Michigan's Upper Peninsula

After what seemed like hours, the cell phone rang. Piper froze mid-pacing, and I stiffened on the couch. Slowly, I leaned forward, snatched the phone from the coffee table, and glanced at the screen. I swiped to accept the call.

"Hey," I said, trying to sound casual.

"You're going to have some guests soon. They're friendly, so don't shoot."

The call dropped, and I held the phone away from my ear, staring at the ...