Passion at the Opera (2 page)

“Probably not. My establishments are all European based and deal with technology, furniture, and architecture. I also own a wine company, men and women’s apparel shops, and select hotels.”

Gwen pressed her lips together to keep her jaw from dropping. The man had to be very busy managing so many businesses. He also had to be very wealthy, which explained the nice suit he wore. His achievements and interest in the arts impressed her.

“Your achievements are much grander than mine.”

“What do you do for a living?”

“I’m a manager in an office. I’m sure it’s nothing like managing multiple businesses.”

A warm smile spread across his lips. “Probably not, but I’d like to learn more about you.”

Her heart gained an extra beat. She’d love to spend time with him and find out more about him.

Stephen came to a stop next to them. He looked at Nikolaus and spoke in German. Gwen watched the two talk. Their conversation seemed important. When Nikolaus glanced at Gwen, she said, “I don’t understand German. I only know English.”

“One of Stephen’s shops is opening soon and he’s run into a few problems,” Nikolaus said.

Gwen turned her gaze to Stephen. “I’m sorry to hear that. Do you own many companies too?” Stephen’s attire suggested he too was a successful businessman.

“I own a few.”

“He’s a very good businessman. Very smart,” Nikolaus said. “I’m trying to convince him to take over my establishments.”

Stephen chuckled. “He never stops trying.”

“I’m fifty-three and ready to start enjoying retirement. It’s time to let someone else handle all the affairs, and you know you are the best man for the job.”

“I keep telling him he can’t retire until he finishes paying for his daughters’ educations, and he continues to insist I step into his shoes.”

“A college education is expensive.” Gwen nodded. “I can understand the need to keep working to pay for such an expense.”

“Do you have any children, Gwenevere?” Nikolaus asked.

“I have two grown daughters. One is still in college. Please, call me Gwen.”

“Grown young women? I’m shocked. You look young.” Nikolaus ran his gaze down her body.

“I’m forty-four.”

“I would never have guessed.” A hint of a smile played on Nikolaus’ lips. “You look incredible for your age.”

“Thank you.” Warmth spread within her body.

“Both of my daughters are in college too,” Nikolaus said. “I divorced when my girls were young. My ex-wife grew tired of my endless nights and days away from home, but understood the nature of my position.”

“I’m sure it is a very demanding job to manage so many companies,” Gwen said.

“It is. And now I’m ready to sit back and relax.” Nikolaus lifted his wrist and glanced at his watch.

Stephen shook his head. “Time to go?”

“Yes, we should.” Nikolaus turned to Gwen. “Would you like to join us for dinner?”

Excitement fluttered through her body. Although a bubble bath and relaxing night appealed to her tired feet and body, she’d rather make friends with charming men, especially since it seemed she wouldn’t be able to see a show at the Opera House. “I’d like that.”

“Excellent. Have you tried any of Vienna’s fine cuisine?” Nikolaus asked.

“I admit I haven’t tried much at all. This is my second day here.”

He extended an arm. “Then we will take you to
Zum Schwarzen Kameel
and you can taste the exquisite food Vienna has to offer.”

Stephen led the way down a long hall. Anxiety stirred within Gwen as she walked next to the two men. Leaving with them reminded her of Rome. Leo and Paolo were brothers who’d invited her to cruise and a little playtime in the form of a ménage on their yacht. Would Stephen and Nikolaus tempt her to join them too? What were the odds of such a thing?

She shook the thought from her mind. It was a crazy idea. But for heaven’s sakes, what was going on with her? Was she becoming some kind of fuck-me magnet? In every city she ventured into, she’d bumped into a handsome and generous man, or two, then had ended up doing the dirty deed with them. She’d had more sex on her trip then she’d had in over fifteen years. Not that she was complaining. No. She had enjoyed every minute with each wonderful man, and every orgasm.

“I appreciate your kindness,” Gwen said as they reached an exit.

Stephen pushed open an exit and sunlight filled the hall. He held the door and Gwen stepped outside. A long black car with tinted windows waited in a small alley. She came to a halt a few feet from the vehicle and waited for Nikolaus. He walked from the building and stopped beside her.

“I’m glad you decided to join us. You won’t be disappointed.” Nikolaus winked at her, then opened the back door of the car.

Her heart jumped. She sensed the night would be a very happy one.

