A Very Reckless Christmas

Nick

A high pitched scream came from the bathroom. Maya sped out of the bathroom and into my arms.

"Baby, what's wrong?" I asked worriedly.

"There's—there's—," she stammered, unable to speak. "There's a rat in the sink."

"What?"

"Not a big one, a small one. A baby, I think." Dry heaving, she put her hand over her mouth. "Oh, God, I think I'm going to be sick."

"Maya, we're not staying here," I said putting my foot down. The lack of heat was something I could take, but rodents, absolutely not. This place should be condemned, and the person passing this off as some luxury getaway is a fraud.

"But where are we going to go?" she fretted, looking around skittishly. "Everywhere is booked for the holidays."

"Don't worry about it. I'll handle it," I promised.

"I'm sorry," she frowned, on the verge of tears. "I ruined our vacation."

"No, you didn't." I knew this place sounded too good for the price. But she was excited about it so I went along with it. "Just put everything back in your bags. I have to make a call and I'll be right back."

Knowing what I was about to do made me sick to my stomach, but I didn't have any other options. It was the day after Christmas, and all the hotels were booked, but I knew a place where there was always a penthouse suite available.

With my phone to my ear, I went into the grimey kitchen. I was glad Maya hadn't come in here she would have had a fit.

"Ainsworth Deluxe Hotel and Spa, Rebecca speaking how may I help you."

"Hi, um, this is Nick Ainsworth, I'm in town for the weekend with my girlfriend and was wondering if the penthouse was available."

"Oh, yes, Mr. Ainsworth, it is available. When can we expect you?"

I looked at the time on my phone. "Can it be ready in thirty minutes?"

"Of course, we look forward to seeing you."

"Thank you so much, Rebecca."

I hated that I had to pull the 'I'm Nick Ainsworth," card, but we needed somewhere to go. Luckily my father hadn't completely cut me off, I still had access to all the hotels, resorts, and clubs that Ainsworth Industries had to offer. It was something I didn't like utilizing, but it was good for when I needed it.

"Maya, are you ready?" I asked coming out of the kitchen.

With both of our bags in tow, Maya was at the door before I could blink. "Let's get the hell out of here."

I've never seen her move so quickly. She was out the door before I could even get my keys out of my pocket.

I threw both our bags in the trunk before beginning the journey to Ainsworth Deluxe Hotel and Spa, New York City's premiere destination for luxury and comfort.

The route came to me easily. Before my mom left we would come here several times a year-- holidays, summer vacations, spring break, or whenever she just wanted to get away from the suburbs. Out of all our hotels, this was her favorite. And I can see why it has everything; thirty floors, two restaurants, a full spa, and indoor and outdoor pools.

It was almost impossible to get a reservation here, unless you're me, of course. The penthouse was reserved for Ainsworths only. And with Dad's move to Italy, and my mother getting banned after the divorce, that just leaves me. I never thought I would come here again, but I'd rather stay here than in a rat-infested apartment.