Inferno Anthology (202 page)

Three days earlier she’d asked Anthony for hiking boots. Now she was tying them and preparing for her new adventure. Inhaling the sweet smells of nature, Claire contemplated her path as Catherine came rushing toward her. “Ms. Claire, I’m so glad I didn’t miss you.”

Claire’s tranquility evaporated into the afternoon haze. “No, it looks like you caught me, and I promise to be back before 5:00 PM.”

“Ms. Claire, I just received a call from Mr. Rawlings. He has an engagement tonight in Davenport. It’s a fund-raiser for the Quad City Symphony at the
Adler Theater
.”

“So, he won’t be back tonight?” she asked, thinking that perhaps she could stay out in the woods later than 5:00 PM.

“No, miss, he’ll be back.”

“What?”

“He’ll be here at 6:00 PM to pick you up. You are to accompany him to the symphony.”

Claire stared at Catherine in disbelief. She’d just been permitted outdoors, and now she was going to Davenport to the symphony. Saying
no, thank you,
didn’t seem to be an option. Her mind swirled. “Catherine, I’ve never been to a symphony before. Can you please help me?” Claire prayed that this wasn’t another test about appropriate dress.

“Of course, I will, miss. Now, let’s go up to your room, and we’ll get started.”

They did. Catherine went directly into the closet and came out with a long black evening gown. It was simple, yet amazingly beautiful. Claire showered again. Catherine helped with her make-up and hair. They straightened, pinned, and curled her long chestnut locks until they were piled on her head with cascading curls dangling down her neck. There were even exquisite sparkling earrings for Claire to wear. Securing them in her pierced ears, she thought how long it had been since she’d worn jewelry and how nice they looked with her hair up.

Another accessory that surprised Claire was the handbag. She hadn’t gone anywhere or needed a handbag in months, but tonight Catherine had one for her. Anthony would be home and ready at 6:00 PM. Apparently the symphony began at 8:00 PM, with cocktails at 7:00 PM. Catherine explained that it took one hour to drive to Davenport, and Eric would chauffeur them in the limousine.

Before she dressed, still wearing her robe with her hair done and make-up perfect, Claire sat on the edge of the large marble tub, fighting the queasiness boiling within. Looking to Catherine, she asked, “What does Mr. Rawlings expect of me this evening? How should I act? If he has rules for being out, he hasn’t told me; and if you know, I would truly appreciate being informed.”

Catherine’s eyes shone with care and concern. Claire truly believed she wanted to help her, and she’d do anything to make this evening a success for both Claire and Mr. Rawlings. Sitting next to Claire, she gently took Claire’s hand in hers and said, “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’s 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 to mar. That is why he requires his home to be a place of quietude. He must do so much for so many that he needs a place to repose and 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
.

Catherine continued, “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. 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:
a rare opportunity? a trust? an intimate side of himself?
She hadn’t asked for any of this. 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 was custom 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.

Catherine reminded her, “There will be people everywhere. Remember
appearances
are everything. Ms. Claire, you are striking!” Catherine’s eyes shone in approval.

Claire looked at herself again in the mirror and felt like she was viewing someone else. Tentatively smiling at that person in the mirror, Claire agreed she looked beautiful.

At 5:50 PM 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 was 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 demanded 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, but she knew she wanted it.

Once at the bottom of the stairs she proceeded to Anthony’s side. He didn’t speak at first, then not to Claire but to Catherine. “My dear Catherine, you have outdone yourself. You’re an artist.” He bowed to her at the waist.

“Mr. Rawlings, an artist is only as good as her canvas. You are accompanying a beautiful canvas.”

“Or…” he said. “…should we say, she is accompanying me.” Now to Claire, he commanded, “We must go, Eric is waiting.”

If Claire were concerned about conversation topics on the drive to Davenport, she needn’t have been. After assisting Claire into the back of the limousine, Anthony once again became engrossed in his iPhone and multitasked with his iPad. On days he worked from home, Claire was often expected to stay in his office in case her services were required. She overheard many business calls, web conferences, and webinars. Therefore, listening to him discuss some dealings on the phone on the way to the symphony seemed strangely comfortable.

Claire wanted to thank him, tell him how excited she was to leave the estate and see something—anything; however, his work preoccupied him throughout the ride. She was busy too: watching out the tinted window, seeing different views and different things. Even the sensation of being in a car exhilarated her. She’d never ridden in a limousine. The interior was exquisite, and she could smell the soft leather seats that formed a horseshoe.

They approached Davenport as the sky filled with a mixture of pink and purple. It reminded her of vibrant paints swirled together. Soon the sky began to darken and the lights of the city illuminated the horizon. It was the most splendid combination of sky and skyline she’d ever seen.

Minutes before their arrival, Anthony ceased his business and turned to Claire. “Has Catherine prepared your behavior for the evening as well as she has your appearance?”

