SIX

I.V

Chapter Six: The Contract Morning

POV: Sarah

Sleep evaded me the entire night. I tossed from one side of the bed to the other, my mind racing with questions about what would happen when I finally faced Adrian Cole again.

Will he accept my terms? It is only a one year agreement. After that I get the money and I can finally reclaim my life. No big deal.

I muttered the words to myself and swung my legs off the bed in frustration. I glanced at Claire, who had dragged me into this mess. 

She slept peacefully beside me. For a brief moment I considered yanking her hair to vent my irritation, but her calm expression stopped me. I turned away instead.

Daybreak finally arrived. Claire let out a loud yawn that filled the small room. I shot her an irritable look.

A sharp scream escaped her lips the moment she saw my face. I quickly clamped my palm over her mouth.

Sarah what happened to you? Did you dig up a grave overnight or get bitten by a zombie?

Claire patted herself down and lifted the bedspread as if searching for something hidden underneath. She let out a nervous laugh. I am not beaten. But how come you look completely lifeless? Those dark circles under your eyes are wild. Your lips look pale like you got kissed by a vengeful ghost.

Her nonstop chatter only worsened my mood. I stood up and headed straight to the bathroom.

Inside, Adrian face and his commanding words replayed in my mind with every splash of cold water. An unexplained chill ran down my spine. I showered quickly and stepped out feeling only slightly more awake.

Is there an occasion today that I do not know about? You look too put together for work. Claire mumbled with a mouthful of bread. Are you not going to work today?

I stared at her in confusion. Had she truly forgotten what day this was?

I called in sick. I replied while rummaging through my tiny closet for anything decent to wear.

What? You? Sick? Claire rushed over and pressed her hand to my forehead. Where does it hurt? We need to go to the hospital. I will call our family doctor.

I grabbed her wrist before she could dial. She stared at me puzzled. Then realization dawned on her. Her eyes widened.

Ah. It is today. You are meeting him today. How could I forget?

Claire slapped her forehead dramatically and pushed me aside. She began rummaging through my closet, tossing outfits onto the bed one by one. Finally she turned to me with a sigh.

There is nothing decent here, Sarah. I have told you many times to buy yourself something nice. Now you have no proper outfit for such an important day.

She was right. My life had revolved around work and saving every penny. I had never indulged in anything for myself.

Just then my phone buzzed on the bedside table.

Unknown Number: Stanley is coming to pick you up. He will be there soon. Hope you are ready.

Claire and I exchanged wide eyed looks at the scattered clothes everywhere. She grabbed her own phone and typed rapidly.

What are you doing? I asked.

She didn't answer. A few minutes later she set the phone down with a satisfied grin and gave herself a thumbs up.

A knock sounded at the door shortly after. Claire told me to sit and went to answer it herself.

Aha. It is here. She returned carrying a neatly packaged box with a familiar designer label. Your dress is here, girl.

I checked the label twice to make sure my eyes were not playing tricks. She had gotten me a dress from one of my favorite designers. I threw my arms around her neck.

Thank you, Claire.

Well consider it my apology for dragging you into this twisted blind date. She pouted cutely. I could not help but smile.

Now get dressed. Stanley will arrive soon and we do not want to keep him waiting. Claire said as she unboxed the outfit. No matter what happens today you need to look your best and stay confident. Go tell that man you are no pushover. Give him your terms and leave him no room to argue.

Her words sounded like a mother preparing her daughter for battle.

A few minutes later my phone buzzed again.

Unknown Number: He is waiting.

I sighed deeply and took one last look in the mirror. I touched my cheek absentmindedly.

Is this really me?

Claire placed a hand on my shoulder. Girl you look absolutely breathtaking. I am sure he will be stunned when he sees you. Who knows, maybe he will not even want a divorce after seeing you like this. She winked playfully.

I made my way downstairs to where Stanley waited. The moment he saw me he stepped forward politely, took my hand, and guided me toward the sleek black Maybach. On instinct I glanced back at the window. Claire stood there waving with a wide grin. For a brief second I forgot my worries and waved back.

Finally the car pulled up to Adrian company tower. The tall majestic building left me speechless.

Stanley opened the door and helped me out. I ignored the curious stares and murmurs from staff as he led me to the private elevator that would take us to the top floor. He stood behind me with his usual professional posture, walkie talkie in his ear.

We are here, ma am. Stanley calm voice pulled me from my thoughts as he gestured forward.

The click of my heels against the polished marble floor echoed through the hallway. Everything felt colder with each step closer to Adrian office. My hands turned icy and a wave of regret washed over me.

Did I make the right choice by coming here today? What if he changed his mind? What if he already discovered I am an imposter? Will he even listen to my terms?

Chaotic thoughts flooded my mind at the last moment. I fought the urge to turn and run. I reminded myself of the massive penalty f*e for breaking the contract.

You can do this, Sarah. He is only human just like you. Give him your terms,signed the agreement deal,be his contract wife then end these like it never happened. I whispered to myself.

My anxious expression refused to relax.

Stanley knocked twice on the large door then stepped aside.

Mr Adrian is waiting for you inside.