself, I head to the back of the dining room, to the old fireplace the lodge has. A bit of dust was coming down from place and I knocked it off as wind pushed dust. 

I headed upstairs and went to my room. The corridors kind of seem like they last forever, but I knew I didn’t. I open my door and close it, hearing a hush of a whisper, probably Abi and Nick. 

I go to the end of my bed, feeling the previously wet shirt. I smiled knowing it was dried, folded, and placed it in my wardrobe. I close my curtain and slip into my Pj’s. I find comfort in the bed and quickly drift off to sleep, seeing that time was 9:47.

Chapter Text

Y/n | June 26th

~ 23:12 PM ~

The darkness of the night comforting my peaceful slumber. No whispers to wake me, no noise to disturb my sanctum. 

“Truth or dare [Y/n]?” A chuckle came from the darkness. My eyes were shut, but the image was still visible. “I…I don’t wanna do this anymore!” The child whined out, sounding similar to my voice, but way younger. “Don’t chicken out!” Another girl complained, clinging her arm to mine, shaking it. “I’m not!” I seem to try to plead my case. “No, since you’re too scared to pick, I’ll pick for you” The picture became more visible. 

I was ten years old, I was in the middle of my fifth grade. I was having a sleepover with one of my supposedly friends at the time. It was pretty awful outside, it was thundering and lighting. There were four girls around my younger self. Amari, the girl who’s house we were sleeping over at. She had long dark hair, and brown eyes. Faith, a year younger than us, had light brown hair paired with brown eyes as well. Megan, blonde hair and blue eyes, your typical popular girl. And Maude, she had blonde hair with the ends dyed purple and vibrant green eyes. 

“I choose dare for you,” Amari said in a pitying tone. She places a finger on her chin, tapping it repeatedly. “What to do? What to do?” She kept asking herself. She took a view out the window and smirked, turning her face towards me. “Wanna take a little shower [Y/n]?” The question wasn’t a question. “Hey, it’s thundering outside” Maude tried to stop her friend from further action. “Shut up! It’s my house, so I get to control the rules!” Amari spoke in an awful way. She stood up and gripped my wrist. Megan got up and went behind me grabbing my other hand and placing it behind my back. She then covered my mouth, making sure no peep would come out. 

Amari quietly went down the stairs and unlocked her front door. Megan shoved me into the pouring rain. “Spend thirty minutes out here, in the rain! And you’ll be welcomed in my house again” Amari smugly closed the door. Faith opened the door and spoke, “You have to be on the lawn!” she laughed and closed the door again.

I remember exactly what my thoughts were. I didn’t wanna stay here all night, especially in the rain. Younger me made their way to the lawn and just stood there, looking down. Jumping at every sound, the thunder, the animals in the bushes. The rain was cold, and I remember hugging myself for a little bit of warmth. The most I could get with a tank top and long pants.

February, and it’s raining. The drops are basically freezing still the moment it touches my clothes. 

I walked over to my younger self and bent down to see their tears filled eyes. “Why?” They kept mumbling out. They were shivering, and I tried to place a hand on them, only for I to fade through them. I placed myself on the wet ground beside them and awaited the tragic accident that occured. 

Almost, for what felt like 20 minutes, the thunder and lighting became extremely rough, yet I chose not to move from the spot. The sound is getting closer, and their eyes are shutting harder. And just like that, in a blink of a second, lighting strikes the little kid. 

They fell to the ground, shaking and unconscious. A lady ran outside, screaming as she picked the child up, demanding the man behind her to call nine-one-one. Little girls can be heard mumbling and some covering the mouth in shock. I stand up and look at my young unconscious body in the ladies arm. I glance over to the little girls, Amari seeming regretful of her choices, Faith shaking and apologizing over and over again to no one in particular. Megan is smiling anxiously, uncomfortable, not knowing how to act. And Maude hurried over to the body, crying and helping them any way she could. 

The scene is swallowed with shadows and revived with the sight of a hospital. ‘Hm, I..don't remember this well?’ I thought to myself, peering the curtain and seeing my younger self, eyes closed, and badges around their neck and a bit of their chest. 

