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“Where are you? We’re in reception,” she says.
“Just about to head down. Perfection takes time,” I say dryly.
Stella laughs. “See you in a minute. And Leah... remember your heels!”
I look at my bare feet before digging into my bag and pulling out the shoes Stella chose earlier in the week. I slide them onto my feet, rebalancing myself. I reserve wearing heels for specific occasions, such as client meetings or parties, where limited alternatives are available.
Grabbing my clutch bag from the desk, I head to the door, switching off the light before closing it behind me. The office floor is relatively empty, and only a few people remain at their desks. I wave goodnight and walk to the elevator, my muscles twitching the closer I get.
Waiting in reception, the girls are sat on one of the many leather sofas littered about.
“Wow,” Stella says, pulling me in for a hug. “I knew that was the dress. You look...” She places her fingers on her lips and kisses them, throwing the kiss into the air. Her exaggerated movements make me laugh.
Stella and Nat have also dressed up. Nat is in her preferred navy trouser suit, with flared legs, while Stella has opted for a red, fitted dress, showcasing her natural curves, topped off with killer heels.
“Girls on the town,” Stella says, linking arms with both of us and pulling us to the door.
Nat gives me a sympathetic look over Stella’s head. Oh heck, what have I let myself in for?
“Change of venue,” Stella adds. “Mr Dyer was giving away invitations to a trendy new wine bar that’s opening tonight. I snagged three tickets. Wine tasting, with cheese and charcuterie, and hopefully plenty of young, sexy men for us to choose from.”
The butterflies in my stomach settle. How raucous can a wine tasting bar opening get?
CHAPTER 4
GABRIEL
Tristan’s latest wine bar is not what I expected. It’s in an old, converted brick building that he has repurposed with a modern twist. The once boarded-up arch entrance has received a modern makeover. The old wooden doors have been replaced by a vast expanse of glass, housing a double glass doorway. I step inside, past the doorman, flashing the ticket Caleb sent me. The murmur of voices and laughter makes its way down the wide wooden staircase. I breathe in, glancing at my watch, before going upstairs.
“You’re late,” Caleb says, clapping me on the shoulder, grinning at my scowl. “Come on. Tristan can’t wait to see you.”
I follow Caleb over to the main bar area. The inside is even more impressive than the outside. The exposed brick and pipework give an industrial feel, but the expanse of glass and light brings the place into this century. Large tables grace the centre of the room, while smaller alcoves adorn the outside. Not that I can see much over the number of bodies present.
“Gabriel.”
I hear my name shouted over the noise, and I turn to face the man of the hour.
“Tristan,” I say. “Amazing place.” And I realise I mean it. I may not like crowds, but I can appreciate the amount of thought and effort it has taken to create this atmosphere and setting.
“I’m so glad you could make it. It’s been too long,” he says, motioning to the bartender before placing a glass of red wine in my hand. “You’re going to like this one.”
I’ve been ordering wine from Tristan for years since he opened his first bar, although never in person. Until now.
“Thank you.” I hold it up to the light and nod my appreciation, swirling the burgundy liquid around the glass. I breathe in the aroma. “That smells...”
Tristan grins at me, as I take a sip, letting the flavours explode on my tongue.
“Add twelve to my next order,” I say, earning myself a clap on the back from our friend.
Caleb appears at my side. “Can I steal my brother away? There are a few people I want him to meet.”
“I’ll get those bottles ordered. Catch you later,” Tristan says before disappearing into the crowd.
I follow Caleb, sidestepping the people jostling for space. “We’re over here,” Caleb says, moving me towards a large table surrounded by several people.
“Hi everyone, I’d like to introduce you to my brother, Gabriel,”
Everyone looks up, a number smiling and waving their greeting. I give a nod of acknowledgement.
