The night had grown darker, and the city felt more mysterious than ever. Karen, Matt, and Norman moved quickly, their hearts racing as they followed the latest clue to an old, abandoned audition building— where dreams were broken and hope faded.
The building was as ominous as they imagined. The large doors creaked as they pushed them open, revealing a long, dimly lit hallway. Posters from old plays and auditions lined the walls, faded and torn, like the dreams of those who once walked to these halls.
This place gives me the creeps… are we sure this is the right spot?
It fits the clue. We have to keep going.
Well, if we don’t find Lynn, at least we can audition for a ghost movie…
As they ventured deeper into the building, the air grew colder. The silence was only broken by the soft creaks of the old wooden floors beneath their feet. Suddenly, they reached a large room, once used for auditions. In the center of the room, under a single spotlight, was an old wooden chest.
Look!… Do you think the key opens this?
There’s only one way to find out.
Matt inserted the key into the lock and turned it. With a loud click, the chest opened. Inside, they found something unexpected— an old, dusty VHS tape labeled "Watch Me."
A VHS tape? Who even has a VHS player anymore?
Maybe we should go find a museum… or better yet, my grandma’s house!
Despite the oddness of the situation, they decided to take the tape and figure out how to watch it. Luckily, Matt remembered his old TV, which still had a built-in VHS player.
I know where we can watch this… Let’s go!
Back at Matt’s apartment, they gathered around the old TV. The screen flickered to life as the tape began to play. The video was grainy, but they could clearly see Lynn sitting in front of the camera, looking both serious and a little amused.
Hey, guys. If you’re watching this, it means you’ve followed all the clues… and I’m really proud of you! But before you get too worried, let me explain what’s going on…
What is she talking about?
On the screen, Lynn continued to speak, her tone shifting from serious to playful.
You see, when I left for LA, I needed to figure some things out. But I also knew you guys would never let me go without a proper goodbye. So, I decided to make it a bit of an adventure… and maybe have a little fun with it.
Wait… was this all just a game?
Yes, it was all a setup! I wanted to see if you’d still care enough to find me, even after all this time. And I have to say, you did not disappoint!
I can’t believe this… we’ve been running around the city for nothing!
As the tape continued, Lynn’s tone grew more sincere.
But seriously, I’ve missed you guys and I wanted to do something memorable for when we finally reunite. So… surprise! I’m actually in town right now and should be getting to Matt’s apartment any time soon. I hope you’re not mad.
Only Lynn would turn a reunion into a mystery adventure…
Wait, but what about the mysterious guy in the bookstore? Who was that?
Before they could react, the door to Matt’s apartment opened, and in walked the very man they had encountered at the bookstore, holding a pizza box.
I see you found the tape, and I hope you’re hungry— I brought pizza!
Wait… what?! Who are you?
Oh, I almost forgot! Meet my boyfriend, Jack. He’s an actor too, and I thought he’d make the whole thing more … dramatic. Did it work?
So, you’re not a mysterious villain… just a really committed actor huh!?
Guilty as charged! Lynn asked me to help, and I couldn’t resist. Hope I didn’t scare you too much!
You definitely had us going…
This whole thing was one big prank!
Boyfriend!?
As the realization set in, the tension melted away, replaced by laughter. Lynn’s boyfriend, Jack, had played his part perfectly, adding to the mystery and excitement of their adventure.
I have to admit, this was pretty epic. But next time, can we just have a normal reunion? You know, with less suspense and more pizza.
The friends continued to laugh and share stories, the night turning into one of joy and relief. But there was still one thing left to do— they needed to reunite with Lynn in person.
Look who’s finally here.
Hello everyone!
There’s the mystery master! Come here!
Lynn, you've got some explaining to do!
Yeah, like how you got your boyfriend to scare the life out of us!
I’m sorry you guys! I really wanted to make sure you wouldn’t forget this reunion! And I knew Jack would be perfect for the role.
To new memories, unexpected surprises, and friends who love to prank!
And to never trust Lynn again with planning anything… unless it involves pizza.
They all laughed, clinking their glasses together. The night was filled with laughter, good drinks, and stories of their adventure around the city. The mystery was solved, and it turned out to be the best kind of surprise— a playful prank that brought them closer together again.