A shadow figure, assuming to be one of my parents, or family members at least. They were grasping my hand and pressing their forehead on the back of my hand. 

The curtain opened and the lady who carried me burst through the room, bringing her daughter along with her. All the three other girls had their parents with them, and all looked disappointed in them. 

The mother of Amari was Lani, she bowed her head and forced her child to do the same. “I am so sorry for my daughter's behavior!” She immediately said, The shadow figured let go of my hand and walked over to the mother. “I don’t know what she thought, making her friend do this,” Lani continued, tears sprouting from her eyes. The shadow figured spoke, but their voice was distorted, going from male, to female, to incomprehensible. 

The other parents all took their time apologizing and so did the kids. The shadow figure held their hand in silence to one pairing, Maude and her dad. Maude was thankful but still regretted not putting herself out there harsher, to stop her ‘friends’ from this idiocy. The monitors blared the time with its glowing light, indicating 2:47 am. And by looking at the shadow figure’s distress, I could tell they haven’t had any news from the doctor. 

Y/n | June 27th

~ 6:39 AM ~

I sit up from my bed, light pouring in slightly from the little crack that the curtains permitted. I rub my head and slide my hand down to the back of my neck. Nine years since that accident happened, and I thought I stopped having those nightmares. By a lucky miracle I survived, I don't even know how, and it did leave me with some issues…obviously.  

I throw my blankets off my lower body, shuffling to the side of my bed, and holding my head in between my legs for a second. I took a few deep breaths and looked up to a wooden wall. The sounds of my whimpers still rung in my ears, but I decided to face the day and got up.

I checked my dresser for anything that could shake the cold sweat and yet, I did have something. I wore a thin knitted shirt that my grandparents made for me. I slipped in on, and thankfully, my grandparents knitted me two, and I had brought the ones with no sleeves. 

I made my bed swiftly and headed to the door. I walked out and locked it behind. I went down the stairs and laid my head against the table. I tried to swallow the fear I felt during those times. I think back and wonder how I was so stupid for agreeing to go to the sleepover. 

“[Y/n]?” A familiar voice spoke, walking down the stairs. I straighten my back and twist my head. “Dylan?” I asked, and smiled crookedly. 

“Uh, whatcha doing up so early?” he chuckled. “You a morning owl?” He placed a board on the table right next to me. He threw his leg over the bench and sat down. “Not…really” I laughed to myself. I glance over to him and check his board. “Over to go make your morning announcements?” I point at the board. He picks it back up, “Oh! Ya” He simply spoke and a smile appeared on his lips. “You wanna come?” He asked, getting up from his seat and extending his hand out.

I look around and shrug, “Sure, I have nothing better else to do” I place my hand in his and we make our way to the radio shack. 

The walk was long, or it felt like it. Only the bird chirping can be heard. It felt nice to not hear children yelling for once. Couple days in and I already wanna go back home. He opened the radio shack door, and let me enter first. I gracefully took his action and entered, the dust from yesterday night gone. He closes the door and slips past me, sitting down in the chair and starting to flick equipment switches. 

“So, you just stay here the whole day?” I ask, walking closer to him, and crouching down to see what he’s doing. He shrugs, “I mean, sometimes?” he turns to face me. “Well, Kaitlyn and I thought it’d be better on Sunday’s to do the scheduling for the whole week. So most of the day we are here figuring it out” He chuckles and turns back to the equipment. “Huh” Was all I responded with. ‘Must be boring though-’ I thought to myself. 

Being cooped in this cabin the whole day, basically listening to the same song, would get on my nerves. 

He flicks a couple more switches and the speaker from up top screeches slightly. I block my ear and he chuckles, mouthing the word ‘Sorry’. He places a CD into some sort of player and presses pause before it could start. He checks his watch and waits for the time to hit 7:00 AM. He leans back in the chair. “Watch how the magic works” He said and clicked on the speaker, hoisting himself up and getting close to the microphone. “Rise and Shine Hacketteers, it’s time to face the day!” he said, his voice filled with excitement. “Now, a song to wake you all up, suggested by our lovely counselor [Y/n], ‘Somebody To Love’ by Queen!” He took his finger off the red button and pressed play on the player. And sure enough, the song started playing. 

