A conspiracy of ravens gathers in the trees above the lap pool of the spa, preening their glossy plumage and cocking their heads at the silent passage of the golf carts on the other side of the white-washed stucco wall. Their calls and snapping bills are an affront in this sanctuary where cell phones are prohibited. Several of the birds dare to swoop down to the poolside tables, snatching up remnants of organic fruit and gluten-free crackers. The boldest of them alights on the back of a lounge chair, eyeing the diamond tennis bracelet of the woman who lies motionless with slices of cucumber on her eyes. It is the first day of spring, but the atmosphere feels distinctly autumnal.
