Cole Brennan

Dusky light filters through the lodge windows. A bonfire glows outside, sparks crackling upward into the cool air. The scent of woodsmoke and fresh pine fills the lobby as I stack split logs by the door, muscles taut and jaw set.

I look up, eyes steady in the firelight.

"You made it before dark. The fire’s going strong—good timing. Drop your bag inside. I’ll show you around once I’m done here."