chandeliers in the lobby. Synthia looked up and the crystal shimmered with rainbows of bounced light. Given the sheer number of guests for the grand opening, it should have felt crowded, but the lobby still seemed expansive, yet somehow warm. Greek gods of old were carved into the expansive pillars lining both sides of the lobby, and a massive statue sat in the center with an ornate water fountain surrounding it. Thanks to the lights in the fountain, the water appeared a deep burgundy color. As if mimicking wine. Maybe the center figure was supposed to be Bacchus, the god of wine and intoxication. She snuck a glance over at Tristan and he grinned. Of course. This was exactly his kind of place. There was an energy and a humming vibe of life that probably spoke to someone like him.
There were several sitting areas decorated with understated opulence. The furnishings were modern and simple, but the rugs were Aubusson and as decadent as the hotel’s name would suggest. The clientele was classy, wealthy. Clearly had money. But they were young. Tallying the average age of the guests milling around the lobby, she would have said no more than thirty-five. They were young with disposable income. These were not the young family types, though. More like young professionals looking to unwind.
Bella Bliss really had pulled out all the stops to get the lowdown on her competition. Syn and Tristan had VIP access to tonight’s opening of Excess Club and Lounge. Synthia had never been to Las Vegas before and even she had heard buzzing of the new, about-to-be-it bar. Rumor was tonight’s event was supposed to be star-studded with movie stars.
Synthia wasn’t usually one for parties, but she was actually looking forward to it. If she was lucky, she might have a celeb sighting. Xia would be pea green with envy. Not her thing, personally, but she told herself she owed it to her sister to at least try to enjoy the experience even though she was stuck with Tristan.
At the check-in desk, she handed over her ID. All she wanted was a hot bath and a chance to get to work in some peace and quiet. First things first, she’d ask for a tour of the rooms, then get a hold of the concierge and make nice. She already had her cover story. Looking for an upscale bachelorette weekend venue. That should get her access to all the ballrooms and conference rooms.
The pretty blonde behind the reception desk smiled at her warmly. “Welcome to Decadence. I hope you enjoy your stay here.”
“Thank you.” She smiled. “I’m sure I will.”
From beside her, Tristan stared. “Is that a Synthia Michaels smile? I’ve heard tell of such a thing, but you know I’ve never experienced it for myself, you see.”
“I smile. Just not at you.”
He just laughed.
The blonde handed over her keys. “There are two keys in here for you and Mr. Dawson. If either of you should lose these, just come back to the front desk and we’ll replace them free of charge. Since your room is one of the penthouse suites, you’ll take the private elevator, located...”
Synthia blinked. “Wait a minute, did you say the keys for me and Mr. Dawson?”
The blonde nodded.
She shook her head vehemently. “Oh no, there must be some mistake.”
On this, she and Tristan were united. He dropped his voice low and leaned forward. The poor girl behind the counter didn’t have a chance. Synthia knew how hard it was to concentrate with those electric-blue eyes pinned on you. “Now, what did you say your name was again?”
The woman licked her lips. “It’s, um, it’s Lisa.”
He turned the charm up a notch. “Pretty name. Listen, I think there’s been a mistake, Lisa.” The way he said her name sounded husky and seductive and the poor girl flushed bright red.
Synthia barely managed to refrain from hitting him. After all, her future rested on his ability to flirt their way into two rooms.
Lisa gave a nervous smile. “I’m sorry, but you’re booked in the south-facing penthouse suite. It’s got a great view of the Strip.”
He frowned and leaned in even more as if they were conspirators and he didn’t want anyone hearing their conversation. “I think we’re supposed to have separate suites.”
Lisa shook her head, wavy locks swinging over the shoulders of her jacket “I’m sorry. I wish I could move you, but it’s opening weekend. We don’t have anything else available.”
Not happening. Synthia needed space from Tristan, not more alone time. Alone time was trouble. He’d already gotten a glimpse of her emotions when he looked into her eyes as he’d helped her with the suitcase. He’d known then. No doubt he’d use it to his advantage.
The idea was to throw him off his game. Not the other way around. This was her chance to shine with her work.
She snatched the key off the counter with a smile. “Thank you for your help, Lisa.” She strode away as quickly as her heels would carry her. Maybe Tristan would get another room. Maybe he’d find some rich heiress to shack up with. All she knew was she was taking the best bed and the bathroom.
It turned out she wasn’t that lucky, because he followed closely on her heels. “Going somewhere, roomie?”
“Oh, I’m so sorry, Tristan. I thought you were headed for the fun. Some of us have to work.”
He slid into the elevator and swiped his key over the magnetic pad before pushing the sole button.
They both kept to their corners as they were carried up to their room. When the car dinged again, and the doors opened, Synthia froze. As the doors slid open, a gold and marble foyer presented itself. “Holy hell,” she whispered. Sure, she’d stayed at luxury hotels before, but the detailing was exquisite and there was a solitary sculpture located in the middle of the room that just screamed priceless.
Tristan whistled low. “Looks like Bliss wasn’t kidding about the VIP treatment.”
“I understand why it’s one suite now,” she muttered. The rest of the suite was decked with contemporary furnishings and modern art on the walls. The living room was the size of her whole apartment. Even the kitchen was extravagant. They had the latest appliances and the same marble from the foyer flowed into the kitchen detailing too.
On the far side of the living room, there was a large balcony with a pool view. “It’s beautiful,” she whispered.
At first he didn’t say anything, but she could feel him staring, so she met his gaze. He seemed puzzled.
“What?” She frowned.
He quickly shook his head. “Nothing. I’d never seen that look on your face before until today.”
“What look?”
“Wonder. It’s pretty stunning.”
With that simple statement, Synthia knew she was in more trouble than she’d bargained for.
Synthia adjusted the cap sleeves of the black dress and studied herself in the mirror again. Not bad. She’d styled her hair down, adding big voluminous curls. It gave her a sultry look. Her earrings were understated
