10
421words
"Leo, you stay here. Make sure they don't leave. Your cousin and I are going downstairs."
I gave the Bluetooth earpiece to Leo, telling him to connect it to his phone.
The signal wouldn't reach if he went too far, so he had to stay.
We needed to monitor the pair's plans in real time. Know your enemy.
Harper immediately grabbed the earpiece, saying she wanted to hear what was going on inside.
I just rolled my eyes at her curiosity.
"Okay, I'll go with you. But we can't just let them off the hook."
"Of course not. I'm going downstairs for the next part of the plan. A plan that will make them open that door immediately."
"What plan?"
"No questions. Just come with me."
Harper looked confused but followed me. Down in the lobby, I didn't beat around the bush.
I dialed 911.
"Officer, I'd like to report suspected solicitation of prostitution in room 503 at the Crystal Hotel. Please come quickly and bring them to justice."
Harper's jaw dropped. She gave me a huge thumbs-up.
"Girl, you're ruthless. Let's see them hide from the cops! I'll get the camera ready!"
I didn't really want to do this.
Calling the cops meant no going back.
It meant any shred of dignity was gone.
But for a bastard like this, who hid behind a door and couldn't even face me, who needed dignity?
Maybe the police would notify his company, and his boss would have to come get him.
Soon, a patrol car with flashing lights pulled into the hotel drive.
Three officers, two men and a woman, got out.
The manager rushed over.
Usually, a place like this had some pull, some local connections.
Otherwise, trouble from local toughs or constant inspections would make business impossible.
The manager didn't seem too concerned.
But he didn't know: when a report comes in, they have to respond. And they have to follow through.
The manager tried to schmooze with the officers. They ignored him.
"Get a key card. Take us to room 503."
The manager started to look nervous.
If prostitution was confirmed, the hotel could be shut down for inspection. His job would be over.
But facing the officers' stern looks, he had no choice.
He got a key card from the front desk and led the police to the 5th floor.
Watching them get in the elevator, I quickly followed.
