The black Escalade drove slowly down the deserted street. Long weeds rustled in the wind in front of the empty mansion where the car came to rest; empty, dusty windows looking out at and dark enough to rival the tinted windows of the car where the conversation was taking place.
Peter turned off the engine and looked around. "Guys, I was really just joking. Dealing with the 'supernatural,'" he air-quoted, "Is not going to make you better for the next movie. This house isn't even haunted. Mrs. Allen moved out because she couldn't handle taking care of such a large space on her own. Her dead husband is not haunting the place, and he didn't kill himself because the ghosts made him. This house is old and drafty and probably a little unstable in places, but not haunted. Everything can be explained by the wind. I don't want anyone suing me for putting you guys in danger, so let's just go."
"God, are you done?" Rob asked, exasperated. "I'm going in, if only to get away from you and this car. It smells of nappies and Bratz dolls. And Crocs," he sneered, opening the door and hopping out.
"Quit being an asshole about my kids. That's an adorable picture!" Peter yelled out the still open door. "Get back in the damn car, Rob!"
Rob waved the hand containing the key at Peter without even bothering to turn his back.
Kristen stepped out next. "Come on guys, ghosts don't exist. And if they do, I'll protect you." She looked at Nikki and held out a hand. "Come on."
"Okay, see you tomorrow, Peter." Nikki started to step out, then stopped. "Come back early, ok?" she whispered. He smiled and nodded. Nikki jumped out, grabbing Kristen's hand, and they ran together after Rob, toward the ornate but dilapidated front entrance of the house.
"Well, I guess that's settled," Kellan said, getting out of the car and staring down Taylor, Jackson, and Ashley. We don't want to look like pussies in front of them, do we?" He gave Taylor a pointed look. Taylor got up hurriedly and scrambled out to stand next to Kellan.
"Too bad we didn't bring any extra panties; we're probably going to need them," Kellan chuckled. He looked at Jackson and Ashley. "Coming?"
Ashley rolled her eyes and took Jackson's hand. Jackson led her out the door and grabbed his guitar with his other hand. "Tonight is gonna be so awkward," he moaned quietly, considering all the unresolved love triangles and squares and hexagons within the group.
They all walked together to the front door, jumping a little as Peter honked and pulled away.
Rob was waiting for them with the key in the door. "I do wish he hadn't taken our cell phones," he said with a hint of fear in his voice, turning the key slowly. They all took their last look at the rapidly setting sun and entered the house.