Page 38 of Broken Desires
I can’t help but wonder if it’s a present from Liam or a trick from Cole, but I also decide that we should enjoy the lavishness of whatever luxury we’ll be getting.
When we meet Poppy by the elevator she’s texting.
“Ethan is on the tenth floor.”
“We’re on the ninth.”
The elevator ride to our suite is full of that electric excitement that only Vegas can inspire. When we step into our room, it’s like entering another world. The suite is massive, and the view—it’s something else.
I drop my suitcase by the bed, barely giving it a second glance as I’m drawn to the window, mesmerized by the view. The Las Vegas Strip stretches out before us, a dazzling display of lights and colors that promises magic as soon as the sun dips below the horizon. I’m already imagining how it will transform at night when my watch buzzes with a message.
BB: An Uber will pick you up in 30 minutes. I’ve got a surprise for you.
My heart skips a beat, excitement coursing through me at the thought of what Liam has planned. I can’t help but feel a rush of anticipation, wondering what the evening holds.
Turning to share this with Eva, I find her already watching me, a knowing smile playing on her lips. It’s becoming clear that I’m not as good at hiding my feelings for Liam as I thought. And truthfully? I’m okay with that. There’s a part of me that’s ready for everyone to know, to bring what we have into the light. Yet, there’s this hesitance, a set of rules I’ve been clinging to even as Liam seems to disregard them with each passing day.
Before I can fabricate an excuse for why I’ll be ditching them tonight, Eva comes to my rescue. “I was thinking of catching a cabaret show tonight, but I know you’re not into musicals. Mind if I go with Poppy?”
Her understanding brings a genuine smile to my face, and I can’t muster the energy to pretend. “Thank you.”
She winks at me, her smile light and teasing. “Have fun,” she encourages, already rummaging through her suitcase for her evening dress.
Her words spring me into action, and before I know it, I’m ready and waiting downstairs, just in time to see the Uber pull up to the hotel. The night ahead promises to be unforgettable, and as I step into the car, I feel a mix of nerves and excitement. Tonight, the rules might just have to wait.
As the Uber veers off the main strip, taking us into the quieter parts of Vegas, a flutter of nervousness tickles my stomach. The glitzy, glamorous Vegas I’m familiar with fades away in the rearview mirror, replaced by the more subdued, everyday face of the town. It’s a side of Vegas most tourists don’t see, and it’s not long before my imagination starts to run wild. I half joke to myself that this could be the start of a crime show scenario.
Grabbing my phone, I quickly send a message to Liam, looking for some reassurance.
Me: Are we supposed to head into town? Where are we going?
His response comes almost immediately, calming my nerves.
BB: Yes, don’t worry - I’m following the ride on my phone. You’re safe. You’ll be here in less than five.
I’m safe. Those words, so casually sent, mean everything to me. Feeling safe with anyone is a new and precious experience, something I cherish.
As the car slows and stops in front of a sleek, all-glass building, I find myself puzzled. “Thank you…” I say, trailing off as I exit the Uber and stare at the sign above the entrance, National Institute of Sensories. The name doesn’t immediately click, and I stand there, trying to piece together what Liam has planned.
My phone vibrates again with another message from Liam.
BB: Come in, the reception desk has the details.
I enter the building somewhat hesitantly, half expecting Liam to pop out at any moment.
“Miss Caldwell, I presume?” The middle-aged woman behind the desk greets me with a warm smile.
“I… Well… Yes,” I manage to stammer out, my usual eloquence failing me.
Her smile broadens, and I feel a bit of my apprehension melt away. “Marvelous,” she says, sliding a key card across the counter. “Your young man is waiting for you in room 218. Second floor, last door on the left.”
“I—” I start to ask what exactly this room contains but decide against it. “Thank you.”
By the time I reach the door of room 218, my heart pounds with excitement and nerves. Taking a deep breath, I open the door to find Liam standing in the middle of what appears to be a dance studio.
“Okay?” I step in, looking around in confusion. This was definitely not what I was expecting.
Liam’s smile is reassuring as he closes the distance between us. “You said if I was a good boy, you’d dance for me.”