Blindsided 21

“So, Ruby, how do you like it here so far?” Pamela asked Robbie as she leaned over the lobby desk.

“Erm… it’s great,” Robbie replied, looking up while forcing a smile.

“Well, you seemed to have taken to it like a duck in water,” Pamela said, smiling back. “I know you’ve worked in some big hotels before, but even so, it usually takes people a few days to get used to our system.”

“Well, it’s easy when you’ve done it for years,” Robbie thought as he pushed a strand of blonde hair from his face.

“Oh, err… thanks,” he replied. “I’m Just trying to do a good job.”

“Well, you are definitely doing that, young lady” Pamela enthusiastically replied. “And I love how you look after your appearance. Image is very important to us here at the Grand. But, saying that, those nails of yours are a little long. You might want to think about shortening them.”

Having fumbled with the keyboard and mouse all morning, Robbie Looked down at his hands in frustration. “Urm… yes, ok, Pamela, I can do that," he replied, trying not to show his embarrassment.

“Liar, liar, panties on fire,” came the voice of Agatha in his ear. Ignoring her Robbie continued grinning at Pamela, hoping she would go away.

“Perfect,” Pamela chimed out. “Well, you seem to have everything under control here. So, I’ll leave you to it for a while. You’ve got my number if you need me.”

“Ok, thanks, Pamela. Will do.” Robbie said before watching Pamela turn and walk away.

“Why didn’t you tell her how much you love your nails and how a Barbie doll like you can’t possibly live without them?” Agatha said in a mocking tone.

“What! and get fired?” Robbie groaned while scratching his knee through his thick, itchy tights. “I’m sure you’d love that, right? Then what? Another forfeit?”

“Oh, so touchy today,” Agatha replied while chucking, “No, you’re right. Whatever you do, don’t get fired, or it’s game over, sweet cheeks.”

Groaning, Robbie shook his head. “What am I doing here anyway?” he asked in an annoyed tone. “What have you possibly got to gain from doing all this to me?”

“Oh, Ruby, are you not happy to be back at work?” Agatha mocked. “I thought you’d be thrilled to be back in your old job?”

“Happy! Are you insane? This is so fucked up,” Robbie whined.

“Now, now, watch your language, young lady. I can assure you that I’m not insane. You’ll understand one day, but for now, I need you to walk over to the front door. A special guest is arriving, and I need you there to greet them.”

“A guest! Robbie exclaimed. “Who? What guest?"

“You’ll find out when you get there,” Agatha replied. “Now, get going, princess.”

Feeling the muscles in his lower legs uncomfortably stretch, Robbie slowly lifted himself back onto his high-heeled feet. “Fine,” he muttered as he set off, trotting across the lobby floor.

“At least tell me how long I have to work here,” he asked while looking down at his skirted legs clicking loudly in time with his mincing steps.

“No more questions now, dollface” Agatha replied. “It’s time to work your charm.”

Robbie was about to ask what she meant by the comment but was instead distracted by a horrifying sight walking through the Grand entrance. “Ruby, is that you?” Came the voice of James Hemingsworth.

“James!” Robbie exclaimed. “What are you doing here?”

Stopping in front of the feminised man, James looked puzzled. “This is where I’m staying. Didn't I mention t the other day?” He replied before raising an eyebrow. “But I didn't realise you worked here? Why didn’t you mention it earlier?"

“Tell him that you do escort work on the side and that your boss doesn’t know about it,” Agatha said down his ear.

“I… err… just started here today,” Robbie stuttered. “My other job is a secret, you know? My boss wouldn’t like it if she found out.”

“Oh, I see,” James answered, nodding. “Well don’t worry. I won’t tell on you." There was a moment of awkward silence before James cleared his throat. "Well, anyway, It’s lovely to see you again. You are looking as beautiful as ever. More so, perhaps! Did you change your hair?”

“Thanks,” Robbie muttered, feeling incredibly uncomfortable. “I got a little work done.”

“Tell him he looks handsome,” Agatha commanded down his ear. "Tell him you want to get down on your knees and..."

“Shut up!” Robbie mumbled as he shook with rage.

“What was that?” A confused-looking James asked.

“Oh, nothing,” Robbie quickly answered. “I was just clearing my throat.”

“Oh, ok,” James said while smiling. “So, I was wondering. Are you working tonight?”

“Urm… no,” Robbie blurted out without thinking.

“I see. Well, perhaps you would accompany me for dinner later?” James asked as his smile became broader.

“Agree,” said the voice in his ear, but unfortunately, Robbie missed the command as his body chose that moment to sneeze loudly.

(See image 30)

"Bless you," James said while he rummaged around in his pocket. Producing a handkerchief, he offered it to Robbie.

“Thank you," Robbie replied, accepting the handkerchief before wiping his nose. "And thank you for the offer, James, but I'm afraid I can’t tonight. I have... err… a... an appointment.”

“An appointment?” James asked with a suspicious look in his eye. "What kind of appointment? If you don't mind me asking?"

"Uhm... it's... tanning," Robbie blurted out, not quite sure where the idea came from.

"Well, that shouldn't take all night," James replied. "How about we meet afterwards? I know this amazing little restaurant in the city. They have the best..."

“And a facial," Robbie announced, butting in. "And I need to get my nails done. My boss made a comment about them earlier, and I don't want to make a bad impression."

For a few seconds, the pair looked at each other, neither knowing what to say, until Robbie, unable to take the silence anymore, spoke up. “Well, it was nice seeing you again, James. But I really must get back to work now. Bye." Turning, he tottered away, moving as quickly as possible on his stiletto heels without looking back.

“Tanning! A facial! Really?” Agatha spat down his ear. “I told you to go out with him. But, fine! If you'd rather pretty yourself up instead. You’ve got it, Blondie!”

Feeling as though he was about to pass out, Robbie turned a corner and slumped against a wall. “What! No! I didn’t mean that. I panicked. I just needed to get away before I fainted.”

“Well, tough shit, girlie! You’ve failed today’s challenge,” Agatha angrily announced. “Finish your shift and head to your friend’s salon. I’ll arrange the appointment you want so badly.”

Robbie wanted to argue but couldn't muster the strength. Every muscle in his body was aching. With the room spinning, he closed his heavily made-up eyes and let out a heavy sigh. He knew he had fucked up, and now he'd have to face the consequences.