Chapter 13: Cambria and Erodreamarts.

February 5, 2024, 10:00 AM, Dreamside.
"You know, we could've gone in my Tesla. You don't have to drive at all," Alex says, sitting in the front passenger seat next to Lila. She wears dark blue trousers and a dark blue deep-cut blazer with nothing visible underneath. Alex wears black trousers and a white shirt. "Well, it's fine. Reminds me of when I was a kid."
Alex sighs, then mimics Lila's voice from a few minutes ago. "'Dana wants you there because she likes working with authors face-to-face. Because this is a big deal. Because she thinks you're worth the effort.'"
He looks at her. Lila holds the wheel and watches the road. "Maybe I'm not strong in English grammar, but I work for the publishing house, not in the publishing house. I think if Dana could, she'd take me away from Kate and keep me at her place. A beloved pet-writer."
Lila chuckles and glances at him before focusing back on the road. The morning sun filters through the windshield and casts warm light across her face. "She's invested in you, Alex. That's not a bad thing." She shifts gears smoothly as they approach a stop sign, her manicured fingers resting lightly on the gearshift. "And yes, you work for her. But she's also invested in your growth. That's why she's pushing you on this."
Alex sighs and looks at the road. "I know. Look, I'm grateful to everyone for everything, and especially to Dana. More precisely, first I'm grateful to our dear Chase Runker, who introduced me to Dana… And then to Dana herself." He shifts his gaze back to Lila. "But on the other hand, it's good. I mean the fact that we're going to Sogni Nudi. It helps distract me from my inner complexes and fears, all driven by my insecurity about Kate and Brian's date at Topanga Canyon Inn this evening. As well as my second lesson with tutor Sarah today at 3 PM, where she'll be working on the grammar of a non-native English speaker like me. And I'm grateful to Sarah that she won't tell anyone. Do we really need to repeat our entire conversation from my office forty minutes ago?"
Alex playfully raises his eyebrows. Lila smirks as she navigates a curve, her fingers tightening slightly on the wheel. "Oh, I think we do," she says, tilting her head just enough to glance at him. "Because I can still see how tense you are about it all. The date. The writing lessons. Sarah."
She chuckles softly. "And let's be honest—you wouldn't have said that if you didn't want me to reassure you."
Alex claps his hands lightly, mimicking applause. "Bravo! You figured it out! Calming me down—that's your duty as my assistant and friend. And anyway, it was you who arranged my grammar lessons with Sarah. Have I already told you that I can neither refuse Sarah nor give her what she wants? You set all this up because of the situation with Brian and Kate, admit it. For four years you didn't care that my English writing was crap. And suddenly you decided to fix everything."
He narrows his eyes and adds playfully, "You're not just an aspiring model and my assistant. Right? You're a sneaky ass in disguise. You're competing for the title of the sneakiest ass in Dreamside. Maybe even in all of California."
Lila's smirk widens as she keeps her focus on the road, her fingers dancing lightly over the wheel. "Oh, Alex," she sighs, shaking her head. "You give me far too much credit. I just happen to have a vested interest in keeping you useful." She glances at him, her brown eyes glinting with playful intent. "And yes, I might have thought it would be amusing to see how you react when Sarah starts pushing you around. She's relentless."
"Starts pushing me around?" Alex raises an eyebrow in mocking astonishment. "Lila, I went through my femdom phase back in my teenage years. I just love Kate and don't want to break Sarah's heart. But you clearly set your friend up, convincing her to tutor me in English grammar with the calculation that she and I would get together."
Alex stretches, loosening his limbs. "You still won't tell me what Dana wants from me that we had to drag ourselves straight to her office? Soon she'll lay it all out for me herself, and it's going to be some fucked-up shit, right?"
Lila lets out a soft, knowing chuckle as she pulls the car into the underground parking garage of Sogni Nudi. The fluorescent lights buzz overhead, casting a sterile glow over the immaculate white walls and polished floor. She kills the engine and turns to Alex, leaning against the door with her arms crossed. "Oh, you have no idea how much fun you're in for," she says, her face bright with mischief. "Dana has been trying to get you to take on a new project for months now. And today, she's got something special planned."
She unbuckles her seatbelt and pushes open the door, stepping out into the cool air of the garage. Alex gets out too, slams the door, and casually straightens his black trousers and white shirt. He looks at Lila, who wears dark blue trousers and a deep-cut dark blue blazer with nothing underneath—or at least nothing visible.
"Oh, don't we look gorgeous, like we just showed up at the AVN Awards… Though the social events at Sogni Nudi feel more or less the same," Alex says thoughtfully, with sarcasm. "Well, fine. Let's do this quickly before the female staff start attacking me with hints of 'let me blow you.' Oh…"
Lila barks out a laugh as she locks the car with a beep. Her heels click sharply against the concrete while she strides toward the elevator. "Please, Alex," she says over her shoulder, amusement thick in her voice. "You know every woman in this building would rather pin you down and ride you than suck your dick. Not that they wouldn't do both, of course."
She punches the elevator button, arms crossed, and waits for the doors. "But don't pretend you hate the attention. You eat it up when Kate's around."
"I enjoy Kate's company, not the way other girls look at me when I'm with her," Alex replies as they step inside. "And let's be honest: yeah, I'm probably envied by plenty of so-called incels. But some girls like me purely because I'm an erotic writer. It's like women getting wet over a handsome gynecologist. Considering erotica is my job, it's a miracle I'm not tired of sex. You know how it goes when a hobby becomes a job—it gets old. So far, I'm holding up."
