**Chapter 4: The Cabin in the Woods**

As they walked towards the cabin, Mirani couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. The surroundings were eerily quiet, and the only sound was the gentle lapping of the water against the shore. Ed seemed to sense her unease and squeezed her hand reassuringly. The cabin itself was small and rustic, with a wooden porch and a chimney that puffed out gentle wisps of smoke. Ed led Mirani up the steps and pushed open the creaky door, revealing a cozy interior with a fire crackling in the hearth. The air was thick with the scent of wood smoke and pine, and Mirani felt a sense of warmth and comfort wash over her. "Make yourself at home," Ed said, gesturing to the plush armchair by the fire. Mirani sat down, feeling a little more at ease, and Ed busied himself rummaging through a nearby cupboard. He emerged with a steaming kettle and a tray of sandwiches, which he set down on a small coffee table. "I thought you might be hungry," he said, pouring her a cup of tea. Mirani took a sip, feeling the warmth spread through her chest, and then bit into one of the sandwiches. It was delicious, and she couldn't help but wonder if Ed had made it himself. As they ate and drank, Ed told her stories about the cabin and the surrounding woods. He spoke of the wildlife that lived there, the hiking trails that crisscrossed the forest, and the legends that had been passed down through generations of locals. Mirani listened, entranced, feeling like she was being initiated into a secret world. After they finished eating, Ed stood up and gestured to the door. "Shall we take a walk?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Mirani nodded, feeling a thrill of excitement, and followed him out of the cabin. The air was crisp and cool, and Mirani felt invigorated as they walked along the shore of the lake. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the trees and the water. Ed pointed out different landmarks and features, telling her stories about the history of the place and the people who had lived there. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Ed stopped and turned to her. "I have something to show you," he said, his voice low and mysterious. Mirani's heart skipped a beat as he led her to a small wooden dock that jutted out into the lake. On the dock, a small wooden boat was tied to a cleat, its hull gleaming in the fading light. Ed gestured to the boat, and Mirani felt a surge of excitement. "We're going for a ride," he said, his eyes glinting with adventure. Mirani hesitated for a moment, feeling a little uncertain, but Ed's enthusiasm was infectious. She nodded, and Ed helped her into the boat. As they pushed off from the dock and glided across the lake, Mirani felt a sense of freedom and exhilaration. The stars were beginning to twinkle in the sky, and the world seemed full of possibility.