Chapter 9
Chapter Nine
Nat watched as Sofia uncorked another bottle of wine, the rich burgundy liquid splashing into their glasses. The storm outside howled around the chalet's eaves, but inside, a cozy atmosphere had settled over them.
Nat felt pleasantly warm and happy, whether from the wine or the company, she wasn't quite sure. She'd lost track of how many glasses they'd had, but she knew she was definitely feeling the effects. Sofia, too, seemed more relaxed. She was laughing a lot and had a slight flush on her cheeks.
"Nat," she said, leaning back into the sofa cushions, "tell me something. Do you have a boyfriend back in town?"
Nat chuckled at the question. "No, no boyfriend," she replied, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Actually, I play for your team." The words were out of her mouth before she could think better of them.
Sofia's eyebrows shot up, surprise evident on her face. "Oh! I... I hadn't realized. I'm sorry for assuming."
Nat waved it off. "No need to apologize. It's not like I walk around with a rainbow flag or anything. "Besides, I’m used to people making that assumption."
Sofia nodded. "I suppose I can relate to that. People often assume I'm straight too." She paused, swirling the wine in her glass. "So, no girlfriend either then?"
"Nope," Nat said, popping the 'p' sound. "Single as can be."
"Really? I find that hard to believe. You're smart, kind, beautiful..." She trailed off as if suddenly realizing what she was saying.
Nat blushed at the compliment. "Thank you," she said, trying to keep her tone light. "But it's actually not that easy to date in Aspen, believe it or not."
"Oh? How so?"
"Well, for one thing, most people here are often just passing through. They're on vacation, looking for a good time, not anything serious. And I've had enough of short-term flings to last me a lifetime."
"I can understand that," Sofia said. "It must be hard, watching people come and go all the time."
"It can be," Nat admitted. "Don't get me wrong, I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. But when it comes to dating... it's nice to have someone who sticks around, you know?"
"But you’ve had your fair share of torrid affairs with chalet guests then?"
Nat burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the room. "Oh God, no! I would never cross that line. It's completely against the rules, not to mention unprofessional."
"Not even a little flirt?" Sofia teased.
Nat's laughter subsided, but a smile remained on her lips. "I didn't say that," she admitted. "I've had a few... encounters over the years. But always with other seasonal workers, never guests."
"Do tell," Sofia said, leaning in conspiratorially.
Nat took another sip of wine, feeling emboldened by the alcohol and Sofia's genuine interest. "There was this one woman a couple of years ago.
She was working as a ski instructor for the season.
We hit it off right away, and spent most of our free time together.
It was fun, intense even. But when the season ended, she went back to Australia, and that was that. "
"You didn't try to keep in touch?"
Nat shrugged. "We did, for a while. But you know how it is. Once people are back in their own world, the contact starts to fade. We both moved on."
"I suppose that's the nature of holiday romances. They burn bright but fade quickly."
"Exactly. What about you? Any holiday flings in your past?"
Sofia smiled and shook her head. "No, not really. I've always been more of a long-term relationship kind of person." Her expression sobered slightly. "Maybe too much so."
Nat wasn’t sure if she should press further, but the wine had loosened her inhibitions. "Your ex... how long were you together?"
Sofia's gaze dropped to her wine glass, her fingers tracing the stem absently. "Six years," she said. "We bought a home together in New York and even talked about marriage. I thought..." She trailed off, shaking her head. "It doesn't matter what I thought."
"I'm sorry," Nat said. "Six years is a long time. That must have been really hard. It probably still is."
"It was. It is. I mean, I've had time to heal and I’ve moved on. It's been nine months now. But then she started calling and messaging me before I came here, and… I wish she would leave me alone."
“What about your best friend?” Nat asked. “I assume you’re not in contact anymore?”
“No,” Sofia said resolutely. “Perhaps that was the worst betrayal of all. Relationships come and go but friends are supposed to be for life. Isn’t that what they say?