He raises a finger and adds comically, "And that's all thanks to Kate! If it weren't for her, I would've burned out creatively and sexually long ago!"
The elevator doors slide shut. The subtle hum of the motor fills the space as Lila presses the button for the top floor. She smirks at Alex, leaning against the railing. "Oh, I bet you'd have found some other way to keep the spark alive, Baby Boy. Some guys just can't handle not getting laid every day." Her voice stays light but carries an edge of challenge.
"Even without Kate, you'd probably sneak off with one of your readers or something."
The elevator rises. Through the glass walls, the parking garage drops away below them.
"Besides," Lila continues, "we both know you like being wanted."
"Everyone likes being wanted. That's basic," Alex says. "And don't say scary shit like 'me without Kate.' Who I am now, I owe to Kate, Dana, you, Madi, and Chase. Dana gave me the mansion and didn't demand I sleep with her for it. See? Not everything ties to sex." He sighs. "A lot ties to money—I'm sure she just wrote off expenses by gifting me Château des Rêves… but never mind. Just don't tell Dana about this whole Brian and Kate 'explorations' thing. Okay?"
Lila chuckles, watching him fidget under her gaze. "Don't worry, I won't run to Dana with every little thing. She has better things to worry about than who Kate fucks."
Alex laughs. "Don't start again. Just two days ago, on Saturday, you spent the whole day trolling me with that 'so what if Kate goes to Brian' shit. At the same time you conspired with Becky, planted a bug in our room this morning, and staged everything just to hear what Kate would say to Amy while I was in the shower. Don't pretend you and the other girls aren't bothered."
Lila shrugs, her smirk widening. "I get it—Kate going to Brian for sex isn't normal. But she's your girlfriend, not your possession."
The elevator stops on the top floor. The doors open with a soft chime. Lila steps out first and glances back at him over her shoulder. "Besides, you're not the one getting fucked by him, right?"
"He's fucking me figuratively," Alex answers darkly, with playful sarcasm, as they head toward Dana's office. "And… well… never mind."
He falls silent as they reach the reception desk where Malu Vásquez, Dana's secretary, sits. This morning she wears a bright orange T-shirt and blue leggings with massive hoop earrings. She stares at her computer, chuckling, then looks up as they approach.
"Hey, Lila! Alex! Long time no see!" Her thick Mexican accent sounds warm as she leans forward. "Dana's just finishing with someone, but she said to let you in as soon as you got here." She winks at Alex. "She was really excited to see you two today."
Alex forces a smile and runs a hand through his hair. "Great. Thanks, Malu." His voice stays subdued.
Lila nudges him with her elbow. "C'mon, don't look so nervous. It's not like Dana's gonna bite you." She turns to Malu.
Malu leans back, adjusting one of her large hoop earrings while typing with the other hand. "Oh, Alex, you look like a kid about to get scolded by his mom." She giggles, her large almond-shaped brown eyes sparkling with mischief. "But don't worry, Dana's in a great mood this morning."
Alex lets out a nervous chuckle and shifts his weight from foot to foot. "That's... reassuring. I guess." He glances toward Dana's office door, slightly ajar. Through the gap he hears her speaking rapid Italian with someone inside. "Oh, Italian…" Alex says, giggling. "I wonder who she's talking to."
He looks at Lila, then shifts his gaze to Malu. "I thought Spanish dominated here… in every sense." His tone carries clear meaning—most of the female staff at Sogni Nudi are Latin American women from Spanish-speaking countries.
Malu's smile widens. She gestures toward the door with a playful toss of her hair. "Oh, Dana? She speaks five languages fluently—Italian, Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese. She's always multilingual with her business partners." She meets Alex's eyes. "But she definitely prefers speaking Spanish when she's being... intimate."
Lila laughs softly and nudges Alex again. "See? Even when it comes to business, she can't resist the Spanish language." She looks at him. "Though I'm sure she can make English sound just as... persuasive."
Malu nods and leans forward, elbows on the desk. "Exactly."
"I have nothing against Spanish, Lila. Stop bringing it up already. It's been a year…" Alex says, glancing at her. The remark hints at some old conversation whose details they have both nearly forgotten. He turns back to Malu. "And who's Dana with right now, if it's not a secret? Sounds like the second voice is female too…"
Malu taps a pen against her cheek, considering. "Oh, she's just one of her many assistants, Elisabetta. Elisabetta—with two t's. Elisabetta Vespucci. She's Italian-American." She grins. "Elisabetta's been with her for... what, three years now? Dana's very picky about who she works with." Her gaze flickers between Alex and Lila with amusement. "And I mean that in every sense."
Lila snickers and bumps her shoulder against Alex's. "See? You're not the only one who gets special treatment here. I bet Elisabetta's got stories." She winks at Malu.
Malu chuckles and shakes her head. "Oh, I'm sure she does. But we all sign NDAs for a reason."
"Elisabetta Vespucci…" Alex says thoughtfully. "I think I remember her… We crossed paths briefly… about three years ago. Lila, has she ever been to any of Kate's parties?"
Lila shakes her head and taps a finger against her chin. "Not that I remember. She's more... Dana's world than ours. Or maybe Kate just hasn't invited her yet." She glances at Malu. "Or maybe she's just waiting for the right time to introduce her to Kate."
Malu chuckles and leans back in her chair. "Dana's got a knack for introducing people... when it suits her." She shrugs. "Elisabetta's probably seen photos of Kate at parties, though. She's not blind."
