PIPER
I don't even hesitate; I drop the paper to the floor and run to the bedroom. The same jeans and shirt I wore on the airplane are crumpled next to the bed, but they're all I have. I throw them on, splash water on my face, and rush out of the hotel. I don't remember to grab a room key or my wallet until I'm in the stairwell, but the door is locked and it would be too late to go back, anyway.
I have to get to Ashley and Gram.
The bellboy from yesterday is in the lobby. I ask him to call me a car.
"You want that charged to your room?" he asks.
I want to kiss him for suggesting the idea, because my genius plan was just to get out a block ahead of my stop and run from the driver without paying. "That would be great. Thanks."
If he notices my ragged appearance and breathlessness, he doesn't say anything.
Timofey is paying him well enough not to notice anything, I'm sure.
