Pia sighed. "She is supposed to take your luggage to your room, and blend into the background, not openly proposition the guests."
Alex laughed. "This one was meant to stand out, Pia. Do not hide her away." She let go of Gina's hand and placed a finger under the young woman's chin, lifting it slightly to look into her eyes. "I would suggest you are more careful with the blatant come-ons though. At least until you know how they will be received. It wouldn't do to have this gorgeous face slapped here in front of everyone."
A cocky grin slid across her full lips as one eyebrow rose slightly. "Do you mean to tell me I read you incorrectly?"
Alex laughed as she ran her finger across the strong jawbone before dropping her hand. "No, little one, not at all. If I were ten years younger and not already spoken for, you'd be in trouble." She pointed out the rest of the luggage. "These two go upstairs, and the other two go in the downstairs bedroom."
Pia shook her head as she watched Gina walk away with a distinct roll in her hips. "That girl is going to be the death of me." She turned back to Alex with a smile. "It is good to see you, old friend. I love the short hair, it makes you look much younger." She gave her a quick hug. "Why don't you introduce me to your companions while I show you to your suite? I hate to rush, but I have a conference call scheduled with corporate in about fifteen minutes."
"Of course." Alex turned and held her hand out to Nikki. She smiled when she reached out and grasped it, their fingers entwining. "Guys this is my friend Pia. She is the VP of Operations of this fine establishment."
Pia bowed and swept her hand towards the elevators. "Please follow me ladies. I will show you to your suite." They all fell in step behind her as she moved purposely through the lobby. After pushing the call button she turned back to the group.
Alex gestured towards Rachel and said, "Pia, these are my very good friends. This is Rachel, and this is her wife Dani."
"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Pia ushered everyone into the elevator and looked pointedly at Nikki as the car began its ascent. "Who is this lovely creature, Alex?"
Alex stepped between Pia and Nikki, forcing the taller woman to look down at her. "This is my partner, Nikki."
Pia's eyes widened and she looked quickly between the two women. "You weren't just brushing Gina off, you were serious?" The door opened interrupting the conversation. They all stepped out into the wide hallway where Pia stepped around the group, and lead them over to the entrance to the Presidential Suite. She held the door open allowing everyone to file in.
Alex reached into her purse and pulled out several folded bills. She reached for Gina who stood off to the side waiting patiently for them to enter. She grasped Alex's hand, slipped the money from her fingers, and brought her palm to her lips. Alex felt the brief flick of her tongue before the press of her lips to her palm covered it. She inhaled sharply and saw the triumph in Gina's eyes.
"Please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with…ma'am."
Alex pulled her hand from her grasp. "Cheeky girl." She took a step back and smiled. "I think you've done quite enough. Thank you, Gina." The young woman bowed and quickly left the room when she saw her boss glare at her.
Pia walked over to the bar, pulled out a decanter of amber liquid, and splashed some in a glass. "I had forgotten how much attention you attract, Alex. I can tell this is going to be an interesting trip."
Alex frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Pia drained her glass and set it gently on the bar. "Sera moved here about six months ago." She closed her eyes and rubbed the back of her neck. "She found out you were coming to town, and wants to see you."
"Why does that bother you?"
Pia looked over at her with a sad smile. "You're a very difficult woman to forget, Alex. And even more difficult to compete with."
She watched the emotions as they washed over her friend's face. "Oh my God." She walked up to Pia and placed a hand on her cheek. "Have you told her?" She saw the confusion in the dark brown eyes and answered the unasked question. "Have you told her you're in love with her?" She dropped her hand as Pia began to shake her head.
"No." Pia looked down at her watch. "I should be going. My conference call is quickly approaching."
Alex stepped back. "Do you have time to meet with me today? I'd like to take care of our business quickly so we can enjoy Venice."
"I will clear my schedule. Why don't you come down to my office in thirty minutes?"
"Sure, but what about this call? I thought it was important."
Pia grinned. "Not as important as the owner of Perfetta Armonia. I'm sure the corporate office will agree."
Alex chuckled as she held the door open. "I'm glad I can get you out of a boring call. I'll see you shortly." She closed the door and turned around. Nikki leaned against the back of the loveseat watching her, while Rachel and Dani looked out over the water to the larger group of islands to the north.
Rachel turned, the look on her face difficult to decipher. "This place is amazing, Alex."
"Yes, it is. I always stay here when I'm in town." She pointed to the staircase. "There is a king size bed upstairs along with a jetted tub, shower large enough for two, and a balcony overlooking the waterway. That is all for you two lovebirds. Your bags are already there. Nikki and I will stay down here in the room with the twin beds."
Dani laughed, grabbed Rachel's hand,
