Welcome

Why don't you try calling the number again to verify who it was," Maxwell suggested, his eyes flicking toward Hailey. "I bet the dialer made a mistake."

"Maybe," Hailey replied, though her tone was less certain, more an attempt to convince both herself and Maxwell. "Perhaps if it wasn't an error, the caller will try again."

"More likely," Maxwell said. Silence fell over the car as they continued down the winding road, the rhythmic hum of the tires was the only sound breaking the stillness.

After what felt like hours of driving through a seemingly endless stretch of countryside, Hailey suddenly perked up. "Finally!" she exclaimed as they passed a wooden postboard with "Vella" written boldly across it in weathered, elegant letters. "I thought we'd never get here."

Maxwell glanced over, clearly amused. "Don't look at me like that. Four hours on the road isn't easy."

He shook his head, a slight smile tugging at the corners of his lips as they approached their destination. The car slowed to a stop, and they both stepped out, taking in the sight before them.

The estate was breathtaking. Lush, green grass stretched across the wide stone pavement, its blades glistening under the unusually vivid blue sky. The air was crisp, carrying a faint hint of blossoms on the breeze. To one side, towering trees lined the perimeter, their branches heavy with pink flowers, which swayed lazily in the gentle wind. It was as if they had entered another world, one far removed from the stress and noise of their long drive. The distant chirping of birds filled the air .

Maxwell and Hailey exchanged a glance, a shared sense of excitement growing between them as they took in the beauty surrounding them. This place felt like a hidden paradise, untouched and inviting.

Maxwell glanced to his extreme right and spotted the Vella Mose Hotel. His eyes lit up. "That's the hotel!" he exclaimed.

About five feet away stood the towering building, a giant structure that seemed to blend seamlessly with the town's picturesque charm. Its stone facade gleamed under the afternoon sun, with ivy creeping up its sides, giving it an air of old-world elegance. The windows were large, reflecting the rich blue sky and swaying trees, while balconies lined with potted plants added a touch of vibrancy. The hotel exuded the same understated beauty as the town itself—polished, serene, and welcoming.

They settled back into the car, and Maxwell steered toward the hotel's parking garage. As they pulled in, a young man, likely in his early thirties, approached. His smile was wide and polite, but it didn't quite reach his eyes, which remained cool and distant. He wore a neatly pressed blue shirt tucked into black trousers, his attire crisp and clean, suggesting a uniform.

"Welcome. Please, park here," he said, gesturing to an open spot as he assisted with their luggage. His movements were precise and professional, though his demeanor was slightly mechanical. Soon, two more staff members appeared—a woman and a man, both in their forties—each moving with the same rehearsed efficiency. The man wore an identical uniform to the first, while the woman was dressed in a tailored dress that fell just below her knees, her outfit accented by a striking red scarf wrapped elegantly around her neck.

"Welcome to Vella Mose Hotel," they both chimed in unison, their voices smooth and polished, accompanied by perfectly practiced smiles.

"Thank you!" Hailey and Maxwell replied in unison, their excitement mounting as they followed the staff to the reception.

The lobby was a marvel in itself. Soft lighting bathed the room, casting a warm glow over the rich wooden floors and plush velvet chairs. A grand chandelier hung from the ceiling, sparkling like a cascade of diamonds, and the faint scent of lavender lingered in the air. It was both luxurious and inviting, a blend of sophistication and comfort.

Maxwell handled the check-in, producing the necessary documents, and soon they were handed a golden key card to their room. The staff moved swiftly, escorting them upstairs and assisting with their luggage.

"Enjoy your stay, sir and ma'am," the staff said with synchronized precision as they retreated toward the elevator.

"Wait!" Hailey called after them, catching them off guard. "May I know your names?"

"I'm Helen," the woman responded, her smile softening. "And he's Alex. Feel at home, ma'am."

"Thank you! I'm Hailey," she introduced herself, "and this is Maxwell, my boyfriend."

Maxwell gave a quick nod, pulling out his wallet to tip them, but they both declined politely with a slight bow. As the elevator doors closed, Hailey looked around the room, her heart filled with excitement and anticipation for what was to come. The hotel, the town, everything felt like the perfect start to their adventure.