119. Morning Light: A Breakfast of Dreams

As they stepped inside, they were greeted by a musty odor that lingered in the air, accompanied by the sound of creaking floorboards and distant murmurs. The lobby was devoid of any semblance of hospitality, with threadbare furniture and peeling wallpaper casting a pall over the dismal surroundings. Damon exchanged a bemused glance with Lia, his lips quirking into a wry smile. "Well, this is certainly... unexpected," he remarked, his voice tinged with amusement. Lia nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the room for any sign of hope amidst the chaos. "I'm sure it's not as bad as it looks," she offered optimistically, though her tone betrayed a hint of uncertainty. Just then, a disheveled man emerged from behind the front desk, his appearance mirroring the state of the hotel—rumpled and unkempt. "Welcome to the Paradise Inn," he greeted, his voice lacking any semblance of enthusiasm. Damon and Lia exchanged a wary glance, their suspicions growing with each passing moment. "