In the story, a man checks into a hotel and explains that he needs a place to stay after a fight with his wife. The receptionist informs him that a $50 deposit is required for incidentals. After staying the night, the man requests his deposit back, but the receptionist demands an additional $100. She threatens to call his wife, claiming he spent the night with another woman, since she is listed as his emergency contact. The man panics and pleads with her not to call his wife, leading to a tense and potentially compromising situation. The story highlights themes of conflict, desperation, and blackmail.