Chapter 18 #2
“Are you kidding? You’re the talk of The Ranch, Theo.
You’ve got actual royalty wrapped around your—” Carter glanced down.
“Well, you know. Everyone wants a bite of that. Want to try the goods. But seriously, though,” he continued, his tone softening, “you’ll be fine.
You’ve got this charm about you. Just be yourself.
Well, the version of yourself that’s comfortable in this place, and you’ll do great. ”
His confidence in me made me feel better, especially coming from someone who had his shit together like Carter. “Thanks,” I said, not knowing what else to add.
As the afternoon wore on, the plaza dramatically transformed.
What started as a nice outdoor dining spot had turned into something magical—all these cool shadows and lights making everything feel sexy and fancy at the same time.
The lanterns hung overhead like some soft glowing ceiling, with spotlights hitting all the fountains and fancy architectural stuff just right.
Instead of boring straight rows, the tables were arranged in these little clusters that made it easy for people to talk or move around.
“They’ve outdone themselves this time,” Lance murmured, stepping back to admire our work. “This is going to be incredible once it's dark.”
I had to agree. There was something magical about the setting we’d created.
As we put the finishing touches on the decorations, Ibrahim and Vincent appeared at the plaza’s edge.
Vincent moved through the space with the confidence of a guy used to making things happen, nodding appreciatively at certain details while making minor adjustments to others.
Ibrahim followed a step behind, his dark eyes missing nothing.
My stomach did a nervous flip when Ibrahim's eyes met mine for a second. Was he thinking about our talk on professional boundaries? Since he caught me after visiting Ricard's villa, I'd been following every single Ranch rule to the letter, trying to show I wasn't a complete screwup.
“Excellent work,” Vincent declared, addressing us with a warm but assessing gaze.
“This is exactly the atmosphere we want to create for tonight’s event.
” He scanned the gathered companions. “Remember, we have several first-time guests joining us. Gentlemen who have heard about Dove Canyon but have yet to experience what makes us unique.” He paused. “First impressions are everything.”
Ibrahim stepped forward, his commanding presence drawing our attention.
“You’ll find your attire for the evening in your quarters,” he said, his deep voice projecting authority.
“Grooming standards have been discussed in yesterday’s briefing.
Report to the staging area by eight for final inspection and assignments. ”
There was a murmur of acknowledgment from the companions. Ibrahim's gaze met mine, and I felt a tightness in my chest, remembering our last chat about Ricard, wondering if he’d return.
Can you be too attached to a client?
But Ibrahim’s expression revealed nothing as he continued, “Some of you will be assigned to specific guests who have requested your company. Others will circulate, ensuring everyone’s needs are met.
” He examined us, his eyes narrowing. “Remember why our clients come here. They can get drinks and food anywhere. They come to Dove Canyon for exceptional experiences with exceptional people. Each of you was selected for something unique and valuable. Tonight is your opportunity to showcase that value.”
It was a straightforward approach. No pretense, no false promises, just a clear acknowledgment of the dynamics at play. I found comfort in that honesty, accepted my place as a companion, and prepared to walk this delicate line.
The meeting dispersed, companions and staff heading to their respective quarters. I lingered, taking one last look at our transformation of the space, now an inviting, elegant playground for the affluent.
“Hey,” Kaiden nudged me, concern creeping into his voice. “You good?”
I turned to him, the heaviness in my chest surprising me. “Yeah. Just thinking about tonight.”
“Want to talk?” His genuine warmth encouraged me to open up. “We've got time before we need to get ready.”
I hesitated. Kaiden’s flamboyant demeanor masking a surprisingly insightful nature. But I wasn’t sure I could articulate the jumble of emotions swirling inside me, even to him. “Maybe later,” I said finally. “I think I need a shower and some quiet time first.”
“Fair enough,” he replied, giving my shoulder a supportive squeeze. “Just remember, you’re not alone here. We’ve all got our stories and our reasons for being at The Ranch. No judgment, just support. That’s what roommates are for, right?”
His kindness almost brought a lump to my throat. “Right,” I managed. “Thanks, Kaiden.”
He flashed a bright smile. “Anytime, rookie. Now go get that shower. You smell like honest labor and anxiety, and that’s not the vibe we’re going for tonight.”
I laughed despite myself, tension breaking. “Noted. See you back at the room.”
The companions' quarters was buzzing with activity when I returned, everyone excited about the coming evening. On my bed I spotted a black box with my name. Curious, I approached the box and lifted the top—black silk-blend boxer briefs that looked stylish yet undeniably seductive.
I picked up the underwear, feeling the luxurious fabric between my fingers. This would be my outfit for the evening and I’d be serving drinks and making conversation with some of the wealthiest men in the world.
Standing in the shower, I let the hot water sluice away the sweat and dust from the day's work. As I washed, I tried to clear my mind and focus on the evening ahead. Tonight is about making connections, about creating opportunities. About getting closer to building a better life for Casey.
The thought of my brother steadied me, as it always did.
Whatever confusion I felt about Ricard, whatever discomfort I might experience during tonight’s party, none of it mattered compared to Casey's needs.
He had always been there for me, sacrificing his own dreams to raise me after our dad died.
Now it was my turn to be there for him, no matter what that required.
I shut off the water, stepping out of the shower and wrapping a towel around my waist. The mirror had fogged over, obscuring my reflection, a fitting metaphor for how I sometimes felt at The Ranch.
Who was I becoming in this place? Would I even recognize myself when all of this was over?
I closed my eyes, trying to push thoughts of the duke from my mind.
This was precisely the attachment Ibrahim had warned against, the emotional entanglement that could compromise my effectiveness as a companion.
Ricard was a client, nothing more. The connection I felt with him, the tenderness, the understanding, was part of the experience we created.
Then why does it feel so real?
I shook my head, dispelling the notion. It didn’t matter how it felt. What mattered was Casey and the future I was striving to secure for both of us. Everything else, including handsome dukes with sad eyes, was a distraction I couldn’t afford.