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Amy sat in a small waiting room along with other applicants. She needed this job, and when she read the ad, it stated the job also came with lodging. Since Amy had broken up with her boyfriend a few weeks before, she needed to find a place to live as he was the reason she had lost her previous job. But that happens when they both work at the same place, and your boyfriend starts sleeping with their boss. When Amy heard her name called, she looked up and followed the secretary to an office. She walked in, and the gentleman sitting behind the desk stood up, extending his hand and saying, "Amy, it is a pleasure to meet you. My name is Max Harland, and I am the business manager for the hiring partner."
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"Its a pleasure Max," I said shaking his hand.
"So Amy tell me a little about yourself," He said.
Smiling I said, "There is not much to tell I am afraid. Honestly the last two years is a bit of a sob story."
Looking up Max said, "Well in our company we want to know all about our employees so sob story and all if it does not bring up any trauma for you."
"No trauma thankfully," I chuckled. "I used to live in Florida where I helped run my families resale and refurbish store. Once day my ex walked in with his Aunt and we started a relationship which brought me here to North Carolina. We both found jobs at a company that buys and sells estates. But I recently lost my job at the company around the same time my relationship ended."
He nodded and asked, "May I ask why the relationship ended?"
"Because he decided that sleeping with the boss and her firing me was okay," I said. "I am lucky though. The same Aunt he came in shopping with offered me temporary use of her guest room but its a very uncomfortable situation so I am trying to move on."
"Why not move back to Florida?" He asked.
"That is a very easy reason," I chuckled. "My parents store and home were destroyed by Hurricane Ian. They have since bought a 1 bedroom condo in Colorado and moved. Honestly I flew home to help them but after the loss I am happy they got the insurance payout and were able to go somewhere that did not remind them of all they lost. Besides I am twenty five and I cannot run to Mom and Dad because I broke up with my boyfriend. They are happy I am independent and living my life."
"Well Amy," He started. "Let me tell you about the job you are trying for. Have you ever seen the Markenshore Hotel on fifth street?"
"I certainly have it is such a beautiful building. It breaks my heart its boarded up," I said. "Sorry I have a affinity for old buildings."
He nodded and continued, "Well the original owner's name was Phillip and he was a wonderful man. He owned many estates, properties, stores and storage units and the hotel. When he passed away all the estates, stores and storage units were sold and closed. All the belongings from the estates were brought in and placed in the hotel rooms. He owned 178 properties and estates. He owned over 1000 retail stores and all were sold and the merchandise brought to the hotel and again stored in the rooms. Then again with the 500 storage unit facilities we gave the people renting them 2 months to get their items but then again all remaining items were brought to the hotel and stored in the rooms. Are you following me so far?"
"Yes," I said. "If you do not mind me saying it sounds like a episode of hoarders."
Chuckling he said, "Believe me it is. The hotel contains 13 floors with six rooms per floor for the top 12 floors, a pent house, a basement which contains the laundry, kitchen, storage and a pool. The first floor contains 3 bedrooms, a dining hall, the front desk, reception and a store that connects to the outside world. This is a map of the hotel. Even the hallway is filled with boxes and furniture."
"Its an impressive building," I said. "What would my job entail?"
"The only rooms that are empty of any boxes is the room meant for you if you get the job. It contains a bed, dresser, mini fridge, microwave sitting area and table only. Along with the store and its storage area " He continued, "There are paths to all the elevators, stairs and the small stove in the kitchen incase you would want to cook for yourself."
"I do not see stairs on the blueprint of the building," I said.
"You won't because they are very narrow and off limits for guests," He said. "You may of course use them. Your job would be sorting and clearing out the hotel. The remaining rooms are all fully furnished but packed to the brim. As you have resale assistance you would be sorting, pricing and placing items into the store for a fair value. Everything down to the boxes and storage crates will be for sale even the furniture in all the furnishings from the old rooms. Including the linens and towels. On Friday and Saturdays from 9am to 2pm we will have the store open. You will be off on the second half of Friday and Saturday and all day Sunday."
"What is the catch?" I asked. "This job seems to good to be true."
"Besides your board you will receive a 2% bonus on all sales and $800 a week salary. We handle the taxes so your take home is $800 a week." He said, "The catch is Phillip had 12 Grandsons who want to stay in the hotel once rooms are available. They all work high power jobs in the city and want a place to live. The problem is they are impatient and want to move in asap. So we ask you clear one room per floor for their use. They know only they are allowed in the building and they cannot rush or bully you. They know all items are for sale and they cannot touch a thing. In the rooms you are cleaning out for them to start living in you are to leave the basic items like you have in your room. They have to provide all their necessities like you. The rooms will be given to the Grandson's from oldest to youngest."
"Am I being offered the job?" I asked.
He laughed and said, "Yes you are."
"Then I accept," I said. "When can I move in and get started?"
"I will take you there now and show you around," He said. "Do you have a car?"
"I do," I said. "Is there parking?"
"There is a parking garage across the street which I have a pass for you," He said handing me a pass and a packet of papers. "That's your new hire paperwork please fill that out this evening. That way after the tour you can move in and get settled. I am going to dismiss the remaining guests and join you there shortly, go ahead and use the side door to leave. I will meet you in front of the store door."
I put the paperwork in my bag and took the pass with me. Hanging the parking pass in my car I drove to the hotel. Pulling up to the parking garage I got out and walked across to the hotel. I was only waiting a few minutes when Max joined me. He handed me a set of keys and we went in.
"So Amy this is the store," He said. "The doors back there are storage and the register is all manual and does not accept credit and debit cards. We are cash only and that sign is posted on the door. We added the red baskets for shopping. I have one rule no items can be held for pick up. I will pick up the register log and the cash at 230 on store days and do the bank run. Your percentage will always be given to you the day of the sale. You can use the crates tables and boxes for displays. Hell use the old luggage carts for hanging cloths if you want. The store opens Friday so please get stuff in here. For the first week you can just start outside the doors and on Monday of next week you can start the rooms. There is a pricing gun and tags for items in this box. I ask please price all items as you go including your display furniture."
Max took me to the penthouse and showed me around. Then he took me floor to floor showing me how packed everything was. When we finished with the basement and pool area he showed me to my room. It was clean and the air conditioner was on. He said, "We ask you do not bring guests here for the privacy of the hotel. The bed is queen size and you will need to get your own sheets."
Nodding I asked, "Are you planning on reopening the hotel?"
"Yes we are," He said. "We understand that this is going to take time to go through but once you are able to get the boys rooms done we will have you start on the bottom floor and work your way up. If you have any problems my cell is listed in the packet for you. I will see you Friday at 215pm."
Closing and locking the door to my room I headed to where I was staying and grabbed all my belongings. I left a note and headed to the store to pick up everything I needed. After the store I went to the grocery and bought some food that I could make in the microwave. Finally getting everything in and unpacked I filled out my paperwork and put it under the register so I would not lose it. I saw a stack of empty crates and lids. I opened the drawer to the register and counted everything notating it in a notebook. I grabbed the basket of pricing items and opened the first crate next to the door and started to sort. It took me a moment to realize I had a bit of storage unit items. I grabbed my phone and called Max.
"Hey Amy," He said. "Everything alright?"
"Yeah everything is fine I just had a question," I said.
"Go for it," He said.
"One where is the dumpster?" I asked. "Second what happens if I need supplies? The last one is what if I find cash or change?
"Oh the dumpster is to the side of the store in the ally," He said. "If you need supplies go ahead and take from the register and leave the receipt in there. You found money?"
"Yes I did," I said. "I believe a lot of the first floor is from the storage units and I found a bunch of cash and change. I was going to add it to the till and notate it in the log book I had started."
"Okay do that then," He said. "I will swing by tomorrow and check in on you. Did you get moved in alright?"
"I sure did," I said. "Oh one last question what time is quitting time?"
"God child do not be a workaholic," He joked. "I would say stop work at 7pm at the latest. Your young have a life. See you tomorrow Amy. Oh wait Amy you still there?"
"I sure am," I said.
"Listen one of the old security staff Mike will be joining you in the building at night," Max said. "Its for yours, the stores and the hotels safety. On nights that he is not there it will be Carl. Both are great men who are a little past their prime but know the hotel like that back of their hands. I am sorry I did not remember until my wife threw a fit about you being there alone."
"Well Max thank your wife for her concern but let her know I am a MMA student and I cannot wait to meet the security team," I said.
We ended the call and I continued to sort and price and stack what was being held for later in the store room. Promptly at 5:55 there was a knock on the store door and a man in a security uniform stood there holding a box. I unlocked and opened the door saying, "Mike?"
"Hello Miss Amy," He said with a smile on his face. "Its so good to be back here."
"Well come in," I said. "I will be working for another hour and then going to get take out. Would you like anything?"
He held up his lunch bag and said, "Thank you but no. My Annie made me my favorite sandwich today. I will let you get back to work. I am just going to climb my way to the kitchen and get this coffee maker set up."
"There is a path to the elevator and to the stove," I said. "I made some counter space earlier incase I want to cook down there."
"Well this will not take up to much space," He said as he walked towards the kitchen.
Continuing to price and sort until my 7pm alarm went off I gathered my things for the day and headed to my room to wash up. I grabbed my purse and headed out to get some Chinese and Sushi take out and went back to the hotel. I loaded my YouTube account and watched videos while I ate. Felling a bit tired I plugged in my phone and took a shower. When I settled in bed I fell into a content sleep.
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The next morning I woke up and heated up some of my leftover from the night before. Getting ready for my day I went into the hotel and started back on my pile next to the stores door to the hotel. I was setting books I had found on a shelf when I heard knocking at the door. Looking up I saw Max standing there. Going to open the door Max rushed in and shut and locked the door. He took my arm leading me from the store and said, "Quick we have a problem."
"Max is everything alright?" I asked.
He set up some crates for us to sit on and he said, "For you yes. For me I have a migraine starting already."
"Max it cannot be that bad," I said. "Let me help you. What is going on?"
He closed his eyes and when he opened them he said, "You remind me of my little sister. Besides your impressive resume I hired you because you remind me of her. She passed away a few years ago."
Placing my hand on his arm I said, "That is the best compliment I ever received thank you Max. But that is not your problem so what is it."
"The Grandsons are a pain in the ass," He said. "Phillip left specific instructions for them and they want to circumvent his wishes."
Laughing I said, "They do not want to wait for their rooms to be cleared?"
"No," He said. "They cannot get in unless they are given a key and they are mad the help isn't moving fast enough."
"Really," I said. "Well Max I can help with that. Knowing my job takes time and work let me show the guys why it takes so long. Give me the names and ages of each of the guys. Also what they do."
Max handed me a paper with a smile. Looking over the list I said "lets get them in here. They want to see why its taking so long then I will put them to work a few hours each the next week and I will stop them from giving you a migraine."
1. Phillip Jr 30 Lawyer
2. Carson 29 Restaurant Owner
3. Ben 29 RN Nurse
4. Shane 29 Violinist
5. Mike 28 Researcher
6. Max 28 Personal Trainer
7. Charles 27 Physical Therapist
8. Mark 27 researcher
9. Sam 27 Teacher
10. Kyle 26 Biologist
11. Chris 25 Charter Boat Captain
12 Adam 24 Zoologist
Max chuckled and said, "Are you sure? They can be a handful."