"Yes, pretty much all of Dreamside comes to parties at our Château des Rêves, right?" Alex says with a slight chuckle. He looks again at Dana's office door and drags out his words. "And you come to our place too, Malu… right? Actually, Cheryl Hill is way bigger than my and Kate's mansion… So what is it that attracts everyone to us? The atmosphere of a sexy artist with Nordic looks and me—her writerly shadow with panic attacks? That's ridiculous."
Lila giggles and nudges him playfully. "Oh, come on, you know exactly what draws people in. The parties are never boring with Kate around." She wiggles her eyebrows. "And let's be honest—you're part of the appeal too. The whole mysterious writer thing, the way Kate talks about you..."
Malu hums in agreement and taps her pen against the table. "And who doesn't love a little bit of drama? Kate's parties always have that extra spice." She smirks. "Though I suppose Alex isn't really drama, is he? More like... a charming little secret."
Alex tears his gaze away from Dana's office door and folds his arms, looking at Malu. "Alright, mischievous secretary… I get enough mockery at home. Was that supposed to be a hint that I don't show up at my girlfriend's parties in my own house, or what?… Fine, whatever. Do Lila and I still have to wait long? Look at how Lila dressed up." He nods toward her. Lila wears dark blue trousers and a dark blue deep-cut blazer with no top underneath—or at least nothing visible. "Lila picked that outfit straight for Dana. It's practically screaming, 'Take me as your full-time assistant!,' right?"
Malu lets out a throaty chuckle, crosses her legs, and leans forward with her elbows on the desk. "Oh, Alex, you're too easy to tease. You know Lila looks amazing in anything—Dana's not blind either." She gives Lila an appreciative once-over. "Though I will say, if you're trying to get a job here, that outfit might work."
Lila rolls her eyes playfully and adjusts the lapels of her blazer with a smirk. "You're both ridiculous. I just like dressing up, okay? Dana probably already has enough assistants." She turns to Alex and nudges him with her elbow. "And don't pretend you're not enjoying the view."
Alex makes a playful face and looks her up and down. "Well, I already told you this morning that I like everything… But still, too much fabric. A bra and panties would be enough for you." His expression turns satisfied and playful. "Although, that's exactly how you walk around at our place. And yes—don't ask me to say which one of you two—you or Kae—looks more sexy. I'm not falling for that female trick. It'll only end badly for me later."
Lila throws her head back with a rich, warm laugh. "Oh my God, you're so predictable," she says, shaking her head. She turns to Malu with a grin. "He really thinks he's some kind of diplomat when it comes to us. Like we're going to flip tables and start clawing each other just because he won't pick favorites."
Malu chuckles and pushes a pink folder across her desk toward Alex. "Oh, by the way, this is for you, since you're such a connoisseur of female beauty." She taps the folder meaningfully. "It will be in Los Angeles. A little adventure for you, if you want."
"Oh, God… What kind of 'adventure' now?" Alex takes the pink folder and turns it around doubtfully. "What's in there? Malu, I'm not going to tell you the details, but I've already had plenty of ‘surprises' these past few days… What is this?"
Malu grins and leans forward slightly. "Now, now, Alex... Where's your sense of adventure? You're always writing about these wild scenarios, but when it comes to real life, you get all nervous and cautious."
Lila snickers and nudges Alex playfully. "Yeah, you write about all these crazy fantasies, but the second something real comes up, you act like it's a threat to your world order." She looks meaningfully at Malu. "Ignore him. He'll get over it."
Alex frowns at the pink folder in his hands. "Yeah, I'll probably get over this… But still, I want to know what it is. At least roughly." He glances at Malu. "And what do you mean, ‘this is for me, since I'm such a connoisseur of female beauty'? Damn it, what is this?" He points at the folder.
Malu leans back in her chair with an amused smile. "Well, Alex, I guess you'll have to open it and find out." She gestures toward the folder. "But let me give you a little hint—it involves you, some very pretty girls, and a very special trip to Los Angeles." Her smirk widens as she watches his reaction.
Alex frowns harder, shifting from one foot to the other and adjusting the collar of his white shirt. He looks at Lila. "And what do you think? What could it be? Since Dana's pretty secretary doesn't want to say it directly."
He holds the folder up toward the window, staring at it as if the morning light might give it an X-ray scan. "Nothing shows… Well, if it's an invitation, then there's obviously some kind of paper inside… Fuck, I'm Captain Obvious, aren't I?"
Lila giggles and wraps her arm around Alex's waist, resting her head against his shoulder. "Oh, stop being so dramatic. It's probably just a modeling thing or a photoshoot. Malu does this all the time—puts together these little glamorous events for people to enjoy." She peers up at him, her face bright with playful curiosity. "Or maybe it's something more… personal. Like a private session or something?"
Malu leans forward on her desk, folding her hands together. "Alex, relax. It's not some horrible thing. It's an opportunity." She glances between Alex and Lila, her smile holding a touch of mischief.
At that moment, Elisabetta Vespucci steps out of Dana's office. She looks in an excellent mood, dressed in a white shirt, a black unbuttoned blazer, and black trousers. An expensive black handbag rests on her shoulder. Her hair falls loose, light makeup accents her face, and the white shirt stretches over her small but clearly beautiful breasts.
As Elisabetta exits, Alex and Lila turn to watch her approach. The Italian-American beauty's confident stride and impeccable attire command attention. She nods politely at the pair, a warm smile playing on her glossy lips.
