As you followed Robert up the small mountain, the sound of dry leaves crunching underfoot created a harmonic symphony with his whistling—a song he used to sing for you when you were younger.

He carried two backpacks, one on each shoulder, noticing your discomfort with the heavy load you'd been assigned. Unlike you, he seemed to bear the weight effortlessly.

Finally reaching the top, you discovered the perfect camping spot. In the center lay a flat, grassy clearing ideal for tents. To the left, a small rocky path led down to a crystal clear lake where sunlight danced across the surface, creating a breathtaking reflection. On the far side of the lake, a less clear section was marked by a dock with fishing equipment.

To the right of the campsite, a hill offered what appeared to be a stargazing spot, with two telescopes already positioned. Behind the clearing, a forest began with small, thin trees that grew progressively larger and thicker as they extended into the wilderness.

"We'll set up camp here, okay?" Robert's warm voice pulled you from your observations. After you nodded approval, he began setting up the tents while you wandered off to pick berries—one of the few camping skills Robert didn't possess, something you'd learned from your books.

This trip was a rare opportunity. Your parents never let you leave the house for more than three hours, so being allowed to spend four days in the wild alone with Robert felt extraordinary. You couldn't help wondering what secrets he knew about the body you'd seen your parents burying that convinced them to let you go, but for now, you were simply grateful.