Be Our Ghost, page 18
part #1 of The Duchess Hotel #2 Series
“Thanks. I already stashed my costume in my office, so I wouldn’t forget it.”
“I can’t believe I’m voluntarily dressing up twice in one weekend,” he grumbled. “What have you done to me?”
By now, she could tell when he was using his grouchy voice to tease her versus actually being crabby. Even if he was still kind of a curmudgeon, he’d changed a lot over the past two months. Like last night, when he’d given his all at the Lily’s costume party. Or during the times he’d confided in her, telling her stories about his life in Vancouver. Or listened to her when she was stressed about her mom.
“After this, I promise we won’t have to dress up again until next Halloween. Unless you want to indulge in a little role play.” She thought that might get a laugh out of him, but his brow furrowed. “Did I say something wrong?”
“I saw how much fun you had last night. Me, not so much. I could handle it for one night, but I’m not a fan of crowds or parties. I don’t want to stop you from having a good time.”
This had to be a Lila thing. Why else would he be so concerned? Was he afraid she’d tire of him? Or tell him their relationship lacked passion? Far from it.
“I like social events, but if that’s not your thing, I’m okay with it,” she said. “I have other friends who are into that stuff. But I love it when we spend time together, even if we’re just walking in the park or lazing in bed. Being with you makes me feel special, and…”
I’m in love with you.
She hadn’t told him yet. He might worry she was rushing into things. But she was sure of it. Though they hadn’t been dating for long, she’d spent months yearning for him, hoping he’d eventually realize she was right there. Ever since they’d teamed up to work on the ghost-hunting show, her feelings had grown even stronger.
Maybe tonight, after the gala was over, she’d summon up the courage to tell him.
Or maybe in November, when their lives were a little calmer.
But definitely before Christmas.
He kissed her forehead. “You make me feel special, too. Now, go jump in the shower. Once you’re dressed, I’ll drive you to work, and we’ll stop for coffee and donuts along the way.”
At five, when Charlie walked into the lobby of the Grand Duke Hotel, she could barely conceal her apprehension. Up until tonight, she hadn’t worried that much about the gala. Even if it was a huge deal, she’d been too busy to think about it, what with everything going on at the hotel: Spooky Saturdays, preparations for the ghost-hunting show, and last night’s costume party. But over the course of the day, as the event loomed nearer, she’d turned into a jittery mess.
While Knox’s Phantom mask effectively hid his face, she was afraid of what might happen if Evan discovered him. Would he treat Knox decently or strike out in anger?
It didn’t help that she’d barely eaten. In addition to her morning coffee fix, she’d only had two donuts, a bag of white chocolate pretzels, and a pumpkin bar from Spooky Saturday. While the sugar rush had given her a temporary high, the resulting crash was making her edgy.
Not that she’d told Knox any of this. Considering what a big risk he was taking, she needed to be the calm one.
Thankfully, her dress was light and comfortable. Not like poor Knox, who was stuck wearing a black tuxedo jacket, a long black cape, and a mask that covered most of his face. Following the signs in the hotel lobby, she led him to the ballroom, which she’d visited once for a friend’s wedding. She remembered it being glamorous, but nothing like this.
The enormous ballroom had been transformed, containing dozens of realistic-looking oak trees, dripping with moss. Flickering candles appeared among the tree branches, and thousands of fairy lights twinkled above. Interspersed among the trees were round banquet tables, adorned with elaborate centerpieces, complete with vintage lanterns and rustic greenery. The total effect was like being in an enchanted forest, other than the wall at the front of the ballroom, which housed a raised stage and a huge projector screen.
“What do you think?” she asked Knox. “Does it feel like you’re back in the forest?” The ethereal music, taken from the show’s soundtrack, was a nice touch.
“A little, but we filmed most of the exteriors in an actual forest. This isn’t bad, though.”
She and Knox checked in with the event manager, a tall Black woman named Denise, who was dressed as Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty.
