All That Glitters
Stella Hardy clutched the engraved invitation to her chest. Her body trembled with anticipation as she stared up at the glittering facade of the Hedonist Spa and Beauty Retreat. The invitation was a gift from her boss, a treasured passport into a golden world for one exotic weekend.
“Okay, girl, get a grip,” she muttered to herself. “It’s just a fancy hotel for the rich and unbearably beautiful.”
Stella climbed the marble stairs to the entrance, pushing through the ornately carved door into the lobby of the most elegant hotel she’d ever seen. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, casting an amber glow over the room. Women dressed in red silk evening gowns and men in black tuxedos wandered about the lobby, greeting friends and exchanging pleasantries.
“Welcome to the Hedonist. How may I help you?” asked the receptionist.
Stella slid her invitation across the desk.
“Ah, you’re Ms. Sinclair’s virgin guest.”
Stella blushed. “Yes, it’s my first visit. Ms. Sinclair was kind enough to invite me for the weekend.”
“Most kind, indeed. Ms. Sinclair is our High Priestess, and as such, she’ll be presiding over the evening ritual. On behalf of our members, we bid you welcome. If there’s anything you need, feel free to ask. We’ll do our utmost to provide whatever your heart desires while you’re with us.”
“Oh, my,” said Stella. “I feel like Cinderella at the ball.”
“A most suitable feeling,” said the receptionist. “Edgar will escort you to your room. You’ll find an evening gown has been laid out, and a maid waiting to help you dress. The evening’s ritual will begin promptly at seven, with dinner to follow.”
Stella’s room was filled with the bridal scent of orange blossoms and roses. Arrangements of white lilies mingled with blood red roses to decorate ebony table tops. A diamond and pearl encrusted white lace evening gown was draped across the bed, waiting to transport her to the glittering world of her dreams.
“Holy fairy dust,” she whispered.
Edgar was outside the door, waiting to escort her downstairs for the festivities.
“Everyone’s so young and beautiful,” said Stella as they entered the dining room. “Do you know their secret, Edgar?”
“Our members… make sacrifices.”
“I guess giving up a few decadent desserts isn’t much of a sacrifice when you look that exquisite,” said Stella, nodding toward her boss. Ms. Sinclair was draped in black and silver robes, her ivory body glowing under the sheer fabric. As she raised her hand in welcome, Stella saw a jewel encrusted dagger.
Edgar led Stella forward, placing her on the altar of Hedone.
“Not that kind of sacrifice, ma’am.”