Rating PG 13
Part 1
She stood, just outside the building, wondering once more, what she was doing there. She had got the call from the agency, sending her for an interview. She had attended several, often not even getting through the door. Being turned away, told that she would not be suitable for the job, even before they saw her résumé. She was capable, one of the best. Yet no-one in this town wanted to give her a chance. So she stood, staring at the doors. Her chocolate brown hair, pulled back on a functional ponytail. Dark glasses sat on her noses, shielding her eyes from the late afternoon sun, reflecting, and flaring of the coated glass. Dressed in black slacks, a loose fitting shirt, and flat pumps, she walked through the doors. She walked directly to the security desk. “I have an interview, my name is Miss Thorne.” As the guard checked the appointments book, she glanced about the lobby. Amazed, at what some of the female members of staff seemed to be wearing, or not wearing. Yet, she felt something was wrong. Turning back to the security station, he just nodded and directed her to a bank of elevators. She gave her thanks, and walked away, still viewing the lobby. Taking in everything about her. Reaching the lifts, she was shocked there were no buttons. Silently the doors opened, then with one final glace back the way she came, she stepped into the unknown. Again there were no buttons, the doors closed and the lift rose silently. She looked about her, noting the hidden camera, no make that two cameras, the second was infra-red. Top of the range.
She shifted her bag, under her arm, giving her both hands free. As the elevator came to a halt, and the doors open, she took a calming breath. She stepped into another lobby, this one a homage to modern history, all dark wood, and marble. A lone sectary sat at a large oak desk. She was dressed to kill, her short skirt, visible under the desk. Her blouse opened to the third button, a silk scarf, wrapped gently about her neck. Again she took a moment to take in her surroundings. Noting more cameras, and motion sensors. It was good to see someone taking security seriously, most places only had the basics, and even then some of it was for show. “Miss Thorne, There will be a short wait I’m afraid. He’s been held up in a meeting.” Her attention snapped back to the woman behind the desk. She removed her sun glasses, making her eyes clear to view. They were sharp, and ever watchful. The woman shifted uneasily, under her scrutiny.
“That’s fine. Any idea on how long?” She sounded calm, but she was on edge. Everything was screaming something was wrong. She was restless, moving constantly.
“I’m sorry I don’t know. Why don’t you take a seat. I’m sure it won’t be long.” She gave her a contrite smile, trying to set her at ease. “Would you like a drink. Tea or coffee?”
She shook her head, “No thank you. I’m fine.” she turned and walked over to the leather couch, and sat down. Legs crossed at her ankles, hands clasped in her lap. Eyes twitching towards the door. It was where her unease seemed to come from. Even with all the state of the art surveillance, she felt wrong. Her mouth seem a little dry so she stood, and spoke to the woman once more. “Is it possible to get a glass of water?”
“Sure, just take a seat I’ll get it for you.” She rose gracefully from her seat rounding her desk. Before she had taken two steps away, noises of a scuffle could be heard coming from behind the office doors. Shouting and yells, filling the air, that had gone suddenly still. She was at the doors in a split second trying to open them.
“Get these doors open.” the woman had frozen. “Hey you. Doors. Now!” Finally the woman snaps out of her stupor. Running back to her desk, reaching it just as an ominous sound rings out. A single shot. Still pushing at the door, until they open, she enters the inner room. Keeping to one side of the door she peers round. Her analytical eye ,sees two men. One lying on the floor, a blood stain spreading out over his shirt, the other standing over him, holding the gun. Instinct takes over, she cautiously edges into the room. “Hey man, what are you doing? You don’t really want to kill him do you?” The man turns on her, but the gun stays pointed at the man on the floor.