I listened as the lyrics came back like memories. Queen is classic and it felt nice to give these kids culture. “Thanks Dylan” I simply said, glancing back at him. He turns around in his seat. “Of course, anytime” He smiles warmly. We sat in silence for a couple minutes, hearing the doors of cabins opening and closing. “Oh, well, um, I should probably get back to the lodge, heh” I awkwardly shuffle towards the door. “Oh, ya, totally, just um, remember to drop by sometimes, ya?” He fiddles with his fingers before looking me in my eyes. I grip the door frame and look back at him, “Of course, I’ll even bring Ryan!” I said and shut the door quietly.

I walk down the steps and I hear a silent ‘Yes!’ echoing from the radio shack. I giggled and quickly made my way to the lodge. 

I make my way to the lodge and enter the door with a creak. Nick was already in the kitchen cooking and it seems all the counselors were in the main room, just talking waitting for the kids to show. I walked in and made my way to Abi and Emma and they quickly added me to their conversation. I found it pleasing how quickly our relationships grew from not knowing each other, to easily making conversations. 

When Nick indicated that everything was finished, we all came into the kitchen and started placing plates on the tables around the lodge. I could see that Abi and Nick were talking and not ignoring her like he did. Abi told me that on the first day, when she said ‘Hello’ to him, he ignored her. Probably not on purpose. After yesterday though, they seem to be ok however. 

I heard from Emma that she saw him help a child after an ‘accident’ and that kind of set the deal on how Abi felt about him. Kind of fast if you ask me, but love is love. 

I finished placing the plates and Jacob came to steal Emma’s attention, like always. I glance at them and Kaitlyn walks up to me. “Are they dating yet?” She asked. “In fact, it feels like everyone is in love-” She plainly said. “If I can be honest, I have no idea-” I started and turned to her. “We know Abi like Nick and vice versa. Jacob likes Emma, but I can not read Emma at all” I said, looking back at Emma as she seemed to be giggling at something Jacob said. “Hm, well, not my problem” she spoke and shrugged. I agreed with her. “It feels like we're in a movie, y’know?” I commented. “How so?” She added, looking up at me. “Your typical movie…everyone falls in love” I spoke mockingly as she chuckled and nodded. We then continue to talk about some movies we found interesting or downright terrible. I never realized how much I have in common with Kailtyn and really need to talk to her more. I enjoy her company and she never fails to make me smile or set me straight. 

The happy time of talk came to a close as campers came rushing into the lodge, sitting down at random seats and started to devour their plates. I said goodbye to Kaitlyn and made my way into the kitchen. I decided to help Nick clean up, and Abi grabbed a cloth and helped as well. We scrub every surface twice and wipe off stains with more powerful swipes. 

After the cleaning, I head out of the kitchen and Jacob appears out of nowhere. “Hey Y/n!” Jacob held out a plate to me. “Saved ya a plate” He said and I grabbed the plate in his hand. “Oh, thanks Jacob” I smile warmly and just hold the plate in my hands. He looks at me, expectedly, and I glance to the side, awkwardly. He kept looking from the food to me, like a dog, or maybe I was just imagining. 

“Are you not hungry?” he said, bringing a hand to touch my arm. I look to where he placed his hand, “Oh, um, not really” I chuckle nervously. He tilts his head at me but sadly smiles. “Is everything ok?” He took his hand off my arm and placed his body in front of me. I bring my gaze to meet him and see his sad smile. I place the plate back in his hands. “Thanks for the thought though Jacob” I smile and bring my hand together in front of my chest. He looks at me, but ultimately goes back to his spot. 

Y/n | June 27th

~ 9:17 AM ~

I was on the island with the kids, accompanied by Mr.H and Emma, who was currently taking a splinter from a little kid’s finger. The walk to the ominous treehouse was chained with kids singing the Hackett’s Quarry song they learned the first night they were here. Also, apparently, Emma was teaching them with her theatre courses. 

