It was a peaceful afternoon, perfect for a family picnic. The sun filtered through the trees, the children laughed, carefree. We had laid our blanket near a small grove, away from the main trail.
Everything seemed idyllic… until our daughter wandered off slightly, fascinated by a strange-looking tree.
— Mom, Dad, come see! The tree has stripes, it looks so pretty!
She was getting closer, curious, her hand reaching out. But something felt off.