On the ride to the hotel, I took in the scenery and energy of Phoenix. It was my first time in the state capital of Arizona. I observed the hustle and bustle of the residents in the downtown area trying to get home ending their days and believed my heart marched along with their rapid paced feet. I was extremely nervous and beside myself in anticipation. It was just after 6PM and I was grateful that my hour and twenty minute or so flight had no delays. I didn’t have luggage and therefore had no need to wait to retrieve any at claims once I had landed. I was determined to get to Azmir and be in his all-consuming presence once again.
It tickled and impressed me how I wasn’t in my office for 20 minutes that morning before Brett called over to ask what time was I scheduled to see my last patient. He explained Mr. Jacobs requested that I’d be on the first plane after work. Upon consulting with Sharon I learned my last appointment was at 2PM this particular day because I was supposed to start my quarterly reports, something I opted to do during my travel to Azmir. By 2:45PM I was on my way to the airport all eager and antsy to see this man. I called Michelle to give her the details of my day all to have her nearly blow out my eardrum screaming into the phone with pure gusto. I don’t know who was more excited, me or my best friend.
Once let out of the car by the ever-professional driver who refused my tip, I entered into the hotel lobby to experience opulence beyond comparison. The lighting was strategic and illuminated the delicate details in every decorative piece. I knew right away this was a 5-star facility. Everything from the woodwork to the carpeting was of grand elegance. I made my way to the front desk, per the instructions of Brett, and asked for the room of Azmir Jacobs.
“Ms. Brimm, we’re so delighted to have you with us this evening!” A picturesque Caucasian woman with bright auburn hair and welcoming eyes moved over to a file compartment case, looked through a few cards and said, “Mr. Jacobs has not yet returned to his suite but asked that you take a key and go right up. His suite is located in the penthouse, the presidential suite.” A brunette with a pleasing smile directed me to the elevator.
On my ride up I was able to gather myself knowing that Azmir wouldn’t be there waiting for me. I wondered how long he’d be. When I pushed down the lever of the door to step inside, magnificence hit again when motion lights appeared at every step I took inside the suite. The place was quiet but the ambiance was breathtaking as the sun had started to set and illuminated the orange rays of the sky. The living room was huge, the furnishings very traditional and rich in taste. I didn’t want to travel too far in and risk being caught snooping so I stopped at the contemporary kitchen that hailed mahogany cabinetry and stainless steel appliances with a bar table that fit six. Who would entertain in a hotel? Is this extent of elegance even practical?
I found my way to the powder room to relieve myself and take the time that was luckily bestowed in his delay to freshen up my soft-handed make-up. I assessed my eyes for sleepiness and saw none. Well, of course! You’re too damn excited!
All of my anticipation concerned me. I had never put so much headwork into a man since my high school sweetheart. When I walked back into the living room, I noticed the bar in the far corner and went over to browse the selections. They were fine liquors that I couldn’t pronounce. All of this ambiance with no Mr. Jacobs. Hmmmmmm…where are you?
It was just then that I heard vague clacking from the opposite end of the room. I looked to find Azmir’s tall frame sauntering through the door, pulling the key card from the lock device and depositing it into his suit jacket pocket. His head was low and he was on the phone. My heart rate accelerated and my legs started quaking in my pumps.