Ruby’s composure returns quickly, though I catch the flash of panic in her eyes. “Athena,” she says. “What a surprise.”
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt,” I say again. “I just came to ehm…” I pause until an excuse hits me. “I actually came to see if I left my shoes here yesterday. I can’t seem to find them anywhere at home.”
Ruby’s eyebrows rise slightly. “Yes, your shoes are in the hallway. I was going to bring them over later.”
Sarah laughs, settling back into her chair beside Erik. “How on earth did you forget your shoes?”
I feel heat creeping up my neck. “I had a few drinks,” I lie. “Ruby makes a mean Martini.”
“More hidden talents?” Sarah remarks, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Were you guys having a girls’ night or something?”
“Just catching up,” Ruby interjects before I can respond. Her fingers tap nervously against her wine glass. “Athena moved in about eighteen months ago, but we’ve only recently gotten to know each other.” She smiles, but it feels a little forced. “Have a drink with us, Athena. Have you eaten? There’s plenty of food.”
The man across from Ruby stands and extends his hand. “Erik,” he introduces himself. “Sarah’s boyfriend. Nice to meet you.”
I shake his hand. “Pleasure,” I reply. “I’m not staying, and I’ve already had lunch, thank you. I was just dropping in on my way to work to pick up my shoes, that’s all.”
“Where do you work?” Sarah asks before I get the chance to escape.
“The Olympus. You know it? It’s one of the casinos on the Strip.”
Erik laughs. “Of course we know it! It’s super famous. I went there with a few friends years ago—it was amazing.” He leans forward, curious. “What do you do there?”
I’m mildly uncomfortable, not used to explaining my position in casual social settings. Most people in Vegas already know who I am. “I own it,” I say, shifting from one foot to the other.
Erik and Sarah laugh in unison, then their expressions shift as they realize I’m not joking.
“That’s…Fuck!” Erik exclaims, clearly impressed. “I had no idea we were in the presence of Vegas royalty.”
Ruby sips her wine, watching our exchange with an unreadable expression. I notice her twirling the stem of her glass between her fingers—a nervous habit I’ve come to recognize.
“It’s just a business,” I say, downplaying it. “Like any other.”
“So you two are friends?” Sarah asks, looking from me to Ruby and back. “That’s nice. It must be wonderful to get on so well with your neighbor. Erik and I live next to this grumpy old lady who keeps bashing her walking stick against the wall if our TV is too loud.”
I laugh, grateful for the change of subject. “Ruby’s complained about noise, actually. I had some sound system issues that were disturbing her peace.”
Ruby’s eyes meet mine and finally her lips pull into a genuine smile. She looks amused as she shrugs. “It wasn’t a big deal. Athena fixed it.”
“You’re quite the party animal, huh?”Erik asks.
I shake my head with a grin. “Far from, Erik. Anyway, I should go. I have a meeting.”
“Shoot. I was just about to ask you if you could arrange a discount on a room at the Olympus,” Sarah jokes.
“You’re both welcome to have a room on the house,” I say without hesitation. “I don’t give out my number, but if you arrange it through Ruby, I’ll make sure you’re comfortable.”
Sarah and Erik exchange excited glances.
“Are you serious?” Erik asks. “That would be incredible!”
“Thank you!” Sarah beams. “That’s so generous.”
I smile, enjoying their enthusiasm. “My pleasure. Enjoy your time in Vegas.” Then I turn to Ruby. “Ruby, would you mind showing me where my shoes are?”
“Of course.” Ruby rises immediately. “I’ll be right back,” she tells Sarah and Erik, who are now whispering to each other.
I follow Ruby through the house, careful not to walk too close. The moment we’re out of sight, I notice her shoulders relax slightly. “How are you?” I ask.
