It was indeed a pity that the season was wrong, and we couldn't see the unharvested cornfields.
However, along the historic Route 66, one could still see Indian reservations, endless deserts, old taverns selling sparkling water and spirits, neon-lit motels, aged gas stations, scattered cacti in the wilderness, and strangely shaped yellow rock mountains... Gone was the hustle and bustle of the city, and the busy daily routine seemed to be slowed down, the pace of life suddenly decelerating.
Although the long drive brought some fatigue, as he gradually experienced the joy in the ordinary, Stark's mental state was much better than before he set off—if he had harbored some unease and constantly worried about the surgery, now, he had finally truly calmed his mind and relieved the deep-seated anxiety.
Unknowingly, the group arrived at an important point in their journey.
Las Vegas.
"Guys," Stark said, stepping out of the car, turning to his companions, spreading his arms, and smiling excitedly and proudly, "Welcome to my turf~."
This phrase, 'my turf,' didn't just mean that he often came here to play and was experienced enough to be a guide.
Literally, Stark also had investments in Las Vegas, and not a small number. For example, the magnificent hotel standing before them... Although he bought it at the time to have more fun and freedom, it was undeniably an asset under Stark's private ownership.
"I can't wait to lie down on a big bed," Rhode said with a stretch and a smile, "Mr. Stark, give me a king-sized room with a Jacuzzi."
He was treating Stark like a lobby manager responsible for receiving guests.
"No problem," Stark didn't mind at all, snapped his fingers, and walked ahead with an air of nonchalance, "I arranged everything on the way here."
Stark himself and Pepper Potts checked into the 'King Suite,' which was only open to the owner.
Not the Presidential Suite? But called the King Suite?
Well, just by the name, you could tell it must have been named by the proud and narcissistic Stark. Given his personality, it wouldn't be surprising for him to say something like, 'This is my hotel, and I am the king here.'
Shi Xiaolei's family was arranged in the 'Duke Suite,' which was equivalent to a presidential suite in other hotels... Obviously, this name was also derived from the King Suite.
As for Rhode and Happy.
According to Stark's initial intention, he planned to arrange the 'Ambassador Suite,' suitable for solo travelers, for the two of them. However, thinking that since they were staying in a hotel, there were plenty of staff to call upon, and Happy didn't need to follow him constantly, Rhode proactively suggested changing rooms. In the end, he and Happy, who was temporarily free, checked into a twin room closest to the casino.
That's right, this hotel also had a casino. In fact, it was because Stark lost a lot of money here one day a few years ago and felt very frustrated that he bought this hotel in a fit of pique.
After that, because Stark said, "Since it's mine, it must surpass others," various parts of the hotel, including the internal casino, underwent two more upgrades and renovations. To this day, this hotel, named Golden Coin by Stark, has become the most famous check-in spot in Las Vegas.
Good food, good fun, good sights—it had everything. It was a rare visit, and he didn't even have to pay, so Rhode naturally wouldn't miss such a good opportunity. As for Happy, he was actually just a companion he found for himself... He didn't think that Shi Xiaolei, who had his family with him, or Stark, who had Pepper by his side, would take the time to accompany him to the casino for a round... Three hours later,
After dinner in their rooms, Rhode and Happy went to the casino together.
They had just finished exchanging chips with the slip signed by Stark and hadn't decided what to play first when they suddenly saw two very familiar figures.
"Hmm?" A little surprised, Rhode raised his hand and patted Happy, who was also holding a small box of chips, pointing into the crowd: "Happy, look over there. That's Locke and Bayonetta, right?"
Both were facing away, so their faces weren't visible. Plus, the man was wearing a suit, and the woman was in an exquisite and glamorous evening gown, so no matter how they looked, they couldn't match the impression left over the past ten-odd days.
However, after a few seconds of careful observation, Happy still nodded: "It should be them. So tall, and together like that, I can't think of anyone else besides them."
One was over two meters tall, the other... with heels, was also 1.9 meters. Aside from the possibility of 'Shi Xiaolei and Bayonetta,' perhaps only a combination of a basketball player and a professional model could fit the bill.
But a typical basketball player wouldn't have Shi Xiaolei's sturdy physique, and a typical model wouldn't possess Bayonetta's enchanting charm.
Just from their backs, they thought there was no one else, but upon closer inspection, they were indeed correct.
Looking at Shi Xiaolei and Bayonetta with some surprise, Rhode asked curiously, "How did you two get here?"
"Sister Bay wanted to come," Shi Xiaolei explained, pointing his thumb over his shoulder at the smiling Bayonetta, a hint of helplessness in his voice: "You know, with her level of attractiveness, if she didn't have someone to accompany 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 have a good time, so I had no choice but to accompany her."
"Indeed," Rhode said, looking her up and down. Because of Bayonetta's current attire, a hint of intoxication unconsciously appeared in Rhode's eyes: "If it were me, seeing Bayonetta like this, I would definitely go up and hit on her without hesitation. Bayonetta, honestly, you're absolutely stunning~."
"Agreed," Happy also concurred: "At two o'clock, there are a few young people looking this way. If I'm not mistaken, they must be captivated by Bayonetta."
"So I chose the right one, didn't I?" Bayonetta smiled.
"Of course."
"One hundred percent right."
After greeting each other, the four went into the casino together.
"No matter what it is, it's about taking it step by step. For now, it's better to play something with simple rules and smaller stakes," As an old hand, Rhode naturally took the lead. While explaining, he led the three to a roulette table: "Once you've warmed up and gotten used to the casino atmosphere, and your luck has simmered enough, then you can try more exciting games. I always do this; I start by playing a few rounds of roulette when I first come in."
He spoke as he joined the game. Casually placing his chips on a slot, Rhode's eyes lit up with excitement: "This is my lucky number; you pick one too."
"A lucky number? Then I'll choose this one," Bayonetta reached out, picked two chips from the box Shi Xiaolei was holding, and gently placed them on the table.
"13? Are you sure?"
"No other number suits me better than it."