Page 6 of Wanderlust With Wolves

“Good, because itis.” I step forward, trying to take it all in. “This isinsane.Igetto stay here?”

The A-frame cabin is straight out of a nature-lover’s fantasy—all dark wood and modern rustic elegance, tucked along the edge of the lake like it grew straight from the earth instead of being built. Floor-to-ceiling windows reflect the shimmering water, and a wraparound deck stretches over the shoreline, complete with Adirondack chairs, a cozy outdoor firepit, and a hanging swing that I already know will be my new favorite place to drink coffee in the morning.

“Not bad, right?” Luna grins, clearly pleased. “We like to do things right in Avalon Vale.”

I’m about to agree when I see something—movement—in the water.

A ripple.

Something—orsomeone—gliding just below the surface, cutting through the lake like a predator.

I freeze. “Uh, Luna?”

She follows my gaze. “Mmhmm?”

I squint. “Are those?—?”

“Sirens,” she says easily, like she just told me they were fish. “Not mermaids.”

“Oh.” I nod slowly, watching as one of them tilts their head just above the waterline, glowing eyes locking onto mine from across the lake.

A slow, knowing smile spreads across their lips before they sink back into the depths, disappearing like they were never there.

Not ominous atall.

Luna smirks. “You’ll be able to tell the difference soon enough.”

“That’s… notentirelyreassuring.”

She laughs and pivots. “So! You need any hookups for your van?”

It takes me a second to process the topic change. “Huh?”

“For your van.” She gestures to a sleek utility station, blending so well into the landscape that I hadn’t even noticed it. “We’ve got water and power if you need ‘em. I know you’ll be staying in the cabin, but you’re our first official guest at the glamper-grounds, so I want your feedback.”

“Oh! Yeah, water hookups would be great. Not that Ineedthem right now, but it’s good to have options.”

“Perfect.” She shows me how to use them, double-checking everything works smoothly. “If you have any issues, let me know. Seriously. First guest and all that.”

I nod, appreciating her enthusiasm. “Noted. Happy to be your guinea pig.”

“Great! Now, since you’re here…” She tilts her head, something mischievous in her expression. “Ihaveto invite you to our Sweetheart Wilds Festival.”

I arch a brow. “Thewhatnow?”

Luna’s tail flicks behind her. “It’s our version of a Valentine’s festival. Rustic charm, old-world traditions, a little matchmaking, and alotof fun.”

“Matchmaking, huh?” I smirk. “You saying I need help in that department?”

Luna grins, eyes twinkling. “I’m saying you’d havea lotto write about.”

Okay.Nowshe has my attention.

“True.” I purse my lips, considering. “I mean, Iampart of the travelogue and blog world. And this? This woulddefinitelybe a story.”

Luna winks. “Exactly.”

Inside the cabin,I kick off my boots and take my first real look around.

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