Denise led them over to a station in a corner of the ballroom and handed Knox a set of laminated cards. “Here are all the wines, beers, and ciders available, as well as the bottled liqueurs. We’re also offering three specialty cocktails themed to match the show.”
Knox reviewed the cards. “Alejandro sent me the list of cocktails earlier, so I got a chance to practice making them.”
“Good to hear. Since it’s an open bar, you won’t have to worry about taking payment, but hopefully, our guests will still feel the need to tip. You can use this jar.” Denise pointed to a mason jar painted with an elaborate forest scene and illuminated with more fairy lights.
Knox chuckled. “That’s the fanciest tip jar I’ve ever seen.”
Denise gave a delicate snort. “Isn’t it, though? They were custom made. Anyway, the cash tips are yours to keep. There’s also a card with a QR code if people prefer to use credit cards. Those tips will be split among all the bartenders, and you’ll get your share once everything’s settled up. If you need anything replenished, runners will be stopping by to check on your inventory. And—in case Alejandro didn’t mention it—you need to act like professionals. No asking for selfies or autographs.”
“Got it.” Charlie looked over the laminated cards. The small selection of wines and liqueurs was minimal compared to the wide variety offered at the Gilded Lily. Once Denise had left, she addressed Knox in a low voice. “Does this seem doable?”
“Definitely, though I’m glad I practiced making those cocktails ahead of time. Otherwise, the setup is incredibly basic. Plus, I saw three other stations scattered around the ballroom, and a larger bar beside the stage. I guess they don’t want anyone to stand in line for too long.”
“Makes sense. At my friend’s wedding, they didn’t have enough bartenders. Once the dancing started, the drink line took forever.” She glanced around the room, taking in the elaborate decor. “This event must have cost a fortune.”
He shrugged. “Probably, but it’s nothing compared to some of the outrageous stuff I’ve seen. Back when I worked on the show, we had a huge blowout after we won awards for the second season.”
She wanted to ask him more about it, but her time would be better spent reviewing the list of instructions. Her role was to assist guests who had simple requests, like a bottle of water or a glass of wine. Earlier that week, she’d practiced her pouring skills with him, while he played the role of a snooty customer. They’d polished off an entire bottle of wine before tumbling into bed, all tipsy and amorous.
At six, she placed her hand on his arm. “You ready for this?”
“Yeah. It would be great to see some familiar faces, but I’m not sure who’s still working on the show. I kept up with the gossip for a while after I moved here, but once I got hired at the Duchess, I shut it all out.”
Though he made it sound like a simple decision, she knew how difficult the break had been. And how much it had weighed on him. “Whatever happens, I’m here to support you. We’ll get through it together.”
With any luck, he’d be able to make a few connections and feel like tonight had been worth the effort. While she was glad he was taking this step, she wouldn’t be able to relax until they’d survived the entire event.
Twenty-Three
Knox grew antsy as the first hour of the gala passed at a glacial pace. Little by little, the guests entered the ballroom. The first to arrive were the crew members since the show’s stars never liked showing up early.
“Do you see anyone you know?” Charlie asked.
“A few people from the crew, but that’s it. No one from the writers’ room. Logan told me Evan brought in some new writers after the fourth season, but I was hoping he kept a few of the old guard.” Then again, it would be just like that bastard to clean house completely.
He spotted some of the show’s secondary characters and pointed them out to Charlie. There was no sign of Princess Elodie’s first love, poor Finn the Woodsman.
To Knox’s surprise, he didn’t feel much of anything yet. No heart-wrenching grief. No simmering resentment. No longing to be a part of it. It was like going back to a place he’d visited before, but without the desire to stay there.
As the guests stopped by his station, he greeted them and mixed their drinks but kept his Phantom mask in place. Fortunately, he didn’t have to say much since Charlie was a pro at making small talk. She complimented everyone on their costumes and asked them about their favorite memories of The Hidden Forest.
