Passion at the Opera by Diane Thorne Page B

all its beauty have survived well over the centuries.”
    He stopped at the end of the hall and glanced up at the ceiling. “The building has been restored many times, but a great deal of effort has been taken to preserve everything.”
    Gwen glanced up and studied the colourful ceilings. “It’s so beautiful.”
    “Yes, beautiful.”
    She lowered her head and found him gazing at her.
    “Where are you from, Ms Stratten?”
    “I’m from the Midwest in the United States.”
    “Do you always travel alone?”
    “Well, I am single. This is my first trip in a very long time.”
    “Are you enjoying it?”
    “I was until I found out I don’t have a ticket to the show.”
    He chuckled. “I’m sorry to hear that.”
    His soft voice generated a wave of heat in her body. And his blue eyes…she could stare at them all day long.
    “Is Vienna your home?” she asked.
    The corner of his lips curled. “Yes. I live here. I also own several businesses.”
    She lifted her brows. “Several?”
    “Three of the top five, in fact.”
    “Wow, that’s quite a feat.”
    He slipped his hands into the pockets of his pants. “I own a few smaller companies as well. The bigger ones have locations throughout Europe.”
    “Would I be familiar with any of the businesses?”
    “Probably not. My establishments are all European based and deal with technology, furniture, and architecture. I also own a wine company, men and women’s apparel shops, and select hotels.”
    Gwen pressed her lips together to keep her jaw from dropping. The man had to be very busy managing so many businesses. He also had to be very wealthy, which explained the nice suit he wore. His achievements and interest in the arts impressed her.
    “Your achievements are much grander than mine.”
    “What do you do for a living?”
    “I’m a manager in an office. I’m sure it’s nothing like managing multiple businesses.”
    A warm smile spread across his lips. “Probably not, but I’d like to learn more about you.”
    Her heart gained an extra beat. She’d love to spend time with him and find out more about him.
    Stephen came to a stop next to them. He looked at Nikolaus and spoke in German. Gwen watched the two talk. Their conversation seemed important. When Nikolaus glanced at Gwen, she said, “I don’t understand German. I only know English.”
    “One of Stephen’s shops is opening soon and he’s run into a few problems,” Nikolaus said.
    Gwen turned her gaze to Stephen. “I’m sorry to hear that. Do you own many companies too?” Stephen’s attire suggested he too was a successful businessman.
    “I own a few.”
    “He’s a very good businessman. Very smart,” Nikolaus said. “I’m trying to convince him to take over my establishments.”
    Stephen chuckled. “He never stops trying.”
    “I’m fifty-three and ready to start enjoying retirement. It’s time to let someone else handle all the affairs, and you know you are the best man for the job.”
    “I keep telling him he can’t retire until he finishes paying for his daughters’ educations, and he continues to insist I step into his shoes.”
    “A college education is expensive.” Gwen nodded. “I can understand the need to keep working to pay for such an expense.”
    “Do you have any children, Gwenevere?” Nikolaus asked.
    “I have two grown daughters. One is still in college. Please, call me Gwen.”
    “Grown young women? I’m shocked. You look young.” Nikolaus ran his gaze down her body.
    “I’m forty-four.”
    “I would never have guessed.” A hint of a smile played on Nikolaus’ lips. “You look incredible for your age.”
    “Thank you.” Warmth spread within her body.
    “Both of my daughters are in college too,” Nikolaus said. “I divorced when my girls were young. My ex-wife grew tired of my endless nights and days away from home, but understood the nature of my position.”
    “I’m sure it is a very demanding job to manage so many companies,” Gwen