The Unicorn Under the Bed
Lily’s room was chaos of color. Her bottom stuck out as she burrowed halfway under her princess bed, legs kicking. "Mommy, help! It’s too dark! I can’t see!" Kneeling, the scent of dust and old stuffed animals filled my nose. Reaching into the dimness, fingertips brushing soft fur. I pulled out the slightly threadbare pink unicorn. "Ah! My Amelia!" Lily snatched it, hugging tight, cheek nuzzling the mane. "I knew she was here! She always hides!" Her frown vanished instantly, eyes crinkling with joy. A child’s happiness, so pure and direct.
Mark's "Late Night"
Amelia secured, Lily snuggled down. I tucked her dinosaur comforter around her, gently patting. Her breathing evened out quickly, a small fist loosely gripping the unicorn’s horn. I slipped out, closing the door softly. The living room quiet descended. The wall clock’s ticks echoed. Tick. Tock. Almost nine. Outside, the city’s glow painted the sky a muddy orange. Mark said "super late." How late? Midnight? One AM? Or another dawn with no sign of him? "With clients"… Did that mean he couldn’t even send a text to say he was safe? He used to. "Wrapping up soon" or "In the cab." Now, silence.
The Search
Impulse drove me to the study. My laptop screen glowed coldly. Fingers slid across the trackpad, opening the seldom-used browser. The cursor hovered over the search bar. My breath hitched. My fingertip pressed down, typing the hotel’s name.
My knuckles whitened hitting Enter. Information flooded the screen. Glossy official photos: crystal chandeliers, rooftop pools with city views, plush suites. Exorbitant prices. Promos screamed "Experience Luxury, Your Ultimate Romantic Weekend." But my gaze snagged on forum links buried in corners: "Hidden entrance @ XX Hotel, insiders only ;)" "XX Hotel soundproofing TESTED (you know what for)" "Business hotel? Pfft. Check the lobby scenery after midnight." A lump of ice settled in my stomach, dragging me down. Fingertips turned to ice.
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