Page 54 of Signs and Wonders

He wondered about Brent’s impressions of the presentation, although there were too many people around to discuss the matter right now.

Evan wasn’t surprised when Linda and her husband, as well as their other two original tablemates, joined them.

“What did you think about today?” Evan asked after the server took their drink orders and offered a choice between “locally-farmed, sustainably sourced, organic, pesticide-free” chicken, fish, or vegetarian pasta.

“I’m coming back,” Linda announced, although her husband didn’t seem as enthused. Linda apparently didn’t mind the possibility of attending solo. “It’s exactly the sort of program I’ve been looking for.”

“It’s pretty up here, and the food is good,” her husband agreed. “I’ve had to sit through worse for a decent meal.”

Linda gave him the side-eye while Brent stifled a snicker.

The server came back with their drinks, bread, and salads. Despite his nervousness over their evening plans, Evan’s stomach rumbled.

“How about you?” Evan asked the other couple, who still hadn’t volunteered their names.

“I think I’d be even happier if it were just a resort without the New Age trappings,” the man said, “but it’s a nice change of pace. It wouldn’t hurt to get out of the rat race and off the hamster wheel for a while.” His wife nodded, more interested in her salad than in conversation.

“I haven’t forgotten that Josh said he’d get us a tour of the spa,” Linda told them as she tore into a piece of bread and slathered it with butter. “That’s a make-or-break condition for me. I don’t want to rough it while I’m pursuing enlightenment.” She laughed.

“How about you two?” the other man asked. “Ready to sign on?”

Brent gave a pleasant smile. “Certainly thinking about it. They’ve given me a lot to mull over.”

“The food is definitely a point in their favor,” Evan agreed. “But I’m with Linda—I want to see the spa—and the library—before I make a decision.”

True to his promise, Josh came to their table after their dessert of warm apple cobbler with vanilla ice cream. “I’ll be outside the dining room to take you on the spa tour in ten minutes. We’re just looking—not using any of the equipment or signing up for services this time—but you’ll be able to get a good idea of what we offer. No one is ever disappointed!”

A few of the others had decided to join them, in addition to their tablemates. Josh led them down a wide staircase to a below-ground floor used for meeting rooms and then down one more level to the spa.

“You’ll still have time to at least steal a peek at the labyrinth, library, and garden after we’re done,” Josh said. “I know I’ve mentioned them before, but they’re my favorite spots when I get a few minutes to myself.”

The lobby of the spa gave no indication that it was at least partially situated in a cave. Sleek wood, soft lights, and a small fountain set a soothing tone. They passed the reception desk and waiting area, done with a Danish-modern feel, along with a row of doors that likely led to massage or treatment rooms.

“The mineral pool is in the big space,” Josh said. “It’s a natural wonder and has been attracting visitors since the old Mountain Laurel Lodge first opened.”

“Is the water cold?” Linda asked.

“It’s…brisk,” Josh replied. “But our guests come back time and again because they swear the pool has restorative properties. Spa visits are by appointment only. You’ll find a full menu of services in your room. There’s something for every taste.”

He pulled on the door handle and looked surprised to find the room locked. “That can’t be right,” he muttered, frowning. “They’re supposed to be open for several more hours.”

Josh turned toward his guests. “Let me call their receptionist—I’m sure it’s a mistake.” He lifted the receiver on an old-fashioned landline phone on the wall next to the doorway and punched in the extension. Evan could hear the call ring, then a voice answered, but he couldn’t make out the words.

“I’m very sorry,” Josh said. “I’ve never had that happen before. The message said the spa closed early for a water leak and would reopen in the morning. I do apologize, and I’ll see if I can set something up before you leave tomorrow.”

He plastered on a smile, but Evan thought he detected a hint of worry. “On the plus side, more time for you to explore the other special places!”

Everyone was too polite to grumble, but Evan didn’t miss the look Linda traded with her husband. The other man seemed put out, but his wife didn’t seem to care one way or the other, and Evan wondered how someone so phlegmatic ended up at a resort to learn to chill out.

“I’ll leave you here,” Josh said when they were back in the main lobby. “Again, my apologies. I hope you have a great rest of your evening—the concert and drum circle are a real treat!”

“How disappointing,” Linda remarked once Josh was gone. “I’d been looking forward to seeing what the spa has to offer.”

“I’m sure we’ll get a chance to see it tomorrow,” her husband said. “Let’s have a look at that library.” He took her arm and steered her toward the outside door.

“If it’s not too cold, a stroll in the garden might wake me up,” the other man said. “Let’s go check it out.” He and his wife walked away, leaving Evan and Brent alone.

“I’d like to go back to the room for a bit.” Evan knew Brent would catch his drift. They didn’t talk in the elevator and remained quiet until they were inside, and Brent ran another scan for listening devices.

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