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Chapter Text

Savannah had her best customer service smile plastered on her face as she sat perched in front of her laptop and listened to her coworkers drown on the complaints they have from her budget plan. Being a financial advisor for a company has its ups and downs. She doesn't necessarily love her job and has often found herself scrolling through the job pages on Indeed for different postings. However, she get's to work from home and the pay is pretty decent so she can never actually bring herself to quit. 

"I do understand the frustrations on the proposed budget, however, due to our profit at the end of this previous term, I think it would be best to do a more limited plan until we can propose other ideas to improve our profitability and increase our budget margins." Her voice is calm and kind as she perks up despite the fact all she can really think about is popping open the bottle of merlot in her fridge and digging into the takeout she ordered 10 minutes ago when Trudy was once again complaining about her lack of a department raise. 

"Ms. Collins brings up a valid argument and seeing as it is growing closer to the end of the work day. I suggest we go ahead and approve this budget plan and take another look in a few months to see where our profits are and see if any budgets may be expanded." 

Savannah nearly cried out in glee as her coworker came to her rescue. There was a murmuring of agreement and soon she was exiting the meeting and shutting down her desktop. 

A soft groan left her lips as she stood and stretched her arms above her head. One of Savannah's favorite things about working from home was the ability to wear fluffy pajama pants while she wore a nice top. She shed off her nice blazer leaving her in a cream tank top. 

She grabbed a wine glass and moved to grab her wine, but a knock resonated throughout the apartment. 

"Food." She whispered gleefully, as she grabbed her wallet and made her way to her front door. 

The delivery guy greeted her kindly and she gathered her (probably an excessive amount) food, and tipped the guy before closing her door and walking back into her kitchen. 

She had gotten a majority of her food out of her takeout bags when there was another knock on her door. 

I guess he forgot to give me something. Savannah thought as she made her way back to her front door. 

She wasn't expecting to open it to find, not the delivery guy but none other than Dakota Laden. Her eyes widened in shock and a large grin spread across her face. 

"Dakota!" She exclaimed surging forward immediately hugging the boy tightly. 

"Suprise!" Dakota exclaimed as he hugged her back. 

They pulled away after a moment and Savannah tugged him and his small amount of luggage inside. 

"What are you doing here?" She said still smiling brightly. 

"Well, I haven't seen you in forever." Dakota started." And I have a proposition for you." 

"A proposition?" Savannah arched an eyebrow. She was met with Dakota's wicked grin. 

"Alright well, I just ordered an obscene amount of Chinese food, and I have wine." 

Dakota's nose crinkled. 

"And beer," Savannah added a small tone of amusement in her voice. 

"That's better."

Savannah rolled her eyes but lead him into the kitchen. She took out two plates and grabbed Dakota a beer. It had been a while since she had seen Dakota, he had been traveling with the Ghost Adventures crew filming and investigating, so she hadn't really gotten to see him much in the past few years. While they kept in touch frequently it was nice to find him sitting in front of her. He had never been to her apartment before but if she had to guess Chelsea gave him her address. She had visited her quite a lot since she was closer living in Chicago and all. 

They chatted aimlessly, Dakota had yet to bring up his proposition for her, but Savannah wasn't exactly pushing. She was enjoying catching up with Dakota. 

"So are you still with Jason?" Dakota asked and Savannah chuckled. 

"You mean Jeremy?" It was no secret that Dakota didn't like her now ex-boyfriend. In fact, Tanner, Chelsea, and Alex also strongly disliked her boyfriend. 

"Yeah him," Dakota said lifting his beer to take a sip. 

"We broke up." 

"Oh good." Savannah rolled her eyes at his statement. "I mean no disrespect to you Vannah, but that guy was an ass and did not deserve you." 

"None took Dak, now as much as I know you would love to have a shit-talking sesh on my ex I cannot take the suspense anymore. What is this proposition you dragged yourself all the way to Indianapolis for? Hm?" 

"Okay." Dakota claps his hands in front of him and grins. "Do you remember that trip that Tanner, Chelsea, Coalin and I took back in 2015?"

"Yeah...." Savannah's eyebrows raised. 

"Well I had a meeting with an executive producer at Travel Channel to pitch an idea for a new show and they accepted. Tanner, Chelsea, Alex, and I are gonna travel around the US to the most haunted locations to investigate and sleep alone to see how fear affects us and to finally face our childhood traumas of having haunted homes."

 "Okay, what do you want from me?" Savannah's head tilted in confusion. 

"I want you to also come with us." 

A loud laugh escaped Savannah's lips, and she quickly tried to cover it with her hand. Dakota arched an eyebrow at her outburst. 

"You're joking right?" Savannah managed through her laughter. 

"I'm dead serious." 

Savannah's eyes widened. "Holy shit you really are not joking." 

The woman sobered up fast from her laughing fit and stared wide-eyed at her friend. Her mouth fell slightly agape at the serious and pleading look being sent her way by Dakota. 

"Dak you cannot be serious. Sure I grew up in a haunted house but I don't have the experience that you guys do. Hell, Chelsea is the strongest girl I know and she backed out of the last trip!" Savannah exclaimed. 

She stood suddenly grabbing her now empty wine glass and around the kitchen island. 

"You're just as strong as Chelsea, and I know she would feel a lot better having another girl on the team. Especially if it's you. Besides don't you want to face your fears from all that haunting you experienced as a kid?" Dakota urged. 

"Not really," Savannah muttered pouring herself another glass of wine. 

A soft chuckle left Dakota's lips and he shook his head. 

"Oh come on Savannah, you cannot tell me that you're not a little bit intrigued. I bet if I turned on your TV I would find Ghost Adventures and about a dozen other ghost shows on there." 

Savannah pursed her lips but didn't say anything as she leaned back on the counter behind her, holding the wine glass to her chest. 

"I have a job, Dakota."

"Well luckily for you this show comes with a pretty paycheck and there's plenty of time until we start for you to give ample notice to your job. I also know that your job is pretty seasonal at times," Dakota says rummaging in his bag for a second before producing a folder. "This is a copy of your contract if you were to accept." Dakota slid it over the counter. 

Savannah stared at it for a moment before pushing off the opposite counter and taking the folder. She chews on the side of her bottom lip, a common habit of hers when she's nervous, she read over the packet and Dakota watched as her eyes widened slightly at the number at the bottom of the page. 

"So what do you say?" 

Savannah sighed before shutting the folder. 

"I want to thank about it, but I also want to soak up the three days I get with my best friend." 

Dakota smiled. "Alright I am inclined to agree with that, especially since I've missed you Savannah, we have all really missed you," Dakota adds. 

Savannah smiles back. "Flattery will not get me to say yes Dakota." 

"Worth a shot." The man shrugs. 

Dinner was cleaned up and the two stretched out on the couch for a movie. Dakota smirked as her TV turned on showing the recent apps and shows watched. Sure enough a plethora of ghost shows. Savannah ignored the amused smirk Dakota was sending her way and changed to Netflix. Savannah enjoyed having Dakota around, the two had met their Freshman year of high school. Dakota needed a tutor and Savannah was the best in their grade. The two become quick friends, mainly connecting over the fact that both their houses were haunted. Savannah had never told anyone about the crazy stuff that happened at her home. Dakota however was the only one that understood. The two became insanely close and with Dakota came Alex, then Tanner and Chelsea. Dakota was also the only person Savannah ever told about her schoolgirl crush on Dakota's older but very cute friend Tanner. It was never spoken of out loud and Savannah never mentioned a word of it to anyone but Dakota. Especially not Tanner in fear it would absolutely ruin their friendship. Savannah definitely viewed Dakota as her best friend and despite the anxiety, she got in her stomach thinking about sleeping alone and exploring haunted locations, she was insanely happy to see Dakota. 

It wasn't long into the movie before she heard Dakota's soft snores. She had offered him the guest bedroom, but she doubted she would be able to get him there tonight. Dakota was a heavy sleeper when he was somewhere he felt comfortable. Savannah propped a pillow under his head and covered him with a blanket before heading off to her bedroom. Savannah showered quickly and did her nighttime routine and climbed into her bed. She unlocked her phone and nestled underneath her covers. 

She opened up the group chat of Tanner, Chelsea, her, and Alex that they used for his surprise party last year. 

Savannah: I can't believe you guys actually want me to do this show, I don't have the experience you guys do. One little noise and I'm going to end up running out of the building. 

It didn't take long before replies hit her phone. 

C hels💛: Please tell me you said yes! Dakota isn't answering his phone and I've been bugging him for details for the past hour!

Savannah: He fell asleep halfway through the movie. 

Alex 🎥: You didn't answer the question Sav. Did you say yes?

Tan 🧸: Yeah come on Sav please say yes! 🥺🥺

Savannah chuckled softly. It was sweet that they wanted her to go so badly, but she didn't know if she was brave or strong enough to do it. She also didn't want to ruin their trip or show that she was too much of a chicken to finish the location. Sighing she typed in a reply. 

Savannah: I told him I'd think about it.

It was funny how almost instantaneous Tanner's name popped up on her phone as he requested to face time her. Savannah couldn't help but fix her hair slightly and sit up before answering the call. Tanner's face flooded the screen and she noticed him also in bed. It was kind of late, one glance at the clock and she could see the number 10:02 staring back at her. 

"What do I have to do," Tanner asked as the connection was established and Savannah couldn't help but chuckle softly. 

"It's not that simple Tanner, it doesn't have anything to do with you guys. I'd love to be able to go on a road trip and spend time with all of you. It's my own capabilities and bravery in exploring and sleeping in haunted locations. I don't think I'm brave enough for that." 

Tanner scoffed, not in a mean way but he sat up a little straighter. Savannah felt silly for her breath hitching after noticing the blanket drop and his bare chest poking out. 

"You are one of the bravest people I know. Do you remember when you came to visit Dakota in college and that guy tried to start a fight in that bar? He was like three times your size and you still got in the guy's face to defend Alex." 

Savannah chuckled softly she did remember that. She also remembered Tanner practically having to throw her over her shoulder so she didn't actually fight the guy.

"That's different that's a real person that I can see. Not invisible ghosts who can see me and I can't see them." 

"That's true but I know you can handle it. Besides we will all have your back." 

"You don't know, you only think I can." Savannah huffed falling back against her pillows. 

"And I bet Alex, Chelsea, and Dakota would all agree with me on this. You may hide it but you're just as obsessed with the paranormal as all of us and I think deep down you really wanna come your just on the self-doubt train." 

Savannah chewed on the side of her lip. Tanner was right, which she didn't really want to tell him that he was. 

"The chewing on the lip tells me I'm right." Tanner sang softly and Savannah sighed. 

"Okay, you're right." She mumbled. 

Tanner grinned. "So does that mean you'll do it?" 

Savannah exhaled softly before nodding. "Yeah, I'll do it. You only live once right?" 

"Yes!" Tanner bumped his fist up and Savannah laughed softly. 

"But if I jump in your arms like the baby I am there is no poking fun allowed." 

He grinned. "Don't worry angel you can jump into my arms anytime." 

Savannah rolled her eyes. "I'm going to bed." 

"Goodnight angel!" Tanner sang before Savannah hung up on him. 

Angel was an old nickname since she was a goody two shoes in high school. Alex and Chelsea had texted the group chats more during the facetime and Savannah grinned down at their texts begging her to come. She typed out a message. 

Savannah: Alright alright I'll do it.

She grinned down at her phone as one text rolled in from Tanner. 

Tan 🧸: We can let them think they convinced you to come. It'll lift their spirits 😉. 

Savannah laughed before setting down her phone and lulling off to sleep. It was safe to say Dakota was ecstatic the next morning. The two spent the rest of his time hanging out and soaking up their time. By the end of the weekend, Dakota promised more upcoming details about the show and that Dakota would update her every step of the way. Savannah however was feeling like she was definitely going to regret this decision.

Chapter Text

Savannah had spent the two weeks before leaving for Tennessee anxiously preparing for the trip. Her neighbor would graciously take care of her plants and home while she was gone, which Savannah was very grateful for. It was almost her off-season, so she was working insane hours to prepare the end-of-term budget numbers and other portfolios needed. Dakota had given her month's notice in advance which was incredibly helpful in preparations.

However, since Dakota wasn't telling her, or anyone else for that matter where they were going she was having a hard time preparing the actual packing that pertained to the trip. It looked like her closet and dresser had exploded onto her queen size bed which was completely covered with clothes sorted by type and weather. Her phone dinged with text. She threw down the rain jacket she was holding and picked it up. 

Tan 🧸: How's packing coming along?

Savannah: Horrible. A clothing tornado has hit my room. Trying to pack for an unknown destination and unknown weather is not fun. 

Tan 🧸: I bet it's not that bad. 

Savannah shook her head with a chuckle before raising her phone to take a picture and sending it to Tanner. 

Tan 🧸: I stand corrected...

Savannah: Yeah exactly... and I need to get on a plane tomorrow to head to Tennessee! I am feeling so overwhelmed!

Tan 🧸: On a happy note aren't you excited to see your favorite person in the whole world tomorrow

Savannah: Yeah I can't wait to see Dakota.

Tan 🧸: ...rude 

Savannah: I guess I'm kinda excited to see you too

Tan 🧸: Oh shut up you know you've missed me

Savannah felt a wide smile spread across her face as she looked down at her phone. Part of her felt a little silly that it had been so long yet her crush which she thought had been long passed was bubbling back up at the surface despite all efforts of pushing it back down. She and Tanner had always stayed in touch but ever since she agreed to do the trip they had been constantly texting. Chelsea had teased her about her old crush when they had talked a couple of days ago but Savannah hadn't mentioned the texting or the FaceTime calls that had been exchanged. She knew if she did not only Chelsea but Dakota would be relentless in their teasing despite Savannah's insistence that her crush was long gone. 

