Chapter 3
3
E lara paced the lobby, waiting for Grace to show up. It was 12:58 p.m. She knew she had told Grace to meet at one, but the wait was killing her. Thoughts raced through her mind as she kept glancing toward the lobby door.
What the hell have I gotten myself into?
Just as Elara considered backing out of this insane charade, Grace stepped through the doors with that same smile plastered across her face. Normally, Elara found Grace’s bubbly and indomitable attitude a bit grating, but right this moment, it soothed her fears. Grace was here. She wasn’t backing out.
Elara straightened her posture. “Right on time, Ms. Saunders.”
Grace stopped short, arching her eyebrow as if considering something. Her face broke into a grin. “Ms. Saunders? Come on. I’m supposed to be your girlfriend this week, right? Now is not the time for formalities. Please, let’s stick with Grace.”
Elara raised her eyebrow at Grace’s overt familiarity and turned toward the exit, her heels clicking. She refused to look back as she said, “The car is outside.”
Elara greeted the driver and slipped into the back of the waiting black car. With a sigh, she leaned her head back. Grace made her way around to the other side of the car, fumbling through thanking the driver for opening the door.
As soon as Grace was seated, Elara said, “You’ll need to start acting comfortable with people doing things for you. You will never convince anyone you are a heiress if a driver opening a door for you makes you flustered.”
Grace looked directly at Elara, her displeasure clear. They held eye contact for a moment, neither wanting to be the first to back down.
Without looking at the driver, Elara confirmed, “To the Ainsley House, please.”
Before she could continue her lecture, Grace blurted out, “ The Ainsley House? Don’t you need to set up an appointment weeks in advance to go there?”
“Not for the rich and elite. Which you need to start acting like you are part of.”
“Do I? Why do I need to be a heiress? Wouldn’t your family be happy to see you happy with someone regardless of their…station?
Elara looked away from Grace before she quietly replied, “No.”
Grace’s soft “oh” was almost too much for Elara. She couldn’t stand pity, especially not from someone who could never understand her life.
“I’ve done some research. It seems there is a wealthy family on the East Coast with a few Saunders in their line. This is who we will tell them is your family. They are obscure enough that I’m sure no one at this event will know who they are. It’ll be much easier to keep up this ruse if we can anticipate questions.”
“Um…okay? That works, actually. My parents moved back to the East Coast recently, so it wouldn’t even be a lie. And who knows? Maybe I am related to those people.”
Seeing that her attempt at small talk wasn’t going well, Grace sat back in defeat. “Is there anything else I should know?”
Elara sighed. There were many things Grace probably needed to know, but how could she possibly change this woman into something she wasn’t in one day?
“Just…be on your best behavior. Polite. Quiet. The less you say, the fewer opportunities they’ll have to poke holes in the story.”
Grace scoffed. This finally brought Elara’s gaze back to Grace, who was clearly upset.
“So, I’m to be seen and not heard?”
The guilt crept back up, closing Elara’s throat. She coughed, attempting to clear it away.
“No, I’m sorry. That’s not what I meant. I…I just don’t want you to have to lie too much. Things are much easier if we stick to the truth as much as possible. I don’t want you to be silent.”
Grace sat quietly, watching Elara as she stumbled through her apology. After a moment of silence, she nodded and turned to look out the window.
The car pulled over to the curb.“The Ainsley House, Ms. Silver.”
“Thank you, John. We should be ready in an hour.”
“I’ll be right here, Ms. Silver.”
Elara stood outside The Ainsley House and took a deep breath. Things were finally feeling normal. This was her favorite boutique. She knew exactly what to expect—no surprises behind those gilded doors. The tall, arching windows gleamed under the afternoon sun, casting a warm glow on the marble floors that reflected soft shades of cream and gold. Inside, plush velvet seating in rich jewel tones—emerald and burgundy—dotted the floor, next to mahogany tables displaying the finest fabrics draped like artwork. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, flattering light that made everything feel as exclusive as it was.
Opening the door, she turned around to find Grace motionless. Elara held the door open and gestured inside. “After you, Grace.”
As if startled, Grace hurried through the open door, and Elara followed behind her.
“Ms. Silver! We’ve been expecting you. Follow me. We’ve set up tea as you like,” the sales associate said.
At this, a tiny giggle slipped out of Grace, which she failed at covering up with a cough. Elara didn’t want to find it funny, but Grace’s discomfort was entertaining. At least she wasn’t alone in the strange and new.
Unable to resist poking fun, Elara quietly asked, “Something wrong, Grace?”