“Your one of his flunkies, one of them girls. You know what he is, a monster. He preys on girls like you. He doesn’t deserve to live.” Her eyes flick to the man on the floor, he’s pale, deathly pale. Then she spots something strange, his eyes seem to flash to a crystalline white. Then it was gone, and as she looked again, she saw only brown, pained eyes, staring up at her. The attackers gaze follows hers, giving her the opportunity she needs. As he becomes distracted once more, she moves. In a blinding move, the gun has gone from his hand, and skitters across the floor. Then the attacker is on his knees, arm wrapped behind his back, restrained. Moments later, the buildings security arrives, taking care of the attacker. Her attention turns to the injured man. He is talking to one of the guards.
“Excuse me Miss Thorne, but due to the circumstances, it would be better if we can reschedule this interview. You will receive a call in the next week. Just you leave your number with Miss Nixon there.” He indicated the secretary, and motioned her out of the doors.
“Don’t you need me to speak with the police?” she was following standard protocol. Yet, something here was far less than standard. It was damn near peculiar.
“No Mam, the whole thing was caught on camera. We can deal with it.” Then he closed the doors, and left her with Miss Nixon.
“Has someone called the paramedics? He needs urgent treatment.” Concern was evident, but so was puzzlement.
“Trust me, he’ll be fine.” Miss Nixon didn’t seem worried. Her comment did nothing to alleviate he concerns. Then the intercom buzzes.
“Miss Nixon, is that young lady still here?”
“Yes Sir. Would you like me to send her in?” There was a hint of relief in her voice.
“In deed, send her in.”
“Would you like to go back in please. He’ll see you now.” She led the way back to the doors and opened them for her. With a smile she showed her in, then closed the doors. The man that had been lying on the floor, was now sat behind a huge mahogany desk, staring at her intently. His scrutiny, matching her own. He had changed his shirt, and seem unhurt. The security guard was still in the room, standing in one of the corners behind him.
“Well, I hope you didn’t mind my little test Miss Thorne. When it comes to matters of safety and security, I can be a little paranoid. Your reactions were to be commended. Tell me what do you think of my security?”
“Your security? It’s a joke. I walked into your building, and even though I told them who I was, my identity wasn’t checked. Nor was I searched. I came up here to your private offices, and was unchallenged. If I had wanted, I could have brought up a weapon, and your ‘little test‘,” she added speech marks with her fingers, “could have been very real.” she locked eyes with him in a battle of wills.
He looked away first, only to turn to the man behind him. “Is this true? She came up here unchecked.” his features were stern, hard. The guard just nodded, not giving a verbal answer. “Leave now.” With the order spoken the guard left. “Now let’s get down to the nitty gritty shall we. How is it you are so able?” His gaze wandered over her. Taking in her slim, but defined form.
“I was brought up in the army. I joined in some of the training, when I was allowed. Taking myself over the assault course. Timing myself. I took martial arts classes, gained black belts in several styles. I was never going to be, a girly girl. I was definitely a tomboy. I trained in multiple fire arms, including crossbows, and compound bows. Then I went to learn defensive driving, and started work as security personnel. Often working with women, who felt uneasy with male guards. I gained a reputation, after a few events. I came to LA to start in a fresh location, with less resentment.” She paused watching him, measuring the man before her. “Is there anything else you want to know?” The ball returned to his court.
“You can give me your résumé. Then tell me your name?” She handed him the file from her bag, and he quickly scanned it. He looked back up. Smiling.
“You just read it. Rose, Rose Thorne.” She held her hand out to him. “A pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr?” He took her hand, shaking it with a firm grip.
“Kostan. Josef Kostan.” Was his reply.
Part 2
As Josef closed his office door, he let out a growl. He needed to feed, and it had to be fresh from the vein. Picking up the phone on his desk, he made the call to one of his freshies. Sitting down, his thoughts turned again to Rose Thorne. She fascinated him, and that could be a dangerous thing. Her actions in his office, had shown him, she was unafraid to step into the line of fire, or to put herself in danger for the safety of others. He buzzed the front desk, “Nicole, would you put in a call to Miss Thorne, and invite her back for a second interview.”
“Yes, Mr Kostan. Will there be anything more?”
