Dirty Deals by Nicole James Page 0,1

on our way, I hand Carter his requested paper. “I’ve got you in our lavish Skye Penthouse with private pool, spa, sauna and steam room. I’ve arranged for a private butler and massage therapist for the duration of your stay. You’ll find a bottle of Cristal, two bottles of the rare wine from the Rothschild estate you love, and also the Louis XIII cognac you requested.”

“Wonderful, Ashlynn. You always take such good care of me, dear.”

I smile. “Well, this trip I’ve got a special surprise for you. I managed to get you ringside seats to the McGregor fight on Saturday.”

“I was planning to leave on Thursday.”

“Yes, Mr. Maxwell, I just hoped I’d be able to persuade you to extend your stay a few days.” It’s a ploy I couldn’t resist using this time. It’s not often a big event like this occurs just beyond the guest’s stay.

He runs a hand down his jaw, considering, but I know I’ve got him.

“We’ll see how the next few days go,” he says with an eye on Christine.

That’s my cue to keep her happy, so he can keep playing. I take the hint and turn to her.

“I’ve arranged one of our luxury private cabanas for you. It’s yours all week, should you choose to leave the penthouse and view the scenery at the pool.” I wink at her, and she smiles at my meaning.

Carter laughs. “Just as long as you don’t bring any of them back to the penthouse, my dear, have all the fun you desire.”

If that’s not giving your girl the green light, I don’t know what is.

I smile. I’ve got this in the bag.

Two hours later, I’m seating Carter at a table in one of our private high limit rooms. It’s opulent and accommodating with lavish foods catered in, as well as stand-by butlers ready to deliver the attending gamblers’ every need.

I pat Carter’s shoulder and wish him luck. He has my number and can call for anything that can’t be taken care of by the staff.

I’ve arranged for a handsome escort to accompany Christine to dinner and show her the town. He’s one I use regularly to keep the girlfriends occupied, and he does a damn fine job. I’ve never had any complaints. With that taken care of, my requirements should be complete for the evening.

I exit the high limit room and head toward the casino. There are a few other gamers I’ve been keeping my eyes on. One in particular is what we call new money. He’s developing quite the gambling addiction as his wealth grows each year. I’ve been giving him increasingly good perks with every visit. My bet is he’ll be one of my best whales in a year or two.

As my heels click across the marble floors of the exquisite lobby, I run into John, one of the managers of the hotel.

“Miss Fox, may I speak with you a moment?”

Damn it. I smile brightly. “Yes, sir? What can I do for you?”

“Is Mr. Maxwell all settled?”

“Yes, sir. His line of credit is four million and can be increased if necessary.”

“Excellent. I was wondering if you’d be able to fulfill a special request for one of our entertainers.”

The hotel often has elite performers, and there’s a special concierge to take care of them.

“Can’t Ken do it?”

“Not this time. He’s too busy with the prima dona currently in residence.”

Miss Serena Snow has a two-month run she’s in the middle of fulfilling.

“Okay, what do you need?”

“You know Axle Crow?”

“Of course.” Everyone in this town knows of Axle Crow. Half the country knows of him. He’s one of the biggest country acts since Garth.

“He’s staying at Peerless Tower, in the penthouse. He’s hosting a private poker party, and he’s requested a hostess. You know, just to make sure everyone is well taken care of.”

“But, sir, that’s off-site.”

“Yes, but he’s an important act, one we don’t want going over to another hotel for his future Vegas residencies.”

“I see. But tonight?”

“I’ll make sure Evan takes care of anything Mr. Maxwell might need.”

“Are you sure?”

“I’ve already made the arrangements. Ciara’s is doing the catering.”

Ciara’s is our exclusive five-star on-site restaurant.

“If you’re sure.”

“Go change into something suitable, and I’ll have Devon waiting in the limousine to drive you over.”

“Yes, sir.”

“You’re an excellent asset to our hotel, Ashlynn. I’m sure Mr. Crow will be most appreciative.”

That’s code for a big tip. I’m not so sure, though. I’ve seen celebrities leave exorbitant tips as well as crappy tips. With Axle Crow, I think the odds are