A crooked smile pulled at Grace’s lips as she mouthed, “Tea?”‘
Charmed, Elara snorted before she turned away to follow the sales associate to the private backroom. Elara had always valued privacy, so of course, she requested a private room every time she visited. God knows she spent enough money at the Ainsley to get a private room and hot tea.
The sales associate set out a beautiful porcelain tea set and poured two cups of Earl Grey. Having assured that Elara was seated and served, the associate finally turned to Grace.
“Would you like milk or sugar, ma’am?”
Grace nervously looked between Elara and the associate before replying, “If that wouldn’t be too much trouble, I would love some milk and two cubes of sugar.”
“Of course. Right away.”
As the woman left, the store manager appeared with a saccharine smile that stretched just a little too wide, gleaming like the Cheshire cat. Patty was everything one would expect from a woman running a high-end boutique. She was dressed in a designer dress with bold prints that clung to her slim frame, and her smooth blonde hair was pulled into a tight pony, which almost completely hid the grays beginning to streak throughout. Her eyes sparkled with sharp calculation, always hunting for the next sale, though her warm, almost theatrical manner masked it. The faint scent of expensive perfume lingered as she drew closer, her voice dripping with pleasure at the thought of the purchases to come.
Patty drew out with a dramatic flourish, “Eeeelaaara! What a pleasant surprise.”
She pulled up short when she noticed Grace but composed herself quickly. “I hear you’re in a bit of a rush and need ready-to-wear pieces. This must be your guest. Hello, dear. I’m Patty.”
At the sudden attention, Grace’s eyes widened. Biting her lip, she nodded in reply.
“Patty, this is Grace. We will need a week’s wardrobe. At least three formal dresses, three semi-formal suits, three semi-formal dresses, five casual outdoor outfits, a fur coat, and a ski jacket.”
Her fingers, polished with a pale pink manicure, quickly jotted down notes, all while her ever-present smile grew wider with each item Elara listed. She was clearly already mentally cataloging the commissions. The Cheshire-like grin made Elara roll her eyes.
Patty looked delirious, dollar signs practically popping out of her eyes. Nearly hopping with glee, she turned toward Grace, grabbing her hand and dragging her toward the raised alcove.
“Of course! Come, dear, let me get your measurements.”
Patty’s hands moved with the confidence of someone who’d done this a thousand times before. Her eyes flicked over Grace’s form, calculating every inch even before the measuring tape touched her skin. As she hemmed and hawed over Grace’s curvy frame, her sharp eyes sparkled with excitement—this was the thrill of her work. At one point, she commented that Grace’s build would limit their options.
Grace bit her lip. “Will that be a problem?”
Before Patty could answer, Elara crossed her arms and glared at the manager. This certainly did not go unnoticed by either woman standing in the alcove.
“Of course not! We’ll have you right as rain in no time.” Patty looked between Elara and Grace quickly before continuing, “In the standard palette, Elara?”
Elara stared at Grace for a moment, assessing her light brown hair, bright hazel eyes, and light olive skin. Elara’s standard grays, whites, and tans would dull Grace’s complexion.
“I think a few in the standard will be fine. I’d also like to see greens, golds, and burgundy.”
As Elara spoke, she watched disappointment wash across Grace’s face and amended, “Add in warm pink.”
Grace turned toward Elara, her face lit up with surprise and joy. Though Elara would never admit it, seeing Grace smile made something warm creep up in her chest. Before she could think too deeply about that, she approached the manager and finished her list.
“I would also like shoes to match for each outfit.”
“Absolutely! I will be right back with your options.”
As soon as the manager left the room, Grace let another giggle escape as she turned to Elara. “That’s a lot of clothes for one week.”
“I was actually just wondering if it wasn’t enough. You don’t know my family yet, but everyone is expected to dress formally for each dinner. Image is important to them, and I need you to blend in. If you wore the same outfit twice or didn’t have designer clothes, you would stick out.”
Grace crossed the alcove and slumped back into the chair, drinking from her tea cup as Elara spoke. She looked at Elara with sympathy, which made Elara squirm.
“I’m sorry. That sounds…difficult.”
Elara bristled and snapped, “Don’t. I’m not sorry. They’re right. Image is everything.”
Grace gasped at Elara’s terse response. Elara could not let someone, anyone, criticize her family. Family was everything. Her family’s legacy was everything. Her father had taken his small inherited boarding house and built an empire. Elara was proud of his accomplishments and all that he had done to get there. The good, the bad, the ugly—it was all worth it. Whether she liked it or not, part of upholding that family legacy was the image.
