Page 7 of The Bet (The Players 1)

Drew was leaned back in his arm chair, lids lowered, a glass of ice water pressed against his temple. He opened his eyes and frowned at me. “I thought we were already going to Vegas.”

I laughed. “We were. This time, my father is paying for everything.” I folded my arms behind my head and waited for them to react.

“What?” Harry was appropriately happy.

“Cool.” Drew barely grunted.

“Go back to sleep, Drew,” I mumbled. Then I turned my attention to Harry. “Yeah. He wanted to buy this hotel and casino. He sent me the address. We have to stay there.”

“But we always stay in a suite at the Venetian,” Harry complained.

“I know, but this time we’re staying forfreewherever my father tells us.” My brow rose, signaling the end of the discussion, only it wasn’t.

“But I’ll gladly pay to stay at the Venetian.” He sighed as he sank down on the love seat across from me.

“I get it, but I have to do market research.” I leaned forward and rested my elbows on my thighs. “Look at all the money you’ll save. Good old Dad is paying for everything, but gambling.”

Harry held his head. “Trying to think positive.” He closed his eyes. “More money for gambling?”

I nodded. “That’s the spirit. More money for gambling.” I stood. “And you may need plane tickets.”

“Why’s that?” Harry eyed me curiously.

“Well, I’ve been instructed to stay until I close the deal, no matter how long it takes.” I chuckled.

Harry pursed his lips and nodded. “So, you’re moving to Vegas.”

I laid my hand on his shoulder and dug my fingers in until he squirmed. “Your faith in me is overwhelming, jackass.” I released him and he sighed in relief. “Now let’s get out of here.”

4

Kate

At six thirtyin the evening, I was finally wrapping up all the month ending paperwork when the girl running the desk buzzed me. “Miss Kate,” she whispered into the phone, “I need a little help out here.”

“Is there a line?” I frowned. This often happened in the evening as people flew into Vegas and rushed to their hotels.

“No, I don’t know where to put these gentlemen. I need help.” I could tell she had her hand cupped around the mouthpiece.

I rubbed my temples. This day would never end. No wonder I hated this place. No wonder I wanted no part of running it for the rest of my natural life. “I’ll be right out.” Hanging up the phone, I stretched before standing and exiting my office. It was a short walk to the elevator, but a painful wait for it to reach our offices in the middle of the high-rise. Finally, I emerged in the back of registration and strode down the long hall to the front desk. I pasted a smile on my face before reaching her side.

“How can I help?” I smiled at the three men standing on the other side of the counter and then at the nervous woman standing beside me.

“Well…” The girl’s voice trailed off. She was new and obviously, something about these men intimidated her.

“Hello.” One of the men smiled at me. “We’re looking for a suite with three bedrooms, one for each of us. This lovely young lady has informed me that such a thing does not exist.” Then he waited for me to speak. He was good, obviously trained in sales.

“She’s correct.” I nodded, then I glanced at my employee and gestured to the computer system. “May I?” Her shoulders relaxed and I swear I could hear her entire body sigh in relief. Then she stepped aside and I moved into her place. I played with the registrations, looking at what we had open on each floor. While I worked, the gentleman continued to speak to me.

“Does it not exist or is it not available?” He frowned.

“It doesn’t exist.” My head tilted to the side as I watched his reaction. “We’re working on a feasibility study, trying to figure out how to make the best use of space. It’s complicated, but trust that we’re aware of this concern from our guests.” Once again, I channeled my best calm customer service façade.

“I see.” He stood quietly for a moment while I continued working. “What do you suggest we do instead because my friend would like us to pack up and go to the Venetian.” He jerked his thumb at the guy on his right side who immediately turned three shades of crimson.

See, in my mind, I’m frustrated because I’ve worked a twelve-hour day, which might have been shorter if my father had left me the fuck alone, or could’ve been longer without Marie’s help. Now, I’m dealing with a couple of spoiled little rich kids who want to pout and leave because they can’t have their way. In reality, I’d love to have our bellhop load their suitcases and help them on their way. Instead, I inhale deeply for a moment because I can feel the twitching under my left eye.

“Here’s a fine solution. We have three single suites with interconnecting doors. These were designed with families in mind, so they could have children in one room and they’d stay in another. If we go this route, you’ll have roughly 3600 square feet of living area. We’re talking three king sized beds, three full bathrooms, and plenty of privacy.” I smiled brightly, even though I wasn’t really feeling it.

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