"I sure am," I said. "Why don't you start calling them and I will continue on with stocking the books. Oh and tell them to wear something they can get dirty and dusty in."
Max shook his head and went over to the counter. I heard him call each of the Grandsons and tell them they need to come down and learn what I am doing so they will understand why it will take so long. He had a few of them argues back but Max did not bend or fold and I saw him adding times and dates to the list of names. When he was done he said, "I know I gave you off in the afternoons during sale days and Sundays. I will give you a bonus if you can work with them through the weekend."
"That sounds good Max," I said. "You never know I might scare the first few so the rest will back down."
He shook his head and said, "God willing. The first one will be Carson at 1pm. Remember no matter what they say they cannot fire you. You work for the estate."
Laughing I said, "Oh Max sweetie when you leave I am putting on my MMA training shirt to give them a scare. If you want to call me at 8pm tonight I will give you a run down."
He nodded and headed to the door saying, "Good luck with Carson."
I chuckled as he left. At noon I ran in and grabbed my leftover sushi and ate it as I continued to sort. I brought a few boxes to the storage area and grabbed the box to place on the displays when I heard a knock at the door. Going to the door I opened it and said, "Carson?"
He looked me up and down and said, "Amy?"
"Sure am please come in. I would leave anything you don't want covered in dust on the counter," I said.
"Now Max said you do not have a clue why it would take so long. I am here to educate you, but first let me ask you when was the last time you came to the hotel?"
"Before it closed," He said. Then in a snotty voice he said, "You think you can educate me. That is funny. You do realize I own a high end steak house and I am the reason it is a success?"
"Well I am here to make the hotel a success and I assure you we have more in common than you think," I said opening the door. "Welcome back to the Markenshore Carson."
Stepping out to the main room he looked at me and said ,"What the hell is all this?"
"This is the aftermath of your Grandfather passing," I said. "It is my job to get it sorted priced and sold. Some of these stacks in this room are fifteen feet high. If you do not believe me ask Mike from security he got bored and pulled a tape measure last night. This is on every floor, in every room and hallway. This week I am working down here to get the store stocked for its opening on Friday morning. Starting Monday I start Phillips room."
His face fell a little and then his mask came back. "Okay wise one show me what you do."
Pulling the next crate I said, "The box on the table is for storage. These are my supplies and the tablet is for comparable pricing. So lets see what we have. I have to price items at a good rate but not giving them away. So first task with each crate is to empty and sort as I go."
Opening the crate I found a bunch of baby clothes and items. I sorted each of them by brand. Then I sorted the brand by type and grabbed my tablet. Showing him the brand website I sorted the price low to high and grabbed the pricing gun putting prices on every item. Once each pile was priced I sorted what was being put out and what was being put in overstock. Putting the crate under the table when I was finished I took out my phone and said, "Look that 1 crate took 40 minutes. Its not a fast task as I am responsible to make sure things are priced fairly but make sure it is also not a yard sale. I also move the merch and crates once they are full to the stock room or to the sales floor. Now I know what you are thinking, well why not put everything out on the floor. Easy because everything in the store is for sale including the displays. Like you need to make sure your restaurant is stocked and maintained I have to do the same for here. Do you understand why this takes so long? I wake up at 6am, start working at 7am, and do not finish till 7pm. I normally will grab leftovers for lunch and eat while I am working."
"I understand," He said. "Does some of the items go faster than others?"
"Yes," I said. "However if there is many items in the boxes or items that do not have original price tags which I can use as a guide it does take a lot longer. Remember I just started yesterday and your grandfather had items from 178 properties and estates, 1243 retail stores, and 500 storage unit facilities. This lovely 5 foot section is what I got done yesterday. The pathways through the buildings are big enough I can get 1 hand cart to the elevator which will hold a few crates I can move back to the store when I finally get into the rooms. If you like I can show you around?"
"No," He said. "I get it. My cousins were all throwing fits and I called to ask Max what was going on. I appreciate what you are doing and I can't wait to live here and see your progress. But if you do not mind me asking, why did you tell me to wear something I didn't mind getting dirty."
Laughing I said, "I was going to put your ass to work at another table."
He laughed and said, "Well give me a box I want to see what I can do in 40 minutes. You really work for 12 hours?"
"Pretty much," I said. "But right now that works great for me."
As he started to sort he asked me, "May I ask you a personal question?"
As I sorted my own crate I said, "That depends."
"What about dating?" He said. "Are you a bit lonely?"
Stopping for a moment I said, "No. After what happened in my last relationship I chose not date for a while. Also I would rather not share what happened right now."
"Noted," He said. "If a item has a store price tag should I leave that in its own pile?"
"Yes please," I said.
When his forty minute timer went off he said, "Thank you Amy. This has been eye opening and I am sorry I asked. However, I cannot wait to be a neighbor and when your settled in more I would love to take you to my restaurant and get to know you better. You do not have to say yes or no, just think about it."
Smiling I said, "I take it your running away now?"
"Oh yeah I get why it takes you so long," He said. "Your not vegetarian are you?"
"Odd question," I said. "I like a good burger anytime. Also here is my number if you want an update on my progress closer to when I start your rooms."
Walking Carson to the door I let him out and looked at my watch. I had another 45 minutes until Max showed up. I finished my box and went over to the table Carson was working on and continued on with what he had sorted. When I brought the next box to storage and cleared my table, leaving Carson's to work on later, I took the box of items I was adding to the store and added them to the display shelves. As I placed a price tag on the crate and stacked it in the back corner for sale I heard a knock at the door.
Going to the door I opened it and said, "Welcome to the Markenshore Hotel Max."
He strode in and turned on me and said, "You best give me one damn good reason why I have to wait to move in."
"You want to do it this way huh," I said. "Okay when was the last time you were at the hotel?"
"I have not been here since I was five," He scoffed. "There should be plenty of room."
"Okay out that door then," I said pointing to the door to the hotel.
He walked out the door and said, "What in the fucking hell is this shit?"
"Did you listen when your Grandfather's business estate was mentioned when he passed?" I asked.
"No why would I. I was told that I could get a room here when it was ready and a cool million," He said.
"Really," I said. "Well lets burst your bubble. When your Grandfather passed he had 178 properties and estates, 1243 retail stores, and 500 storage unit facilities that were sold off and all the belongings were brought here. My job is to go through, price and sell everything here at a profit. I take my job seriously. But since you think you can do better we are going to do a test."
"Excuse me," He said. "Who the fuck do you think you are."
"The person who takes their job quite seriously," I said. "My resume speaks for itself. I make people millions and make sure things run smoothly. Since you want to swing your dick around and try to unimpressively intimidate me, you are going to do what I have to do over and over again. When I start the timer you are going to open the crate on the table. Then your going to sort it by brand. Once you sort by brand each of those piles will be sorted to type in each brand and if you find a item with a store price tag that goes in its own pile."
I pointed to Carson's table and said, "That was Carson's table minus a few things I priced and how far he made it in 40 minutes. He took the forty minute mark challenge as that's how long it took me to sort organize and price a full crate of 100 items. Go ahead and see how much you can do in forty minutes while I work on Carson's table."
He started when I told him to go and I continued on with finishing Carson's table. When I had priced and brought another crate to storage I put another crate on the table and started to sort and organize. When the timer went off I had sorted, organized and priced some items from the second crate. I walked over to Max's table and saw he had not even sorted all the items. I looked at him and he said, "There is no way that stuff was all sorted that you went through while I only got through this."
"I recorded myself if you want to see it," I said. "Do you understand why it will take me some time. Now as I explained to Carson and will explain to each of you. I am only working in the lobby till the store and storeroom are stocked for the opening on Friday. Once I have the stock room ready and going I will be starting with Phillips room which is on the twelfth floor. Since I have to go over this with each of you this week I am missing my MMA training this week and I assure you all I will be getting more and more irritable by my next class on Sunday. So do you understand why it takes so long or are you going to play tough jock and we can take it to a ring so I can knock some sense into you."
He looked down and said, "No I think I get an idea of the work you do."
"Good," I said. "Now let me tell you something I will not be putting up with bullying, harassment or anything else to get me to move faster. Is that clear?"
"Yes Amy," He said. "I understand."
"Good," I said.
"Can I ask you a question," He said.
"Yes you may," I said.
"Well its a few questions," He said. "One you do MMA what's your ranking? Two are you dating anyone? Three want a fuck buddy?"
Rolling my eyes I said, "In Florida before I moved here two years ago I was number three in the female divisions and number fifteen in the state. No and I do not want to explain why. Not currently that's why they make toys."
He laughed and said, "Damn girl I get it. Being burned sucks I have been there to. Well I would love to spar sometime so let me get your number. If you ever change your mind about wanting a buddy hit me up. I also promise I will not harass you I get you are doing a lot of work. But I am a asshole so I will let you handle my cousins."
I handed him my phone number and said, "Here ya go and sparring might be fun."
"Well I will let you get back to work and I hope I did not fuck up the way you do things on that table," He said. "I may swing by and see you work the store Friday or Saturday."
Walking him to the door I shook his hand and he walked down the road. Locking the door I looked at my watch and saw it was only four thirty. I left Max's table and continued on with work. At six I heard the door to the store open and heard Mike call out, "Hey Amy."
I called back, "Hey Mike."
He looked at the progress and said, "My dear you made some progress."
Laughing I told him "It would have been more. But now I have to show the Grandson's why it is going to take me a while to get through. But no worries I am making them get to work and making them do what I have to do in repetition."
He looked at me and said, "Well my Annie is coming to the grand opening on Friday and she is telling all her friends."
He went to start his rounds and I continued to work. When I was finishing up for the night and was coming out from the storage room I heard a knock at the door. I saw a delivery man and he was waving me over. Opening the door with the chain lock on and he said, "Amy?"
"Yes," I said. "But I didn't order anything."
"Carson sent this over for you Miss," He said. "I was ordered to have you take it and tell you my tip was taken care of already. There is a note in the bag and believe me miss there is a bunch of food there."
"Thank you," I said. Watching the delivery person leave I looked into the bag and there was a note in the bag.
Reading the note from Carson it said, "Amy, Thank you again for helping me understand what you are doing at the hotel. I appreciate you and I was serious when I said I would like to take you to dinner. Have a wonderful evening and enjoy the food. Carson"
I made sure the door was locked and took my bag to my room. When I started to empty the bag I found a bag of fresh rolls. Underneath that was a cobb salad. The first box had six sliders with fries and onion rings. Under that was grilled chicken tenders with mashed potatoes and brussel sprouts. Then a container of fresh fruit and one with a large piece of chocolate cake."
Grabbing my phone I sent a message to Carson and said, "Thank you so much for the food. You did not have to do this but I am quite thankful. I will be digging in after a shower. Tonight I am eating this amazing smelling food and watching some Netflix."
When I got out of the shower I had a reply that said, "TV night sounds so good. When I move in I will join you to chill and watch TV. I will bring the food. Enjoy and have a good night."
Moving stuff around in the fridge I made sure I could put everything away later I put the containers on the bed and grabbed my laptop and started to each as I watched a K Drama. When I felt I could not eat another bite I put my food away and went to bed. Laying in bed I thought about facing off with Phillip in the morning.
