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Chapter Seven

Author: Chel-C
last update Last Updated: 2025-10-24 01:17:11

Chapter 7: The Stranger in 1408

Melanie's POV

The Rosewood Hotel loomed above me like a glass and steel fortress, its golden lights reflecting off the rain-slicked streets. I stood across the road, soaked to the bone, clutching the envelope of cash and burner phone like they were lifelines. Maybe they were.

A doorman in a pristine uniform opened the brass doors for a couple in evening wear. They swept inside without a glance at the drowned woman on the opposite sidewalk. I looked down at myself, designer blouse clinging to my skin, mascara-stained cheeks, hair plastered to my face. I looked like exactly what I was: a woman who'd lost everything.

But I was still standing. I crossed the street, each step deliberate. The doorman's eyes widened slightly as I approached, but years of professional training kept his expression neutral.

"Good evening, ma'am." He opened the door without hesitation.

The lobby was warm, opulent, all marble floors and crystal chandeliers. A pianist played somethi
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