Consequences

five.
    “No, miss, he will be back.”
    “What?”
    “He will be here at six to pick you up. You are to accompany him to the symphony.”
    Claire stared at Catherine in disbelief. She’d just been permitted to be outdoors, and now she was going to Davenport to a symphony. Saying “ No, thank you ” didn’t seem to be an option. Her mind swirled. “Catherine, I’ve never been to a symphony before. Can you please help me?” Claire prayed that this wasn’t another test about appropriate dress.
    “Of course, I will, miss. Now let’s go up to your room, and we will get started.”
    They did. Catherine went directly into the closet and removed a long black evening gown. It was simple, yet amazingly beautiful. Claire showered again. Catherine helped her with her makeup and hair, piling it upon her head with cascading curls. She even had exquisite earrings for Claire to wear. Securing them in her pierced ears, she thought how long it had been since she’d worn jewelry and how nice they looked with her hair up.
    One accessory that surprised Claire was the handbag. She hadn’t gone anywhere or needed a handbag, but tonight Catherine had one for her. Anthony would be home and ready at six. Apparently, the symphony began at eight, with cocktails at seven. Catherine explained that it took one hour to drive to Davenport, and Eric would chauffeur them in the limousine.
    Before she dressed, still wearing her robe with her hair done and makeup perfect, Claire sat on the edge of the large marble tub and asked Catherine for advice. What did Mr. Rawlings expect of her this evening? How should she act? If he had rules for being out, he hadn’t told her; and if Catherine knew, Claire would truly appreciate being informed.
    Catherine’s eyes shone with care and concern. She wanted to help Claire. She would do anything to make this evening a success for both Claire and Mr. Rawlings. Catherine sat next to Claire and gently took her hands in her own. “Ms. Claire, you are to look beautiful, and you do.” Her smile reassured Claire, who nodded as Catherine spoke. “Mr. Rawlings is a very influential businessman. He is a fervent believer in appearance. If things look right on the surface the underside is rarely questioned. However, things may be great in reality, but if one perceives them to be amiss, it is difficult to change that perception. Therefore, Ms. Claire, you are expected to be the perfect companion: beautiful, polite, contented, and appreciative.”
    Claire thought to herself, Well, perfect   .   .   . okay, no pressure.
    Catherine continued, “A man of Mr. Rawlings’s standing is constantly observed by others. Some watch to imitate, others watch to mar. That is why he requires his home to be a place of quietude. He has to do so much for so many, that he needs a place for repose and to refuel. That is where you have been so good for him.” Claire looked into Catherine’s eyes, she was sincere. Claire believed Catherine had Mr. Rawlings’s best interests at heart. However, she was sure Catherine didn’t understand the ways he expected to be helped . “But above all, Mr. Rawlings requires confidentiality on the part of anyone who works for him or is near to him.” Claire pondered that thought. “Ms. Claire, you have had the rare opportunity to get to know Mr. Rawlings in a way most do not. The information you hold must not be shared with anyone. He has allowed you to see a more intimate side of himself. The Mr. Rawlings the world knows is much more guarded. He has placed a trust in you and you should know he does not fully trust many people. Do not ever discuss Mr. Rawlings or your relationship with anyone.” Catherine smiled and squeezed Claire’s hands. “I know you will be wonderful, Ms. Claire. Mr. Rawlings will be proud to have you on his arm.”
    For a moment, Claire sat silently contemplating Catherine’s words: rare opportunity? A trust? Intimate side of himself? This wasn’t something she asked for. With all honesty she considered the possibility of bolting from the symphony. Did Catherine expect her to feel honored? She mostly felt . . . well, conflicted.
    Catherine insisted that Claire eat a light dinner before dressing. The beaded silk gown with the halter bodice fit like it had been made for Claire. With the Ralph Lauren black high-heeled shoes the dress’ length was perfect. The beading made the material heavier than Claire had anticipated. Watching herself in the mirror, Claire