Page 84 of Proof

“I would love a classic car!” Gail squeaked.

“So would Chris. He had his eye on a 1959 red Thunderbird.”

“Oooh. I like the sound of that.”

“I thought you would.” Luna grinned. “Personally, I prefer the robin’s-egg blue.”

“That’s nice, too.”

“He really seemed genuinely interested, so I suggested maybe it could be a project for him and Carter. Carter’s twelve. It could take about five years to refurbish one, and then Carter would be able to drive it. Chris thought that would be a great motivator.”

“Very good point.”

“I’m full of them.” Luna laughed and helped clear the table and do the dishes.

They decided to turn in early. Luna’s jet lag was waning, and she wanted her body to be in the right time zone. Plus, they were scheduled to get up before the sun and head out to Bell Rock.

Chapter Sixteen

Sedona

The Pursuit

Gail tiptoed into Luna’s room, carrying a mug of coffee. She whispered, “Good morning, sunshine.”

Luna stretched and yawned. “What time is it?”

“Ten minutes to five.” Gail handed her the coffee. “I hope it’s okay. I tried using a dash of allspice and cream.”

Luna took a whiff of it. “Smells good.” Then she took a sip. “Not bad for an amateur.”

“Ha. Come on. Shake a leg. We’ve got a sunrise to catch.”

They put on denim shirts, long pants, and hiking boots. Gail stuffed two pairs of cotton gloves with grips on the palm side into her back pocket. “Just in case we need to grab onto something.” She handed Luna a small flashlight.

Gail knew they would be back at the B&B before it got blazing hot, so their attire was appropriate for climbing the ledges early in the day.

When they arrived at the foot of the butte, several cars were already parked nearby. “Not an original idea.” Luna chuckled.

They walked along a path that took them to the famous vortex and began to ascend the sandstone monument one plateau at a time. It didn’t require climbing hand-over-hand, but it did require some balance.

They passed several other people nestled against the rock formation and kept moving until they found an unoccupied area. The two women settled down and waited for the landscape to come alive. It was more than watching the sunrise. The scenery changed colors, glowing gold and crimson, and the sounds of awakening birds captivated the soul. It was probably one of the most peaceful experiences anyone could ever have.

Neither woman spoke a word. They remained in a place of internal serenity for almost a half hour as the sun came into full view. Intuitively, they both stood at the same time, knowing each had been renewed. They silently walked back to the car.

Once inside, Luna sat back and let out a huge sigh. “That was incredible. How often do you do this?”

“Not often enough,” Gail replied.

“I guess it’s like New Yorkers who’ve never gone to the Empire State Building. You know it’s always there, but for some reason, you never get around to it,” Luna offered. “Although the energy is certainly different.”

“That’s for sure.” Gail started the engine, and they went back to the B&B to change into lighter clothes. They had a couple more shops to visit, and then it was off to the spa.

The spa was situated next to a rapidly running creek. In the distance was another vista of red rock formations. The scent of piñon filled the air, mingling with the gentle music of a Native American flute. As soon as you entered, you could feel the stress begin to melt away.

The hostess showed them to a changing room and gave them turbans for their hair and plush robes. She showed them where they could store their personal things and gave them keys for the wooden lockers. She walked them out to the terrace, where a warm effervescent tub awaited them. “I’ll leave you to your privacy.”

The two disrobed, stepped into the healing waters, and rested on seats so their bodies were submerged up to their necks. Groans of delight emanated from both of them. Soft pillows were strewn around the edge so they could lie back and be surrounded by the restoring waters.

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