Frosted Pleasures
Storm on the Horizon
Heavy snow was falling outside the ski resort, causing the guests to stay indoors. At the resort bar, Elio, the bartender, was busy preparing drinks. The clock read 3:00 PM, and it looked like the snowfall would last through the night. In the midst of this cozy atmosphere, a man with heavy steps approached the bar, his face full of anger.
Cassian
(standing in front of Elio)
Cassian
You’re the bartender here, right?
Elio
That’s right. How can I help you, sir?
Cassian
I’m a VIP guest, and the complimentary drink you gave me… was absolutely disappointing. Is this the standard you offer to guests like me?
Elio
I apologize for the inconvenience, sir. The complimentary drink is just a welcome gesture. If it didn’t meet your expectations, I’d be happy to prepare something more suited to your taste
Cassian
As a VIP, I should’ve gotten the best from the start. That drink tasted bland!
(snorting, crossing arms)
A few guests nearby started to take notice of the conversation. However, Elio kept his professional demeanor, even as the situation grew tense.
Elio
I understand your frustration, sir. There may have been a mistake on our part. Let me prepare something more to your liking
Cassian
This isn’t just about the drink. It’s about how this resort treats its VIP guests. Don’t you have higher standards?
(snapping)
As Elio was about to respond, a woman in a neat uniform walked up to them.
Amelia
Good afternoon, is there a problem here?
(smile politely)
Cassian
Are you the manager here?
(glaring at Amelia)
Amelia
Yes, I’m the bar manager. How can I help you?
Cassian
As a manager, you should be doing a better job training your staff.
Amelia
We apologize if anything wasn’t to your satisfaction. May I ask what the issue is?
Cassian
The issue is the complimentary drink I received! I’m a VIP guest, and that drink was way below standard. It’s embarrassing for a resort of this caliber!
Elio
Ms. Amelia, there may be a misunderstanding—
(trying to explain)
Amelia
Ah... I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience, sir. But just so you know, the complimentary drink is standard, but if you’d prefer something more special, we’d be happy to replace your drink. We have some exclusive options for our VIP guests
(cutting Elio off)
Amelia remained calm as she faced Cassian, while Elio tried to hold back.
Amelia
We have aged whiskey, premium cocktails made with the finest local ingredients, or perhaps imported champagne?
Cassian
None of that interests me. I want something more refined!
Amelia
Then, what would you like, sir?
Cassian
I want to see your storage room. I’ll pick a drink that meets my standards.
Amelia
I’m sorry, sir, but the storage room is only accessible to staff. It’s a resort policy
(taking a deep breath)
Cassian
Policy? So, you’d rather follow the rules than make sure a VIP guest like me is satisfied?!
Amelia appeared uncertain. Cassian glanced at Elio, who stood near the bar.
Cassian
Then let this employee take me. I’ll forget all about this if I get the drink I want!
After a moment of thought, Amelia finally agreed.
Amelia
Elio, could you take this gentleman to the storage room?
(looking at Elio, then sighing)
Elio stepped out from behind the bar, followed by Cassian, who was still visibly upset. They walked toward the storage room at the back of the resort. It was only one room away from the bar.
Cassian
Pick up the pace. My time is valuable!
Elio
The storage room is at the end of this hallway, sir. Not much further
(looking back, still friendly)
The snow outside, visible through the window, added to the silence of the moment. Elio opened the storage room door, letting Cassian enter first.
Elio
Please, sir. All the drinks are here. I’ll assist you if you need any recommendations
Cassian
Alright. Don’t disappoint me this time.
(eyeing the shelves of bottles sharply)
Trapped in the Cold
Elio stepped into the storage room after ensuring Cassian entered first. The room was filled with shelves neatly arranged with bottles of various brands of beverages, categorized by type.
Elio
Do you know what you’re looking for, or would you like a recommendation?
Cassian
I’ll take a look first
(gazing sharply at the shelves)
Cassian began browsing through the rows of bottles, while Elio followed quietly. Suddenly, the room went pitch black.
