10
Alarge group of people approached them, and Lily stared wide-eyed. Based on the resemblance, she knew they were Ethan and Jackson’s family.
An older lady approached Lily and pulled her into a hug.
“Oh honey, I’m sorry you got lost out there. Let’s get you warmed up. I’m Karen.”
Karen led Lily over to the stone fireplace on the far wall that she noticed was usually lit during the night, keeping the lobby warm when the temperature dropped.
Lily allowed herself to be led, and a trail of people followed. She sat down where she was told and welcomed the heat of the fire.
“I’m okay. Really. You all don’t need to fuss over me. I got myself lost.”
“Nonsense. We clearly need to post more signs. And it’s our responsibility to keep our guests safe.”
“Are you hungry?” a man asked, who looked a lot like Ethan.
Lily’s stomach grumbled, but she didn’t want all the attention. She almost said “no”, but Ethan spoke first.
“She’s starving. She hasn’t eaten since lunch.”
Lily looked up at him, and he only winked in response.
“Do you like burgers?” the man asked. At Lily’s nod, he said, “I’ll be right back.” And he disappeared into the restaurant.
“I’m seriously okay. You all don’t need to worry.”
Jackson smiled. “You don’t want to miss out on whatever Miles plans to whip up. He’s the chef here and his food is—” He held his fingers to his lips and made a chef’s kiss into the air.
Lily giggled. “Well, I appreciate it.”
As it dawned on her, her eyes widened. “Oh my gosh. My phone died, and my friend Stacy is the one who contacted you all. She must be worried sick. Could I use a phone?”
“Oh, of course, but we already let her know you were found. She asked that you call her before you go to bed,” Karen said. “But I can grab you a phone if you’d like to call her now.”
Lily let out a breath. “No, no, as long as she knows, it’s okay. I’ll call her later.”
Ethan stepped closer and looked around at the group of people. “Let me introduce you to everyone.”
He went around the circle and pointed out his parents, siblings, their significant others, and his niece. Lily weakly smiled and waved, thankful this group of people had been concerned enough to search for her. Plus, they don’t want a tourist’s death linked to their resort.
“Thank you all for your help in finding me today. I’m not sure what I would have done if I had to stay out there all night.”
“We’re just glad you’re safe,” Karen said. She looked over at Ethan before her eyes met her husband’s. “Now that you’re safe and sound, I think we are going to head home.”
“I’m sorry for keeping you all up so late and likely ruining plans,” Lily said.
Karen waved a hand in the air. “Nonsense. We had just finished our weekly family dinner when we got the call. None of us were busy. It was nice meeting you.”
“You too,” Lily said.
Ethan’s parents left, and shortly after, Miles came out of the kitchen with a burger and fries for Lily. He set it down on the coffee table in front of her. Her mouth watered at the sight. Thick slices of bacon peeked out of the top, along with cheese and lettuce.
“Thank you so much,” Lily said.
“You’re welcome. I’m Miles, by the way,” he said.
“It’s nice to meet you.”
