Something wasn’t right. We were so far outside standard protocol, but all she said was true. I’d gone to her for this and despite my nerves, I didn’t have another option. Besides, Karen’s secrets were as deep as the ocean and she was a vault. If she didn’t want to share, I couldn’t pry them out of her.
“Okay,” I mumbled, pushing the contract into a neat pile. “I’ll let you know in a few hours.”
I stood and headed toward my desk outside her office. When I reached her doorway, she called my name and I turned back, losing my breath.
Karen was curvier and older than my mom. She didn’t smile as much, but occasionally, in moments like then, their similarities were a punch to my chest.
“What, Karen?”
“If I felt this client was unsafe for you, I wouldn’t suggest it.”
I gave her a nod and closed her door behind me. Then, after a trip to the restroom, I gathered my purse and left to take care of all the evaluations.
Three hours later, after being poked and prodded, both physically and mentally, I was back in Karen’s office.
Less uncertain; more determined.
My job with Karen was temporary. My life was in upheaval. This decision gave me a year and financial freedom afterward to figure out what to do with my life.
She glanced at me once, pen poised over the contract to sign her name next to mine. “Are you sure?”
“I’m sure. What do I need to do now?”
She slid my file to the side and handed me a folded sheet of paper. “Be there tomorrow by ten o’clock in the morning. All your clothes will be provided for you. Bring nothing except a small bag of essentials.”
“Tomorrow?”
“Tomorrow. I suggest you finish up for the day and take off. I’m assuming you’ll want some time at home to get things settled.”
I hadn’t had a home in months. My apartment was barely furnished, not at all decorated. I had nothing to do before leaving, but was I ready?
This was insane.
Still, I gave my thanks to Karen, took the paper, and did what I was told.
I should get used to it, for the next year, my life would be determined by someone else.
I prayed the guy she was giving me to would be patient when it came to sex—and understanding when he realized he’d just bought a virgin.
