Page 5 of Reckless Chance
“No, but let’s not dwell on that now.”
While we wait for the first act, we chat about changes I’m making to the hotel, her legal work, and Cassie and Evan’s lightning-fast romance. She’s starting to tell me about her plans for a cruise to Mexico when the lights dim further, and the emceeannounces that the Night of Magic will begin with Seymour the Great.
I cringe, and Lowri whispers, “Why does that name sound like a magic cat?”
Wrapping my arm around her shoulders, I pull her closer, remarking, “I don’t know. Based on the name, I doubt he’s the next David Copperfield.”
I’m not wrong. The act was trite. He pulls a rabbit out of a hat, makes a watch disappear, and levitates a playing card among other even less notable tricks. “Let’s hope the next performer shows at least a modicum of originality,” I say as we politely applaud.
“Fingers crossed,” Lowri says as the server refills our glasses and leaves a small bowl of nuts on the coffee table in front of us.
We watch Edwin the Magnificent bend a spoon, “magically” reattach torn pieces of a newspaper, and pour water into a hat, making the liquid disappear. “You must be kidding,” I murmur. “What was my entertainment director thinking when he chose these guys to audition for the prince’s party? It would be generous to call them average.” I groan, grabbing a handful of my favorite spicy cashews, crunching them in frustration.
“We still have one more. Let’s see how he does,” Lowri says as she squeezes my thigh, sending a ripple of warmth up my leg. Down boy. Not now.
Thankfully, the third performer impresses us.
As he leaves the stage, Lowri says, “He made the choice easy. What’s our next task?”
“Picking the location for the party. We could have it here, but the Olympic Torch Bar is likely a better choice. They should have appetizers and signature drinks ready for us to sample.”
“Let’s go. I could use something to eat after all that champagne. My head’s already buzzing.”
I could use food too. I don’t remember having anything for lunch.
With Lowri’s arm hooked through mine, we exit the lounge, walk past the Sportsbook, which is the Athena’s center for sports betting, and climb the Grand Staircase. Along the way, I enjoy the envious looks from onlookers wishing they were me.
We’re immediately escorted through the dimly lit Olympic Torch Bar where flickering seashell candles at the cocktail tables give the guests a warm glow. The doors are open to the balcony, where they roped off a private area for our tasting tonight. Guiding Lowri to the glass wall, we lean on the rail, gazing at the Aegean and watching hordes of people walk up and down the Strip.
“We’re here in time for the Olympic games. Have you seen the opening ceremony?” I ask.
“Not yet. You kept me busy with other activities the last time I was here.” She winks.
“I don’t remember any objections, but you can watch the show tonight.”
Within seconds, trumpets blare, brightly colored lights flash, and the outdoor Olympic stage on the left side of the Aegean lights up. A toga-clad couple light the torch on top of the Olympic Tower at the end of the outdoor stage nearest us to kick off the show.
We watch the performers reenact ancient Olympic games, mesmerizing the cheering crowd. My gaze darts back to her. The wind blows her hair forward, hiding those gorgeous eyes. I’ve resisted as long as possible. Reaching up, I gently push a loose strand behind her ear, letting my finger softly trace the outer edge. I feel her shiver next to me as I’m pulling my hand away. My smile broadens at her reaction.
Not wanting to push too fast, I turn back to the show.
When a pair of wrestlers topple into the water, Lowri asks, “Was that supposed to happen? Are they ok?”
“It’s all part of the act,” I say as a server arrives with a scotch for me and a French martini for Lowri.
“They make it look incredibly real,” Lowri says as we sink into the comfy swivel chairs at our table for two, sipping our drinks.
Our glasses are almost empty when Scott, the manager, approaches. His presence better mean that food is on its way because even I’m a little lightheaded at this point.
Scott says, “Welcome to the tasting. We have three signature beverages for you to sample, along with various appetizers for your approval.
“I can’t wait to try them.” Lowri beams giddily as a server approaches, depositing the first drink and appetizer onto the table.
“Let’s get started,” she says as she reaches for a cucumber cup filled with crab. Taking a bite, she moans, “Mmm. That is incredible. Cassie will love these.”
I stare at her moist lips and listen to her sounds of pleasure, wishing we were upstairs in my apartment. Then she lifts one of the cucumber creations, urging me to try it. Nudging it into my mouth, she brushes her finger across my lips, sending a shock of electricity through me. Lowri pulls her finger away quickly, leaving me to catch the appetizer before it lands on my lap.
“Sorry. It slipped,” she says, blushing slightly.
