Five Star Temptation

“Yes,” she whispered while waiting for the private elevator car.

Franklin walked out of the unit that belonged to Ari. “Good afternoon, Ms. Alexander.”

“I’m never going to get you to just call me Sage, am I?”

He smiled. “It is a title of honor. You should wear it proudly.”

“But you’re family, Franklin,” she countered, “not just another employee.”

Touched by her words, he gave a slight nod. “You are too kind, Ms….Sage.”

“I mean every word, Franklin. You and your daughter are now a part of our family. We love you both.”

The elevator arrived, and they both stepped inside.

“Franklin, are we still donating food to the homeless shelters?” Sage inquired.

“I believe so, but I can check to make sure.”

“No, I’ll do it,” she said. “I know that we are in need of a new manager for the restaurant, so I don’t want the donation falling through the cracks.”

Sage paused briefly to continue her conversation with Franklin and then made her way to the lobby area.

She was surprised to see her parents. “Hey, what are y’all doing here?” Sage inquired.

Barbara embraced her daughter. “We’re meeting Natasha and Ari here for lunch to discuss plans for the wedding. You should join us.”

“Ari isn’t going to be here any time soon. I’m not sure he even remembered that he was having lunch with you all,” Sage interjected. “I can’t wait that long because I’m starved.”

“He didn’t until I called, so we’re not waiting on your brother,” her father said. “I didn’t eat breakfast.”

Sage followed them to the hotel restaurant where they were seated immediately. She sat down beside her mother. “I have something to tell you both.”

“What is it, sweetie?” Malcolm asked.

“I have a contract on my desk for unit 802.”

Barbara grinned. “Congratulations, dear.”

Malcolm nodded in approval. “Can’t say I’m surprised.”

A man seated at the table across from them opened a newspaper.

“I certainly hope he’s not reading anything that R. G. McCall has to say,” she said in a low voice.

“Sage, are you still bothered by that article you read in that magazine?” Barbara asked.

“What article?” Malcolm inquired.

“It’s nothing really, Daddy,” Sage responded. “Some guy with a chip on his shoulder wrote that a woman turning thirty is so desperate to have a man in her life that she will marry the first one to look her way.”

Her father laughed.

Wearing a frown, Sage inquired, “What’s so funny?”

“Well, you have been bemoaning your state of singleness lately.”

“I wouldn’t say that I was desperate,” she replied curtly. “Besides, there’s nothing wrong with me wanting to get married and raise a family.”

“This is true,” Malcolm stated. “Your mother and I want that for you, as well. Perhaps we should post some type of bonus or something.”

Sage’s mouth dropped open in surprise. “If a man has to be paid to marry me then I don’t want him.”

Barbara laughed. “Stop teasing your daughter.”

Sage folded her arms across her chest. “That’s really not funny, Daddy.”

Malcolm reached over and took Sage’s hand, giving it a loving squeeze. “I’m sorry, sweetie. I didn’t mean to upset you.”

“I know you didn’t, but you’re right,” she admitted. “My singleness is beginning to bother me. I can’t deny that I want a husband and a family, but I’m not desperate or anything. I’m just ready for marriage. I’m tired of dating and the relationship goes nowhere.”

“I have a feeling that you are going to meet the man of your dreams soon,” Barbara told her.

Sage smiled. “Mama, you were always a romantic.”

She picked up her menu, scanning the entrées. “I’m in the mood for seafood today.”

“So am I,” Malcolm responded. “I think I’m going to have the grilled tilapia.”

“That sounds delicious,” Sage murmured. “Mama, what are you ordering?”

“I think I’ll have the grilled chicken and ravioli.”

“I’m going to order the tilapia,” Sage decided aloud. She glanced toward the restaurant entrance and said, “It’s about time those two showed up.”

Ari and Natasha made their way over to the table and sat down.

“Hey,” Ari greeted. “Sorry we’re late. Natasha’s meeting ran longer than we expected.”

Natasha nodded in agreement. “It’s my fault.”

“We haven’t ordered yet,” Malcolm stated, “so you’re just in time.”

The waiter arrived a few minutes later to take their orders.

“So where are you two with the wedding plans?” Barbara inquired after he walked away from their table. “Have you narrowed down where you want to have the wedding ceremony?”

Natasha smiled and nodded. “We’d like to have the wedding at the house. Ari and I feel this is the perfect place to begin our life together as husband and wife.”

Barbara gave a slight nod of approval. “I think it’s a wonderful idea.”

Sage agreed. She was absolutely thrilled for Ari, but there was a part of this that highlighted the fact that there was no man present in her life. It wasn’t the lack of male companionship literally, because she was constantly approached by celebrities, business professionals, athletes and even a couple of college students.

However, Sage was very selective and cautious when it came to relationships because of a bad experience she went through in college—something that still haunted her from time to time. She was determined that no other man would ever deceive her again.

* * *

Sage thought about the homeless man from the day before. She had not been able to forget about him. It was the expression that was on his face—the one that said although his circumstances looked as if he was past hope, he was still optimistic about life.

