Not seeing the unharvested corn fields due to the wrong season was indeed regrettable.
However, along the historic Route 66, one could still see Native American reservations, endless deserts, old taverns selling soda and spirits, motels with flickering neon lights, vintage gas stations, wilderness dotted with occasional cacti, and yellow stone mountains with bizarre rock formations.
Without the bustle of the city, the busy daily routine seemed to have been put on slow motion, and the pace of life immediately slowed down.
Although the long-distance driving brought some fatigue, as he gradually came to appreciate the joy found in ordinary life, Stark mental state had improved considerably compared to before departure—if he had previously harbored some anxiety, unconsciously worrying about the surgery, at this moment, he had finally truly calmed his mind and relieved the deep-seated anxiety within.
Without realizing it, the group had arrived at an important milestone in their journey.
Las Vegas.
"Guys."
"Welcome to my territory."
Sfter getting out of the car and turning to face his companions, Stark opened his arms and revealed an excited yet smug smile.
This phrase "my territory" didn't merely indicate that he frequently visited this area for entertainment and had enough experience to serve as a tour guide.
True to the literal meaning, Stark also had investments in Las Vegas, and quite a few at that.
For example, the magnificent, opulent hotel standing before them.
Although he had purchased it at the time to make his own entertainment more enjoyable and free, it was undeniably an asset under Stark personal name.
"I can't wait to lie down on a big bed."
Rhodes stretched lazily and said with a smile.
"Mr. Stark, give me a room with a king-sized bed, with a massage bathtub."
He was treating Stark like a lobby manager responsible for receiving guests.
"No problem."
Stark didn't mind at all.
With a snap of his fingers, he walked ahead with absolute panache.
"I've arranged everything on the way here."
Stark himself and Pepper Potts moved into the "King Suite" that was only open to the owner.
Not the Presidential Suite? But a suite called the King Suite?
Well, judging by the name, it was definitely named by the proud and narcissistic Stark.
Given his personality, it wouldn't be surprising at all if he said something like.
"This is my hotel, I am the king here."
Shi Xiaolei family was arranged in the "Duke Suite." which was equivalent to the Presidential Suite in other hotels.
Obviously, this name was also derived from the King Suite.
As for Rhodes and Happy.
According to Stark original plan, he had intended to arrange "Ambassador Suites" suitable for solo travelers for the two of them.
However, considering that now that they were in the hotel, there were plenty of staff to command, there was no need for Happy to follow them around constantly.
So Rhodes proactively suggested changing rooms, and ultimately, he and the temporarily idle Happy moved into a double room closest to the casino.
Yes, this hotel also had a casino.
In fact, it was precisely because Stark had lost quite a bit of money here on a certain day a few years ago, feeling frustrated, that he angrily purchased this hotel out of embarrassment.
And after that, because Stark had said, "Since it's become mine, it must surpass others." the hotel interior, including the in-house casino, underwent two rounds of upgrades and renovations.
Today, this hotel, which Stark named "Golden Coin." had become the most famous check-in spot in Las Vegas.
Good food, good entertainment, good sights—it had everything you could want.
Given this rare opportunity, without having to pay the bill himself, Rhodes certainly wouldn't pass up such a good chance.
As for Happy, Rhodes had actually just found him to be a companion.
He didn't believe that Shi Xiaolei, who had brought his family, or Stark, who had Pepper accompanying him, would spare time to join him for a round in the casino.
...
Three hours later, after dinner in their rooms, Rhodes and Happy arrived at the casino together.
They had just exchanged chips using the receipt signed by Stark and hadn't yet decided what to play first when suddenly, they spotted two very familiar figures.
"Hmm?"
"Happy, look over there. That's Rock and Bayonetta, right?"
Somewhat surprised, Rhodes raised his hand to tap Happy, who was also holding a small box of chips, and pointed into the crowd.
Both had their backs to them, so their faces weren't visible.
Plus, the man was wearing a suit, and the woman was dressed in an elegant and stunning evening gown.
No matter how they looked, it was impossible to match them with the impressions formed over the past dozen or so days.
However, after looking carefully for a few seconds, Happy nodded.
"It should be them. Being that tall and together, I can't think of anyone else it could be."
One over two meters tall, the other with high heels also reaching one meter ninety.
Besides the possibility of "Shi Xiaolei and Bayonetta." perhaps only a combination of a basketball player and a professional model could match.
But where would a regular basketball player have Shi Xiaolei robust physique, and where would an ordinary model possess Bayonetta alluring charm?
Just looking at their backs, they felt it couldn't be anyone else, and upon approaching, it indeed was them.
Somewhat surprised to see Shi Xiaolei and Bayonetta, Rhodes curiously asked.
"What are you doing here?"
"Bayo wanted to come."
Pointing back at the silently smiling Bayonetta with his thumb, Shi Xiaolei explained with slight helplessness.
"You guys know, given her ability to attract attention, if she didn't have someone accompanying her as a shield, she'd definitely attract countless flies. She said she was too lazy to deal with them and wanted to relax and enjoy herself, so I had no choice but to accompany her."
"Indeed."
Looking her up and down, because of Bayonetta current attire, Rhodes eyes also unconsciously revealed a hint of intoxication.
"If it were me, seeing Bayonetta in this state, I would definitely approach her without hesitation. Bayonetta, honestly, you look absolutely stunning."
"Agreed."
Happy also expressed his agreement.
"At two o'clock, there are a few young men looking this way. If I'm not mistaken, they must be captivated by Bayonetta."
"So it seems I chose this outfit correctly, didn't I?"
Bayonetta smiled.
"Of course."
"One hundred percent right choice."
After exchanging greetings, the four headed into the casino together.
"With anything, it's important to progress step by step. At the beginning, it's better to play games with simpler rules and smaller stakes."
As a veteran, Rhodes naturally took the lead.
While introducing, he led the three to a gambling table equipped with a roulette wheel.
"After warming up and adapting to the casino atmosphere, when your luck has been sufficiently tested, then go try those more exciting games. I always do this—play a few rounds of roulette when I first enter."
As he spoke, he joined the gambling round.
Casually placing his chips on one of the squares, Rhodes revealed an excited look.
"This is my lucky number. You should all choose one too."
"A lucky number? Then I'll choose this."
Bayonetta reached out, pinched two chips from the box Shi Xiaolei was holding, and gently placed them on the table.
"13? Are you sure?"
"No number could suit me better than this one."
(T/N: Like the story fellow daoist?you can read 20 chapters ahead on my P@treon [[email protected]/DaoistRongyi] Thanks for your support! 😊)