I let out a deep sigh after the call ended. Just then, a car pulled up. I got in without hesitation.
“To Emerald Shores Hotel, please,” I said. When I glanced at the driver, I realized it was Ben.
“At your service, Empress of the Town!” Ben joked with a grin.
“You’re such a clown, Ben. Hurry up! I’m running late,” I said, urging him. Only a few minutes remained before my shift began, and I couldn’t afford to be late.
A short ride later, we arrived at the hotel. In my rush, I forgot to pay Ben.
“Ben, I’ll pay later! Just put it on my tab, even with interest!” I called out before dashing inside.
Once at my post, I calmed myself. The hotel wasn’t particularly busy today. Ava, one of my colleagues, was positively glowing, and I couldn’t resist teasing her.
“What’s going on, Ava? You look thrilled about something,” I asked.
“Lily, Brian’s picking me up later. He’s taking me to meet his parents!” she said, practically bouncing with excitement.
“That’s amazing! I’m so happy for you. Hopefully, I’ll get a boyfriend to introduce someday too,” I said with a laugh as I hugged her.
“Alright, girl, take care of things here. I’m heading out; he’s already outside. I’ll introduce you to him soon!” Ava said, planting kisses on both my cheeks.
“Enough already!” I giggled as she added more playful kisses.
Hours passed, and I was preparing to leave when the weather suddenly turned nasty. Heavy rain poured down, accompanied by strong winds and lightning. My replacement was running late, likely due to the storm. It was nearing nine in the evening.
I sat back at my post when, out of nowhere, a deep baritone voice startled me. Looking up, I froze. Standing before me was a man unlike anyone I’d ever seen. My stomach flipped as I bit my lower lip, unable to tear my gaze away. When he caught me staring, he winked—an irresistible gesture that made my knees feel weak.
“Miss, I need a room,” he said, his voice smooth and commanding.
Clearing my throat, I replied, “Yes, sir. We have rooms available. Are you alone?”
“Yes,” he said curtly.
“Okay, Room Five,” I said, handing him a key.
Our eyes met, and my heart raced. His features were breathtaking—eyes that could captivate anyone, and a presence so magnetic it left me speechless.
“If you need anything, sir, just call this number,” I said, offering him a card.
“Thank you,” he replied.
As he walked away, I couldn’t help but let out a squeal. His broad back, tall frame, and sharp features had me utterly mesmerized. My imagination ran wild as I watched him disappear into the hallway.
“Oh my God, I think I have a crush,” I whispered to myself, cheeks flushed. Then it hit me—I didn’t even get his name. Worse, he was drenched from the rain.