"Ciao, you two," she says in a sultry voice, her brown eyes taking in Alex's nervous fidgeting with the pink folder. "Alex and Lila… I haven’t seen you in a long time. Far too long."
"Yes, Elisabetta… about a year or a year and a half…" Alex replies thoughtfully, glancing again at the pink folder. "Dana called Lila and me here for a face-to-face talk, as you've probably figured out…" He looks at Malu. "Okay, I'll check out this invitation later… Or… basically what's in the folder. But I don't promise anything." Then he turns to Lila. "Come on, let's go to Dana's office. Before my 'fans' swoop in."
Alex and Lila walk down the hall toward Dana's office, Alex still fiddling with the pink folder. He knocks gently on the door, and a sultry voice from within calls out, "Come in, Alex."
As they enter, Dana sits behind her massive desk, looking as stunning as ever in a black dress that hugs her curves. Her large dark brown eyes flick between Alex and Lila, a knowing smile playing on her full lips. "Alex, Lila. Please, have a seat."
She gestures to the plush chairs in front of her desk, her long legs crossing as she leans back. "I called you both here today because I have something very special planned."
Alex and Lila sit down in the plush chairs.
"Something more special than another adventurous party from Malu?" Alex shakes the pink folder in his hand. "Or the meeting with Elisabetta just now in the hallway, which I haven't seen… two years, somewhere?" He glances at Lila beside him. "Lila, as for Malu… I'm more than sure that it's just some invitation to her stand-up at one of the Los Angeles comedy clubs…" Then he looks back at Dana. "Alright, why did our mistress call us today?" He says it with slight sarcasm, but friendly. "Seems like you were pleased with the latest chapters of ‘Tropical Breeze.' Lila posed for me for hours in a coconut bikini, bringing inspiration… I mean, the bikini was made of real coconuts. So that's all thanks to her." He points at Lila.
Dana's smile grows wider as she leans forward, placing her elbows on the desk. "Alex, you flatterer. Yes, I absolutely loved the latest chapters. But that's not why I called you here today."
She glances at Lila before continuing. "I've been working on a new initiative, something that will shake up the entire Dreamside community." Dana pauses dramatically. "Mayor Valentina Navari has agreed to partner with me on this project, and I think you both need to be involved."
Lila leans forward, intrigued. "What kind of initiative?"
Alex shifts nervously in his plush chair. "Yes, what is this initiative?" he says cautiously. "Let me guess: this is the initiative you were just talking to Elisabetta about before we came? Your assistant isn't seen often, and if we caught her here in person… it means it's serious, right?" He looks clearly worried. "Listen, you… You know my story better than most…" Alex says to Dana, hinting at his panic attacks and the terrible state he was in when they first met four years ago. "All these 'social events'… they're not for me. So… All I can do is advise you to involve Kate. She just happens to have…" He looks at Lila strangely. "…A stage of creative reimaginings."
"Come on, Alex. Kate is just… expanding horizons." Lila says meaningfully, her gaze moving between Alex and Dana.
"Alright, Dana, spill it." Alex says, adjusting the collar of his white shirt and ignoring Lila's jab. "Just don't tell me it's some kind of literary contest or something like that…"
Dana smirks, leaning back in her chair. "It's nothing like that, actually." She glances at Lila, who nods eagerly. "Our initiative is about showcasing Dreamside's wealthiest and most influential citizens through unique and captivating storytelling platforms."
Lila's eyes light up with curiosity. "So like, a reality TV show about Dreamside's elite?"
Dana shakes her head. "Not quite. Think more along the lines of intimate, personal stories shared publicly—blogs, vlogs, podcasts, even fiction! It'll be a way for everyone to get to know their favorite celebrities on a deeper level."
Alex's brow furrows. "And Mayor Navari is on board with this?"
Dana nods. "She is. In fact, she even suggested involving the local high school and college in the project, turning it into a community-wide initiative."
Lila leans forward, intrigued. "That's brilliant! Imagine the exposure for all the talented people in town."
"Reality show? Lila, come on… we're a gated community." Alex snorts. He sighs and asks Dana, "It's all very cool, really. Blogs with personal stories and all that… But what does that have to do with me? Lila can participate… Anyone can, except me. So why are you involving me in this? What will be required of me?"
Dana smiles and says, "Yes, looks like you got up on the wrong side of the bed today and are very distracted… You know we can't risk your mental health. And we also can't reveal your identity to the general public—that you're the one writing all those erotic masterpieces under female pseudonyms. And so… you will need to… um… disappear."
Alex giggles immediately, showing no surprise.
"Like they're going to kill me or something? That'll be an amazing performance!"
Dana rolls her eyes. "You're being dramatic. I just mean you'll need to stay in the background. We need Kate to represent your interests. She can write blog posts and vlogs and be the public face for your mansion. But you'll lay low."
Lila snickers. "Poor Alex."
Alex frowns, tilts his head, and crosses his arms. "Um… But this has been the status quo for a long time. Kate throws parties at our house regularly. More for her friends and acquaintances than for herself. I don't show up at them. I sit them out in my office on the third floor of the mansion. Alright, damn it, Dana—you know all this perfectly well. You attend our parties yourself, albeit quite rarely."
He shifts in his chair and glances between Lila and Dana. "Um… Dana? Something more is required of me, right? You're not the kind of woman who calls for a private talk over trivialities and nonsense."
Dana sighs and repeats clearly, "I already said—you need to disappear."
Alex rubs one temple with his fingers and speaks in a calm tone. "Explain what that means."
