all day with Ida.” She shook her head. “I know I shouldn’t have, but the words had already come out of my mouth. I’m sorry, Vicky. As soon as she heard that she grabbed her camera and said she was going to catch the two ‘love birds’ and splash it all over the newspapers.”
Vicky’s eyes widened. She knew that Ida was only enjoying Roman’s company, but Freida could make a scandal out of anything. If she took those pictures of Roman and Ida together, not only would Roman’s reputation be in question, but Rex would likely see the photographs as well and might be upset by them. She heard the ding of the elevator announcing that it had reached the lobby.
“We are going to have a serious conversation about guest privacy, Monica,” Vicky said. Before Monica could defend herself Vicky hurried away to confront Freida at the elevator.
Freida stepped out of the elevator. She had her camera slung over her shoulder and a determined smirk on her lips. Vicky knew that she had to intervene fast if she was going to prevent her from creating a scandal that would not only involve Ida, but also the Heavenly Highland Inn.
“Freida! I’m glad I caught you.” Vicky smiled warmly.
“I’m sorry, I’m on my way out.” Freida tried to brush past Vicky.
“Wait just a minute, please.” Vicky lightly touched the woman’s arm. She knew that Freida had the power to write a scathing article about the inn and cause quite a bit of damage to their reputation. She had to handle this very carefully.
“I’m sorry, I’m in a bit of a rush.” Freida looked at her crossly.
“I just wanted to be sure that you had everything that you needed. Did you find fresh towels in your bathroom?” Vicky moved between Freida and the door.
“I did. They’re fine. Everything’s fine. Now, I must be going.” Freida tried to step around Vicky. Vicky moved swiftly to block her way.
“Oh, I’m so glad. I have to admit, I’m a little star struck. I’m one of your biggest fans, and to have you staying here is a true honor.” Vicky forced her smile to grow even wider.
“I think it’s great that you’re a fan, but right now, I’m trying to work.” Freida met Vicky’s eyes with a look of warning. “Kindly move out of my way.”
“I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to prevent you from working. Maybe I could tag along?” Vicky widened her eyes to show how eager she was. “It would be amazing to see you in action.”
Freida gazed at her skeptically. She looked as if she was about to call Vicky out on her terrible acting. Instead her scowl faded and a hint of arrogance entered her expression.
“Not too many people have the opportunity to see me in action.” She tilted her head to the side. “I guess it wouldn’t hurt to have you along. You might be able to help me navigate the area.”
“Oh great!” Vicky nodded. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity.”
“Great, well I’m headed out now.” She began to walk towards the door. Vicky suddenly realized the mistake that she had made. She needed to check on the banquet hall to be sure it was ready for dinner service, but instead she had committed herself to wandering the area with Freida. Luckily, before she had to comply with Freida’s wishes, Ida swung the front door of the lobby open. Roman held it open as she stepped inside. Then Roman stepped in behind her. He slid his arm through Ida’s. Freida raised her camera, ready to pounce. Vicky jumped in front of the camera before Freida could snap the picture.
“Are we leaving now?” Vicky asked. Freida kept trying to get around Vicky to take the picture. Vicky kept moving in the same direction to block Roman and Ida. Ida caught sight of the two and hurried Roman to the elevator. Freida groaned with exasperation as the elevator doors slid shut.
“I should have known.” She shook her head. “All you’re trying to do is stop me from doing my job. You’re no fan of mine.”
Vicky pursed her lips. She knew that she