She Begs For Mercy

The manager entered the figure into the system: $2.8 billion dollars.

"This guy's just here to chase clout," the receptionist whispered to her colleagues, who leaned closer, their eyes glimmering with curiosity.

Other millionaires and high-profile guests in the lobby exchanged glances, murmurs rippling through the grand hall like a rising tide. Even in a hotel known for its opulence, a payment of $2.8 billion was unheard of.

One man in an impeccable suit leaned toward his companion. "Is this some kind of joke? No one just walks in wearing hospital clothes and pays that kind of money."

Another guest, a business tycoon with a reputation for ruthlessness, scoffed, "He'll be laughed out of here any second."

The receptionist watched the scene unfold, fully expecting the transaction to fail. She crossed her arms, a smug smile curling on her lips.

The manager, however, remained composed, his finger hovering over the final confirmation button. "Sir," he said cautiously, "please confirm the payment."

Richard, unfazed by the attention, leaned in slightly. Scanned his fingerprint on the terminal. "Go ahead."

The room fell into silence as the manager pressed the button. A few tense seconds passed. Then, the terminal pinged, and the screen lit up:

Transaction Approved.

Gasps filled the room.

"What the…?" The receptionist's jaw dropped, her smug demeanor evaporating into shock.

The businessmen who had mocked him moments earlier were left stunned, their faces drained of color.

Mia's lips parted in surprise, but she quickly recovered, a slow smile spreading across her face. "Wow," she murmured, her eyes sparkling with intrigue.

Richard straightened, his calm, confident expression never wavering. He turned to the receptionist.

The receptionist bowed her head, shame coloring her cheeks a deep red. Too stunned to speak, she hesitated for a moment before quickly dropping to her knees, her hands trembling.

"I'm so sorry, sir," she pleaded, her voice trembling, tears welling in her eyes. "Please don't have me fired. I didn't know… I didn't realize…"

The entire lobby fell silent, all eyes now locked on the unfolding scene. Even the millionaires, who had been whispering and mocking moments before, watched with wide eyes, realizing the gravity of what had just occurred.

Richard's gaze remained calm, yet cold, as he stared down at her. For a moment, he said nothing, letting the weight of her actions settle over the room.

Mia stepped closer, intrigued but quiet, observing how Richard would handle the situation.

Finally, Richard spoke, his voice low and steady, filled with the authority of someone who could change lives in an instant.

"Get up," he said simply.

The receptionist hesitated, wiping her tears, unsure if she should stand.

"I said, get up," Richard repeated, softer this time, but still firm.

She scrambled to her feet, still trembling. "Please… I—"

Richard held up a hand, silencing her. "Consider this a lesson," he said, his tone sharp but controlled. "Never judge someone by appearances. You never know who you're talking to."

The receptionist nodded frantically, her tears still falling. "Thank you… Thank you for your mercy."

Richard turned to the manager. "Keep her. But make sure she learns from this."

The manager nodded, visibly relieved. "Of course, sir. Thank you for your kindness."

Without another glance at the receptionist, Richard turned to Mia, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Shall we?" he asked, gesturing toward the grand staircase leading to the elevators.

Mia smiled back, impressed. "Lead the way."

The manager led Richard and Mia to a private elevator reserved exclusively for VIP guests. As the doors slid open, the elevator walls shimmered with gold-plated panels and embedded gemstones, exuding opulence. Soft orchestral music played in the background, heightening the sense of luxury.

Richard stood silent, absorbing the grandeur as the elevator ascended smoothly. Mia stole glances at him, curiosity flickering in her eyes.

The elevator opened directly into the presidential suite, and Richard took his first steps into sheer extravagance.

The suite was massive, more like a palace than a hotel room. The floors gleamed with marble inlaid with intricate gold patterns, while towering windows stretched from floor to ceiling, offering a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

A grand chandelier made of crystal and diamonds hung from the ceiling, casting shimmering light across the room. The living area was spacious, furnished with plush leather couches and a massive glass table that could seat twelve—perfect for high-stake meetings. A private bar stood in one corner, stocked with the finest liquors from around the world.

The suite's personal swimming pool sparkled under soft ambient lighting, its edges lined with golden tiles. To the right was a spa room, complete with massage tables and a sauna. Every detail was meticulously crafted, radiating elegance and wealth.

AI security units, discreet but ever-watchful, were stationed at key points in the suite. Sleek and silent, they scanned the room, ensuring safety and privacy. Their metallic surfaces gleamed, and subtle blue lights pulsed along their frames, indicating active monitoring.

Richard marveled, his eyes sweeping over the grandeur. "Impressive," he murmured.

The manager, pleased with Richard's reaction, gestured to the luxurious surroundings. "Everything here is at your disposal, sir. If you need anything, simply ask the AI."

Mia, equally impressed, finally broke her silence. "You weren't joking when you said you wanted the best."

Richard turned to her, a calm smile playing on his lips. "I never joke about the best."

The manager bowed slightly. "Enjoy your stay, Mr. Bentley. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact me directly."

As the manager departed, Richard walked toward the expansive windows, taking in the view. He clenched his fist, his reflection merging with the glittering city lights.

"They all thought I was nothing," he muttered under his breath. "Now they'll see what nothing can become."

Mia's mind raced as she stood by the towering windows, stealing a glance at Richard, who seemed lost in thought. She couldn't help but wonder what his true intentions were. Men had tried before—offering lavish gifts, promises of luxury, and the allure of wealth—all for a chance to possess her. But Mia had always refused, keeping her dignity intact. She had built her career on talent and perseverance, not by selling herself to the highest bidder.

Yet here she was, standing in a suite worth billions, with a man who had just spent $300 million on her stay. No one would do that without expecting something in return… right?

Her gaze lingered on him, trying to decipher the mystery. Is he waiting for the right moment to make his move? she thought.

But Richard remained composed, his posture relaxed, yet commanding. He turned toward her, his face unreadable, but his eyes held no hint of lust or ulterior motives—just a calm, calculated focus.

"If you're wondering why I did this," he said, his voice low and measured, "it's not what you think."