“No nothing at the moment, Nicole.” He gave a small grin, she was one of his best. Leaning on his desk he steepled his fingers in thought, as he caught the approaching scent. A light knock on the door, announced her arrival. She sauntered in, her face showing the emotions Josef could smell coming from her.
“Josef, we heard you had been shot. Everyone wants to know if you are alright?” She had crossed the room to his side, seating herself on the arm of his chair.
“Ah sweet Trixi. As you can see, I am well, no permanent damage. I just need a little fresh A-neg, to help, me feel completely well.” He then reverently took her wrist, placing light kisses, from the crook of her elbow, to were he felt her pulse beat. His eyes paled, and his fangs descended, he scented her readiness, her eagerness to give him what he need the most. Gently he sank his fangs in, lapping at the blood that welled from the twin puncture marks. Trixi, gave a soft moan of pleasure, from the sensations his mouth on her wrist gave her. Josef, then started to draw slightly deeper from her, and she sagged into his shoulder. Her face was serene, a picture of bliss. Reluctantly he withdrew his fangs, laving the wounds until they stopped weeping, listening to the steady rhythm of her heart beating. She pulled back from him to look him in the face, please to see colour on his skin. “Thank you my dear. You may tell the other girls that I am alright.” He stood with her, and with a guiding hand on her back, walked her to the door. Watching her slowly walk away down the corridor. He then turned his attention to head of security, standing by the desk. “Come in Santiago.” His tone was cold. He turned on his heels, and re-entered his office, closely followed by Santiago. “Close the doors.” He commanded, and Santiago complied. He stood in front of Josef’s desk, head and eyes downcast, a subservient stance. “What the hell happened today? Were you all asleep?” his eyes flashed crystalline in anger. “I don’t take too kindly to people trying to kill me, Santiago. Yet today it happened, and in front of someone, not aware of the tribe. I don’t tolerate failure. You better have a damn good reason for your failure today.” Josef’s intense gaze fell solely on the man stood before him.
“I have no excuse, Mr Kostan Sir. It should never have happened.” he was contrite, his body posture one of submission.
“Your right, it shouldn’t have.” Then without warning he plunged a stake into Santiago’s chest. “Looks like I need a new head of security.” he snarked. Opening his phone, he made a call to the cleaners. He walked to the doors, opening one of them, he spoke to Nicole. “Nicole, what time did you arrange for Miss Thorne to come back?”
“4pm on Monday. Did you want me to change it?” Her face was full of respect for him.
“No, that’s fine. I’m expecting the ladies in black, just let them straight in when they arrive.” He care deeply for all of his girls, and knew the news of his attack, had to have come from Nicole.
“Yes, Mr Kostan. Do you need anything else?”
“No Nicole, once they arrive you can go.” He gave her his best smile.
“Yes Sir,” She paused, wondering if she should say what was on her mind. “I’m glad you weren’t hurt Josef.” she was sincere.
“So am I, so am I” He returned to his office, taking a final look at the prone figure on the floor. Then went into his private quarters and poured himself a large scotch.
_____________________________________________________________________
Rose had been surprised by the call. They wanted her back for a second interview. Honestly she had thought she had been turned down again. She ran through the initial interview again in her mind. She had sworn something was wrong. The lax security, and the reaction of the secretary. It was off, wrong. Even when she had been told , it had been a test, she hadn’t really believed it. With all her experience, she had learnt to read if someone was lying to her.
So her she was again, head tilted up, studying the glass and steel edifice before her. Going through the motions. Dressed almost identically to how she had been before, only her shirt this time was electric blue. Her was down in a loose style, and it flowed and bounced lightly as she walked to the desk once more. “I’m here to see Mr Kostan. Miss Thorne.” The security guard took the proper precautions, asking to see her ID, and then checking her person. They even went as far as checking her bag. The change was so radical, that she thought, perhaps the last time had been a test. To see if she could spot the obvious flaws in the system. Again she entered the lift, and rose to the office on the top floor. It was a different girl on the desk this time, and the office door was open.