“What’s this tree house for?” A kid perked up, twisting their head to Mr.H. He walked over to the house and opened the door. It was really empty and had a ladder leading up through a trapdoor in the end. The kids explore the small treehouse, not that there was much to explore though. I stood in the doorway and Emma behind me. She leaned her head on my shoulder. “Terrible place to get stuck” Emma added. I turn my head slightly, bringing my eyes down to only see her hair. “That’s what your mind went to” I chuckle softly.  She let out a small laugh and took her head off my shoulder and placed her hand on her hips. “Sorry” she said politely and slipped past me, entering the already crowded area. 

Mr.H rallied all the kids and made them go one by one up the ladder. He explained to be careful and to listen to every direction. I let Emma go before me and she gracefully climbs the ladder without any missteps. Mr.H helped me get on the ladder, unfortunately the wooden planks for said ladder were quite slim. I placed my arm above me, ready to push the trapdoor but felt no pressure applied to my forearm. I looked up and Erica, a small girl smiled at me. She was missing some of her teeth but she never let that smile go. I fully climbed up and thanked her, ruffling her hair, which I received with a little giggle. 

I looked around and found a box of ziplining straps in the corner of the room. It took a little more time for Mr.H to get up through the trapdoor, but once he did, he shut the door with a loud bang. I wiped his hands together, clearing the dust he could have accumulated through the climb. 

“Alright, Listen up Hakcetters!” He said, walking over to the door near the end of the upper floor. He opens the door, lighting the cabin. “Like I said, you all are gonna be ziplining!” He spoke and multiple kids cheered. We made sure before to not bring any kids with a fear of height. I slip past the kids and make my way near the zipline. I hover over the edge and squint my eyes. I looked for Ryan and Kaitlyn who were waiting on the main island, ready to receive the kids who were gonna be ziplining down. I give them a big wave and Kaitlyn reciprocates with less enthusiasm.

I walked back to the kids and Emm started tightening the harness around the children's waists. I went to the box, which was now outside and started helping her out. We made sure that the harness was extra tight so they wouldn't slip, there's water below them, but STILL.

All the kids were settled and Emma helped me with my harness, especially the behind. I did the same for her and we exchanged thankful smiles. We headed over the zipline and Mr.H asked one of us who wanted to give an example. I volunteered, lifting my arm like a little kid. Chris laughed slightly and motioned me to come up. I take my hook and hand it on the zipline. Chris picks his walkie talkie from his belt and calls in. 

“Kaitlyn, Ryan, are you guys ready?” He asked, letting go of the push to talk button. A monotone voice came through “Were ready” Ryan simply said. “Alright!” Mr.H said to the walkie talkie but looked at me. I nodded and checked my hook. I locked it and tugged on it slightly to check it safely. 

I take a swift breath and glance at the two counselors below and some kids. I walk over to the edge of the balcony with a wide hole. I looked below and gulped slightly. I take this time to look behind me and smile at the kids. Emma gives me a thumbs up and I smirk back to the lake. Pushing my weight off the edge and giving my security to the hook and zipline.

Chapter Text

Y/n | June 29th

~ 8:15 AM ~

The ziplining activities from a couple days ago kept running through my mind. I thought it was normal, but when I watched him catch Emma, it was clear…

“Hey, [Y/n], you alright?” Abi asked, placing her hand on my shoulder. My eyes perked up as I turned my face a little lower to see her. “Ya, I'm fine…” I bite the inside of my cheek. “You sure?” She continued, adding a hint of concern in her voice. I nod. We were leaning against the lodge walls, making sure no food fight happened like yesterday, as for other counselors, I'm unsure. Abi bounces on her heels as she slides her backpack from her shoulder. She unzips the top and pulls out a black sketchbook, she squints her eyes in front and starts to sketch in her book. “I always think the lodge is so comforting,” she spoke, drawing the base of the lodge. She was careful with every stroke and made sure to apply the right pressure. 