My ex moved in with her, but I heard they recently broke up.
That’s probably why she wants to get back together with me.
She can’t be alone.” She straightened herself and tapped her knee.
“But you know what? I like my own company. I know I was a bit down, but I don’t mind being alone.
In fact, I’m enjoying being stuck in a snowstorm with a kitten and a chalet girl. ”
“That’s the spirit.” Nat leaned over in her chair to clink her glass against Sofia’s.
“Cheers. It’s been lovely to get to know you a little,” Sofia said.
Nat’s gaze was drawn to Sofia, watching the play of firelight across her features. In the soft glow, with her guard down she looked different. Softer, more approachable. Beautiful, she realized with a start.
As if sensing Nat's gaze, Sofia looked up. There was a warmth there, a connection that Nat hadn't felt with anyone in a long time.
"Nat," Sofia said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I meant what I said. I... I'm really glad you're here. I know I didn't exactly make the best first impression, but... this has been nice."
Nat felt a flutter in her stomach. "It has been nice," she agreed.
Sofia opened her mouth as if to say something more, but then seemed to think better of it. Instead, she reached for the wine bottle. "Another glass?" she offered.
Nat knew she should probably say no. She was already feeling the effects of the wine, but she didn’t want to end this moment and break the connection that seemed to be growing between them.
"Sure," she said, holding out her glass. "Why not?"
As Sofia took her glass, their fingers brushed, sending a jolt of electricity through Nat. She met Sofia's eyes and saw her own surprise mirrored there. For a moment, neither of them moved, the contact lingering far longer than necessary.
Finally, Sofia pulled back, clearing her throat as she poured the wine and handed Nat her glass back. "Tell me," she said, her voice a little husky. "Tell me more about this dream hotel of yours. What would it be like?"
Nat settled back into her chair, grateful for the change of subject.
"Okay, picture this,” she said. A charming, intimate lodge nestled in the heart of Aspen.
I envision a place with just ten to fifteen rooms, each uniquely designed to reflect the character of the mountains while offering modern luxury.
I want large windows to showcase the mountain views and a balcony for each room, complete with cozy blankets and heaters.
Inside, the lobby would feel more like a welcoming living room than a traditional hotel reception, with a grand stone fireplace, plush leather sofas, and bookshelves filled with local literature and guidebooks.
Each room would be a retreat in itself, with handcrafted furniture, locally sourced textiles, and state-of-the-art amenities hidden seamlessly within the rustic decor.
Bathrooms would feature deep soaking tubs and rain showers, perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes. ”
“And you would have an on-site restaurant?” Sofia asked. “You have to have a restaurant, you’re a brilliant chef.”
“Yes, the heart of the hotel would be a farm-to-table restaurant, showcasing the best of Colorado's produce.
I'd love to have an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs at work.” Nat smiled, imagining it like she had so many times.
“I want every guest to feel like they're staying with a friend who knows all the local secrets.
We'd offer custom itineraries, insider tips on the best ski runs or hiking trails, and partnerships with local guides for truly unique experiences.
The goal is to create a place that feels like a home away from home.
A place where people can truly connect with the mountains, the local culture, and themselves. "
She paused, a little embarrassed by her enthusiasm. "Sorry, I got a bit carried away there."
"No, please continue," Sofia urged, her eyes bright with interest. "It's inspiring to hear you talk with such passion."
"Well, I don't want a spa or extortionate frills," Nat explained.
"Just a really wonderful experience for my guests.
I want them to feel the warmth and character of Aspen, not just stay in another generic luxury hotel.
" She paused, a mischievous glint in her eye.
"Oh, and maybe a resident cat," she added with a laugh.
Turning to where Moxie was curled up nearby, she cooed, "Would you like to come and live with me in my hotel, Moxie? "
Sofia's response was immediate and playful. "No chance," she said, reaching out to scoop up the kitten. "Moxie is coming home with me."