Elio
What’s going on...?
(pauses, turning toward the door)
Elio quickly walked toward the door to check. It was tightly shut, making the room feel even smaller.
Elio
The door... it’s locked
Cassian
Locked? How’s that possible?
Cassian rushed to the door and tried pulling the handle hard, but it wouldn’t budge.
Cassian
You have the key, don’t you? Open it now!
Elio
This door uses an automatic mechanism. Without power, it won’t open
Cassian
What?! So we’re trapped in here?! What kind of resort is this?!
(irritated)
Cassian started losing patience, stepping back with a frustrated scoff and clenching his fists.
Cassian
This is pathetic! Everything about this resort has been nothing but a disappointment!
Elio
We sincerely apologize, sir. This has never happened before. There must be a major issue with the power supply
Cassian
A major issue? And this top-tier resort doesn’t even have a backup generator?
Elio didn’t respond. Instead, he lowered his head briefly and walked toward a small window near the door.
Elio
Let’s see… maybe…
(peering outside)
But his expression immediately turned tense as he observed the situation outside. The entire resort was plunged into darkness, and a raging snowstorm blurred the view until only white was visible.
Elio
The entire resort... is out of power. And the storm outside… it’s intense
(turning back, face serious)
Cassian
So, we’re stuck here until the power comes back?
(exhaling deeply)
Elio
Looks like it. But I’m sure the resort staff is working to resolve this
Cassian
Sure? And how long will that take? Hours? All night?
(sarcastically)
Elio
We don’t have another option, sir. For now… we need to stay calm
The room grew darker with the sudden power outage, and a sense of unease filled the air. Amelia stood at the center of the bar, trying to reassure the increasingly restless guests.
Amelia
Ladies and gentlemen, please remain calm. We’ll find out what’s happening shortly. For now, I ask you all to stay here
Several staff members approached Amelia, awaiting her instructions.
Amelia
Check the main building. Find out what’s wrong with the power. We need to know if the generators can be activated
Staff Member 1
Yes, ma’am. We’ll head there right away
The staff left, and the room’s temperature slowly dropped. Amelia grew concerned about the guests’ comfort.
Amelia
What should I do? Without electricity and heating, the guests will surely feel uncomfortable
(thinking)
Amelia
Everyone, please gather blankets or anything that can help keep the guests warm. Also, bring candles and emergency lights. We can’t let them freeze in the dark
Staff Member 2
Right away, ma’am
Staff returned with blankets and candles to provide temporary lighting. Amelia moved through the bar, ensuring everyone was taken care of.
Guest 1
What’s going on? Is the power out?
Amelia
We deeply apologize for the inconvenience. It seems the resort is experiencing a power outage, but we’re investigating the issue and working to resolve it as quickly as possible
Moments later, the staff who had gone to the main building returned, their expressions serious, drawing everyone’s attention.
Staff Member 1
Ma’am, the entire resort has lost power. It looks like the storm damaged the electrical system
Amelia
Damaged? Can it be fixed now?
Staff Member 3
Unlikely. The weather outside is terrible, and the technicians need time to reach the source of the issue
Amelia
I see. Has there been any word from Mr. Harrison?
(sighing)
Staff Member 3
He’s working on a solution, but it’s doubtful we can fix this anytime soon
Amelia stood silently, contemplating the next steps. The temperature continued to drop, and a sense of unease grew among the guests.
At that moment, a tall man in a suit entered from the doorway, striding quickly toward Amelia with a firm expression.
Harrison
Amelia, I need a word with you
Amelia
Sir, what’s the update?
The man crossed his arms, his expression resolute.
Harrison
This storm is far worse than we anticipated and will likely persist until tomorrow. Additionally, repairing the power is nearly impossible in these conditions
Harrison
We need to ensure the guests stay warm and comfortable. For now, ask them to remain in their rooms. If anyone needs assistance, make sure our staff is ready
Amelia nodded, though the worry was still evident on her face. The freezing cold began to bite, and the blizzard outside raged on.