Savannah: Only a little bit

Tan 🧸: Uh huh

Savannah: I better finish packing I'll see you tomorrow 

Tan 🧸: See you tomorrow Angel

Savannah sent a text to Chelsea asking her how much and what she is packing before trying to sort the clothes and pack them neatly into the suitcases that were taking up most of her floor space. She decided to take a break to eat a snack and go through her checklist of chores that needed to be done before she left for the next upcoming weeks. She had deep cleaned her apartment just so her neighbor Mrs. Weskin wouldn't think she is a slob. She attached her work email to her personal laptop for the time being in case of emergencies and held off on grocery shopping so no food would go to waste. Which meant her snack was saltines and butter. Chelsea responded quickly seemingly having the same dilemma as Savannah with the whole packing ordeal, Jake had chimed in saying that their whole apartment was in chaos which made Savannah laugh. 

Three hours later as the sun began to set, Savannah was perched on her suitcase struggling to get the zipper to close on the second of two suitcases. After going over her extensive packing checklist three times Savannah was sure she thought of every possible scenario of weather and outfits needed for the trip. She was definitely gonna make the boys load them though because as she rolled them to her front door she already noticed the weight and was definitely going to have to pay a fee for the weight of her luggage. 

When Savannah finally collapsed onto her bed that night the nerves began to sink in. Tanner had still been texting her throughout the day along with Dakota. The boys were all in Las Vegas at their place and Tanner stretched out on the couch with a wide smile on his face as he hurriedly texted out a reply Dakota and Alex shared a glance an amused expression on both their faces. Tanner and Savannah thought they did a good job of hiding their old/reappearing feelings for one another but in reality, their whole friend group had been watching painfully from the sidelines for years as the pair ignored and pushed down their feelings in fear of ruining the friendship they both cherished. 

Savannah was in a similar position smiling down at her phone as she settled in for the night. She was excited to see all of her friends but deep down she was incredibly excited to see Tanner again. She hadn't seen him since Chelsea's birthday nearly a year ago, and she had only been able to stay for a day so the interactions were only in passing. It had been even longer since she saw Alex since he hadn't been able to come to Chelsea's birthday. While Savannah was extremely nervous about the haunting aspect she found she couldn't wait to be surrounded by the people she loved the most. 

After a while Savannah fell asleep smiling softly to herself. 

----

----

Savannah never really liked flying and she sighed in relief as she stepped off the plane and into the tunnel. The boys had arrived a couple of hours before her and were busy setting up the hotel room to shoot the intro of the show. Savannah made a pit stop for coffee before getting her bags and hailing a taxi. She had texted the group chat saying she was en route to the hotel and received a jumble of excited responses which caused her to giggle. She also received a text from Alex to share her location just in case the taxi driver was a murderer (he wasn't but Savannah obliged anyway). When the taxi pulled up to the hotel she was met by three boys who were waving their arms excitedly as her taxi pulled to a stop. Savannah didn't miss the look the driver had tossed their way but she thanked him and slid out of the car. The boys had made quick work of unloading her luggage before she was squished into a hug by Dakota. 

"Don't hog her Dak! You gotta see her a couple of weeks ago!" Alex complained in a high-pitched whine before he pulled him back to get to Savannah. 

"That was like 4 months ago!" Dakota complained as he was pulled away. 

Savannah laughed slightly as she hugged Alex back. 

"It's so good to see you Sav! It's been way too long." Alex pulled away slightly still holding his hands on her shoulders. 

"I know! Now you're stuck with me for a while so you'll get all the Savannah time you guys have so desperately missed." 

"Sounds great to me," Tanner said and Alex slid back so the two could hug. 

"Of course, it does I'm fantastic," Savannah mumbled into his chest. 

Tanner begrudgingly pulled back after a moment, Dakota didn't miss the way his eyes swept over her as Savannah turned towards Alex. A smirk grew on his lips but he didn't say anything, just gave Tanner a look which he ignored but if the slight dusting of pink on his cheeks had anything to say, it was that Dakota was right in his teasing. Savannah checked into her room and the boys helped her carry her things to her room, not without teasing her about the heaviness of them. Savannah had rolled her eyes and told Dakota that it was his fault for not giving her any hints at all about where they were going or what she would need. Chelsea would be arriving later that day but in the meantime, Savannah began her training. She sat with Alex in the room with all of their equipment and listened intently as he gave her a crash course on how to work a camera and use other sets of equipment she would need. Savannah took her training seriously and Dakota and Tanner both made teasing comments about the serious concentrated look on her face, which she ignored. 

After her crash course, they set Savannah up for her interview for the first episode. Savannah found herself very nervous about being on camera for the first time in her life. The thought of potentially thousands and thousands of people seeing her on camera was daunting but Tanner, Dakota, Alex, and Chelsea kept the mood light and fun and Savannah slowly felt her anxiety slipping away. 

Alex finished setting up the room and cameras while Savannah got herself situated. 

"You ready." 

"Yep." Savannah smiled softly and Alex grinned back before starting.

-----

"I'm starving," Chelsea commented as they finished their interviews and the intro for the show. Savannah muttered an agreement from her spot spread across the floor of the hotel room with all their equipment. 

"What do you guys want?" Dakota asked.

"I saw a pizza place around the corner." 

Savannah lifted her head. "I could go for pizza." 

"Time to get up," Alex said nudging her leg with his foot. 

"Alright, alright." 

The group all rose and Savannah's phone buzzed rapidly in her pocket with a series of texts, and Chelsea gave her a knowing look as the two girls led the group at the door. Chelsea had been the only one whom Savannah confided in about the extreme mess of a breakup that she was dealing with. Despite the time that has passed Jeremy was still dragging it out and Savannah was heavily annoyed. For some unknown reason, he thought he had a say in the matter and was convinced she was making a huge mistake by going on this road trip. He had snapped at her saying that he wasn't going to be there when she fell apart afterwards and would instead laugh at her stupidness. Not that Savannah had any fucking plans on ever confiding in him again and if it wasn't for their shared friends and work lives she would have blocked him. 

"Is that who I think it is?"

"Yep, apparently I am not allowed to leave and go on a road trip without telling him because he deserves to know." Savannah rolled her eyes and Chelsea scoffed. 

"I'm so glad you broke up with him."

"Me too." The boys chorused behind them and the two girls laughed. 

Savannah shook her head.

"Out of curiosity Vannah. Why did you break up with him?" 

Savannah looked forward and shrugged her head feigning nonchalance. "It just wasn't working and our goals weren't meshing." 

What Savannah meant was he was becoming a total asshole, talking her down, and becoming very controlling. She couldn't take it and she wasn't getting any younger so the thought of wasting her time with someone who didn't seem to truly care about her wants and needs made her feel gross. She wasn't about to tell her friends that though because they had the tendency to become very protective and she just wanted to forget about it, especially forget about the last few months of that relationship. Her friends didn't believe her indifferent attitude they knew her better than anyone and they especially knew when she was lying, but they let it go, for now. 

As her phone buzzed more rapidly in her pocket. Before she could shut it off on her own Tanner appeared next to her and swiped the phone out of her pocket. 

"What are you doing?" She exclaimed standing on her tiptoes to reach him but Tanner stretched out of her grip causing her to huff. "Don't say anything too wild I still have to see him at the company meetings," Savannah whined. 

Yes, she dated her coworker, but they weren't working together when they originally met, only when the two companies merged. 

"I won't," Tanner replied but if his grin and tone could tell her anything was that Jeremy was sure going to get it if he didn't stop messing with her. 

Savannah sighed but gave up and said nothing as Tanner slipped her phone back into her pocket, grazing her exposed skin where her shirt rode up as he did so. She bit down on her tongue to stop the blush from spreading across her cheeks. But according to the sly look from Chelsea, she was unsuccessful. 

A few minutes later they were all sliding into a booth and Savannah was squished into Tanner's side not that either of them minded. He lifted his arms to rest on the booth behind her and Savannah slid even closer to his side. The smirk that appeared on Tanner's face was almost missed if it wasn't for Alex who gave him a shit-eating grin in return as he widely darted his eyes between Tanner and Savannah. Tanner rolled his eyes and shifted in his seat. 

"So on a more serious note. How are you guys feeling about this whole thing." Dakota asked as the group dug into the mozzarella sticks they ordered. 

"I mean I'm feeling pretty apprehensive, you guys have all done this before at some level or another, and the only experience I have is growing up in a haunted farmhouse before I moved to Lakeville. I am gonna be totally out of my element here." Savannah admitted. 

"It can be very intimidating at first but just remember we are all in this together and we are all gonna look out for each other and if you ever feel too overwhelmed and feel like it's too much you have every right to take a step back." Dakota offered giving her a reassuring smile. 

"Yeah, we're gonna look out for you don't worry." Tanner pinched her shoulder and was relieved to see the soft smile spreading across her face. 

"Okay, but I'm just saying if I become an absolute baby and hightail it out of there none of you are allowed to make fun of me," Savannah said picking up her mozzarella stick. 

"Oh come on not even a little." Alex teased

"Yeah, only a little Vannah," Dakota added. 

"Don't forget I have plenty of dirt on the both of you, I'm not afraid to use it." Savannah pointed her mozzarella sticks at them threatening. The boys responded by sticking out their tongues and Savannah laughed softly. 

Savannah and Chelsea fell into a side conversation as the boys started talking about equipment which Chelsea and Savannah got bored of pretty quickly. Instead, they talked about her and Jake, and if Savannah was talking to anyone new (which was a hard no and Tanner secretly enjoyed hearing), they also talked about Savannah's job. Chelsea had been trying to convince her to for a while to quit her job, and that had only increased since Chelsea found out she agreed to do the show. 

"It's not that bad Chels." 

"You hate that job."

"No, I just strongly dislike my coworkers," Savannah argued and Chelsea rolled her eyes. 

"You're incredibly stubborn." 

Savannah beamed and as the pizza arrived the conversations fell short as the group dug into their pizza. Some guesses were thrown around about the location but Dakota remained unwavering in the fact he was giving no hints. Eventually, the group decided to wrap up and head back to the hotel to get some sleep. Most of the rooms were in the same hall besides Alex's room which was connected to the room that held all of their gear. Savannah slipped into the shower once she returned to her room. Her anxiety was skyrocketing as she thought more and more about the road trip ahead but she was trying very hard to keep her cool. Tanner lay in his bed just a few doors down thinking about he was going to protect Savannah on this road trip, however when it comes to the paranormal that is a lot easier said than done. 

-------

Savannah was awake bright and early the next morning mainly to get some work done that had come in as 'urgent' despite the fact it only took her thirty minutes. She was all packed and ready to go when rapid knocks were placed on her door. She opened it to Dakota beaming and nearly jumping up and down with excitement. 

"You ready!"

"Absolutely!" Savannah said mimicking his enthusiasm which received a snort of laughter from Alex. 

It was a bit odd for Savannah to have a camera in her face recording her at all times but she was dealing. 

Chelsea was next who answered her door with a little less enthusiasm as Savannah did. Tanner however was bursting with enthusiasm causing the group to laugh.

"We still have another ten hours before I even tell you where we're going," Dakota commented as they headed outside. 

"Dang," Tanner muttered. 

"How lovely," Savannah commented. 

"There it is!" Dakota exclaimed causing Savannah to laugh softly at his reaction. 

"Just imagine all the memories we're gonna have in here." Chelsea tapped the side of the bus. 

"And the smells."

Savannah tilted her head back in a laugh. Here we go she thought. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This is how I imagined Savannah about halfway through packing. 

Chapter Text

"TURN THIS THING AROUND!" Chelsea exclaimed her eyes wide and Savannah sat next to her mouth wide open and her stomach in her ass.

"You better be fucking joking," Savannah exclaimed as she found her voice.

Dakota just chuckled nervously, feeling a little afraid as his best female friend was glaring daggers at him as he revealed the fact of their location. Savannah felt as if her stomach dropped into her ass and she was feeling completely unnerved. The closer and closer they got to the location the more Savannah wanted to jump out of the RV windows and run for the fricking hills.

"Why in the hell did I agree to this," Savannah muttered dropping her face into her hands and squeezing her temples.

"You know I have no clue why you agreed," Dakota answered which only resulted in Savannah shooting her head up to glare at him which only caused him to chuckle nervously as he avoided eye contact.

Savannah fell backward on the bed. Chelsea patted her shoulder reassuringly but she was just as scared as Savannah was. Savannah peeked one eye open to find Tanner already staring at her. There was a worry line in between his eyebrows and Savannah's heart sunk even more. The last thing she needed to do was worry Tanner even more. This road trip was already gonna be tough enough and he didn't need anything else on his plate. So she forced a hopefully reassuring smile onto her face and Tanner slowly matched it.

Savannah felt her hands tremble as she squeezed into the booth beside Tanner as they prepared for the packet read. Chelsea wasn't in a much better stage but she hid it a little better than the brunette across from her. Dakota sat on the bench across from them and Alex filmed. Savannah chewed on her thumbnail nervously. She was a mess of nerves and her friends noticed. Dakota was hoping she would gain more confidence as they went on but for now, Savannah was dreading what came. She was also trying hard not to be a baby about it or let it outwardly show because she didn't want her friends to worry about who they were. She was a big girl she kept reminding herself and she should not be making her friends worry so much. So she squared her shoulder clutched her hands tightly in her lap and put on what was hopefully a confident look on her face.

"Okay. Who wants to open the packet?"

"Me. I want to do it." Chelsea piped up before anyone else not that Savannah was rushing to offer it up. Yes, she was curious but she didn't know if she could sound as confident as she was trying to portray. As a hand wrapped just above her knee and began to rub soft circles in comfort Savannah hoped a blush wouldn't appear as she knew Alex's camera was watching the whole thing.

"Chelsea? " Dakota asked in shock but when his sister nodded he handed it over. "Here we go, Chelsea."

"Alright." A high wheeze left her lips as she ripped open the packet. "Location number one. Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary... Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is known as the Alcatraz of the South, and it has a tortured and horrifying history during its 113 years in operation. It housed the worst offenders
imaginable -- Those imprisoned for murder and the most horrific of violent crimes."

"There are so many people who can testify for just how brutal and scary this place is." Dakota cut in.

"An impenetrable fortress, the prison is nearly encircled by rugged, wooded mountains. The only prison in the US with only three walls, the fourth being a massive cliff. There is only one road in and out."

Tanner whipped his head to Dakota's shock masking his features about the odd architecture and Savannah sent Chelsea a reassuring smile as she glanced up at her. Or at least she hoped it was reassuring. It could have looked more like a grimace with how Savannah was feeling. Tanner's hand kept firm on her knee and Savnnah was grateful for the warmth and comfort it brought her.