Impulsively, Sage headed toward the lobby exit. She walked outside, her eyes surveying the surroundings. A way of relief swept through Sage upon seeing him.

What am I doing?

She didn’t wait for the answer. Instead, Sage inhaled deeply and then exhaled slowly before approaching him.

“I thought you might be out here,” she said. “My name is Sage. What’s yours?”

“Ryan,” he responded. “Ryan Manning.”

“I hope that you were able to enjoy a hot meal and a clean bed. I know that the shelters are overflowing, and they can’t accommodate everyone.”

“Yes. Thank you for the money. I can’t tell you how much it helped.”

She smiled. “I’m glad I could help you in some small way.” Sage paused a moment before continuing. “Actually, I would like to try and really help you, Ryan. I can’t explain it, but my gut instinct tells me it’s something I should do.”

Ryan’s eyes widened in surprise, but he remained silent.

Sage was well aware of the curious glances and stares she was receiving from people all around them, including the hotel employees, but she didn’t care. She had to do what was in her heart.

“I hope I won’t offend or embarrass you by this question, but when was the last time you had a bath and some clean clothes?”

He gave a slight shrug. “It’s been a few days.”

“Well, we’re going to change that right now,” Sage stated. “I want you to come with me.”

She couldn’t remember the last time she had acted so impulsively, but it was too late to turn back now. Sage had always trusted her instincts; this time would be no different.

Chapter 5

Hotel security hurried toward them, but Sage quickly waved them away. “He is with me,” she told them. “There’s nothing to worry about. I’m fine.”

Ryan silently noted that the two men backed off immediately, although their body language signaled that they were still on alert and ready to pounce, if needed.

He was still in shock that Sage had not only given him money but was now leading him into the Alexander-DePaul Beverly Hills Hotel.

Patrons gasped and stared in horror as they made their way through the lobby. However, Sage Alexander appeared to be oblivious to the stir she was causing. She walked over to the front desk. She was speaking so softly that Ryan had no idea what she was saying to the reservation manager.

He dropped his head to keep from meeting the gazes of anyone.

“I’m going to take you to a room on the second level,” Sage told him. “You can shower and shave, and I’ll have Franklin bring you some clean clothes.”

“Franklin?”

“He’s the head of our security and someone I trust with my life.”

“I appreciate all you’re trying to do for me, but Ms….you don’t know a thing about me. For all you know, I could be a serial killer.”

“That’s why I want Franklin to meet you,” Sage responded. “He’ll let me know if there is anything I need to worry about where you’re concerned.”

Ryan chuckled. “Do I need to worry about a cavity search?”

Laughing, Sage shook her head no.

“Ms.—”

“It’s Alexander, but please…just call me Sage,” she interjected quickly.

“Okay, Sage…why are you doing all this for me? Are you some type of Good Samaritan?”

“I wouldn’t say that,” she responded with a smile. “I just care about people, that’s all.”

A young woman with blond hair and wearing a trendy-looking business suit greeted Sage but took one look at Ryan and then glanced away.

“I apologize for her rudeness,” Sage stated as they walked to the elevators.

“People are uncomfortable when staring poverty in the face,” Ryan responded. “They know that it exists, but they do not want to put a face to it.”

Ryan had been a guest at the hotel in the past. In fact, it was one of his favorite places to stay when in Los Angeles. He was acutely aware that everyone was staring at him—some with open disdain. He cleared his throat softly.

“Really, why are you doing all this?” he asked when they were alone in the elevator.

Ryan reminded himself that he had to tread carefully with Sage and not ask too many questions. He didn’t want to make her suspicious.

“You obviously need help, and I am in a position to help you,” Sage responded truthfully. “I would want someone to lend a helping hand if I needed one.”

“So you just go around picking up homeless people?”

“No, I don’t,” Sage stated. “I’m good at reading people and…well, when I saw you yesterday I felt in my gut that I had to do something to help you.”

“I don’t mean to sound ungrateful,” he told her.

“It’s okay,” Sage responded. “You don’t know me either, so I can understand why you would be apprehensive.” She awarded him a bright smile. “All I can say is that it was placed on my heart to bless you.”

Ryan followed her off the elevator. Sage had a little bounce to her walk; her hips swayed gently from side to side. She was dressed in a pair of navy slacks and a bright orange and navy silk top. Her long hair was neatly secured in a ponytail by an orange-and-navy barrette.

She was a woman with a mission, and Ryan could tell from her demeanor that she would let no one thwart that determination.

Ryan considered all of the women he had come across throughout his life and could truly say that he had never met a woman like her. His ex-wife was also a very determined woman, only she had no problem using lies or manipulation to get whatever she wanted. It never occurred to her that perhaps being honest was the way to go, especially if one wanted to earn trust.

* * *

Inside of the luxury hotel suite, Sage handed Ryan a menu. “Feel free to order whatever you want to eat. It’s my treat.”

He hadn’t been aware that he was staring at her until she said, “What is it? Why are you looking at me like that?”

Ryan cleared his throat. “I’m sorry. I…I just can’t get over how generous you are. I’ve never met anyone like you.”

“I’m just me,” Sage responded with a shrug. “There’s nothing special about a person who cares about others. I’m one of many.”

