Step out from behind the tree and walk down the main path in full view

You step boldly out from the heavy shadows of the pine tree, leaving your hiding spot on the ridge line. The gravel crunches lightly beneath your boots as you intentionally walk down the main scenic path in full view of the entire wooden deck, letting the crisp mountain air hit your face.

Up ahead, Dana’s head snaps toward you instantly. Seeing that you’ve stepped into the light rather than retreating, her smirk widens into a brilliant, wicked flash of teeth. She stands proudly at the side of the deck, tracking your descent with a gaze that practically radiates triumph. You haven’t just accepted her invitation to watch; you’ve claimed your place as the audience.

Down on the mats, the four women remain locked in their grueling, extended downward dog. They are completely focused on their own burning muscles and heavy breathing, entirely unaware of your approach or the fact that they are currently the center of a private exhibition.

As you stride closer, the golden morning sun fully crests the peaks, slicing through the remaining mist and casting a stark, revealing light over the edge of the deck.

Dana watches as your eyes trace the line of women, her expression filled with a mature, knowing satisfaction. As you reach the base of the path where it connects to the main lodge, Dana finally breaks her silence, her smoky voice commanding the air.

“And... release. Inhale, drop your knees to the mat, and push back into a wide-legged Child’s Pose,” Dana orders fluidly.

The four women instantly collapse out of the intense inversion, sinking their hips back onto their heels and extending their arms forward, burying their faces against their mats as they catch their breath. Only now, as they rest, does Lauren shift her head to the side, her bright blue eyes catching sight of you standing at the edge of the deck.

A sudden, rosy flush rushes up Lauren’s neck, her naturally reserved nature kicking in as she realizes her husband is standing right there, watching the end of their intense sunrise session. She gives you a small, breathless, embarrassed smile from her mat.

Dana steps toward the edge of the deck, looking down at you with a playful, teasing spark in her eyes. “Good morning, Mark,” she purrs, completely unbothered by the chill. “You’re up early?”