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The car tires crunch as you make your way down the loose gravel drive.

You turned off the highway several minutes ago and are now being carried deep into the forest

along this secluded lane. You're heading to a quiet bed and breakfast that promised to be

off the beaten track. And so far it seems to be living up to its description.

Tall trees arch over the car, forming an intertwined web of branches that obscures your view of the sky.

Every so often you spot a dark cloud passing overhead and watch until it drifts behind a thick

trunk and out of sight. The road turns unpredictably, weaving in and out of the trees.

You're never able to see more than a few dozen feet ahead of you at a time before it twists away

– leading even deeper into the woods. The directions say you should stay on this gravel track

for several miles. So you cruise along slowly and carefully. You're in no hurry to get there.

You'll arrive when you can and not a moment sooner.

Through the glass you can see there's a light wind outside.

You roll down the window, letting in some fresh air. As soon as it's open just a sliver,

a cool crisp breeze flows into the car. It brings with it the scent of damp leaves and pine needles,

moss and oak. You relish the feeling of the air on your cheeks and smile as you navigate down the

lonesome road. This is just what you were hoping for. A cozy spot tucked away in nature

to relax and restore your mind and spirit.

...