Waking Up In Vegas by J.E. Rowney

Author:J.E. Rowney [Rowney, J.E.]
Language: eng
Format: epub, azw3, mobi
Tags: Heist Thriller
Publisher: Little Fox Publishing
Published: 2024-10-25T00:00:00+00:00

TWENTY-ONE

THIS MORNING

Making their way towards The Enigma, Jess’s jeans felt uncomfortably tight, a stark reminder of the indulgences from the night before. Olivia had managed to find an oversized t-shirt that barely covered the hem of her shorts, while Megan looked starkly casual in yoga pants and tank top. Lisa was the only one who looked as though she had made an effort. She was wearing red shorts and a white crop top that emphasised her best assets. Her blonde hair was impeccable, and Jess was pretty sure that although Lisa was going to a natural look, she was wearing makeup.

Jess smiled internally, wondering if the effort was for Alex’s benefit. Even with Lisa’s contribution, they were a very different group from the polished, excited group that had arrived in Vegas just a day before.

The heat of the desert sun was already intense. Jess clicked open her phone: it was nearly 11am. They had barely two hours to find Rachel. The air shimmered above the pavement, creating mirages that seemed to embody the illusive nature of their search. Jess could feel sweat beading on her forehead, and she wished she’d thought to bring her sunglasses.

They entered the hotel lobby, the blast of air conditioning a welcome relief from the outdoor heat. The hotel and casino was so plain on the outside, but the interior was a feast for the eyes - lush tropical plants, gurgling water features, and intricate mosaics covering every surface. Under different circumstances, Jess would have been awestruck. Now, she barely noticed the opulence, her eyes scanning for anyone who might help them.

Alex took the lead, approaching the front desk with a confidence that surprised the others. His amiable smile and familiar manner as he chatted with the receptionist spoke of someone used to navigating the complex social dynamics of the Vegas hospitality scene.

The girls hung back, trying to blend in. As they waited, Jess found her mind wandering back to her conversation with Miles. Had she made the right decision in keeping him in the dark? The doubt must have shown on her face, because Lisa gently squeezed her arm.

“Hey,” Lisa said softly, “Thinking about Miles? You did what you thought was best. We’ll figure this out together, okay?”

Jess nodded, grateful for the support. She looked around at her friends - Megan’s determined focus as she tapped away at her phone, likely researching something relevant to their search; Olivia’s restless energy; Lisa’s steady presence at her side. And Alex, this near-stranger who had seemingly become an integral part of their mission.

They could see him leaning over the desk, looking at a monitor, talking to the receptionist, nodding, smiling.

When Alex returned, his expression was a mix of triumph and confusion. The group gathered around him, eager for news.

“I’ve got something, but I’m not sure if it helps,” he said. “I saw the CCTV footage. You all arrived with Rachel, and you left with her, too. Or more to the point, WE did.”

“What? Are you sure?” Jess asked.

Alex nodded.

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