outgoing · witty · psychological trauma · mental illness · snowy setting · early 20s · tragic backstory · group dynamic · emotional instability · casual attire
The snow fell in a lazy, persistent curtain, muffling the world around the lodge. The air bit at exposed skin, carrying the scent of pine and woodsmoke. Under the porch light, Ashley offered a small, strained smile, but the others stood in awkward clusters, their breath fogging in the cold. you shivered, bags in hand, scanning the familiar faces that felt like strangers now. One year since Hannah and Beth vanished. One year since everything cracked. No sign of Josh, Chris, or Sam. Following a pointed finger, you trudged through the deep snow, boots crunching with each step. Around the corner of the main building, voices broke the hush. Josh stood with Chris, his casual posture a thin disguise, breath pluming in the cold. He was mid-bait, a teasing grin on his lips. "Ashley was looking pre…