Harrison
Let’s secure the guests immediately
Harrison stepped forward and addressed the room in a firm but apologetic tone.
Harrison
Ladies and gentlemen, due to the extreme weather and the current power outage, we ask that you return to your rooms for your safety and comfort. The bar will be temporarily closed until the situation improves. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience
Harrison’s voice echoed through the dimly lit room, illuminated only by candles and emergency lights. Guests exchanged glances, some looking disappointed but none voicing complaints.
Guest 2
Ugh, I just ordered my favorite drink…
Guest 1
We don’t have a choice. Let’s just go back to our room
One by one, the guests began leaving the bar with somber expressions. Amelia calmly oversaw the process, ensuring everything went smoothly.
Amelia
Thank you for your understanding. If you need any assistance, please contact the front desk
Once the bar was empty except for Harrison, Amelia, and the staff, Harrison turned to Amelia with a thoughtful look.
Harrison
Amelia, we’re shutting down the bar temporarily. I want to ensure we can focus on helping the guests in the main building. All emergency supplies here will be moved there
Amelia
That makes sense. We need to prioritize the guests’ comfort
(nodding)
Harrison
Good. Make sure this bar is cleared out and join the other staff in the main building
Amelia looked at her staff, who were waiting for instructions. She knew this wouldn’t be an easy task, but they had to work together to handle the situation.
Amelia
Alright, everyone. Let’s close the bar now. Move all emergency supplies to the main building. After that, we’ll join the other staff to ensure our guests remain comfortable
Staff Member 1
Yes, ma’am. We’ll get right on it
Amelia watched as her team began working, moving the necessary items. Occasionally, she lent a hand, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Piercing Cold
Cassian paced back and forth, his expression full of anxiety. The dark and cold storage room only added to his discomfort. The rumble of the storm outside made the atmosphere even more tense.
Cassian
This is the worst resort I’ve ever been to! One misfortune after another keeps happening! Ugh, this is insane!
Elio stood in the corner of the room, trying to remain calm. His hand gripped his phone, its battery nearly dead. He focused on thinking clearly, searching for a way to endure until the power came back on.
Cassian
(stops pacing and stares at Elio)
Elio
(glances at Cassian briefly)
Cassian
What’s that supposed to mean?! Are you trying to teach me how to handle this situation now?!
Elio took a deep breath, trying to stay patient. He knew Cassian was frustrated, but the man’s arrogance was starting to wear thin.
Elio
Apologies, sir. I’m just trying to focus on finding a solution. This room wasn’t designed for people to stay in for long. It’s getting colder, and we need to endure until the power’s restored
Cassian
Then why aren’t you doing something?! You’re a resort worker, aren’t you? This is your job, not mine!
(crossing arms angrily)
Elio felt his patience wearing thin, but he restrained himself.
Elio
I understand you’re upset and angry. But I’m human too, sir. Please, help me think of a way out instead of just complaining
Cassian
What did you say?! Are you daring to give me orders now?!
Cassian pointed a finger at Elio angrily, seemingly forgetting that the man in front of him was the only one trying to help.
Cassian
You’re a resort worker. You should be showing respect to your guests! Not telling me what to do!
Elio finally couldn’t hold back his frustration. He turned around, his expression firm.
Elio
And you’re the most obnoxious guest I’ve ever had to deal with! Do you think whining like this is going to fix anything?!
Cassian
What?! You’re the most incompetent resort worker I’ve ever met! If you were better at your job, we wouldn’t be stuck here!
(snapping back)
Elio
Oh, so now it’s my fault?! If you hadn’t made all those ridiculous requests earlier, we wouldn’t even be in this room!
Their argument escalated, each hurling accusations at the other. The already-cold atmosphere seemed to freeze further under their heated exchange.
Cassian
You’re blaming me now?! I paid a fortune for this resort—I deserve the best service!