"The grounds were a death trap, and some say those lost souls have never left... You can read the next part." Chelsea said after a moment shoving the packet towards Tanner. His hand left Savannah as he reached for the packet and a nervous chuckle left his lips.

Tanner read a comment about the auditorium from one of the workers and Savannah felt her heart pick up tenfold at the mention of the creeper.

"The auditorium is something else. It's evil. We have to go in it."

Savannah and Chelsea both shot Dakota look at his comment but Tanner continued reading from the excerpts of workers.

"This is a dark location. Tanner, do you want to keep reading? Because it gets a lot worse."

"People have been touched and even become physically ill from the entities that remain on the grounds."

Savnnah's head snapped to Tanner reading over his shoulder to verify.

"Holy hell dude," Savannah muttered under her breath reaching up to rub her temple.

"Whoa, dude."

"The hole, where prisoners were kept in solitary confinement..."

Dakota glanced up at Savannah as he finished reading about the hole and Savnnah sucked in a deep breath.

"Alright." She muttered. "Brushy is said to be haunted by numerous spirits, including the spirit of James Earl Ray..."

"Whoa!" Tanner cut her off and Savannah held up her hand as she continued

"...Assassin of Martin Luther King Jr."

"Are you kidding me?" Chelsea says after a moment as all their faces show complete shock.

Savannah swallowed before continuing.

"This is going to be insane," Tanner muttered shaking his head.

"Hell no."

"Hell yeah."

"God help me," Savannah added.

"We're doing this," Dakota said and Savnnah let the packet fall from her hands as she leaned back in the booth.

The three remained in silence as Alex cut on his camera and Dakota nervously fidgeted with his own. Savannah stood slowly.

"I am going to get ready for bed and then watch Gilmore Girls to try and forget..." She waved her hand at the packet "...that! In hopes that I might get some sleep tonight."

"I'll join you!" Chelsea called hopping up after her as the girl went to the back. The sliding door shut for privacy as the girls changed and fell into a random conversation both trying to pretend they didn't know about the horror that awaited them tomorrow. 

Alex was the first to break the silence as he slowly stretched out on the couch.

"Are we just gonna ignore the fact that Tanner's hand was on Vannah's thigh for like half that packet read?" 

Tanner's head snapped around as he glared at Alex and Dakota barked out a laugh. 

"It was on her knee!" Tanner hisses but a light dusting appears on his cheeks causing his friends to laugh more. 

Meanwhile, Chelsea and Savannah climb into the large bed, Savannah's laptop perched between them. Chelsea brought out some snacks and Savnnah was pretending she didn't hear Alex as she pulled up Netflix. 

"His hand was on your thigh for a little bit Sav." 

"Shut up!" Savannah grumbled as she sunk into the bed. 

The guys began getting ready for bed an hour or so later and to their pleasant surprise, both girls were passed out. Dakota grabbed the laptop while Tanner gathered the snacks and set them aside. Neither girl stirred, the others attempted to find their sleep, knowing they would need it for the future. 

-----

Savannah was the first to wake up. The RV was stationary, having been stopped only a few miles out from their next haunted location. Savannah glanced around at her sleeping friends before she quietly and carefully slipped out of bed and got ready. Alex was passed out on the couch and Savannah laughed at his snores before draping his blanket back over him that fell. She sighed softly at the copious emails and texts she received from Callan the man who was supposed to be taking over her job as she took her sabbatical. She grabbed one of Alex's hoodies because they were big and comfy and slipped outside. 

She set herself up at one of the picnic tables. She plugged in her headphones and clicked call. Callan picked up on the second ring and Savannah rolled her house at his urgency. Her fingers flung over her keyboard as she pulled up the task and her annoyance prickled even more when she realized she left detailed instructions on how to deal with the format in the manual she left him. 

"Callan I will add some notes and guidance tools and then you can proceed on your own," Savannah told him before ending the call and ignoring his protests. 

Savannah was incredibly focused on the tasks that she didn't even notice when Tanner slipped out of the RV half an hour later. He shook his head as he realized she was working even when she wasn't supposed to and headed towards the coffee shop a little way down. Twenty minutes later he returned, Savannah still not noticing him as she typed away. 

"You're not supposed to be working." Tanner's voice ripped through the silence and Savannah jumped nearly pushing herself off the bench as she whipped around to meet Tanner's amused gaze. 

She gave him a sheepish smile and he shook his head but set a coffee cup in front of her. Her eyes lit up and she reached enthusiastically towards the cup before turning to her work. She didn't miss the look she was sent by Tanner. 

"Don't give me that look I am almost done and then I will be sending an email to Charlize to make clear about my no contact unless extreme emergency throughout my sabbatical." 

"I got you a bagel sandwich too because even though you firmly believe coffee constitutes a meal, it does not," Tanner only received an eyeroll in response. 

"What are you guys doing." A groggy Dakota asked as he stepped out. 

"I am enjoying the morning air, but someone is working." 

"Snitch," Savannah muttered. 

"Sav!" 

"I'm almost done!" 

"I'm giving you 5 minutes and then I'm locking your laptop away." 

Her fingers flew faster, and Tanner handed Dakota his coffee and breakfast. Alex and Chelsea joined them and Savannah slammed her laptop close as Dakota reached for it. 

"Done!" 

"You are incredibly stubborn," Dakota grumbled into his coffee. 

"Is that my hoodie?" Alex glances up from his food and narrows his eyes at Savannah. 

"Yep!" She says popping the p. 

"Hoodie stealer!" 

"Get over it." She sticks her tongue out at him. 

"Rude!" 

The others watched them bicker back in forth in amusement, neither of them meaning any harm as they banter back and forth. Eventually, the group makes their way inside, but not before Chelsea insists on Savannah eating her bagel. Which she does but not without a big eye roll and a "whatever you say, Mom". They all get situated to film some things for the first episode. Savannah and Chelsea fussed at their appearances in the bathroom causing the boys in their group to tease them. Savannah flipped them off as Chelsea laughed. 

Savannah found herself on the couch squished into Chelsea's side so that Alex could film them both. 

"How do you feel about this long trip we're about to be on?" Dakota asked. "Like this is just one of the man, many days." 

"One thing I'm nervous about is how dark some of these places could be." 

"The thing about these experiences is, that everyone handles it differently. So when one person might have a okay night the other person could have a really bad night. So it's like we have to be really aware of each other to." 

"And make sure that we are honest about how we're feeling and don't try to save it for face." Savannah pipes in. 

"I mean this isn't about who finishes first, it's all about finishing the line together." 

Savannah can't help but laugh as Dakota repeats what Tanner said adding "You're pretty smart sometimes dude." 

"Also I know you may feel like you are on the outside because of your inexperience but that also means you aren't tainted or have any preconceived notions which might make this a whole different experience for you," Chelsea says to Savannah who nods slowly. 

The group continues to chat and Alex does a check-up on all the equipment and cameras. Savannah also makes sure she knows how to work the camera and equipment. The last thing she wants is to fumble something and miss out on something good. 

It seems like no time when a while has passed and the RV is pulling into a truck stop. Everyone is hungry again and the group files into the place. Savannah's nerves kick up widely as Dakota asks about the Penitentiary to the workers. 

She is suddenly that in a few hours, she will be spending a night in the very prison. She slides into the chair next to Dakota who chuckles nervously. 

"That was kinda creepy what she said about the prison. Like, she was like, if you don't believe now, you're gonna believe after." 

Savannah pokes his side. 

"Well, you're the one that had to ask her about it."She snips a little grumpily. 

As if the world knew that Savnnah needed someone else to scare her Dakota spots the man at the table across from them. Who just so happened to work as a guard. 

"I've seen a lot of deaths up there. So I'm sure, you know if there's any ghosts and stuff, it'll be up there... I wouldn't want to spend a night up there." 

"You wouldn't want to spend the night up there?" 

"No, no... before you'll start eating, I'd like to say this one more thing. Thinking about what I've experienced at Brushy,  I would suggest very very seriously, that you watch your back up there. Because I don't know what could happen." 

"..okay," Dakota says after a moment feeling the intensity of his words. 

Despite the rock that has lodged itself in her stomach Savannah tries to smile as she talks with her friends. All of them know she's anxious and trying to hide it with ignorance and enthusiasm. Savannah feels even more on edge as they load into the RV. Tanner sits down next to Savannah. 

"You got this. Just remember if you feel like you're getting too overwhelmed you can take a step back." He reassures her gently rubbing her back as he does so. 

However, despite all of her fear and anxiety welling up in her gut, Savannah is determined for one thing. To last through the night and to conquer her fear. She spent most of her childhood ignoring the creepy things that lurked in her home, she could handle this. That's at least what she told herself. 

"Don't worry Tanner, I won't be jumping into your arms anytime soon." Savannah teases referencing the conversation that convinced her into this mess. 

"Damn shame I'm a little disappointed," Tanner replies a smirk on his face as Savannah's own goes cherry. 

She always didn't know what to do when he flirted with her. A part of her loved it and a part of her felt like the high schooler crushing over the guy 4 years older than her and feeling so childish and stupid to think he meant anything behind the teasing words he spoke to her. 

"Whatever." Savannah rolls her eyes and follows after to Chelsea to convince the woman to do her hair for the night. 

Tanner watches her go his smirk still in place even after Alex sends him a "really?" look. He was enjoying having Savannah come along. 

----------------------------

Okay guys I was not gonna do Brushy in three parts but I don't wanna go over 3000 words a chapter because I feel like it's a lot and this chapter was nearly over 5000 words so there will be a part 3!

ALSO NOW PUBLISHED ON WATTPAD!

Enjoy this little collage I made for Savannah!

Chapter Text

^^ 'Leave it to Savannah to find the only stray cat for miles and make friends' - posted on Tanner's private Snapchat^^

--------------------

Soon enough the group besides Alex crowds into the little space by the front window to watch for the location. Savannah ignores how close Tanner is pressed into her back as he stares over his head—focusing on aiming her camera out the window. Which is a little hard considering he towers over he and has her pinned to the dash his hips bumping hers every once in a while with the sway of the cars. She curses herself in her head, scolding internally for being so affected by the proximity. Although a voice in her head reminds her that he seems to make it a point to be close to her and touch her a lot she's been on this trip. She ignores that voice and shakes it out of her head.

Dakota's arm shoots out. "That's it up there!"

"Oh dang! That's it up there?" Tanner exclaims.

"Yeah, that's it!"

"Holy bejeezus." Savannah wheezes.

"Oh, my goodness."

"Why is there nothing else around it?" Chelsea asks.

"Probably because it's a prison Chels," Savannah whispers to her, receiving a snort from the man behind her and an eyeroll from the blonde.

"Oh, We just went through the gate!"

"Aw!"

"You guys, we're in."

"May the odds be ever in your favor," Savannah mutters.

The group gapes over the sheer size of this place. Savannah and Chelsea both exclaim in synchrony that they aren't stepping foot inside. Only to begrudgingly step out and make their way to the prison as they unload all of their gear.

"Anyone else got a really bad feeling already?"

Chelsea pushed open the gate to the massive entryway and Savannah followed closely. She may be scared shitless but she is not gonna leave her friend to go first on her own.

"We got everything set up. We got an area where we're gonna have all our gear. And now it's time for a walkthrough." Dakota says into Tanner's camera as they gather in the courtyard.

"Where should we start?"

"In this building"

"Might as well.

"Let's do the big one."

"Great idea!" Savannah feigns excitement.

Savannah is towards the back of the group in front of Alex as they make their way in. It's so dark even with her flashlight. Her eyes dart everywhere waiting for something to pop out and send her running to the parking lot and down the road after the RV.

"What was that?" Dakota asks barely a few feet into the building.

Savannah darts her eyes around not having heard what he did.

"What was what?" Tanner asks looking behind him.

Dakota shakes his head. "Nothing I am just hearing things."

"Yeah, I heard it too," Chelsea says backing up her brother.

Savannah slides in front of Dakota suddenly feeling very eery being almost in the back. Tanner starts talking about the shower but Savannah is too focused on the sudden movement she swears she sees above her. She angles her camera hoping it will see something, or nothing at all and Savannah can say she's already losing it.

Chelsea gasps joining Savannah in her search also hearing movement. Savannah can do nothing but tense up eyes darting upward searching for it. Curses erupt as the pigeon suddenly flies down. Chelsea crashes into Savannah sending both girls flying down. Savannah in a rare sight of agility manages not to send her camera flying across the pavement but also to catch herself.

"Holy fucking shit!" She yells no doubt getting bleeped out for the cameras.

Chelsea tries to scramble backwards from the pigeon only resulting in her nearly climbing into Savannah's lap and bumping heads. The others laugh but all the girls can do is groan softly.

"We are so smooth." Savannah laughs softly and Chelsea chuckles scrambling to her feet as she laughs.

"Not my finest moment." Chelsea laughs out and Savannah nods in agreement as she pushes herself up.

"We're already being attacked by birds," Dakota adds for the cameras.

"I noticed Savannah looking up and I heard something so I joined her and suddenly I was on the floor. We walk 20 feet and I already hit the ground."

"And brings me with her." Savannah chimes.

Tanner is laughing historically.

"That's a joke," Chelsea grumbles turning to move farther into the prison.

They sober up and find the stairs.

"Gosh, I don't like this." Dakota peers into the cells.

"It's all connected," Savannah adds swiveling her camera to show the space.

"So not only are you hearing all the men are your floor but it's open so you can hear every single person. Imagine how much noise all the time."

"That probably sucked so bad."

"Yeah, there's probably a lot of residual energy here too," Dakota adds.

Savannah spins around facing her camera down the catwalk, swearing she heard something clink but finds nothing. Alex who had followed the others down the catwalk in the opposite direction turns around.

"Everything alright?"

"Yeah, I swear I heard something tho." Savannah shook her head and rejoined the group.

However even as she made it farther into the prison the hairs on her arms stuck up and she has never felt more on edge than ever. She hurries over to Alex who tries to give her a reassuring smile but it just looks like a grimace as she shuffles past him. The group comes to the end of the floor next to the staircase.