“Go right on in Miss Thorne. Mr Kostan won’t be a moment.” The girl gave her a genuine smile, and Rose couldn’t help but smile back.
“Thanks. Could you get me a glass of water please?” Her mouth was uncharacteristically dry.
“Sure, I’ll bring it in to you. Make yourself comfortable.” Then she was gone, and heading down the hallway. Rose walked into the office. This time she took the time to study her surroundings. She noticed several paintings on the walls, they appeared to a Renoir, and a pair of Monet’s. She stepped closer, thinking that they seemed to be originals.
“They are originals, if you were wondering.” His voice from behind her, startled her. She stepped back sharply, turning as she did, and smacked straight into his chest. He was grinning at her, it was disarming. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.” His hazel eyes, were filled with warmth, and mirth.
“I didn’t hear you come in Mr Kostan. Ordinarily I wouldn’t jump like that.” She gave him a nervous look. She was off balance at his proximity, and his masculine scent was playing havoc with her. He was staring at her, watching her breathe deeply. Then he stepped silently away from her.
Still grinning, like the cat that got the cream, “It’s the carpet, and I walk very softly. Again, let me apologise for giving you a scare.” He gestured for her to sit on the couch, rather than the more formal chairs in front of his desk. As she sat the secretary came in with her water. She took it with a trembling hand, and took a sip. Calming herself. Eventually she looked up at him, he was studying her.
“Was there something more you wanted to know Mr Kostan? I thought all the relevant information was in my file.” He had sat opposite her, crossing his legs, reclining, head tilted at a slight angle. He purse his lips before he spoke.
“I want to personally offer you the position of Head of my Personal security. My last one was lackadaisical, and your observations just pointed it out further. I hope you noticed some changes on your return here?” Rose was flabbergasted. She had only expected to get, a general security job. Not run the whole thing. Josef saw her shock, and confusion. Leaning forward he asked. “Are you alright? You’ve gone a little pale.”
Quickly she gathered her thoughts, what was it about this man, that put her so far off her game. “Err, Yes. I’m great. You just surprised me again.” She huffed slightly. “I didn’t even know you were looking to fill such a position. I was put forward for standard security.” She looked bemused.
“Rose, Miss Thorne. Your position would be head of MY personal security.” he emphasised the ‘my’. “Answering to me directly. Responsibilities, include. Reviewing, my security measures, keeping them up to date. Also being responsible for my safety, and that of my direct staff.
You impressed me Miss Thorne, and it takes a lot to do that. So do you want the position, and do you have any further questions?” He sat further forward, his gaze was almost predatory.
Although she had several questions, she replied. “Just one question. When would you like me to start?” She had gained her composure back, and took another sip of water, before placing the glass on the table before her.
Josef, was expecting a different answer, and just nodded his approval. “Immediately. I have a social function to go to this evening. You can accompany me, as my guest, and my security.” A vision of horror, crossed Rose’s face, “What you can’t start tonight?”
“No, Yes. I can start, I just…” She bit her lip hard.
“What then? It’s a formal occasion, evening wear. It’s a dedication of a new wing at the gallery.” It was his turn to look confused and amused, as he watched her blush.
“I don’t have any evening dresses, or any dresses to that fact. There not conducive to working on a security detail.” Josef laughed in pure and simple amusement.
“You don’t own any dresses? What do you wear when you go out for an evening?” His brow raised up in an incredulous look.
“I don’t go out.” Her tone sharp, and defensive. Why was she justifying herself to him. “I always wear functional clothing for work.” She had stiffened up.
“Calm down, Rose. It’s simple, we’ll just go out, and get you one. He was smirking at her again. Eyeing her up and down.
“What now? I can’t afford any new clothes right now. That’s why I need this job.” She was still on the defensive, now hoping she hadn’t blown her chance, here and now.
He shook his head, “There’s no problem. I’ll buy it for you.” Rose just stared at him open mouthed.