Grace lifted her eyebrows and turned back to her tea. The two sat in silence until the manager returned, this time with an entire entourage.
Nearly all the sales associates in the shop carried armfuls of clothes. As the associates displayed the choices on the racks around the room, Patty clapped her hands before crooning her pleasure to Elara.
“My, this was certainly a fun one today. We’ve picked the best of the best. Each item should be up to your impeccable standards.”
At this, she gestured to the selection. “Now, we only need to check the fit of each item.”
Grace let out a nervous giggle. “Well…tallyho?”
Elara snorted at Grace’s attempt at a joke before she could stop herself. She coughed and cleared her throat in a pathetic attempt to pretend that she did not laugh.
With all eyes on her, Elara looked toward Patty. “Yes, please proceed. We do not want any ill-fitting items, especially since we won’t have time for alterations.”
Grace walked toward the only pink item in the room, an elegant shift dress, and reached to pick it up. Patty stepped in front of her, interrupting Grace before she could grab the dress.
“Please undress behind the privacy screen. One of the associates will help you.”
Grace hesitated, her hand still hovering over the dress as if weighing whether to ignore Patty’s instructions. With a sharp exhale, she finally turned on her heel toward the privacy screen, her gaze flicking to Elara as if to say I’m doing this for you.
After finishing at the boutique, Elara ushered Grace back into the car, bags piled in the trunk. The sleek black vehicle wound its way out of Sacramento, the city’s bustle fading behind them as they headed east toward Tahoe’s mountains. For the next two hours, the car was filled with the hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of shopping bags. Grace quietly scrolled through her phone, glancing every so often at Elara, who remained focused on her tablet, answering emails with a sharp tap of her manicured fingers.
Nestled against the pristine backdrop of Lake Tahoe, the resort never failed to impress, even after her countless visits. The driveway wound through meticulously manicured gardens, where in spring, vibrant bursts of wildflowers would mingle with carefully shaped shrubs, creating an enchanting welcome. But this was winter, Elara’s favorite time of year. The driveway wound through a winter wonderland, where thick layers of snow blanketed the ground and frosted the branches of towering pines. Each flake glistened in the sunlight, creating a dazzling display that sparkled like diamonds.
As they glided past the glimmering fountains, now frozen in place, she marveled at how the sunlight caught the icy surfaces, casting shimmering reflections that danced across the ground. The main lodge loomed ahead, built from local stone and timber, harmoniously blending with the snow-covered mountains that surrounded it. Elara could almost feel the weight of her family's legacy resting on her shoulders, the responsibility both thrilling and daunting.
Pulling up to the valet, she caught a glimpse of guests bundled in elegant winter attire, sipping steaming mugs of cocoa and enjoying the crisp, cool air. She appreciated how the resort’s layout encouraged interaction while still maintaining the privacy that high-profile clientele expected. The staff moved gracefully among them, their uniforms reflecting the standard of excellence that Elara insisted upon.
By the time the car pulled up to the valet, Grace was nervously fidgeting with the hem of her coat while Elara stayed composed, her cool expression unshaken.
Once out of the car, she motioned for Grace to follow her, and they walked toward the entrance together. The lobby doors opened, revealing the warm glow inside. Elara breathed in deeply, the familiar scent of cedar and mountain herbs enveloping her like a comforting embrace. The lobby was just as she remembered—richly decorated yet welcoming, a space designed to make even the most discerning guests feel at home.
The towering stone fireplace dominated the room, flames flickering behind an artfully crafted iron screen, casting a soft golden light that danced across the walls. Wide terraces stretched out toward the lake, framed by towering windows that showcased a breathtaking view of snow-draped trees and the serene surface of the water. Plush seating arrangements invited relaxation, their deep burgundy and forest green fabrics blending with the dark wood floors, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
As she walked through the lobby, she exchanged discreet nods with the staff, each familiar face a reminder of the commitment she had to this place. Grace, trailing a few steps behind her, was wide-eyed, taking in every detail as though it was a magical new world. Elara could sense her wonderment, the contrast between them palpable—the one who had built this world and the one only visiting it.
To the right, a hallway led to the suites on the top floor, each designed for unparalleled privacy and indulgence. The dining room, visible through a side arch, was draped in velvet curtains and illuminated by crystal chandeliers that sparkled like icicles, reflecting the wintry landscape outside. The tables were set with fine china and silver, ready to host the evening's distinguished guests.
