Chapter 22: Lisa Vanderpump at Pinky's
The Flamingo shimmered under the neon glow of the Vegas Strip, its iconic pink sign beckoning the trio like moths to a flame. After their blackjack adventure at the Wynn, Brenda had insisted on one final stop before calling it a night: Pinky's, the stylish cocktail bar designed by none other than Lisa Vanderpump herself.
“This place is supposed to be fabulous,” Brenda said as they stepped into the bar, a pink paradise of chandeliers, velvet seating, and floral accents. “Lisa Vanderpump is a legend. She practically invented glamour.”
Juan looked around, skeptical. “Feels like Barbie’s dream house got a liquor license.”
Price grunted, eyeing the menu. “As long as they’ve got whiskey, I’m good.”
The Encounter
The trio took a corner table, sipping on their drinks—Brenda’s pink martini, Juan’s frothy gin cocktail, and Price’s decidedly un-pink whiskey—when a ripple of excitement spread through the room.
“She’s here,” whispered a woman at the next table, clutching her bedazzled purse.
“Who’s here?” Price asked, leaning toward Brenda.
Brenda’s jaw dropped as she spotted the source of the commotion. Lisa Vanderpump herself, clad in a shimmering sequined gown, was gliding through the bar like royalty, flanked by adoring fans and a small entourage.
“It’s her!” Brenda whispered urgently, gripping Price’s arm. “Lisa Vanderpump! The queen of reality TV and cocktails!”
Before Price could reply, Lisa’s gaze swept across the room and landed on their table. To everyone’s shock, she made her way over.
A Conversation with the Queen
“Good evening, darlings,” Lisa said in her unmistakable British accent, her smile radiant. “How are you enjoying my little creation?”
Brenda practically melted, fumbling for words. “It’s… it’s amazing! You’re amazing!”
Juan, ever the charmer, leaned forward. “I have to admit, Lisa, this place is impressive. You’ve got style.”
Lisa laughed, clearly enjoying the attention. “Well, thank you, darling. And you,” she said, turning to Price, “you look like you’re not entirely sold on the pink theme.”
Price smirked. “I’m more of a ‘simple bar and cold beer’ kind of guy. But this whiskey’s not bad.”
Lisa raised an eyebrow, amused. “Not bad? I’ll take that as high praise coming from you.”
Drinks and Wisdom
Lisa sat with them for a few minutes, sharing stories about her inspirations for Pinky’s and her life in Vegas. Brenda hung on every word, while Juan peppered her with questions about her favorite cocktails.
“So, Lisa,” Juan asked, swirling his drink, “what’s the secret to making it big in Vegas?”
Lisa smiled knowingly. “Confidence, darling. Vegas is a place where you can reinvent yourself every night if you want to. But always remember who you are underneath all the glitter.”
Brenda nodded enthusiastically. “That’s so true. Vegas feels like a dream, but you can’t get lost in it.”
Price raised his glass. “Here’s to staying grounded. Even in Barbie’s dream house.”
Lisa laughed, clinking glasses with him.
A Farewell to Remember
As Lisa stood to leave, Brenda mustered the courage to ask for a selfie. Lisa graciously obliged, posing with the trio and leaving them with a memory they’d treasure forever.
“You three are quite the group,” Lisa said, smiling warmly. “Enjoy the rest of your Vegas adventure, darlings.”
“Thanks, Lisa,” Brenda said, starstruck. “You’re incredible.”
As Lisa disappeared into the crowd, Brenda turned to the others, her eyes wide. “Did that just happen?”
Juan grinned. “Not bad for a night in Barbie’s dream house, huh?”
Price shrugged, but even he couldn’t hide a small smile. “Alright, I’ll admit it—this was pretty cool.”
With their spirits high and their Vanderpump encounter to top off the night, the trio left Pinky’s, ready for whatever Vegas had in store next.
To be continued...