Grinning triumphantly, Tony stood and looked down at Claire, “Again, so much credit. I should be honored.”
Claire stood to meet his stance, her words slowed, “Tell me what you’ve done.”
“While I may be able to assume some responsibility, it is quite the opposite of what you suspect. Miss Allyson is currently enjoying the honor of an invitation to one of the most prestigious law firms in Des Moines.” Checking his phone, Tony read a text message. His shoulders relaxed and he continued, “As informative as this conversation is, we can continue it later. It’s almost eight, as you know this gala started at seven. You may remember -- I do not like to be late.”
For the first time since she entered the penthouse, Tony evaluated the woman before him. “My, Claire, you do look lovely. I admit I doubted your financial ability to dress as would warrant my companion for the evening. There’s a complete ensemble in the master suite for you, but I like your choice.” Scanning her from head to toe, he stepped toward her and lifted the pearl of her grandmother’s necklace. His eyes shone in triumph as he said, “Yes, after you touch up your make-up, I believe we’ll be ready to attend our reunion gala.” Gently dropping the cream colored pearl, he softly brushed the back of his hand against her cheek. His voice dripped with bogus compassion, “Don’t look so strained, my dear, this is a happy occasion. You wanted our dinner public. Your wish is my command. Besides, you came here to represent SiJo Gaming. I promise this will bring that small company more publicity and positive public relations than would have originally happened.” Taking her small hands in his, he squeezed and said, “This is a win, win.”
Claire squared her shoulders. Her eyes found the fight she’d momentarily loss. Although the emerald green flashed and her voice seemed stronger, she submissively asked, “Where can I get ready?”
As he directed her upstairs, she noticed his demeanor calming. He had her over the proverbial barrel. If she chose to argue or disobey, SiJo would suffer. He’d given her no alternative. That, plus the content of a text message he’d just received, seemed to mellow him. Claire wondered why he could divide his attention between telephones, text messages, and those around him, and she couldn’t. Feeling the prickling sensation of the hairs on the back of her neck, she chose not to voice that question.
The ostentatiously large bath of the master bedroom suite contained rows of buttons capable of illuminating the room from every angle. The glass, chrome, mirrors, and tile sparkled as she depressed each switch. Claire beheld her reflection. In many ways she resembled the woman back at Amber’s condominium. Yet, the aching behind her temples, paler complexion, and strain behind her eyes reminded her of a woman she used to be, Mrs. Anthony Rawlings.
Some powder, blush, and lipstick helped the complexion. A few acetaminophens from her purse would eventually aid her head. Claire believed only the conclusion of this nightmare would relieve the stress. Nevertheless, when she emerged from the bath and found Tony waiting, in his custom Armani jacket and tie, she secured her mask and appeared the perfect companion. Old habits die hard.
*****
Minutes earlier, Sophia walked briskly through the crowded lobby of the Saint Regis Hotel. She glanced again at her watch, 7:56. Across the sea of people she saw Mr. George with a tall man in a nice suit. She watched as Mr. George acknowledged her to the other man. Both of their postures relaxed. She wondered if they’d been concerned she wouldn’t come.
“I’m sorry I’m late. The walk from the grand ballroom was farther than I realized.”
Mr. George smiled nervously, “Sophia, let me introduce Eric Hensley. Mr. Hensley, this is our very talented artist, Mrs. Sophia Burke.”
Eric extended his hand, “Mrs. Burke, so nice to finally meet you. I apologize for disrupting your evening. I certainly hope this meeting hasn’t caused you too much inconvenience.”
Sophia smiled, “Well, as you see, I’m dressed for the gala down the hall. However, after your generous allocation of my paintings, I felt unable to deny this request.”
“Mrs. Burke, I apologize. I’m not the one who purchased your art, although I have seen it and think very highly of it. I’m here representing someone else. He would like to meet with the two of you privately.”
“Privately, Mr. Hensley?” Sophia asked, “I was told this wouldn’t take long. My husband is waiting for me; dinner is soon.”
“I understand, Mrs. Burke. I will let my employer know that you aren’t able...”
The shocked expression on Mr. George’s face said more than the words from Mr. Hensley. Sophia interrupted, “No, I apologize. Of course, I’d like to meet with your employer. I do hope we will meet here.”
Eric continued, “Yes, upstairs in one of the Presidential suites.”
Sophia nodded at both gentlemen, “All right, let’s go.”
With that, the three of them walked toward a bay of elevators. Once inside Eric slid a plastic card in the reader and pushed the button for the twenty-seventh floor. The presidential suites were located on the floor below the penthouse. As the compartment ascended, Eric removed his telephone. “I must text my employer. He’ll be very happy to know you’re on your way to the suite.”
*****
Anthony and Claire did not pass GO... they did not pass through the waiting room, as she’d done earlier. When the golden elevator opened, a well-dressed gentleman met and greeted them, “Mr. Rawlings, we are so happy to have you with us tonight.”
Tony shook the man’s hand, “Yes, Mr. Wilkins, I apologize for our tardiness. My companion was not feeling well, but all is better now.” Tony inclined his head toward Claire, “Perhaps you remember my companion, Claire,” he paused momentarily, “Nichols.”
Claire extended her hand, “Mr. Wilkins, it is so nice to see you again.”
Though visibly shocked, Mr. Wilkins accepted Claire’s hand and smiled weakly, “Ms. Nichols, yes. It is a surprise to see the two of you,” he regrouped. “It is always a pleasure.” Turning back to Tony, “Now, Mr. Rawlings, and, Ms. Nichols, if you’ll follow me we will make your introductions.
Tony replied, “Although I’m here to speak, I am also representing Shedis-tics and Ms. Nichols is representing SiJo Gaming.”
Mr. Wilkins nodded affirmatively and promised proper introductions. Tony once again seized Claire’s hand and slowed their pace, allowing Mr. Wilkins to lead the way to the ballroom. He whispered, “Well, if that’s any indication, reactions alone should keep this night entertaining.”
She smiled and replied, “Entertaining is not the word I’d use.”
Her quickness delighted him. Though his soft voice divulged his amusement, his grip, and words revealed his warning, “Be careful, Ms. Nichols; don’t let your recently discovered independence get you into trouble.”
Utilizing her previous southern charm, she replied, “Why, Mr. Rawlings, I believe I am already in more trouble than I can handle.”
They both quieted as the doors opened and an MC announced, “Ladies and Gentleman, we are proud to introduce, Mr. Anthony Rawlings and his companion Ms. Claire Nichols.” A hush followed by applause echoed through the large ballroom. Except for a few waiters and waitresses, the room of people stilled and looked their direction. The MC continued, “We are honored to have Mr. Rawlings, of Rawlings Industries, with us this evening as one of tonight’s prestigious speakers and as a representative of Shedis-tics. Ms. Nichols is also present as a representative of SiJo Gaming.” There was more applause and Tony placed his hand in the small of Claire’s back. They stepped into the sea of people. Immediately, they were surrounded by people wanting to meet and speak to tonight’s honored guests.