– 18 –
Before starting her car, Cory’s concern over Ashley’s headache deepened. She phoned the Inn to speak with her. The clerk rang her room, but there was no response. “Have you seen Ashley today?” Cory asked.
“No. I’d have noticed her. It’s very quiet here. We have a skeleton staff and very few guests.”
“I’d appreciate it if you’d send someone to her room to check on her. Please tell her Cory wants to talk with her.”
“Of course. The staff knows about her condition. Olivia, our maid is quite compassionate. She’s right here. She’ll check the room. Hold on, please.”
“Thank you, Cory said.
She heard the clerk repeat her request in Spanish.
“Si, voy ahora.” the maid replied.
The clerk resumed her conversation with Cory. “It’s usually half full this time of year, but we didn’t expect
