Hidden identity
Author: PD's pen
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-29 19:42:56

The soft bed and quiet surroundings of the hotel room lulled Tony into a deep and restful sleep, something he hadn't experienced in ages at the Lugard mansion. When he awoke the next morning, he felt refreshed and invigorated, ready to take on whatever the day had in store for him. He had never felt so well-rested and energized in a long time.

Tony sprang out of bed, eager to get ready for the day ahead. He showered and dressed quickly in the casual clothes he had brought from the mansion the previous day. He had planned to spend the night in the hospital with his grandmother and get an early start on his job search the next day, his plans changed when he encountered his uncle at the hospital.

"Greetings, young master," said the two men who were standing in front of the hotel door, bowing deeply as Tony emerged from his room. Tony looked at them in surprise, not recognizing them.

"Who are you?" he asked, a note of surprise in his voice.

"We are your bodyguards, sir," they said in unison, still bowing. Tony noticed a small crowd had gathered to watch the scene unfold. The bodyguards' clothes bore a royal seal, indicating that they were high-ranking members of the royal security detail. They were even higher-ranking than the bodyguards he had seen with his uncle.

"Are you here from my uncle?" Tony asked, his voice betraying a hint of curiosity. The two men nodded in confirmation, and he felt a strange mixture of excitement and trepidation. On the one hand, it was thrilling to think that his uncle provided him with royal bodyguards. On the other hand, he worried that this kind of high-profile protection would draw too much attention to him. He wanted to keep a low profile, at least for now.

"How did you find me?" Tony asked, suddenly anxious about the idea of being followed. The hotel manager quickly approached them. She had been standing in the distance with the onlookers.

"Good morning sir. We informed them immediately we saw your master card. The seal on the card is reserved for royalty, and we were aware of the special treatment that comes with it. It turns out that your mother is one of the largest shareholders in this hotel, and she has placed you in charge of her shares." The manager added, her tone far more respectful than it had been the previous day.

"That's...understood," Tony said, his eyes darting between the bodyguard and the hotel manager.

"But I'm not interested in any sort of protection at the moment. If I ever need it, I'll get in touch with my uncle directly," he added, his tone flat and dismissive.

"As you wish young master," The bodyguards chorused and bowed, before retreating to the background. Tony exhaled a long, slow breath, feeling the tension in his body dissipate.

"Do you need anything this morning, sir?" the manager asked tentatively, her voice quavering ever so slightly. "We've prepared a VIP suite for you, in case you'd like to move from your current room. All expenses have been covered since you're a shareholder," she added, her eyes wide with anxiety.

"That's very kind of you, but I'm perfectly happy with my current room," Tony said, "Please don't worry about it. I'll let you know if I need anything."

"Perhaps you'd like some breakfast, sir?" the manager asked tentatively, and Tony could tell she was trying to make up for her yesterday's blunder.

"That would be most appreciated," he replied, smiling warmly to put her at ease. "It's been a long night, and I could use some sustenance."

The manager's shoulders relaxed and she nodded in understanding. "I'll have breakfast brought up to your room right away," she said, a relieved smile finally breaking across her face.

"I'd prefer to have breakfast in the executive dining hall," Tony replied, sensing the manager's eagerness to please. "It would be lovely to take in the ambiance and the view of the surroundings," he added, watching as her expression changed to one of relief.

"Of course, sir," she said with a nod, and he could tell that she was grateful for the chance to make amends.

"I'll make sure everything is arranged," she added before turning to leave.

It was clear to Tony that the hotel staff had been instructed to treat him with the utmost respect, even though he wasn't dressed in the usual regalia of royalty. They were unfailingly polite and considerate, going out of their way to make him feel welcome and comfortable. He couldn't help but wonder if the manager had something to do with it.

As he continued to observe the staff, he began to notice small details that confirmed his suspicions. The waiters and waitresses seemed to have been briefed on his preferences, and they went above and beyond to ensure that he was well taken care of.

Tony found himself seated at a table laden with an array of delectable dishes, enough to satisfy even the most discerning palate. He took his time to carefully select a few of the items, then instructed the staff to distribute the rest among themselves.

The manager approached Tony's table with an apologetic look on her face.

"Pardon the interruption, sir," the manager said, her tone respectful and calm,

"Some prominent clients will be arriving shortly, and they have expressed an interest in discussing a potential partnership with the hotel. It would be an honor to have you join us in the boardroom if you're available," she continued, her eyes trained on Tony's face, gauging his reaction.

Tony waved a dismissive hand. "I'm sure you can handle things without me, there's no need for me to join," he replied softly.

As Tony savored the delicious meal in front of him, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude wash over him. In less than 24 hours, his life had taken a complete turn - he was now a member of a wealthy and powerful family, and he had access to a world he had never even imagined. He still couldn't quite believe it was all real, but he had to admit that he was enjoying the feeling of luxury and privilege that came with his new identity. It was an experience like no other.

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    CHAPTER 164-THE TORTURE 

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