Mark Is Missing
We were only supposed to be in the woods for a few hours. A quick loop up and down the mountain. We just wanted to get away from things and drink some beers while we walked and talked. We didn't check the weather, we still had that teenage recklessness in us. We'd done this before.
We packed enough food for a few hours, a day or two if it was necessary. We didn't wear any waterproof clothing. We were ahead of schedule, so we spent extra time at the summit.
The snow came too quickly. Our bodies stiffened, and we slowed down. We lost track of the trail. We didn't intend on sleeping in the snow that night - but we did. We made a suitable shelter in a rock outcropping. That is where we stayed for the night.
For nights.
Too many.
We had warmth - and we found food. We foraged. I can't remember what the plants were we ate, but they were there.
Yes, even in the winter.
Pinecones and needles.
We were stuck, and no one came for us.
I promise you officer, Mark went missing on the 28th. We searched but we couldn't find him.
We're human, not monsters.