Uncovered by Amy Silva Page A

can recognize talent. You really are a good worker and I’d hate to lose you. I stopped by earlier this week to try and talk to you about a possible promotion.”

    Shit, I wish I didn’t need that money.

    “What kind of a promotion?” I blurted too quickly.

    “Just allow me a little of your time and I’ll explain everything. Did you eat dinner yet?”

    “No.” I said.

    “Good, I am going to pick you up in an hour,” he said with excitement. “We’ll go to Opera steakhouse, my treat. I promise you will like what you hear and I’ll be strictly professional.”

    “Uh.” dammit “Fine.”

    An hour later he pulled up in a black Mercedes in front of my door, the car looked like it had seen better days.

    I walked out wearing my black cocktail dress and my Gucci heels. I didn’t really want to impress anyone, especially him, but Opera was one of those places you dressed to impress.

    “Ferrari is getting detailed.” He casually said, “This car’s color looks good with your dress.”

    “Xavier.” I raised my eyebrow.

    “I don’t mean nothing by it!” he threw his hands up in defense. “Xavier is true gentleman now.”

    He dropped the car in the gear and peeled off, gluing me to the seat.

    We pulled up to Opera and valet the car. The place was impressive with a lush red carpet and long Roman style columns to each side of the door. It looked like an actual Opera house had been converted into a luxurious restaurant. Inside the place was decked out with purple and silver theme, creating an interesting modern decor against the mural covered ceilings. We sat down and Xavier proceeded to order for both of us.

    “Two chef’s special prime ribs.” He rattled off to the waiter, “Medium rare for me, and?” he looked at me.

    “Same.” I nodded.

    “Great minds!” he chuckled and pointed to the wine list.

    “And a bottle of wine, Chavenue de Pari. For our little celebration.”

    “Very well sir, an excellent choice.” Retorted the waiter.

    “Look Xavier, you didn’t have to bring me here to talk.” I said, trying to curb his growing enthusiasm.

    “Kate, Kate, please. After we fought I feel so bad. I realize I say very mean thing to a nice girl. But also such a valuable professional.” He started laying into the accent. I wondered if this was his genuine self or if he was doing it on purpose.

    “Yes, it hurt me very much to hear I was only employed for my looks.” I said studying him.

    “I know, I know, Xavier very bad.” He reached for my hand and placed mine into his. “Please allow me to say ‘sorry’ and try to make it up to you. I have something I think you’ll like to hear very much.” He stretched his mouth into a wide grin. “Kate, our company is on the verge of a very large expansion. I am looking to make Bevy the number one choice for model representation. I need all the good talent we have.” He lowered his voice. “You have shown me what you can do, that you can take initiative. I would like very much to have you on board as an event manager. This position would mean more involvement, more freedom in decision making, and a lot more money.” He nodded with excitement.

    I let the words sink in. The waiter came back with the wine and I took a sip thinking over the offer. “That sounds great Xavier, but also like a lot of commitment. I plan to start school this year.” I said.

    “Of course, of course.” He rubbed his chin as he thought. “You know, it’s totally doable. Why don’t you work a few months and get the experience now, and then you can come on as a consultant after? Basically you’d be showing up for the events once in awhile when the big shows happen. It would be a great way to make money while in school, plus I am sure it’d get you noticed by your professors, to be already successful in management position while most others are still clueless about the real world.”

    He did have a point, but I still wasn’t sure.

    “Xavier, I am not