Page 7 of Faking It with the Ice Queen

With all eyes on her, Elara looked toward Patty. “Yes, please proceed. We do not want any ill-fitting items, especially since we won’t have time for alterations.”

Grace walked toward the only pink item in the room, an elegant shift dress, and reached to pick it up. Patty stepped in front of her, interrupting Grace before she could grab the dress.

“Please undress behind the privacy screen. One of the associates will help you.”

Grace hesitated, her hand still hovering over the dress as if weighing whether to ignore Patty’s instructions. With a sharp exhale, she finally turned on her heel toward the privacy screen, her gaze flicking to Elara as if to sayI’m doing this for you.

After finishing at the boutique, Elara ushered Grace back into the car, bags piled in the trunk. The sleek black vehicle wound its way out of Sacramento, the city’s bustle fading behind them as they headed east toward Tahoe’s mountains. For the next two hours, the car was filled with the hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of shopping bags. Grace quietly scrolled through her phone, glancing every so often at Elara, who remained focused on her tablet, answering emails with a sharp tap of her manicured fingers.

Nestled against the pristine backdrop of Lake Tahoe, the resort never failed to impress, even after her countless visits. The driveway wound through meticulously manicured gardens, where in spring, vibrant bursts of wildflowers would mingle with carefully shaped shrubs, creating an enchanting welcome. But this was winter, Elara’s favorite time of year. The driveway wound through a winter wonderland, where thick layers of snow blanketed the ground and frosted the branches of toweringpines. Each flake glistened in the sunlight, creating a dazzling display that sparkled like diamonds.

As they glided past the glimmering fountains, now frozen in place, she marveled at how the sunlight caught the icy surfaces, casting shimmering reflections that danced across the ground. The main lodge loomed ahead, built from local stone and timber, harmoniously blending with the snow-covered mountains that surrounded it. Elara could almost feel the weight of her family's legacy resting on her shoulders, the responsibility both thrilling and daunting.

Pulling up to the valet, she caught a glimpse of guests bundled in elegant winter attire, sipping steaming mugs of cocoa and enjoying the crisp, cool air. She appreciated how the resort’s layout encouraged interaction while still maintaining the privacy that high-profile clientele expected. The staff moved gracefully among them, their uniforms reflecting the standard of excellence that Elara insisted upon.

By the time the car pulled up to the valet, Grace was nervously fidgeting with the hem of her coat while Elara stayed composed, her cool expression unshaken.

Once out of the car, she motioned for Grace to follow her, and they walked toward the entrance together. The lobby doors opened, revealing the warm glow inside. Elara breathed in deeply, the familiar scent of cedar and mountain herbs enveloping her like a comforting embrace. The lobby was just as she remembered—richly decorated yet welcoming, a space designed to make even the most discerning guests feel at home.

The towering stone fireplace dominated the room, flames flickering behind an artfully crafted iron screen, casting a soft golden light that danced across the walls. Wide terraces stretched out toward the lake, framed by towering windows that showcased a breathtaking view of snow-draped trees and the serene surface of the water. Plush seating arrangementsinvited relaxation, their deep burgundy and forest green fabrics blending with the dark wood floors, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

As she walked through the lobby, she exchanged discreet nods with the staff, each familiar face a reminder of the commitment she had to this place. Grace, trailing a few steps behind her, was wide-eyed, taking in every detail as though it was a magical new world. Elara could sense her wonderment, the contrast between them palpable—the one who had built this world and the one only visiting it.

To the right, a hallway led to the suites on the top floor, each designed for unparalleled privacy and indulgence. The dining room, visible through a side arch, was draped in velvet curtains and illuminated by crystal chandeliers that sparkled like icicles, reflecting the wintry landscape outside. The tables were set with fine china and silver, ready to host the evening's distinguished guests.

Elara felt the familiar weight of responsibility settle over her shoulders. This wasn’t just a place to admire; it was her family's empire, and every part of it reflected her choices and oversight. Even here, surrounded by grandeur, her mind was already moving to the next detail, the next challenge. She glanced over at Grace, who was still absorbing the surroundings, and a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. For all the pressure, there was something satisfying about showing someone new the world she managed so deftly.

“Welcome back, Ms. Silver,” a staff member greeted her with a respectful smile as they approached the front desk. Elara nodded in return, the acknowledgment of her presence a comfortable reminder of her authority here.

The receptionist politely smiled.“Welcome to Silver Resorts at Lake Tahoe. It looks like you two are checking in. Last name on the reservation?”

She was clearly a new hire and a young one at that. The girl looked barely twenty-one. Elara smiled, pleased that the staff were following protocol, even when they didn’t know she was around.

“Silver. Elara Silver. There will be several other Silvers arriving tomorrow.”

The receptionist’s eyes grew wide as she hurriedly typed Elara’s name into the computer, her fingers flying over the keyboard. “Oh, of course, Ms. Silver! I hope you enjoy your stay with us. Your suite is ready, and I’ve added a complimentary bottle of champagne for you and your guests.”

“Thank you. That’s very kind,” Elara replied, keeping her tone formal. The agent beamed, clearly thrilled to be helping a Silver.

After a moment, the girl handed Elara the key card, her hands trembling slightly. “Your suite is on the top floor, room 1201. Just take the elevator to your right.”

“Great, thank you,” Elara said. She turned to Grace. “Let’s go.”

Once inside the elevator, Elara kept her gaze forward. “From this moment on, it is crucial that we maintain the appearance of being a couple. Unless we are in the privacy of our suite, you must assume that eyes are on you.”

Grace nodded stiffly, her expression unreadable. “Understood.”

As the elevator doors opened on their floor, Elara stepped out first, heels clicking against the polished marble floor. She strode down the corridor with purpose, glancing back occasionally to ensure Grace was following.

When they reached their suite, Elara opened the door to reveal the elegant interior. A sitting room greeted them, adorned with plush furnishings and soft, ambient lighting, while large windows framed a breathtaking view of the snow-cappedmountains beyond. Off to the side, a doorway led to the bedroom and bathroom.

Grace hesitated before crossing the threshold, glancing around with an expression that suggested she was still assessing the situation. “This is…nice,” she said, her tone neutral and face revealing nothing.

Before Elara could respond, the sound of a discreet bell chimed as the staff elevator opened down the hall. A bellman appeared, wheeling a cart laden with their luggage.

“Welcome, ladies,” he said with a friendly smile, effortlessly maneuvering the cart toward them. “I hope your journey here was pleasant.”

Elara returned the smile, appreciating the bellman’s warmth. “It was, thank you.” After he unloaded the bags and placed them in the sitting room, she stepped forward and handed him a crisp hundred-dollar bill, the tip generous enough to elicit a look of surprise. “Thank you for taking care of our things.”

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