"She's very nice looking, Mr. Harvey. You might want to talk to her."

The intercom clicked off and Kim sat waiting. She was dreadfully nervous and suddenly wished she hadn't come. But she had to get some consideration for Curt or her dream life would come to a horrible end.

The intercom buzzed and Harriett said, "You can go in now, Mrs. Stevens."

Kim rose on shaking legs and went through the door into an enormous office. The desk was expansive, heavy, and crescent shaped. The room was also furnished with a couch and chairs, coffee table, bookcases and a bar. Behind that desk sat a man of about fifty-five with a pot belly, broad shoulders, a balding head and piercing grey eyes. He exuded power and a kind of predatory, pragmatic aura. Kim was immediately intimidated anew.

All at once, Harvey smiled. "My God, I believe you're the nicest looking girl that's ever walked through that door. It shouldn't be difficult to place you somewhere in the organisation. Are you interested in public relations?"

Kim hesitated. "Uh, Mr. Harvey…" And then she smiled, for his broad smile and friendly manner had totally disarmed her.

"Really, Miss, you could even get by without having to type very well. We might be able to find you a place in the reception office." His eyes devoured her. "Like a drink?"

"Y-yes, that would be nice," Kim stammered.

"Sit down, my dear," Harvey said, crossing to the bar where he began mixing screwdrivers, making sure Kim's was especially strong in alcohol.

Kim took the drink from him and sat on the couch. She had never drunk but once in her life and she felt the sweet and tasty drink warming her stomach and within five minutes she would feel it warming her senses as well. Still, her nerves were on edge inasmuch as Harvey thought she was here to apply for a job when she was actually here to ask a favor of him he might not be eager to grant.