Learning to Live Again by Taryn Plendl Page A

would like to do, and I think you would really enjoy it, too.” Rachel watched him, waiting for his answer.
    “I’d like that. Do you want to let me in on what we are doing?” Austin asked.
    “No,” Rachel said simply with a smile.
    Austin chuckled. “Okay, well then can you tell me what time and what to wear?”
    “We need to be there at ten in the morning. You can wear whatever is comfortable, and bring a swimsuit.” Rachel giggled at Austin’s confusion.
    “ You’re not helping me much.” Austin shook his head.
    Rachel smiled. “I know. Goodnight.” Rachel turned to head upstairs, but before she took another step, Austin grabbed her arm. When Rachel turned to see what he needed, Austin stepped forward and lightly kissed Rachel’s lips. He felt a zing go straight through him.
    “Goodnight.” He spoke low and could tell Rachel was caught completely off guard, reaching up and touching her lips. All she could manage was a nod before making her way up to the loft.
    “Did you guys work things out?” Talia stepped up next to Austin.
    “Not completely, but we are spending tomorrow together.”
    “Good.” Talia winked.
    Austin grabbed a beer and made his way out to the balcony. He needed to think, and Austin had a feeling the cool air would help him do just that. He hoped tomorrow would be a better day, because today pretty much sucked.

Chapter 10
     
    Rachel was practically humming with excitement as she descended the stairs. Sleep had been hard to come by, even after a day of skiing and the emotional mess of what happened with Austin. She was tired, but the planned activities for the day were enough to keep her going.
    Austin sat at the breakfast bar with a cup of coffee and smiled widely as soon as he saw Rachel. “Did you want some coffee before we go?” he asked as Rachel set her small bag down and pulled up a seat.
    “That sounds great.” She watched as Austin poured her a cup and handed it to her. “Thank you.” Rachel groaned as the aroma of the strong coffee filled her senses. Neither of them tried to speak . They just sat quietly and enjoyed the coffee and the company. The other couples had left for the day to spend some time in the village, so the condo remained quiet.
    “Ready?” Rachel placed both of their cups in the sink and waited for Austin to grab his things. She waited as he locked the door and then together they began to walk toward the village.
    “Still not telling me what we are doing?” Austin asked with a slight smile.
    “You’ll see in just a few minutes. It’s not far.” Rachel smiled. The morning was clear and crisp. The air filled her lungs and seemed to take away all of the stress and apprehension she had felt since yesterday.
    Rachel led the way up a cobblestone walkway and through large wooden double doors, grinning the moment she saw Austin figure it out.
    “When was the last time you had a spa day, Austin?” Rachel giggled at this expression.
    “Umm, never.” Austin grinned back. “Did you set all this up yesterday?” Rachel nodded. “Even after I was such an ass?” Austin confirmed.
    “Rachel didn’t acknowledge his comment. She reached out and took his hand as they approached the front reception area. After checking in, they were led to a women’s lounge and a m en’s lounge. They were both given large fluffy robes and instructed to put on their bathing suits under them and meet each other in the adjoining couple’s lounge.
    Rachel slipped into her suit and robe and headed out to meet Austin. The lounge had a small bar with several types of carafes filled with water. Some had lemon, some had mint , and one had cucumbers. The décor was warm and inviting with deep woods and soft chairs throughout. There was a huge fireplace that burned hot in the corner of the room. Rachel poured two glasses of lemon water and took them to the two open seats by the fireplace.
    Austin stepped out of the men’s lounge and smile d when he saw Rachel. He looked