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Waking up a bit earlier then normal I made my coffee and got ready for the day. Looking at the list Phillip Jr was a lawyer and he could either be a stuffed shirt, jerk or a normal guy who wants his way. I went down to the store to do a walk around and check my displays. The store was filling up nicely, however after today I would have to put everything to back stock. Then I went into the stock room and checked the shelving to what was already placed in there. Making sure U had room for when I had to start adding stock in crates to the floor. Loading the computer at the desk I decided to put a sign on the door for the store hours. As I placed the sign on the door a man in a suit walked up and knocked on the door. I opened it so the chain still held and I asked, "Can I help you?"
"Are you Amy?" He asked. "I am supposed to meet you this morning. My name is Phillip."
"Your early," I said as I unlocked the door and let him in. "I hope you do not mind getting your suit dusty."
"Listen you need to move faster you are inconveniencing my life," He started.
I laughed as he stopped and looked at me, "Oh so sorry Phillip I am doing my job correctly and your being inconvenienced is a problem."
"Do you know who I am I can have your job," He said.
"No you can't," I said. "Max already said you may threaten that but you have no power here Phillip. Now unless you want your coat and suit jacket to get dirty I would suggest you put them on the counter and follow me. I would suggest you do not make me ask you twice."
I walked into the lobby and sat on a pile of crate sipping my coffee. When he came in he said, "What the hell is all of this?"
"Seriously did none of you guys listen at the reading of your Grandfathers will?" I asked "When your Grandfather passed he had 178 properties and estates, 1243 retail stores, and 500 storage unit facilities that were sold off and all the belongings were brought here. You think this is bad you have not seen the rooms basement or penthouse. When I started here 2 days ago, I had a path that led from the store to my room and to the elevators that was it. This is two days worth of sorting and pricing and explaining to you lot that this will take time."
"Well you could move faster," He stated.
"Okay lets see how fast you can do this," I said.
"Excuse me," He snorted.
"So far Carson got the furthest in 40 minutes," I said. "This pile here was left over from Max. So let's see how fast you can do this huh?"
"You have got to be joking," He said.
"I most certainly am not," I pointed around. "Pick a crate any crate. When I start the timer you are going to open the crate on the table. Then your going to sort it by brand. Once you sort by brand each of those piles will be sorted to type in each brand and if you find a item with a store price tag that goes in its own pile."
"It cannot be that hard," He said as he placed a crate on the table.
"Okay you have forty minutes and go," I said as he started.
I went over to Max table and went through what he had already sorted. Adding stuff to the priced items for storage and a basket of some items for the store. I finished what was sorted and then finished the crate Max had worked on. Looking at Phillips table I saw he had a bunch of items still in his crate and chuckled. I cleared my table and took a full crate back to storage. When I got back I found another crate that was full of books so I sat there repricing them and placing them into a another storage crate as the book shelves were full. Pricing the empty crate I added it to the store and added the full crate to the storage area. As I started another crate Phillip's timer went off and I joined him at his table.
"Well you did better than Max," I said. "But Carson still has you both beat."
"There was so many items in the crate." Phillip said.
"Yes there are," I said, "I found a crate with 400 collectors spoons the other day. Do you want to talk about 3 hours of my life I will never get back. But do you understand now why I cannot just hurry up."
"I am getting the idea," He said. "So I see your working down here now. When will you start my room?"
"Once I fill all the shelves in the stock room and the store," I said. "I will start the bedrooms. The store is almost stocked for the launch on Friday. Normally Fridays and Saturday afternoons I am off for the day after the store closes and I am off all day Sunday. But this week I will be working with all your cousins to have them understand why this is taking a while."
"Do you know the rules of the Hotel once we move in?" He asked.
"Of course," I said. "Yes you cannot bring someone home and you cannot touch any of the items."
"So no lady friends can visit me?" He asked.
"Nope no one is allowed in the building except the cousins once they get their personal key, security and myself," I said. "Also I am not your maid you are responsible to maintain and clean your suite. No cleaning services. Before your room is done I will make sure at least one washer and dryer is cleared for all of us to use. I am not sure how the rules will change once the hotel reopens. But for now if you want to fuck somebody its outside the hotel."
"Well this has been enlightening Amy," He said. "I will continue to pester you to get my stuff done faster."
"It will fall on deaf ears Phillip," I said handing him my card. "That is my phone number and harass me instead of Max I will tell you to go fuck yourself personally."
He took the card and said, "How much more to fill the stock room?"
"Half the shelves are full and once they are I will be heading to your room as the crates will be stacked on the floor." I said. "Your more then welcome to look."
He popped his head in and looked around the store. "I will check in with you on Sunday."
Opening the door to let him out I started laughing. Looking at my watch I saw it was almost 9am and I did not have to worry about anyone until Shane arrived at one. Leaving Phillips pile on the table I took a paper and wrote who did better and placed it in the lobby. Carson's name was on the top of the list followed by Phillip and Max. Laughing I thought. Well if they want to mess with me I will mess right back.
Taking out my phone I messaged Max and said, "I think I got Phillip Jr off your back for now. I told him to speak with me not you for progress updates."
Moving to the empty table I continued to work finding a few crates from the retail stores bought in. I repriced everything and added some to the store and to stock. At noon I grabbed some food from my leftovers and ate as I continued on. Thankfully finding even more retail store crates. I had filled almost 3/4's of the stock room by the time I heard the knock on the door again.
Opening it up i asked, "Shane?"
He smiled a shy smile and said, "Amy?"
Opening the door he said, "Listen I am sorry some of my cousins are asshats. I would like to move in ASAP but I saw Carson last night and he told me everything you do and I am not here to rush you. But I will like to see what you do."
"Well Shane I will be glad to show you," I said. "Excuse the mess and understand with the exception of my room, the store and stock room, it is completely packed up like this in the hotel. I have make shift hallways."
When we went out to the main room he whistled and said, "Damn I get it now with the time frame."
"Once the stock room shelves are full I will be starting the private rooms," I said going to the crate I was working on. "So this crate was from one of your retail stores your Grandfather owned. I am basically repricing to 75% of the sticker price. For items from the estates and storage units I sort it by brand. Once I sort by brand each of those piles will be sorted to type in each type and if I find a item with a store price tag that goes in its own pile."
"I understand now why it takes so long," He said. "How do you get prices?"
Laughing I said, "Google is my friend."
He laughed and said, "Well whatever works right?"
After watching me for an hour he looked around and said, "Amy I give you a lot of credit. This place is a dumpster fire and you are doing a great job. Don't let my cousins start with you. They are all good guys but can be a bit of a headache."
"Thank you Shane," I said. "I think besides Carson you are my favorite so far. Here is my phone number, please feel free to check in with me to ask about the progress."
Walking Shane out I priced more items to fill the stock room and the store. Shortly before Sam was to arrive I added the last piece of merchandise to the store for Friday's launch. Going back to the main room I continued to work. As I was bringing another crate to the stock room I heard knocking at the door. I opened it so the chain was holding and said, "Sam?"
He looked me up and down, replying, "Who else?"
Letting him in I pointed to the counter and said, "You may want to leave your things there so they do not get dirty."
"Well?" He said.
"Well what?" I asked. "Like I told Phillip I do not work for you I work for the company. You do not have the ability to fire me. As I am learning none of you actually listened at the funeral or reading of the will. Now your here trying to rush the job I am doing to get your way and it is not going to happen until it happens. So you were saying?"
"I think your organizational skills are not good if you cannot get the job done faster," He said.
"Oh I was waiting for you to say this," I said. "First have you been in this building at all since your Grandfather passed. Second lets see how good of a job you can do. Go ahead through that door Sam."
He opened the door and stopped in the doorway. He turned to me and said, "What is all of this shit?"
"You all really did not listen," I said. "When your Grandfather passed he had 178 properties and estates, 1243 retail stores, and 500 storage unit facilities that were sold off and all the belongings were brought here. This open spot is everything I have gotten through since Monday afternoon when I started. I am lucky I have a small walkway on each floor and to my room and to the stove in the kitchen. I am hoping next week I can clear a small path so we can do laundry."
He crossed his arms and said, "I do not believe you."
"Okay let's take a tour," I said. I brought him to each floor, including the basement and penthouse. When we got back to the main floor I said, "Do you see my problem? If you think you can do better lets go."
"Excuse me?" He said.
"Listen you might think your big and bad," I said. "But I run this ship. You want to say do it faster lets go."
"Sure," He said. "Its just slapping prices on things."
"No it isn't," I said. "When I start the timer you are going to open a crate on that table. Then your going to sort it by brand. Once you sort by brand each of those piles will be sorted to type in each brand and if you find a item with a store price tag that goes in its own pile. That pile and partially filled crate was from Phillip. Best progress so far was Carson in forty minutes. You may chose any of the crates by the reception desk."
He grabbed a crate and when he opened it there was silver everything. He looked at me and I said, "You could do it so much better right. Most silver pieces have a makers mark on the bottom which is the brand. If you do not see a brand mark put it in a pile for further research."
I walked over to Phillips table and continued with the piles he made. As I sorted and priced I heard Sam muttering to himself. I took the fully priced crate to the stock room and when I came back I continued on. When the timer went off he was not far into the crate. Looking at him I said, "Oh but its not hard right?"
"Its worthless junk," He spat.
"Really see those Angels there," I said picking it up. "These angels are worth $500- $1000 a piece as they are vintage collectables. Its my job to know this but junk for you is treasure for other's and its my job to make a profit here. I have years of experience as I was born into this. I work hard and make sure I do a amazing job. Now that you see what it takes you can still look down your nose at me but believe me I cannot do this any faster. But for what you did organize you did better than Phillip."
"Bringing an apple to the teacher," He laughed. "Listen I get it it takes a while. I would of rather had my Grandpa instead a place to live. During the reading of the will I was grieving. For me I would like to be asap because on a teacher salary its hard to afford rent most of the time. Especially when summer comes around."
"Well it's a good thing its only August 15th now," I said. "My goal is to have all your rooms done quickly but you need to remember that it is not going to be easy because once I get to the twelfth floor to start Phillips room that's it I will be working in a 2 foot section and I have two feet by the elevators to place a dolly to load crates. After I get all of you cousins sorted through Sunday I can start upstairs on Monday."
"Thank you Amy," He said. "Listen I was a dick when I came in and I am sorry. Lets start over shall we?"
"That would be great Sam," I said. "Here is my phone number and you can text me for updates."
I walked him to the door and let him out. My stomach started to growl and I realized that I did not hear anyone come in for security as it was going on seven. I was about to contact Max when I heard, "Hey Miss Amy you hiding in your room?"
Looking over the stack of boxes I was behind I said, "Hey Mike I am over here."
He walked up with his things in his hands saying, "Well girl Carl was supposed to start tonight but he called me saying he was sick."
"Its okay Mike," I said. "I was worried something happened. I just finished with Sam and I am just cleaning up so I have a table free and am going to head to my room eat some dinner and go to sleep."
"Well my girl if you need me just holler I go through the hotel every hour," He said. "When will you be starting upstairs?"
"I start the twelfth floor room a on Monday. Although I need to make a path to the smaller washer and dryer next week as well." I said. "I will keep you posted after that."
"Well Amy get yourself some food and rest," He said. "I need to get me a coffee and start my walk. I made sure the store door was locked."
The following morning I was up early and as I drank coffee and worked on a crate that was from a retail store I heard knocking at the door. Walking over I saw a man who looked like one of the homeless people who walk the streets. I opened the door and asked, "Chris?"
