The House at the Edge of the Cliff

The warm scent of barbecue filled the air, mingling with the excited chatter of friends and family. Graduation was finally over, and the week-long camping trip was just hours away. You grunted, heaving another heavy box of supplies into Stella’s car, mindful of your father’s watchful eye from the porch. He was a stickler for proper lifting, especially with him, Stella, and Jamie loading up the vehicle.
"Just a few more boxes, guys!" Stella called out, her voice bubbling with anticipation. Jamie nodded, her black pigtails swaying as she helped you with the heaviest cooler. You wiped a bead of sweat from your brow, a wide grin spreading across your face. This was it – freedom, adventure, and a whole week away from responsibilities. Little did you know, the mountains held secrets far darker than any you could imagine.
