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“Speaking of which, I don’t believe I ever properly introduced myself. I’m Draven, proud owner of the Black Star Casino’s restaurant and entertainment venues.” He extended a large hand.
“A pleasure to meet you,” I replied, clasping his hand. His warm, firm grip sent a tingle up my arm. Our handshake lingered perhaps a beat longer than appropriate before I reclaimed my hand, hoping my flustered state wasn’t obvious.
Clearing my throat, I met his mesmerizing amber eyes. “So, you really think I can handle decorating your gala?”
“I have every confidence in your abilities,” Draven assured me with a devastating smile. “Now, shall we discuss the details?”
Within minutes, we stood inside the lavish casino. I gaped in awe, having only ever glimpsed its exterior before. Gleaming rows of slot machines and gaming tables stretched as far as I could see. I didn’t miss how the staff straightened respectfully at Draven’s entrance, doubly so when his intense gaze settled on them.
“Now, we’ll have some of your arrangements displayed here in the casino and restaurant wings,” Draven explained, guiding me through the crowds. “But the majority will be in our ballroom for the gala.”
I gave him an incredulous look. “There’s a ballroom, too?”
He chuckled, steering me toward a nondescript side door veiled by a curtain. “Indeed, it’s used mainly for private events. I think you’ll be impressed with the space available for your floral masterpieces.”
Draven whisked back the curtain with a flourish, ushering me into a positively cavernous room beyond. My jaw dropped as I took in the soaring ceilings and expansive dance floor. Floor-to-ceiling viewscreens lined the far walls, currently displaying hypnotic nebulae swirling through space. For a moment, I almost imagined we were adrift among the stars.
Workers milling about prepping the space jumped to attention at our entrance, industry doubling under Draven’s watchful eye. The ballroom was in a state of controlled chaos, tools and boxes of decor everywhere. But I already envisioned the huge surfaces available to decorate however I pleased.
“As you can see, you’ll have no shortage of space to highlight your work,” Draven commented, clearly pleased with my reaction so far.
I laughed giddily. “I just hope my arrangements can live up to the grandeur of this place!”
He led me over to a sad discarded pile of flowers, handing me a limp bloom. Our fingers brushed, sending a spark up my arm. I prayed my blush wasn’t visible through my freckles.
“Our previous supplier was clearly inadequate.” Draven’s lip curled derisively. “This one’s nearly dead already.”
I examined the wan, wilted petals critically. “Yes, it has only hours left at most. With proper care though, blossoms can make all the difference.”
Draven nodded decisively. “I’ll be frank, Elara. For this gala, I expect only the finest, most elegant arrangements money can buy.”
His praise made my heart flutter, but the intensity of his gaze was almost overwhelming. I wondered briefly if his charming demeanor hid something more dangerous beneath the surface. He clearly wielded immense influence here, more than just a restaurant owner...
Banishing my doubts, I met his stare evenly. “I promise you’ll have the most stunning decor ever seen on Thodos III.”
A hint of surprise flickered in Draven’s eyes, followed by a crooked smile that made my knees weak all over again.
“Of that, I have no doubt. Now,” he purred, “show me what you’ve got.”
With the ballroom staff’s help, Draven projected my portfolio across a large floating holographic screen. While he reviewed my work, I tried unsuccessfully to rein in my soaring excitement. I still couldn’t believe this tremendous opportunity fell into my lap.
“As you can see, I’ve worked mainly smaller events before—birthdays, memorials, some business openings,” I explained as Draven scrutinized the images. “The restaurant across from my shop was the largest project so far.”
“These flowers are remarkable. Some I’ve never even seen on Thodos III,” he mused. His penetrating gaze met mine. “You clearly know your trade exceedingly well, Elara.”
Heat rose to my cheeks at his praise. I smoothed back an errant curl self-consciously. “Well, what can I say? Flowers are my passion.”
Draven’s eyes crinkled with amusement. “Admirable to see someone who appreciates flowers seriously. This casino is my greatest creation, so naturally every detail of the gala must be flawless.”
I smiled in understanding. “Of course. I assure you I’ll do everything possible to fulfill your vision.”
For a long moment, his piercing eyes searched mine intently. I held my breath, pulse racing. Everything about this fascinating man left me captivated.
“I must say, I’ve never worked directly with a human before,” Draven remarked. “You’re quite delightful to collaborate with.”
I exhaled in relief, touched by his words. “Well, I find I can talk to almost anyone who’s friendly.”
“In that case, there’s something I want you to know.” Draven moved closer, voice dipping low. I leaned in, pulse quickening. What secrets might he divulge?
