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Tables were adorned with crisp white linens and delicate, flickering candlelight, while classical music played softly in the background, adding to the ambiance of refined luxury. The aroma of exquisite cuisine wafted through the air, promising a delightful culinary experience within this oasis of sophistication.
Ariel, Clay’s wife, leaned forward, her curiosity evident in her expression. "So, Christian, Casey, how long have you two been together? And, if you don't mind me asking, when is the big day?"
I felt a knot of unease form in my stomach, knowing that we were weaving a complex web of deception. I turned to Christian, silently conveying my readiness to respond to Ariel's questions.
Christian chuckled, his smile genuine as he played his part. "We've been together for a little over a month now, and the wedding is planned for next summer."
I nodded in agreement, my gaze locked with Christian's.
“A month? Wow.” Ariel raised her eyebrows.
“When you know, you know.” I chuckled and shrugged. Ariel smiled.
“Well, I think that’s romantic.” Ariel rested her hand on Clay’s. “We’ve been together for 8 years and counting.”
Clay smiled. “And counting,” he repeated.
Ariel, with genuine curiosity, inquired further. "It sounds like you both have big plans. How did you decide to get into this together?"
Christian exchanged a quick glance with me, a silent understanding passing between us before he spoke. "Well, you see, Ariel, Casey and I have known each other for a long time. We've been best friends since high school and share a deep connection. When I bought the ranch, I knew it was a huge responsibility. But Casey was there to support me, and we realized that this ranch could be more than just a place. It could be our shared dream."
Ariel's eyes shone with interest as she responded, "That's a beautiful story. It's like something out of a romance novel."
I smiled politely, trying to mask the unease that the conversation stirred. Despite the enchanting tale Christian had just spun, the truth of our situation loomed over us like a shadow. But for the sake of the ranch and the engagement ruse, I played my part, nodding in agreement.
“What are your plans for the ranch house?” Clay had switched to business conversation.
Christian leaned forward, a sparkle in his eyes as he talked about the ranch house and his ambitious plans. "I'm planning to renovate the ranch house, maintain the character, and make it a welcoming place for guests. We're also looking into introducing some eco-friendly practices, like solar panels and sustainable agriculture."
Clay nodded, impressed. "That sounds fantastic. Moab could use more sustainable projects like that."
As they delved into the details of Christian's vision for the ranch house, I couldn't help but admire his passion and charisma, even if the entire engagement was a façade. He truly was passionate about the house.
After a delicious meal, Ariel's suggestion for a post-dinner drink was met with enthusiasm from everyone. She turned to me with a warm smile. "Casey, would you like to join us at the bar?"
I nodded, feeling grateful for her company during the awkward charade. "Sure, I'd love to."
As we stepped out of the restaurant and into the crisp evening air, Ariel turned to me, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "You look stunning in that dress, Casey. It's a perfect choice."
I blushed and smiled, appreciating her kind words. "Thank you, Ariel. Your taste is impeccable, and your hospitality has been wonderful tonight."
Christian and Clay exchanged a nod, seemingly pleased with how the evening was progressing. With polite smiles, we all made our way to the nearby bar, bracing for whatever the night might bring.
We found a cozy corner in the dimly lit bar, and Ariel ordered a round of drinks for all of us. As the evening progressed, conversation flowed more naturally, making the fake engagement feel like a distant memory. We shared stories and laughter, gradually relaxing with the rhythm of the evening.
“Thank you,” Clay hung up the phone. “My driver is coming to take us home.” Then with a mischievous glint in his eye, signaled the bartender for shots. As the fiery liquid arrived in small glasses, he raised his own, grinning. "To the happy couple!" he toasted, and we all clinked our glasses and downed the shots. The burning sensation left me with a mixture of exhilaration and apprehension.
Ariel and I excused ourselves to visit the ladies' room, she turned to me with a knowing smile. "You know, Casey, I'm surprised to see Christian drinking tonight. Back in the day, he would always have a bottle in each hand."
I glanced at her, my curiosity piqued. "Really? I never knew he used to drink that much."
Ariel nodded as we entered the lavishly decorated ladies' room. The soft, warm lighting and delicate scents created an ambiance of elegance. She leaned against the counter, still wearing that mischievous smile.
“He dated my sister, Megan, for a few months after his grandmother died. He was going through a lot, at the time, but man.” She looked at her lipstick in the mirror. "He had a reputation, you know," she confided, her voice hushed. "We all did. We were quite the party animals in our younger years. But Christian... he was always the life of the party, the last one to leave, and never showing any signs of being affected by the alcohol."
I leaned in, intrigued by this revelation. "What changed?"
Ariel sighed, her expression growing thoughtful. "Oh, the wreck, for sure.” She fixed her hair in the mirror.