He gave a warm smile and said, "Sure am and you must be Amy the person who told Phillip to go fuck himself. You know your my new best friend."
As I unlocked the door laughing I said, "How do you know about that?"
"He told me when I saw him last night," Chris said. "My ship came in a bit early and I met the king dick at the bar and he called you a bitch and high and mighty."
"Well I did match his energy," I said. "Did he say why it would take so long?"
"He said Grandpa turned this place into a shit show," Chris said looking around the store. "The store looks fantastic though."
"Well brace yourself," I said leading him to the lobby.
When he walked in he looked shocked and turned to me asking, "Do you have to climb all over this to get to your room?"
Laughing I said, "No I have a pathway to the side elevators and a small hallway on each floor, the penthouse, basements and to the kitchens."
"Girl I give you credit," He said. "So Amy. I get while it will take a while and if I have to stay on my boat I am okay with that till my room is done. But what do you do?"
We walked over to the crate I was working on and I explained the process for the retail items and other crates and he nodded in understanding. After I explained he asked, "Does the quiet not drive you crazy."
I pointed to my second tablet and said, "I charge her every night and I listen to YouTube videos. If it dies I charge it and run them on my phone. I actually am almost done watching all videos on a few of the people I follow."
"You should do a channel," Chris said.
"Doing what Chris," I asked.
"When you sort and price things," He said. "Just tell people your working on a job and they can watch you sort and price. Believe me there are other channels like this and they get ton of views. Then if the asshat cousins of mine say something then you can direct them to the channel."
"I will think about it and talk to Max," I said. "I could give a commentary as well."
"Damn Amy if you do I would watch it," He said.
"Well it would teach people the value of items," I said. "It would also be publicity for the store location. Alright Chris I will talk to Max."
Chris and I talked for a while and I feel I found a friend. After he left I gave Max a call and he answered right away, "Hey Amy is it true you told Phillip Jr to go fuck himself?"
"Yes," I said. "He was being a asshat."
Max chuckled and said, "Thank you. But I know you saw Chris this morning. So what's up?"
"Well he is the sweetest man ever," I said. "But he suggested something that may shut all the cousins up."
"Really," Max said. "What did he suggest?"
"Well he suggested I set up a YouTube channel and just video my sorting," I said. "He said I could explain while I sort different items and their value and mention the store at the end and its hours."
"I swear that boy missed his calling," He said. "He is a business genius but he loves the water to much. Did you look and see what other channels look like?"
"Of course while I was eating a quick breakfast," I said. "It is a smart idea. The store is fully stocked and the stock room is becoming full. All the shelves are full and now I am filling the room while I sort. I figured I could film when I sort each particular crate or pile of crates and then just post the video if you think its something I can do."
"Sure, you can name the channel 'The Sorting Life'," He said. "You can explain your sorting the Markenshore Hotel and tell them about the items and the store. Keep it in your name and if you get enough followers you can get paid for it. I am on board for it."
"Okay I will set it up and send you the channel link when I get it done," I said. I set up an Channel in my name and did a description.
Since I had two hours to go I took my tablet and started recording a video. I ended the video saying come check out the store at the Markenshore Hotel open on Friday and Saturday from 9am-1pm. I listened for audio and uploaded it to channel. Looking at my watch I decided not to do another video until after Mike left. Walking to my room I sent Chris and Carson a link to the channel and both replied back they cannot wait to watch it. Grabbing some fruit I went back to the are I was working in and started the next box. I bought a box to the store room and I heard a knock at the door. When I opened it he said, "Hi Amy my name is Mike and I come in peace."
Opening the door Mike came in and I said, "Welcome."
"So listen I am sorry about some of the guys and I am not like them," He said. "I will say I want to move ASAP because I am a researcher and this place is so much closer to the lab but I get it. You have a process. May I watch the process?"
"Sure," I said. "Also so you are aware I just started a YouTube channel with Chris's suggestion. Max approved it as well. It's called The Sorting Life and I just uploaded the first video."
He pulled out his phone and asked, "Amy you said you just started it?"
"Yeah," I said. "Why?"
"Look at my phone," He said. "You got yourself close to five hundred subscribers."
"Holy crap," I said. "All I did was say hey and sorted and priced items. Then I told everyone about the store and invited everyone into shop on Friday and Saturday."
"Well let's see what you do so I can let you record yourself when I leave," He said.
Showing him the sorting process and pricing I filled a crate to add to the stock room. I said, "Do you understand why it takes so long? This open area was full when I started so I did get a bit done since Monday. But these are big piles and some crates have hundreds of items."
"I get it," He said. "Being a researcher I understand there is a process. Well if my cousins have any problem then let them watch the channel. But it was great to meet you but I have to get back to work. Thank you for sharing with me what you do."
I handed him my phone number and he said, "Thank you and I will be watching."
Looking at my watch I saw that I had two hours until Ben arrived. I grabbed the tablet and started to record another video. I sorted a book of boxes from a retail store, priced them and followed the same ending and stopped the video adding it to the channel. After I put the box in the store room I grabbed the next crate and made a third video. When I finished that crate and video I started the upload and brought the full crate to the stock room. When I came out I saw a man in a nurses uniform. Opening the door I said, "Ben?"
"Yes," He said. "You must be the person being a bitch to Phillip."
"You might want to check the attitude Ben," I said. "I match energy and you cannot get me fired. Well if you want to swing the proverbial dick around leave your stuff on the counter and lets get started."
"Excuse me?" He said. "You will do what we say."
"No," I said. "You do not own the hotel the company does. You were granted rooms when they become available. I will not be rushing my job because you say so and I get a lot done. Max has my back on this. Now if you think you can do it better lets go?"
"Fine little girl tell me what to do," He said.
Pointing to Phillips table I said, "That was what Phillip got through. So you got 40 min and you will choose a crate from that pile there. You will sort by brand. Then each brand you will sort to type. Let's see how well you do."
"Fine," He said grabbing a crate. I started the timer and he started a pile of clothing. I went over to Phillips table and worked on pricing instead of sorting due to the amount of items. I wanted to price what he had taken out and work the box after. I had finished all the items on the table and boxed them up as the timer went off. Looking at Bens table I saw he was only halfway through the box and the clothes were in messed piles.
I asked, "Ben I thought it would be easy?"
He turned to me and said, "Just get it finished. I won't ask again."
"I will do my job at the same speed and leave Max alone," I said. "He knows how much work it takes to do this."
He went and got his stuff. I handed him a paper with my phone number and said, "Your welcome to check on progress with me."
He took the paper and walked out. I chuckled and went back to work as it was only 5pm. I went back into the room and moved the box with Silver back to another pile. I went over and set up the tablet and decided to work the retail pile I had found. Looking at the tablet I said, "Well everyone I had been working off screen. I have a bunch of boxes ready to sort you want to watch?"
For the next hour I went through a few crates and repriced the items. I explained the history on some of the items as I continued to price not breaking my speed. When I filled a third crate I did my normal close and stopped the video. I listened to the audio and started to upload it as I moved the crates to the stock room. I took a video of the stock room and sent Max a picture and wrote, "This is the stock room before the first day of sales."
He replied and said, "I will be there at 830 to help you open the store."
I went to bed after I ate some of my leftovers and when I woke up I made some tea and went to the store. Looking out the window I saw Mike come to the door and come inside. He said, "I know you went to bed early and Carl was here last night messaging me he did not see you but heard your TV on. He thought you may be tired. Can you believe this line it wraps around the corner."
Max came in locking the door behind Mike and said, "Hey Mike do me a favor we have to limit the amount of people coming in. Limit it to ten people at a time."
Putting on a sweater I said, "I am going to greet some of the customer's while you both get set up, and do a little meet and greet."
Opening the door I said, "Good morning everyone we will be opening shortly. So you are aware there is a limit on how many people who will be allowed in at a time. So ten people at a time okay?"
I turned to a couple and asked, "How did you hear about us?"
The wife giggled and said, "Amy we watched your videos and decided to come here visit. "
I heard a bunch of people agree and I stood back and asked, "How many of you saw the videos and came to the store?"
A round of cheers went up and I laughed. I went inside and said, "They saw the videos. The line is huge and many people are there due to the video's. Mike if the stock goes down we may have to hold the door so we can get more merchandise out."
The register was ready and Max walked the store as I said to Mike, "Lets open."
The first people came in and started to shop. When Max explained all items have to be taken when purchased one overly large man tried to argue. But Max explained we just did not have the room to hold anything. I started to ring and people were purchasing a lot of the items.
One woman brought up piles of baby clothes and said "You make any deals in the items?"
"No Maam they are priced as marked," I said. "There will be no changes on the prices."
"Well what if they are marked wrong?" She said.
"Those are specialized tags and any changes will be noticed immediately," I said. "They are tamper proof."
"Oh," She said as she purchased and I circled the part on the receipt that said ALL SALES FINAL.
She looked at me and said, "No returns?"
"No Maam," I said. "There are multiple signs around the store that say all sales final and that is why we are cash only.
She left and the next woman said, "She tries to scam her way with new stores. I have seen her before."
I thanked the woman for shopping and she left and for the next two hours the shop's inventory emptied. So much so I had Max and Mike hold the door for thirty minutes so I could put out new stock. When we reopened people eagerly shopped the items in the store. When we closed at 2pm I looked at them and said, "That was insane. Max I will leave you to the register while I start to stock the store again."
Max went to the register and said, "Amy is there an opening till sheet?"
Looking up from the crate I was unpacking I said, "Under the till with large bills and extra cash."
I took the thirty minutes to unpack what I could putting the empty crates into the main room. Max finished counting and said, "Amy and Mike come here."
He handed Mike a small amount of cash and said, "Your bonus for working the shop. This will be a daily thing when we have the store sales."
Mike looked at me and said, "I am working on paying off my house. Starting back here and these percentages I should have it paid off by the end of next year."
Max said, "This is yours Amy."
I took the money and gasped, "Holy Crap."
Both Max and Mike laughed. Looking at Mike I said, "I may be following your lead and start looking into a house."
Max said, "But where would you want to get a home?"
Laughing I said, "I will be honest with you my Grandma has a house on the Canadian and Maine boarder. I may try to buy it from her as its in the mountains with eight acres. I can easily save the money to buy it from her."
Max asked, "Would you want to leave us here?"
"Oh no it would be my vacation or bugout home," I said. "Not a home I would be moving to anytime soon. But I have to get ready as Charles will be here in 25 minutes."
Max looked at me and said, "Well I guess Mike will be escorting me over to the bank then and I will see you in the morning Amy."
I locked up the door after letting them out and started to unpack another crate. When My alarm binged for 255 I finished unpacking the crate and set up in the main room. AT 3 I heard a knock at the door. Opening I said, "Charles?"
"You must be Amy," He said.
Letting him in I said, "You may want to leave your stuff on the counter. So how can I help you?"
"Listen I talked to my cousins Chris and Carson," He said. "You seem like a nice person and I am basically here for appearances. I saw the YouTube videos and I get why it takes a while. I would step on Carson toes and ask you out but I think you may have a few words for me and I would have to deal with Carson."
"Well Charles I am flattered but I am not dating at the moment," I said.
"May I ask why?" He asked.
"After being screwed over by my ex I am just trying to be me at the moment," I said. "I want to have fun but all the sex and relationship stuff is a no go for me at the moment."
