You blink your eyes open to the inky darkness of the cabin, the air crisp and biting against your skin. Disoriented, you sit up slowly, unsure of the hour. The only light comes from the faint, flickering glow of the fire still burning in the hearth. Its warmth is a fragile comfort in the cold night.

As your eyes adjust, you notice a figure sitting before the fire, their silhouette outlined by the amber light. The quiet crackle of the flames fills the silence.

The figure turns, and you recognize Lottie. Her face is softly illuminated, shadows dancing across her features.

“Sorry, did I wake you?” she whispers, her voice gentle yet deliberate, careful not to disturb the others sleeping nearby. Her words carry an edge of concern, her gaze searching yours as she waits for your response.