)

Grayson made his way to the receptionist's desk, eager to get through tonight. If he was lucky enough, he could get at least 3 hours of sleep.

"Excuse me," Grayson politely requested, leaning against the reception desk. "I would like to order a room for tonight, please."

The woman behind the desk glanced up from her computer screen, her gaze meeting Grayson's, recognition flickered across her face. "I'm sorry, Mr. Hawthorne, but unfortunately all the rooms have been booked," she informed him, her tone tinged with regret. "Ever since Mason Valentine registered here, every room has been occupied."

A surge of frustration welled up within Grayson. Mason Valentine's presence seemed to cast a shadow over his own plans, complicating even the simplest of tasks.

"Is there any other hotel nearby with available rooms?" Grayson inquired, trying to keep his frustration in check.

The receptionist hesitated for a moment, her fingers swiftly typing on the keyboard. "I'm afraid most of the hotels in the vicinity are fully booked as well, Mr. Hawthorne. It seems Mason Valentine's arrival has caused quite a surge in demand."

There was no chance that Grayson would sleep with Alison, not in the same bed.

"In that case, can you arrange a spare bed or a couch in my room? I have someone who urgently needs a place to stay tonight," Grayson suggested, hoping for a glimmer of salvation.

"Yes Mr Hawthorne, I will make the necessary arrangements."

"Thank you," Grayson replied sincerely, a sense of gratitude in his voice.

Returning to his room, Grayson found the hotel staff already hard at work, setting up a bed near the window. Once the preparations were complete, Grayson turned his attention to Alison, who was still sound asleep, clutching a pillow to her chest. She was still sleeping, clutching a pillow to her chest. With gentle care, he grasped her fingers, carefully uncurling them from the pillow. Lifting her into his arms, he sensed her squirming, causing a shiver to run down his arm. Grayson settled her onto the newly arranged bed, taking a moment to tuck her in with a blanket.

He took a moment to absorb the tranquil atmosphere, filled with a sense of relief that he could at least get some sleep tonight.

Grayson allowed himself to sink into the comfort of his own bed, the weariness from the day finally catching up to him. The events of the evening had stirred up a whirlwind of emotions, leaving him with countless unanswered questions.

Glancing one last time at Alison, he closed his eyes, allowing sleep to claim him, a single question echoing in his mind.

"Who are you, Alison Emrys?"