Monica Lane, the assistant manager, emerged from the back office after sensing the escalating commotion, immediately aligning herself beside Bradley with visible authority and unmistakable skepticism.
“Ma’am, we require verifiable identification confirming your ability to occupy accommodations valued at three thousand dollars per night,” Monica announced firmly, extending her hand with bureaucratic detachment.
Diana handed over her driver’s license without protest, watching silently as Monica examined it with exaggerated suspicion, holding it beneath the chandelier light while scrutinizing every detail as though authenticity itself were improbable.
“This document could also be falsified,” Monica said sharply, loud enough for surrounding guests to hear clearly. “Identity fraud has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years.”
Bradley nodded approvingly, already reaching for his phone.
“We should involve the authorities immediately,” he declared, dialing with performative urgency. “Protecting legitimate guests remains our highest priority at all times.”