A town named Winter

Ryan

I briskly tread much way back to our makeshift campsite. Jake is on my heels.

"Do you think we'll find Todd tomorrow?"

I hear Jake's voice behind me and jump slightly. This whole ordeal has put me on edge. I calm my frantic heart for a moment before answering.

"I'm not sure dude. You sound pretty scared though. You know, for someone who just tried to scare us all yesterday."

"I already told everyone that it wasn't me. Don't even trust your best friend?"

I turned to face him. The other group still a ways behind us. I deadpan look at him.

"I saw you put the red paint in your bag before we left. We share a dorm idiot."

Jake looked serious for a minute then the curtain dropped as did his facade. He smirked and the tension in his mouth shows his attempts to hold in laughter. I don't let any amusement leak into my features.

"I know you man. If you have anything to do with this, I will string your neck."

Jake got serious again very quickly.

"I had nothing to do with this one dude. I had something else in mind tonight and it wasn't that. I think you're just mad that you got caught with Alex earlier and fucked up your chance of getting laid this trip."

The group is catching up on us. I don't want any of them overhearing this conversation. I glance over at Alex. She's already looking my way. Her eyes have a fear in them. I'm not sure if it's from Todd disappearing or from me.

I hope it's because of me.

I will have to get her alone. I still have time.