16. Isabella
Natalia’slaughter echoed through the elegant corridor of my parents’ home, bringing a sense of normalcy and comfort in the midst of life’s rapidly shifting sands. “Come on, Izzy, I haven’t got all day!” she chided, her voice a lively contrast to the serene morning, ruffling the calm like a breeze through the leaves.
Herpresence, with that oversized latte in hand—a lifeline on these early starts—and her phone abuzz with the latest on the MirageGuild project, was a reminder of the thrilling yet daunting new chapter unfolding before us. I appeared at the door, hair and heart both in a state of disarray, the sleep barely shaken off. “You’re way too chipper for—” a glance at my wristwatch cut me off, “—it’s not even eight in the morning, Nat!”
Natalia, with her indefatigable spirit, pushed the latte into my hands, a gesture that spoke volumes of the early mornings yet to come. “Consider it an apology in advance for all the future early mornings,” she quipped, her grin infectious despite the hour.
Takinga grateful sip, I couldn’t suppress a soft moan of appreciation at the first caffeine hit of the day. “I might forgive you,” I mused, locking the door behind us and falling into step with Natalia toward the waiting black town car, “given how you’ve mastered my coffee order.”
Aswe made our way to the black town car waiting to whisk us away, the conversation naturally flowed to the MirageGuild. “So, this MirageGuild thing . . . it’s really happening, huh?” I mused, the reality of it all beginning to sink in. Natalia’s eyes danced with a blend of excitement and a smidge of anxiety. “Iz, it’s going to be huge,” she breathed out, her enthusiasm palpable. “And apparently, your boy is going to be there to shine with the wine.”
Icouldn’t help but correct her playful assumption, “He’s not ‘my boy,’ Nat,” though my mind couldn’t help but wander to the possibilities that lay ahead for Max and me in this new venture.
Natgrinned like she’d caught me in a trap. “But you knew who I was talking about,” she said with a smug look on her face.
Aswe talked, a mix of trepidation and anticipation filled me. TheMirageGuild project represented more than a new job. It was a leap into the unknown, an opportunity to redefine my path and, perhaps, reconcile the conflicting desires within me.
Ithad been a whirlwind few weeks since Max and I shared that intimate moment in the office. Time seemed to compress and stretch in odd ways, leaving us both caught in a current of unspoken questions and burgeoning possibilities. WhenMax wasn’t working his shift at the PrismSociety, he was knee-deep in studying for his sommelier exam and placing wine orders for the new space.
Mynew title as event coordinator felt like more than a job—it felt like a calling. It was an opportunity to blend my passions and aspirations into the fabric of the MirageGuild. Embracing this role with heart and soul, I was fully invested in creating an atmosphere filled with mystery and allure. Yet, beneath the excitement and flurry of activity, an unspoken question lingered between Max and me, unasked but always there.
Whatif our combined work paths created a situation too complicated for our new relationship to handle?
AsMax dedicated his hours to his exam and the intricacies of the wine world, I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of planning and preparation. Reaching out to everyone within my network who might be intrigued by the sultry allure of the MirageGuild’s events, I designed themes that promised to enchant and enthrall. My days were a blur of phone calls and meetings, each one a step toward the grand vision we had for the opening night. From scouring the city for unique decorations that matched the aesthetic I wanted for events to negotiating with vendors who shared our excitement for the unconventional, every detail mattered.
Ialso dove deep into the world of talent scouting, seeking out performers and artists who embraced our vibe, who could bring our themed nights to life with their energy and creativity. This wasn’t just about filling a space with people. It was about curating experiences that would linger in the minds of our guests, enticing them to return to the mystery time and again.
Natalia’svoice pulled me back from my reverie, her excitement about the MirageGuild infectious, but it was her next words that truly caught my attention. “You and Max are basically going to run the show, you know.” Her words echoed in my mind, a reminder of the stakes at play, not just for the success of the MirageGuild but for the delicate dance of our growing connection.
“Wait, back up a second, Nat. What do you mean, ‘Max and I will run the show’?” I pressed, needing to understand the full scope of what she was suggesting.
Natleaned back, her expression turning thoughtful as if considering how best to articulate the situation. “Okay, let me break it down for you. Dom and Liam have their hands full with the PrismSociety, right? They’re continuing to manage that space, to keep it thriving. But with the MirageGuild, they’re looking to take a step back, delegate more of the day-to-day and big-picture stuff.”
Shepaused, sipping her coffee before continuing, “They approached me first, asked if I wanted to step in as manager for the Guild. But honestly, Izzy, my plate is overflowing. I’m on this path with the board, trying to bridge this gap between sultry entertainment and health and wellness. It’s niche, sure, but if I nail it, I could be looking at part ownership in future clubs. It’s my shot, you know?”