"That means ‘Alex just not showing up at parties’ isn't enough. You know yourself what would happen if the best erotic writer in California…" Dana says, adjusting the deep neckline of her black luxurious dress.
"…Yes, I said ‘the best erotic writer in California’—just don't get cocky!" She giggles and leans back in her chair. "That's why I told you straight—you will disappear. For a while." Her voice sounds slightly playful, but no mockery hides in it.
Alex rolls his eyes. "Okay… just tell me—what is required of me? Do I need to move out for a while, until Kate becomes one of the headliners of your event? Does it even have a name? Do you think she'll agree to this? What will she be doing—posting daily blogs about herself on all social media? I need details."
Dana leans forward. "Then listen. The project is called Erodreamarts. All the major mansions and estates of Dreamside take part in it. It's not a reality show. It's specially set themes and limited content to promote our town, attract new young creatives here… and new investors, of course. I didn't want Château des Rêves involved because of your situation. The last thing we need is a bunch of girls from all over California storming our town once they find out who's really writing the hottest erotic novels of our time. That's why your disappearance is a necessary measure. We can't risk it, not even a little."
Alex throws his hands behind his head. "And what exactly do you suggest? Where are we going to stash me?"
Dana smiles mysteriously. "That's exactly what I came here to discuss with you. We have a perfect place for you to stay during the project. A little beach house not far from Cambria, on the coast. It's a great location, very private, no neighbors around. You'll have everything you need to continue your writing. And you'll be completely hidden from the prying eyes of the outside world."
Alex's eyes widen for a moment, then he grows calm again. He coughs slightly, a bit nervously. "Cambria? That's a coastal village in Northern California and far from Dreamside and LA, if I remember my geography right… And how long is this Erodreamarts going to last? Kate and I actually have a trip to Vegas planned for March… And not just the two of us—a whole bunch of our friends and friends-slash-staff."
For a few moments, all three—Alex, Dana, and Lila—remain silent. Then Dana sighs.
She speaks firmly. "Vegas can wait. Valentina wants Kate in the project, and we can't expose you. While Kate and the other celebrities of our cozy little gated Dreamside take part in Erodreamarts, you'll have another personal assignment. It's called: sit quietly, write, and don't stick your head out."
Dana sighs again. "Look, I know it sounds harsh, but this is an important project. I don't want to quarrel with Valentina—and to be honest, she's right: it will benefit Dreamside."
Then Dana chuckles. "At least you'll get a break from… mmm… Becky, right? Kate's assistant."
Alex rolls his eyes. "Well, that's the only upside, maybe…"
Dana grins and leans back in her chair. "And besides, think of it this way, Alex. You'll have a gorgeous place all to yourself. No distractions. Just the ocean, the sound of waves, and your keyboard."
Lila giggles, watching Alex's expression shift slightly. He's not thrilled, that much is clear, but he's also not outright rejecting the idea.
"Yeah, it does sound kinda nice," Alex admits reluctantly, scratching at his smooth chin. "I could finish my next novel in peace."
"Exactly," Dana says, pleased. "And don't worry about Kate. She's got her own project to focus on now. She won't miss you too much."
Alex raises his brows and looks at Lila. "Oh, Kate has plenty of projects lined up right now. Ones that imply my very active non-participation."
At this glance, Lila can't hold back a laugh. Then she exhales and adjusts her long dark hair along with her outfit—dark blue trousers and a dark blue deep-cut blazer with no top underneath.
Alex looks at Dana and continues:
"So it kicks off in March, right? And how long is it supposed to last? I assume the participants are the most charismatic Dreamside residents: Kate, Cheryl Bloomfield with her girlfriend Tara, you, Dara Liva, a bunch of other mansions and estates… and some pretty faces—Sadie Valentine, for example. Correct?"
Dana nods, pleased with Alex's understanding of the situation.
"That's right. The project is scheduled to last two months. But if it goes well, it might get extended." She pauses, watching Alex closely. "And yes, we have a great lineup. Kate, Cheryl and Tara, of course. Sadie Valentine will also be participating. She is one of the few who already knows about it. I suggested it to her myself. She's been writing some really provocative poetry lately. She might bring some extra... edge to the project."
Alex glances at Lila, who can barely hold back a slight laugh.
"And what are you smiling at, Lila? You're clearly enjoying this, aren't you?"
Then he turns back to Dana, who sits there in her sexy black dress with the deep cut, staring at him.
"Dana, how many households in our town are taking part in this? And how is it supposed to work in practice? Just advertising these households with their members and putting parts of their private lives online? Okay, let's say Kate and Cheryl are known outside of Dreamside and California… But what about the others?"
Dana leans forward, resting her elbows on the table. The movement makes her cleavage more pronounced. She studies Alex with a calculating gaze, her fingers intertwining as she considers her response.
"Dreamside is a place where people can be themselves without fear of judgment," she says smoothly. "This project is an extension of that philosophy. The participants—both couples and individuals—will be documented in various ways. Some through photography, some through video, some through diary entries. Everything will be curated by my team and Valentina's representatives to create an immersive experience for viewers."
She angles her face slightly, a smirk forming as she adds, "And don't think it's just about spectacle. There's an artistic component to this."
Alex snorts, then sighs. His gaze shifts between Dana's white desk, the deep cleavage of her black dress—she has small but very beautiful breasts—her brown eyes, the white walls of her office, and Lila, who tries to stifle a laugh. Lila sits next to him on the same kind of plush chair, dressed in dark blue trousers and a dark blue deep-cut blazer with no top underneath—or at least, nothing visible.