"Where does this lead to? Savannah asks walking up to the door.

"Oh, that's the auditorium!" Tanner exclaims pointing to the words above the door.

"Holy cow," Savannah whispers taking a few steps back to stand next to Chelsea.

"The auditorium is reportedly where the darkest spirits haunt." Dakota pipes up.

"Come on use those big strong muscles," Savannah mutters as Tanner tries to wrench open the door causing Chelsea to laugh beside her.

"Nope, not budging," Tanner says turning around.

"Wow, that sucks."

"Yeah, we have to be able to get in there."

"There's another way in," Dakota mutters as they turn to leave.

Savannah is stuck to the back as the group makes their way back the way they came.

BANG!

"WHAT THE FUCK!" Chelsea screams shooting past Savannah and the others.

Savannah tries to backpedal her way but nearly trips. Alex manages to catch her without breaking either of their cameras, but Savannah can't help but let out a slew of curses once again probably getting bleeped out on the TV. The guys start talking through it just as another bang rings through the other. Once again there's screaming but this time Savannah ducks behind Tanner grabbing his arm as he goes to walk towards it.

"Don't show them fear." He calls out to the group.

"A little late for that."

Savannah walks over to Chelsea gently grabbing the girl's shoulder to help her up from the squatting position as she apologizes for screaming.

"How did you not scream," Chelsea asks.

"I don't know I kinda just froze and swore, the editors are gonna hate me." Savannah jokes as she gently fixes Chelsea's hair.

"You alright?"

"Yeah."

"Sleeping alone is gonna suck."

The group takes a small break in the hallway as Dakota talks about what they have experienced so far. Chelsea and Savannah sit a little ways away trying to calm down from what they just heard. Secretly Savannah is a little proud that she hasn't run for the hills yet even though she has wanted to.

"Dude it's not even 11 yet and we're gonna be here till like 6:00 am," Savannah mutters.

"Jesus Christ," Chelsea replies shaking her head.

"Alright ready?" Dakota asks the girls who nod and stand to their feet.

"We didn't go up this way."

Savannah slides up behind Dakota to walk up the stairs. She doesn't know why but she has a feeling that Dakota isn't feeling well. Maybe it's the way he's talking but she just feels like he's acting weird.

"Wow!" Savannah exclaims automatically grabbing Dakota's shoulder with one hand as he tips back a little.

"You okay?" She and Tanner chorus.

Dakota shakes his head a bit.

"Yeah just got dizzy."

Savannah eyes him up and down before nodding. She glances back at Tanner before gently nudging Dakota's arm. If he's gonna pass out she'd much prefer it to happen on the next level and not the stairs. Luckily they reach the next level and Savannah gives me a light pat on the shoulder.

"Thanks, Sav but I'm good."

"Alright but if you start to feel worse you tell us." Savannah insists.

"I will."

"I like how we were all really worried about Vannah and yet she's taking it like a champ." Chelsea pipes up.

"Jokes on you Chel, I'm scared shitless I just apparently hide it better."

The group laughs as they continue deeper into the prison.

"Where are we now?"

"Yeah... this is the hospital."

Savannah lets out a big puff of air shaking her head. This cannot be a good place she thinks to herself. She slowly walks around the space, it's such an odd feeling to be wandering around the same place that prisoners once did. She quickly agrees with Chelsea when she comments on how creepy it is.

"Wow!" Dakota exclaims, causing Savannah to immediately step back near Tanner.

"You know you keep using me as a shield," Tanner whispers to her.

"Yeah well, better you than me." She whispers back causing Tanner to laugh as he shakes his head.

"I do not like the hospital at all."

"You wanna sit down?"

The group decides to sit down for a moment to wait to see if they hear anything. Savannah plops down next to Chelsea. Her camera is pointed at Tanner, while he is pointed at her. The group sits for a while with nothing happening. Dakota and Tanner ask a few questions out loud waiting for a response but nothing happens.

"I guess they don't wanna talk right now," Savannah mumbles as she pushes herself onto her feet.

Savannah decides to follow Chelsea as she walks further down the halls.

"It's so cold in here."

"Yeah I know I feel like my fingers are gonna fall off."

"It's like 20 degrees colder in this room." Tanner agrees.

Savannah walks deeper into the big room coming into a larger place.

"Sav?" Chelsea calls out having lost sight of the girl.

"Yeah?"

"Dude where are we?" Chelsea asks as she comes next to Savannah.

"I don't know but it's just a space maybe it was a rec hall or something," Savannah mumbles panning around the room with her camera.

"Chelsea?" Dakota's voice calls a little bit away.

"Yeah."

"Are you still in the hospital?"

"We have no clue where we are!" Savannah calls slowly walking down the steps into the space.

"I have no idea what this place is," Chelsea adds.

"Oh! You guys are in the auditorium."

Savannah freezes mid-step, spinning around to her friends who are now a little way from her.

"Nope nope nope." She says zooming back up the stairs.

"A lot of people did die in the auditorium," Dakota says as he joins the group.

"Isn't there like a creeper or something?" Savannah whispers and shouts.

"Yeah, there is," Alex tells her.

"Jesus H Christ and I was just walking around without a care!"

"Maybe don't wander off in haunted locations." Tanner teases.

"I was trying to be a could paranormal explorer and investigate!"

The group laughs softly at her and Savannah just shakes her head. They come across the door that Tanner had tried to open earlier. Which Dakota still can't open. They decide to sit down and go quiet, so Savannah plops down a few feet next to Tanner.

It doesn't take long because moving can be heard away from them. Savannah whips her head around making sure her friends heard that too and is met by a Chelsea mouthing 'oh my god'.

"What was that?"

"It was footsteps!" Savannah hisses.

"Sounded like something getting closer."

When Tanner drops his flashlight it causes both girls to jump, and Chelsea shooshes him.

"Honestly man my throat is like getting super scratchy," Tanner mutters.

Which causes Savannah to look at him worriedly.

"You think it's from the dust or something else?"

"I don't know." He says coughing loudly.

When he starts laughing a lot more Savannah is quick to scramble over to him, watching worriedly as he coughs over and over.

"Should we take a break?"

Tanner continues to cough.

"Use your inhaler!"

"I forgot it."

"I didn't!" Savannah exclaimed quickly pulling it out of her pocket and holding it up to him.

He takes a few puffs which helps him a lot.

"You grabbed my inhaler?"

"You left it on he counter, I figured we should be prepared." Savannah shakes her head grabbing his arm as she stands. "Dakota is right we need to get you outside." She tugs him to his feet.

It's obvious that the whole group is freaked out, Dakota is speeding back through whereas Savannah takes it easy slowly trailing alongside Tanner sending him worried glances every few seconds. He, of course, notices and sends her a smile.

"Don't worry angel I'm not gonna be keeling over anytime soon."

Savannah rolls her eyes.

"Seriously with that nickname hasn't it gotten old?"

"Nope." He says popping the p which only causes the girl to huff.

Tanner grins down at her but now she is seemingly dead set on looking straight and also hoping it's far too dark to pick up the small hint of pink on her cheeks. Like seriously? Flirting in a prison? What is wrong with them? She thinks.

Once they get outside Tanner explains to the group the tightness they feel in his chest. And when Dakota makes the comment that is where people got their throat slit Savannah's stomach sinks and she feels sick.

"This was a terrible idea." She grumbles.

"Hey, I'm fine," Tanner reassures her.

Savannah glances up at him surveying his face for any sign that he still isn't feeling well and sighs when she sees none.

"Alright."

"Thank you again for the inhaler, always looking out for me aren't you angel." He smiles before walking over to Alex to help him change the batteries in the camera taking Savannah's with him as he goes.

Chelsea slowly walks up to the slightly younger girl and gives her a look. Savannah shakes her head turning towards the blonde.

"I'm doomed aren't I Chels?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean it's gonna be high school all over again. Little Savannah crushes over the senior boy when he just thinks of her as a sister whom he likes to tease."

Chelsea laughs abruptly causing Savannah to shush her when the boys look over confused.

"Chels!" Savannah hisses.

"I wouldn't be so sure of that Vannah, a lot has changed since then." Chelsea smiles bumping the girl softly.

Savannah shakes her head not convinced.

"Come on let's go help."

Chelsea shakes her head but follows anyway. How can two be so obvious yet so blind? The blond thinks to herself. Oh well, they'll figure it out eventually, she hopes at least, or else she might have to do some serious meddling.

"We are at one of the most haunted penitentiaries in the country and it is raining outside," Dakota says as they transition into the next part of the night.

"Wow, it is raining," Tanner exclaims as they walk outside.

Savannah immediately pulls up her hood and tightens the drawstrings on her hoodie.

"This building right here is Death Row."

"Oh wow, creepy," Savannah says as they step inside.

"The general manager of this place won't even go into this building," Dakota tells them just as Savannah slips on a wet patch.

Tanner shoots his hand out catching her before she falls too hard.

"Thanks."

"Different vibe."

"This is so much different."

Savannah is walking through the cells with the rest of the group when she feels a sudden headache creeping on. It makes her blink a couple of times in hopes it'll go away but no such luck.

"I'm not trying to be whiney but I swear as soon as we made it into this little area I got such a big headache." She tells the others.

"Really?" Tanner asks turning towards her with a frown.

"If it gets any worse let us know." Dakota chimes.

"I will."

That doesn't stop Tanner from trailing after the woman worriedly, keeping an eye on her as they find the stairway and make their way up the stairs. This doesn't go unnoticed by Alex who smirks to himself as he quietly follows after the group.

"Be careful," Tanner mutters to Savannah as the stairway has a good inch or so of water.

"I will."

"The cells are all open."

"That is creepy as heck like no thank you."

"What do you guys think?" Dakota asks as they walk down the hallway of open cells.

"It's the first time there have been cells that have all been opened we should all sit in one."

"Alrighty then. But if you guys close the door I am going to kick y'all butts." Savannah threatens as she walks into one and sets up her camera.

After they all get settled Dakota starts asking questions.

Sitting on the bed, Savannah glances to her right swearing she heard something rub against the wall. Seeing nothing she shakes her head and tries to listen to Dakota for any responses.

Almost immediately there is loud movement and all Savannah sees is Alex move quickly by her cell as he turns around to look for the noise.

"What?!" She exclaims peeking out of her cell.

"It sounded like something moving!" Alex claims.

After a moment Dakota whips out the obvious and explains how it works.

Tanner and Dakota both ask questions to no avail. So the group packs up and decides to head to the last building. Almost immediately once they leave that building Savannah's headache disappears.

"My headaches are gone."

"Really?"

"Like almost as soon as we stepped outside," Savannah says over the rain.

They begin running to the next building trying not to get soaked, both Savannah and Chelsea exclaiming 'holy crap' when a thunderclap booms above their heads. They make their way into the building and downstairs.

"Ohhhh... I know where we are. We're in the hole."

"Oh my god. This is where people almost went blind!" Savannah exclaims. "From being down here without light!"

"This is also where people were hung up by their thumbs and pretty much just left here to rot."

"That is terrible," Savannah whispers.

"Dude this sucks."

"Should we all sit in a cell again?" Tanner asks.

"Yeah, I can share with Chels."

"Thank god because I have a terrible feeling."

"So me, Chelsea, Savannah, and Tanner are gonna each sit in a cell. The girls are gonna share because there isn't enough. And Alex you're gonna stay out here which is crappy too."

"Mhm."

Savannah chuckles as she joins Chelsea in her cell. She stands next to her. The group begins to talk about the carvings on the wall.

"Wait!" Savannah calls turning her head as she hears something.

"I heard it too. Was that you, Alex?"

"No."

"Honestly I heard that too."

"Guys, be quiet," Chelsea says as she tries to listen.

Another bang rings out and Chelsea and Savannah look at each other in shock.

"Dude, that is seriously... that's upstairs!"

"I'm gonna go out there with Alex."

"Whatever is right above us, right in this area."

Alex and Dakota go upstairs to try and find what made the noise but the others stay put. Savannah swears she can feel someone behind her so she glances over her shoulder only to be met with the dark corner being barely lit by her camera light.

"What's wrong?" Chelsea asks her.

"Nothing I just thought...." Savannah shoots straight up as something grabs the hood of her jacket. She grabs Chelsea who screams as she pulls her out of the cell.

"Something just grabbed my hoodie!" Savannah yells trying to get Chelsea and her out of the cell.

"What happened?" Tanner shouts coming out of his cell.

"Oh my god! I swear I could feel something behind me and I looked behind me and saw nothing. I go to tell Chelsea that I'm fine and I feel something grab my hood and pull it down off my head!"

"Wow wow wow!" Alex and Dakota shout as they come running back down the stairs hearing Chelsea and Savannah scream.

"Something grabbed Savannah's hood and pulled it down!" Chelsea explained feeling just as freaked out.

"Do you think the camera caught it?"

"I don't know but I could feel like the hand pinch my hoodie and pull it down! I need to get out here right now!"

"Alright alright."

The cameras did indeed capture the action of the spirit pulling on Savannah's hoodie. The woman who was standing next to Chelsea to her side is talking and you can visibly see both their hands as suddenly a force pulls down her hoodie slightly causing it to pull farther back on her head.

Savannah is freaked out making Tanner grab the girl's camera's before she rushes out of the building. Once they get to the gear room Savannah plops down on a camera case. Shaking her head at the events that just happened.

"Are you okay?" Dakota asks gently.

"No I'm fine it's just a fricking ming blowing experience when I look behind me and see nothing. I turn back to Chelsea and I feel something that's not there touch me! I mean I'm just shocked and freaked out."

"Alright well, we need to hit one more location before we go to sleep on our own."

"Chelsea I want you to operate the Polaroid camera," Dakota says as he goes on to explain it to his sister.

"Hey." Savannah glances up as Tanner sits next to her.

"You sure you're alright, I mean that is crazy intense for your first ghost hunt."

Savannah nods her head.

"Yeah, I am fine. I mean it didn't hurt me or anything just a little scary. I'll be good though, definitely one for the memory books tho. My mom and Alan are going to freak out when I tell them all about this tomorrow."

Tanner chuckles.

"Oh heck yeah, they will or they will either demand you go home and hate us all for dragging you into this."

