Emery

5.

I slowly wake up. My head still foggy from all the drinking. I open my eyes fully and realize the Sen....Theo is gone. I sit up, disentangling my hair. The memories of last night came flooding back. This man really didn't touch me.

I stand up to notice a little note on the bed. I unfold the note:

Last night was wonderful . I enjoyed every moment of it. In fact, I'm tempted to forget my responsibilities and stay here with you. Till we meet again.

His words send a ripple of uncertainty through me.

I know, deep down, that the senator is offering me something I'd never had before. A relationship. I've worked too hard to build a life for myself, to create a place where I felt safe and in control. I can't risk that for a man, not even a man like him.

As I retreat to my office, I hear a familiar voice. "Looks like someone got fucked like a slut last night..." It's Joe. His muscular frame filling the doorway. "Was this one good or do we not talk about it?"

I sighed, sinking into my chair. "The senator Joe. He...surprised me." I said still confused.

Joe's eyebrow rose. "Yeah? How so?"

I ran a hand through my hair, trying to make sense of the emotions swirling inside me. "He's different, Joe. He actually wants to know me, to understand me.

"Here," Joe says, pouring me a glass of orange juice and handing it to me. "Sounds like you could use this."

I take a sip. "Thanks Joe."

Joe shook his head. "You're in love."

I nearly choke on my drink as he says that statement. "Shut up!" I exclaim.

I glanced away, trying to hide the blush creeping up my neck. Joe's brow furrows as he processes my words. "Emmy, you're not some...some object to be bought and sold. You're a person, with feelings and thoughts and dreams. You deserve better than just being a...transaction."

I scoffed. "Joe, we both know the world we live in. Women like me, we don't get to choose what we deserve. We get what we can, and we make the most of it."

Joe leaned forward, his eyes intense. "Maybe that's true, Emmy. But you're not just any woman. You're Emery." I took another sip of the juice. "Enough about the senator," I said, my voice a little too sharp. "Let's talk about business. We made good money last night, thanks to the minister's friends. I want you to deposit the cash in the account today."

Joe nodded, his expression serious. "You got it." "Yeah, and we need to restock the bar. Make sure we've got enough whiskey, champagne, the works."

Joe scribbled down my instructions on a small notepad, his movements brisk and efficient. "Also, tell Diane, Mabel and Priska to get ready by 9pm. They'll be escorting me to the dinner tonight."

I leaned back in my chair, the weight of my responsibilities settling back on my shoulders like a familiar cloak.

I watch as he walks out my office. I release a deep sigh for the 100th time this morning.