LEO THE LION Generous, Creative, Confident and a PITA, not the Bread

By Taylor Sterling

It’s my Birthday so I decided to write about a humorous experience from a number of years ago when I decided to splurge to celebrate the day of my birth.

I know for sure that I have the right to remain silent however not the ability…

I decided to celebrate my 21st birthday by staying overnight in a 5 Star, luxurious hotel, however when I was checking out the next morning, the desk clerk handed me a bill for $2500. I demanded to know why the charge was so high. The clerk tried to explain all the amenities, albeit I did agree however it was not worth $2500 for just a one-night stay – I explained that I had not availed myself of their petit déjeuner (breakfast in French). The clerk explained that $2500 is the ‘standard rate,’ and breakfast had been included had I ordered it. I requested a tête-à-tête with the manager, who I insisted come front and center tout suite (very fast in French). I revert to French when my ire is raised. When this dapper, well-dressed gentleman appeared at the desk I overheard the clerk forewarning him. The manager introduced himself and began stating a case for the $2500 rate for the evening. He quietly stated that the hotel has a pool in the room, butler service and a huge conference center which are available for use. I again stated that I did not use any of the amenities. His response was that they were available, and I could have availed myself of all the benefits. He also added that I could have also been privy to the exclusive shows and stated that they had the finest entertainers from all over the world performing there. I explained that I did not go to any of the shows and the manager’s response was “well, that was your decision, you could have.” Every amenity the Manager mentioned, my response was the same, I did not use any of them. After several minutes of back and forth, the Manager was still unmoved, so I wrote a check and gave it to him. He looked shocked when he saw the amount and said, “But Madam, this check is for only $50.00″ “That’s correct,” I said… “I charged you $2450 for sleeping with me.” His reply was “But I didn’t sleep with you madam!” My reply….”Well, that’s too bad, I was here, and you could have.”