Chapter: 1615

Subsequently, the group made their way to the hot springs located on the hillside.

The hot springs were housed inside a man-made cave equipped with basic changing rooms and assorted small items.

A staff member led them in, courteously bowing as he said, "Please let us know if you need anything."

He then positioned himself at the entrance to ensure the guests' privacy.

Alyssa inspected the area, nodding approvingly. She tested the water temperature with her hand and was pleased to find it perfect.

The three women changed into their bathing suits and eased into the warm waters of the hot spring, their exhaustion fading as they relaxed, each letting out a sigh of relief.

Alyssa said, squinting contentedly, "Taking a hot spring bath on a chilly day feels like heaven. It's incredibly soothing."

Susanna grinned proudly. "My spot choice wasn't too shabby, right? Did you enjoy yourselves today?"

Norah responded with a slight nod, "Yes, I did."

Next to her, Joanna leaned against the edge of the pool with her hands. She raised her head and said, "There's truly something special about spending time with friends. I can't wait for our next trip."

The steam from the pool swirled around them, and their bodies created ripples in the water as they moved.

Norah let out a sigh and eased into a more relaxed posture. "I'm not sure when I'll be free to hang out again. Work at the hospital could keep me tied up for a while."

She had left the hospital duties to Gil, but that was just for one day since he had the weekends off.

Joanna said, "If I had Norah's background, I'd spend my days leisurely or jet-setting across the globe. Running a hospital sounds exhausting and full of headaches."

Alyssa, who had only just discovered that Norah was the head of Peace Ark Private Hospital, rested her chin in her hands and gazed at Norah with admiration. "You're amazing, Norah."

Susanna, ever straightforward, added, "If it were me, I'd be doing nothing. Working myself to the bone is out of the question."

Joanna's envy was growing into frustration. She had recently taken over a small cosmetics business, and although it wasn't huge, it came with plenty of challenges. Even as the boss, she often found herself working late hours.

Alyssa, freshly out of college, hadn't started working. "My dad wants me to get some hands-on experience by working in a bank, but I really don't want to."

Joanna dismissed the idea. "That sounds too exhausting. If you want experience, there are better ways to get it. Your dad adores you; just talk to him seriously and he might let you skip the bank job."

Susanna chimed in curiously, "Speaking of which, aren't you quite young to be going on blind dates already?"

"Well, my dad is pushing for me to start seeing someone and to get married within the next couple of years." Alyssa smirked.

Joanna nodded approvingly. "Wow, that actually fits well then."

She thought that if her brother ended up marrying Alyssa, it would be several years before their wedding. Despite the wait, she believed in him, knowing he was dependable and kind.

Alyssa turned to Norah and said, "Norah, Bryson told me about you and Sean. You two have really been through a lot together; it's quite touching."