Page 192 of Lost in the Dark

"No, I meant… Never mind." I increased my pace. She would never understand the ins and outs of our company from one evening, or even an entire week. Greer Group was all about pushing through, even when it made zero sense. Not that I was about to say as much to Clarissa. It was better if I just kept my head down and not bad mouth anyone, just in case it found a way back to my boss. "I'm sure it'll clear up soon enough."

"This way," Clarissa said, leading me off the main path.

It felt like we'd walked the length of the retreat by this time, passing other cabins, some lit up, some already dark. This path was gravel, but grassy, as though it needed some weeding. But the sweep of tree branches overhead and the gentle cry of birds made the separation soothing, rather unnerving. After being stalked by Karl for a week, the sensation of being alone was welcome.

"I'm sorry, but because of numbers, we've had to use all of our cabins, and this one is due for replenishment. We've left you some extra goodies by way of apology." She gave me a little wink, and I had a feeling that I was going to enjoy whatever perks they gave me.

The cabin came into view then, solar lights flaring in the darkness. The resort had hung strands of tiny fairy lights in loops from the roof of the covered deck area, illuminating a comfortable looking chair swing with a table just large enough to hold a glass or mug, a plate of goodies, and a book if I had time to park up there sometime when it wasn't raining.

The door was pale blue with a stained-glass window depicting a red rose with lush green leaves. The lights glimmered off the surface.

"Here's your key," Clarissa said, handing me a white envelope. "There's also a map and other information in there. If you need anything else, please don't hesitate to contact us at reception."

"Thank you," I said. I took the envelope, appreciating the silky feel of it. Quality stationary was a secret love of mine, though not something I could typically afford. Then I waited as she turned down the path before I sliced open the envelope with a nail and tipped the contents into my hand.

The key was a regular door one, no fancy cards or fobs like the main buildings had suggested there would be, but I slid it into the lock and twisted, pushing open the door to enter my home for the week. I felt around for the light switch, and when they snapped on, I was pleasantly surprised.

Despite what Clarissa had suggested, this was no budget school camp cabin. It was bright, with fresh white walls and a ceiling of what looked like cedar planks. I couldn't imagine anyone being mad about this place. But then, maybe the other cabins were next level amazing, and this was slumming it by their definition.

Which might have offended someone else, but not me.

There was a kitchenette with wooden cabinets and counter, on top of which sat a giant basket full of goodies. On top was a note that said 'The Nest, where you find what you need.' Must be their motto or something.

I traced the lettering, and a tiny thrill traveled up my arm.

I locked the door and left my luggage beside it as I explored.

The cabin had me gasping with delight at every turn. The fridge had wine and chocolates, and there was even some high-end ice cream in the mini freezer. The bathroom was stocked with expensive toiletries, and I knew for sure that they were going to be finding their way into my bag before I left this place.

And the bed! When I threw myself on it, the mattress cushioned me and the quilt felt buttery soft against my skin. It made me want to strip naked right then and slip between the sheets, because I’d bet they were the nicest sheets I'd ever experienced.

Sure, there was a little peeling paint on the trim, and I could hear the wind rattling the windows. There might not have been any insulation in the ceiling either, because the sound of rain on the tin roof was loud and drowned out almost everything else.

But I didn't care. It was exactly the rustic charm I loved, and the touches of luxury more than made up for any inconvenience. Hell, if I could give up my shabby room in the women's refuge and move here permanently, I'd be more than happy. I'd be in heaven.

For people like me, this was about as good as it got.Better.

I slid my hands behind my head and stared up at the ceiling, a huge grin on my face. I was tucked away from the rest of my coworkers, and Karl had no idea where I'd gone. I was going to sleep well tonight. Hell, the dreams that plagued my nights might not find me here.

Just then, a loud hoot cut through the peaceful sound of the rain, and then another. What on earth were owls doing out on a night like tonight?

I dragged the pillow over my head, but even that didn't mute the sound.

Dammit.

There's no way I'd let a bunch of owls deny me the best sleep I'd have in months. Tossing off the covers, I marched out the door and down the short flight of steps, ignoring the rain as I scoured the ground for small rocks. I found a few and tossed them at the trees.

"Shoo! This girl needs her sleep," I shouted at the birds. I couldn't see them, but they were still making the same noise. I moved further away from my cabin, catching my toe on another rock. It was bigger than the last ones, yet still small enough for me to throw. I pulled my arm back and pitched it high.

The sound of the owls stopped.

But it was replaced with the shattering of glass.

Oh, shit. My mouth dropped open, and I glanced around, hoping that no one had seen what I'd done. It was too dark. I had no idea what I'd broken, but I rushed back inside and hoped that no one could pin it on me.

I could not get in trouble already.

Burrowing deep under the covers, I closed my eyes and promised myself the nightmares would stay away…