Chapter 3: Petty Power Plays and Rainy Revenge

"Our company’s a corporate member—even during promos it never goes below $150."

"Maybe she’s just venting because she’s unhappy in her own life!"

The whispers stung, but I kept my chin up. I wasn’t about to let them see me sweat. Not today.

Madison smirked at all the comments about me. I caught her looking smug, soaking it in.

She leaned against the counter, arms crossed, soaking in the attention. What a show-off, I thought.

She looked like she’d just scored a touchdown. Figures.

"Our hotel isn’t a place for people to mess around!" she declared, as if she was the sheriff of some upscale town. Please.

I rolled my eyes so hard I thought they might stick.

I held back my anger. "$229 a night, right? Give me a room." Might as well get it over with, I thought.

My voice was ice-cold. If I had to pay more, fine. But I wasn’t going anywhere.

Madison snorted and switched to fake politeness. I could practically see her rolling her eyes on the inside.

She slid the card across the counter with a flourish, sarcasm lacing every word. I snatched it up, refusing to look at her.

I finally got my room card, but there was no breakfast coupon. Figures.

"Where’s my breakfast coupon?" I asked, trying not to sound too desperate.

My stomach rumbled, reminding me I hadn’t eaten since the drive in.

I tried to keep my tone even, even though I wanted to scream.

Madison’s eyes narrowed. "$229 doesn’t include breakfast. If you want breakfast, it’s an extra $15 per person. But honestly, you don’t look like you need it."

Her words hit like a sucker punch. I bit my tongue, refusing to give her the satisfaction of a reaction. My fists clenched at my sides.

I swallowed my frustration and told myself, "You’re here to have fun—stay positive." Yeah, right.

I repeated it like a mantra. Stay positive, I mocked myself. I wasn’t going to let one rude receptionist ruin my whole weekend.

I forced a smile, grabbed my bag, and headed for the elevator.

After unpacking and getting ready to head out, I saw it was raining. Of course it was.

Of course. The sky outside the window was a dull gray, rain streaking the glass. The universe had a sense of humor. Just my luck.

There was a stand with free umbrellas by the door.

A little stand by the door, a rainbow of handles sticking out. I reached for one, grateful for small mercies.

I walked over to take one, but someone blocked my hand. You’ve got to be kidding me, I thought.

I looked up—it was Madison again.

She immediately took all the umbrellas away. "Sorry, our VIP guests are going out. All the umbrellas are reserved for them." Her smile was all challenge.

She stacked them behind the desk, her eyes daring me to argue. Was this real life? The absurdity of it all almost made me laugh.

"Can they really use three umbrellas at once? Besides, don’t VIPs have drivers picking them up in the parking lot? Why would they need umbrellas?" I shot back, voice dripping with sarcasm.

My sarcasm was lost on her, or maybe she just didn’t care. She turned her back, pretending I didn’t exist. Classic.

Madison ignored me, but her eyes lit up when she saw the people behind me. Of course.

She perked up, smile wide. It was like watching a stage actress hit her mark. What a performance.

She hurried over. "Uncle Rick, Aunt Marsha, it’s raining—here are the hotel umbrellas for you."

She handed them over with a flourish, as if she’d just saved the day. The family grinned, oblivious to the drama. Must be nice.

The man smiled. "Mom, Dad, look how thoughtful Maddie is!" I rolled my eyes.

He beamed, clearly proud. The older couple nodded, umbrellas in hand, ready to brave the drizzle. I watched, unimpressed.

The two elders nodded in approval, clearly pleased with themselves.

They patted Madison’s arm, murmuring their thanks. She glowed under their praise, shooting me a triumphant glance. Oh, please.

My patience snapped. I reached out, my hand on her sleeve. "They’re also staying in king rooms—what makes them VIPs? If they can use umbrellas, so can I."