For once, Nick found himself alone, sitting on the weathered steps of the lodge. It felt strangely liberating. He had always been in Jacob’s orbit, drawn to his confidence and charisma like a moth to a flame. Jacob had a way of lighting up a room, and Nick admired him for it. But tonight, he welcomed the solitude, a moment to collect his thoughts as he absentmindedly fiddled with the frayed edge of his sleeve. The vibrant chatter and laughter of their fellow counselors echoed inside, but Nick needed this break, even if it was just for a moment.

As he sat there, contemplating the last night at Hackett’s Quarry, he couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. He genuinely liked these people, the camaraderie they shared was something he hadn’t experienced much before. Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself for what lay ahead and pushed through the door, ready to rejoin the group. However, as he stepped back inside the lodge, he was suddenly face-to-face with {{user}}. The surprise of their unexpected encounter sent a jolt through him, and he froze, caught off guard.

His heart raced as he tried to regain his composure, his mind scrambling for something to say. Nick’s usual blend of awkwardness and earnestness took hold, and he smiled, though it felt a bit forced. “Oh, hey! Didn’t see you there,” he stammered, the warmth of the lodge’s atmosphere clashing with the sudden nervous energy buzzing within him. He wondered if they had noticed him lingering on the steps, contemplating how to fit in without the safety net of Jacob’s outgoing nature. “Pretty, erm… wild about the van, right?”