Page 60 of Vacation Friends

She’d initially declined the proposal but had eventually realized acting in this role was important to Josh. She’d acquiesced. But she wasn’t looking forward to it.

The good news, however, was that she’d get a massage and a facial, two things she very much looked forward to.

She plastered on a smile as she greeted everyone outside the spa. Twelve guests would be here today, and Maddie’s job was to make them all feel welcome.

Her gaze scanned the crowd, and she recognized a couple of people, including Nico’s wife, Ashley.

She called everyone together to welcome them. Then she talked about the benefits of relaxation and how they all deserved the very best. Josh had helped her prepare what to say.

The two of them had briefly talked this morning, and he’d given her an update on Darla and the retreat. Things were cordial between them, but she was still bothered by the fact that he’d abandoned her on the UTV and then blamed her. That wasn’t okay.

When she finished, she motioned for everyone to follow her beyond a thick white curtain into the treatment area. Massage therapists and estheticians waited to pamper them.

Maddie couldn’t wait for her turn.

Not only did she need to relax, but this would be a great opportunity to keep an eye on some of these Benchmark employees.

“Maddie, is that you?” someone whispered from behind.

She turned and saw Adrienne peeking her head around the edge of the curtain.

Maddie paused before stepping closer. “Adrienne . . . what are you doing here?”

“There wasn’t room on any of the excursions for me. They were all packed. Mr. Harding—Josh—said I should come here and see if there were any openings.”

That sounded awfully thoughtful of Josh. Maddie shouldn’t be surprised, but part of her was. Was he trying to make up after their argument last night?

Her shoulders relaxed as she smiled. “That’s a great idea. As a matter of fact, there’s one more spot for a massage available. Sue Martin canceled because her stomach felt unsettled after eating sushi at a restaurant down the street.”

“Do you think I could get in?” A hopeful look filled her gaze.

“Absolutely. Let me just talk to the manager.”

A few minutes later, everything was approved. The only caveat was that Maddie and Adrienne would need to be in a couples’ massage room, which Maddie was fine with.

Moments later, they were stretched out on their tables with a sheet over them and two therapists kneaded their shoulders. The scent of spearmint and lavender filled the room, and soft instrumental music played in the background.

Adrienne turned her head toward Maddie. “So, I’m surprised you didn’t do a helicopter ride today.”

Maddie nearly snorted. “With the run of luck I’ve been having, I thought that would be a very bad idea.”

Adrienne let out a quick laugh. “I get that. I’d probably do the same if I were in your shoes.”

“That was scary what happened last night at the luau, wasn’t it?”

Adrienne’s smile dimmed. “It really was. Have you heard any updates on Darla?”

“Josh said she’s doing better. She was released with minor burns on her arm and shoulder. The incident scared her more than anything.”

Adrienne shook her head in disbelief. “Poor woman. I was talking to a member of the staff, and they said things like that never happen.”

“How did it happen? I mean, all the people they have go in and out of this place on a daily basis, certainly safety measures are in place.”

“And why did it happen now?” Adrienne murmured.

Maddie had thought that many times herself. “Good question. Maybe the retreat is cursed.”

She didn’t really believe in curses, but if there was ever a time she might start . . . it would be now.

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