Chapter 34: Rest Easy
The night in California bustled like any other night, the various sounds of night life punctuated by the occasional hum of distant traffic and the warm glow of streetlights reflecting off the asphalt. The sleek black car cut through the streets, heading down Santa Monica Boulevard toward the Peninsula Beverly Hills, its shadow rippling over the buildings as it passed. Inside, in the backseat, a woman sat silently, her face partially illuminated by the city lights streaming through the window. The light curved around her face, subtly dividing it with a blend of shadows and soft illumination. Her left eye, the gentle waves of her black hair falling to her shoulders, and her forehead were touched by the glow, while her right eye, nose, and mouth remained shrouded in darkness.
The silence in the car was thick until a sharp chime pierced through it. Elmira looked down at her hands, placed on her crossed legs, and glanced at the screen. A call was coming through. She slid her finger across the glass and brought the phone to her ear.
"Where are you? My attendant is waiting for you in the lobby," came a gruff voice from the other end.
"I’m almost there," she replied softly, her tone composed, almost leisurely.
"Alright. I will see you soon." The line went silent.
Elmira lowered the phone, slipping it back into her bag as the streets of Beverly Hills unfurled before her.
Ten minutes later, the car pulled up to The Peninsula. The driver exited, making his way to her door, opening it with a respectful nod. Elmira stepped out, sliding dark glasses over her eyes as her pointed heels touched the pavement. She made her way into the hotel lobby, her heels echoing against the polished marble floor. Before she could approach the reception, a man in a tailored suit approached, his eyes sharp and assessing.
"Elmira Kingston?" he inquired, his gaze meeting hers as she lowered her sunglasses.
"Who’s asking?" she replied coolly, her brow arched.
The man offered a professional smile and a bow. "My boss has been waiting for you. He’s in the Royal Patio Suite. Please follow me." He gestured, inviting her to walk alongside him.
Elmira studied him for a moment before nodding, falling into step behind him. They wound through the opulent halls until they reached the terrace, where the first sight that greeted her was the sprawling hotel gardens and the distant glow of the Century City skyline. A breeze swept through, carrying a hint of jasmine and the coolness of evening air.