As I crossed the wooden floor, I saw a large, framed painting hanging on one wall. Chester Clarence. Amos Clarence’s grandfather who’d founded the resort. The portly man stood posed in front of a mountain backdrop. From everything I’d read, he’d been a gambler and scoundrel.

I headed to the reception desk.

“Welcome to the Windward Mountain Resort.” A young man smiled at me.

“I’ve been pre-checked in. Douglas Williams.”

“Of course, sir. Here’s the key to your suite, Mr. Williams. The elevators are over there.” The man pointed. “I see you’re attending the Mountain Masquerade. Enjoy.”

“Thank you.” Apparently, the masquerade’s sit-down dinner had already been sold out, but Robbie had snagged me a ticket for the silent auction and after-party. I spotted the gift shop. As I entered, an elegant, middle-aged woman was helping a couple who were looking at some jewelry. She smiled my way. “I’ll be with you in a moment.”

The staff all appeared to be well-trained and attentive. That was a good sign.

I spotted several masks available in a cabinet. Most were black or silver, while a few had a distinct mountain theme, decorated with fur or leaves.

Then my gaze fell on a beaten metal mask resting on a mannequin head sitting on top of the case. It just covered the top half of the face and had a masculine vibe. It made me think of kings and fairytales. I shook my head. I wasn’t one for fanciful thoughts.

“Can I help you?”

The woman had finished with the other customers and stood behind the counter.

“I need a mask for tonight.”

“As you can see, we have several options.” She waved a hand at the cabinet.

“I want that one.” I pointed to the one on the mannequin.

Her eyes lit up. “It’s made of real bronze. It’s pricey.”

“I’ll take it.”

With my new mask packed in a gift bag, I headed toward the elevators. I’d check out my room and relax. Fuck, it had been a long time since I’d done that.

I had no vacations planned for the foreseeable future. Taking over the company had meant endless workday after endless workday, and a hell of a lot of travel. I thrived on it, even on the days when I was irritated, exhausted, and fighting a headache. I’d do anything to make the company a success.

That meant I needed to make the most of this unplanned night off.

3. Tessa

Chapter 3

Tessa

The masquerade was a huge success.

I couldn’t keep the smile off my face.