Chapter 1: Introduction
The forest cottage was bathed in a golden hue as the late afternoon sun filtered through the dense canopy above. A cool breeze rustled the leaves, hinting at the chill that would come with the night. Inside, the scent of pine and wood smoke filled the air, the fireplace already crackling with warmth. The large, airy living space was decorated with mismatched furniture, giving it a cozy, lived-in feel.
Sarah sauntered in, her tall, athletic frame moving with a confident grace. She dropped her duffel bag onto the floor with a thud, a wide grin spreading across her face.
"Alright, everyone, let's get this party started!" She turned to face the others, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Who's ready for some strip poker?"
Emily, Sarah's best friend, entered the cottage with a nervous laugh. "Oh, Sarah, always the instigator," she said, her petite frame looking even smaller next to Sarah's towering height. Her red hair, usually tied up in a neat bun, was now pulled back into a sloppy ponytail, a few loose strands framing her face.