Chapter Two

The drive to the restaurant lasted maybe ten minutes by Gwen’s estimate. During the ride, Nikolaus and Stephen had sat facing her. While Stephen had checked his phone, Nikolaus had kept her talking. He’d asked where she’d visited and planned to go during her stay. After she’d informed him, he’d suggested a few sights for her to consider.

“They sound like nice places, but my main goal in coming here was to see a show at the Opera House. If one of you can somehow get me inside to see the performance tomorrow night, I would be ever so grateful.”

Stephen pushed his phone into his pocket as he looked at Nikolaus. He said something softly in German. Nikolaus listened while his gaze remained fixed on her.

“I’m sure we can work something out,” Nikolaus said with a crooked grin.

Work something out. What did that mean? Did he want her to fuck him in exchange for a ticket? Gwen didn’t like the idea of bribery, but she had mainly come to Vienna to view a show in the Opera House. He was sexy for an older man and had a unique charm, but enticing her to have sex with him for admittance to the Opera seemed wrong. But did it really matter? Would she miss a chance in a lifetime because her conscience rejected an exchange involving sex? Her stupid conscience needed to shut the hell up.

The car came to a stop. A valet opened the door and extended his hand towards her. She took it and left the dark confines of the vehicle. Purse in hand, she waited on the sidewalk for Nikolaus and Stephen. They joined her in little time.

“This way,” Nikolaus said as Stephen led the way towards an entrance with a camel etched on the glass.

Stephen and Gwen stepped inside what appeared to be a bar. The entire length of one wall was lined with tidy rows of liquor bottles. Only a few patrons sat in chairs in front of the counter.

“This way.” Stephen strode towards another room.

They left marble floors and stepped into a cream-coloured room with gold trim, lit by elaborate modern chandeliers. White tablecloths covered the tables with a vase of flowers on each. A light beef aroma lingered with a touch of spices. Although Gwen had no idea about the type of food served, she had a feeling anything she’d put in her mouth would taste delicious.

Stephen walked to the back of the small room and stopped first in front of a tall counter. An older man with grey hair and a moustache approached. Nikolaus passed her and conversed with the greeter.

Gwen twisted to face Stephen. “Do you come here often?”

“With Nikolaus, yes.”

Nikolaus turned his gaze and gestured for her. “Come. He has a private table for us.”

Gwen followed the grey-haired greeter past an open doorway on the side. She walked by more white-clothed tables waiting for guests. Rugs covering the hard wood floors muted the clacks of her heels. Oil paintings with thick ornate frames added a sense of elegance. Light from the windows passed through sheer curtains and bounced off the soft cream-coloured portion of the walls, illuminating the area. From one room they entered another quiet one. The man with the moustache stopped at a table with a wraparound red velvet bench and two chairs. He smiled widely and gestured for her to sit.

Following a nod, Gwen lowered herself into the booth and scooted to the back to face the chairs. Nikolaus opted for the spot next to her on the cushioned seat. He moved towards her until his knee nearly brushed against hers. Stephen sat across from her.

“Do you like wine?” Nikolaus asked.

“Yes, preferably red.”

He looked up at the older man and said something Gwen didn’t understand. Seconds later, the greeter disappeared.

“This is a nice place. It smells heavenly in here,” Gwen said.

“The food is delicious. I have never had a bad meal,” Nikolaus said.

“The President eats here from time to time,” Stephen added.

“Really? Maybe he can get me into the show tomorrow night.”

Stephen and Nikolaus chuckled.

“I’m sure he could. For my sake, I hope he doesn’t show up,” Nikolaus said.

A young woman with long hair tied behind her head appeared from the adjoining room. She wore dark pants and a white shirt with a black apron covering her lower front. Holding long menus, she strode towards them.

The waitress stopped at the table and handed each of them a menu. She spoke in their native language and Gwen couldn’t understand a word. Nikolaus nodded and replied to her before he shifted his attention to Gwen.

“Do you have a preference for anything?” he asked.

“I’m not a picky eater. I love seafood, pasta, bread, and just about anything. I don’t have any food allergies, so I can eat whatever you select.”

“Are you sure you don’t mind?” Nikolaus asked.

“Not at all. I love experimenting.” She grinned at him.

He cocked a brow and chuckled. “Are we talking about food?”

