Chapter Text
Robert, at the end of the day, exhausted from being on his feet for so long for the first time in years, entered the suite room and collapsed immediately. His tail was wagging happily, even though all he could wonder for a moment was how people still find the energy to keep moving all day. He couldn't help but envy them. Yet, it truly was an amazing day- he felt so… alive . Like the rush when he started from nothing but the ground up.
With a newfound energy and a grin on his face, he looked around the room for his bag while he had his phone out to call his assistant. His bodyguards- who had been silently watching this entire spectacle from the dark corner of the room- spectated in confusion on what their boss was trying to do now.
“Yes, Alice? Sorry for bothering you at this hour. I know you have the kids and all- but I need to ask a favor. Yes, yes, I’ll make it worth your while with a small bonus, anything you want. N-No, I haven't gone insane. You make it sound like I’m stingy. Anyways ,” he rolled his eyes, having finally found his laptop in his briefcase. “Can you email me an employee file? ‘Chris B.’ I think his name tag said…. No, Alice, this isn’t a prank call. When have I ever done that?”
“Last summer in Boca Raton, you met with business partners for a meeting and they got you wasted as hell-” “Jess.” “C’mon Ron he asked!” “To Alice!”
As Robert ignored his bodyguard's bickering in their dark corner, patiently waiting for his assistant to send him the file. Finally, the ‘ding’ notification went through, and he thanked Alice, who immediately hung up. It was understandable, being late and all, so he paid no mind as he opened the email to read.
Christopher Baxter. Also known as Chris. Age 24. Worked at the Hotel for years, far longer than most would have usually lasted in his position. He guessed the pay was far more generous than most other competitors…
That was enough prying from him however. Anything personal he would love to hear from the bunny himself. Tugging at the shirt collar around his neck, he closed the laptop and stretched.
“I can’t wait for tomorrow.” He mumbled to himself, as Jess perked up.
“For the meeting, right?” She asked, as Robert averted his eyes and fiddled with his shirt buttons. Her mouth pressed into a thin line.
“For the meeting,
right?
”
—
“Okay, I got this. I just need to tell him the truth. Reassure him I’m not mad, give him a bonus for his great work, then get to my meeting on time.” Robert said to his reflection in the mirror. A glum frown stared back at him. He really wanted to keep talking with Chris, but if he knew the truth he would absolutely treat the wolfman like everyone else. It was such a rare chance! To be treated with a special kind of brutal honesty, not being catered or sweet-talked because of his position. He missed those days, only his mamá still did that.
Robert knew he had think rationally about this. He wasn’t some… hormonal teenager. He knew the truth had to come out; It was the adult thing to do. The impulsive side of his brain however, said fuck all that. He deserved this, such a unique opportunity would never come by again. So, taking a deep breath, he made his choice.
“Ah, Robert. You got here really early huh?”
“Yes! I even remembered to bring my tie, see?” The wolfman grinned, lifting the yellow tie proudly.
Chris held back a snort, shaking his head. “You take pride in the silliest of things. Are you a wolf or a dog?”
“Rude.” He laughed, his furry tail wagging fiercely behind him. He ignored the fierce glare Jess was sending him. It was
fine
. Alice postponed it for next week. The bonus bribe was truly his favorite weapon. Besides, it could be an undercover learning experience.
He did have to tell the truth eventually, sometime within the week would be ideal.
“I will say it is nice to be listened to. Jenna always thinks she’s the boss between the two of us.” Chris tutted, organizing some papers in the front desk to prepare for the checkout hell. “Well, technically she is older than me, but that's besides the point. Respect is earned, and it’s not like she’s the damn owner of this place to tell me to handle the long line. We are a team .” He ranted, not noticing Robert’s shaking hands and pained smile. “Right. Of course. That’s why I listen to you.”
“Riiight…” Chris raised a brow, confused. “Well anyways, after checkouts, want to grab some lunch together? I didn't have any leftovers to bring and I didn't see you bring a box with you, so I was ju-” as he was cut off, Robert immediately grinning.
“Absolutely! My treat!”
“Eh? Wait wait-” The bunny waved his hands to pause Robert. “I suggested the idea. It’s my gift to you surviving the absolute hell that is morning checkout. Why the hell would I make you pay? You’re new.” he huffed, arms crossed.
“My mom would have my head if I didn't show manners.”
“Yea, that’s cute mama’s boy, but I was also raised with manners. My offer, my treat. Now shut it and get your best smile on. The horde approaches, and it’s spring break season.” Chris said, face grim. Robert shuddered a bit himself.
“I offer my prayers to the housekeepers…”.