"Nah, my mom could never hate any of you."

"Alrighty guys. Ready to go."

"Mhm."

"This is the last place I wanna hit before we go sleep on our way. Which is cell 28. This is the James Earl Ray cell."

Savannah can't help but make a noise in disgust as they approach the cell.

"Dang."

"So you're saying the man who killed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, this was his cell?"

"Yeah."

"Good lord."

Tanner sets up the obvious as they all gather around the cell.

"James, you can come talk into that device or whoever is here with us right now."

"Entire."

"What did it say?"

"Entire?"

Savannah listens as they go back and forth asking questions. Waiting for the obvious to answer them.

"Mommy."

"What did that thing just say?" Savannah's voice rises in pitch as she's freaked out.

"Why did you say, mommy? Is it because they are girls in here?"

"Do you want one of us girls sot talk to you?" Chelsea asks.

"Well if you do you gotta say them now because we are about to move on," Savannah adds.

"Girls put your hoods down so they can see your faces."

The girls do, Chelsea shakes her hair out and Savannah throws the two braids Chelsea did for her over her shoulders. After Alex says the time they decide they should start moving on.

"Kiss."

"WHAT!?

"You want to kiss one of the girls."

"I don't think I would want to kiss you, sir. I still think you are a shit person."

"Agreed."

"How weird we are only getting answers and responses on the Ovilus."

"Kiss."

"Well gotta say getting hit on by a ghost is a first."

"That is disgusting."

"Let's get out of here."

The group makes their way back through the rain and into the gear room. Savannah makes Alex show her again how to change her battery, or more like makes him watch her do it to make sure she's doing it right. She grabs a Rem Pod for her sleeping location deciding she needs to try and be an actual explorer and do things like the others do.

"This is my experiment on fear, so we are all going to separate and sleep alone. You guys know this. We all agreed on this. I think we'll all experience more activity when we are alone. So what do you guys think are the four scariest rooms."

"The Hole," Savannah says immediately.

"I think the James Earl Ray Room is the scariest."

"I was gonna say that or the hallway in C Block next to the auditorium door that was terrifying."

"My scariest was probably the hospital."

"So Tanner's gonna write down all four locations and we are each gonna draw one out of a hat because it's all about luck."

"All about the luck of the draw baby." Savannah and Chelsea chorus causing the girls to laugh.

"Ladies first everybody."

Chelsea slowly reaches in.

"Yeah, so, that's so creepy for me."

"Oohh she got the James Earl Ray room!"

"This is where the obvious was going crazy when I was holding it!"

Dakota turns to Savannah.

"Alright, Vannah your turn."

"Alright," Savannah says rolling her shoulders back before pulling a piece of paper out.

"NOOOOOO!" She cries. "I got C Block next to the auditorium! I swear to god if I see a creeper I am going to run out of this building and all the way home!"

Dakota gets to the hospital and Tanner gets the hole. Savannah is dreading this next part but trying to hype herself up in her head. She suddenly regrets picking up the Rem Pod but knows it's not like she's going to get any sleep anyway. She's grateful however that Dakota is only one floor up if she needs him.

"Do you think I'm crazy for sleeping with the Rem Pod?" Chelsea asks as she gathers up her things.

"Do you think I'm crazy for sleeping with the Rem Pod?"

"Well, we gotta go all out for this one so cheers to crazy!"

"Cheers to crazy!" Savannah says bumping her Rem pod with the obvious.

"I'm off the hole!"

"I'm so glad I didn't get that one," Savannah murmurs as he leaves.

Alex goes with Tanner to get set up as Dakota, Chelsea, and Savannah make their way to Chelsea's location first. Savannah helps Chelsea set up her sleeping bag and things as Dakota sets up the camera.

"Stay here for a little bit," Chelsea begs.

"Okay." They agree and Savannah stands by the wall next to Chelsea.

"Goodnight."

Chelsea screams, Savannah jumps and yells and Dakota rushes over to the ovulis.

"It... it said goodnight!"

"Paranormal."

"It said Paranormal!" Chelsea blubbers freaking out. While Savannah squats next to her trying to grab the obvious from her to calm her down. The small group begins to freak out as it says Lay amidst all of their shoutings. Poor Alex comes rushing in wondering why all of his friends are screaming.

"You guys okay?" Alex comes in nearly scaring the crap out of Savannah.

"Dude you have no idea what just happened."

"I heard that from outside."

The group is freaked out once again when the virus says to sit down after Dakota complains about being all freaked out. Savannah no longer wants to sleep alone in fact she is about to fulfill her promise to run all the way home. She wonders if any cabs will pick her up at a haunted prison. Just as she's contemplating running the heck out of there, Dakota accidentally hits Chelsea in the face.

"Good gracious we are a mess."

"I'm already crying."

"Chels." Savannah comes hugging the girl softly before pulling away. "You got this you are like the toughest chick I know."

Dakota gives her a pep talk before insisting that Savannah and him go to their locations. Savannah doesn't want to but she puts on a brave face and follows after Dakota, Alex trailing behind them.

The group comes to the stairwell and Auditorium door and Savannah sighs, laying down her sleeping bag as the boys set up her camera and the rem pod. Alex gives her a quick debrief on how it works before they leave her to go set up Dakota's space. Alex comes back down a few moments later after helping Dakota.

"You got this Sav but radio me if you need me."

"Will do."

For the first time all night, Savannah is truly alone. It's pitch black and she can barely see anything, her flashlight barely makes a dent in the impending darkness. She glances down at her watch. It's only 2:30 which means Savannah is alone for at least 3 more hours. She sighs softly swiveling around to look everywhere with her flashlight.

"Savannah?"

"Shit!" She shouts as her walkie crackles. She laughs at herself for a moment before picking it up.

"Yeah, Dak?"

"Oh thank god you are the only one I can reach on walkie."

"Ah okay, well if you need me let me know."

"Same to you!"

Savannah sighs leaning her back against the wall as she looks around. Her walkie crackles once again with Dakota letting her know that they can reach Chelsea as well. Which is a bit of a relief. She was worried for her friend when she left. Now she's trying to remember the same thing. Don't show fear. Just as the thought enters her head she hears something.

"I hope the camera is picking this up but I hear scratching and I'm pretty sure it's coming from the auditorium door," Savannah whispers to the camera as she switches it around to video the camera.

It happens again and Savannah gasps.

"Like what is that?"

Just as she says the question the Rem Pod beeps once causing Savannah to swear and whip her camera around to view it.

"Oh my god, oh my god." She whispers as the rem pod slowly beeps again.

"Alright, whoever is here with me can you make the rem pod go off if you mean me any harm?"

Luckily for her, the rem pod stays silent and Savannah breathes out.

"So you aren't going to hurt me?"

The rem pod beeps.

"Are you angry that I'm here?"

It stays silent.

"Holy cow guys I am asking questions and I am getting direct responses from something," Savannah says to the camera.

"Were you a prisoner?"

Nothing.

"Were you a guard?"

Nothing.

"What are you then?"

The rem pod goes silent, and Savannah sighs shaking her head. Throughout the night she swears she hears something moving around in the auditorium which makes her jump multiple times. She tries to remain calm throughout the experience and also tries to document her encounters and talk them through on the camera. At one point she swears she can hear Dakota shouting but when she tries him on the radio she gets nothing.

Around 5:52 she hears something loud. And she sits straight up.

"Hello?" She calls out grabbing her flashlight to look around.

"Sav?"

She sighs loudly. "Oh my god Dakota a little warning next time geez about gave me a heart attack." The girl says as Dakota starts making his way down the stairs.

"Sorry, I just wanted to come and get you because we are done."

"Holy cow Dakota you are going to lose your shit when I tell you what happened to me last night."

"I honestly don't even know how we're going to do the rest of the night honestly," Dakota says.

BANG!

The two whip around and Savannah grabs Dakota's arm as she jumps up.

"What the..."

"Alright, we are out of here," Savannah says hurriedly getting her things to follow Dakota out of there.

They pick up Chelsea and head to the gear room. Dakota leaves to go grab Tanner and Savannah starts helping Alex gather all their things.

"So how'd you do last night?" Alex says as they begin packing up.

"So like I was getting responses from the rem pod. Like I told them to make it go off for yes, and I asked if it wanted to hurt me got nothing. Asked if it wasn't going to hurt me it lit up. Which was so bizarre because it was completely different from anything we got all night long. I swear I could hear moving, scratching, and running in the auditorium all night long it was just endless."

"Holy cow I can't believe you got direct responses."

"Honestly I am so shell-shocked about everything that happened last night. Like this night is gonna stay with me forever I have never been more fricking scared in my entire life."

They gather up all their things and go outside. Savanah sighs in relief at the light and the air. It was so stuffy inside the prison and she hated it. She tips her head back slightly as she walks.

"I could never live in Alaska where it's dark all the time I need the sun." She mutters as they walk towards the parking lot.

"Eh, I think you got enough sunshine for everyone," Tanner adds.

Savannah can't help but smile shaking her head softly at him.

"Ugh, I have never been so happy to see the RV."

"For real."

They all load onto the RV and Savannah is squished in between Tanner and Alex. They all start recounting the events of the night before with Tanner going first. All of them are completely in awe of everything they captured.

"I was honestly so scared last night on my own. I heard movement constantly and with the REM pod going off I was so scared but I just kept telling myself I had to keep going, but not gonna lie that was a little terrible and I felt like I needed to sleep for like five days, and then drown my sorrows in a bucket of ice cream."

"Well I'm not condoning ice cream for breakfast we should get something in you cause honestly you look so pale and tired." Alex teases.

"Lame."

The group laughs and Savannah can't help but lean into Tanner's side as the RV pulls out. She feels so exhausted both physically and mentally. If he cares he doesn't show it, even shifting a little to give her more space to sink into the couch. Chelsea's words ring into her head as she can feel herself nodding off. I wouldn't be so sure Chelsea had said. Could it be possible my feelings aren't one-sided? Savannah immediately disregarded that idea so sure that Tanner could view her as nothing more than as the annoying girl that Dakota had dragged into their mix all those years ago.  

Soon enough the group besides Alex crowds into the little space by the front window to watch for the location. Savannah ignores how close Tanner is pressed into her back as he stares over his head—focusing on aiming her camera out the window. Which is a little hard considering he towers over he and has her pinned to the dash his hips bumping hers every once in a while with the sway of the cars. She curses herself in her head, scolding internally for being so affected by the proximity. Although a voice in her head reminds her that he seems to make it a point to be close to her and touch her a lot she's been on this trip. She ignores that voice and shakes it out of her head.

Chapter Text

Alex glances over as he settles back down on the couch gently. He and Dakota had put up the cameras and their equipment wrapping up the content for Brushy. Tanner hadn't moved a muscle since Savannah sunk her head resting in the nook of his shoulder as she drifted off. While the girl did well and Alex was proud of his best friend he knew by just looking at her this morning it was extremely taxing on her. Alex gently picks up her feet and drapes them over his lap. Savannah doesn't even move. Then again the young woman has always been a heavy sleeper. When the group would have a sleepover and Savannah would tag along Alex And Dakota could get with so much while she was sleeping. Even going as far as to draw all over the girl's face, which ended up in Dakota's mom giving them a serious dressing down the next morning when she failed in helping the girl try to remove the ink.

Savannah's sophomore pictures are no way to be found because she refused to take any and was at a competition on remakes. To make it even worse Tanner visited that next weekend from college and burst into laughter upon seeing the young girl which only furthered her resolve that he would never see her any other way. She was just the young annoying sister-like figure. 

"She did pretty good for a newbie," Dakota muttered grabbing a blanket and draping it over her and the boys. 

"Yeah, she held her own very well." Alex agreed. 

"We should let her get a good little nap in but we should take her to eat. She hasn't had anything since like four yesterday." Tanner mutters gently fixing the the blanket over her. 

"You sure do pay attention to her a lot," Alex says a grin on his face. 

Tanner shakes his head. 

"No, I just remember 'cause she took a part of my sandwich." 

Dakota gasps. 

"Um no she did not take it. She commented how yours looks better and without a second thought you are switching your sandwiches, even tho hers had tomatoes on it and you hate tomatoes." Dakota says 

"Yeah, you're whipped Tan." 

"What?!" Tanner says glaring at his friends. "I don't do any more for her than you guys do." 

"Maybe so but Dakota and I also don't look at her like she hung the freaking sun." 

Tanner scoffs softly but his eyes trail down to the sleeping Savannah and can't help but love the serene look on her face. Savanah had always been pretty, Tanner noticed it even in high school but he didn't notice how simply absolutely gorgeous she was until she went off to college. He had remembered heading home for the holidays excited to see everyone including Savannah who hadn't been able to make it home until this point. She had been going to school in Massachusetts close to where her aunt lived and had been spending most of her breaks there. Even chose to work there the summer before she started college. So Tanner sat on the couch at the Laden household chatting with Tavian as Isabella was busy bugging Alex about the state of his hair. 

"Vannah's here!" Chelsea shouts rushing out the front door to greet the girl. 

Savannah stepped out of her car, immediately crushed into a hug by Chelsea. She squealed in happiness immediately hugging her back as the rest of the crew came out to greet her. 

"oh my goodness you've been gone for long!" Chelsea exclaimed holding the girl still as they turned to greet the others. 

Tanner stepped out onto the porch, and instead of the young girl he swore he left behind a beautiful woman stood in her place. She was glowing in her chunky green sweater and jeans, and her brown curls were free which was always Tanner's favorite. He stopped on the front steps watching the girl as his stomach twisted a little. How had he never noticed that she was this beautiful before, that her smile was illuminating? And why all of a sudden did he feel his heart beat faster as she turned to him a wide smile on her face as she put her arms out for a hug? It wasn't the same since then, not for Tanner at least. He tried to push it aside but it only grew into greater feelings. It was easy to hide when he only saw her a few times a year, but he knew it would become nearly impossible. He had only been with her for a couple of days and his resolve was already slipping. 

Alex shook his head laughing as he watched Tanner admire their friend. "Case and point Tan." 

Tanner ignored him turning away from her and staring out the window. 

"Just leave it be guys it's not going to happen." 

Alex and Dakota shared a look. 