“You have serious talent Abi!” I hover, looking at her drawing. It was the base, but I could see the lively-ness in her art. “Oh, no, this is nothing-” she said, rolling her eyes, and glanced back at me. “It’s nothing compared to what…uh..” her eyes drift to the Australian who walked in with Jacob. His arms to his side as the jock brought him closer with his arm around the shy boy’s neck. I shifted my gaze to where she was stunned, I lifted my eyebrows and gave her a smug look. 

She was finally able to peel her eyes off the boy and looked at me. Her cheek rose and she started waving her arms in front of me, “Wait! No! It’s not like that!” she panicked. I chuckled slightly as I grabbed her arms, calming her down, “Abi, it’s alright” I smiled softly. She fiddles with her fingers anxiously, “You won’t tell him right?” she glanced at the seemingly interesting wall. “Nah, you don’t have to worry” I rub her back. She gives a big breath and relaxes, leaning into my side. I wrap my hand over to her shoulder, giving her a little side hug. She smiles warmly and closes her eyes. 

We stayed like that for a moment until she felt ok to pull herself away. “Thanks [Y/n]” she simply said and waved me off. I leaned against the wall for a little while and pulled out the parchment of paper Dylan had given me earlier this morning. 

‘Seems I'm just helping the other counselors..’ I thought to myself. There wasn’t really anything on my schedule, just a list and location of everyone else task, and what they needed. I scan all the items I would need to bring to them. ‘I guess, I am also an assistant counselor, so…’ I groan at the thought. I was about to fold the paper back until I spotted a little ou-of-place writing on the rim of the paper. It wrote ‘The radio shack doesn’t need anything! -DJ Dylan’ I chuckled a little bit and placed the paper in its designated area. 

‘Nice for him to tell me, I guess?’ I thought in confusion. I rest the thought as all the kids finish their meals. I saw Kaylee walking over to the tables and started to pick up all the plates. “Hey Kaylee,” I spoke, raising my hand. She glances up at me and smiles fondly, “Hey [N/n], oh, can I call you [N/n]?” she questioned, stacking plates one on top of another. “Of course, but, I was wondering if I could help you?” I tilt my head, taking in all the tables full of plates. Her face was full of confusion, “Don’t you have things to do though?”. “I’ve got a good hour until I gotta move, and I’d rather help you then sit alone in my room” I laugh a little at the irony. If I was back home, laying in my room would be all I would love to do. 

“Well, I don’t mind the extra help-” she smiled as she stood straight. “You can start wherever you want,” she smiles, bringing the plates into the kitchen. I took a breath and rolled my sleeves up, well, at least a little. Having a shirt that isn’t a long sleeve, nor a short sleeve, it makes it hard to roll my sleeves up. I look near the entrance where Kaylee had gone and catch a glimpse of a counselor looking at me before closing the door. 

‘Was that Ryan?’ I thought.

Ryan is surprised by your actions

‘Meh’ I simply shrug and start to pick up plates without getting maple syrup on me. These kids were really messy and I was so thankful that some children didn’t put maple syrup on their pancakes. The lodge echoes with a murmur of conversation behind a closed door. Mr.H had a meeting in his office, yet, the conversation seemed to grow heated. 

“Don’t worry,” Kaylee said, walking beside me. She continued to pick up some plates but her expression shifted, she looked more sad, but still had a smile plastered on her face. I gulp a little and return to the task at hand. I worried for Kaylee a little.

Y/n | June 29th

~ 8:48 AM ~

All the plates have been set aside the sink and Kaylee starts the sink, grabbing the sponge and slowly starts cleaning the plates. I go over and open a drawer, taking a rag out and started drying the dishes.

