Holiday Hotel by Poppy Minnix

Author:Poppy Minnix
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-64898-106-7
Publisher: City Owl Press

12

Saucy Gingerbread

“Hello, my beautiful American flower!” Jose yells from the lobby, scaring the Krampus out of me.

I stumble and pivot to wave at him and Walt, who’s leaning over the welcome desk talking to Jennifer. “Merry Christmas, lovies. How was your Christmas Eve?” I glance back toward the dining hall, but Nico’s not waiting so I head toward the men.

“Slow after the dance show,” Jose says with a pouty lip as they meet me halfway. “Where’s your delectable sidekick?”

I tilt my head, and Walt gives a mischievous chuckle, slapping Jose’s chest with the back of his hand. “Shall we attempt to maintain an iota of professionalism, my love? Cozette doesn’t work here.”

“She will when I seduce her and keep her forever.” Jose waggles his dark brows at Walt’s glare and steps forward to bring me to him, stepping into a tango. “When this thing passes on, we should show you around the island. There’s a waterfall you would love to see.”

“Would I?” I ask as he spins me.

“It’s a beautiful island, full of heavenly little spots to explore. I’ve been here five years, so I know all the best spots.”

“Did you move here together?” I ask, whirling by Walt.

“Nope,” Jose answers. “My Casanova arrived from Virginia a year ago.”

“Almost two,” Walt adds.

“Did you know each other before that?” They’re the kind of couple who seem like they’ve been together forever.

They both laugh, showing all teeth.

“Oh no,” Jose says. “Walt avoided me when he arrived. Can you believe it? He took his time warming up to me.”

Walt crosses his arms. “I was new, and you were overwhelming.”

“Gasp!” Jose says. “Moi? I haven’t a clue what you’re talking about.” He dips me with flourish, then sends us into a centrifugal force-driven twirl.

I laugh. “Dance me in that direction, charmer. I have to meet Nico.” I point down the hall—or try to, as we’re spinning fast.

He abruptly halts. “Oh yeah?”

“Jose,” Walt warns a half-second before Jose yells “Yes!” so loud, half the Caribbean probably heard him. “I mean. Yay.” He shakes his fist in the air. “You’re here until Friday?”

I nod, already feeling a chill cloud over the warmth of being included. I do want to explore this island. I want to see a waterfall, find little secret spots, and attend unique events. There are hints of a culture I haven’t dove into yet scattered around the hotel and in the breezy attitudes of the people. I’m not going to have time to experience it all, especially during a storm.

Jose snaps me closer and foxtrots toward the dining hall. “We must enjoy every second with you that we can. Where are we going?”

I straighten my posture and follow his lead. “Dining hall, please.”

“Cookies,” Walt groans with his tongue lolling out. “K, let’s go. Cookies.” He speeds off, arms punching out and hips wiggling.

The buzz of laughter is raucous over instrumental Christmas music as we dance into the dining hall. Nico’s not here yet, but Ilaria flits around a double table setup as six

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