On a brisk autumn evening, the Royal Beacon Hotel radiated elegance, with its magnificent chandeliers illuminating the polished marble floors in a warm glow. Guests conversed in the lavish lobby, their voices harmonizing with the gentle melodies of classical piano music. Marissa, the young receptionist, stood poised behind the front desk, embodying professionalism in her tailored attire. Having been part of the hotel for three years, she took great pride in maintaining its prestigious reputation. Her keen gaze assessed each guest who entered, applying an unspoken criterion she believed represented the ideal clientele,

As the night progressed, Marissa welcomed a stream of well-dressed guests with her practiced smile. However, just before midnight, the lobby doors swung open, revealing a tall Black man who stepped inside. Dressed in a hoodie and jeans, he appeared relaxed, yet his face bore signs of fatigue. The stark contrast between his informal clothing and the hotel’s opulence was evident, causing Marissa’s professional smile to waver slightly.