Chapter 38: The Next Step

Mariana finally arrived at her hotel room after resigning from her position back at the Jewelling company. Reaching into her purse, she dialled the hotel service number. "Hello, this is Mariana Silva in room 217," she spoke into the phone. "I'd like to order some room service, please." A cheerful voice greeted her on the other end. "Certainly, Ms. Silva. What can I tempt you with this evening?" Mariana scanned the mental menu in her head. "I'm feeling a bit light, so perhaps a simple salad with grilled chicken and a glass of your house white wine? And maybe some sliced fruit for dessert?" "Excellent choices, Ms. Silva," the voice replied. "Anything else you'd like?" "No, that will be all for now, thank you." "You're welcome, Ms. Silva. Your order should be delivered within thirty minutes." Click. Mariana ended the call and sank into a plush armchair, letting the exhaustion of the day wash over her. A short while later, a knock on the door startled her awake. Yawning