Unwanted Heat

The mayor gives a lengthy speech, making a point to thank each donor individually for their contribution to the museum. The speech is politically focused of course-discussing the importance of bringing the arts back to the community even when budget cuts prevent the government from providing financial support. The speech makes me think, despite being incredibly successful, Nicholas or PFS makes it a point to donate money to different causes: first the New Beginnings Gala and now to the museum. It’s nice to know that not everyone in the world is focused on keeping the money they earn. It’s rare for someone wanting to give back to the community the way Nicholas does.

“Are you ready to leave?” Nicholas whispers to me as soon as the speech ends.

“Whenever you’re ready.”

He takes my hand and leads me to the lobby where Carter is waiting for us; with a simple nod Carter quickly disappears ahead of us while we take in key exhibit pieces in the lobby. A few minutes later Nicholas’s phone buzzes. Without looking at it he leads me out the door where the press is once again waiting for us.

“Mr. Parker, who is your date?”

“Ms… Ms… what’s your connection to Mr. Parker?”

Once again we ignore the press, instead heading to the SUV that Carter has waiting for us. Nicholas sighs heavily as soon as the door closes, clearly relieved to be away from the press.

“PFS will be issuing a statement tomorrow about us.”

“Okay…”

“Essentially, I am going to confirm that we are dating and will ask that they give us privacy. Of course, they won’t but according to my PR department this is the best way to answer a few of their questions but still maintain control of at least some of the information that is provided to them.”

“That makes sense.”

“If any of the press gives you a hard time, I want you to let me know as soon as possible. This is Carter’s direct number-you can reach him day or night. If anyone bothers you at home or at work, please call Carter. If needed, we can provide you with security to help you deal with the press. I don’t want you to be at risk because of this arrangement.”

“Thank you, Nicholas. I’m sure it will be fine, but I appreciate the offer,” I take the business card and place it in my clutch.

“Carter has arranged for a car service to meet us at PFS to take you home tonight. If you are agreeable, I would like to have the same car service pick you up for events. They have signed a non-disclosure agreement with us to ensure your privacy. Carter and I both feel it is safest if we only use one car service, as it reduces the risk of someone leaking details about your personal life to the press.”Property of Nô)(velDr(a)ma.Org.

“Oh… okay.”

“Thank you for agreeing to this. I know you probably didn’t anticipate all of this when you met with Bridget.”

“I didn’t but so far the press hasn’t bothered me. I’m sure that will likely change after today, but I’ll be prepared if they start questioning me.”

“Thank you again for tonight, I appreciate you attending the exhibit opening with me,” Nicholas says when Carter parks the car in PFS’s parking garage. A black sedan is waiting next to us which I assume is the car service.

“It was nice Nicholas; I’ve never been to that museum before so it was a new experience.”

“I’ll see you on Saturday?”

“Yes, I’ve confirmed my schedule with Bridget.”

Nicholas leans over, kissing me gently on the cheek, letting his lips linger a few seconds longer than they have before. He squeezes my hand just before Carter opens the door but he looks as if he wants to say something. Instead he simply shakes his head and lets go of my hand. Carter escorts me to the awaiting car, introduces me to the driver and then closes the door behind me. We drive out of the parking garage a few minutes later and like that, I’m quickly lost in my thoughts about tonight and this arrangement with Nicholas.

I’ve enjoyed the couple of dates that we have had so far, which surprises me because I guess I expected them to be boring and for me to feel uncomfortable like I did with him. I’ve enjoyed my private life, so the thought of the press learning more about me is unnerving. I knew this was something that would likely happen when I took the job with Bridget. In the back of my head I can’t help but worry a little if he will find me now that my picture is going to be all over the place. He only contacted me once after I left, having somehow tracked down where I was working. He made it clear he wanted nothing more to do with me. Assuming nothing has changed, I don’t expect him to try to get a hold of me because I’m pictured with Nicholas but it’s still something in the back of my mind. I wish I could just move on with my life and never have to worry about him again, but even if the media weren’t a concern, he never fails to make an appearance in my nightmares when I least expect it.

“Ma’am,” the driver quickly pulls me from my thoughts to alert me that we’ve arrived at my apartment building.

“Thank you.”

I quickly get out of the car and into the building, ignoring the whistles and remarks from the usual crowd gathered on the front stoop. I want to look for a better place to live but with this arrangement still being so new with Nicholas, I’m worried about what will happen if I sign a lease on a new apartment that costs much more than this one does… only for Nicholas to decide he doesn’t need me any longer and then I’m left with rent I can’t pay. I go to put my key in the lock but the door suddenly eases open without being unlocked.

“What the hell?”