Inodded, her words painting a clearer picture of the chessboard we were all playing on.
“So, that’s where you and Max come in,” Nat said, her gaze direct and serious now. “Dom’s seen what you both can do, separately and together. The chocolate and wine night wasn’t just a hit. It was a revelation. You’ve got this creative vision, Izzy, and Max, well, his wine knowledge and charisma are unbeatable. Dom’s thinking is, why not combine those strengths? Make the MirageGuild something extraordinary under your joint supervision.”
Mymind raced, considering the possibilities and challenges such a role would entail. “So, Dom’s really going to entrust us with that much responsibility?” I asked, the weight of the opportunity starting to sink in. It was wild how Nat stepped into roles, even part owner, with such ease, like she belonged in those rooms—which, of course, she did. I just wish I could tap into that confidence as naturally.
“Looks like it,” Nat replied with a grin. “He sees potential in you, in both of you. And from what I’ve seen, he’s not wrong. Max brings expertise; you bring innovation. Together, you’ll set the Guild apart from anything else out there. And yeah, Dom’s planning to have a sit-down with Max soon, lay it all out. But between you and me, I think it’s a done deal.”
Herwords settled around me, a mixture of daunting responsibility and thrilling opportunity. This wasn’t just another job—it was a chance to carve out something unique, something impactful. And to do it alongside Max, that thought alone sent a flutter of excitement through me.
ButNat’s insights also hinted at the underlying complexity of working so closely with Max. Our interactions so far had been charged, a blend of professional respect and personal attraction that was as intoxicating as it was precarious. Could we navigate this new landscape without jeopardizing what was blossoming between us? That remained to be seen.
Thetown car slowed, halting subtly along a quaint, cobblestone street in GreenwichVillage. The rich scent of sawdust, signaling fresh construction and renovation, wafted into the vehicle as we stepped out. Before us, the fa?ade of an inviting, albeit ordinary-looking, tavern presented itself amidst the bustling village scene.
Natalialeaned in, her voice bubbling with excitement. “What do you think?”
Il took in ancient bricks, the swaying sign that spelled out “Vinifera,” and the low hum of two men nearby discussing building plans. My nose was filled with a mix of smells: the earthy fragrance of wood stain and a hint of fresh paint.
Ihad thought the MirageGuild grand opening would be extravagant, but then I remembered—the charm of this place lay in its secrecy and elusiveness. TheMirageGuild wasn’t meant to be ostentatious. Its allure lay in its secrecy, its mystery.
Iturned my gaze toward Natalia, raising an eyebrow in playful skepticism. “It’s . . . subtle.”
Nataliachuckled, her heels clicking assertively against the cobblestones as she led the way. “Just wait.”
InsideVinifera, the air was alive with the quiet hustle of renewal. The tavern’s classic charm—dark wood panels, soft jazz tunes trickling from hidden speakers, low-hung amber lights—mingled with the energy of rejuvenation. Workers moved with purpose, their hands carefully polishing aged wood surfaces, applying fresh coats of deep, rich paint, and adjusting the newly hung lights that added a warm, modern glow.
Iwalked by a striking new addition near the bar’s end—a floor-to-ceiling wooden and metal shelf, an artful construction designed to cradle an extensive collection of wine bottles. Its blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance seemed to embody the spirit of Vinifera’s transformation.
Nearby, a small wine cellar, its walls of glass framed in sleek black metal, caught my attention. The sight brought an unbidden blush to my cheeks, as memories of my and Max’s clandestine adventure in my parents’ wine cellar flickered to life. The cellar, with its inviting display of vintage and rare wines, was like a transparent treasure chest, radiating the promise of shared secrets and discoveries.
Thetavern, in the midst of its transformation, felt like a bridge between the past and the future, keeping one foot in tradition while stepping confidently forward into a new era. It was in this space, between the old and the new, that I found myself reflecting on the journey I’d embarked upon—a journey of new beginnings, unexpected friendships, and a world of possibilities waiting to be uncorked.
Nataliaguided me toward the back, where an immense bookshelf reached from floor to ceiling. Without hesitation, she pressed a seemingly random compilation of spines, and with a hushed creak, the bookshelf swung open, revealing the threshold to the MirageGuild.
Steppingthrough, the atmosphere shifted palpably. Here, the sounds of construction and the old-world charm of the wine bar gave way to something from another world.
Westepped fully into the MirageGuild, enveloped by a world that seamlessly wove the whimsy of a vintage circus with the plush, opulent elegance typical of a high-end lounge. The immediate view was dominated by bold, emerald greens, lavish gold accents, and sultry, velvety reds, establishing a setting that was at once inviting and thrilling.