“Food comes in many forms.”

His grin widened. “You are a woman of a special class. I like you, Gwen, and I must know more about you.”

She stared into his twinkling blue eyes. Desire burned within her. “I’d like for you to know me as well.”

Stephen cleared his throat, stealing Nikolaus’ attention. “I believe they want our orders.”

Nikolaus rambled off his request while Stephen reviewed the menu options. The waitress’ hand moved fast as she wrote on a small tablet. At the same time, a waiter emerged with a bottle of wine and filled the glasses on the table. Nikolaus finally finished and Gwen wondered if he’d selected everything available. Stephen’s selection was quick compared to Nikolaus’.

After the employees walked away, Nikolaus lifted his wine. “A toast to Gwen. May your journey in Vienna be one filled with exceptional pleasure and lasting memories.”

Gwen picked up her glass as Stephen did. “Now that is a toast I fully support.” She clanked her drink with theirs, then they each took a sip of their wine.

“So, you’re here alone,” Nikolaus said as he set his liquor on the table.

Gwen swallowed. “Yes. I’m on vacation. As I mentioned earlier, my daughters are grown. I decided to cash in on some of my accrued leave from my job and travel to Europe for five weeks. Here I am.”

“I’ve always want to travel abroad for several weeks,” Stephen said. “I doubt my wife and three children are up to it. Maybe in ten or so years.”

“Are your kids young?” Gwen asked.

“Five, seven and ten,” Stephen said.

“Wow. I bet they keep you busy.” Gwen smiled.

“Yes, they do and I love them dearly. Perhaps when they are grown my wife and I can travel as you are.”

Gwen nodded. “I highly encourage you to do it. I’ve met amazing people and had the most wonderful time in every place I’ve stopped.” She lifted her palm and held it towards the two of them. “Here is a perfect example. I’m having dinner at a fancy restaurant with two very successful men.”

Stephen lifted his drink in a toast, then leant back in his chair. “Point well taken.”

“I never thought anything like this would happen, but when certain opportunities arise, I consider them,” Gwen said.

“A little risk taking is good for the soul,” Nikolaus said. “Among other things.”

Gwen smiled innocently. “My choices so far have been well worthwhile. I have enjoyed every adventure and the memories will last forever.” Especially since she wrote down every detail in her journal. If she lived to see her eightieth birthday, she’d read her diary and recall the wonderful time she’d had.

“Is there a husband or boyfriend back home?” Nikolaus asked.

She shook her head and held her chin up slightly. “No, I’m a free woman.”

Nikolaus reached for his wine. “I admire a woman who values her freedom.”

Gwen chuckled. “Oh, I highly treasure it. No question about it. Freedom is a blessing when certain opportunities spring up.”

One of Nikolaus’ eyebrows rose and he slipped her a grin before hiding it with the glass pressed to his lips.

“Have you travelled to many places here in Europe?” Stephen asked as he unfolded a white cloth and laid it across his lap.

“I spent some time in London, Paris and Rome so far. In a few days, I’m heading to Amsterdam. My last stop is in Ireland.”

“Did you visit the Louvre?” Stephen asked.

“Yes.”

Nikolaus set his drink on the table. “How did you like it?”

“Uh… Well, I was a little preoccupied, so I didn’t get to spend much time admiring the artwork.”

A touch of heat rushed to her head and she quickly grabbed her glass. ‘Preoccupied’ was an understatement. Shortly after she’d met the handsome French actor, Pierre, he’d taken her to a secluded room to share his own form of art with her. He’d fucked her among priceless artefacts. The art she’d viewed in the Louvre was unquestionably incredible, but the sex was even better and she’d never forget having sex in the museum.

Nikolaus leant back and unbuttoned his suit jacket. “I do hope your visit was a pleasurable one.”

Swallowing the liquor, she nodded. “It certainly was. I enjoyed a satisfying jaunt to the Eiffel Tower too.”

Nikolaus quirked his lips. The shimmer in his eyes seemed to indicate he understood the true meaning behind her words.

“I will have to make sure your time in Vienna is well spent,” Nikolaus said as he slyly placed his hand on her knee.

Gwen couldn’t help but smile while her heart rate accelerated. The game of seduction was afoot and she suspected he’d play well. “I’m always grateful for company to show me around.”