Ablaze Spring 2025 2

replied, “That’s not it at all! I just want to have a good time with you all and I really don’t think it’s a good idea for you to be walking back by yourself. Stanley jumped in and said, “Sara, if you still are unhappy in a day or two and would still like to go home early, I can hike back with you and bring

you home.” Ann chimed in and said, “Yes, I will happily come with, but in the meantime, let’s just agree no more touching other people’s things.” Everyone silently nodded. Later that day, everyone sat around the campfire, overwhelmed with concern but silent. This supposed getaway was turning out to be more of a hassle than it was worth. As they sat around, they heard twigs snapping and what sounded like footsteps coming closer. Before anyone could speak up, a man came walking up the path. The man wasn’t carrying hiking gear, but was just walking up the path with a big smile on his face. Everyone in the group tried to pretend not to notice him, but he stopped in front of their campsite and looked at the view. As he did, he turned around and said, “Wow, it sure is lovely in this area, ain’t it?” Jimmy responded with, “Sure is, which is why we picked it.” Sara shot him a look, silently willing him to stop. The man asked them how long they were going to be camping for, and Jimmy again replied, “A week.” The guy said, “Well, it was nice talking to you and seeing some happy faces, but be careful: there can be some real weirdos out here.” They all said thanks and wished him luck on his journey, except Sara. Sara couldn’t have been happier to see him leave. After everyone settled down, Stanley and Ann decided to make dinner that night. Ann thanked Stanley for calming the situation and volunteering to take Sara back if she didn’t feel better later. He told her it was no problem

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