Nefertiti Nights

Chapter 1

As she walked into the foyer of the hotel, she looked around impressed. Although this was not quite how she intended to spend her work retreat, it would do nicely.

Beatrice, or Bea as she preferred, walked up to the check in desk and rang the bell atop the smooth, walnut counter. She turned to admire the room around her when she heard a deep voice behind her.

“Welcome to the Nefertiti hotel. My name is Jonathan Pine, I am the night manager. How may I help you?”

As she spun to face the voice, she was taken aback by the man in front of her. He was tall with light brown short hair and dazzling blue eyes. He had an equally dazzling smile with a beautifully chiselled jawline and… She was staring.

“How may I help you?” the man asked again, with an easy smile.

“Gosh, I’m so sorry!” Bea spluttered. “It’s late and I was just admiring the decor. My name is Beatrice Tallow. I believe my boss has booked me in for a few nights stay.”

The man typed a few things into the screen in front of him and nodded.

“Ah yes! Miss Tallow! We get quite a few reservations from Mr Lowe. Is this your first time in Cairo?”

“It is, actually. I probably wouldn’t have picked such a time but… business goes on.” She smiled at him.

“Indeed it does, Miss Tallow…”

“Please,” She interrupted. “Call me Bea.”

“Well then, Bea. I wish to assure you that the staff of the Nefertiti are doing our utmost to ensure that our visitors have the usual high standards of care during these trying times we are experiencing.” He smiled that dazzling smile again.

“Mr… Pine, was it?” She queried.

“Jonathan Pine.” He extended his hand to her. “Call me Jonathan.”

“Well then, Jonathan. I thank you for your help and assurances. I hope to see you again before I leave in a few days.” Bea looked up shyly at him.

“I am quite sure we will bump into each other again, Bea. Now, I will just get one of our staff members to help you with your luggage and show you to your room. I hope you find everything to your satisfaction. If you require anything, there is a phone in your room and a member of staff will be sure to help - it may even be myself.” He chuckled and gestured to a young man to come help her.

Bea turned to follow the young man. She looked back over her shoulder.

“Thank you, Mr Pine.”

She wasn't sure but she swore she felt his eyes on her as she walked on.