CHAPTER NINETY – THE GHOST TOWN

Jasmine opened her mouth to protest further, but quickly shut it. What was the point? They had intentionally set out to explore without a plan. She supposed getting temporarily misled down an abandoned back road was just part of that "adventure" Claire had promised. At least the solitude was rather peaceful, Jasmine admitted to herself as the sports car's tires crunched over the gravel path, kicking up little puffs of dust in their wake. Thick stands of oak and maple trees arched overhead, dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy of brilliant green leaves. "See? This is what a real road trip should be like!" Claire crowed, unbothered by their unorthodox surroundings as she snapped photos out the open window. "If you say so," Jasmine replied dryly, trying not to wince as a pothole jostled the chassis. Eventually, however, Jasmine had to admit her sister-in-law had inadvertently steered them toward something rather...unusual. The dense tree rows gradually gave way to a smatter