Jesus Christ.
I nod, then open the file again.“Let’s start at the top.”
––––––––
AFTER GOING THROUGHa range of standard questions, I dive into the more intimate ones.
“How did you meet?”
“I moved to New York just over six years ago and met Adam while modeling.”
“Was Mr.Blackmore involved financially in the campaign you were modeling for?”I glance up and find sharp daggers in her eyes as she nods.If murder were legal, I’d put money on her clawing her way across the table between us and slamming her heel into my chest.
That’s right, sweetheart, I’m in charge and I’m not on the menu.
I bet she’s not used to men saying no to her.
Her eyes reluctantly leave mine, and as she reflects on the past, I’m surprised to see her face soften.“No.He was meeting a friend for a drink downstairs and ran into our producer whom I was with.The two knew one another and invited us to join them for a drink.Me and two other models.”
“Was he married at the time?”I ask, bobbing my pen back and forth, which seems to irritate her.
I’m not sad.
“No,” she frowns.
“Engaged?”I ask because I’m a sadist.
“No,” she frowns again, then recrosses her legs.“Adam and I fell in love.I thought we would be together forever,Mr.Sterling.”
Sure.
Until the money ran out.
“Where did you marry?”
“In the park.Near the zoo.It was intimate—”
“Your father gave you away?”I ask as her body stiffens.
Interesting.
“I’m not sure what my wedding day has to do with the divorce.Shouldn’t you be asking questions about today?About him.About what I’m seeking?”
We all know the answer to that, darling.You want everything.
I feel my associates’ eyes on me, as Courtney is somewhat right.I don’t usually ask for so many details, but I’m irritated by her and feel like ruffling her gold-seeking feathers.
It is my job to represent her, not believe her or like her.
“Yes or no?”I press, unperturbed.
“No,” Courtney sighs.“They...my parents...no, he did not give me away.”
For a moment, a hint of sadness in her expression gets under my skin, but I quickly brush it away.Compassion is a useless emotion in my field of work.
Mostly.
“I feel like I’m on trial.”Annoyed eyes snap to mine.
