"It's all here, folks. You'll find everything you'll need to assist you in eating your feelings for this week-long stay. I paid special attention to all dietary needs." Chester counted with his fingers. "Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free," he took a deep breath and rolled his eyes. "You kids these days."

He sauntered over to the counter at the back of the kitchen where all the various appliances were. As he gave everyone a quick tutorial on how to use the espresso machine and pressure cooker, Lex ran her fingers over the thick, cherry wood countertop of the island. It held six burners, a double sink and ample room to prepare meals.

The thought of crumbs falling upon the clean surfaces or a splatter of tomato sauce against the white stove top made her chew on her nails. A hand waving up and down in front of her face broke her trance.

"Yoo-hoo, we're heading upstairs now," Chester informed her as the group ascended the staircase. Once atop the spacious landing, there was a sweeping length of built-in shelving, desks, swivel chairs and a record player.

"The late Emil Strykowski had a deep and far-reaching love of literature. It's no secret," the groundskeeper took out a random novel from the shelf next to him and examined it, "that since his own writing career was not successful, he hoped he could make his mark upon the literary community in some way." He held the open book in front of the group. "Show me a book on these shelves without his notes lining the pages, and I'll give you another week here for free."

"Just kidding," he mumbled as he walked away from the shelf and slid the book back in. "One more thing before I go. There was a situation a couple days ago. I still have some repairs that need tending to in one of the rooms, so two of you lucky folks will have to room together for a night or so."

The group stood, silent, waiting for someone to volunteer. Paloma waved her manicured hand in the air. "I grew up in a big family, so I don't mind."

Timothy took a hesitant step forward with his brows raised.

She frowned in the most civil manner and explained, "I'd much rather room with a girl. No offense."

"Oh," Timothy shook his head. "None taken."

Lex felt her chest expand. "I'll share the room with you."

"Okay," Paloma smiled and clasped her hands in front of her.

"Alright," Chester clapped his hands together and walked over to the staircase. "Lovely meeting all of you. I have a nap to take. That little cabin down there in the clearing is mine. Feel free to visit, vent, recite, whatever. That's what I'm here for."

Lex tugged on his sleeve before he made it to the first step. "There's a shed behind your cabin. What's that for?"

"Oh," he stopped. "That old thing? Nothing really. There's a generator in there. Some old landscaping equipment and hunting gear."

Lex's eyes remained on the snow-covered shed outside the window.

"Sorry. No secret extra room," Chester waved goodbye. "Have a great first night, everyone. I left the liquor cabinet open. Don't drink and write."

After he left the cabin, the group settled into their bedrooms. Lex took her boots off and slung them into the corner nearest her bed. She looked at her phone and wondered why her mother or Robbie had not tried to call or text her yet. She realized she still had it on airplane mode.

Paloma wheeled her luggage and matching carry-on bag into the room. She was holding a full glass of red wine in her other hand. Her cheeks had reddened after her first glass.

"Hey," Lex said, looking up from her phone.

"Hi," Paloma lifted her shoulders. "This place is amazing, isn't it? Even better than the pictures."

She set her glass on their shared nightstand and began to unpack. Lex watched her move from side to side, laying her outfits on her bed just a few feet across from hers. Lex peered back down at her phone. No service. She sighed and wrung her finger around the drawstring of her joggers.

Paloma slid a drawer shut with her hip and flounced her hand out. "It's impossible to get service in this place. Timothy found a spot, though. Out on the deck. I was able to call my sister from there." 

Lex put her outerwear on and thanked her. The clouds had lessened to aimless, sweeping lines of coral and grey cursive against the sky. The snow had ceased. Finally, her phone flashed a new voicemail and text message.

Robbie: Land in literary heaven alright?

Lex: Yep. Snow-dappled and heavenly. Service is precarious. The dude that takes care of it is a total lush.

Robbie: Awesome. Call your mom. Stay warm... and at least you know the booze will be good.

She looked into the cabin and saw Paloma waving at her through the sliding glass door. "Okay?" Paloma mouthed. She nodded and saw another message pop up.

Robbie: So, how 'bout everyone else?

Lex: I dunno. We all just met. I guess everyone seems nice.

Robbie: Don't be afraid to open up. You're with your tribe now.

Lex took another look behind her shoulder and saw Brad and Timothy stacking logs into the fireplace. Paloma was sitting with her legs crossed, fuzzy socks on, leaning back in a recliner. Justin came into the common room with a tray of glasses and a cocktail shaker.

Robbie: Whatever you do, don't go quoting Plath or Woolf.

Lex grinned.

Lex: No need to hurry. No need to sparkle. No need to be anybody but oneself.*

Robbie: Touché.

*Virgina Woolf "A Room of One's Own"