Page 72 of Reckless Chance
I shake my head. That can’t be. This isn’t a thriller movie where my efficient, dedicated assistant turns out to be a villain. Emily’s only trying to help. Besides, she doesn’t have any connection to the Rossi family, and clearly, they must be behind this one way or another.
38
LOWRI
With my arm laced around Sean’s, we walk into Pinot & Pie for the soft opening. Tonight Cassie is hosting a reception and dinner as a test run before the real opening.
I’m stunned, which is surprising given that I’ve already seen the remodeled space. It was magnificent when I had lunch here with Cassie. Now it’s reached another level, if that’s even possible. In the dim lights, the purple, gray, and cream décor have a royal vibe. It’s befitting of my best friend’s soon-to-be princess status.
“Sean, this place is even more spectacular in the evening. It’s perfect.”
“I’m pleased with the result. We were aiming for a regal, modern look.”
“Mission accomplished. It’s very Cassie. Everyone’s going to love it. Do you see Cassie and Evan? I should congratulate her.”
“She’s on the far side, surrounded by people. Let’s give her time to get through the initial greetings. Then she’ll have time to talk. We can grab a drink and try out the appetizers while I thank the guests who received special invites from me.”
“Lead the way.”
Music and electric energy fill the air as we mingle among the guests dressed in shimmering cocktail dresses and tuxes. Sean said that everyone accepted their invitations to attend. Who wouldn’t? They’ll forever be sharing stories about the evening that a future princess was their chef. That will be a unique brag for years of cocktail parties to come.
As we slowly make our way around the bar area, Sean shakes hands and introduces me to more people than I could possibly remember. I smile and make small talk, but my mind is on Cassie. This year has been transformative for her. She’s gone through such an unexpected metamorphosis from burned-out lawyer to chef to a future princess in a few months.
Her life sounds like the plot of a romance novel, but it’s real. I’m ecstatic for her. After losing her parents the weekend of her law school graduation, she’s had a tough time. She deserves happiness and security. Everyone does.
A waiter offers us champagne. The rims are dipped in crushed, freeze-dried raspberries, which is one of Cassie’s favorite tricks to add a little extra splash to the presentation.
A guy approaches us, slapping Sean on the back, saying, “Hey there. It’s great to see you.”
“Wes, I’m glad you could make it. Lowri, meet my friend, Wes. He owns one of the best food and beverage distributorships in Las Vegas. He’s responsible for sourcing the ingredients that Cassie is using tonight.”
“It’s great to meet you. I suspect you’re one of Cassie’s favorite people if you procured the items she wanted,” I say.
“She’s amazing to work with. It’s been a pleasure. Try these crostini,” Wes insists, signaling for a passing server to stop.
Taking a bite, my mouth is filled with a lovely mixture of textures and flavors. “These are phenomenal.”
“They should be. Cassie insisted on fresh figs for homemade preserves, the best whole-milk ricotta, imported Italianprosciutto, and a delicate lavender honey from France. We’re nearing the end of fig season, so it was a challenge to find the quality she wanted, but we did.” Wes says.
“I’m glad you succeeded. When Cassie moves to Catalinius, I’m going to miss her showing up at my parties with her creations like this,” I say.
“I bet,” Wes comments.
Sean has already checked out of this conversation, which is strange. He’s been a little off all evening. Nudging him and turning to his friend, I say, “Wes, forgive us. We need to find Cassie and Evan.”
“Yes, excuse us, Wes. Thanks again for being here,” Sean says, taking the hint and moving us along.
When we’re out of earshot, I ask, “What’s wrong? Why are you scanning the crowd? Is someone missing?”
“Nothing’s wrong. One of my guests, Mr. Simon, is supposed to have information about which of my employees was meeting with Rossi’s guys. I’m also hoping Mr. Simon can shed light on what involvement the Rossi guys had in Mr. Brentwood’s death. I can’t find him though.”
“What does he look like? I’ll help you look for him.”
“That’s the problem. He’ll be in disguise. He doesn’t want to be recognized.”
“What’s the plan then?”
“He’ll be wearing a signet ring and should approach me. I’m impatient though. We need answers.”
