arly hours until eventually I
fall into a fitful, exhausted sleep.
The day drags and drags and Jack is unusually attentive. I
suspect it’s Kate’s plum dress and the black high-heeled
boots I’ve stolen from her closet, but I don’t dwell on the
thought. I resolve to go clothes shopping with my first
paycheck. The dress is looser on me than it was, but I
pretend not to notice.
Finally, it’s five thirty, and I collect my jacket and
purse, trying to quell my nerves. I’m going to see him!
“Do you ha一ve a date tonight?” Jack asks as he strolls
past my desk on his way out.
“Yes. No. Not really.”
He cocks an eyebrow at me, his interest clearly
piqued. “Boyfriend?”
I flush. “No, a friend. An ex-boyfriend.”
“Maybe tomorrow you’d like to come for a drink after
work. You’ve had a stellar first week, Ana. We should
celebrate.” He smiles and some unknown emotion flits
across his face, making me uneasy.
Putting his hands in his pockets, he saunters through
the double doors. I frown at his retreating back. Drinks
with the boss, is that a good idea?
I shake my head. I ha一ve an evening of Christian Grey
to get through first. How am I going to do this? I hurry into
the restroom to make last-minute adjustments.
In the large mirror on the wall, I take a long, hard look
at my face. I am my usual pale self, dark circles round my
too-large eyes. I look gaunt, haunted.
Jeez, I wish I knew how to use makeup. I apply some
mascara and eyeliner and pinch my cheeks, hoping to
bring some color their way. Tidying my hair so that it hangs
artfully down my back, I take a deep breath. This will ha一ve
to do.
Nervously I walk through the foyer with a smile and a
wa一ve to Claire at reception. I think she and I could
become friends. Jack is talking to Elizabeth as I head for
the doors. Smiling broadly, he hurries over to open them
for me.
“After you, Ana,” he murmurs.
“Thank you.” I smile, embarrassed.
Outside on the curb, Taylor is waiting. He opens the
rear door of the car. I glance hesitantly at Jack w
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