Chapter 322
Chapter 322:
“Sir, are you looking for a room?” The receptionist, a young woman, greeted him with a bright smile. Her eyes widened in surprise; her heart skipped a beat.
She wasn’t used to men like him. Most visitors were rugged farmers or city folks who barely stayed long enough to make an impression. But Kenneth, with his sharp features and tailored jacket, looked like he’d stepped out of a magazine.
“Actually, I’m looking for my friend,” Kenneth said, maintaining his polite smile.
That dazzling smile of his just swept her off her feet. “Your friend? If you give me a name, I can check the guest log.”
“We’re online friends, actually. We planned to meet here, but she got here before me. My phone died on the way, so I’ve been asking around. Someone mentioned she might be staying here.”
The receptionist tilted her head slightly, processing his words.
“She’s a young woman—long hair, really pretty. I think she was wearing a dress,” he added.
“I think I know who you’re talking about. A group of three—two men and a woman—checked in a few days ago.” She paused, her brows furrowing in thought. “But are you sure you’re friends with the woman?”
Kenneth let out a sigh. “If it’s a hassle, don’t worry about it. I’ll find a place to charge my phone and wait for her to call me back.”
“No, no! It’s no trouble at all,” the receptionist blurted, almost tripping over her words. There was no way she could deny someone so polite and charming. “They’re in Room 303.”
“Thank you.” Kenneth flashed her a grateful smile before turning to the stairs and taking them two at a time.
As he disappeared up the stairs, the receptionist leaned back slightly to catch her breath. “He’s the most handsome guy I’ve ever seen.” But the dreamy look in her eyes quickly faded as doubt began to creep in.
The three guests in Room 303 had barely left their room. Only one of the men came down now and then to grab food.
What if that pretty girl was a scammer? What if this ridiculously good-looking man was walking into a trap?
She shivered, remembering news reports of honey traps and dangerous setups—schemes targeting men just like him.
Kenneth stood outside Room 303.
He took a deep breath, willing his nerves to settle, but the dread clawing at his mind refused to let go. What if something had already happened to Janice?
“No, Janice isn’t just anyone. She’s stronger than that.”
Kenneth raised his hand and knocked lightly on the door, the sound echoing down the dim motel hallway.
“Who’s there?” answered a man from within.
Kenneth’s heart skipped a beat. His mind raced, but his voice stayed steady. “Motel staff here. It’s check-out time for this room. Would you like to extend your stay?”
“Check-out time? I booked this room for three nights. What’re you talking about?”
“Is that so? Would you mind opening the door so we can confirm it together?”
Kenneth’s pulse pounded so loudly he thought it might give him away. He wasn’t afraid of any danger he might encounter, but he feared the man might realize something was wrong and harm Janice.
Finally, the doorknob twisted.
The moment the door cracked open, Kenneth’s instincts took over. His eyes narrowed, and he moved in a blur. With a swift, powerful kick, his foot slammed into the door, sending it flying open with a deafening bang.
“Janice!” Kenneth’s voice echoed in the room as he stormed inside.
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