An hour in, the show’s stars made their appearance. Among them was Lila, all dolled up in a gorgeous, sapphire-blue ball gown and a tiara, looking radiant on Evan’s arm. In Knox’s opinion, her regal garb barely differed from the formal attire she’d worn for the show’s High Court scenes. But seeing Evan dressed as her prince was a new look. A look that made Knox recoil in disgust. That smug fucker didn’t deserve to swan around like royalty.
Knox’s spine stiffened, his hands tightening into fists. How was he supposed to act like everything was normal when the asshole who’d ruined his life hadn’t suffered one bit? The soft cadence of Charlie’s voice took him out of his head. She placed her hands on his shoulders and kneaded them gently, soothing the rage and the bitterness. Once again, he was grateful to have her by his side. Getting through this on his own would have been a lot harder.
After tonight, he’d find a way to thank her. Not just in bed, but with another gesture that showed how much he cared. Like admitting he was in love with her.
Was it too soon? Maybe so, but he wanted her to know how he felt.
At seven thirty, he and Charlie were able to relax as the guests sat down to enjoy the plated dinner. The smell of roast chicken and vegetables made his stomach growl, but he ignored it. Once the gala ended, he was hoping to find an all-night diner where they could indulge in burgers and fries.
Halfway through dinner, the lights dimmed, and a video played on the screen. Knox could barely see it from his vantage point, but the audio came through clearly. The video contained a compilation of clips drawn from the show’s best-loved scenes. He listened intently, smiling as he recognized dialogue he’d written. Included in the clips were the jaw-dropping final scene from the end of the second season, when the Fae King’s devious plan was revealed, as well as the tender moment when Princess Elodie and Finn confessed their love for each other.
“I can’t believe you wrote so much of this,” Charlie whispered. “I’m so impressed.”
His heart swelled with pride. How many people could make a claim like that? To have created a show that was part of the pop culture lexicon, that would be remembered long after it ended. Even if he didn’t run into any of his old friends, coming here tonight had been the right move. It was a chance to bask in his accomplishments, to celebrate everything he’d achieved before Evan had stripped it away from him.
Once dinner ended, people flocked back to the beverage stations. A rush of drink orders kept him hopping until his line dwindled to just two people—the very writers he’d hoped to see. Zack Wilder—a tall, lanky guy with messy black hair—was dressed as the Grim Reaper, complete with a metal scythe. Beside him was Norah Chen, a petite woman with short dark hair and glasses, wearing a red polka-dot dress and Minnie Mouse ears.
“I can’t believe they haven’t kicked us out yet,” Zack said to Norah. “When I ran into Evan, he gave me the biggest side-eye ever but didn’t say a damn thing.”
“Enjoy it while you can,” Norah said. She smiled at Knox. “I’ll have a gimlet.”
Zack nudged her. “You’re not going to try a Princess Elodie cocktail?”
She shuddered. “I hate anything with Midori liqueur. Too sweet.”
“All these themed drinks are seriously over-the-top.” Zack leaned his scythe against the bar and offered Knox an apologetic smile. “No offense.”
“None taken. I’m just the bartender.” Setting down his shaker, Knox took a deep breath. He’d never get a better chance than this one. He removed his mask and set it on the bar top beside him. “Though you might have known me in a different incarnation.”
Zack gaped at him. “Fuck me. Is that you, Mac?”
“In the flesh. Though I go by my real name now. Knox McIntyre, at your service. And this is Charlie Fraser, my partner in crime. Charlie, meet Zack and Norah, my two favorite writers from The Hidden Forest.”
Charlie waved at them. “Hi. Nice to meet you.”
“Same here.” Norah shot Knox an evil grin. “Are you planning to take down the gala? If so, then I want in. The show did you so dirty.”
“Didn’t it, though?” Charlie added. “But we aren’t here to make trouble.”
Knox nodded. “I actually signed up to serve drinks on the off chance of running into a few old friends. Like the two of you.”
“I’m still trying to wrap my head around the fact that you’re standing in front of us,” Zack said. “You fucking vanished. Do you know how hard I tried to find you?”
