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Rita’s expression softened. “He’s generous like that.”
Maya turned to Ariana. “You’re quiet. Everything okay?”
Ari’s stomach twisted. She needed to bring up the drawing she found, but she didn’t want to upset Rita. The longer she put it off, the harder it would be.
“She’s probably normal,” Olivia said. “You know… worried about the impending storm.”
“Is that it?” Maya asked.
“Yeah.” The word tumbled out of Ari’s mouth before she’d figured out what she’d say.
“See?” Olivia said. “Storms creep out normal people — especially in an old building like this. Sure, the parts we’ve seen are beautiful but I know the history of this place. It was an old mansion that got dilapidated and almost condemned before someone restored it and saved the building.”
“You think it’s haunted?” Rita asked.
Maya covered her eyes. “Not you too.”
“It was only a question.”
One of the ladies who worked at the spa brought in a platter of fruits. “Is anyone ready for snacks?”
“Yes,” Rita said quickly. “What’s it like here when the weather gets stormy?”
“I haven’t worked here long.” The woman set the tray on the side of the hot tub. “But I believe there’s a generator if the power goes out.”
“What about the phone lines?” Olivia asked. “If those go out, we don’t have cell signals.”
“I’m not sure. Do you want me to ask someone who has worked here longer?”
“No,” Rita said. “We just want to enjoy this time. How much longer until our massage sessions?”
She looked at the time. “You have about a half hour.”
Ariana reached for an apple slice, but guilt stung. Rita would probably want to know more about how things are handled during a power outage if she knew about the threatening drawing.
“Wait,” Ari said, as the lady was heading out of the room.
She turned around. “Yes?”
“Would you mind finding out what usually happens during a storm?”
“Sure thing.”
Rita groaned. “Usually you’re so level headed. What gives?”
“It’s good to be prepared.”
“You a Boy Scout now?” Rita asked.
Ariana grabbed the platter and held out for everyone to easily grab fruit. It was a good distraction. Not that it made her feel any better — that wouldn’t happen until she told her friend about the threat. But once she did, Rita’s good time would be over. She’d be rightfully freaked out.
Thankfully everyone grabbed something to eat, and the attention was off Ariana.
Olivia gasped.
Ari whipped her head side to side, expecting to see someone holding a knife.
“What?” Maya exclaimed.
