by J.R. Bowles
* * *
As the elevator doors closed, Bernie, Jackie and Zolar entered the hotel lobby.
“Are you sure this is the place?” Jackie asked.
“I can't be sure, but the vibrations are definitely coming from here,” Zolar answered, holding the door for them.
Bernie walked up to the counter. “We would like a suite with three bedrooms.”
Rudy, punched at his computer. “The only suite I have is two bedrooms, with a fold-out couch, on the second floor.”
“That will do,” Bernie said.
“How long would you like that?” Rudy eyed the three of them as if he figured they were planing an orgy.
“I'm not sure,” Bernie answered, sensing Rudy's thought vibration and reading his expression. “I guess one big king-size bed would actually do, but we will have to sleep sometimes,” he chuckled.
Zolar caught on to the game and added, “This way, we can have all the beds filled.”
When Jackie felt Bernie's elbow in her side she joined in the antics. “Besides, I might throw both of you out for someone else and where would you two sleep then?”
“I'm hurt,” Zolar joked. “Well, if you throw me out, I'll still have Bernie.”
“How long will that be?” Rudy repeated, getting wrapped up into the conversation.
“About that long,” Bernie spread his hands apart about eight inches.
“No, I mean how many nights would you like the suite?” Rudy sputtered turning scarlet.
“Two weeks,” Zolar answered.
“And how would you like to pay for that?” Rudy asked.
“Would you take it out in trade?” Jackie patted Rudy's hand, and he pulled away as if he had been stung by a bee.
“Listen, I've had just about enough!” Rudy snapped, hands on his hips.
“Enough? You haven't had any yet.” The three of them chimed in simultaneously and roared with laughter.
Rudy's face reddened. He became very stern. “Look, you comedians, either pay or get out.”
Zolar paid him cash.
“Here's your room cards suite 240.”
They all laughed as they headed toward the elevator.
Rudy watched them as they walked away. “I hope they get theirs.” he said out loud to himself then muttered under his breath. “I haven’t seen so many people paying in cash since Fleet Week.”
