Eye of the Beholder

everything else. "That girl doesn't need another father in her life," he'd said. "She needs a man who can show her that not all men are like her father."
    Somehow in his own quiet, solid, dependable way, he had become very important to her over the years. It was Lloyd who had taught her how to drive, helped her select a college, instructed her in the fundamentals of running her own business.
    Patient, solid, dependable Lloyd. She was surprised by the hot rush of protective loyalty she felt toward him.
    "When it comes to judging people, Lloyd's track record isn't perfect," Alexa said.
    "What do you mean?"
    "Don't you remember? Twelve years ago he said that Trask would not come back."
    "I remember." Vivien paused. "I also recall that you said Trask would return some day."
    "I was right."

5

    Trask stroked the stylized wings of one of the two massive marble condors that guarded the lobby staircase.
    "It looks like something that fell off the top of the Chrysler Building ," he said.
    A pained expression appeared in Edward Vale's eyes. It vanished as quickly as it had come, replaced by the serene arrogance of authority.
    "It's considered an excellent example of the Aztec and Mayan influence on the Deco sculptural style."
    "How much did I pay for them?"
    Edward was unable to conceal another wince. "I'd have to check the paperwork, but I believe we purchased the pair of condors for something in the neighborhood of twenty thousand."
    It was Trask's turn to wince. "That's a hell of a neighborhood. Twenty grand? For two marble birds?"
    "We were fortunate to get them," Edward assured him. "They were previously in the hands of a private collector. If it hadn't been for my, uh, contact in the Deco market, I wouldn't have even been aware that they were for sale."
    "Guess I should be grateful that your contact found a couple of condors instead of a pair of pink flamingos."
    Edward cleared his throat. "The sculptures make a brilliant frame for this truly outstanding staircase."
    Trask took a step back and studied the unabashedly exotic lines of the cascading staircase. It was the focal point of the ornate lobby, the sort of staircase that women clad in satin evening gowns descended with languid grace in old Gary Grant films.
    Trask reminded himself that he knew a good fantasy when he saw one.
    "You're right, Vale. The birds suit the staircase."
    Edward relaxed slightly. "I'm glad you're pleased."
    Trask turned slowly on his heel, surveying the rest of the lobby. From the elaborate wrought iron and etched glass fixtures that produced a sultry ambient light to the richly lacquered end tables and the low, sweeping curves of the chairs, it was a complete universe. The lobby reeked of a dark, smoldering sexuality and between-the-wars decadence. The entire effect was anchored by the antiques and objets d'art that were strategically showcased throughout the hotel.
    He knew that when guests stepped through the front doors they would walk into another time and place, a world in which sophisticated romance and dangerous intrigues seemed possible.
    He had bought and paid for a fantasy, and that was exactly what had been delivered.
    "You did a good job, Vale. Looks like I got my money's worth."
    "Thank you." Edward glowed with relief. "May I say that you've created a very unique vision here at the Avalon Resort & Spa. I'm sure your guests will be enthralled."
    "Has all of the art arrived on site?"
    "Yes." Edward cleared his throat. "With the exception of one bronze that will be installed at the end of the hallway in the west wing this afternoon."
    "Fine. Then we're set."
    "Yes, indeed." Edward smiled broadly. "I can assure you that, so far as the art collection is concerned, everything will be in place for the reception."
    "Good. My PR people are counting on the art and antiques to pull in the media."
    "I understand. I'm sure it will have the desired effect."
    "It damned well better have the right effect," Trask said. "I paid enough for it."
    The sound of footsteps on tile caught his attention. He glanced over his shoulder and saw Pete Santana striding swiftly toward him.
    Pete had worked for Avalon Resorts, Inc., for four years. He was an outgoing, high-energy type with a keen eye for the subtle details that made the difference between four stars and five in the travel guides.
    "Sorry to interrupt." Pete came to a halt. He acknowledged Edward with a quick nod and then looked at Trask. "I've got a meeting with the head of security in a few