“I don’t agree,” he responded. “To some degree, that quality makes you rare. People say they care, but I believe that actions speak a lot louder than words.”

“I knew there was something very different about you,” Sage murmured.

“What do you mean?” Ryan asked, instantly on guard.

“Just that I’ve been around many of the homeless. I volunteer at one of the shelters twice a month. I know that you’re educated. There’s actually many layers to you.”

“Not all homeless people have some sort of impairment,” Ryan blurted. “People end up without a roof for many reasons—mortgage and rent arrears, the breakdown of relationships, families or friends withdrawing their support. However, it seems that most people assume that only those suffering from personality difficulties, the onset of mental illness or addiction live on the streets.”

“I think I’ve been guilty of that assumption,” she confessed. “Even at the shelter, I have never come into contact with anyone who speaks as eloquently as you. Most are dealing with addiction or a mental illness. I guess I just never really considered that included in the transient population could be people who have lost their homes or jobs.”

Ryan decided not to say more for fear that he would give away the ruse. He had probably already said too much. Sage didn’t appear to be suspicious of him. Perhaps she just assumed that he was speaking in defense of his current situation.

Their gaze met and held.

Sage broke the visual exchange by saying, “I’ll have Franklin get your clothing size.” She checked her watch and then said, “I’m afraid I have a meeting to attend, but I’ll check on you afterward.”

“Thank you for your kindness,” Ryan murmured sincerely. “I don’t know many people who would go this far for a stranger.”

“We shouldn’t have to wait for something terrible to happen before we reach out to help others,” Sage stated. “My dad used to say this all the time.”

“Sounds like your father is a wise man.” Malcolm Alexander apparently shared some of the same philosophies as his biological father.

“He is,” Sage confirmed. “He also used to say that a true act of kindness happens when there is no reason to be kind but simply out of caring for our fellow man.”

Ryan gave a tiny smile. “I like that.”

Sage walked toward the door. “I have to go, but I hope you’ll enjoy your bath and meal. Franklin will stop by and arrange for some clean clothes for you.”

She was gone before Ryan could utter a response.

* * *

“Franklin, I wanted to let you know that I placed a guest in unit 210,” Sage announced. She called him from her cell phone as soon as she left Ryan.

“Is this a friend of yours?” he politely inquired.

“Not really,” Sage answered honestly. “He is someone who has been living on the streets as a transient. He’s an educated man, and I’m pretty sure something must have happened in his life for him to be homeless. In a way, he reminds me a lot of you, Franklin.”

“I see.”

“This is not something that I’ve done before, but there is something about this man. Franklin, I felt as if I had to do something to help him.”

“I understand completely,” Franklin responded.

“Do you really?”

“Yes. As you know, I was homeless when Mr. Robert and I met,” Franklin reminded her. “Like you, he had a kind heart, and not only did he give me a job but also a place to stay. You and your grandfather are kindred spirits.”

“I do feel this connection with Robert,” Sage admitted. “I’ve never said this before because I don’t want my family to think I’m losing it.”

“There’s nothing insane about it,” Franklin assured her. “His blood runs in your veins as well as your father’s. It’s natural that you would possess some of his traits.”

“We’ve been so blessed, Franklin, with all of this. However, even before the inheritance came about, I’ve never known what it feels like to be hungry or homeless. I volunteer at the homeless shelters and donate, but this time it just didn’t seem enough. Once I looked into this guy’s eyes, I just had to do something more.”

Franklin had served as a butler to Robert DePaul until his death. Her father had no use for butlers, so he promoted Franklin as head of the security and housekeeping staff. He traveled frequently, making sure everything ran smoothly with all of the hotel properties. He often accompanied Malcolm and Ari when they travelled, rarely entrusting them to the care of any other member of the security team.

“If you would see that he has some clean clothes, you can put them on my personal account. I mainly wanted to alert you in the event someone said something about his being here. Please make sure the security team understands that I do not want him harassed in any way. I want Ryan’s stay to be a comfortable one.”

“Understood. How long will he be staying here?”

“I’m not sure,” Sage answered. “I’m hoping we will be able to provide a job for him, as well. But anyway, thanks so much, Franklin. I appreciate all that you do for us.”

“It is my pleasure,” Franklin responded. “I will head to the second level to introduce myself to your guest. I want him to know that he can contact me if he needs anything.”

Sage smiled. “His name is Ryan Manning. Thanks.”

Beneath all the grime, Sage could see glimpses of an extremely handsome man. He had not been on the streets long, she decided. He was muscled and strong. Ryan hadn’t missed too many meals—that much she was pretty sure of, although she really didn’t know much about him.

Sage made it to the conference room minutes before her staff arrived. She wanted to go over the departmental vacation calendar as there had been some recent changes; two of her employees had been promoted to other departments.

“Good afternoon, everyone,” she greeted, closing the door so they would not be disturbed or disturb others. Blaze was in the room next door, meeting with his direct reports.

“We need to review the vacation calendar to ensure that we are going to have coverage,” she began.

Her meeting lasted for about thirty minutes.

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