"The participants—both couples and individuals… Except for the pair 'me and Kate,' right? Valentina knows about our situation, doesn't she? Or is she into Kate or something, since she insists on having her in this PR project of our town?" He chuckles. "Oh, what such fucking nonsense… But what if Kate doesn't agree? She's busier than I am. I only have my books…"
Alex crosses his legs.
"Or are we going to present me to the world after all? Like, 'Hey, remember Sasha Jeans, the one who wrote My Horny Gardener? Well, the actual author is Alex Gonshorowski—yeah, the boyfriend of that artist and model who also starred in Wildenfire.' How about that, Dana? Or not gonna fly?"
Dana smirks, resting her chin on her interlaced fingers. The office feels charged with her presence—her long black hair falls over one shoulder, the deep V-neck of her dress frames her collarbones. She leans back slightly, stretching her legs under the desk. Her heels catch a sliver of light.
"Oh, Alex, don't be so dramatic," she says, her tone lilting with amusement. "You know I wouldn't put you in a position you weren't comfortable with. And no, Valentina isn't interested in Kate in that way. She just appreciates talent and wants to showcase it. And of course, the fact that you two are... involved makes for an interesting dynamic."
Alex folds his arms.
"Yes, Kate and I are a couple. And you know that—my relationship with her and my collaboration with you started around the same time, four years ago. So I'm asking you—why hide me? Let's just publicly admit that all those books under pseudonyms were written by me. I mean—reveal my identity. It might be awkward at first for all of us, but at least we won't end up in situations like this: having to hide me from the world for some PR project where everyone wants to see Kate."
He shifts again in his chair.
"You said you didn't want Château des Rêves to participate because of this whole situation… Did you explain everything correctly to Mayor Navari?"
Dana's smile widens slightly, her gaze flickering with amusement. She extends her hand to fiddle with the edge of her desk. The motion causes her cleavage to shift subtly. Alex doesn't look down this time.
"Alex, sweetie, you're being cute and naive," she says, voice rich with playfulness. "Château des Rêves is Kate's domain, and that's fine. But you—you're something else entirely. You're a writer with a bunch of established brands under different pen names. Revealing your true identity could be... complicated."
She leans forward, resting her elbows on the desk. Her face is now closer to Alex. "You don't understand, do you?" she murmurs. "You think it's just about the writing. But it's not. It's about image, control, and most importantly—fantasy. Your audience doesn't want to see the real you. They want to believe in the mystery. In the idea that these novels come from some shadowy figures, some unknowable geniuses with deep, dark secrets. And that works for you, doesn't it? The success? The money?"
Alex sighs.
"Yes, that works for me—success and money, and me remaining unknown to the world… Especially considering my panic disorder… Which is almost gone, thanks to Kate and Madi, but… Alright, okay. Let's say hiding me from the whole world during this project isn't a bad idea. But are you sure Kate will agree?"
He asks, though deep down he knows Kate will probably like the idea. After all, she agreed to Aria's plan regarding Brian…
Meanwhile, Alex continues.
"And… are we going to convince all 500 people or so… I mean the entire staff of my and Kate's mansion— to pretend I don't exist at all? Sure, it might work with Becky and Kae, but what about the others…"
Dana lets out a soft chuckle and leans back in her chair. She taps her manicured nails against the surface of her desk. The sound echoes lightly in the spacious office.
"Oh, Alex," she sighs, shaking her head with a knowing smirk. "You really don't get it, do you?"
She regards him with a teasing glint in her eye. Her fingers trail along the edge of her desk before she folds her hands neatly in front of her. "The staff doesn't need to pretend you don't exist—they need to pretend you're not important." Her smile widens as she watches his expression flicker with realization. "Not in the grand scheme of things."
Alex giggles.
"Ah, got it. And besides, the project is about the owners of mansions and estates, about successful artists and other creative people… Not their staff." He stretches his shoulders slightly, sitting in the plush chair.
"Still, I don't like the situation… Feels like it's going to be some kind of omnipresent 24/7 party and I'll have to run away from it all the way to…" Alex trails off, thinking.
"To Cambria," Dana reminds him with a smile.
"Exactly!" Alex exclaims. "Lila, we'll be living there with you… just like a scene from Tropical Breeze." He looks at Lila with a comically playful expression, hinting at a scene from the recent book and clearly expecting she will join him.
Dana's smile deepens. Her fingers interlace on the desk as she studies his reaction. "Cambria," she echoes, rolling the word over her tongue like fine wine. "That little slice of heaven by the sea. I think you'll find it... inspirational."
Lila shifts in her seat and crosses one leg over the other with deliberate grace. "Alex, if you keep making that face, people are gonna think you're actually scared of going there." She tilts her head, brown eyes glinting with amusement. "It's just a house. A nice house. With a view."
Dana leans forward, elbows on the desk, and fixes Alex with an intense stare. "I understand your concerns, Alex. But let's be real—this project is about showcasing the lifestyle and experiences of the mansion owners. Not their support staff." Her voice softens. She reaches across the desk and gives his hand a reassuring pat. "Your presence could compromise the integrity of the project."
Lila scoffs and rolls her eyes dramatically. "Oh, come on, Alex. You're not going to be kicked out. Just... downplayed a bit." She leans back and crosses her arms. "Besides, it's not like you're the star of the show."
