Mysteries of Sparrow Lake Camp

Chapter one

"Wake up!"

"Five more minutes," I mumbled, pulling the blanket over my head.

"Five more minutes? You've been saying that for the past half hour! The sun is up, and so should you be," Mom replied, her voice playful yet firm.

I peeked out from under my covers, squinting at the bright light shining through the window. "But it's summer! Can't I just sleep in a little longer?"

Mom chuckled. "Not if you want to make it to Sparrow Lake Camp on time. Remember, breakfast is in ten minutes, and you don't want to miss out on pancakes."

The mention of pancakes made something in me wake up and made it a little harder to resist. With a resigned sigh, I sat up, the cool morning air brushing against my skin. "Okay, okay, I'm up. But only because of the pancakes!"

I swung my legs over the side of the bed and rubbed my eyes, still trying to shake off the sleep. "What time is it, anyway?"

"Almost seven," Mom answered, glancing at the clock on the wall. "Your sister leaves for her camp at eight, so you'll have to say goodbye before you get ready."

I felt a bolt of excitement mixed with a hint of sadness. My sister, Dominique, had been counting down the days until she left for her camp. It was her first time going to a camp, and I knew she was looking forward to it. But I couldn't help feeling a little abandoned. I mean, she was off on her adventure, and I was just starting mine later in the day.

As I walked to the bathroom, Mom called after me, "Don't forget to give her a hug before she goes! It's a big deal for her."

"Yeah, yeah," I replied, brushing my teeth. In truth, I thought a hug would be nice, but knowing Dominique, she'd probably just roll her eyes and tell me to stop being so weird. She was always the brave one, ready to take on the world, while I was still figuring things out.

After a quick shower, I threw on some clothes and headed downstairs. The smell of pancakes filled through the air, making my stomach growl. I spotted Dominique sitting at the table, her backpack beside her, already packed with all the essentials."Hey, are you ready for your big adventure?" I asked, trying to sound intrigued.

"Yep. Just checking the camp schedule," she replied. She stood up, slinging her backpack over her shoulder. "Okay, I've gotta go."

I moved forward to give her a quick hug, but she barely returned it, giving me a light pat on the back instead. "See ya!" she said, already heading for the door.

"Bye, Dominique!" I called after her, feeling a mix of pride and a little disappointment. I watched as she disappeared down the steps, ready to embark on her own adventure, while I still had a few hours until mine began.

With a sigh, I turned back to the table, where Mom was dishing out pancakes. "You'll have your turn soon," she reassured me, sensing my mixed emotions.

"Yeah, I know," I said, forcing a smile as I sat down. "But I still miss her already."