Hired for secrets

Is sex better with love?

Sofie couldn't hide her smile. She did it! She secured a night with the elusive Philip, the world's most expensive escort. And it wasn't that difficult. Preparation and patience took her halfway, so the only thing left to do was get into Philip's head and extract the information she needed. Find out why her spies mention Philip's name in the same context as Kerry's most ruthless crimes.

But all logic and reasons for her visit evaporated when Philip hooked her arm into his and led her up the granite staircase. The muscles in his forearm flex underneath the elegant, delicate fabric of the jacket, when he placed his soft manicured fingers on the back of her hand; giving reassurance for the physical contact between them. His expensive aftershave opened her senses to the warm, intoxicating scent of masculinity.

Sofie's breathing had become rapid and her heart was racing. It had little to do with the physical exhaustion of climbing to the double-height space of the penthouse wing, and everything to do with how out of her depth she felt. Her only comfort was the adrenaline pumping through her veins. It would help her stay on high alert and withstand this inexplicable gravitation towards him.

"This way," he said, pointing down a dimly lit hallway.

His quiet confidence kindled flames deep within Sofie's heart and his suggestive glances made them roar to a reckless fire before she had time to stamp them out. He swiped his keycard at the end of the floor and held the door open for her to enter his bedroom suite.

Sofie hesitated. This feels like a first date. How did he create such a special atmosphere with just a short walk? Worse even: it felt like the date was successful; like she wanted to take it to the next base, already.

"We have four visits," Sofie hedged. "Today, I only want to talk."

She needed to cut off any further advances from this skilled courtesan. It was the safest option. The necessary option, because she did not trust herself around him.

"Very well. This is your time and I am at your command, however you see fit."

He smiled and somehow this rehearsed line sounded genuine and comforting.

Sofie entered the dark room. Indirect light sources, tinged it in an amber glow and accentuated the extravagant flower arrangements and delicate tapestry walls. It created a cosy yet stimulating atmosphere.

"Can I offer you something to drink?" He pointed to a small table with a heavy glass decanter and two scotch glasses. "I catered to Mrs. Gartner's preferences. But I have other options, if you prefer something lighter. Champagne? Or a Tonic Water, perhaps?"

"Yes, tonic sounds great. Thanks."

A casual non-alcoholic drink would squash the illusion this was more than a business transaction; would stop it feeling like a date.

"Please, take a seat," he smiled, handing her the sparkly drink.

It felt icy against her skin, but did little to cool her overheated senses. She picked a spot on the large leather sofa with the shortest path to the exit. Old habits: Keep your escape route open. Instead of seating himself next to her, he took the armchair opposite, giving her space and heeding her request.

"What would you like to talk about, Mrs...." He paused. "I don't actually know your name."

There was no embarrassment in his voice. To him, this seemed an entertaining diversion from his routine; an amusement.

Good! Maybe, he lets his guard down and I get all the information I need today. Avoiding a second visit was certainly her preference, even if a small part of her would be disappointed.