make this evening a success for both Claire and Mr. Rawlings. Catherine sat next to Claire and gently took her hands in her own. “Ms. Claire, you are to look beautiful, and you do.” Her smile reassured Claire, who nodded as Catherine spoke. “Mr. Rawlings is a very influential businessman. He is a fervent believer in appearance. If things look right on the surface the underside is rarely questioned. However, things may be great in reality, but if one perceives them to be amiss, it is difficult to change that perception. Therefore, Ms. Claire, you are expected to be the perfect companion: beautiful, polite, contented, and appreciative.”
Claire thought to herself, Well, perfect . . . okay, no pressure.
Catherine continued, “A man of Mr. Rawlings’s standing is constantly observed by others. Some watch to imitate, others watch to mar. That is why he requires his home to be a place of quietude. He has to do so much for so many, that he needs a place for repose and to refuel. That is where you have been so good for him.” Claire looked into Catherine’s eyes, she was sincere. Claire believed Catherine had Mr. Rawlings’s best interests at heart. However, she was sure Catherine didn’t understand the ways he expected to be helped. “But above all, Mr. Rawlings requires confidentiality on the part of anyone who works for him or is near to him.” Claire pondered that thought. “Ms. Claire, you have had the rare opportunity to get to know Mr. Rawlings in a way most do not. The information you hold must not be shared with anyone. He has allowed you to see a more intimate side of himself. The Mr. Rawlings the world knows is much more guarded. He has placed a trust in you and you should know he does not fully trust many people. Do not ever discuss Mr. Rawlings or your relationship with anyone.” Catherine smiled and squeezed Claire’s hands. “I know you will be wonderful, Ms. Claire. Mr. Rawlings will be proud to have you on his arm.”
For a moment, Claire sat silently contemplating Catherine’s words: rare opportunity? A trust? Intimate side of himself? This wasn’t something she asked for. With all honesty she considered the possibility of bolting from the symphony. Did Catherine expect her to feel honored? She mostly felt . . . well, conflicted.
Catherine insisted that Claire eat a light dinner before dressing. The beaded silk gown with the halter bodice fit like it had been made for Claire. With the Ralph Lauren black high-heeled shoes the dress’ length was perfect. The beading made the material heavier than Claire had anticipated. Watching herself in the mirror, Claire turned ever so slightly and the skirt pitched that direction. It was the most stunning dress Claire had ever seen, much less worn. Next Catherine assisted Claire with a lightweight black silk wrap and matching handbag. Inside the handbag she placed lipstick and powder. There would be people everywhere, remember that appearances are everything.
“Ms. Claire, you are striking!” Catherine’s eyes shone in approval. Claire looked at herself again in the mirror. She felt like she was viewing someone else. Tentatively smiling at that person in the mirror, Claire agreed she looked beautiful.
At five fifty they left the suite for the foyer. Instead of the usual route, Catherine took Claire the longer way, forcing them to descend the grand stairs. When they reached the top of the stairs Catherine coughed ever so slightly. She looked up at Claire, taller than her in her heels, and gave her one more reassuring smile. Catherine gestured for Claire to descend the staircase first.
Waiting by the front door, iPhone in hand texting, stood Anthony. He emitted confidence and animal magnetism. His tuxedo, obviously tailored specifically for him, looked exquisite as it accented his broad shoulders. There wasn’t a piece of his dark hair out of place as it was gelled and combed to perfection. His face smooth like he’d recently shaven. Claire couldn’t help but think that he looked incredibly handsome. Following the sound of Catherine’s cough he glanced to the top of the stairs. Suddenly, the business that was demanding his attention appeared to be forgotten. He watched as Claire gracefully descended the flight of steps. As his eyes beheld her every move she wondered if she should smile. She wasn’t sure how he would react. His expression emanated favor. Claire wanted his approval. She told herself she didn’t need it. She was happy with the way she looked,