LBH

Short Story Day 170 of 365

“Thank you for calling LBH where low budget is in our name. This is Tanya. How may I assist you today?”

“I need a room in Round Rock Texas for two days, two people, on Wednesday and Thursday, 18 and 19 March.”

Tanya tapped a few buttons. “In luck, sir, we have those rooms available but they’re going quickly. Two left at $34.98 for both nights total.”

“Wow, that’s pretty, uh, cheap. Does it include breakfast?”

Tanya said, “That’ll be a nominal charge of $16 per person per day.”

“Oh, I see. Does the room have a coffee maker?”

“No sir. It does not, but we do serve freshly brewed coffee in the lobby. All beverages, which includes soft drinks, coffee, tea, hot chocolate for a nominal charge of $4 each.”

“Hmm. Is there a fitness room at the hotel?”

“Oh absolutely, sir,” Tanya replied. “State-of-the-art equipment for a nominal charge of $7 per person per day.”

“Bottled water?”

“Yes sir, Included in the list of beverages in the lobby. $6 per bottle.”

“Parking? Now, parking is certain to be included.”

“Well, sir, we do charge a nominal fee of $15 per night per vehicle, but that includes a covered parking area with security cameras canvassing the entire area.”

“So, Tanya, tell me, what do we get for $34.95?”

“A room that will knock your socks off and a night’s rest you’ll rave about for weeks,” said Tanya.

“A TV? Internet?”

“A nominal charge for both for $5 per night.”

“Sheets, pillow cases, towels, shower curtains?”

“Sir, I think you’re being coy and disrespectful now,” Tanya said. “Of course we provide those items. While we were discussing the room, one room was already snatched up. Shall I reserve that last room for you, sir?”

“No, I don’t think so. We’ll stay in our car.”

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