OLIVER'S RISE TO INFLUENCE

CHAPTER FOURTEEN. THE LUXOR ENCOUNTER: DINE, DASH AND DRAMA

Oliver and his friends were momentarily stunned by the security guard’s comment. They exchanged glances, then erupted into laughter.

“We’re here to eat with my friends, not apply for a job,” Oliver said, chuckling. They laughed as they walk past the guard.

But the guard stepped in their path, giving them a derisive look. “Well, we don’t allow people like you into our premises,” he said dismissively, looking them up and down through the gate.

Oliver frowned at the guard’s response. “Why not?” he asked, puzzled.

The guard replied curtly, “Due to our policy and for security purposes, we don’t allow in people who can’t afford our services.”

Oliver’s irritation flared. “And who told you we can’t afford your services?” he demanded, now visibly annoyed.

The guard eyed Oliver and his friends skeptically. “If you can’t come here in a car, how can you possibly afford our services?” He then raised his voice, “This is the Luxor hotels and not some roadside shops. We don’t allow people who come b