“Stay right here,” I instructed Ben, standing up. “Mommy’s just going to take a quick look.”

I walked slowly toward the woman, trying to appear casual. As I neared, I was taken aback by the unmistakable sight of a small trail of spiders, promptly being ushered away by a diligent waiter. The spiders were indeed real, and they seemed to be emerging from beneath the woman’s chair. A chill ran down my spine.

At that moment, the woman excused herself from her companions and walked toward the restroom. I couldn’t help but discreetly follow, questions swirling in my mind.