Laughing he said, "I get that. So since I do not want to be put to work want help stocking the store. I went past earlier and man was there a lot of people here."
"Sure I have a lot of books to put out I cannot believe how many sold today," I said.
We each grabbed a crate and within the hour the store was full again. He said, "I know my room will not be ready for a while but I cannot wait to move in and get to know you."
When he left I went upstairs to Phillip Jrs room and set up my tablet. I started a live video and sorted and priced for two hours. Reminding people that if they did visit the store there may be long lines and we may have to close to restock. As I sorted and priced someone wrote this is not the main room you were in.
I made the comment, "You are correct I am in one of the rooms on an upper floor. You never know where I will be filming so keep an eye out to see what we will find in this treasure hunt."
When my alarm went off at seven I finished the stream and took the merchandise to the store. After storing the full crates I fit in a few of the newer items onto the floor and went to my room after meeting Carl. I told him I was going to head out for a bit to get some food and when I get back I will be in my room the rest of the night. When I went into my room I took out my bonus from today which was just over $1200. I grabbed the wood box i bought with me from Florida and put all but $200 from my bonus in the box.
I did not feel like cooking during the weekend so I grabbed my bag and went to go to some local take out places. As I went to the take out places I gathered some food and went to the Asian market for noodles and rice dishes I can cook in my room. When I got back to my room Carl called out and said, "A young man delivered this to you Amy. I believe Carson is trying to woo you with take out."
I laughed and said, "Want a snack Carl."
He laughed and said, "Oh no I eat with my Sophie before I come in every night. But you enjoy and I will see you later."
I put away my rice and noodles away and took out the food Carson sent me and as I went to text him he called me. I answered and said, "Hello Carson I just got back and got your gift."
He laughed and said, "Carl said you went to get take out. Well your fridge should be full for a few days."
"I appreciate it," I said. "I was just getting ready to get some rest and zone in front of the computer."
"Well can I ask what your doing tomorrow night?" He asked.
"The store till 2 then I am meeting up with Mark at three," I said.
"Oh boy," He said. "Listen be careful Mark is a handsy and mouthy guy."
"Well he will be in shock if he tries to get handsy," I said. "Maybe he will try to get out like all the cousins."
"Don't count on it," He said. "But how about this. I am off tomorrow night and would love to take you out. Not a date unless you want it to be. Can I beg to get you say yes?"
I laughed and said, "How about this Carson we go get some food as friends."
"Deal," He said. "I will meet you at the hotel at 6 unless you can get done sooner. Just do not tell Mark I am coming to get you because he is competitive. But I have to get back to the floor since you loved the sliders I got you a few different types along with some sides. Let me know what you like about the chicken sliders those are not on the menu yet we are testing them."
"I will give you a full review," I said. "Thank you again."
"See you tomorrow Amy," He said.
I sat down at my table and opened up the bag of food that Carson sent over and saw a pile of beef sliders, a full carton of chicken sliders and loaded mashed potatoes and what looked like lobster mac and cheese. I decided to eat the sides in the tub as I took a bath. I took a bite of the mashed potatoes and mac and cheese and thought the combo was great. I sent Carson a text saying, "Place the loaded mash on a plate and smother that with the lobster mac you will thank me."
About twenty minutes later he wrote back, "Wow that is a great find we may have made a few to share. Did you try the chicken sliders yet?"
"Pushy," I said. "I snacked on the sides while I took a bath. Getting PJ's on now."
A few minutes later he replied, "Not fair Amy. I thought we were doing the friend thing."
"We are doing the friend thing," I said. "I just said I was eating in the tub. You never ate a meal in the tub? You are missing a luxury in life."
"No I never have," He said. "But I may have to take that suggestion. But onto the chicken sliders. There is a honey BBQ, Plain, Spicey, cordon blue, and parm,"
I tried the sliders and texted back I said, "Love the Honey BBQ. The plain is good I wish it had more of the avacado mayo. The spicey is nice level of heat. The cordon blue is so good and the parm was my least favorite as the sauce is not sweet enough. The sauce tastes a bit bitter. Is the sauce normally this bitter?"
He called me and asked, "Hey did you eat all the sliders."
"No," I said. "I just cut each 1 of the chicken siders in half because I love the beef sliders. Especially the bacon and sauteed onion. Why do you ask?"
"Can you do me a favor and open the non cut parm slider and take me a picture," He asked. "The sauce is supposed to be a sweet tomato basil."
I opened the slider and took a picture. Looking at the sauce I said, "It seems like a gravy mixed with a pasta sauce."
"Thank you Amy," He said. "Enjoy the burgers and I will see you tomorrow."
"By Carson," I said.
After I ate I feel asleep and woke up and started getting ready for the store to open. I counted the till and let Mike and Max in when they arrived. The day was the same as the day before and before we opened I went outside and yelled, "Who has seen the video's?"
I heard cheers from down the line. Calling out I said, "Like usual we will let a few in at a time. There is no holds and all sales are final."
Mike let me back in and by 11am we had to hold the door to unpack some of the crates. I was thankful Max was there and we were able to get things out fast. By the time we closed at 2 the shelves were empty. I looked at Max and said, "I will make sure its stocked later today after Mark gets here."
Max looked up and said, "I should warn you."
"No need Max," I said. "Carson already did and will be here promptly at 6 to get me to make sure Mark does not hang around."
"Carson," Max said. "really?"
"We are having dinner as friends," I said.
"Hey you can date any of them you wish," He said. "Just remember they are all competitive."
"I get it trust me," I said. "I put my boundaries out and Carson gets it. He understands the rules and no is a complete sentence."
Handing me and Mike our percentage Max said, "I will head out because Mark is a twat. If he tries anything remember your training."
Nodding I let him and Mike out and went inside to start stocking the store while I waited. At 3:15 there was a knock on the door. When I answered it I said, "Your late."
He looked me up and down. Then he said, "Well I didn't want to come here smelling like a library. I figured you and I could find a nice corner to snuggle in and discuss my room."
I burst out laughing. His look of surprise made it even more funny and I said, "Did you really think that shit line was actually going to work. What kind of idiots do you actually date because that shit does not work. One you can say you want me to move faster but after you go in there you will be stupid if you think this will be a quick process. You can't bully me nor can you fire me so unless you want to be a human and understanding I have a store to stock and plans that do not include you this evening."
"Phillip was right you are a bitch," He said. "Your not worth my time let me leave and you will hurry up."
"Nah," I said. "Your low on the totem pole but you can let Phillip know I started his room yesterday."
I unlocked the door and he left. I spent the next hour stocking the room and adding the empty crates to the main lobby. Going to my room I took a shower and got ready for my date with Carson. When I was ready I went into the lobby and started to sort a crate when my phone rang. Answering I said, "Well hello Carson."
"Hey Amy," He said. He sounded mad and stressed. "I have bad news."
"What's wrong," I asked.
"I am stuck at the restaurant for another hour," He said. "I wanted to make sure Mark left and was not harassing you."
I started to laugh and said, "He came in saying we needed to have sex and talk about getting his ready for him. I laughed in his face and asked him if lines like that really work. He seemed confused that I was not receptive to his advances."
"Who do you have left to see?" He asked.
"Kyle at 7am and Adam at noon," I said.
"I thought Sunday your supposed to be off?" He asked.
"it is but I had to deal with all you Grandsons," I said.
"Well how about this," He said. "When are you supposed to be done with Adam?"
"Three in the afternoon," I said.
"Well I am sending you dinner," Carson said. "Your going to eat and take a bath. That way you can sleep and be up for Kyle and Adam. When your done with them I am picking you up and we are gonna get out of the hotel for a while. That is if that sound good for you."
"That sounds great but you do not need to send me food," I said.
His low laugh went up my spine as he said, "You may want to go to the store door. This bag has a huge Chef Salad. More of the beef sliders you like along with the a whole pack of the honey BBQ sliders. ROund two on the parm sliders, someone put the wrong sauce on them. There is also some boneless chicken tenders in both the honey bbq and buffalo. Then there are fries, onion rings and a new tempura vegetable plate. Also do not be mad there is a small air fryer with what I sent you it is not new. I upgraded mine and you said you were looking into buying one while we chatted. So I gave you my old one with the extra liners so you can save a mess. Works better than a microwave and cooks better than a toaster oven so between your microwave and air fryer you will be set."
I heard knocking at the door and saw the delivery driver. Carson waited while I got everything and locked the door. Taking everything to my room I waved to Carl who was coming and and called out, "Hey Carl I will be in my room the rest of the night. Its still just me here."
He waved and headed to the kitchen. I went into my room and shut the door placing everything on the table. I put Carson on speaker and asked, "What are you doing the rest of the night?"
"Well if you want to eat while doing facetime give me about an hour," He said.
"Okay give me a call then when you get home," I said. "I may eat a slider or two while waiting."
While I waited for Carson to call me back I grabbed a few sliders and took a quick shower. When I was done I put the air fryer next to the microwave and hot plate. Setting up my table to eat I did a quick cleaning of my room. My garbage bag was almost full. Realizing I left my tablet where I was working before Carson called I went to get it and take out t he garbage. When I walked out Carl was coming from the kitchen with a garbage bag. I asked, "Could I walk out with you to bring my garbage?"
He looked at me and said, "No ma'am you can give me your bag and I will bring it out. Its late for a lady to go into the ally."
"Thank you Carl," I said and handed him my bag.
I grabbed my tablet and pulled up the YouTube page. I had a lot of followers and realized I could put on the monetization now. I set it up for to earn but I would have to open a savings account if I made any money. This money would be for my future home. I never will worry about having a place to live ever again. All my percentage of the store sales will also be funds to pay for a home. Looking at cabins along the woods in small towns I realized I could very well buy one with what I earn and can have saved soon. While I was looking Carson called me.
"Hey Carson," I said looking at the computer screen. "You look so tired."
He asked, "Amy have you ever wished you had a place to run away and hide at?"
Laughing I said, "Its funny you should mention that."
I held up my tablet and showed him what I was looking at, "I have been thinking since I live here rent free and only have to pay for my phone and basics. I get a commission on the store sales and well as my pay. Also right before you call my YouTube channel now has enough followers to run ads for payment. I am thinking of buying a get away house. I never want to be in the position of having no home ever again."
Carson sighed and said, "Your ex was a prick wasn't he?"
"More than you know," I said. "But its okay I landed on my feet and I like to think I made better decisions."
He chuckles and said, "I believe you did. Also as a heads up Mark has set his sights on you. So when you go out please be careful I know you do the MMA and such but there has been rumors about him."
"I promise I will be careful," I said. "Carl wouldn't even let me bring my garbage out when I cleaned my room."
"Good," He said. "You only have two of us left and then you are off on Sundays."
"Thank heavens," I said. "I called my gym and they do MMA classes and sparing on Sunday mornings. So any advice with the last two?"
"Not really," He said. "Adam and Kyle are pretty good guys. If you explain to them why its taking so long they should be okay."
Yawning I said, "That sounds good."
Carson laughed and said, "I am glad we did not go out tonight. You sound exhausted."
Taking a bite of a slider I said, "I am but this is still nice having dinner with you via facetime. But I think I am heading to bed soon."
"Well get some sleep," He said. "I will be there at 3 come hell or highwater."