Claire thought to herself: somewhere in that statement is a compliment. I’m going to take it. “She’s given me her advice, but I’d feel better if I heard yours.”

“Very well, when we arrive there will probably be photographers. Don’t act surprised or shocked by the attention. Just flash a beautiful smile and radiate confidence. Stay next to me at all times. There will be reporters who’ll try to learn your identity. I have a publicist who’ll know the time to release any necessary information. That is
not
you. I will do most of the talking; however, common sense will need to be with you. If spoken to, you will respond, but do
not
share information that is privileged. Do you understand?”

“I do.”

“I’ve been asked to attend this event because of a donation I made to the Quad City Symphony and the Support the Arts Foundation. Have you ever been to a symphony before?” Claire said that she had not. Anthony continued as the limousine snaked and crawled along narrow streets. Traffic was stop and go. Claire thought this meant they were getting closer. “The symphony is a delightful evening. I believe you’ll enjoy the music. This conductor is incredibly talented.”

“Thank you, Anthony, for allowing me to join you this evening.”

“I admit you’ve learned your lessons well. Now it’s time to see if you can continue to follow the rules outside the boundaries of my estate.”

“I’ll do my best.”

Anthony gently took Claire’s chin and turned it toward him. “You
will
succeed. Failure in a public setting is not an option.” Their eyes locked on each other.

“Yes, Anthony. I will continue to follow your rules.” The car slowed and stopped.

Anthony whispered, “Wait for Eric. He’ll open the door and assist you in getting out. I will be right behind you, and we’ll enter the theater together.”

Catherine said there would be people looking at them, and Anthony warned about photographers, but Claire hadn’t expected the
Emmy
red carpet treatment. There were cameras everywhere and people shouting questions. At WKPZ there was a meteorologist, Jennifer, about ten years Claire’s senior. She took Claire under her wing and taught her all about working for a news station. Jennifer was preparing Claire for the cameras, prior to the buyout. The stage advice Jennifer gave her about appearance and demeanor proved helpful. She told Claire, when those cameras turn on and your image transcends people’s living rooms, they don’t care if your dog just died, your boyfriend cheated, or you won the lottery. They care about the weather. So find a mask, keep it polished, and when that red light turns on, wear it proudly. It worked for Jennifer. She retained her position after the buyout.

Eric opened the door. Claire gently swung her legs outside the car and put on her mask. It was the mask of the beautiful face she’d seen smiling back at her in the bathroom mirror earlier that evening. Her movements flowed gracefully, and her smile never waned. She diligently followed everyone’s advice.

Anthony exited the car, nodded with a handsome smile to the crowd, and gently placed his hand in the small of Claire’s back. Her nervousness changed to exhilaration as they advanced through the crowd and into the theater. Waiting inside the doors was a man who enthusiastically greeted Mr. Rawlings and escorted them upstairs to a private room. Once there, the reporters were gone, but the people remaining were equally anxious to speak with Anthony Rawlings.

As they mingled, Anthony took two crystal flutes of champagne and handed one to Claire. His voice sounded different—chatty—as he greeted and was greeted by different people. He graciously introduced his companion Claire Nichols, to the individuals and couples they encountered. Claire smiled politely, shook hands, and made small talk. Claire watched the man she’d come to know. He seemed so different. Many people wanted to talk to him, and he knew all their names. After so much time alone, his social skills captivated her.

After the lights flashed, he gently touched her elbow and led her to their seats. They stepped through the black curtain where Claire could see the entire theater. Anthony had directed her to a private box above and to the right of the stage. They sat and she beheld the magnificent view: ornate walls, crowds of nicely dressed people, and beautiful velvet curtain. Too quickly, the auditorium darkened and the spotlight hit the stage.

A woman with a German accent began to speak. “Before we begin tonight’s performance, I would like to thank everyone for their attendance. I would like to ask you, the audience, to join us at the Quad City Symphony in thanking the one man who made this evening’s performance, as well as future performances, possible, Mr. Anthony Rawlings.”

Suddenly, the spotlight shone directly into their box. The crowd erupted in applause and a standing ovation. Claire watched as Anthony stood and acknowledged the gratitude with a dashing smile and a wave. He sat back down, and with the light still on them, leaned over and took Claire’s hand. She smiled at him. His eyes were so light. The spotlight turned off and the symphony began.

They hardly spoke during the entire performance other than to comment on a musical piece. When not occupied with applauding, Anthony’s hand continued to gently hold Claire’s. The entire concert ended too soon. The lights came up and they stood to go. Whispering in his ear Claire thanked him again. It was more than she could have imagined. He smiled, gently placed his hand in the small of her back, and led her through the crowd to the foyer. Once outside, Eric opened the door of the waiting car and Anthony assisted Claire as she entered the limousine.