Westood on an elevated entry, giving us a panorama of the alluring spectacle below. In the room’s center, a large, circular stage commanded attention, adorned overhead by extravagant striped fabric cascading from the ceiling, creating a tent-like aura. It was as if we had stepped into a clandestine spectacle, a hidden world where the unexpected was the norm.
Idescended the few steps, my hand gently gliding over the polished mahogany rail, my eyes wide and darting about, drinking in every detail. The chairs and loungers encircling the stage were low, fashioned from rich, dark wood, and upholstered with sumptuous, jewel-toned fabrics, all facing toward the stage in anticipatory arrangement, awaiting an event, a show, a reveal.
Gildedlight fixtures hung low over each table, casting a warm, intimate glow over each seating area. It was as if every seat promised its own private viewing of the impending spectacle, despite being part of a larger audience.
Iwhispered, still gazing around, “It’s like stepping into another era. This is incredible, Nat.”
Thewalls on either side of the circular stage boasted halls filled with doors, each distinct, yet uniformly exquisite. Some sported polished brass knobs, others intricate carvings, suggesting that behind each entryway lay a unique experience waiting to be uncovered. It whispered of mysteries and adventures yet to be embarked upon, each door a portal to a different facet of the MirageGuild’s offerings.
Atthe room’s far end, an expansive bar stretched elegantly, immediately catching my eye. Mercury glass mirrors fractured yet somehow whole, lined the back of the bar, reflecting and refracting the warm, ambient light.
Natalialeaned in, her voice a melodic whisper, “Every detail, every piece here tells a story, Izzy. Isn’t it thrilling?”
Myeyes twinkled, reflecting the fractured light from the mercury glass. For a moment, my previous apprehensions seemed to melt away, absorbed by the fantastical charm of the MirageGuild. It was a realm where we could craft stories, adventures, and experiences not just for ourselves, but for everyone who stepped into this enchanting spectacle.
Therewas magic here, and we were now a part of it.
“Can’t you just see it coming to life?” Natalia asked as I continued to take in my fill, my eyes scanning every surface of the room.
“Yeah, actually, I can,” I responded with a small smile on my face.
Thestage was set up in a way that everyone in the room could see it. It was for performance. For show. Whoever ended up on that stage was going to be seen. I could picture some of the events they might host here. I’d been doing some reading on educational elements their members might enjoy and I found myself way more into it all than I thought I’d be.
Icould plan a workshop on Shibari, or a sensual wax play, there could even be themed burlesque shows, or live erotic art performances. I felt confident I could reach out to the DeLorenzos to find artists to work with and bring them here, to the MirageGuild.
ButI didn’t want to just utilize the stage. The tasting events that I’d worked with Max on were equally as intimate and sensual. Private tasting experiences could definitely be incorporated into the corners of this room.
“So the space will kind of act in two parts,” Natalia said. “Back here is where the sexy things will go down.” Nat shimmied her shoulders as she spoke. “And up front in the tavern is where anyone can come for a drink and listen to music. There will be a bar in this section as well, but this space is mostly for enjoying the stage and reserving a room.”
“And where will Max be?” I asked the inside thought out loud.
Nataliahad a sly grin on my face as she eyed me. “SoMaxwill basically be the sommelier available for private events. He’ll bounce around from Vinifera to the MirageGuild throughout the week, depending on where he’s needed.”
Isimply nodded like it was routine information I needed, but I knew Natalia saw right through me. But for now, it still felt safest to keep what had happened to myself. For now, it was fun, and it seemed like it served as a release for both of us. It didn’t need to mean anything more than that.
Itook another look around the space as Natalia took measurements for a few things. New furniture would arrive next week to fill the open floor space around the stage and new lighting would be wired in shortly after that. They were putting their mark on this space, and I was happy to be a part of it.
Ienjoyed the vibe of the MirageGuild; it felt cozier and more intimate than the lounge at the PrismSociety. I could see myself at home here and the thought of that both thrilled and terrified me.
“Oh, are you coming out for Jules’s birthday tomorrow night?” Nat asked as we headed back through the tucked-away bookshelf and into the crew working inside Vinifera. “She’s basically demanding anyone involved with the new space come out dancing so we can all hang out before things get even crazier.”
“I haven’t been out dancing since . . .” I said as I tilted my head up to think back.
“Marrakech. TheRoseBar.” Nat reminded me. “Remember the bouncer threw that guy out because he wouldn’t stop trying to get up on the bar and do the CoyoteUgly routine?”
“Oh, my god, yes.” I laughed. “But yes, I will be there, I’ve still got some dance moves in me.” I looped my arm with Nat’s as we walked back out onto the sidewalk and slid into our waiting car.
Sittingoutside an adult club, scheming events to plan, and daydreaming about one of my brother’s best friends was certainly not how I had envisioned my life to be going at this point, but something about it all felt right.