I pulled to a stop at the end of the long dirt road before a small clearing, bordered by tall trees. I had escaped from my boring job, and planned to spend an entire week alone, in the peace and solitude of nature. There were nearby mountains to hike up during the day, and a nice nearby lake to cool myself off in when it got hot. I planned to do a lot of hiking and swimming while I was here.
I unpacked my car, and lugged the stuff to the far side of the clearing, where I would be near water. I had filled the car with essentials, so I wouldn't have to leave the campsite for food or fuel. As the sun had already set by the time I had arrived, I had barely enough twilight to set up my tent and dining fly before I found it necessary to light my lantern. I cooked a quick dinner, and prepared to sleep off the drive. As I entered my tent, I noticed a small "pup" tent in the other corner of the field, in a small depression. I had expected to be alone. I hoped whoever was in the tent would be gone tomorrow. Besides, I had heard that it would rain heavy tonight before clearing in the late morning. Maybe the rains would drive them away, and I could enjoy my solitude.
I entered the tent, and zipped it up in preparation for the inclement weather. It was cooling off in the tent, and I was quite happy to slip into my warm sleeping bag. I always slept naked, and enjoyed the freedom from clothes when I camped. That's why I had picked this remote location. To be alone, naked, and one with nature. I was soon asleep.
I awoke to the flash of lightening and crash of thunder. The winds had picked up while I slept, and I could hear their howl outside the tent, along with the rain being driven against the stout sides of the tent. I was glad that I had pitched the tent well away from the trees, and staked it down securely. As I lay there, listening to the wind, rain, and thunder, I thought I heard a woman's voice crying. Soon, I felt the tent shake, and a voice cry out "Hello, in the tent! Is anyone there?"
I unzipped the door, and peeked out into the vestibule. There, before me, stood the most pitiful sight I have ever seen - a young woman, wearing a thin nighty, soaked clean through, her hair in wet knots, and standing in muddy, bare, feet.