Page 3 of Cause of Action

Asshole.

He perfectly situated his neck pillow, popped a pill, and wore a sleep mask. We hadn’t taken off yet, and he was alltucked in for the flight. Good. I didn’t need or want him talking to me.

As soon as we were in the air, I signaled to the flight attendant. She walked over and stared at me.

“Can I get another whiskey, please?”

“Of course.” She smiled.

A trip like this was exactly what I needed, even if it was a work trip. I still hadn’t decided whether to stay in New York or move on. Seattle was a shitshow, and so were things with Tom. I had to leave before he found out who I really was and what I was doing. One lousy mistake could change the course of your life, just like it did my father’s.

We finally landed—one of the smoothest landings I’d ever experienced. I nudged the man next to me, and he grunted.

“We landed, and I need you to move so I can get off this plane.”

He took off his eye mask and looked at me.

“Already?”

“I guess time flies when you’re drugged.” I smiled.

He stood up and waited for the cabin door to open. Grabbing his bag from the overhead, he blocked the way so I couldn’t get out.

“Will you hurry up?” I asked.

“Lady, what is your problem? I’m getting my bag.”

I slightly pushed him so I could exit my seat.

Stepping off the plane, the sun was hotter than Hades.

“Shit.” I put on my sunglasses.

After clearing customs, I hailed a cab.

“Where to, ma’am?”

“The Shore Club.”

Arriving at the hotel, a man rushed over and opened the car door.

“Thank you.” I smiled as I took in the beauty of the place.

Walking over to the reception desk, I checked in.

“Name, please,” the friendly woman behind the desk spoke.

“Morgan Ashley.”

“Welcome to The Shore Club, Miss Ashley. We hope you enjoy your stay.”

“Oh, trust me. I will.” I grinned.

“This is Renaldo, your butler.”

“Butler?” My brows furrowed.

“Yes. He comes with your suite. He’ll help you with anything you need, including groceries. Renaldo, please take Miss Ashley to room 2501.”