Alex laughs. "Yeah! It just bugs me that they're kicking me out of my own house for a couple of months. Eh… alright." He leans back in his chair. "And yeah, Kate will probably agree… She likes taking part in different…" He glances at Lila, as if afraid she will mention the situation with Kate and Brian. "…projects."
He shifts his gaze to Dana. "Anything else? Just don't say ‘that's it'—I once went to a business meeting with some guy, and it took me longer to get to him than we actually spent talking…"
He mentally recalls his conversation with Brian about the Kate situation yesterday, Sunday, February 5, 2024, at 3 PM in Beverly Hills.
Dana sighs. "Alex," she says, her face softening with an indulgent smile. "You're not being kicked out of your home. You're being asked to make some room for a project that benefits both you and Kate, and every resident of Dreamside." She leans back, fingers steepled under her chin, and speaks with the smooth patience of someone used to handling temperamental artists. "This isn't just about attracting new talent and investments—this is about creating an image. A lifestyle brand. Dreamside, our gated art community, is more than just a place. It's an experience."
She pauses, letting the words settle. "And right now, this experience doesn’t include a brilliant erotic writer living under pseudonyms in one of the mansions, whose identity our publishing house, you, and I are forced to hide for a number of reasons…" Her smile turns knowing. "I understand your reservations, Alex. Really, I do. But sometimes... growth means stepping back."
Lila barks a laugh and elbows Alex lightly in the ribs. "Oh my god, this is so typical. You have the most comfortable life ever and you're still whining like you're getting sent to war. You just need to go work on your next bestseller while the girls play dress-up for a few weeks." She gives him a teasing look.
Alex lets out a loud sigh and rolls his eyes. "Aaaah… Fine! Around what date does this… your Erodreamarts start? What day in March?" He looks at Dana. "So I know when to pack my stuff and move to Cambria."
Dana pulls out her phone and taps the screen. "The project officially begins on March 1st," she says, glancing up. "We'll need you to be out of Château des Rêves by the 28th of February."
She sets the phone down and leans forward with the same patient demeanor. "And to be clear, we're not kicking you out, Alex. You'll have full access to the mansion while the project is underway. We just need to make sure your living quarters are separate from the main areas being used for filming and events. Almost full access."
Lila, still chuckling at Alex's discomfort, nudges him again.
"Yeah, exactly, 'almost.'" Alex laughs. "Oh… Dana, I mean, I am grateful that you're almost not pressuring me about this whole question-slash-demand… almost..." Heavy sarcasm laces his words. "But this mansion—ever since you gave it to me—it's entirely my living space. And also a living space for three or five… whatever, a few hundred people, my and Kate's staff-slash-friends." He folds his arms. "Look, we've known each other for four years. And you've never spoken to me this softly. What's really going on?" he asks gently.
Dana's demeanor shifts. She raises an eyebrow. "You're right, Alex. I've never had to handle you this delicately before." She leans back and speaks more frankly. "Truth is, I'm under pressure from the Board of Directors. They're worried about the optics of having a successful erotic writer living under a pseudonym. It's raised questions about the integrity of our publishing house."
She pauses. "By opening up Château des Rêves for this project, we're creating a distraction from those concerns while showcasing Dreamside as a vibrant artistic community. And yes, it means I have to ask you to be flexible."
Alex claps his hands lightly. "Well, now we've finally reached… CLARITY." He sighs and leans back. "I'm like a gold mine for the publishing house, but I have to be hidden so there's no situation of, ‘they were deceiving us—they don't have a bunch of genius writers, just one writing under pseudonyms!' Something like that…" He chuckles. "I'm not belittling the achievements of my colleagues at the publishing house, but… you get it."
He looks at Dana, then shifts his gaze to Lila. "What, not going to elbow me this time? And anyway—do you have your own thoughts about this, my sly foxy butt? Or are you just going to keep agreeing with Dana?"
Lila grins and gives him another playful nudge. "Oh, I've got thoughts, alright. But I'm also smart enough to know when I'm outnumbered. You and Dana are both looking at me like you're expecting some big reveal, and honestly? I think it's kinda hilarious."
She leans forward, resting her chin on her hand. "So here's what I'm thinking: Alex, you’re a genius. The whole publishing house depends on you, and now you’re being told to step aside in your own mansion while Kate, Dana, and Valentina turn it into a full-on media marathon? That’s gotta be one hell of a twist."
Her gaze flicks between them. "But you know what?" Lila smirks, eyes locked on Alex. "You love it. You love the chaos, the attention, the whole damn spectacle. You might be bitching about it now, but deep down, you're eating this up. Being a secretive erotic writer with a mansion full of beautiful people? It's a fucking masterpiece, and you know it."
She shifts in her seat and crosses one leg over the other. "You've been in this situation for four years now. And let's not forget Kate. The way she plays the perfect hostess, flirts with everyone, keeps you on a tight leash while she enjoys the attention."
Alex rolls his eyes and lets out a long groan as he adjusts the collar of his white shirt. He shoots a displeased glance between Dana, who sits at her desk in a black sexy dress, and Lila, who sits next to him in dark blue trousers and a deep-cut dark blue blazer with nothing visible underneath.
"So… Lila, Dana… let's avoid comments about my personal life, okay? If Kate likes the idea, I'm on board. If not, then you, Dana, along with the Board of Directors and Mayor Navari, can deal with her yourselves. And who knows who'll win." He pauses and says slowly, "Erodreamarts… Couldn't you have picked a more moderate name? It sounds less like a lifestyle-blogging marathon advertising our town and more like some public media orgy the size of our town. Some already-deranged Texas types already think we're a herd of horny idiots fucking 24/7, and you're just reinforcing that image with the name!"