"You two are fricking oblivious," Dakota mutters turning away and to his laptop to watch some of the footage. 

Tanner turns back to him for a moment confused by his statement but decides to ignore it and turn back away. 

-----

"Vannah." 

The woman turns away from the voice and tries to move away from the person shaking her shoulder gently. Which only causes her head to slip falling until it rests on Tanner's thigh. Laughing echoes around her which causes her to slowly open her eyes. 

"Morning sunshine." Tanner grins down at her. 

"What." Savannah mumbles confused lifting her head slightly. "Wow, you guys just let me use you as a bed." She grumbles as she spots her feet spread out across Alex's lap. 

"What else are we good for?" Alex jokes as Savannah pushes herself up and stretches out. 

"We're going to get food in a bit but I thought you would probably want to change," Dakota explains and the girl nods and pushes herself off the couch. 

"Thanks for being my pillow and footrest." She tells the boys before walking into the bunk room where Chelsea is. 

The girl grins up cheekily, and Savannah already knows what she's about to mention as she gathers clothes to change into. 

"Sooooooo... did you have a good nap?" Chelsea questions closing her journal and and sitting up on the bed. 

"I had a great nap," Savannah says simply tugging off her old clothes. 

"Yeah right on Tanner's chest." 

"It was his shoulder." 

"Uh-huh." 

Savannah shakes her head as she sits down against the bunk. 

"Chelsea I was convinced my crush was gone. I mean I moved on from that train a long time ago. But I'm back around him for like two days and I am back in high school giggling over him." Savannah says frustrated. 

"You are not giggling after him, you act like how you always do around him." Chelsea comforts. 

"Still I am an idiot." 

Chelsea shoots her a look.

"You are no idiot Savannah Eleanore Collins." 

"Yeah well, I am playing a losing game then." Savannah huffs gently undoing the braids and fluffing out her curls. 

Chelsea shakes her head. "I can't wait to be a bridesmaid at your wedding and tease you about this exact scenario," Chelsea says with finality. 

"You're delusional," Savannah says as she opens the door to walk out nearly running straight into Tanner's chest who was by the bathroom. 

"Why is Chelsea delusional?" He asks confused walking past her to gather his things. 

"Oh, nothing!" Savannah says abruptly grateful that the RV is pulling to a stop at that moment. "I gotta call my mom." She says as she rushes out. 

Tanner turns towards her with a confused expression as she rushes down the steps and out the door. The others watch her leave as well and Chelsea can't help but chuckle softly shaking her head at the spaz. Good cover Chelsea thinks sarcastically to herself. 

"Anyone gonna tell her that she left her phone," Alex mentions as he points to where it charges on the counter. 

"Crazy girl," Dakota mutters as he picks up her phone and goes to carry it out to her. 

Savannah is only a few feet away from the RV, plopped down on a bench as she mutters to herself. 

"Real smooth Sav," Dakota says as he plops down next to her. 

Savannah glares at him as she takes her phone from his hand. 

"What can I say I'm a spaz." 

Dakota decides not to tease her further and instead changes the subject. Instead, he glances down at her phone and sees multiple missed calls from Jeremy. It starts to ring in his hand and he groans. 

"I'm gonna answer it and tell him off." 

"No don't do that just ignore it," Savannah says reaching for her phone. 

Dakota grinned wickedly moving the phone out of her grip and standing. 

"Dak I'm serious!" She stands trying to grab the phone again. "I still have to work with that bastard! She shouts as Dakota begins to run away. 

"Hey, Joey!" Dakota answers a smug grin on his face. "No, you can't talk to Savannah because what she does is no longer your business." 

"Dak!" Savannah hisses practically trying to climb Dakota as he fights her off. 

"What is going on?" Alex asks as he comes out of the RV, Chelsea and Tanner both following him. 

"Now that it very mean thing to say, James, I'm Savannah's best friend," Dakota says and Alex quickly catches on gesturing for Dak to give him the phone. 

"Knock it off!" Savannah insists as Dakota passes the phone with a grin, trying to cage the woman in so she doesn't chase after Alex. 

"Hey Jose, now I have no clue what Dak was talking about because I'm Savannah's friend but you obviously can't take a hint so let me..." Alex sidesteps Savannah and she huffs throwing her hands up in the air. "You have no reason to contact her. I'll probably even be blocking you after this because this is getting borderline stalkerish but you need to leave her alone. Alright glad we could get that clear by Jacob." Alex says happily before disconnecting. 

Savannah huffs crossing her arms. "That was real mature." She comments as Alex messes with her phone before handing it back to her. 

"Why are you still being nice to him." 

Savannah rubs her temples feeling slightly frustrated. 

"Look there's a chance he's gonna get promoted and I do not need him to be having it out for me if he does. I'm trying to smooth things over to at least be cordial." Savannah explains. 

"You need a new job." 

Savannah shoots Chelsea a look. 

"My job is just fine." 

"Alrighty we can talk about Savannah's terrible job later I'm starving." Tanner cuts in effectively saving Savannah from Chelsea's comeback. 

Chelsea however has other plans, because she is kind of getting tired of the obliviousness. So she needs a way to convince Savannah that Tanner does not just view her in any way. So she grins as she loops her arm with Savannah's as they begin walking to the lunch place they had picked. 

"You know what's a subtle but good way to stick it to Jeremy?" 

"How?" 

"You just start seeing someone else," Chelsea says simply but her eyes are on Tanner who is walking a few steps in front of them, and who tenses at her words. 

"Why on earth would I want to jump into a relationship? Jeremy put me off guys for a while." 

"Oh come on what about that sweet guy you met at the coffee shop? Works as a paralegal? You said he was hot as heck" 

"Emmett?" Savannah says confused because she does remember him but she told Chelsea about him as a funny story about how the barista got their orders mixed up and she drank his god-awful coffee and they laughed about it later. She never once said he was hot... not that he wasn't bad-looking but still. 

"Chelsea, I never said he was hot," Savannah says. 

"Well I mean is he?"

"Well..." Savannah trails off. 

Tanner who is still a few steps ahead of them is not liking this conversation one bit. He shouldn't care not one bit but he does. He doesn't want Savannah dating anyone, that thought alone makes his stomach hurt. She's too kind, too sweet, she's his little angel, the one that nearly starts bar fights but radiates kindness in every step. Then Tanner becomes rigid because he keeps repeating one thing in his head "Not like any one would be good enough for my angel". Except she's not his not really. 

"You okay there Tanner?" Chelsea cuts in causing Savannah to turn towards him immediately concerned she speeds ahead a few steps. 

"Are you alright? You look a bit stiff. Feeling okay?" Savannah says concerned. 

Tanner forces himself to look down at her and once he sees that adorable concern on her face he smiles softly because he just can't help it. 

"I'm fine Angel." Then he turns and catches up to Alex and Dakota who are trying very hard to keep a straight face and hide the amusement from seeing the look on Tanner's face when Chelsea brings up Savannah dating again. 

He leaves Savannah confused who turns to Chelsea. 

"What was that?" 

Chelsea grins. "Delusional huh?"

Savannah gapes at the words, trying to think of something to say but she can't so she turns her head to focus on the impending storm clouds. 

"Whatever."

----------

HEHEHEHE I was giddy writing this chapter. I know it's a lot of dialogue but it was fun. I I will work on a longer chapter next. I am also deciding whether I should drag out Tanner and Savannah's getting-together. I mean they are kinda emotionally oblivious to the other. Anyway, enjoy!

Chapter Text

Would anyone be interested in an Alec Schroeder Fanfic?

Cause like.....

He's adorable and I love him but would anyone be interested? I might have an idea.

Comment below if you are!

Chapter Text

Hi Guys I am sorry I have been MIA and promise I will make it up to you. I need some help. My Uncle recently passed away and I do not have enough money to give him the proper grave or headstone he deserves. I have made a go-fund and I would appreciate it if you could share it or donate. I know not everyone will be able to help but i want to give him an amazing headstone. I'm trying to save up as much as I can from work, but with school tuition it's really hard. Please guys anything will help. 

https://gofund.me/0daacb70

Chapter Text

avannah sits outside in the grass as the others get ready for Dakota's little pit stop. They are close to the location she knows that, but Dakota refuses to give her or Chelsea any hints but she noticed a conversation from afar earlier with  Dak, Alex, and Tanner that looked suspiciously serious. She's trying not to think about it honestly so instead she's focusing on soaking up the sunshine that finally peeked out after lunch. She had just gotten off the phone with her mom and Alan and was feeling in pretty good spirits about that but her mind had been wandering since that weird interaction with Tanner when Chelsea was pushing her to date. He had seemed visibly angered by it, I mean he was nearly as tense when they go into haunted locations. 

Is he just worried I'll get another Jeremy?

Trying to protect me from another heartbreak?

Or does he care for some other reason?

Savannah pushed that last thought out of her head. She couldn't let it wander that way because hope would fill her belly and then she'd just be disappointed again like she was the summer after her freshman year of college. She had thought Tanner had begun to see her in a different light, she wasn't sure but she thought the way he looked at her was different. Then she came home happy to see him and hear all about the past year, especially about his football season. She had even flown home to see one of his games, she had been so proud when he won and had given him the biggest hug. She could have sworn there was something there that night. She was a fool though because when she returned home for the summer so did Tanner's girlfriend. Savannah was admittedly crushed, she had even cried about it, Chelsea had found her too which made it so much worse. Savannah insisted it was because of something else but Chelsea knew, of course she knew. 

"What's got you thinking so hard?" Tanner's voice broke the silence and caused her to snap out of her trance. 

She slowly tilted her head up at Tanner who was standing over her, a small smile on his lips before he settled next to her. 

"Nothing much," Savannah said simply refusing to meet Tanner's gaze. 

"You look pretty concentrated." Tanner insisted a little confused on why she seemed so intent on not looking at him. 

Crap was I too obvious earlier? Is she weirded out? Tanner thinks. 

"I'm not looking to date anyone you know." She speaks up after a moment "I just want you to know that."

Tanner can't help but feel relieved but he tries to play it cool nodding. "So there's no one that's caught your eye not even the coffee shop guy." 

Savannah shakes her head. "No, I wasn't interested in him."

"No crushes then?" Tanner doesn't know why he's asking. 

Savannah slowly turns to look at him. 

"No, well no new ones at least." With that Savannah stands up brushing herself off and offers him a hand. 

"Come on we should go make sure Dak hasn't murdered Chelsea for hogging the bathroom." 

Tanner allows her to help him up, but when she goes to walk away he remains frozen. Because what was that supposed to mean?! No new ones! Who the heck has she had a crush on in the past? I mean as far as he knew there was no one really before Jeremy. A boy in college that didn't work out and Savannah didn't even seem that brokenhearted about it. Was there someone else? Then there was the way she had looked at him when she said it as if she was trying to gauge his reaction. But it couldn't be him, could it? He shook his head softly to himself, he couldn't think about this now he needed to get his head in the game, especially with this entity that solely attacks women. He watched Savannah head into the RV and the gentleman in him did not watch the way her hips swayed as she walked. 

God, he thinks, Savannah Collins who is gonna be the death of me. 

------

"Do I need to grab a camera, Al?" Savannah asks as she enters the trailer, she isn't expecting it to nearly run into him as she opens the door. 

"What were you and Tan talking about?" Alex asks a cheeky tone to his voice. 

Savannah's eyebrows scrunch up at his tone. 

"Not much why?"

Alex shakes his head. "Nothing just wondering how long this flirting is gonna go on before one of you makes a move" 

Savannah's eyes widen as she quickly glances behind her happy to see Tanner is a few feet away. 

"Shut up Alex I wasn't flirting!" She hisses pushing him back further into the RV. "I don't like Tanner like that he's just a friend like you guys." She gestures to the group. 

Dakota, Chelsea, and Alex all turn to her giving her the biggest 'Do you think we're dumb' look. Savannah glares at each of them. 

"Can you guys just shut up about it? Good lord, I do not need Tanner to know, how embarrassing that would be." Savannah plops down on the couch with a huff. 

Alex scoffs. "I can't believe you two are that dumb." 

What Savannah and Tanner both don't know is that their friends have been rooting for this for a very long time. I mean pretty much since Savannah was 20, and they realized that the young woman's feelings weren't one-sided anymore. There was even a side bet going on about when the two would finally break and get together. Which then became a stipulation that no one could force their hand. It wasn't even just Dakota, Chelsea, and Alex in on the bet. All of the Laden clan were in on it. Connor, Savannah's mom and step-dad, Tanner's mom, and many others had been saying for years how cute the two would be as a couple. There was even a group chat with all these people in it updating their bets on when it would happen. Since it was announced that Savannah was going to join Destination Fear the group chat had been bubbling with new guesses. Tavian Laden had already lost saying that with all these years of tension bubbling up between the two it was sure to break in the first three days. Well, it had officially been four and he was dead wrong. 

Savanah ignores him and pretends to be very invested in her nail beds when Tanner climbs back onto the RV. Although it is obvious to everyone that the girl's cheeks are burning read. 

"Alright guys so I've heard about an incredible overlook that will allow us to look at seven states at once." Dakota chimes as the RV starts moving again. 

Savannah is thrilled to do something other than be stuck in an RV. She's practically bubbling with excitement about getting to stretch her legs and enjoy the outdoors by the time they pull into the pit stop. 

"Ah dang, it's cloudy again." She complains as they climb out of the RV. 

"I thought you liked the rain."

"Yeah well, I've been cooped up in the gloomy doomy prison I want some sunshine," Savannah argues. 

Her friends laugh. 

The team talks aimlessly to themselves pointing out the different things they walk through the attraction. 

"Tanner I swear to god if you don't stop jumping on the dang bridge I am throwing you off of it." Savannah threatens as they come across the rope bridge, the woman tightly gripping the railings as it sways. 

"Awe come on are you scared angel?" 

"I'm gonna kill you I swear." She mutters to herself. 

A little while later Savannah plops down next to Chelsea as they had just gone through the fat'mans squeeze. Luckily her claustrophobia didn't act up too much and she was enjoying the beauty of the little walkways she was in. Dakota joins shortly after and Savannah can just tell her little bubble of happiness is about to be shattered. 

