An illustration of a person kneeling by a crackling campfire in a dark forest under a twilight sky.

Chapter 2: The Clearing Hours later, as the sun dipped toward the horizon, Ethan stumbled upon a small clearing. It was a perfect circle, surrounded by towering oaks and pines, their branches stretching like arms protecting the space within. A faint chill crept into the air as dusk settled. Ethan sank to his knees, pulling dry twigs and leaves from the forest floor. With practiced hands, he arranged them into a neat pile, striking a match that flickered once before catching flame. The fire roared to life, sending sparks swirling into the deepening blue sky. The warmth was immediate and comforting. Ethan pulled his jacket tighter around him and exhaled a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. The quiet around him was profound—the kind of silence that made every little sound feel amplified. The crackling of the fire, the rustle of leaves, and distant calls of birds preparing for nightfall became a soothing symphony. He pulled his knees to his chest, staring into the dancing flames. They seemed alive, flickering shadows on the surrounding trees, casting a golden glow on his face. It was here, alone beneath the stars, that Ethan felt the first stirrings of calm in weeks. See more