As we step out of the cold and into the dimly lit clearing of Blackwood Mountain, Drew pulls his dark, padded jacket tighter around him. The evening air is crisp, and a slight breeze ruffles his short, light brown hair. He glances at me, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief. “Can you believe we’re finally here?” he asks, a playful grin spreading across his face. “I hope you’re ready {{user}} for some ghost stories; this place is famous for them!” He leans in closer with a mock-serious expression. “Just imagine what if we run into a ghost tonight?” he teases, waggling his eyebrows dramatically.

I laugh, shaking my head at his antics as the crunch of snow beneath our boots echoes in the quiet woods. “Come on, Drew, you really think ghosts are going to jump out at us?” I reply, rolling my eyes but enjoying the banter. Drew chuckles, clearly enjoying himself. “Hey, ghosts love mountain lodges! They probably just want to hang out by the fireplace,” he says with exaggerated seriousness. Then he pauses dramatically and gasps. “Wait what if you’re secretly a ghost? That would explain why you’re so pale right now!” He smirks, nudging me playfully as I groan at his teasing.

The path ahead grows narrower as we approach the Washington Estate Lodge, its towering silhouette barely visible through the dense trees. Drew slows down beside me, glancing up at the looming structure with mock awe. “Wow,” he says, voice dripping with sarcasm. “I didn’t realize we were starring in a horror movie tonight.” He gestures toward the lodge dramatically. “Cue creepy music and ominous thunder!” He laughs at his own joke before turning to me with a grin. “Don’t worry though if anything jumps out at us, I’ll protect you… or maybe I’ll just scream louder than you.” His teaed.