Race to the Rocks by Katherine McLaren

Author:Katherine McLaren
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Historical Romance, Horseracing, Yorkshire, Bad Boy Romance, Runaway Bride
Publisher: Kat Mclaren
Published: 2021-03-07T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 14 – The Savoy

The Savoy opened in 1889 and quickly gained a reputation as London’s most prestigious hotel, attracting a host of both famous and fashionable guests. The hotel enjoyed the patronage of The Prince of Wales who was a loyal client of César Ritz, the first general manager of the luxury hotel, and the Prince was reputed to have said; “Where Ritz goes, I go”.

It wasn’t the first time I had frequented the hotel. I’d been for afternoon tea twice with my mother so I knew what to expect and wondered if their protocols would be tolerated by Conor. He had little respect for class or rules of etiquette and that issue presented itself as soon as we stepped into the vast, opulent reception hall.

“We’re here to check-in,” said Conor, as the concierge greeted us speculatively over the marble reception desk which was bedecked with flowers.

“Can I take your name please, Sir?”

“Kendal,” replied Conor. The concierge peered at us and consulted a book on the vast countertop set before him. He took an age to run a pen down the list of names, then glanced at us both again. I smelt trouble. Conor’s face was impassive as we waited.

“I’m sorry, Sir,” said the concierge, looking around to make sure no one else could hear. “The Savoy does not allow unmarried guests to stay overnight on our premises. I’m afraid I can’t see a wedding ring on either of your fingers.”

Conor took the slight with calm composure. The way he serenely assessed the gentleman who had offended us, slowly contemplating the moment he would attack. But Conor did not pull a gun from his holster. No. Instead, he reached into his pocket and retrieved a fat roll of banknotes which he placed on top of the counter with a bang. “We’re on our honeymoon,” said Conor. “We are also guests at tonight’s ball.” His accompanying stare dared the concierge to defy him now.

“Congratulations,” the man hastily replied. “I’ll be sure to place you on our very important person list.”

“Good lad,” said Conor.

“You're welcome, Mister Kendal.”

Our suite was the absolute height of luxury. “What a stunning room,” I said as he held the door open for me.

“I told you, money is no object.”

“Are you trying to impress me, Conor?”

His smile lit up his face. “I’m just getting used to living like a king. Soon, I’ll have more money than all the toffs going to this ball put together. No offence, Your Ladyship.”

I didn’t doubt it. “None taken, Sir. This man you will meet tonight, I assume that he will be a source of your newfound income?” I knew this question should not be asked but I was becoming bolder with him as time went on and took more liberties.

“Rosie,” he sighed.

I cut in before he continued. “I come here at great personal risk, Conor. I should like to know that my sacrifice is worthwhile.”

He shook his head. “So, a pretty frock, a party, and an expensive hotel room are not enough to satisfy you, eh?”

I didn’t want him to think I was ungrateful.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.