The Glossy Eyes

Chapter 18: Protection.

The next day, Alannah found herself seated at her usual spot on the small stage, her nimble fingers gliding over the strings of her violin, producing beautiful melodies that resonated in her soul. The sweet, melancholic notes filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere within the hotel.

As she reached a natural break in her playing, Alannah carefully set her violin aside and took a moment to rest. It was during this brief intermission that she sensed Natthaniel's presence nearby. She turned her head in his direction, though her eyes, clouded in darkness, could not meet his gaze.

However, as he approached, Alannah's expression turned from surprise to annoyance. She hissed at him, slightly flustered, "Nate, what are you doing here? I'm at work, and you can't just keep lingering around me. What if the manager sees us? I can't afford to lose this job."

Nathani couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction, finding her concern both adorable and amusing. He leaned in closer, his voice low but filled with confidence. "Relax, Alannah. No one is going to try to fire you. Your talent is undeniable, and your presence adds a certain charm to this place."

Alannah's confusion deepened as she tried to make sense of his words. She couldn't understand why Nathaniel seemed so certain that her job was secure. With a furrowed brow, she questioned him, "But how can you be so sure? What makes you think the manager wouldn't mind?"

Nathaniel's smile widened as he shrugged casually. "Let's just say I have some influence here. People tend to listen when I speak. Besides, your talent speaks for itself. Your music brings joy to everyone who listens, including the manager."

Alannah's eyes widened in surprise and disbelief. She had never considered that Nathaniel might have connections within the hotel. It was both baffling and intriguing at the same time. She couldn't help but ask, "How... how do you have so much influence here? Who are you, really?"

Nathaniel's gaze held a hint of mystery as he simply replied, "I have my ways, Alannah. But trust me, it's nothing sinister. I just want to make sure you're taken care of. You deserve recognition for your incredible talent."

Alannah, with a playful glint in her eyes, couldn't resist teasing Nathaniel about his alleged influence. "Hey Nate, are you secretly selling toy guns to the hotel? Is that why I heard that the security guards are armed with colorful Nerf guns instead of real ones? Is that your secret of the influence in hotel?"

Nathaniel burst into laughter, finding her comment both amusing and endearing. "Oh, you've caught me red-handed, Alannah! I've been supplying the hotel with an arsenal of toy guns to ensure a fun and friendly atmosphere. You never know when a spontaneous Nerf war might break out in the lobby."

Alannah giggled at the mental image of security guards armed with foam darts, ready to defend the hotel with their playful weaponry. "Well, I must say, that's a unique security approach. Who needs real guns when you have a squad of toy gun-wielding guards?"

Nathaniel played along, adopting a mock-serious tone. "Exactly! Our guests may not be safe from actual threats, but they'll definitely be protected from boredom and gloom."

The two of them shared a lighthearted moment, their laughter echoing through the hotel. In that instant, the weight of the world seemed to lift, replaced by the sheer joy of silly banter and shared humor.

As the laughter subsided, Nathaniel winked at Alannah. "But rest assured, Alannah, if there's ever a real danger, I'll be the first to unleash my secret stash of invisible toy guns. The bad guys won't see it coming!"

Alannah couldn't help but burst into giggles at his imaginative response. "Invisible toy guns? Now that's a superhero power I'd love to see!"

As Nathaniel engaged in conversation with Alannah, he noticed the cautious glances from the staff members nearby. Being the owner of the hotel, his interactions with the staff were typically limited to business matters, and his casual conversation with Alannah seemed to raise a few eyebrows.

Realizing the potential implications, Nathaniel politely excused himself from Alannah's side, assuring her that he would return shortly. He understood the need to maintain a professional image and didn't want Alannah to face any unnecessary scrutiny or discomfort due to their conversation.

Nathaniel stood at the front of the meeting room, his demeanor serious yet composed. Every staff member had gathered, their eyes fixed on him, anticipating his words. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of curiosity and tension, as they wondered what the owner had called them together for.

Taking a deep breath, Nathaniel began addressing the room, his voice carrying authority tempered with a touch of kindness. "Thank you all for being here today. I've called this meeting to discuss a matter of utmost importance. As you know, Alannah, our talented violinist, is a valued member of our team."

He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "It has come to my attention that some conversations about me, my role as the owner, or any connection between us have been circulating. I understand the intrigue and curiosity, but I must insist on a particular rule regarding Alannah."

Nathaniel's gaze swept across the room, ensuring he had everyone's attention. "From this moment forward, I ask that you refrain from discussing my position or any personal connection with Alannah. While she is free to form friendships and engage in conversations with all of you, I want her to feel comfortable and welcomed without any undue influence or bias."

His voice remained firm, yet his eyes conveyed a sense of understanding. "I respect the bond and trust that you share with Alannah, and I want her to feel at ease in this environment. If anyone disregards this request and intentionally brings up my name or role, consequences will follow. You will have to find a way to change planets to avoid my... let's say, disappointment."

The room fell into a momentary silence, as the staff members absorbed Nathaniel's words. His message was clear: Alannah's well-being and comfort were of utmost importance, and any interference that could potentially disrupt that would not be tolerated.

Nathaniel concluded the meeting with a more gentle tone, emphasizing his appreciation for their cooperation. "I trust that each one of you will respect this request and continue to create a welcoming and supportive environment for Alannah. She is an integral part of our team, and her talent and presence bring joy to our guests and staff alike."

With a nod, Nathaniel dismissed the meeting, allowing the staff members to disperse and carry out their respective duties