One spare pair of socks.
Nothing stolen.
Nothing suspicious.
Derek looked almost disappointed.
Margaret closed the bag.
“Finished?”
The security officer nodded.
“Yes, ma'am. Thank you.”
Margaret pushed the card toward Chloe.
“Please process the room.”
Chloe picked it up reluctantly.
Typed.
Her eyes changed when the screen responded.
“Payment approved.”
Derek looked over.
“Seriously?”
Chloe nodded.
Margaret said nothing.
Derek turned toward her.
“Room 214.”
Margaret waited.
No apology.
No reduction to the normal rate.
No acknowledgment that the hotel was not full.
Just punishment converted into a sale.
Chloe placed the key card on the desk.
“Don't make a mess.”
Sam's face hardened.
Margaret picked up the card.
Then noticed the towel still in his hands.
Sam held it out.
“For your coat.”
“Thank you.”
He glanced toward Derek.
“I can carry your bag.”
Margaret smiled.
“I think I can manage.”
“Then at least let me show you the elevator.”
Derek snapped, “Sam.”