***

The interior of the spacious 2,500 square foot cabin combined rustic charm with modern necessities. There were three bedrooms and two bathrooms. A full kitchen, a dinette, and living area with a two-sided fireplace that also opened to the master bedroom. The master bath had a spa tub and walk in shower with multi-setting showerhead. The enclosed wraparound deck was equipped with an outdoor stove, a hot tub and a casual dining area. It also had comfortable seating for lounging. The view of the lake and forest beyond was breathtaking at sunrise and after magnificent sunsets it gave way to peaceful nights covered with impenetrable darkness broken only by the moonlight.

“Oh my god Bette this is so beautiful.” Tina exclaimed as she breathed in the fresh air.

“Yes it is. I love coming out here to relax. Why don’t you take your things to the master bedroom and get settled in. I’ll get lunch started and we can eat on the deck.”

“You take the master Bette I’ll be fine in one of the guest rooms.”

“I insist Tina please.” Bette was adamant and Tina didn’t want to argue.

“Fine. Thank you. I’ll be out in a few minutes to help with lunch.”

***

Tina picked up her bags and headed to the master bedroom. When Bette had first suggested Big Bear Lake Tina had envisioned a romantic weekend getaway where she’d hoped they would be sharing a bed, but after the way things ended on Sunday she knew they weren’t there yet. Tina looked around the bedroom and bath and could see Bette’s personal touches everywhere.

The room was beautifully decorated with expensive natural wood furniture. There was artwork decorating all the walls that appeared to be by the same artist whose works she’d also noticed in the living room. Tina moved closer to one of the pieces to make out the artist’s signature. She recognized the name and knew Maxx Wolff to be Bette’s mother Maxine Porter.

Tina observed the candles, scented oils and potpourri strategically placed around the bedroom and bath making for a serene and beautifully fragrant atmosphere. The bulbs in the lamps were low wattage and soft jazz could be heard playing from the hidden stereo speakers.