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Blair and I remain as we are until we reach the driveway for one of the two STEELE five-diamond resort and casino properties in the middle of the action.
When Sebastian told me about the property, I studied its layout to be certain it met the criteria for Lola’s Coterie Las Vegas. Penthouses on the top six floors act as a bridge to connect the two properties with the mall between them from the ground level to the third floor. Blair and I will stay in one penthouse.
She slides off my lap as the valet opens the sedan’s door. I follow her out and take her hand in mine. She glances up at me and squeezes it with a smile. I raise our joined hands and kiss her knuckles as we head towards the entrance. The bellhop follows with our luggage.
We walk through the ornate, but tasteful main lobby towards the private reception foyer for the twelve Bridge Penthouses designed to attract high rollers and the über-wealthy clientele. Various staff members smile in welcome. A few of the women give Blair the once over. They can’t compete with her beauty, so I don’t even bother to acknowledge their lust-filled stares. The center of my attention walks beside me.
We pause at the etched-glass double doors for the doorman to allow us entry into the separate foyer. Beyond are three reception and two concierge desks, four sitting areas, and a bank of three private elevators, each accesses two of the Bridge Penthouses in this tower. Blair looks up at the two intimidating security guards who flank the entrance as we pass. One of the two concierges greets us as we approach their desks.
“Good evening, Monsieur Montaigne, Ms. Thomas! Welcome to STEELE Las Vegas. Mr. Steele told us to expect you.”
She hands me an envelope with keycards. We thank her and walk to the elevators. The bellman opens the double doors and places our luggage in the foyer. I give him a tip, and he leaves.
“How amazing!” Blair enthuses at the breathtaking views of the Strip and the desert appear beyond the wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. She walks across the marble floor for a closer look.
I scoop her up before she gets far. She giggles and wraps her arms around my neck. I carry her to the bedroom. For the first time, I want to make love to her.
9
Blair
“Blair, darling, you’re glowing! Such a sparkle in your eyes and a flush to your cheeks. What’s happening in your life? A special love interest, perhaps? And here I wanted to tell you how His Grace asked about you the other day. He’ll have competition if my maternal instinct proves true.”
“And here I thought it was the pink color of your dress!”
My mother and Jillian smile at me expectantly.
I keep a straight face. But inside, my mind whirls and my belly churns. If I say I have a boyfriend, they’ll want details. If I deny their belief, it’s a lie. I hate that I’m in this position.
Fortunately, the server appears for our order.
I flew to London last night. It’s been some weeks being in New York City and time to check in on Lola’s Coterie London. Naturally, I want to spend as much time as possible with my family. My Mum and sister suggested High Tea and shopping—a favorite Girls’ Day for us.
Started by HM Queen Victoria when one of her ladies-in-waiting suggested a mid-afternoon meal to carry them over until the evening. Afternoon tea fast became a popular pastime for noblewomen to dine and to socialize, including to gossip. A tradition carried out by the women of my family for generations.
I glance around our preferred restaurant—Theatre Royal Drury Lane at The Lane Hotel. The Grand Saloon recalls the sumptuous teas of the glamorous Regency Era. The dazzling chandeliers, ornate ceilings, and beautiful furnishings with fine art strategically hung on the walls resembles grand rooms of British aristocratic estates.
While my Mum requests a selection of teas and sweet and savory bites with a bottle of rosé Champagne, I make my decision. To avoid drama, I’ll offer a wee white lie. Although Luc and I stated our commitment to one another a couple of weeks ago, I won’t make an announcement without him present. It’s best we’re together when we tell my family, especially my father.
After the server leaves, my mother and Jillian turn excited faces at me. I take a deep breath and smile.
“Sorry. Not quite what you think. I started a new regimen of vigorous activity followed by luxuriating baths.”
Not too far off since sex with Luc in various positions ends in us soaking in a bath filled with fragrant essential oils. The best activity ever.
They study my face, then glance at each other. Jillian shrugs.
“Well, dear sister, sign me up for the same.”
I sputter on a sip of water as color suffuses my cheeks.
“Are you all right, darling?” My Mum asks as she hands me a linen napkin with a colorful hand-stitched butterfly on it. “Catch your breath.”
I nod and hold the napkin to my mouth, avoiding her eyes.
The timely arrival of the server with our beverages distracts them from further comment. I change the subject by asking Jillian about the latest in her life. She claps her hands and goes on about Thomas Industries updates, her social calendar, and an upcoming trip to Lake Como in Italy.
I focus my attention on her. But from the corner of my eye, I notice my mother watching me. Her expression doesn’t reveal her thoughts. However, I force myself to not squirm under her scrutiny. I send a silent prayer she won’t push me for more information.