Part 3
She was still in shocked silence, as they reached the mall. She hardly notice the drive in the Ferrari. Turning to face him, she caught his profile, and was taken in by how handsome he appeared, but there was something about him. She wasn’t one for mysteries. She had to break the train of thought about his looks. “You drive like the devil. Come to think about it, maybe you are.”
“If you had a car like this, wouldn’t you drive it, like it was meant to be?” He twisted in his seat to observe her. “But I’m definitely not the devil. He doesn’t want me, and heaven won’t take me.” For just a moment, a deep sadness appeared in his soulful eyes. He gave a mirthless laugh, then the look was gone. And the light returned to his hazel orbs. “Come on, let’s find you a dress, and accessories.” He climbed out of the car, and strode round to her door. Opening it, he then offered her his hand. Rose took it, stepping out of the car. He place a hand in the small of her back, as he guided her towards the boutiques. “Now where shall we start, Dior, Versace. Donna Karen.” For the next hour they walked from shop to shop. Being fawned on hand and foot. Rose noted that Josef, got almost royal treatment. He disappeared for around ten minutes excusing himself, stating he had a business call to make. When he came back, he seemed more refreshed.
“Did everything go well with your business?” She enquired, noting his suit was crumpled, and a small amount of make-up had transferred onto his shirt.
He noted her scrutiny, but chose to ignore it. “Yes I completed the transaction satisfactorily. Now have you chosen any dresses?” An embarrassed look came over her features. “You don’t have to worry about the cost. I treat all my staff well. A gown such as you need, is nothing to me.” The look remained.
“It’s not the cost. I am not a model, I don’t have the perfect figure. These dresses, are for models. Not for the likes of me.” It was clear she had low opinion of her image. Her clothes were, as she put it functional.
“Everyone needs to have at least one outfit, that makes them feel….” He sought out the word he needed. “fabulous. You will look perfect, in what ever you choose.” She lost herself in his words, wanting to believe them. “Now go try on the dresses, and show me. Then we can make a choice. We still need to get to the salon, so they can pamper you, and make you even more special than you already are.”
She was about to argue, but he shooed her away, the assistant leading her to the changing booth. Slipping out of her blouse, and trousers she took the first dress. A black chiffon number, with a plunging v- neckline.
She stepped out of the changing room, only to find Josef gone. A scowl crossed her face. How could she do her job, if he disappeared, without telling her where he was going. She took the chance to look at herself in the mirrors. “Crap, this one makes me look like I’m going to a funeral.” The dress wasn’t all that flattering on her. She returned to the booth, not shutting the curtain all the way. Not realising Josef, had returned behind her. She removed the dress, carefully replacing it on the hanger.
Josef had heard the comment about the dress, and watched her from a short distance. He nodded his head in agreement. That dress was wrong for her, not flattering at all. Then he saw her undressing. Not one to miss a voyeuristic opportunity, he silently returned to where he had been sat. He was struck by the paleness of her skin, and her more rounded curves. Her body shape was muscular, tight and defined, but not demure. Then he saw them. She had a large tattoo at the base of her back, and several others on her upper body. All of this she had covered up with loose fitting garments. He was becoming more intrigued with her. She was the opposite of his freshies, who had stick thin bodies, tans, and a perfect image in their minds. He decided to make her jump again. “So what was wrong with the first dress?” She gave a twitch as he started speaking, and her heart rate went up a little. Rose turned, and saw him. A rose red blush swept her body, and her pulse spiked.
“I looked like I was going to a funeral, not a party. Let me put the next on, and I’ll come out and show you.” Then she swept the curtain closed, and took several calming breaths. Shocked at how he made her feel. Did he have this effect on everyone? She thought. She struggled with the next dress, The straps getting tangled. Then with one final adjustment she stepped out in front of him. His breath caught in his throat.
“Now that one has possibilities. Turn around.” She slowly spun for him. “That’s a maybe. What do you think of it?” His gaze raked her body, and a warm sensation ran through her.
