“It’s disgraceful. The original building was demolished in nineteen sixty-three, causing a big controversy with historical preservationists in New York.”

“It is rather shabby,” Myra commented. “And I know they have problems every day. But let’s not dwell on this hot mess. Let’s get to our hotel and lunch!”

Annie looked for a redcap to help with their luggage. She finally spotted what seemed to be the only one in sight and flagged him over. “Hello. Would you be so kind as to assist us with our luggage?”

The man beamed and pulled the dolly over to where they were standing. The train conductors had helped them off with their belongings. “I would be happy to. Are all these yours?” He pointed to the assortment of bags and suitcases.

“We like to travel light.” Everyone cackled at Annie’s remark.

“You plan on staying awhile?” the redcap asked.

“Just a few days,” Myra answered, not offering any other information.

They proceeded to the elevator, which seemed to be in New Jersey. After a long walk, they finally squeezed themselves and the luggage into the elevator car. When they reached the main level, the redcap delivered them to the sidewalk, and Annie gave him a twenty-dollar bill.

He tipped his hat. “Thank you very much. You enjoy your stay.”

Annie looked for the car that was supposed to be waiting for them. She knew the three of them and all their luggage would not fit into a regular taxi. Through the bustle of cars, cabs, and vans, she spotted the vehicle with her preassigned number in the window.

“There he is!” She waved in his direction.

The problem was getting their luggage across the four lanes of traffic. It was a free-for-all. Horns beeping, people yelling, police blowing whistles. Myra thought Charlotte might just faint.

“Are you okay?” She took Charlotte by the elbow.

“Yes. I’m just, well, a little overwhelmed, I guess you’d say.” Charlotte took a deep breath.

“No doubt. You’ve been through a lot, and now we sucked you into this,” Annie said while trying to stop traffic. “No! You get out of the way!” she shouted at a cabdriver.

Charlotte cringed and pulled Myra closer to her. Myra chuckled softly. “Don’t worry, dear. She won’t get us killed. Arrested? Maybe.” That made Charlotte giggle as they moved closer to the waiting car.

The driver got out and stowed their bags in the trunk of the town car. “Ritz-Carlton?” he asked.

“Yes,” they said in unison, causing the driver to look in his rearview mirror. They looked like three women who were on a crazy road trip. Little did he know that he wasn’t far from wrong.