The Secret Lake

Anna loved walking in the hills near her new town. Like many people who move somewhere fresh, she wanted to explore everything: the old houses, small forests, and far roads. But there was one place she always saw on her maps, written only as “Hidden Lake.” For months, Anna asked people about it, but no one seemed to know where it was. Some made jokes; some said maybe it doesn’t exist. Anna was sure it did—she could see a line for a lake on every old paper map. One Saturday, Anna put her backpack, map, and water bottle in the car and drove towards the hills. She parked beside an old stone wall. Anna checked her map, the sky was bright and the air smelled like pine. She followed a narrow path between tall trees. As Anna walked, she noticed the sound of her shoes on leaves and dirt. Soon, the path split. Anna chose the steeper way, using her walking stick. In the middle of the path, she found a small cave, dark and cold. Anna remembered stories about animals in caves, so she walked quickly past. After more hills and crossing a stream, Anna stopped for a rest. She looked at her map again—the lake was supposed to be close. But the trees were thick, and there was no sign of water. Anna was tired, but her curiosity was stronger. Suddenly, she heard a strange noise; it sounded like someone calling. Anna listened and heard it once more, “Hello?” Anna walked slowly until she saw an old man sitting by a tree. He had grey hair and wore a green jacket. Anna waved and introduced herself. The old man smiled and said his name was Tom. He was carrying a compass, and Anna noticed he had a fishing rod. The man said, “Are you searching for the lake?” Anna nodded. Tom said, “I know the way. But it’s not an easy trip.” Together, they walked through thick bushes, slid down wet rocks, and used the compass and map together. Tom told Anna old stories about the hills—he said one house nearby was haunted, and once he saw a deer near the lake. Several hours later, Anna and Tom reached a small open place in the forest. The sun shone on calm blue water. Anna finally saw the Hidden Lake. It was smaller than she expected, but very peaceful. On one side of the lake, there was an old boat. Anna and Tom sat by the water. Tom started fishing, while Anna drew the lake in her notebook. The air smelled fresh, and Anna felt proud for finding the lake. Tom found Anna’s enthusiasm for new places funny. He told her that sometimes people look for treasure there, but he always only found fish. Anna asked if he’d ever camped overnight. Tom said he hadn’t, but that people sometimes had campfires nearby. As the sun started to set, Anna took some photos and promised to return. Tom said, “Next time, bring a tent. It’s nice to stay by the lake at night.” Anna hiked back with Tom. She felt happy, tired, and ready to tell her friends about the adventure. Now, she knew a secret of her new town—one only found by people who never stop searching.