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Tina looks over to Nila and nods. “Staff has internet at all hours, but unfortunately, we can’t extend that privilege to other guests. You’ll have access to it in the evenings. Will that suffice for your documentation?”
“I suppose it has to,” Nila says with a smile. I can tell it’s fake, and I laugh in the backseat. This is going to be an interesting exercise for her—not being able to constantly check her pocket screen.
“I think you’ll find you appreciate the break from technology. Most of us who work here don’t spend a lot of time on our phones. You end up missing out on the life happening right in front of your face when you’re wrapped up in technology.” Tina nods to the phone clutched in Nila’s hand as she punches the gas, lurching the UTV up a rocky incline. “Almost there.”
My gaze shifts out the window, taking in the snow-capped Rockies. It’s a sight for sore eyes, but it’s not all-consuming like this lady keeps making it out to be. I’ve seen prettier views—like the redhead in the front seat.
But I’m trying to get over that.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have some sort of crush on her, but I won’t act on it. This is business, and when I asked her to dinner...
Well, it went terribly.
“So, we’re sharing this?” Nila’s unsteady voice has me whipping my head toward the direction she’s looking—spotting a luxurious but tiny log cabin.
“Yes.” Tina gives the two of us a sympathetic look as the UTV comes to a stop. “If another cabin opens up, I’ll see what I can do ... but for now, you’ll have to make this work. The two of you seem close, though, so maybe it won’t be so bad.”
I nod, but my insides are all twisted up as I climb out of the UTV, grab a couple of bags, and follow Tina and Nila to the door.
This log cabin looks like something straight out of a picture. It’s set on the side of the mountain with stunning views. Leftover snow is still splattered across the ground, but grass peeks through from underneath.
“It’s beautiful,” Nila says. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen something so picturesque.”
I stare at her.
Just look in the mirror.
“I think this cabin has the best view of them all,” Tina comments as she unlocks the door. “There’s a sticker with instructions on the backside of the door for setting your own key code. We like to give our low-risk guests as much privacy as possible. We want you to feel at home here—though we can access the cabin if necessary.”
“Good to know,” I comment. “I’ll be sure to keep my valuables locked away.”
Tina smiles at me tersely. “You’ve got quite the sense of humor.”
“That’s what they say,” I remark, following her inside. It smells like cinnamon and vanilla … and I must admit the warmth of the cabin feels good against my chilled skin.
I set the bags down in the entryway before following Tina and Nila into the living room. “So, this is the main living area. The kitchen is there.” She points to a small area. “You’re more than welcome to cook your own meals if that suits you. Groceries are available at the main hall.”
“Does anyone stay at the main hall?” Nila asks, her voice tinged with curiosity.
“Our higher-risk guests do, yes. We have a whole team of doctors and nurses available there around the clock.”
“Ah, so it’s like a fancy psych ward.” I smirk.
“Hilarious sense of humor you have, Mr. Hastens.”
Nila giggles, eyeing me from beside Tina—who’s now giving us both a funny look—and I can’t help but smile.
“Anyway”—she clears her throat—“the bedroom and bathroom are right there.” Tina points to a small hallway with only one door. “The bathroom is connected to the bedroom.”
“Are there bears?”
“I’m sorry, what?” Tina turns to Nila.
“Bears.”
“Oh, um.” She chuckles. “Yes, but we’re pretty busy around here, so they don’t tend to wander up our way very often. You don’t have to worry about them.”
“Great,” Nila says, disappearing into the bedroom. But she immediately returns, the smile wiped from her face. “There’s only one bed.”
