“Let me get this straight.” He braced his hands on the counter and leaned in closer to the clerk. “There’s only . . . one bed?” The young man blinked at him. “Yes, sir.” When Alex pumped his fists in triumph, punching the air, Lauren and the clerk both jumped. “This is the best day of my fucking life!” he shouted. “Only! One! Bed! My second-favorite trope!”

