Page 20 of Betrothed
At least that’s what most of our soldiers and men in Dimitri’s employ had been told.
However, lingering in the back of my mind was the real reason for the change in venue.
Revenge.
Best served cold and when least expected.
As the city lights rolled by, I shifted in the backseat of the SUV, staring out at nothing. There was no information on the Ghost and at this point, Kazimir didn’t want photographs of Mikhail circulated in public. I understood the reason why. Doing so would indicate a weakness, our reputation taking a hit. In a world where power and strength meant almost everything, we couldn’t afford to appear weak to anyone.
Least of all the person who’d made the mistake of attacking the Chertov family.
At minimum, Mikhail’s whereabouts needed to be discovered and forever tracked, something Kazimir hadn’t wanted to do when banishing his brother.
I closed my eyes, trying to relax if only for the drive. As soon as I did, images of Vivian rolled through my mind. An unexpected pleasure at a time when I’d needed something to quell my rage.
Her company had been a sheer pleasure.
What a pity I hadn’t found out more about her, including her last name. Sadly, indulging in anything more than the passionate fling wasn’t possible. But I could savor the moments.
I chuckled. If she only knew the filthy things I’d hungered to do. I continued to marvel at my behavior. A little risky, but I would do so again.
Out the windshield, I noticed a well-lit canopy stretching into the street. The decorative lights were exactly as I’d expect to catch the eye of a traveler. While New York certainly had its share of luxury hotels, Chateau Elegance had already hit the media with heightened anticipation, the initial reviews all five-star.
Including for the dining rooms and clubs nestled within.
I’d stay here for a couple of nights while Dimitri finished making arrangements for a house the corporation would rent. While the hotel itself was secure, twenty-four-hour guards on staff, the protection wasn’t enough when playing a dangerous game.
The driver pulled up and instantly, a bellman approached. Since no one other than Dimitri knew of my arrival, I wasn’t worriedabout being a victim. Unless we were talking about a random crime.
With a smile I stepped out, noticing all the beautiful people coming and going into the hotel lobby. I’d been provided with an itinerary of functions, including various music and movie stars making appearances, all well-paid of course.
The official opening was a true event even in a city where they occurred all the time. As I buttoned my jacket, mostly to hide the weapons I was carrying, I took the time to study the exterior façade, including any locations where sharpshooters could perch.
There were enough that I’d need to find out how anyone could gain access.
I’d do a thorough walk around in the morning before making my security recommendations. Dimitri was a true visionary, but he sucked at matters of security.
I headed inside, immediately impressed with the surroundings and décor. No one would ever consider me a dreamer, more pragmatic in my handling of business, but I had a feeling the rich, vibrant hues and over the top decorations would please every female hotel guest.
Maybe it should have the Rafaela test.
Or perhaps the lovely Vivian. Hmmm…
“Mr. Aristov, welcome to Chateau Elegance. Shall I take your things to your room?” the bellman said. As soon as he made eye contact, I made note. He wasn’t a typical bellman. He was another layer of security. Good to know. My guess was that he was in charge of several ‘special’ employees. What better wayto get inside a hotel suite than either a bellman or a waiter delivering room service?
No doubt Kazimir’s idea.
I glanced at his nametag, which of course didn’t contain his real name. “Yes, Michael. That would be perfect.”
“Yes, sir. I hope you enjoy your stay with us. Inside your suite, I believe you’ll find everything you need. However, should you require anything else, please don’t hesitate to call.” He offered a business card, which did have a number. Something different that was being offered to very special guests.
A panic number.
Once the guest made contact, if there was a serious, life-altering altercation, the person would have any number of trained military soldiers at their disposal.
All for a generous cost.
That was my idea and to see it in action was… delicious.
