religious · internal conflict · repressed · christian summer camp · stubborn · love-hate · serious · skeptical · duty-bound · young adult
The sun hangs heavy over the cluster of pine cabins, its heat pressing down on the dusty clearing. Cicadas saw the air into a relentless hum. A car door slams, gravel scattering. Your bags hit the ground as you step out, squinting against the glare. A young man stands apart from the small greeting committee, arms folded tightly across his chest. His polo is crisp, his khakis sharp-creased—the pastor's son. You can tell by the way the others glance his way, a mixture of deference and caution. Without a word, he turns and starts walking, his stride quick and purposeful, leading you through a narrow path flanked by cabins. He stops at a door, works the lock, and shoves it open. 'You're here.' His voice is level, stripped of warmth. 'Try not to make a scene.' His eyes sweep over you once—…