“I feel exposed, but it is beautiful.” her hands ran up her arms, covering her exposed flesh. She gave a shiver, and goose bumps ran over her skin. “I’ll try the blue one next.” Then she vanished behind the curtain. The assistant return, and took the dress from her, putting it to one side. Politely she asked if she would like anything to drink. Rose asked her for a soda, and took the blue dress down it had a full sleeve of a fine silk, down one arm the other was off the shoulder. Beads and embroidery adorned the main body. She held the skirt up and turned about, feeling how the dress moved with her. She opened the curtain, and tilted her head. “How about this one? I love the blue. “I meant to ask, what’s the format for this evening? You said it was a dedication, but we’re here buying me a gown more suited to a ball.” she twirled, the dress flowing about her.
“Hmm, the colour suits you. But the shape doesn’t.” He was being critical. “That dress is more for those skinny girls you talked about.” The assistant returned and handed her a glass of soda. Rose took a mouthful, feeling the sugar hit her system. Then she emptied the glass, placing it on the table. Josef, watched as she swallowed, noting for the first time the line of her neck. “Well it is a ball. There’s a gala ball after the dedication. What do you need a timetable for?” he snarked at her, the right hand corner of his mouth twitching into a smile.
“If I’m looking after your ass, Mr Kostan, then yes. A timetable or schedule would be nice.” She was just as sarcastic, hands on hips grinning at him. Their banter was friendly, she was already at ease with him.
“Well next time I’ll get you one.” then he added “I would like you to call me Josef. Mr Kostan makes me sound old, and stuffy.” Rose laughed, it was a light and free sound.
“Old and stuffy? Oh my I don’t think your either of those Mr..err Josef.” She corrected herself quickly. “Sorry, but I would always call my employer, by their formal name.” There was a silence between them, each watching the other. “Um well I have one more dress to try. Do I keep this one for consideration, or is it to go on the unwanted pile?” Her back turned to him, as she stepped once again into the cubicle to change.
“The unwanted pile. There is a perfect dress out there for you, and we shall find it.” He heard her laugh again, it made him smile. “What’s so funny?”
“I think you would have to look for more than one lifetime to find that for me. I’m not your average person.” She took the last dress, stepping into it, draping the diaphanous shawl about her pale shoulders. In a last minute decision she scrunched her hair up, in a loose bun, a few tendrils trailing down her neck. She called the assistant to her and asked her for some heeled shoes. She disappeared, and returned minutes later with the matching shoes, and lace gloves. Slipping on the shoes, and gloves. She graced Josef’s view. “Well?” Just one word. From Josef’s demeanour, she knew she had found the dress.
He was speechless, she took his breath away. The dress shimmered, the bodice had a sweetheart neckline. She was stunning, and with little effort. “I think that one will do.” He was tongue tied. He shook himself, to get his mind on other things. “Perfect.” He turned to the sales assistant. “We’ll take it, and the accessories as well.” He smiled at her, “OK now we have to get you to the salon, and pampered. Then head back to get ready.” Twenty minutes later they had bags in hand and were walking to a very exclusive salon. Once more the staff fawned over Josef. The girls were practically throwing themselves at him. It was clear he was trying to keep a straight face. He whisper some thing to one of them, and then they all backed off.
“You seem to have quite an effect, on the opposite sex. What is it with these girls?” Admonishing him slightly.
“They want to work for me. I have a large share in a film studio. Most of them are actresses, looking for a break into the industry. Now, sit down and be pampered.” He turned to the assembled girls. “Now ladies she’s all yours. I want her back better than perfect. I’ll be back in two hours.” Then he was gone, all eyes following his figure striding away. Rose sat in one of the chairs, and the hair stylist crossed to her. Releasing her hair, from the bun she had tied it in. It fell halfway down to her waist. It shimmered in the spotlight.
“You hair is beautiful. It would be a shame to cut it. Now what would you like? Miss?” Her hands sat on the back of the chair. Eyes met via the mirror. Randomly running through the strands.
