Page 58 of The Player's Obsession

“I’ve heard about this place. Wasn’t there some fuss about it being built and owned by Russians?” Penelope asks.

“Yes, the Volkovs. Rumor has it, they are buying and building high-end hotels in popular destinations for the affluent traveler.”

“That’s right up your alley. Good thing you can afford the place. I imagine a cup of coffee here will cost me a week’s wage.”

“You don’t need to worry about that,” I reassure her as I pull up next to the valet desk.

Penelope turns toward me, and the whiff of vanilla makes me want to lick her from head to toe.

“Are you ready for this?” she asks. Our eyes meet, and I see her commitment. With that, I’m confident we’re both in the right frame of mind to begin the charade.

“Let the games begin, baby,” I say and lean in for a deep kiss. Our tongues slow dance to the Frank Sinatra song on the stereo. Her arms slide around me, and I’m pleasantly surprised by her response. I can’t remember if I put the car in park, so I maintain pressure on the brake pedal.

My cock is up like a rooster at four a.m. strutting around and crowing. Oh my God, what has she started? I’ve kissed a few women this year, but none lit my fire like this.

Just as things are heating up, I hear a tap on the window. Penelope and I pull apart reluctantly. I open my door, get out of the vehicle, and hand the keys to the valet. He’s dressed smartly in a red uniform under a black wool coat.

“I can take care of the car and the luggage, sir,” he offers.

“Thank you, that would be great.”

The other attendant opens Penelope’s door and helps her out. She thanks him and stands, marveling at the grand portico entrance.

“Are you ready, my love?” I approach and offer her my arm. She turns and gives me a nervous smile. I’m not surprised. It’s not every day she gets to roll like a baller.

“Absolutely,” she replies, slipping her arm through mine. “Oh, what about our coats in the backseat?”

“I’ll have someone fetch them later if we need them. Don’t worry, I’ll keep you warm.” I wink and give her a nudge. She blushes and gives me a demure look.

We walk across the red carpet towards a doorman dressed in tails and wearing white gloves. He opens the door and greets us. “Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Rowe.”

“Thank you,” I reply, expecting the mister and missus part. Most of these places treat their VIPs special so it doesn’t surprise me that he knew my name.

“Wait, did he say Mr. and Mrs.?” Penelope whispers.

“He did, didn’t he? I’m sure it was a mistake.” We make our way across the marble floor with flecks of gold inlaid in the tile.

A few guests in the cavernous lobby cease their hushed conversations to stare at us.

“Ah, Mr. Rowe,” the agent at the reception desk announces as we approach. He’s dressed in a back suit and a red tie, the hotel’s colors appropriate for an owner rumored to be involved in organized crime.

“Hello. How are you?” I respond.

“Oh, it’s a fine day. A bit cold out, but that’s to be expected this time of year. We can’t complain, can we? And the Megs are in the playoffs. How exciting! Lemme congratulate you on that, and your wedding. I’m a huge Megs fan, but your beautiful wife deserves top billing.” This guy should go into politics with his ass-kissing skills. He can barely take his eyes off Penelope, and the smile frozen on his face stretches all the way to his molars.

“I couldn’t agree more, the little lady always comes first.” I raise Penelope’s hand to my lips and kiss it. I notice her hand is trembling, but you wouldn’t know it by the relaxed look on her face. Good girl.

“All we need is a card to put on file for daily incidentals.”

I pull my wallet out and hand him a gold card. I turn back to Penelope and try to communicate without words how pleased I am that she’s handling the curve balls well. I know she’s chomping at the bit to set the record straight and tell everyone we are not married. This was not something we planned for. Will she be able to play along and see where this adventure takes us? I find that I’m holding my breath and remind myself to breathe.

“We’ve taken the liberty of upgrading your room to a suite. I’m sure you’ll be more comfortable on floor sixteen. Here are two key cards and your credit card.” He hands the items to me.

“Thank you. Where can I find the elevators?”

“Around the corner, sir, on the right. I’ll make sure your luggage is delivered to your room.”

“Thank you.”

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