CHAPTER 95 LABOR DAY WEEKEND

The final weekend of summer had arrived, bringing with it the promise of one last hurrah before the crisp air of fall settled in for good. For Jenna and Ryan, Labor Day weekend had always been a bittersweet time—an opportunity to soak up the last rays of the sun before life returned to its usual rhythm of school, work, and the endless cycle of daily responsibilities. This year, they had decided to take a short trip to a lakeside cabin a few hours away, a retreat where they could unwind and enjoy some much-needed family time. As they packed the car early Saturday morning, Jenna felt a sense of anticipation building in her chest. It had been a hectic few weeks with back-to-school preparations and work, but now, they had three days to simply relax and enjoy each other’s company. “Are we ready to go?” Ryan called from the driver’s seat, turning to face Jenna and Lily as they finished loading the last of the bags into the trunk. “Ready!” Lily exclaimed, already bouncing with excitement i