Page 19 of Sins of Autumn

Ryan exhaled, glancing back toward the building.

“She came around the side while we were back there. Told Autumn she was ‘really pretty’ and then just… walked off into the field.”

Liza’s lips curled into a skeptical frown. “That’s weird as fuck.”

“You’re telling me,” I muttered, opening the car door and guiding Moose back inside. He hopped up onto the seat, his tail still low as he cast wary glances around the lot.

Daniella grinned. “Guess we’re off to a great start on our little getaway, huh? I love the suspense.”

“Not funny,” Cherish stated flatly. “People like that give me bad vibes.”

Ryan crossed his arms, glancing toward the gas station. “I don’t like it either. Let’s get out of here.”

As we all piled back into the cars, my gaze flicked toward the gas station windows. Two employees stood near the counter, staring at us.

Their expressions were blank, their movements unnervingly still.

“You seeing that?” I murmured to Cherish as she climbed into the driver’s seat.

She glanced toward the windows. “Yeah, I see it. We’re getting our asses far away from here.”

I settled into my seat, trying to shake the unease that had built ever since we pulled into this place. Cherish started the engine, and as the car rolled forward, I glanced back at the gas station one last time.

The final stretch of the drive was quieter. Trees lined the path on both sides, their tall, shadowy forms closing in as we ventured deeper into the countryside.

It was peaceful, and for the first time since we’d started this trip, I felt like I could let my guard down if only a little.

When we pulled up to the rental, my eyes widened. The place was stunning, almost surreal. Nestled on what seemed like its own little slice of paradise, surrounded by vibrant greenery, colorful flowerbeds, and rows of trees that made the entire area feel isolated from the rest of the world. I slipped out of the car and the soft crunch of gravel under my feet barely registered as I stared at the house, my gaze sweeping over the light stone walls.

“This is amazing.”

“You did good, Ella,” Cherish praised with a nod of approval as she took off her sunglasses, her grey eyes scanning the property.

Daniella grinned. “Do you think I’d settle for anything less?” she questioned, crossing her arms and looking at the house like it was her personal achievement.

Liza walked over to join us. “Alright, but are we sure this isn’t someone else’s fancy rental? Because this is giving serious‘we’re not supposed to be here’vibes.”

Daniella pulled out her phone, scrolling confidently. “It’s ours. Booked and paid for, down to the cleaning fee. You’re welcome.”

Cherish let out a soft laugh. “Alright, let’s unload.”

Moose hopped out of the car beside me, his stubby tail wagging as he sniffed the air. I clipped his leash on and gave him a quick pat. “Come on, big guy,” I murmured, leading him up the short path to the house.

The interior was just as breathtaking as the outside. Hardwood floors gleamed under the warm glow of recessed lighting, and large windows allowed sunlight to flood the space. The living room was cozy yet elegant, with a plush sectional, a massive fireplace, and shelves lined with books and trinkets.

The kitchen was modern, with sleek countertops and a large farmhouse sink that looked straight out of a home renovation show. A small welcome card was propped up on the counter near a wicker basket filled with local treats.

Welcome to your home away from home!It read in elegant script.We hope you enjoy your stay and find everything you need for a relaxing getaway.

“Okay, this is ridiculous,” Naija said as she walked in, her long locs pulled back into a loose bun. “This place is way too nice for a bunch of us to just crash for the weekend.”

“That’s the whole point,” Daniella said, setting her bag down. “Luxury, relaxation, and snacks.” She plucked a granola bar from the welcome basket to emphasize her point.

I shook my head at her and stepped back into the long hall that seemed to run horizontally to all the lower rooms.

Moose padded beside me, his massive frame practically taking up the whole hallway as he sniffed the air. His ears twitched, his keen eyes darting toward the staircase as if on high alert. With my bag in hand, I started up them, and Cherish followed close behind.

We went from room to room, skipping right past the master since it was going to Daniella. She had paid for this whole rental on her own despite our objections so it was only right.

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