She had no intention of returning to the Shaw family home any time soon.
But where was she going next? The neon lights flickered to life as evening fell.
The apartment she once called home had been relinquished back to the landlord, leaving her unexpectedly homeless.
She couldnt pinpoint the source of her unhappiness, only that it was there, gnawing at her.
She needed a moment to breathe and figure out her next move.
The driver glanced at Dulcie, who seemed downcast in the back seat, and inquired, Miss, where exactly are we headed? We need a destination.
When she had climbed into the taxi, she had said any destination would do. Surely he couldnt just drive her aimlessly around the city, could he? Though it might benefit him financially, he wasnt keen on making money in a way that might weigh on his conscience.
Dulcie snapped out of her reverie and managed to mask her feelings.
Take me to the nearest hotel, she requested, hoping for some solitude to ponder her next moves.
Miss, are you facing some kind of trouble? Why not open up a bit? Ive seen more of life than you have; perhaps I could offer some guidance, the driver suggested with a kind demeanor.
Dulcie offered a wry smile in response.
Thanks, but Im just overwhelmed by work.
Just drop me off at the hotel and then you can leave, she replied, preferring not to delve into personal matters with a stranger.
Respecting her wishes, the driver took her to a reputable hotel nearby and departed.
She approached the receptionist to check into the hotel, relieved to find she had remembered to bring her card holder with her that day.
After Dulcie handed over her ID, the receptionist examined it and said with an apologetic tone, Excuse me, miss, are you here by yourself? We only have a double bed room available tonight.
Would you like to book it? Stastle was bustling due to the upcoming examination, drawing crowds from all around.
Dulcie replied with a nod, Yes, that would be great.
Ill take the room, please.
As Dulcie made her way to the elevator, a thought struck her. She pivoted back to the receptionist and asked, Could I possibly use one of your laptops for an hour? The receptionists expression shifted to discomfort.
Miss, our laptops are linked directly to the hotels system, which means all your online activities will be monitored.
Are you sure youd still like to use one? After a moments consideration, Dulcie confirmed without a second thought, Yes, thats fine.
Thank you.
Alright, please head to your room.
Well have the laptop sent up to you shortly.
With a word of thanks, Dulcie boarded the elevator.