Alex laughs. Dana chuckles and reclines in her leather chair. "Oh, Alex, you're too much. You really think we'd let some random name ruin our image?" She runs a finger along the edge of her desk, her dark red nails catching the light. "Erodreamarts is perfect. It's got that alliteration, that sexy edge. It's exactly what we want for the brand."
She leans forward, her cleavage spilling slightly over the front of her dress. "Besides, who cares what some Texas hicks think? They're probably jacking off to the idea of our little paradise anyway." Her smirk turns wicked. "And Alex, honey, you should be grateful."
Alex raises his hands. "Yeah, yeah, of course. I'm not arguing, okay. I'll leave the house so Kate can freely invite the right people over and film all those TikTok videos for this Erodreamarts marathon." He rubs his temple. "Besides, Becky will probably be happy too. Her crazy assistant-slash-designer-slash-model-slash my headache. By the way…" Alex squints at Dana. "And our Italian chaos Aria Vale-Romano…" He pronounces Aria's full name with an exaggerated Italian accent. "Her Cocoavilla will participate too, right? Although, considering how often Aria shows up at my place, I honestly don't know where our mansion ends and hers begins. To me, it's already one whole."
Dana grins and crosses her arms under her chest. "Of course Cocoavilla is involved. Aria will provide us with some of the models and influencers who live in her mansion. We need to position Erodreamarts as the ultimate lifestyle brand—exclusive, sexual, and outrageously desirable. And what better way than having the hottest girls in town rep our Dreamside for the rest of the world on the Internet?"
She smirks. "Besides, Aria's got this aura about her. People eat out of her hand. She knows how to work a crowd." Dana leans forward and rests her chin on her palm. "And I don't think you mind Kate's bestie hanging around, do you, Alex?"
Alex rolls his eyes. "Yeah, no, come on… I don't have anything against Aria. We're friends. Especially when she flirts with me jokingly in front of Kate…" He sighs. "Alright, I guess that topic's done. Do we have anything else to discuss, or is that it? Honestly…" He rubs his forehead. "The end of last week and this Monday were some pretty overloaded days in terms of events."
Dana chuckles, her face lighting up with amusement. "Oh, don't act so dramatic, Alex. You love the chaos, admit it." She leans back in her chair and crosses her legs elegantly. "But yes, we have one more thing to discuss. Though not with you, but with Kate. The upcoming Valentine’s Day party at Château des Rêves. We need to actively promote it across all our social media, especially for Erodreamarts. As for everything else… I think that’s it. I’ve discussed everything I intended with you. Sorry I had to summon you and Lila in person for this, but this isn’t the kind of topic we'd feel comfortable discussing over a video call, as you’ve probably realized."
"Good, good," Dana says approvingly. "I want this party to be the biggest event Dreamside has ever seen. We need to show the world that our little community isn't just some hedonistic fantasy—we're a lifestyle. A brand. And Château des Rêves is the perfect stage for it."
She pauses for a moment, then continues in a more personal tone. "I've been following the chatter about Kate and Alex. That's good for us—natural drama, real people. Their relationship... it's perfect. It adds an element of authenticity. Spice. Either way, people love it. The press loves it."
Alex rolls his eyes. "Oh, where could I possibly hide from this face-to-face conversation?"
A few minutes later. February 5, 2024, 11:00 AM. Dana's office, Sogni Nudi.
After Alex and Lila leave Dana's office, Dana receives a phone call. She picks up. It's Mayor Valentina Navari.
"Dana, how's our Château des Rêves matter progressing? Have you spoken with Alex yet? Or Kate? Or both of them?" Valentina asks in a businesslike but impatient tone.
"With Alex, just now," Dana replies calmly. "He'll fill Kate in. Probably on the phone right now. I'll contact her later, don't worry—she'll agree. Château des Rêves is on board."
The conversation continues.
"Erodreamarts is important, Dana," Valentina says. "I know you didn't want to involve this mansion, but you'll have to hide your secret genius writer… unless you want to publicly admit that all those exquisite erotic books are his work."
Dana exhales softly and swivels in her office chair to look out the window. The view of Dreamside's skyline—modern buildings mixed with lush green spaces—does nothing to ease the pressure.
"That's the issue, Valentina," she says. "Alex doesn't want to be exposed. You know that. Me too. And Kate. Although he doesn't seem to have panic attacks anymore... It could come back." She rubs her temple, already feeling the headache build. "I'm doing everything I can to manage this without compromising him."
Valentina lets out a heavy sigh. Even through the phone, her exhaustion is clear. "Listen, I know almost nothing about Alex, except what you told me about his health issues, and that some doctor helped him who now lives with him in his mansion… Hide Alex, involve Kate. That's it. Simple. Alex's personal life isn't mine or yours, roughly speaking." Then she adds slyly, "Watch out—if you seem soft, you'll start losing weight in your own publishing house."
Dana smirks slightly at the jab. "Don't worry, Valentina. I can handle my own affairs. And Alex's... I'll make sure Château des Rêves is ready for Erodreamarts. Kate will agree. I'll contact her later today."
After the call ends, Dana leans back in her chair and stares at the ceiling. She knows Alex's secret writing career is a delicate matter, and exposing it could wreck his mental health.
Therefore, he has to hide for several months in the coastal Californian village of Cambria while the Erodreamarts media marathon runs.