After a drive of nearly four hours, the SUV finally left the ice sheet behind and entered a nearby city. Unlike the desolation of the Antarctic plains, this city, though also shrouded in cold, was filled with the warmth of civilization. Buildings of various sizes lined the streets, and occasionally, pedestrians in heavy winter gear hurried by, their faces etched with the familiar look of daily life.
The vehicle pulled up in front of a high-end hotel that Alexander had booked in advance. It was in a prime location with excellent security.
Sammie got out and opened her door. A wave of comparatively milder cold air washed over Danielle as she followed him into the bright, warm lobby. While Sammie went to the front desk to handle the check-in, Danielle stood by the window, watching the snowy street scene outside.
After getting the key card, Sammie escorted Danielle to her room. “Miss Crawford,” he said in a low voice, “call me anytime if you need anything. My room is right next door. Mr. Davidson’s orders were clear: I am not to leave your side until the storm is over.”
“Thank you,” Danielle said, taking the key card with a nod. “I appreciate it.”
Sammie simply gave a slight nod and turned to leave. Danielle opened her door and went inside. She quickly washed up to ease the fatigue from the journey and then eagerly picked up her phone to call home.
The call connected almost immediately, and her daughter’s sweet voice came through the receiver. “Mommy!”
“Niki, baby, did you miss Mommy?”
“Yes! I miss you so, so much!” Niki’s voice was thick with longing. “Mommy, did you get to Antarctica? Is it cold? Have you seen any penguins yet?”
“Mommy hasn’t made it to the research station yet. I’m in a city nearby, waiting for the weather to get better before I go,” Danielle said with a smile, not wanting to worry her daughter. “It is very cold here, but Mommy is wearing lots of layers, so I’m not cold at all. How about I take a picture for you when I see a penguin?”

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