"I don't want to scare you because I know that, like you guys are strong and you can both handle this, but the next location we're going to, the most prominent spirit is an evil one, and it only attacks women." 

Savannah drops her head into her hands taking a deep breath. Chelsea doesn't say anything just stares rigidly at her brother. 

"I am worried about you guys. I actually really am because even just last week at this location another female was attacked." 

"That pisses me off. You know both me and especially Savannah are new at this. You know this is all new to the both of us." 

As much as she loves Dakota Savannah can't help but agree, dread fills her stomach at an alarming rate. 

"I promise you that's not why I picked this location, and I told Tanner before you both because I wanted him to know that this is what we're going up against. There's lots of other spirits but we need to have..."

"We, it sounds like me and Savannah." 

 "What did it do to women." Savannah finally pipes up lifting her head to finally look at Dakota. 

"So it scratches women. It's pushed women. One woman was thrown up against a wall. It's been known to just follow them after they go into the location and attach themselves, kind of like an evil entity normally does. They call it the creature." 

"That's terrible."

"Dakota I can't even believe you right now, I mean what the hell," Savannah says her tone tight. 

"I know, but look me, Tanner and Alex are gonna be on our A-game of just keeping an eye on the both of you." 

"Yeah but how much can you do when we separate and sleep alone? I mean we are isolated and even if we shout it could take you guys a couple of minutes to get to us and a lot can happen in a couple of minutes." Savannah argues pushing herself up suddenly feeling the need to move. 

"It's not gonna be easy for sure. But I know we can do this." 

"Alright well thanks for that, I need to talk a walk," Savannah says not even grabbing her camera as she just turns and goes down the path to her right. 

She ends up making a loop and slowly walks back to the others. Alex is nowhere to be found presumably getting a shot of them from god knows where. Chelsea immediately loops an arm through hers as she goes to stand next to her. Savannah gently squeezes her arm. They are in this together. 

"So I told them," Dakota says to Tanner but he knew already from the look on Savannah's face. 

That little bubble of happiness and sunshine had faded, and now Savannah looked more anxious than before. She was chewing on her lip and staring out into the space, no doubt going through every scenario in her head about the overnight. 

"You guys are gonna be fine, we will take care of you," Tanner reassures. 

The words do little to ease Savannah's anxiety and she just nods, but she doesn't believe them not really. The group continues to explore for a while but Savannah is mostly silent, walking along with them for a while. Alex eventually falls back to be next to her. 

"You're gonna be just fine you know. We aren't going to let anything happen to you." Alex assures her but she shakes her head. 

"I have no doubt you guys will do everything in your power to protect me but I am not strong enough for this Alex. I mean it I don't think I thought this through all the way I don't know if I could handle this." Savannah says her voice cracking slightly. 

"Sav you are one of the strongest persons I know. Remember what we said earlier you just got to face it head-on. Mark my words after this road trip you are going to be able to stand up to anything." 

Savannah sighs still not convinced. 

"If all that fails just imagine the punks face who you nearly started a bar fight with." 

That causes a laugh and Savannah smiles softly turning to him and leaning in to hug his arm. 

"Always with the comedic relief." She mumbles against his arm. 

"The least I could do, you nearly went to jail for me." 

Eventually, the group makes it back to the RV. And Savanah seems in slightly better spirits as she climbs on board, still talking along with Alex. She was insistent that she wasn't going to actually fight the guy that night but just give him a firm talking to but Alex did not believe her at all. When they stop at the location to do the packet read, Savannah begrudgingly follows the group as they go to read the packet.  

If Savannah was feeling any better it quickly faded as she listened and read the information on the packet. It feels heavy as they make their way back onto the RV. Chelsea immediately walks back to the bed and groans loudly as she flops down onto the surface. 

"Vannah I need cuddles!" Chelsea yells out and Savannah grins. 

"Ice cream?" She says as she pulls it out from the freezer. 

"You are my rock!" Savannah grins and quickly climbs in next to Chelsea. 

"Hey, I want cuddles too!" Alex shouts running and nearly tackling Savannah as he dives onto the bed. She laughs raising her arm so she doesn't lose the ice cream. 

Eventually, the whole team piles onto the bed, passing around the ice cream as they watch a show on the TV that they realize they have. Eventually, everyone slowly pulls away getting ready for bed. Savannah is the first to pass out using Alex's arm as a pillow as she snores. Alex doesn't move, just tells Dakota to hand him a blanket so he can fall asleep. 

----

Savannah flops down onto the couch as they enter the RV from talking with a woman who had a ghostly encounter with a doctor. Chelsea falls next to her and Savannah glances up at her. 

"I heard there's a spa not far from here. Wanna ditch the overnight and go do that instead." Savannah asks as she peers up at her. 

"Don't tempt me." 

Savannah sits up and Chelsea moves to the booth with Tanner. 

"Let's try to find that room she was in tonight and go in there and maybe act like a patient or just sit there like a patient would," Dakota says as they get going again.

Dakota screams as a semi-truck passes, causing everyone else to jump. 

"We are gonna be so screwed!" 

"I have so many mixed emotions I'm scared, I'm nervous but I'm also so fricking excited."

"I can't wait." 

"Well, I'm glad someone is excited because I'm scared shitless I'm gonna see the creature," Savannah says. 

"Same!" 

The group cuts their cameras for now and Savannah's phone buzzes. Dakota looks at her making a face that truly only he could muster.

"Relax I didn't unblock Jeremy my mom is face-timing me." 

"Mama Millie!" Dakota shouts and Savannah laughs as she answers it. 

Her mom's face comes into the frame and Savannah can't help but beam. 

"Hi, mama." She greets. 

"Hi, Mama Millie!" Everyone else yells. 

"Hi, guys. I was trying to catch you guys before you go to the location because I wanted to say good luck and look after my baby." 

"Don't worry we will," Dakota assures poking his head into the frame. 

"Good now stay safe and I love you all." 

Savannah quickly shows the phone to everyone so they can wave goodbye before she faces it back to herself. 

"Love you too mama." 

"Your mom is the sweetest Vannah," Alex says. 

She grins. "I know." 

She glances down when her phone chimes. 

Mama ❤️: Tanner is looking mighty handsome. 

Savannah shoves her phone in her pocket but with the look Dakota sends her she knows he saw it and she tries to keep her head down in hopes it will hide the blush. I  mean seriously, she needs to get her shit together, she is 24 years old and is acting like a teenager all over again.  

Once again Savannah finds herself squished in between Chelsea and Tanner as they are away for the location. She focuses on her camera and not on Tanner pressed firmly against her back, he seems to really like that particular spot.  

"That's it." 

"Alright, ladies and gents let the games begin." 

Chelsea laughs. 

The RV parks, but not before Hallie the driver comments them invading her personal space too much which they ignore. She's such a grump which Savannah hates. Soon Savannah is helping unload equipment as they file into the haunted hospital. She doesn't want to step inside at all but she follows after her friends anyway, setting up their base camp in a little outside alcove. She grabs her camera, which Alex built for her, thank goodness because she nearly put on the wrong attachment at Brushy. 

"Old South Pittsburg here we go," Dakota says and Savannah takes in a deep breath before following after him. 

You've got this she tells herself repeatedly. 

"Are these the elevators the doctor died in?" 

"Oh, good memory!" 

"These are the elevators that the doctor died in." 

"Yeah, he had a heart attack on the first floor, and by the time he reached the third he was gone." 

"That is so sad," Savannah says softly. 

Nothing had happened so far, as the team wandered the halls of Old South. It was a maze, and Savannah was hoping that one of them remembered their way around because she sure as hell didn't. They explore the whole first floor with nothing notable so Dakota suggests they go up to the second. It's been quiet too quiet and it's making Savannah nervous as they wander the second floor. So when Dakota hits the railing on the wall she nearly flies into the opposite wall to get away. 

"OH MY FUCKING GOD!"

Everyone is shouting and yelling before Chelsea turns to her brother. 

"That was you." She tells Dakota matter of fact. 

"No, it wasn't." He says defensively. 

"Yes, it was." She says gesturing to the railing and Savannah sighs in relief. 

"I do not like this location at all I feel so weird and like anxious. I don't know this is way worse than Brushy." Savanah explains as they wander pushing further into the prison. They come across the x-ray room and many other rooms. Savannah is in shock about all the medical equipment that was just left behind. 

"Something about hospital hallways is just so eerie." 

They come to the end of the second floor and huddle at the stairway. 

"Third floor?" 

Savannah and Chelsea look at each other. 

"Let's just get this over with." 

Savannah takes a deep breath and moves to follow the others. Tanner leads the way and Savannah can't help but feel fear grab ahold of her tightly. She tries to shake the feeling and feel brave as she climbs the stairs but can feel it in her throat and stomach. No matter the inner pep-talks she knows it will not go away. 

"I don't like it." 

"This is the worst floor. There are claims of an entity that only attacks women and there's a ghost of a little boy named Buddy." Dakota explains as they make their way further onto the floor. 

Savannah stays quiet, she knows if she talks she's just gonna want to run her butt back down to the second floor. It's the second location and she doesn't know how she's gonna keep going to scarier and scarier locations. She follows her friends closely, trying to film every room she passes despite the fact she's terrified to see the Creature. When she steps into the OR she feels the biggest bout of dread she's ever felt. 

The group makes its way into the room where the lady had her encounter and decides to sit down and go quiet. Dakota and Tanner begin asking questions but get no response. Chelsea is the one who hears movement but the third floor is uneventful besides the suffocating dread Savannah has felt since the second she stepped foot up there. Savannah only feels like she can breathe a little bit when she returns to the gear room for a break. 

"You've been quiet tonight," Chelsea says as she drinks some water. 

"I don't like this location at all Chels," Savannah mutters. 

When the boys come back from they decide to split up into groups. Savannah goes with Dakota and Alex while Chelsea and Tanner go together. Before they split up Tanner slides next to Savannah slightly bumping her shoulder. 

"You alright there angel?

"Yep just don't like this place," Savannah doesn't even look at him tho her eyes are fixed on a crack in the wall. 

"You know if you looked at me while you said it I would feel much better." 

Savannah slowly turns her head to look at him and finally meets his gaze. Like always it's warm and soft and Savannah finds herself searching for something different this time. She can feel her heart starting to quicken in her chest. She focuses on the wall next to his head. Now is not the time. 

"I'm fine Tan I promise." She says softly. 

"You got this Angel, bravest girl I know remember that." With that, Tanner pushes off the wall and walks over to Dakota who is beckoning him over. 

"Alright time to do this," Savannah mutters to herself as she makes her way over to Alex who has a smirk she wishes she could smack him for. 

"Shut up." She hisses to him, although there's this creeping feeling in her gut that maybe Chelsea isn't as delusional as she claimed she was. 

------

Okay, I am sorry if you guys wanted more of this chapter for some reason I cannot get into a writing headspace. I'm having trouble writing the ending of this chapter so I'm just gonna split it into two parts that way you guys can get something and I can continue to work on the next chapter.  I also thought about putting some chapters in where the group was younger, like when Dakota and Savannah first met, and other things to get a glimpse of Savannah's little old crush on Tanner and maybe Tanner slowly catching feelings for Savannah but idk. Lemme know what you think and Enjoy!

Chapter Text

Minnesota 2010

Freshman Year

Savannah stood in the dining room of her new home. It had been around three weeks since she officially moved to Minnesota with her mom and stepfather. Since everyone had been busy getting settled into new jobs and routines this was one of the few rooms that hadn't fully been unpacked, and Savannah knew it was driving her mom crazy. She had started school a week ago, and had liked it but still felt out of place. Meeting with her guidance counselor helped and the girl had asked to sign up as a tutor for the tutoring program and some other small after-school groups. She wanted to be in dance or cheer but she would have to wait until next year to sign up. She could volunteer to help out with the dance squad but couldn't be a part of the team yet. Savannah was better when she stayed busy. 

"Whatcha doing baby girl?" Charlie asked as he entered the room finding his daughter perched on a stool as she put some of her mother's nice china away into the cabinet. 

"Trying to get some of this put away for Mama she's been stressing about the dining room, your home early for work," Savannah commented smiling at him. 

Charlie had truly been a godsend in the two females' lives. Charlie had known Millie for years, being a close friend of the families, and when Savannah's dad up and left it was hard for the girls. Millie was working extremely hard to bridge the income gap and ensure Savannah was doing okay. Charlie came in to offer a shoulder and some extra help, and along the way, Millie and he just fell in love. It was beautiful and sweet and Savannah loved the story of how they fell in love. Savannah adored her stepdad and loved how he treated her mother. Charlie was her dad, and Savannah was his daughter and no one could argue that fact.  

"Well that's very nice of you but I would prefer if you would use the step ladder instead of perching on that stool."

"Why are you home so early," Savannah said ignoring him and grabbing more plates to put away. 

"Well I know this move has been stressful so  I figured I would get home early to take my girls out to dinner. I was thinking sushi." 

Savannah lit up. "Yes please!" 

"Alright well your mom should getting home shortly why don't you change." 

Savannah nodded jumping off the stool causing Charlie to scowl at her and then grumble at her on how she was going to break her arm. As Savannah changed into some warm clothing to go outside for the night her open laptop buzzed with an email. She glanced over at it and her eyes widened. Someone already requested a new tutor and since she didn't have any students yet she was chosen. She was a little excited to get a student so soon. She would be tutoring him in Math and Science, which math was her specialty and she was asked to go to school early the next day to meet him. His name was Dakota Laden and he was a freshman just like her. 

Savannah excitedly told her parents at dinner, both of who were excited for the young girl. They both knew she was struggling slightly with the move, she had understood why they had to. Charlie and her mom had both gotten amazing job opportunities and it was time to leave Texas behind. But leaving Texas also meant leaving the dance team, debate, figure skating, all of her friends, and more. She was trying to be a team player, Savannah was nothing if not an optimist so she didn't complain not once. But her parents could tell, and so they were happy she was finding something to do. The girl hated having too much time on her hands, and she was already looking at ice rinks where she could ice skate. 

Savannah was up bright and early, she was trying to hide her excitement about getting to tutor someone and potentially meet some friends. She had tried to talk to some of her classmates but not everyone had been so welcoming. The closest she had gotten was a girl named Hilly in her social studies class but the sweet quiet girl was more content to spend her days in books, which Savannah couldn't blame her for, and respected her desire to keep to herself. 