Elara felt the familiar weight of responsibility settle over her shoulders. This wasn’t just a place to admire; it was her family's empire, and every part of it reflected her choices and oversight. Even here, surrounded by grandeur, her mind was already moving to the next detail, the next challenge. She glanced over at Grace, who was still absorbing the surroundings, and a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. For all the pressure, there was something satisfying about showing someone new the world she managed so deftly.
“Welcome back, Ms. Silver,” a staff member greeted her with a respectful smile as they approached the front desk. Elara nodded in return, the acknowledgment of her presence a comfortable reminder of her authority here.
The receptionist politely smiled.“Welcome to Silver Resorts at Lake Tahoe. It looks like you two are checking in. Last name on the reservation?”
She was clearly a new hire and a young one at that. The girl looked barely twenty-one. Elara smiled, pleased that the staff were following protocol, even when they didn’t know she was around.
“Silver. Elara Silver. There will be several other Silvers arriving tomorrow.”
The receptionist’s eyes grew wide as she hurriedly typed Elara’s name into the computer, her fingers flying over the keyboard. “Oh, of course, Ms. Silver! I hope you enjoy your stay with us. Your suite is ready, and I’ve added a complimentary bottle of champagne for you and your guests.”
“Thank you. That’s very kind,” Elara replied, keeping her tone formal. The agent beamed, clearly thrilled to be helping a Silver.
After a moment, the girl handed Elara the key card, her hands trembling slightly. “Your suite is on the top floor, room 1201. Just take the elevator to your right.”
“Great, thank you,” Elara said. She turned to Grace. “Let’s go.”
Once inside the elevator, Elara kept her gaze forward. “From this moment on, it is crucial that we maintain the appearance of being a couple. Unless we are in the privacy of our suite, you must assume that eyes are on you.”
Grace nodded stiffly, her expression unreadable. “Understood.”
As the elevator doors opened on their floor, Elara stepped out first, heels clicking against the polished marble floor. She strode down the corridor with purpose, glancing back occasionally to ensure Grace was following.
When they reached their suite, Elara opened the door to reveal the elegant interior. A sitting room greeted them, adorned with plush furnishings and soft, ambient lighting, while large windows framed a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains beyond. Off to the side, a doorway led to the bedroom and bathroom.
Grace hesitated before crossing the threshold, glancing around with an expression that suggested she was still assessing the situation. “This is…nice,” she said, her tone neutral and face revealing nothing.
Before Elara could respond, the sound of a discreet bell chimed as the staff elevator opened down the hall. A bellman appeared, wheeling a cart laden with their luggage.
“Welcome, ladies,” he said with a friendly smile, effortlessly maneuvering the cart toward them. “I hope your journey here was pleasant.”
Elara returned the smile, appreciating the bellman’s warmth. “It was, thank you.” After he unloaded the bags and placed them in the sitting room, she stepped forward and handed him a crisp hundred-dollar bill, the tip generous enough to elicit a look of surprise. “Thank you for taking care of our things.”
“Wow, thank you, Ms. Silver!” His eyes lit up. “Enjoy your stay!”
Watching the bellman leave, Elara turned to Grace. “Let’s settle in. We’ll need to review the event schedule before the others arrive.”
Elara was met with silence as she looked up to see Grace standing far too still at the bedroom door. Elara stepped forward, her gaze shifting over Grace’s shoulder to see what was wrong. To her horror, Elara realized there was only one bed. Her stomach dropped and her palms began to sweat as she remembered making the reservation. She had requested a king-sized bed when she thought the escort would be accompanying her. That little detail slipped her mind when she was panicking and begging Grace to step in. Elara cleared her throat, startling Grace, who turned toward her with a shocked expression.
“There’s only one bed?”
Elara paused and took a deep breath. “I can see that. There must have been a mix-up with the reservation. An unfortunate mistake.”
Walking past Grace, Elara finally saw the rose petals on the duvet cover. Feeling heat rise up her neck, her face began to burn. “A very unfortunate mistake.”
Elara knew her discomfort was written across her face and in the way her posture slumped, as if she believed she could shrink out of existence.
Grace walked over and picked up a rose petal. Without looking up, she asked, “What do we do? Can we change it still?”
Elara palmed her face, wondering if she rubbed her eyes hard enough this would disappear. “We can’t. Remember what I said? Eyes everywhere. We wouldn’t be a very convincing couple if we demanded separate beds, now would we? No. I know this is…”
“Weird. This is weird.”
Sighing, Elara agreed. “It’s not normal. But we will have to make do. I cannot risk having this fall apart, especially not from the jump.”