Page 109 of Blood & Snow
She gestures at the ornaments, and she's probably right.
Those crystals look expensive.
I'd never even think of buying something so wasteful.
"These aren't department store decorations, Nadya. This is crystal. Real crystal."
My mouth goes dry.
"Some of the foreign guests tip well during the holidays. Americans, Germans?—"
"Don't."
The single word cuts through my explanation.
"Don't lie to me."
My lies are finding me out, catching up with me.
My head is spinning as I set my purse on the counter, buying time to construct a believable story.
I feel like the walls are closing in and I pull at my collar as my breathing constricts.
She's not just suspicious, now she has proof.
"The hotel gets wealthy travelers this time of year. Business executives, diplomats. They appreciate good service, and I work extra shifts?—"
"Show me your pay stubs."
She holds out her hand, crossing one arm over her middle.
"Show me the markup for your tips. Stop lying to me!"
If she spoke any louder the walls would rattle, but I can't defend myself.
"What?" I ask, feeling dazed.
I rub my face, shake my head. I'm backed into a corner.
There's nowhere to run or hide from this.
"Your pay stubs. If you're working extra shifts for generous tips, show me the documentation."
My hands shake as I pretend to search through my purse.
"I don't have them with me. They're at the hotel, in my locker?—"
"When did you start wearing designer clothes?"
She reaches out, pulling at the collar of my coat until I’m turning around, bent at an awkward angle for her to look at the tag.
I glance down at my coat—black wool with silver buttons, cut to flatter my figure.
Xander had it delivered to his apartment three days ago, along with matching gloves and a scarf I had to refuse.
They scream money, and money is something I don't have.
Or I shouldn't…
