In The Shadows of the Pines

By Hye Zahid

Five friends arrived in Pinewood Forest for a weekend escape at an old cabin. As night fell, Mark, Zoe, Ethan, Mia, and Jake gathered around the fireplace, laughter masking underlying tension. That night, they played "Truth or Dare," where Mark confessed his crush on Mia, and Zoe shared personal struggles. Jake's dare to explore the woods alone raised concern when he took too long to return. When he finally returned, he was shaken, claiming to have seen a shadowy figure. The next morning, the group discovered an abandoned campsite, heightening their anxiety. Back at the cabin, they found the door ajar and Mark's watch missing, fracturing their trust. Mark accused Ethan of a prank while Zoe defended him, leaving Mia in the middle. Panic set in when Ethan didn't return after stepping outside. Mia found him dead at the base of a tree, leaving them confused and horrified. Determined to uncover the truth, they realized each held critical pieces of the puzzle. Mia revealed she had an affair with Ethan, which ended when she fell for Mark, igniting accusations, especially when Zoe confronted Mark about jealousy. A local ranger then appeared, confirming Ethan's Death, but noted someone lurking nearby. As they left, it was clear their friendship had changed forever. Yet, amidst the chaos, they committed to sharing their stories beyond Pinewood Forest, driving away and leaving the cabin's secrets behind

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0F83T63ZX
• ISBN13: 9798282810158
• Release Date: May 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 180 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"