Page 2 of Married to the Mafia Monster

“What did your mom say?”

“Not much. She died when I was a kid.”

“Oh, I’m sorry.”

“It’s all right. I don’t remember her. Anyway, Dad got a message on his cell, and it sent him into this wild panic, like he thought the apartment was about to explode. Started shoving me out the door. I didn’t even have time to pack.” I lower my voice. “Started saying he screwed up.

“Told me to stay in New York. Said it was only for a day or two and he’d be in touch. I asked if I could take my cellphone, but he said it could be traced too easily. Then he just shoved me out the door.”

“Shit, what did you do?”

“I hid, like he said. Only it’s not easy finding somewhere to sleep without the cops moving you on or some sleazy asshole trying to touch you up.

“I ended up in the alley behind the Dolphin and that’s where Mr. Harris found me. Offered me a job as a chambermaid, said I could live in and get three meals a day.”

“Bet he didn’t mention wanting to fuck you.”

“Funnily enough, he did omit to tell me that part of the job description.”

Lily’s eyes widen. “What’s your dad’s name?”

“Robert, why?”

“Because I’m going to hunt down Robert Bennett and give him a kick up the ass.”

“Don’t go looking for him. You could be putting yourself in danger. I’ve no idea what’s going on with him but I’ve never seen him look that scared.”

The doors slide open to reveal a hallway lined with plush carpeting. Elegantly decorated doors lead to the guest rooms. “1207 is down to the right,” Lily says, stepping out first. I follow closely behind, pushing my cleaning cart.

“I wonder why your dad didn’t tell you what was happening?” Lily asks as we walk down the hallway.

“I don’t know,” I admit. “He just said it was important that I stay away. Not try to call him or anything. Said he’d be in touch as soon as he can. It’s been two weeks, and I’ve still not heard anything.”

“Maybe he’s tried to get in touch but doesn’t know how.”

“I thought about ringing him, but then I remember how scared he looked when he told me not to. I’ve never seen him like that.”

She turns to face me, her expression softening. “Look on the bright side, the longer you’re hiding out here, the more decent company I have. We girls can take care of each other, right? Think of me like your big sister with big tits, okay?”

“They’re not that big.”

“You should see me running. They called me black-eyed Lil last time I went to the gym.”

“Don’t tell Mr. Harris that anecdote. He’ll send the desk bell catapulting across the lobby.”

“Delightful image. Now, let’s get this room spotless before he comes up to supervise in person.”

“We could put him in the trash bag with the rest of the unwanted shit.”

She grins. “That’s the kind of big idea this place needs. They should put you in charge.”

“I wish. You know, I’ve always dreamed of running a hotel like this one.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, I think Lorelai in Gilmore Girls got me thinking about it. Being in charge, meeting new people, making everyone happy.”

“Earning a fortune.”

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