Page 30 of Caffeine & Chaos

“Yeah, his factory is actually located in Hialeah,” Ryan said, amused with her enthusiasm.

“Really? I didn’t realize that Miami could attract that caliber of designer.”

“Miami is apparently becoming quite the up-and-coming fashion city according to the blogosphere.” Ryan handed Nadia her glass that she had set down and encouraged her to finish it.

The limo pulled up to the curb, signaling their turn to get out.

“I’ll get out first, okay?” He waited for her to nod before continuing, “we’ll need to pause on the red carpet to allow the photographers to take a few pictures of us, just follow my lead.”

“Ryan, it’s not like I’ve never been photographed before. I’ve been to plenty of these kinds of events,” Nadia fibbed, attempting to downplay her nerves. While it was true she’d attended similar gatherings in the past, never had she been accompanied by someone likely to draw the press’s eager lenses and questions.

“I know, I know. Just remember what we talked about; stay clear of the topic of Markus.” Ryan opened the car door.

As Ryan’s head and shoulders vanished from view as he exited the vehicle, Nadia felt a rush of apprehension wash over her. She took a deep, steadying breath before inching towards the door. Moments later, Ryan’s head reappeared, his hand extended toward her, a silent invitation to join him in facing the awaiting spectacle.

Camera flashes erupted more intensely than Nadia had anticipated. Ryan wasn’t a movie star, for heaven’s sake. Yet, amidst the chaotic spectacle, Ryan squeezed her hand reassuringly and leaned in close, his lips brushing past her ear. “Smile,” he whispered.

Nadia realized she must have looked like a bewildered animal caught in headlights. She summoned a smile, focusing on playing the role Ryan desired: poised, radiant, and saying little—reminiscent of the stereotypical wives depicted in old television shows. She bristled at the thought.

Turning towards the cluster of photographers, Ryan enveloped her waist with his arm. Nadia held her clutch in one hand, while the other rested casually on her hip. They stood there, posing, smiling, and subtly shifting as the cameras flashed incessantly around them. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Nadia felt Ryan’s gentle touch, guiding her away from the paparazzi’s glare.

“Mr. McKellen, would you care to give us an update on the state of your former colleague, Markus Brown?” A reporter shouted as they neared the entrance.

Ryan turned back to face him, an instant hush falling over the crowd. A sea of hands holding voice recorders and smart phones were jutted towards him.

“Tonight is about the preservation of our beaches and environment. A cause that is very near and dear to my heart, as I am sure it is to all Miamians. Let’s not detract from this very worthy cause by making tonight about my troubled former colleague.” Ryan smiled as more flashes went off and a few of the reporters applauded.

The lobby was a flowing mosaic of black, white, and vibrant splashes of color as the assembled guests mingled and conversed. Each person exuded an air of exclusivity, undoubtedly members of Miami’s elite social circles.

“You have an incredible talent for turning people around in record time.” Nadia smiled at him. “One short speech and you had those reporters eating out of the palm of your hand.”

“I ought to be damn incredible at that, or I am in the wrong business.” Ryan said, nodding and smiling as an older gentleman approached them.

“Vern,” Ryan reached out and shook the man’s hand. “Nice to see you again. How is Margaret doing?”

Nadia waited patiently as they engaged in polite conversation, offering nods and smiles at the requisite moments. She had nearly forgotten how dreadfully dull these formal gatherings could be.

“Nadia, this is Vern Tucker. He is the Chief of Surgery at South Miami hospital.”

“Pleased to meet you, Mr. Tucker.” Nadia offered Vern her hand.

“Charmed to meet you, my dear,” Vern exclaimed, pressing a kiss to her outstretched hand before turning to Ryan. “Where on earth have you been hiding this delightful young woman?” His laughter echoed deeply, booming through the room.

“This is Nadia Moore. She is still relatively new to Miami.” Ryan smiled affectionately at her.

“Well, my dear, you’ve certainly chosen an outstanding host to guide you through the city!” Vern remarked, gesturing towards a woman across the lobby. “You’ll have to excuse me. It was lovely to meet you dear. It is so nice to see Ryan bring a date for once.” With that, Vern hurried across the lobby to greet the woman he had beckoned.

“For once?” Nadia’s eyebrow was cocked upwards in disbelief.

“He’s exaggerating. I have only come alone a few times to these kinds of things,” Ryan said, leading her towards the bank of elevators.

As they passed by, Nadia paused to admire the elegant simplicity of the front desk. The entire structure had been crafted from the roots and trunk of a massive deciduous tree, showcasing its natural beauty.

“Isn’t it stunning?” Ryan remarked, his hand gliding along the smooth surface of the desk. “Rumor has it, it was crafted from a colossal piece of driftwood that washed ashore during the hotel’s construction. Almost everything in here is repurposed, you know.”

“Which is why they chose this venue for the awards benefit,” Nadia said knowingly, as they entered the elevator.

A few moments later the doors parted to reveal the Terra Ballroom and Nadia found herself entranced by the expansive space before her. Adorned in a palette of light greys, whites, and silvers, the ballroom exuded an elegant ambiance. However, it was the seamless integration of natural and man-made elements that truly captivated her. The highlight of the room was the fashion show’s runway, which stretched out from a striking living moss wall, adding a touch of organic allure to the sophisticated setting.

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