Page 17 of One Weekend in Sydney

I shake my head. The last thing I want to do tonight—this weekend—is think of Mason.

As I walk towards the Dome, I see Romeo chatting with another guy wearing a shirt that saysSecurity. He doesn’t look my way at all. Would it be hypocritical of me to say that I’m disappointed he hasn’t tried to flirt with me again? Yes. At the same time, I respect that he’s being very professional. How’s that for being conflicted?

Anyway, it looks like this is the end of our short time together. I should now focus on enjoying A Musical Night in Masquerade.

My heart feels heavy with disappointment. Maybe we’ll still bump into each other again later?

I shouldn’t expect it.

I enter the Dome, recorded music filling the air with a lively melody. Elegant decor adorns the walls of this massive room with a circular ceiling, and a stage is positioned right in the middle for the multi-act concert later. Guests in elaborate masks and costumes are milling around, and the place gives off an air of mystery—and fun, which I should be trying to have.

Navigating through the bustling crowd, I follow the directions to the adjacent exhibition hall where the dining area is located. “Feel free to sit anywhere you want,” the person checking my VIP ticket says. “And enjoy the night.”

“Thank you,” I respond, feeling the nerves creep in. I have no idea what to expect, so I’m just going to commit to making the most of it.

The tables are filling up with what seems like groups of friends. Is there a table for single attendees?

I go to a table where the guests don’t seem to know each other. I sit down, exchanging pleasantries with the people around me. They all seem nice and rather nervous as well.

Just as I start to relax into the conversation, a man in a dark green domino mask like Robin’s from Batman and Robin sits next to me. Apart from the mask, he’s not in a costume—unless he considers his navy blue button-up shirt and jeans ensemble a masquerade outfit. He gives me a warm smile.

“Hi there,” he says, his voice smooth and inviting. “I’m Arpi. And might I say, you look absolutely stunning tonight.”

I offer a polite smile. “Thank you, Arpi. I’m Juliet.”

He gives me a cheesy grin. “Juliet. So, why’s a beautiful lady like you attending an event such as this all by your lonesome?”

I fidget with my mask, trying to keep the conversation light. I’m getting cringey vibes from him. “How do you know I came by myself?”

“Well, I saw you sit by yourself, and you didn’t tell me this seat next to you is taken.”

He has a point. “I’m just here to enjoy some good food and amazing music,” I say casually.

Arpi chuckles, his gaze lingering on me a little too long for comfort. “I hope I can add some excitement to your evening.”

I let out a small laugh, feeling the tension rise in my chest. “That’s very kind of you. But I’m fine. I’mreallyjust here to enjoy some food and music.”

“Really?” he asks with scepticism. “Well, that’s okay. I came by myself, too. It would be good to have someone to chat with for the night. Where are you from?”

“New South Wales.” I hope he takes the hint that I’m not willing to give him any more details about myself.

“So am I, and it’s a big state, isn’t it?”

“It sure is.”

He laughs. “Okay, I get it. You want to remain anonymous. That’s fine. I won’t push.”

That earns him a smile from me. “Thank you.”

Arpi turns his attention to the guy sitting on his other side, and I breathe a sigh of relief. With the woman next to me also talking to someone else, I’m left sitting quietly while we start getting the first of our three-course meal. I totally don’t mind. I feel more comfortable this way, where I can just relax and observe the goings on in peace while I enjoy some delicious food.

I’m constantly looking around for Romeo, though. But amidst the sea of masks and costumes, he’s nowhere to be seen. Disappointment tugs at my heart, but I push it aside.

Arpi turns to me again and says something inaudible, the loud music drowning out his words.

“Sorry, I didn’t hear you.” I point to my ear as I shake my head.

He leans in real close, his cologne overpowering my senses. “I said, did you enjoy your chicken?”

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