Page 135 of Bred By the Sheikh

“The fireworks are becoming more frequent,” Farah said. “I’ve prepared the quieter room for Goblin and asked the staff to keep the curtains closed once the main display begins.”

“Thank you, Farah. I appreciate it.”

I kissed the top of Goblin’s head.

“You hear that? You’ve got private accommodations for New Year’s Eve.”

Goblin shoved her nose beneath my chin.

“She already lives better than I did in Omaha.”

“That isn’t a particularly difficult standard to exceed, based on what you’ve told me.”

“You have never lived in Omaha.”

“No, but I’ve heard enough about the expired yogurt to form an opinion.”

Farah stopped smiling.

I handed Goblin over.

“Have a good New Year, tiny criminal.”

Goblin reached one paw toward my hair as Farah carried her away.

Tariq watched them leave.

“At some point, that cat is going to own the entire residence.”

“She already thinks she does.”

My phone rang on the dressing table.

I glanced at the screen.

It was Elias.

“I need to take this. It’s Elias.”

Tariq stepped back immediately.

I answered.

“Hi, Elias.”

“Good evening, Chrissy. I have one question before the countdown crowds increase.”

“What’s happening?”

“The smaller lounge near the east side has become much busier than expected. Guests who don’t want the main celebration volume are settling there instead. We had planned to reduce service shortly before midnight.”

I pictured the space.

We’d deliberately kept it outside the loudest part of the New Year’s Eve programming, but nobody had expected quite so many people to choose it.

“Are they staying because it’s quieter?”

“That appears to be the reason.”