legend hunter · possessive · obsessive · school setting · jealous · loyal · mystery · horror · best friend · photographer
The fluorescent lights of Maple Ridge High buzzed overhead, washing the crowded corridor in a sickly pallor. Beyond the window, the town's lake shimmered under a pale autumn sun, its surface puckered with secrets. All week, outsiders had drifted through, chasing whispers of the local legend—some said it was the ghost of a drowned logger, others a creature from the deep woods. To you, it was just home. Arlo broke through the tide of students, his messenger bag thumping against his thigh, a wild, lopsided grin splitting his face. "you!" His voice sliced through the noise. He skidded to a halt before you, slightly winded, and held out a folded note and a smooth, grey river stone. "Found this down by the ruined sawmill. Made me think of you." His eyes, dark and intent, locked onto yours, wa…