Inside the envelope, I noticed a contact card and reached out for my phone and dialled the number.
The dial filled my ears, followed by a deep velvety voice. “This must be Elizabeth.”
My chest tightened. How did I know who I was? “Yes.”
Before I could proceed further, he continued. “You’ve received the petition, I assume. I did a background search—it seems you don’t have the means to pay.”
“So why serve me, knowing that?” My voice tightened.
A chuckle came from the other end of the call. “I don’t want your money.” His voice dropped, a dark undertone creeping in. “I want something else.”
A question gnawed at my mind. What does this man want from me now?”
Elizabeth
The evening next day came too soon and I stood before the full-length mirror, observing my outfit. The black gown was just a little above my knees. The quality of the dress reflected my broken bank account.
A hiss fled from my lips as I took off the gown. Mr. Adiaga had sent the location and it was one of the biggest restaurants in Manhattan. It was known for its luxury, I doubt they would let me pass through looking like this.
A knock on the door punched the silence and my chest tightened as I gazed at the door.
My heart raced as thought of it being the loan shark.
The knock came in again and my heartbeat doubled, panic twisting my stomach.
Knowing if they broke down the door, my fate might be much worse, I trudged towards the door, my joint as rigid as a worn-out machine.
As I opened the door my eyes fell on a middle-aged woman. Faint wrinkle lines had dominated her face and hands. “Mr. Adiaga sent me to prepare you for the date.”
As soon as the woman walked in, three ladies trailed behind, carrying heavy boxes. They placed them on the sofa and pulled out different dresses, makeup, and jewelry.
“What the hell is going on?” My eyes swept across the sitting room, taking in the luxurious items on my sofa.
“Well, There’s no way you are sitting before Mr. Adiaga,” she said, eyeing me. “Wearing this filth.” She turned to the ladies. “Girl fix her.”
And like little minions, they approached me. One that placed the dress on my body. “This doesn’t match your eye color.”
Another came close, her excessive fragrance stinging my nose. “This lipstick is perfect.”