When we hung up I grabbed one more slider and placed the food in the fridge. Laying in bed I realized I was a bit upset I couldn't go on my date with Carson. He is definitely someone I could be hot and heavy with once I got to know him better. Settled in bed more I reached in to my side drawer and took out one of my toys to play with. I fell asleep to fantasizing about Carson.
Waking up the next morning I still felt the need i felt as I fell asleep to the following night. Taking another shower I got ready for Kyle to arrive. I made a cup of coffee and walked into the lobby. Carl walked past and said, "See you tonight Miss Amy. You have a great day!"
"You as well Carl," I said. Walking into the store I went into the store room and organized the crates. Then I walked the main show room and decided everything this week would be going to the stock room which was starting to fill nicely. All the shelves were full and I started the piles with walk ways in the middle of the room. I did see we had a pile pf empty crates in the stock room and added them to the pile in the corner of the store. Which cleared more room in the storage room.
Going back into the hotel lobby I grabbed a crate and started to price. Just before 7am there was a knock at the store door. Opening the door I said, "Kyle."
Yawning he said, "You must be Amy. Phillip must be wrong you don't seem like a bitch."
Laughing I said, "Oh I am but he was being a asshole and I matched his energy. Come on in and for the cleanliness of your belongings leave them on the counter."
He placed everything on the counter and followed me into the main lobby. He looked around and whistled, "I get the shit show. Wanna show me how you get the stuff from here to the store."
"Sure," I said. "You are aware of what is here right?"
He nodded and said, "I will admit I was not in a good place when he passed. You want to refresh me?"
"When your Grandfather passed he had 178 properties and estates, 1243 retail stores, and 500 storage unit facilities that were sold off and all the belongings were brought here," I said. "When I open a crate to sort it by brand. Once I sort it by brand each of those piles will be sorted to type in each brand and if I find a item with a store price tag that goes in its own pile. You can also check out my YouTube channel to see me do this live."
"You have a channel?' He asked.
"I started it to show certain cousins of yours that I am indeed working," I said. "I just got enough followers to monetize the account. I should thank a few of your cousins as its going to fund the deposit for the cabin I will eventually buy."
Kyle said, "Damn girl I respect you. I will definitely be tracking your progress. Tell me did you see Mark already."
"Yes," I said. "He came in thinking we were going to have sex. He was very disappointed that I said no."
"Smart," he said. "He has had assault accusations against him."
"Carson warned me," I said. "But I have an ace up my sleeve anyway."
"What's that?" He asked.
"I am a trained MMA fighter," I said. "He can try but he will fail."
Kyle looked me over and said, "Damn okay I would put my money on you. So show me what you got Amy."
"Sure thing," I said. "Set a timer for thirty minutes."
He set the timer and I sorted a full crate and when the timer went off I had the crate sorted and was well onto pricing the items and packing them into the almost filled crate. Looking up at him he said, "Your good and I get what takes so long. Yes I want to get into my room but I can be patient."
"Thank you," I said. Handing him my card I said. "You can check in with me any time."
"Thank you Amy," He said, "I am sorry my cousins are dicks but I will definitely look into the YouTube channel and can't wait to see you again."
When Kyle left I finished the pile I had sorted and moved the crate into the storage room. I went into my room and heated up some of the tenders and vegetable tempura in the air fryer. I would not need to go shopping for a few days because my fridge did have a lot of leftovers. Going back into the lobby with my food I walked into the store and looked around. I decided that I could make some more displays this week. Taking some of the crates I made display bins near the windows and moved books into the bins. I added smaller items into the display bins and by the time Adam arrived I have made a lot of room in the center of the store with walkways that lead people through the store. I had just finished setting up the last new display when there was a knock at the door.
Walking over to the door I opened it and said, "Hello Adam."
"Hello Amy," He said. "So I know you heard it before I would like my room ready but I watched you for a few and I am assuming your making room to sell more items to get the stock room emptied right?"
"That is correct," I said. "During the two days of sales we have to restock half way through so I am trying to avoid that."
"Smart idea," He said. "Carson said past the main door its a shit show. Wanna give me a tour."
"Sure leave your stuff here it is dusty," I said pointing to the counter.
Walking him through the lobby first than the building he got an idea of what I was dealing with. When we got back to the lobby he asked, "Will there be any maid service?"
"Nope no one besides you twelve, me and security are allowed in the building," I said. "If you break the rules you will lose your spot in the building. Max is very steadfast on the no one who doesn't live here is allowed."
"Noted if I want to hook up with someone I have to get a room or go back to their place," He said. "But seriously thank you Amy I will check in with you soon."
Handing him my card I said, "Just send me a text."
After Adam left I went into my room and cleaned up. Sending Carson a text that read, "I am done early!!!"
He replied, "I will see you soon."
After I got ready I grabbed some cash from my stash and placed in my wallet. Locking my bedroom door I placed my bag and keys on a pile of crates right outside the store. While I waited for Carson I sorted the next crate and continued on with the sorting and pricing. Pricing baby clothes from one crate to another I took a pile to hang on the racks in the store when I heard a knock at the door. Hanging the clothes up I turned to the door and called out, "Let me grab my bag."
I grabbed my bag, keys and phone. Walking through the store I opened the door and said, "Let me lock the door."
He took my arm and said, "Lets go get a nice lunch and then have a relaxing afternoon."
"That sounds great!" I said. "May I ask a question?"
"Sure," He said. "Ask away."
"Your family was not that close were they?" I asked.
"Ahh you do have a keen eye don't you?" He asked. "I will admit Grandpa was the glue that kept this family together. But there was a lot of sore feelings at the reading of the will. See all of Grandpa's kids and Grandkids get a stipend every month. He instilled that we would always have an income but always encouraged us to get careers to make our way. Some of the Aunts and Uncles did not want to work, my own Dad included. They figured Grandpa was rich and they would get whatever they needed. The money I get I have sent to a savings account for the future. Some spend it on partying."
"I understand," I said.
We got to Carson's restaurant and he joked, "Best place in town! I had our food prepared and we are actually going somewhere to eat as a surprise. We have both been inside way to long. Are you alright with surprises?"
Smiling I said, "I sure am."
A waitress came up and said, "Here ya go Carson. Hot food in one bag and cold in another with a cooler bag tucked in for leftover. Extra silverware and I also added a jug of sweet tea just in case."
"Thank you Cami," He said. "Now get out of here or you will be late for Macies play."
Looking at her watch she said, "See you all later I am out."
He chuckled and said, "Cami is one of my best workers. Her teenage daughter is in fiddler on the roof in theater district."
"Really that is great," I said. "When I was in high school I was prop master for my theatre department."
"You never wanted to go onstage?" He asked.
"God no," I said. "I preferred behind the scenes."
"Well I know you love orchestra music so I have a surprise for you," He said. "The driver is out back."
Carson led me through the bottom floor to the private entrance and exit and we loaded into the waiting car. We drove to the edge of the city and arrived at the North Carolina Conservatory of Music. We got out and he told the driver, "Hey Ben go ahead and take some time to get lunch and be a tourist."
Ben laughed and said, "You mean get lunch and find a shaded spot and read?"
We laughed and Carson said, "Whatever makes you happy man. There is also chairs in the trunk if you want out of the car."
We walked to the music hall and Carson said, "Ben worked for my Grandfather as his personal driver. When Grandpa passed I hired him on to drive elite guests. When his wife passed a few years ago he was going to retire but as he said, I would be bored home with nothing to do in the house."
"Its nice you were able to hire him," I said.
"You kidding me," He said. "Ben knows more about all of us in the family than anyone else. He is more family to some of us than our actual family. I am lucky to have him in my life still."
When we got to the box office he told the woman in the window, "Carson Markenshore party of two."
The attendant looked up and said, "Welcome Mr. Markenshore we will have your escort here in just a minute. You came at a great time the orchestra will be starting their rehearsal shortly."
We moved aside and a young man came out and said, "Mr. Markenshore if you and your guest would follow me. We saved you your box in the garden."
We followed the young man through a vast garden outside and were brought to a gated pavilion. He said, "Here you go sir if you need anything please use the courtesy phone and please remember rest room use is escort required."
Carson tipped the young man and we went inside. Where chairs would normally sit was a linen lined table. Carson looked at me and said, "The students here are fantastic and a few work for me when they are not in practice. To raise money for the school they rent out the pavilions, boxes and booths for picnics and catered meals."
"This is wonderful," I said. "I never knew that this could be done."
"To be honest," He said. "I didn't either until my employees told me about it. Besides it helps the school with extra funds and it gives some of the students a way to earn money as a job when they are not performing. Oh it looks like they were right they are setting up for rehearsal. They are practicing for their fall and winter concert."
"Well this is fabulous," I said. "I love orchestra music."
He smiled as he started to unload the bags and said, "I hope your hungry because I may have went over board with the food."
"I am thank you," I said. "I will admit when I get started on sorting, pricing in storing I sometimes to forget to eat."
"How is getting the rooms ready going?" He asked.
"I made a small dent in Phillips room," I said. "However I think he will be very unhappy with the room when its done."
"What do you mean?" He asked.
"Well like my room it is a suite," I said. "But its basic and all you get is a bed, dresser, microwave, table and chairs. Phillip does not seem like someone who likes to do things for himself."
"Well you pegged him pretty well," Carson said. "He has always been given everything and its very sad. His mother was the oldest of all of the kids and she doted on him. Even after all of us guys were born she always tried to put Phillip into the center of everything. Be ready for him to treat you like a maid."
Laughing I said, "You do not have to worry about me when it comes to that. My ex thought that and that was one of the reasons he claimed to cheat on me. He said a woman's place is in the home or if she chose to work she had to defer to his wants and needs."
Carson laughed and said, "I am sorry Amy I could not picture you as a housewife. A mom yes, but a housewife no. You would do what you need to do but that would be it."
"That is me one hundred percent," I said. "I believe relationships are partnerships and couples should work together."
"I agree," He said. "So let's see if we would be compatible as a couple or future partners. But before that lets eat I am starving."
We ate as we listened to the orchestra play. When we were done Carson filled up the cooler bag and said, "The rest of yours to take home."
Looking at him I said, "You know Carl said your trying to woo me with food."
He gave a sly look and asked, "Is it working?"
"Just a bit," I said. "So Carson did you have anyone special in your life?"
He gave a smile and said, "I will tell you mine if you tell me yours?"
Putting my hand out I said, "Deal."
"Two years ago I was dating a wonderful woman named Rebecca," He said. "I thought I had it all with her. The restaurant was growing in popularity and I was seeing Rebecca almost nightly. I had even started looking at engagement rings and wanted to propose."
"What happened?" I asked.
"Rebecca was a teacher and she was on a field trip with her students to a battlefield," He said. "She was watching the kids and saw a man walking towards them. She stood up and had the kids run behind the monument as he opened fire. Her quick thinking saved all the kids but she took three bullets to the chest. I was visiting Grandpa at the hospital when I got the call. The hospital had to sedate me."
"Carson," I said. Taking his hand, "I am so sorry."
"What I did not know at the time was Rebecca was pregnant and she was planning to tell me that evening," He said. "I lost her and my child that day and the coward took his own life so he could not face his crimes. A few weeks later Grandpa passed."
"I am so very sorry," I said. "No wonder you were such a mess at the reading of the will."
"So," He asked, "What about you?"