“Hey [N/n], an I ask you…an awkward question?” Kaylee asked anxiously, back turned to me. “Uh…sure!” I perked up, my full attention on her. She stays silent for a moment before speaking up. “I…might of heard you, Dylan, and Ryan talking the other day-” she stopped herself. ‘When?’ I think to myself. “Uh, sorry, but can you be more precise?” I asked, and awkward smile on my face. She takes a breath, and starts to scrub harder. “When you were talking about..ghosts” her face turns to meet mine. “Oh, you heard that-” my eyes widen. ‘I thought no one was there?’ I frown. ‘Unless Ryan told her…no, he wouldn't do that’ I shake that nonexistent scenario. “Um, I mean, I’m pretty sure it’s just my mind playing tricks on me” I ramble, drying the dish I held in my hands. She frowns a little and glances back at the water, “Ya..” she sounded sad. “Why…did you ask?” I place the plate on the counter, and grabbing another. “Huh! Oh!” she sounded surprised. “Uh, well, dad doesn’t want any rumours spreading. Y’know, this camp is his life” she explained in a panic. “Oh…I guess that makes sense..” I lift my brow, not totally convince, but decide to drop the subject since she looked uncomfortable. 

Y/n | June 29th

~ 9:18 AM ~

I looked at the clock in the kitchen as I ate a cut up apple Kaylee kindly prepared. I insisted she didn’t need to, but she persisted. “Oh shit!” I mutter, clasping a hand over my mouth, swallowing the mushed apple. “I gotta go bring some art and craft to Abi-” I dust the juice on my hand and exit the area, giving Kaylee a quick wave. She smiles and continues to eat the apples.

Kaylee appreciate the time you spent with her

I go over to Mr.H’s office and swiftly knock on the door. Some whispering could be heard and some shuffling as well. I waited patiently, picking my nail in the process. Mr.H opens a crack of the door, glances down and opens the door fully. “Ah, Hello [Y/n], what can I do for you?” he pushes strands of his hair away from his face. “Sorry to bother, but I was wondering if you could show me where the leftover supplies are?” I explained the best I could. He took a couple second to think, “Oh!” he looked back at his desk then back at me. He left his room and shut his door, locking it behind him. “Follow me” he happily said and led me out of the lodge.

We walked down the stairs and went under the banister, deep into the shadows. There, there were two giant metallic doors, he had a hard time to open them but when he did, he insured that I watched my steps. I walked down the narrow steps and a rancid stench infiltrated my noise. I pinch my noise close and scrunched my eyes, disgusted with, whatever gave off that odour. Mr.H turns to me, “Oh, ya, sorry for the terrible smell, I honestly don’t know what happen down here to smell this bad?” He pondered with a hint of dishonesty. “Anyway” he said softly pointing the a bunch of boxes stack on top of each other. “This is where all the excess of supplies went. Everything you, you can find it here” he smiles. “Again, sorry for the mess” he patted my shoulder. I walk forward towards the boxes and look at the tape plastered along the side of the boxes. Many of them were labeled for certain areas: Art & Craft, Drama, Kitchen. Some had supplies that weren’t accessible this year but I disregard that. I took the ‘Art & Craft’ box down from its Jenga tower, it was difficult, but I managed to not make it collapse. I take the paper from my back pocket and scan what they need. Mr.H stood behind me, standing off-ish, looking eager to get me out. I get the object I needed, which wasn’t much, crayons, paint brush, paint bucket, aprons, and some clear canvas (small ones). I stack them on top and look at Mr.H. After making sure everything was secure, I then grabbed an other box, well, more like Mr.H did. He gave the little box of props ontop of the big box of art supplies very carefully. “You good?” he asked. I nod as he leaded me outside. Once I had stepped out of the weird basement bunker, he shut the door and locked the handles. I gave him an odd look. “It’s to make sure the kids don’t get in there and create a mess” he said, placing the key in his breast pocket and patting it. “I’m sure you would hate to clean a big mess of supplies” he chuckles. “Ya…” I answered. We started as each other, he, more calm then I could be. He ushered me to get a move on and deliver the ‘goods’. I remembered that I actually had a job to do, so I rush over to the site as Mr.H’s words faded. I could faintly hear him repeat “Key in breast pocket, don’t forget”, I guess Mr.H has a bad memory.

Y/n | June 29th

~ 10:09 AM ~

I knocked on the Art & Craft cabin. One of the little kids opens the door, looking up at me I give her a quick smile as she lets me in. Abi was currently in the middle of teaching a class. I set all her needs on a table, moving some object slightly to make space. I fully stand up and actually take in the art cabin. 