Knox felt a twinge of regret. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have cut everyone off. But…”
“We get it,” Norah said. “I mean, your world went to shit. Especially after Evan did those vile interviews. If it’s any consolation, the writers’ room went downhill from there. Evan brought in a bunch of new guys, and those cocky assholes changed the whole tone of the show.”
“I’ll never forgive them for killing off Finn,” Charlie said.
“Right?” Zack replied. “We got so much backlash.”
“I was devastated when I found out what they did to that character,” Knox added. “Poor Finn didn’t deserve such an agonizing death.”
“Everyone knew Evan did it because Finn reminded him too much of you,” Norah said. “When I pushed back, he had me fired at the end of the season.”
“Same with me.” Zack set down the laminated card listing the wine selections. “I’ll take a glass of the Pinot Noir.”
“Coming right up.” Knox handed Norah her gimlet. “You both left the show? How did you score an invite to the gala?”
Zack laughed. “I’m here as Tyson’s plus-one. We got married last year.”
“That’s great. Congrats.” Knox had always liked working with Tyson, who’d headed up the design department. “What about you, Norah?”
“I’m good friends with Waverly Zhou, who works in costuming, so she invited me to join her. But I’m sure Evan isn’t happy to see either of us. After you left the show and he spread those rumors about you going into rehab, we called him on his bullshit. Which left us with big targets on our backs.”
“Sorry.” Knox passed Zack his glass of wine. “I never wanted anyone else to suffer on my behalf.”
“Don’t apologize,” Zack said. “My last year on the show was so unbearable I was glad to leave. I got a gig writing for Siren Squad, and it’s been great.”
Charlie clasped her hands together. “I love that series. It’s so cool that it features female crime-fighters.”
“I’m doing a script rewrite for a locked room thriller. It’s got an Agatha Christie vibe.” Norah took a business card out of her cherry-red clutch and handed it to Knox. “If you ever want to get back into the business, hit me up. Ever since I started working as a script doctor, I’ve got more projects than I can handle.”
Knox could barely contain his relief in learning that Zack and Norah had never given up on him. “Thanks. I haven’t written anything in years, but I’m starting to get that itch again.”
“It never goes away, does it?” Norah said. “Now that you’ve got my contact info, don’t be a stranger. I’m heading back to Vancouver tomorrow, but the next time you come to the mainland, I’d love to see you.”
Zack passed him a card. “Same here. Don’t disappear again.”
Knox tucked the business cards in his back pocket. “I won’t. I’m not on social media, but you can find me at the Duchess Hotel.”
Charlie grinned at them. “He’s the head bartender at a 1920s-style cocktail lounge called the Gilded Lily. If you come back to Victoria, you should stop in for a drink.”
“Will do,” Zack said. “We’re going to bounce in a bit, but we need to get together soon. This time, I’m not waiting five years to see you again.”
“You got it. Thanks.” Knox watched them leave, grateful no one was in line. This way, he could take a few minutes to process the feelings coursing through him. While he regretted the five years he’d spent in the wilderness, shutting out the people who could have offered him support, at least now he could finally make up for it.
“Knox?” Charlie gave him a gentle poke. “If you go to Vancouver to meet up with Zack and Norah, can you bring me with you?”
He regarded her with affection. “Sure, but we’ll probably spend most of our time telling war stories. I wouldn’t want to bore you.”
“Are you kidding? I’d love a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the show. I promise not to act like too much of a fangirl.”
“You can fangirl around me anytime, sweetheart.”
At the sight of a group headed for his station, he grabbed his mask and put it back on. Even if he’d made the right call in revealing his face to Zack and Norah, he didn’t want to press his luck.
At ten, the show’s producers came onto the stage and addressed the crowd. They extolled all the ways in which the show had succeeded: major awards, merchandising opportunities, and devoted fandoms. Cast appearances at places like San Diego Comic-Con and Fan Expo Canada. The spin-off novels and plans for a feature-length film. They thanked the cast and crew for making The Hidden Forest come to life.