"I used to live in Florida where I helped run my families resale and refurbish store. Once day my ex walked in with his Aunt and we started a relationship which brought me here to North Carolina," I said, "We both found jobs at a company that buys and sells estates. I thought things were going fine until he demanded I started to take a more traditional role. He was mad that my estate sales and events brought a bigger profit than his. We were so busy with work I did not notice the red flags at first. He would be aggressive with our interactions at home. Then our sex life went non existent. He found a vibrator I had in the bedside table and he accused me of cheating on him. I was in the middle of a huge estate sales deal and was called into the main office. The boss said there was a complaint against me and the owner no longer wants to work with me. I asked when this complaint came in and they said an hour ago. I told her she had to be mistaken because I was on the phone with the owner at that time. She said there was no mistake and my boyfriend would be taking it over. Getting up to leave the office the owner of the estate called me. Answering I put the call on speaker and I asked him directly if I had upset him or his wife in any way with my boss listening. He said, not at all. I informed him the company took me off his sale and he would be dealing with someone else. He said absolutely not and he would work only with me. My boss was angry and said to go to my office. Ten minutes later I was called to the HR office and was told that I was being let go due to them losing the client. When I explained to HR what had happened she said there was nothing she could do but gave me a severance package. Walking to my car I saw my boyfriend and her in the shadows fucking. I went home and called the lease office to take my name off of the lease. After explaining the situation they did. Then I waited. He came home well past midnight drunk. He told me if I couldn't keep a job we were done. I said that was fine good luck affording the apartment and went to bed. He left. His Aunt called me in the morning and asked what happened. She was so mad when I told her and said come stay with her for a while."
Carson said, "You were set up?"
"Yeah," I said. "But the guy for the estate called me the day after I moved in with my ex's Aunt and hired me to do a sale on my own. His estate was massive and for a month I processed and set up the sale. It was a huge success. He had some friends who needed help so for the last six months that was what I did and then I found my job at the hotel."
He smiled and said, "Well I guess we should be thankful to the Markenshore."
"Yes I am," I said.
"Now I am able to be free and move on," I said. "How do you feel about the mountains?"
He said, "Kidnap me please."
We both started to laugh as we sat and talked till the orchestra was done rehearsing. When we got back to the hotel he said, "I had a great time, Amy."
"Me to," I said.
He leaned in and kissed me. I felt the sparks fly and as he leaned his forehead against mine he said, "I believe we are compatible but for both our sakes lets take it slow."
Nodding I went into the hotel and locked the door behind me. Walking into the lobby Carl was doing his rounds and asked, "Did you have a nice day Miss Amy?"
"I did Carl," I said. "I think I am going to turn in early it has been a very long week."
He gave me a wave and continued on. Going into my room I took some of the food out and made a small dinner. Going into the bathroom I ran a bath and climbed in to eat and relax. I got a picture from Carson a few minutes later with him in the tub eating a bowl of cereal. Sending a picture of me and my plate back we texted back and forth until I fell asleep.
*********************************************************************
Waking up before my alarm went off I got up and made some coffee to start my day. Grabbing my tablet and drink I went to the store and pulled out extra stock filling in all the nooks and crannies. When I was sure nothing else could go to the sales floor I headed up to Phillips room. Opening the door I set the trolly next to the door and grabbed the tablet to do a livestream. Doing my opening I asked, "How are you all doing today? I am in a room at the hotel and some people have asked to watch as I work. I won't be able to see the comments but I will be glad to tell you about the items. Just be aware the store is already stocked for Friday so all of this will be going to the stock room. Also if the live stream ends it is because I have to run the priced items downstairs."
Then I got to work pricing the items. As I priced I talked about the items while looking up a few prices on my phone. By the time my lunch alarm went off on my phone I looked at the screen and said, "Alright everyone its lunch time. I have to charge the tablet while I eat and I will be back later on."
As I took the first cart to the elevator to bring it to the stock room my phone rang. I did not know the number but answered it and said, "Hello?"
"Amy," The voice said. "It's Phillip and I am calling for an update to my room."
"Phillip did you get the email that was sent to you and your cousins last week?" I asked.
"Yes," He said. "It directed me to a YouTube channel."
"Did you check the YouTube channel?" I asked.
"No," He said. "You could just send me updates."
"Well if you had checked the channel this morning," I said. "You would see I am working in your room. You can see a live update by checking the newest video or livestream I do while I sort, price and educate."
"Really?" He asked.
"Yes," I said. "It keeps me from being bored while pricing, brings people to the store and I can teach people about history and items."
"You should be working in that room non stop till it is done," He said.
"Really and have no time to myself?" I said. "Oh Phillip you know there are labor laws. As a lawyer are you telling me to break the law?"
He was quiet and I said, "Is that all I am moving boxes to the storage room and would like to finish so I can eat something for lunch and get back to work."
The line disconnected and I chuckled. Saving Phillips number I continued on. Getting the remaining boxes my phone rang again from a number I did not know, "Hello?"
"Hey Amy looking good on YouTube," Chris said.
"Chris should I tell Carson your stalking me?" I joked.
"Nah," He joked. "Lets keep that our secret. But seriously I been watching your videos and you should have been a history teacher."
"Oh no I could not do that," I said. "What's up?"
"Nothing," He said. "I wanted to see how your date with Carson went. He is falling for you and I am thinking your falling for him as well."
Chuckling I said, "He is wooing me with food."
"Good your to skinny anyway," He said. "I have to talk to you about something and you cannot let this get back to Carson."
"What is going on Chris?" I asked.
"Mark is telling everyone that you and him are hooking up," He said. "Now I already told him I know that is horse shit but watch your back he is like a dog with a bone."
"Thanks Chris," I said. "I guess its a good thing I start MMA training on Sunday now that I am settled."
"Man when I am in port I am gonna have to come watch you spar," He said. "My crew and I ask that you continue to live stream. They all adore you and I will tell you they all think of you as their shinning star."
"Well you send me their names via text along with your boat I will give you all shout outs during my live streams," I said.
"Oh man are you going to be livestreaming later today?" He asked.
"Sure am," I said. "I have the tablet charging now. When I finish bringing these last few crates to the stock room I am having lunch and getting back on."
"Can you do me a favor," He asked. "Today is my boy Phil's birthday. He would love a birthday shout out from you!"
"Of course I can," I said. "Will he be watching?"
"We all will be as we have a screen and speakers that we can see on deck," He said. "But I have to get back to work so I will send you those names later. Thank you Amy."
After I hung up I brought down the last of the full crates and went to my room to get some lunch. Washing up I made myself some leftovers and filled my water bottle to bring back up to the suite. When I was ready I started the next live stream and got to work. Halfway through I said, "I was told that one of our viewers has a birthday today. I know your on the boat working but Phil I hope you have a wonderful birthday."
I saw everyone else in channel sending happy birthday s as well. I continued to price and explain the items on the live stream until I saw the battery flash. I said, "Well everyone it looks like we drained the battery for the tablet so I am going to get her charged and if we can get it charged I may be on later tonight. I normally only work till 7pm. See you all later."
Going to the storage room with priced boxes I saw Max come in the door with a huge smile on his face. I asked, "Now Max I hope you smile at your wife like that."
"Amy," He said. "You have been busy today. I had to tell you some of the higher ups for the company were worried about your YouTube channel but you changed everyone's mind today."
"How?" I asked.
"One of the board member's Dad is in rehabilitation following a stroke," Max said. "One of the nurses found your channel and have been playing the live streams and videos for him and a few residents in the common room. Amy he saw the joy you brought his Dad and a few of the people and they all are saying keep up the good work."
Smiling I said, "Well I like telling people about the items. Besides its good publicity for the store."
"Well everyone is loving what you are doing," He said. "I thought you could use the good news."
"Well after Chris's call I could use some," I said. "Walk with me I have to get more boxes."
"What is going on?" He asked.
As we went to the suite and Max complimented the progress I told him about first Phillips call and the what Chris told me about Mark. Max said, "I will let the board know about Mark. Carson already called me and told me you were seeing each other but it was in the beginning stages and you were taking it very slow. I think its wonderful and all I ask is after what you both have been through you take it slow."
"We are and will," I said. "I was going to call you but since your here you may as well know we may have a problem."
"Bad problem," He asked as we walked to the storage room.
"No good problem," I said. "Showing him the stock room I said, "Doing the live streams does not slow me down. However look by Friday we may have the stockroom filled to the brim."
"What do you suggest?" He asked.
"We may have to have a few afternoon sales if the stock room fills up," I said. "Or we arrange a few invitation only events for people to shop."
"Invitation only," He asked.
"The idea is I can set up a few days a month," I said. "Either that or we start opening the store for a few hours a day and I sort in the afternoon. Or I sort in the morning and have the store open in the afternoon."
Nodding he said, "I like the idea of opening the store. How about this when we cannot fit another item in the store or stockroom we set up a special sale for select hours. We can fit the priced boxes in the area you cleared already for now. Then you can do a live and tell people bout the special sale times."
"Alright," I said. "Special sales for now and I will make sure the priced boxes go behind the card table in the lobby if we fill the stock room. But I bet you have to get back to work and I have a few more piles to bring down and store. I should have enough time for one more live stream before I am done for the day."
Max said, "I will talk to you later. Keep me posted on the stock room."
When Max left I made sure the door was locked and I brought down more of the sale boxes. When I got back to the room I saw the tablet was almost full sorted the next batch of items while waiting for it to fully charge. When it was I did another live stream until my alarm went off for seven and my work day was done. I said, "Well everyone my day is done and look around we got a lot sorted and priced today. I hope everyone has a great night and be safe. We will meet again tomorrow."
Brining everything down to the storage room I took the tablet and charged it for the next day. Sitting in my room I heated up leftovers and started looking over the comments in the most recent live stream. I wrote down a lot of the questions that were there and thought I could answer a few from each of the videos on the next live stream. Glancing at the amount I earned from each video I was shocked to see the earnings. I logged onto my bank and opened a savings account. When the account was opened I added it to my account on YouTube and did my first cash out. Smiling I texted Carson, Good Night and went to sleep.
I woke up at five in the morning to Mike knocking at the door. Opening the door I said, "Mike is everything alright?"
"There is an officer at the store door Miss Amy they are trying to reach you," He said.
"Tell them I will be right there," I said.
Walking to the door I invited the officer's into the store and asked, "Officer's how can I help you."
"Your Amy Mitchel?" The officer asked.
"Yes I am," I said. "What is going on?"
The lead officer said, "Maam I think your being set up. Can you please give is a minute."
They went outside and Mike said, "I called Max and he will be here in ten minutes. What are you being set up for?"
Shaking my head I said, "I have no idea."
Max walked up in jogging pants and spoke to the officers. They showed him a tablet and he shook his head. They all came in and the female officer asked, "Miss can you tell me where you were at six last night?"
"The twelfth floor doing a live stream for my YouTube channel," I said. "Will you please explain to me what is going on?"
"Can you show us the video of your live stream?" She asked.
"I have to get my tablet if you don't mind," I said.
She nodded and I went to get the tablet from my room. When I got back I said, "This is my live stream starting at 5:45pm last night and it went till seven when I ended my work shift. Those time stamps are from YouTube and cannot be altered."
"Miss do you know a Shane Liably?" She asked.
"That is my ex," I said. "I have not seen him in over six months."
"Miss he is saying you broke into his girlfriends apartment and assaulted her at six last night," She said. "You do not look like the person on the video."