"Well, you look cute sweetie." Millie Collins cued as her daughter bounded down the stairs. 

Thanks, mama, want to make a good first impression on my first day of tutoring." Savannah said gladly accepting the plate of breakfast Charlie was handing her. 

"Well, I'm sure you're gonna be great baby girl." 

Savvanah ate her breakfast quickly, accepted her mom's offer to drive her to school, and before she knew it, was checking into the tutoring center part of the library. Nerves began to set in a little bit as she read over the introduction tutoring sheet. 

"Savannah Collins?" A voice piped up causing the girl to turn. 

"You must be Dakota Laden, it's nice to meet you," Savannah said offering a smile. 

"Nice to meet you Savannah, I don't think I've seen you around before." He commented as he took a seat. 

"Oh, I just moved here from Texas."

"Oh cool, well I appreciate you tutoring me. My parents are threatening to make me quit film club and some other things if I don't get my grades up."

"It's no problem really, so today will just be an introductory. Talk about the points you need help on, and how this is gonna work." 

"Alright sounds good."

"Okay so I want you to write down all the points from the syllabus or past tests you've had trouble with. I also have a copy of your syllabus to help you prepare for upcoming homework and things.  Now we don't have to meet before school or at the library if you don't want to. We can meet after school or someplace else that you want like a coffee shop or your house." 

Dakota shook his head. 

"We probably shouldn't meet at my place. There's just some umm." Dakota trailed off. 

"Oh alright no, I don't want to pressure you I just wanted to give you options." 

Dakota sighed feeling bad for snapping.

"It's not that it's just my house is kinda sorta haunted." 

"Oh!" Savannah exclaimed her eyes widening. "Really?" 

"That's not the normal reaction," Dakota said shyly scratching the back of her neck. 

"Oh sorry, it's just." Savannah glanced around. "I grew up in a haunted farmhouse in Texas. I've just never met someone else who has had that experience." 

"Really?" Dakota said excitedly. 

"Yeah, me and my cousin used to try to communicate with the ghosts with crayons when we were younger. It was silly." 

"Well, I guess that's one way!" Dakota laughed

The conversation quickly divulged away from tutoring and into their ghost experiences. As the weeks went on, Savannah and Dakota grew quite close. She helped him raise his grades from D's to B's and Dakota gave her a friend. She hadn't met his other friends yet, they mostly hung out at her place during tutoring, and afterward watched some bad horror movies. 

"You should come it would be fun." Dakota encouraged as he lay sprawled down on the floor of her living room, his chemistry book tossed to the side.

"Are you sure I wouldn't impose?" Savannah asked scribbling down some notes for her tutoring work. 

"No! They've been dying to meet you too, I've told them a lot about you. You'd like them, they're cool." 

"Alright, I'll come to the bonfire." 

A few days later, dressed in a fluffy maroon sweater Savannah would meet the people that would change her life. Dakota had assured her she would get along with his friends, and he was right. An hour into the party she was beating Connor at darts, and trying hard to not stare at the incredibly cute senior Tanner Wiseman who stood to the side egging her on to beat his friend. Nothing would be the same again, and a very long crush would start that night and not end for over a decade. 

------------

Hi Guys, enjoy a short little episode into the past life of Savannah and how she met Dakota. If you guys don't like it I'll get back to the regularly scheduled programming. But since Uncle Richie I've hard time concentrating. So I hope you like it. 

Chapter Text

Savannah stared at the polaroids taken by Chelsea and Alex in shock. She had seen a lot of pictures of ghosts in the past. Which was always met with a teensy bit of skepticism, but when it's taken in real-time right in front of you it's a whole different feeling. She shook her head in shock and leaned back. Tonight was shaping up to be quite the night and she had barely started. The anxiety brought on by the creature was wearing her down, and she didn't know how she was gonna make it through all the other locations.

"So." Dakota starts.

And Savannah can't help but groan.

"What?" Dakota laughs.

"It's just I know that tone and I know that whatever is stewing around in that brain of yours is no good," Savannah explains waving her hands around rapidly.

Tanner laughs from his spot behind her.

"Well, I do have an idea, specifically for the girls."

"No." Chelsea and Savannah chorus.

"You guys might like it!" Alex argues.

Savannah gives him a doubtful look.

"What if we send one of your girls alone on the third floor."

"We're gonna like it!"

"You have both lost your mother-fluffing mind!" Savannah exclaims shaking her head rapidly.

"Listen if you do it you don't have to sleep up there."

"Neither of us has to sleep up there. If one of us does it, neither of us has to sleep up there." Savannah argues loudly.

"Yeah!" Chelsea agrees.

"Alright, that sounds fair. We will be right there, in the stairwell if anything goes wrong."

"Jesus H Roosevelt Christ," Savannah says going to rub her temples as she leans forward in her chair.

A hand reaches out to rub her back gently. She doesn't have to look to know that the warm calming hand belongs to Tanner. Savannah sighs before lifting her head to glance at Chelsea, who has already had a rough overnight. So she rolls out her shoulders.

"I'll do it."

"Sav!" Chelsea exclaims as well as the hand rubbing circles on her back tenses.

"Are you sure?" Chelsea asks her voice softer.

"Yeah, I'm sure."

"Alright well then."

"This is so freaking messed up." Chelsea mumbles

"This is messed up," Dakota says. "But you'll do it Savannah?"

"Yeah, I'll try it."

"See that's why we brought you along Sav. You're a badass." Dakota comments.

"Such a badass."

Savannah shakes her head smiling softly at her friends and stands. "Give me a minute."

Savannah walks away giving herself a pep talk and as calm as she outwardly appears she is losing her crap on the inside. The others begin to prep for the rest of the night, checking batteries and grabbing equipment. However, it isn't long before a tall figure approaches her side. Savannah turns to Tanner and offers him a smile.

"You're looking a bit pale Tanner are you sure you're not the one about to face an aggressive spirit?" Savannah teases trying to lighten the mood.

"I just wanna make sure you're okay and sure about this."

Savannah chews on her bottom lip. She doesn't want to be a wuss or make the others do all the hard things. The whole point of this trip is to push yourself. The others don't seem to be making a big deal out of it, but here is Tanner standing in front of her looking like she told him she just told him she never wanted to him again. This wasn't a normal friend reaction. Was it? Savannah thought

"Would you be checking so intently if it was Chelsea?" Savannah suddenly blurts and Tanner pauses a sheepish look overcoming his face.

"Chelsea's done this before I'm just worried about you," Tanner says although it doesn't have his normal vindication. Savannah didn't notice that tho, all she heard was Tanner's doubt in her.

Savannah nods and turns towards him fully.

"I'll be fine Tan." She says before patting him on the shoulder and moving towards Dakota.

Savannah doesn't know why she's disappointed in Tanner's answer. By all means, it sort of made sense, but once again, Savannah feels like the annoying little sister Tanner is inclined to check in on and protect. Nothing had changed she was still just that little sister figure.

"Sav." Tanner caught her arm gently, causing the girl to look up in surprise.

"I wouldn't have checked if it was Chelsea. She's Chelsea, you're Angel, you're special Sav."

Savannah suddenly felt warmth fill her chest despite the lurking doom she was about to face. There it was again that look in Tanner's eyes as he looked at her. It wasn't the same as it used to be, but when did it change? She's imagining it surely, Savannah tells herself, but she doesn't mind reveling in it a little bit longer.

"You guys ready?" Alex interrupts and Savannah whips around breaking herself out of the bubble she created.

"Let's do this bitches." Savannah says before freezing. "Crap sorry John, I know I promised not to cuss as much my bad," Savannah says into the camera which causes the group to bust out laughing.

"Alright crazy let's go," Alex tells her.

Savannah's moment of peace quickly fades as she climbs the stairs to the third floor. Dread quickly fills her stomach, and she's sure any ghost in this building can probably feel her heart hammering in her chest. As they reach the landing Savannah takes a big breath.

"I swear if I scream. Ya'll better move your a-butts."

"Nice save."

"We'll be there promise," Tanner says over Alex, and Savannah nods.

She moves slowly to the door.

"Nuh uh, we're standing. None of this sitting down crap, we're going to be ready." Chelsea fusses as Dakota moves to sit down.

Savannah chuckles softly before grabbing the door handle.

"It's so freaking dark." She hisses as she moves to step in. "I can't see a thing."

The door closes behind her, and Savannah wants to run straight back out of it. Then she remembers that her reaction will be broadcast to the world so she pushes on.

"Next time Dakota shows up on my doorstep with a fun idea guys, I am slamming the door in his face," Savannah says to her camera as she walks down the hallway.

"I can't believe they thought this was a good idea," Savannah mutters as she spans her camera around to show the dark hallways.

As she comes to a T in the hallway Savannah swears she can hear tapping on a door. She freezes trying to whip her camera around to see what it could be in the dark. She tells herself it's a mouse. She walks around the hallways for a little while, nearly getting herself lost multiple times before she comes to the spot by Buddy's room.

"I need to sit down for a second feel like I'm going to faint." She whispers as she sits.

"I feel really bad for the little boy up here named Buddy. I just know that all he probably wants is to play and to be with people, and yet he's isolated and alone... what the fuck was that." Savannah hisses as footsteps can be heard in front of her.

She whips the camera around but sees nothing. The footsteps continue, and Savannah can do nothing but sit frozen in her chair.

They still for a moment.

"I am hearing footsteps all around me and... AHHHH," Savannah screams bucking over with her head down and all of a sudden the footsteps grow ten times louder charging at her, she could even feel the wind on her face as it charged her.

"Savannah!" The guys scream, but she remains still her head down shaking as she tries to regulate her breathing.

"Sav!" They're closer now.

"Angel." Tanner breathes instantly crouching down in front of her and

Savannah moves instantly shoving her head into his shoulder. She doesn't give two craps if everyone thinks she's a baby.

"I need to get out of here now," Savannah says pulling away and standing.

Tanner follows suit, a gentle hand on her arm.

"What happened?" Dakota questions.

"I think the creature charged at me." Savannah manages to get out but her voice cracks.

"You're alright, you're safe," Tanner mutters to her softly.

"I wanna get out of here," Savannah says louder this time.

"Alright, alright come on," Tanner says keeping a hand on her back.

As soon as she got outside Savannah sat down and took a deep breath. Tanner sat down next to her, throwing her into a different kind of tailspin.

"Okay okay, I'm good I'm sorry that was a lot I just had to get out of there."

"It's alright don't apologize," Tanner assured her.

"I kept on hearing footsteps and they went quiet so I started to kind of explain and all of a sudden the footsteps were rushing at me, and like I know it wasn't a person but I felt the wind on my face!"

"You felt wind?" Dakota exclaims.

"Yes like I know no one was there, just look at the camera footage! But not only could I hear the footsteps rushing at me! I felt the wind as it rushed me! And okay I guess if I wanna play the "Was it a ghost or wind outside game. We were up there earlier and the little T I was in had no open windows and where I was sitting would be blocked. Also, the coincidence it would be for the wind to rush my face as soon as footsteps were is statistically not gonna happen!" Savannah explained, her voice coming out rushed, her words mumbling together.

"That is insane."

"I'm so proud of you I can't believe you did that for me," Chelsea said hugging the girl.

"Alright, I'm fine I just need a minute, so you guys can go and set up for the rest of the night I'm just gonna sit here in the fresh air for a bit longer."

"Take as much time as you need," Alex assured her before standing with Dakota.

Savannah took a deep breath and leaned back on her hands. The wind felt nice on her face, and she was glad she never had to step foot on the third floor again. She would be lying though to say if the thought of going back in the building period didn't fill her with thread. She had thought all the others had left until Tanner's voice broke the silence.

"I'm sorry Angel." He said softly.

Savannah turned surprised, her heart sinking at the look on Tanner's face.

"You have nothing to apologize for Tan."

"We pushed too hard, this was too much."

"Tanner I am fine."

Tanner turned his head, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed hard.

Savannah turned, rising to her knees slightly so she could be at his eye level.

"Look at me." She said softly. "I know you want to protect me and take care of me because that is just who you are. But I signed up for this, I watched the documentary I knew what I was getting myself into. Yes, that is the scariest thing that has probably happened to me, but I am in one piece, and I am sure when we watch this back eventually we will laugh at my screams and the dorky face I made. This is just going to make me stronger."

Tanner sighed searching Savannah's face before nodding.

"If you're okay I'm okay," Tanner said softly.

Savannah offered him a soft smile.

"You gotta stop worrying about me so much."

"Not possible angel."

Savannah could feel his breath on her cheeks.

"It's gonna age you." She said back softly, she wasn't sure how they ended up so close.

"Don't care."

Savannah could see the flecks of color in his eyes now, and how they kind of twinkled this close. She could see the dimple poking out of his cheek as that small smile took place. But most importantly she could feel the breaths of air leaving his lips on her face. His lips were so close, that she didn't know how he wasn't hearing the hammering of her chest because of the feelings it brought her.

"Tan..."

"Hey guys...ohhhhhh crap... never mind!" Dakota shouted, but it was too late.

Savannah and Tanner's bubble burst and they moved away quickly. Savannah was so glad for the pitch black because she felt like her cheeks were on fire. Damn, her stupid crush and damn Dakota. Tanner remained calm, despite the fact he was cursing Dakota in his head, and sent the woman his normal dopey grin.

"Alright angel, guess it's time to be even more badass."

Savannah smiled and nodded, accepting the outreached hand he offered, and headed back inside. Although as soon as she entered she wanted to strangle her friends. Dakota must have spilled the beans about how close the two were because her friends were looking like the cat who ate the canary.

"Well, you seem much more... calm," Alex said a tease to his tone.

"Wonder what the fresh air will do. Now you ready to sleep with some ghosts b..buddies!" Savannah quickly switched causing Tanner to snort from behind her.

"Nice save Sav. Nice save."

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Is this what you guys wanted? I rewrote it twice because I wanted it to seem natural and not too overbearing. It was fun to write and I seriously enjoyed it, this book has been a good distraction from my personal life. I hope you enjoy it.