It was a pretty tight fit, not much bigger than a regular cabin. All of the kids were patiently listening to her instructions. She gave clear instructions and helped some kids with the strokes of their pencils. It was very graceful, she made it seem like art was effortless. Some round tables were neatly placed around the cabin, but, it seems most of the kids result to sitting on the wooden floor to do art. As the kids were continuing their project, Abi walked over and peeked at the table full of material. 

“Oh, wow! Thanks a bunch [Y/n]” she clasped her hands together, appreciating my help. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, looking through the materials. “It’s not much, but, it’s what I had on my list” I pull my list out, and look over it again making sure everything was delivered. I cross off the objective with a pencil Abi had just given me. “It’s everything I needed,” Abi added, giving me a warm smile. “Oh! Before I forget!” Abi goes over to her little bag pack that was hung on one of the back of the chairs. She unzips the back and shuffles through it, mumbling to herself. She grabs a folded piece of paper and ushers me outside. 

She gently opens the piece of paper and gives it to me. "When I was making my way downstairs to the lodge early in the morning, this crumbled piece of paper was beside the trash can” she explained. “Guessing someone didn’t make it in,” she finished. I held the piece of paper and read over it. It was a list of odd names that sound like cringy song titles, or shitty youtube videos. I glance at the top after reading everything ‘Podcast suggestions for sleep’.

“Um, ok? Why are you giving this to me?” I ask confused, turning the piece over, seeing nothing on the back. Abi smirks and crosses her arms. “What?” I asked confused. 

Abi doesn’t believe your this oblivious

“Uh-huh” she snickers a little before thanking me and going back into the cabin. I looked at the paper confused and shoved it in my pocket. ‘With the amount of paper I've been collecting just in a small span-’ I was cut out of my thoughts as I saw Nick and his group walking through the forest. 

‘Do I have to give him anything?’ I think, trying to not get the list from behind. I shake my head, gathering the thought that I didn’t need to give him anything. I grabbed the box next to me, to which I didn’t bring into the cabin and was waiting outside for me. I take a deep breath and continue down the path to the theater cabin. 

Y/n | June 29th

~ 10:26 AM ~

The way to the theater cabin was not far at all. After all, Abi and Emma’s cabins were pretty close due to both of their aspects being in the same domain, ‘Art’. I got there to see some kids on a little wooden stage with little props and what looked like a sheet in front of them. I walk over in between the bench and sneak up behind Emma. I get down to her ear, “So what’s going on?” she yelped, falling forward slightly. I backed up, startled by her reaction, “Shit, sorry, didn’t know you were scared that easily” I apologized, placing the box on the bench and helping her up. She pouts, dusting herself off, and I just realized every kid was looking at me.

“Urh, I thought you were Jacob” She slaps my arm in frustration. “Is it better that it was me or not?” I chuckle, rubbing my arm. She rolls her eyes, crossing her arms, giving me a smirk, “I don't know” She looks me up and down. “How are you gonna pay me back for this?” she gestured to herself. I looked at her, and there was no dirt on her, or did she mean that I scared her. “Well..” I get the box behind me. “I got you new, and non-rusted props” I show the box and her eyes practically lit up, along with the campers. 

She rummaged through the box before campers could, holding up higher than they could. “Urh finally! I have been asking Mr.H since camp started” she complained and took out an odd object. Along with the complaining some kids were starting to grow impatient. “Miss Emma, can we get back to rehearsals!” one kid stomped their foot on the stage. I was a little taken aback by the kid’s attitude. “Hey, you aren’t gonna get what you want with an attitude like that missy” Emma whipped her head back and the child rolled their eyes and crossed their arms, tearing up a bit. 

“Look, thanks a bunch [Y/n], but I suggest you leave, before you get an ear hurting crying from this brat” she whispered and I could hear her annoyance in her voice. I gave her a little bow and bid her ‘adieu’ and left. I took a couple steps away and then I heard a loud crying that seemed to shake the trees. 

“Fuck…” was all I could mutter out after hearing that catastrophe.