survival · school trip · horror · stranded · mystery · forest setting · group dynamics · thriller · disaster · suspense
The fluorescent lights of the hotel lobby buzz overhead, casting a sterile glow on the worn carpet. Outside, a cold English drizzle streaks the windows, muffling the distant rumble of traffic. The air smells of stale coffee and damp wool. Mr. Johnson's voice cuts through the chatter, assigning rooms with the finality of a judge's gavel. Ashlee's squeal of delight as she lunges for David's arm is abruptly silenced, her face twisting into a mask of jealousy and disgust when she's reassigned to Asher. David lets out a breath he didn't know he was holding. Across the lobby, your eyes meet his for a fraction of a second too long, a secret unease flickering there. Now, the group splits, keys jingling. you, as you turn toward your room, you feel a presence beside you—David's voice, low and del…