39. MADEMOISELLE.

The Balkan was such an amazing hotel that Amelia wouldn't have been surprised to see a stay there offered as a prize on a TV game show. It was tucked away in a crescent-shaped cove with miniature villas spread out along the beach and a low-rise reception area almost lost in a miniature jungle of exotic shrubs and flowers. There was a doughnut-shaped swimming pool with a bar in the inner ring and stools poking up just above the level of the water. The whole place seemed to be asleep. This was certainly true of the few guests Amelia could see, lying motionless on sunbeds.

"Your suite is ready, Mademoiselle," the concierge spoke politely.

"I thought we were in Bulgaria," Amelia whispered in a very low voice to Hope who whispered back, "Yes, we are, Amelia."

"But why is he speaking French? It's not that we are in France," replied Amelia making a valid point.

"Maybe he likes French or maybe he is French," Hope said before walking in the capsule lift.

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