Chapter 4I Let My Bully Steal My Billionaire Black Card
About 2,135 characters (~363 words) — this is Chapter 4, the last of the 4 free chapters on EditWrx Reads.
Elena took the card, her face a mask of professional neutrality. She began typing on her computer.
"Alright," Elena said, her voice projecting across the lobby. "We have thirty-one guests for the 'Ultra-VIP' overnight package at $1,200 per person. That includes the spa treatments and the buffet. That’s $37,200. Plus the $15,000 buyout fee for the resort closure. And then, we have the additional charges for the premium bar..."
"Wait," Brooke interrupted, her brow furrowing. "The alcohol was supposed to be included."
"On-site consumption of house wine and well drinks is included, yes," Elena explained patiently. "However, your guests requested thirty-four bottles of vintage Cristal and several bottles of aged Macallan from our private cellar to take back to their rooms. As those were removed from the bar, they are charged at retail value. That adds another $28,000 to your total."
The lobby went dead silent. Several students shifted uncomfortably, clutching their backpacks a little tighter. It was obvious they had stuffed their bags with expensive liquor, thinking it was free for the taking.
Brooke looked like she’d been slapped. "I... I didn't know they took bottles."
"Well, we did!" one guy shouted from the back. "You said it was an open bar, Brooke! We wanted to keep the party going."
Brooke tried to swallow, but her throat looked dry. She looked at the expectant faces of the classmates she’d been trying to impress. She couldn't back down now.
"Whatever," she stammered. "It's fine. Just... just scan the card."
"The card has already been processed for the discount, Miss," Elena said. "Your total, after the 10% elite member discount, comes to $72,180."
Brooke nodded quickly, reaching out to take the card back. "Great. We're good then."
She turned to leave, but Elena didn't let go of the card.
"I'm sorry, Miss, but you still need to pay."
Brooke froze. "What are you talking about? I gave you the card."
"This is a Membership Status Card," Elena said, her voice loud enough for everyone to hear. "It provides a discount and grants access to certain areas, but it is not a payment method. It doesn't hold a cash balance."