“When that happens, ask one more question before carrying it out.”
Dana’s face changed.
Not understanding yet.
But listening.
Willa walked toward the elevators.
Behind her, Garrett raised his coffee cup.
A tiny satisfied toast.
He believed he had won.
That certainty lasted less than two hours.
Willa rode down to the lobby.
The lower level felt almost peaceful after the VIP floor.
Families checked luggage.
A bellhop pushed a brass cart.
A couple argued quietly about dinner reservations.
Willa sat near the revolving door.
Opened the iPad.
Did not read.
Eleven minutes later, Rachel Bennett called.
“Where are you?”
“Lobby.”
“The lobby?”
“Yes.”
“I went to VIP. They said you left.”
“I was asked to leave.”
Silence.
Rachel’s voice changed.
“By whom?”
“A staff member named Dana Kim.”
“For what?”
“A guest complained.”
“What did they say you did?”
“Made people uncomfortable.”
Another silence.
Rachel inhaled.
“Stay there.”
“Rachel—”