"Because its not me," I said. "I have not driven my car since I started working here. I have only been here, Carson's restaurant, The music conservatory and a few of the local shops, bordellos and stores. My work keeps me busy and at the end of the day I am exhausted. I have only been video chatting Carson and going to bed after seven to get up and do it all again. If you watch the hour and a half live stream I answer questions when I can and explain the items."
The officer asked, "May we asked what happened between you and your ex?"
"Six months ago his girlfriend who was my boss fired me to advance Shane," I said. "It failed and she ended up getting into trouble at work as the client hired me privately and fired the company. That client also arranged work with friends of theirs who were going to use the company he works for. I had stayed with his Aunt as she found out him and her planned this to get me out of the picture. I was staying with her till I moved into the Markenshore to start work here. I have not even been to their town in six months."
The officer nodded and said, "Thank you Miss. We do have to ask do you have cameras here at the hotel?"
Max nodded and said, "There are Camera's on every exit to the hotel if you would like to see them. You can meet me at my offices at 9am if that is alright."
He handed the officer's his card and they left. Mike said, "What in the world just happened?"
"Max I have not been anywhere but out with Carson and on this block for food," I said. "What did they show you?"
"A video of what looked like a woman with black hair and a lot taller than you," He said. "They said as soon as they saw you they knew that it was not you."
"Do I need to get a lawyer?" I asked.
"You may not like who the company lawyer is," He said. "I will speak with him personally and see what he advises. He may be a dick but he is a good lawyer."
Nodding I said, "Well I think I am going to get some coffee and go to the laundry room. I need to clear a path to the small washer and dryer so we can do laundry. You will know where I am if you need me."
Max said, "Listen you have two tablets and your laptop right?"
"I sure do," I said. "Why?"
"Live stream all day," He said. "Do not let more than thirty minutes go by between streams. Your ex cannot accuse you of something if your being monitored all day."
"Alright I will do that," I said.
Max left and Mike asked, "You alright kid?"
"Not really," I said. "Why the hell would he accuse me of this?"
Mike said, "He is an ass. Do you want company in the basement? I have another hour till I leave."
"No go ahead and do your rounds Mike," I said. "You know where I will be."
After making coffee I went down to the basement and started a live stream saying, "Before you ask we are in a different place. I looked at my laundry hamper and discovered I need to get some laundry done. The problem is in order to do it I have to clear a way to the washer and dryer. So Good Morning everyone and welcome to the laundry room."
Even at six forty five in the morning I had almost two hundred people watching me and I said, "Unless I have to switch devices or being boxes you are getting a day in the life with Amy today."
Every time I would have a dolly full of boxes I would say, "Alright everyone time me. Let's see how fast I can make it upstairs to the stock room and back to the laundry. It would be a good time for that bathroom break and to grab more coffee."
Keeping myself going all morning I jumped when I saw Phillip and Max in the laundry room door way. Turning to the screen I said, "Sorry everyone my boss scared the bejesus out of me. Never gave a girl warning. Okay everyone I am ending the live stream for a bit and we will meet up again later today. Also later on I will be answering some questions that were asked from the last live stream of last night."
Ending the live stream Max said, "I am sorry we scared you. I texted you did you not see it?"
"Sorry Max I wanted to get in here done so Phillip and I can do laundry when he moves in," I said. "It was a continuous stream. Speaking of let me tag this one so people can watch it now that it is over. I found out a few nursing homes and classes are learning from these videos."
Phillip had a softer look and asked, "Have you been down here all day?"
"Yes," I said. "I wanted a place to do laundry and then I was going to go back and work in your room. The people watching were timing me and guessing how long it would take for me to get back. I have been able to move a lot of the light crates to the tops of the piles so I can get back to your room."
Max asked, "Did you eat lunch?"
"No," I said. "Why?"
"Amy its almost three in the afternoon," He said. "Lets go to your suite so you can eat and we can talk."
"Seriously," I said looking at my phone. "Thirteen missed calls."
Checking my phone I realized it was on silent and saw most were from Chris. Looking at Max I asked, "Is Chris alright? He has called me thirteen times."
Phillip said, "Call him he doesn't call unless it's important."
Walking into my suite I dialed Chris and he asked, "Are you alright?"
"With the exception of Max and Phillip scaring the shit out of me yes," I said. "Are you alright?"
"Are they with you?" He asked.
"Yes," I said. "Why?"
"Put me on speaker," He said.
Putting him on speaker I placed it on the table and asked, "What is going on Chris?"
"Did the police come by and see you?" He asked. "What is going on?"
Phillip said, "Chris how did you know about that?"
"Amy pull up your live stream," He said. "The guys and I were stoked you were on so early and Phil had mess duty today. Every time you would bring the priced items upstairs there is a guy and girl making comments in chat."
Phillip asked, "What kind of comments?"
Chris said, "When I started watching it they were, why were you not arrested? How did you get a cozy job like that and we lost ours? You will get yours. Wait till we take that job from you. It is every time you go to the stockroom. I have screenshots and Phillip I will send them to you. What is going on?"
Phillip said, "Amy get some food. Chris bring Carson in on this call he is important in Amy's life as well."
I heated up some food and Chris called Carson. Phillip explained what is going on and he started going through the six hour live stream taking screen shots on his laptop. Carson asked, "Amy when you got the job did you tell your ex's Aunt where you would be working?"
"No," I said. "All i told her was the job came with housing."
Chris said, "Its not her fault its mine. When I suggested Amy do the YouTube channel I never thought she would get a cult following."
Phillip asked, "How is this your fault Chris?"
"Amy went from 500 followers to close to a hundred thousand in a week. Amy your about to get a silver play button," He said. "Anyone in the industry can look for people who do what Amy does and follow her. What if her ex was looking with his girl to see if they could find a job. They could see their firing Amy landed her a sweet but hard job and try to take the job from her."
Phillip said, "I have feelers out and the board loves Amy they would not hire anyone else right Max?"
Max looked up and said, "Nope the board is so pleased with Amy's work they do not want anyone else in here but her. I will talk to them though and see if anyone has dropped off applications since she started the channel. People have called the hotel line we have open wondering if we are going to be opening anytime soon. The board is happy with the progress so far and when they open as a hotel its going to be a elite building."
"So what now?" Carson asked.
"We let Phillip do his job," I said. "An I do what I do. Should I address anything in my channel Phillip?"
"Yes," He said. "I want you to tell the story of how you came to the Markenshore. Do not give names but share your experience, your losing your job, the breakup and how getting your job here is important and how you like to educate people on the items. Sell it. Not tonight though. Mention you had to speak with your boss and tomorrow your going to tell your story and how you came to be part of the Markenshore family. Even though I think Carson will solidify that in a few years anyway. Tell it as you price items and do it from my room. I think we have enough room in the laundry room all of us can do laundry now."
Chris chuckled and said, "There it is. Phillip you get the first room man."
"No," I said. "Phillip is right. After I pull the items that were priced we have enough room in there for now. Besides Phillips room is coming along and people love to see the progress. After I eat I will get my supplies and what is priced up to the stock area and we will go from here. Oh and Phillip this is the exact layout of your room. I hope you are ready to downsize."
He said, "Less to clean."
"Carson," I said. "I will speak with you tonight after seven. Chris tell the guys I will be on in about thirty minutes. Max and Phillip keep me updated on what is happening please. Now out I have work to do."
I hung up my phone and Phillip put his hand out and said, "Truce?"
Shaking his hand I said, "Truce. But do not think I will not put you in your place."
He gave a genuine smile and said, "Deal. Come on Max I have a feeling Shane and his girlfriend submitted applications. Maybe we should call them in and have a word with them."
After they left I moved everything back to Phillips room after I checked the washer and dryer connections and started a new live stream. During the intro I said, "Hey everyone guess what my boss loves our Sorting Life community and he said I can tell you all about how I became a member of the Markenshore family. So tomorrow at one I will be doing a live stream and spilling all the details. But for now how are you all doing? No timing me now as I finished getting the laundry room and I am in the twelfth floor suite again. Lets sort and chat."
The remaining part of the night I did a few smaller live streams as I worked in the suite. Everyone became excited as I found a few chairs and trunks. By the time my work was done I had made huge progress in Phillips suite pulling boxes from the bathroom and making my way into the front room of the suite.
***************************************************************
The next morning I woke up and had a message from Max saying, "Mention your story during your morning live streams. Phillip and I will be there behind the tablet while you tell your story. We are going to monitor the chat to see what happens."
Getting dressed I made some coffee and heard a knock at the door as I heated up breakfast. Opening the door Phillip and Max stood waiting. Smiling I said, "Come on in guys I am eating breakfast real fast and then will get set up. Is there anything specific you want me to mention?"
Phillip sat down and said, "We want you to emphasize why you moved to our city. Lay it on thick and then tell about how you lost your job and what you did from then till now. We will be monitoring the chat and will be seeing if they say anything."
Max said, "When your finished filling a crate stack it on the dolly and I will bring it downstairs and place it in the over flow pile. That way you can keep going. The board is very unhappy that your ex and his old boss are trying to cause issue when the popularity you have brought to the company and the hotel is going to make the Markenshore the top rated hotel it used to be."
"I am glad," I said. "People wished we could open the store more often. I am thinking that we should consider opening it one to two mornings in additional to what we have already."
Max said, "We are considering it but we are thinking one or two extra days a month will be what we can do for now. I love how you made the isles so everyone has to follow the path and go past check out to leave. But the over flow area is what we are going to use for now. Only because we do not want any more staff in here than possible. Once you get the bedrooms done we want you to start in the basement and work your way up because then we can get the rooms redone and decorated. We are considering opening up the floors as you go from the top to the bottom. Once that starts we will consider hiring extra staff including a sales person."
"That is a good plan," I said. "Then I can put more boxes in the stock room after the sales days. But I would suggest that maybe is you can arrange it after this video we have the store open a bit longer because people will be intrigued and want to see the store."
Phillip asked, "You would not mind cutting into your time off?"
"No," I said. "It will move stock and the last time we shut the store down the line was still down the block."
Max nodded and said, "Well let me call Mike and if your on board I will be as well. Your right the line was long. Do not mention it and when people get here on Friday morning when your outside doing your greeting you can mention it."
Washing my plate in the sink I said, "Well the cart is already up in Phillips room so I have all the devices charged and ready to go. Let's see what kind of trouble they want to cause."
Amy Mitchel - Max Harland- business manager Markenshore Hotel Mike(Annie)/carl-security
Shane Liably- Ex
The Sorting Life- Store 9-2 Fri and Sat
12 Grandsons
1. Phillip Jr 30 Lawyer Does not like Amy much- underlying tension
2. Carson 29 Restaurant Owner Wants to get to know Amy better but is not being pushy.
Workers- Cami, Ben
3. Ben 29 RN Nurse Hates Amy
4. Shane 29 Violinist Sweet and kind to Amy- Has her back.
5. Mike 28 Researcher Friendly
6. Max 28 Personal Trainer Openly wants to have sex
7. Charles 27 Physical Therapist Wants to be more than friends
8. Mark 27 researcher assumed amy would sleep with him
9. Sam 27 Teacher Wants to be friends
10. Kyle 26 Biologist interested
11. Chris 25 Charter Boat Captain Friend (Crew- Phil)
12 Adam 24 Zoologist inuendo's
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