“I don’t really want to cut it. Can you just style it?” She smiled, “Mr Kostan is taking me to a dedication, and ball at a gallery. I’ve only just started to work for him. I’m starting to wonder what I’ve got into.”
“Oh he’s a great man to work for, a perfect gentleman. He always see’s his girls right. So describe your dress for me. What’s the colour, and neckline.” Her eyes shone as she spoke about Josef.
“Did you ever work for him? You seem to have an affection for him.” She was interested, but she knew she shouldn’t ask.
“Oh yes, for several years. He set up this salon for me. Now the dress, we only have limited time to do every thing.” Rose didn’t dig any deeper, and gave her the description. Then the girl started on her hair while others worked on her nails, face and make-up. When the two hours were up, Josef was waiting for her.
“Chloe my dear, you work wonders. Glad to see your doing so well. Obviously I made a good investment here.” She held out her arm to him.
“Once more, for old times Josef?” Stepping closer to him, she was almost purring. Rose just watched the interaction, feigning disinterest. Wondering what it was she used to do for him.
“Ahh, not today.” He grinned at Rose, almost laughing, “We’re on a schedule, to get ready, and get to the gallery.” Rose hid her own smile, but noticed the glare she received from Chloe. “Come my sweet Rose, time to leave, and get ready.” He held out his arm for her to take. Rose considered it a very old fashion gesture, but took it anyway. He led the way back to the car. The Ferrari was gone and a huge white limo, was in it’s place. Josef held the door for her. Closing it after himself. He sat on the opposing side to her, watching and studying her.
“So are you taking me back to my place, to let me get ready?” She watched the building speed by, outside of the window.
“No. we’re heading to my house. I hope you don’t mind. You can use one of the guest rooms.” He was inspecting her again, watching her body language.
“What? Your place, but I thought…” He stopped her.
“Yes my place. It will be easier for both of us. I’ll drop you home after the Gala.” Her face was incredulous. He gave her a boyish grin. “What you think, I’m going seduce you?” He was openly laughing, and Rose embarrassed as she was, was laughing too.
“Oh God, my make up is going to be ruined.” Tears were streaming down her cheeks, and her make-up was becoming streaked. Josef handed her a handkerchief, and she wiped her eyes. “Thanks, I guess seeing all those girls falling over themselves to get to you. I jumped to some conclusions. Especially that Chloe. It seemed to me, there was something there, in the past, between the two of you. You can correct me if I’m wrong. I notice things, it’s part of what I do. As for going to your place, well I can check the security there. I trust you not to seduce me, I don’t fraternise with my employers. Bad karma, and all that.” She laughed again, her eyes sparkling with the tears she had just shed. Josef avoided the question, as the car slid to a halt. The door opened , and Josef stepped out first, then offered to help her out. Still smiling, Rose spoke up with a poor imitation of a southern drawl, “Why thank you kind Sir.” and curtseyed.
Josef couldn‘t help himself, he ended up, bent double with laughing. He took a moment to compose himself, then led the to his home. Rose looked on awe struck, she had never seen such splendour. “Welcome to my home Miss Thorne. I’ll show you to a room you can use, then we can meet in the lounge before we leave.” He quickly showed her the lounge, then escorted her up the stairs to a guest room. “You can change and touch up your make-up in here. We need to leave in about an hour. I’ll see you down stairs.” Rose was in amazement. The room was magnificent. If this was a guest room, she wondered what the master bedroom would be like. The urge to roam the house, was immense, but Josef had said they needed to leave in an hour. So instead of wandering, she started to get changed. firstly she touched up her face, blending in the streaks her crying with laughter had caused, then touched up her eyes. She then turned to the dress, she lifted it from the bag, laying it on the bed. She stripped out of her clothes, then carefully stepped into the dress, minding the layers of petticoats. She finished getting ready, taking the chance to look at herself in the full length mirror, she was surprised at what she saw. She couldn’t believe that it was her she was looking at. She smoothed the skirts, then left the room to find Josef in the lounge. She descended the stairs as gracefully as she could. Walking down the plush hallway, with a steady gait. Josef was facing her, as she entered. He stood to greet her, taking her hand and placing a light kiss upon the back of it. “Your house is impressive Josef. It’s a shame we don’t have time tonight, to take a tour. Maybe you could show me at some point. After all, I’m now responsible for your safety.”
