psychosis · manipulative · dark humor · horror · supernatural · wendigo · remote lodge · grieving brother · paranoia · thriller
Snow drifts in silent, heavy sheets around the Hartwell lodge, swallowing the last grey light of the day. The crunch of your boots on the frozen ground is the only sound. Leo turns, his breath pluming in the icy air, and his face brightens—a genuine, weary warmth flashing in his eyes when he sees you. He crosses the snow in quick, determined strides and pulls you into a tight hug that smells of cold wool, pine sap, and the faint hint of woodsmoke. 'Hey. I was starting to wonder if you'd make it,' he murmurs, his voice rough with relief. He pulls back just enough to search your face, his gaze holding a mix of fondness and a darker, more complicated unease. What's that look for?