She came out in a shimmery negligee. It looked good on her, its folds rustling, parting, exposing her legs with every swaying stride. She dropped upon the bed carelessly, unconcerned about the cling of the garment. It remained open here and there, quite revealing.

The glass was cold in my hands and yet I could feel my palms sweating. Strong as the liquor was, it had become almost tasteless to me. Because there was another taste I craved. A taste far more tempting. But an awkwardness still prevailed between us, keeping me from my goal. I just couldn't take the initiative.

Casual conversation became my only alternative. "Inez, what was that about the perfume? A fetish of yours?"

"Not exactly. But it might be one of yours. I wanted everything to be nice for you. As perfect as possible. Know what I mean?"

"I-I'm not sure I do."

"Oh hell, it's just one of the things I've got to think twice about. A girl in my business has to keep a close watch over all the little details."

"A girl in…" I gulped and swallowed the rest of my shocked speech. But it was too late. Obviously in shock herself, she must have read my expression of dismay only too accurately.

"I'll be damned. Honey? You mean you didn't know? Down there in the lobby – you really didn't know? Rory?"

"I-I just didn't."

"Hmm. And all this time I thought…"

"I'm sorry."

"Forget it. What's to be sorry about? I needed the shower anyway. And I don't mind wasting a little perfume."

"Do you want me to leave?" I stood up.

"Leave? If you want to. That's up to you, isn't it? Now that you know, maybe you'd still like to stay awhile."

"Oh. But-but then I'd…"

"As a matter of fact, I think you ought to stay. You look as if you need it. And what the hell, twenty bucks is no great fortune. Bargain rates, because of our misunderstanding. You can afford twenty dollars, can't you?"