Chapter 2: The Prize I Never Entered

The next morning, Daniel and Melissa arrived wearing enormous smiles.

“Mom, you won a weekend at a wellness retreat!” Daniel announced.

I had no memory of entering a contest. When I asked for details, Melissa talked quickly about fresh air, spa treatments, and peaceful surroundings. I disliked confrontation, and part of me wanted to believe they were trying to do something kind.

So I packed a small bag.

We drove for nearly four hours before turning onto a wooded road lined with tall pine trees. At the end stood a beautiful stone estate with broad windows and carefully trimmed gardens. It looked peaceful enough, but there was no sign welcoming contest winners.

Daniel parked near the entrance. He and Melissa said they needed to “make a few arrangements,” then left me alone in the car.

After several minutes, I stepped outside. The air smelled of pine and damp soil, and I followed a garden path while trying to quiet the uneasiness gathering in my chest.

Then I saw an elderly man by the fountain, happily casting an imaginary fishing line. Continue Reading ⬇️