Page 4 of Reckless Chance
My job has taken me to a fair number of high-end hotels, but my own butler—really? What do I do with one? After an awkward silence, I say, “It’s nice to meet you, Jenny. Forgive me, I’ve never had a butler before. I’m not sure what to expect.”
Jenny smiles, saying, “All our VIP suites include them. We take care of your unpacking, laundry, pressing, mail, stocking your food and beverages, placing room service orders for you, and coordinating housekeeping service. In other words, whatever you need related to your room and clothing, I will see to it. I’ve already unpacked your bags. I’ve also laid out the clothes that Mr. Cartwright had delivered for you to wear tonight. The accompanying note is on the dresser.”
Placing my hand over my mouth, I disguise my discomfort that she unpacked my lacey lingerie andpersonalelectronics. I’ve never been shy, but she’s a complete stranger. I’ll have to ask Cassie how she’s adapted to this life.
Not wanting to show my unease or appear unappreciative, I say, “Thanks for your help, Jenny.” Fortunately, I’ve had years of experience masking my internal reactions.
“If you need anything else, such as reservations for dinner, shows, or transportation, my team will take care of it for you. Just give us a call,” Christian says.
“Thanks,” I reply, and he turns to leave.
Jenny is still here. As I’m wondering if she is a permanent fixture in my suite, she asks, “Will you need assistance dressing for the evening?”
Is she kidding? Did I walk onto a movie set? Hiding my amusement and trying to adjust to my new surroundings, I say, “No, thanks. I’d like to rest now. It’ll be a late evening.”
“Of course. If you need anything, please text me. My number is on your bedside table,” she says as she opens the door to leave.
My shoulders drop as relief washes over me. A little privacy at last. Time for a shower and a quick nap before meeting Sean. Then it hits me, did Jenny say something about Sean sending me clothes for tonight? I run to the bedroom, anxious to see the surprise.
Does this mean Sean is reconsidering our ban on repeats too?
4
SEAN
Ascotch in hand, I’m leaning against the bar in the Adonis lounge when I sense her presence. Turning toward the entrance, my eyes lock with the seductive, mint-green ones staring back at me. I raise my glass slightly in recognition as my gaze moves over the rest of her body in rapt appreciation. Damn, she looks hot in the low-cut, cobalt-blue minidress. It shows off her long, slender legs and mouthwatering cleavage to perfection.
Setting my drink down, I walk toward where she’s already fending off others, who are practically salivating. There’s something about her energy and magnetism that draws virtually everyone to her at first sight. Reaching Lowri, I pull her in for a hug, whispering in her ear, “You look magnificent.”
“Thank you for the dress. I’m surprised you remembered my size,” she comments with a playful glimmer in her eyes.
“I remembereverything.It’s unfortunate that tonight will be spent planning the party for Evan.”
Chuckling softly, she says, “You’re moving fast with the charm. You haven’t even bought me a drink yet.”
“Excellent point,” I state, wrapping my arm around her waist and escorting her across the lounge to the sofa I’ve reserved in front of the small stage. As we sit, our dedicated server arriveswith a bottle of Cristal, presenting it for my approval. “Lowri, is champagne acceptable?”
“Champagne is always acceptable.” She smiles.
Raising my glass, I propose, “A toast to our love-blinded friends who, for better or worse, are heading down the relationship path.” We clink glasses and drink.
“Better them than us, right? I wanted Cassie to have a little fun in Vegas. I never expected her to decide she was in love. As we talked about last time, I can’t imagine being in a serious relationship at all. Who would have thought they would fall for each other so quickly? It’s only been about five months.”
“Their whirlwind romance caught me by surprise too. They appear happy, but their idea of bliss isn’t ours. Like you said, settling down is definitely not for either of us.”
“I couldn’t agree more. Regardless, we’re supposed to be planning this last-minute party. Christian said he handled the invitations. You and I are planning the entertainment and food. Is that correct?”
“Yes. In his email, Evan said that Cassie loves magic shows, so I’ve arranged for three magicians to audition for us tonight. We can select the best one for the party. How does that sound?”
“Entertainment and you for company will make for a perfect evening.”
“That’s only the beginning.” I wink at her.
“Confident, aren’t you?”
“Always.”
“Have you forgotten our no-repeat agreement?”