“Thank you for your compliment. I will ensure you get to look over the house. May I say how beautiful you look. It’s quite a change from earlier. As for this evening, try to relax and enjoy yourself. Would you care for a drink?” She sat on the sofa, as he walked to a small bar. She studied how he was dressed. His suit had been replaces with a dark charcoal grey tux, he wore a white shirt, with a grey bow tie. His back was turned to her, and she glanced down at his backside.
An appreciative smile on her face, she whispered to herself, “Now that’s an ass worth saving.” She missed Josef’s snort, as he clinked the glasses. “Oh a drink, erm yes please.” She chewed her bottom lip “Red wine, just a small glass. I don’t normally drink a lot. I would like to say how dapper you also look.” Josef was pouring her dink, and walked back over to her. His eyes shimmered, and Rose thought they had lightened, but put it down, to a trick of the light. “Can I ask you something, and get an honest reply.” She had become serious again.
“I would like to think so. I have to trust your judgement, so the honesty has to start somewhere. What’s your question.” He was nervous about what she was going to ask. As she said she noticed things, like the reactions of the girls in the salon. Had she seen something else.
“Why me? Why chose me over a man?” Was she having doubts. Why the questions now.
“I like to be different. You proved you could cope in a tense situation. I read your résumé. I considered you more than capable. Your not having second thoughts are you? Because it’s a little late to pull out now. I’d never get another date, on such short notice.” He watched her closely.
“Oh no, no cold feet. Just curious. And as for not getting a date,” She emphasised the date. “ I can’t see there being a problem. Anyone of those girls in the salon, would jump at the chance. Especially Chloe. She told me she work for you, and you set her up in business.” She didn’t ask the next question, and he was relieved she hadn’t.
“Your probably right, they would. Even slit each others throats, to get the chance.” he made the appropriate gesture with is hand. “Just think how jealous they are of you. You’re the one gracing me with your presence, not them.” Rose had given a giggle at his gesture, but noted the serious look in his eyes. He stood, from where he had sat on the arm of the sofa next to her. “Now are you ready to go?” She nodded and stood. They walked to the front door, a graceful couple to look at. Once more the Ferrari, was waiting, this time with the top up. “We don’t want to ruin your hair, now do we?” He helped her in, making sure her skirt wasn’t caught in the door. Then got in to the drivers seat, buckling up, he sped away from the house, towards the gallery. The drive was made in silence, each one stealing glances, and looks at the other. Forty minutes later they arrived at there destination. Josef stopped the car, but stopped Rose opening the door. “I have one more thing for you. To complement your outfit. Turn your back to me, and I’ll put it on for you.” She twisted in her seat, as she felt his cool hands, caress her neck. Then she felt him place something about it, and fasten it. She faced forward, finding the mirror in the visor. She stared at the reflection. Sitting at her throat, was the most exquisite piece of jewellery she had ever seem. The gems glittered. Diamonds, and rubies, in a platinum setting.
“Josef, I can’t accept this. It’s too much.” She was about to undo the clasp, when his hands stopped hers. He placed a kiss on her neck, and she instantly pulled away. “You said you weren’t going to seduce me.”
“I’m not. I didn’t buy the necklace. I hired it.” He went quiet, then carried on speaking. “I’m sorry about the kiss. I meant nothing by it.” He had sensed her response. His closeness had spiked her emotions, the kiss just pushed it further. He wondered how far he could go, but decided to leave it for now. There would other times and places. “Shall we go in. Please relax, and enjoy the art and the evening. Tomorrow, you start work for real.” He gave her that boyish grin again. It was full of mischief. The valet at his signal opened her door, and the pair, arm in arm walked into the gallery, and the throng within.
I loved this ending!!!! 
