The Tunnel Mystery (Oxford 3000 Vocabulary Series)

Sam had heard a theory that the old train tunnel was haunted. Though he usually scoffed at ghost stories, this particular tunnel, with its crumbling entrance and air of mystery, sent shivers down his spine. Still, he was determined to travel through it, even if it meant swallowing his fear. He had a ticket for a unique art exhibition on the other side, featuring sculptures made entirely of tomatoes, and he wasn’t about to miss it. As he cautiously ventured toward the tunnel, the air grew heavy, and he felt a lump in his throat. He was unable to shake the feeling that something was watching him. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the darkness, its face obscured by a dark hood. Sam froze, his tongue feeling like a dry sponge in his mouth. The figure extended a hand, offering Sam a tissue. ‘Thanks,’ Sam croaked, taking the tissue with a trembling hand. As he wiped his brow, the figure pulled back its hood, revealing a friendly park ranger. ‘Just looking out for folks,’ the ranger said with a smile. ‘There’s a treaty with the bat colony in here.’ ‘We don’t disturb them, and they won’t be a threat to anyone.’ Relieved and a little embarrassed, Sam thanked the ranger and continued on his way, eager to finally see those tomato sculptures.