The fact that he noticed, that he knew me so well, made my chest tighten with something I couldn’t quite name.
We drove the rest of the way in relative silence with one of Garner’s playlists drifting through the speakers. The mountains rose around us as we wound our way toward Whitefish. It was a beautiful day, the sky a perfect shade of blue. By the time we entered the long drive that led to the lodge, I’d actually started to relax.
But as the massive timber and stone structure appeared in front of us, the reality of what we were about to do sank in. Nestled among towering pines, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the resort was even more impressive than the pictures online.
"Holy shit," Garner muttered as he stopped in the huge circular drive. "This place must cost a fortune."
"It does. I used almost all my savings to pay for this weekend.” It was a reckless move and totally out of character for me, but I needed to figure out who was behind all the trouble in Mustang Mountain.
He turned to me, frowning. "Liv, you didn't have to do that. I could have?—"
"It's fine," I cut him off. "Consider it my contribution to truth and justice."
He rolled his eyes but smiled. "Whatever you say, Nancy Drew."
“Nancy Drew? Is that the best you can do?” It felt good to laugh, especially as we entered the intimidating lobby. A massive stone fireplace dominated one wall, with floor to ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views on either side. We approached the front desk, where a cheery blonde greeted us with a practiced smile.
"Welcome to Aspen Crest Lodge. Checking in?"
"Yes," I said, reaching for Garner's hand without thinking. His fingers entwined with mine immediately, warm and secure. "We're the McCraes."
"The newlyweds!" Her smile widened. "You're here for our Passion and Purpose retreat. Congratulations on your marriage."
"Thanks," Garner said, his thumb stroking over the back of my hand. "We're excited to be here."
"Well, we have a special suite prepared for you. The honeymoon package, as requested." She handed us two key cards. "Your first session begins at two in the Grand Pavilion. Until then, feel free to explore the grounds or enjoy our spa facilities."
A bellhop appeared to take our two small bags, and we followed him to the elevator. Once the doors closed, I let out a long breath.
"Honeymoon package?" Garner mumbled as he arched a brow.
"Nothing but the best, love,” I said. Then I rose onto my tiptoes to whisper so the bellhop wouldn’t hear. “It was the only room available for the retreat. I thought it would help sell our cover."
Garner shook his head. Even though he didn’t understand my need to get to the truth, he was still willing to go along with my plan, and I was going to owe him big time.
The bellhop led us down a plush hallway to a door marked "Alpine Honeymoon Suite." As soon as he opened it, I knew I'd made a huge mistake.
The room was enormous, with giant picture windows looking out at the mountains. But it was the extra touches that made my stomach drop. Red and pink rose petals scattered across a king-sized bed, champagne chilled in an ice bucket on the nightstand, and I could see a heart-shaped whirlpool tub through the doorway to the bathroom.
"Will this be satisfactory?" the bellhop asked.
"It's perfect," Garner answered, handing him a tip. "Thanks, man."
As soon as we were alone, I turned to Garner, mortified. "I'm so sorry. I had no idea it would be this... this..."
"Tacky?" He laughed, dropping onto the bed and sending rose petals flying. "Could be worse. At least there aren't mirrors on the ceiling."
I groaned, covering my face. "This is embarrassing."
"Nah, it's funny." He patted the spot beside him. "Come on, Liv. We're supposed to be madly in love, remember? Our first romantic getaway as husband and wife."
I perched on the edge of the bed, hyperaware of him sitting right next to me. "About that. There's only one bed."
"I noticed." His voice was neutral. "I can take the floor."
"Don't be ridiculous. We're both adults." I hoped I sounded more confident than I felt. "We can share the bed. It's not like we haven't crashed in the same space before."
"True." He stood and walked to one of the huge windows. "Can’t beat this view."
