RC.

Ch2 ......... I

I didn't see Carter at all today. We exchanged by emails. I had lunch with Colin and Matt to tell them the news.

I don't really know how Matt took it. Even if he congratulated me and teased me a little, he wasn't as talkative as usual. As for Colin... well Colin never talks anyway.

I know he'll get used to it... He'll find some other victim for his jokes.

Anyway, life certainly hasn't been dull today! I have to say that things are much more exciting up here!

I close the last open window on my computer. It's time to leave now.

Suddenly, I notice someone in front of me. I jump!

T:"Mr. Carter...?"

How long has been here, exactly?

Mr. Carter:"The day's not over yet, Miss White. We have an interview with Fox news."

T:"We?"

Mr. Carter:"You're coming with me. You have to learn."

I quickly glance at the time.

T:"But it's 19h30..."

Mr. Carter:"Do you remember, I asked you to be available on request."

His words come back to mind : "...until you leave the building". Something else I should have looked into before accepting.

Anyway, I can't really see myself explaining how I need to get home for my hamster!

T:"Would you like me to call a cab?"

He smiles.

Mr. Carter:"It won't be necessary."

                        
                           ◇ ◇ ◇

He ushers me out of the office and leads me to the elevator. At this time, there's nobody else around.

                          ◇ ◇ ◇

As we both step into the elevator, it's as if my body was reacting subconsciously.

I feel attracted. Magnetised, like a moth to the light. There's something about him that stirs me. It's physical...

I sigh fixing the ground to straighten my thoughts.

Mr. Carter:"Is everything ok?"

T:"Yes yes! Of course!"

Have you ever been in the presence of a man who while he wakes your need for protection also arouses exhilarating passion?

It's what I feel when I'm with him, though I hardly know him.

The place, the sensations his presence gives me... All remind me...of my encounter in this elevator, that night with a stranger.

(My god... What if...?)

I'm crippled by a terrible thought!

What if the mystery man was,
in fact, Carter?!

I suddenly feel feverish. I tighten my arms around my bag, clenching my cold wet hands.

No! That's too crazy! I'm out of my mind!! I should quickly get a grip before I arouse suspicion.

Mr. Carter:"Are you sure you're ok? You're very pale, suddenly."

T:"Yes, yes. It must be the elevator lights."

I give him a faint smile.

In another world, I could have relied : "Actually I'm wondering whether or not you're the guy I almost made love with, in this elevator?"

But in the real world, I'll just make do with staring at the changing floor numbers and praying that we get out of here as quickly as possible.