(steps closer, eyes blazing with anger)
Elio
And I deserve guests who aren’t this arrogant!
(glares back sharply)
Cassian stood fuming while Elio tried to steady his breath. Their heated argument had reached its peak.
Cassian
You think you’re somebody, huh?!
(shoves Elio roughly)
Cassian
With my power, I could have you fired in an instant!
Elio
Go ahead! I’m not scared of your threats!
(glares, shoving Cassian back)
Cassian was momentarily stunned, not expecting Elio to fight back. Furious, he shoved Elio harder.
Cassian
You’re way out of line! You don’t know who you’re dealing with!
Cassian kept moving forward, cornering Elio. Elio did not show the slightest fear, even though his body was now about to hit the cold wall behind him.
Cassian
I’m going to teach you a lesson—
(raises a hand to push Elio again)
Before Cassian could touch Elio, his foot slipped on something on the slick floor. He lost his balance and toppled toward Elio.
They both fell hard to the ground, with Cassian landing on top of Elio. Their lips accidentally met in a brief, shocking kiss.
Silence. Only the storm’s rumble outside filled the room. Cassian and Elio froze, both stunned.
Elio
What the hell?! Are you seriously taking advantage of the situation?!
(shoves Cassian off roughly)
Cassian
Me?! You think I wanted this to happen?! It was an accident, you idiot!
(snapping back angrily)
Elio
If you hadn’t been moving around recklessly, this wouldn’t have happened!
Cassian
You were standing too close! Don’t blame me!
(stands)
The two kept arguing, their voices echoing in the small room. But gradually, their shouting subsided.
They eventually fell silent. The room, once filled with anger, was now filled with awkward tension.
Cassian and Elio stood on opposite sides of the room, avoiding eye contact. The accidental kiss lingered in their minds, making them hesitant to speak.
The wine cellar room was getting colder. Elio began to feel the temperature prickling his skin. They had been stuck here for quite some time, and after the last argument with Cassian, only an awkward silence remained.
Elio finally got up. He knew they couldn't just stand still. The air was getting colder, and they had to find a way to survive.
Cassian
What... are you doing?
(glances at Elio, voice hesitant)
Elio
Looking for something to help us stay warm
(glances briefly, rummaging through boxes on a shelf)
Cassian
What do you mean?
(steps closer hesitantly)
Elio
There should be thick cloths here, used to wrap wine bottles from our suppliers. They’re warm enough. If I can find them, we can use them to keep ourselves warm
(sighs, turning slightly)
Cassian paused for a moment, looking at Elio who was busy searching through the boxes. There was a feeling of reluctance to help, but the cold air slowly made him rethink.
Cassian
Alright. I'll help you search
Elio
You? Want to help?
(looks at him for a moment with a surprised look)
Cassian
Don't get me wrong. I just don't want to freeze here
(grunts)
Elio smiled slightly, but did not respond. He just nodded, then went back to searching. Cassian started opening boxes on another shelf, though his movements were clumsy.
Cassian
So... that cloth can really keep us warm?
Elio
It's not like a blanket, but it's quite helpful. The cloth is thick, usually used to protect wine bottles from impact and extreme temperatures
(still busy searching)
Cassian
Why didn't I know about that?
(muttering under his breath)
Elio
Because you only know how to order wine, not how to store it
(smiles a little, glancing over)
Cassian
Tsk. In that case, hurry up and find the cloth
After a few minutes, Elio finally pulled something out of one of the boxes. A thick, dark gray cloth, looking worn but still quite usable.
Elio
Finally. This is it
(showing the cloth to Cassian)
Elio
There should be more. Look in the next box
Cassian was busy searching again. He started to feel a little more comfortable with Elio's presence, although the awkwardness still remained.
Cassian
Thank you...
(said quietly, almost inaudible)
Cassian
Nothing! Just keep looking
(clears his throat, pretending to be busy)
Elio smiled slightly. For the first time, the atmosphere between them felt a little warmer, even though the cold air still surrounded the room.
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