“At first guests would show me the rocks they’d found on their hikes and leave a few.” He joined me at the display. “I didn’t know anything about them, but several years ago we had a geologist guest. She identified the various stones and minerals for me. She owned a mining company and came back every year with her employees for our team-building course.”

“I’ve heard that mentioned. Is that stuff like you write something encouraging about someone and put it into an envelope, then open them and share?”

Roy smiled. “Not quite. Here at Mule Shoe we put together programs that address real workplace issues, like reliance on others during violent events, as well as self-reliance in deeply challenging situations. Here are some brochures.” He offered me a handful and I stuck them in my pocket. “Our geologist friend always wanted some kind of rock or mineral component. Before she left every year, she’d always add to my collection and look over the newest crop of rocks.” He unlocked a drawer under the case. Inside were a number of stones—some bland, some with embedded colored crystals. “She was in a terrible hiking accident recently—”

“She wasn’t, by any chance, the one who fell near the Devil’s Keyhole?”

“Unfortunately, yes.” Roy’s brows had furrowed and lips thinned.

“I’m so sorry.” I quickly picked up a small, sparkling yellow rock. “Gold?”

“Fool’s gold. Iron pyrite.” His face brightened and he pointed at the different rocks. “I think this is jade, petrified wood, topaz, beryl, agate, and maybe tourmaline.”

“You know, G—” I almost said Golden Girl. “Um, I think Grace is a former science teacher. Maybe she can help you identify these.”

Roy smiled. “Why yes, that would be wonderful. I’ll ask her after lunch.” He pivoted to leave, then turned back. “Oh, and she’s more than a science teacher. Have you ever heard of Taborcrest Prep School?”

“Near Seattle? The most expensive . . . oh, that Grace Tabor. Doesn’t she also own the Tabor Inns and Suites, Tabor Foods, and Tabor Publishing?”

He nodded. “Her husband did, and when he passed, she inherited it all. She could buy this place in a heartbeat just for conservation purposes. And maybe she will.” He waved toward the dining room. “Lunch should be ready soon.”

Wyatt stepped into the gift shop and signaled Roy.

“If you’ll excuse me?” Roy quickly locked up the collection and followed Wyatt from the shop.

That was weird. I sensed his reason for offering me something from the store was to occupy me. He never asked me if I’d read Scott’s packet or investigated anything. It was almost as if he didn’t want to find out.

Chapter 7