The Manhattan Regal loomed over the bustling New York streets, its gleaming glass facade shimmering like a beacon of unattainable luxury. It was the kind of place Ava usually avoided—intimidatingly pristine and unnervingly expensive. Clutching her suitcase and her last shred of patience, she stepped out of the taxi and craned her neck to take in the sheer height of the building.
Ryan stepped up beside her, letting out a low whistle as he adjusted the strap of his duffel bag. "Fancy. Do you think they charge extra for breathing the lobby air?"
"Focus," Ava muttered, shifting her grip on the suitcase. "We need to check in and make sure Mei didn't—"
She stopped mid-sentence, her heart sinking as she spotted Mei and Harold comfortably settled in the lobby. Their floral-print suitcases were stacked neatly beside them, and Mei waved enthusiastically, her face radiating innocent mischief.
"Oh no," Ava groaned, her eye twitching.