Chapter 11 #3
“I've been in this business for many years,” Vincent began, his tone measured. “I've seen countless connections form between clients and companions—some genuine, some illusory. The difficulty lies in distinguishing between the two, especially in an environment designed to foster intimacy.”
He paused, seeming to choose his next words carefully. “Theo is... special. He possesses a rare authenticity that makes him particularly vulnerable in this line of work. His background—”
“His brother,” I supplied, remembering what Theo had shared.
Vincent nodded, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. “Yes. His devotion to his brother is admirable, but it also makes him susceptible to forming deep attachments quickly. He sees the best in people, wants to help them, often at his own expense.”
The assessment aligned with what I'd observed in Theo, and it only made me want to protect him more fiercely. “I have no intention of hurting him,” I said firmly.
“I believe you,” Vincent replied, surprising me with his sincerity. “But intentions and outcomes don't always align, especially when complicated by vastly different life circumstances.”
He was right, of course. What future could there possibly be for a European duke and a companion from a small town in Florida? The very idea was absurd, a fairy tale with no basis in reality.
And yet, the thought of walking away from Theo, of never seeing him again, felt like a physical pain in my chest.
“What if I extended my stay?” I asked suddenly, the idea taking shape as I spoke it. “Another week. Would that change things?”
Vincent's eyebrows rose, the only outward indication of his surprise. “You wish to extend your reservation?”
“Yes. I find I'm not ready to return to Avaline just yet.” Not ready to leave Theo, was what I meant, but I kept that to myself.
“I see.” Vincent turned to his computer, typing briefly. “As it happens, your villa is available for the coming week. But may I ask what this has to do with your request regarding Theo?”
“If I'm staying longer, the consecutive booking policy becomes less relevant,” I pointed out, a hint of triumph in my voice. “I could see him again in a few days, after the required separation.”
Vincent studied me for a long moment, his expression now unreadable. Then he nodded slowly. “That would be within our guidelines, yes. Though I must caution you, Your Grace, about the nature of these types of... connections.”
“Meaning?” I prompted, a defensive edge creeping into my tone.
“Meaning that what happens at The Ranch is designed to stay at The Ranch. Our companions excel at creating memorable experiences, moments of genuine connection that feel real because they are real in the moment. But they are also professionals, and this is their workplace.”
I bristled at the implication. “I'm not under any illusions about the nature of the establishment, Mr. Stone.”
“Of course not,” Vincent agreed smoothly. “I meant no offense. I merely wish to ensure all our guests have the most satisfying experience possible.” He turned back to his computer. “I can process your extension now, if you'd like. And I can check Theo's schedule to see when he's next available.”
“Please,” I said, working to keep my voice even.
Vincent typed for a few moments, then looked up with a placid smile. “Your villa is now reserved for an additional week. As for Theo, would you like me to book him for you on his next available day?”
“Yes,” I said without hesitation.
More typing, then a nod. “Done. Is there anything else I can assist you with today, Your Grace?”
I stood, a strange mixture of triumph and unease swirling within me. “No, that will be all. Thank you for your assistance.”
“It's our pleasure to serve,” Vincent replied, rising as well. He hesitated, then added, “If I may offer one piece of advice, Your Grace?”
I nodded, curious despite myself.
“Whatever you're seeking here, be it pleasure, connection, escape—I hope you find it.” His expression softened.
“Just remember that what we create here, the connections, the intensity, exists in a carefully designed environment. The real world tends to be... less accommodating of such arrangements.”
The words struck uncomfortably close to the doubts I'd been trying to ignore. “I appreciate your concern,” I said stiffly. “But I assure you, I'm quite capable of managing my own affairs.”
Vincent inclined his head respectfully. “Of course, Your Grace. I hope the remainder of your stay is... enlightening.”
Something in his tone gave me pause, a kind of knowing quality that suggested he saw more than I was comfortable with. But I merely nodded, turning to leave with as much dignity as I could muster.
As I walked back toward my villa, I couldn't shake the memory of Theo's eyes when he looked at me, the vulnerability in them that seemed too raw, too genuine to be feigned. Or the way his body responded to mine, each touch, each kiss a confession neither of us was brave enough to voice aloud.
Was it possible that what was happening between us was real? That despite the transactional beginning, despite the vast differences in our worlds, despite all logical arguments to the contrary, we had found something authentic in each other's arms?
I didn't know. But I had bought myself another week to find out.
And for now, that would have to be enough.