A/N Thank you so much for all the follows. I'm writing this entire story whilst laying in bed in the wee hour or so before I fall asleep so apologies if the whole thing is littered with grammatical errors or is just not on point character wise (as it's my first fiction, I have no beta). Thank you for sticking with me, my PWP is turning into a slightly longer, deeper piece than I anticipated. I'm trying to keep the chapters short but sweet to keep you along for the ride. On we go...
Chapter 4.
The quiet pace to the evening had provided Maura with plenty of opportunities to really develop her role and make decisions about the kind of person she was playing. She relished these rare opportunities where she was able to step outside herself and really enjoy the freedom undercover work afforded her.
Whilst considering the psychology of her alter ego she spent some time also considering the companion she had spoken with earlier, her part seemed to encompass more of a geisha role than escort, or worse. Whilst not the only companion working the clients she was certainly the most intriguing and obviously very popular. She embodied sensuality and class and clearly knew many of the patrons very, very well, even suggesting to Maura wines to serve with meals for several of those dining.
Maura found herself talking to the southern beauty at every opportunity and the young lady seemed to reciprocate, encouraging conversation whenever she was able.
Bianca, not her real name she explained, had been enjoying working at Barron's for a year. She was quick to explain that the salubrious elements were at the companions discretion and she rarely crossed that line. Mainly the job was to make the clients feel at home, comfortable, adored even but mainly pampered. "These folks have money up to their eyeballs but often, they just want somebody to listen to them, enjoy a drink with them without expecting them to be 'Mr Big Shot' all the time. Some just want a slow dance and a foot rub. And the gifts they lavish on us in return is incredible. For these gentleman, money literally means nothing but so often the only way they know how to show gratitude is with gifts. Some have been so ludicrously expensive and valuable I've had to turn them down. Gently of course." She added quickly. "There's only two real rules in my line of work. Don't upset the client. And DO NOT fall for one." Maura nodded, cleaning the bar top whilst listening intently.
"Which one is the hardest?" Maura enquired. Bianca looked up, her eyes widening slightly, this microexpression indicating she was clearly caught off guard by the question. She countered by smiling confidently, unaware of Maura's obsession with body language. "Well they may be highly strung and prone to displeasure but I would never be so impulsive, nor would I be so vacuous to confuse their appreciation for love." Before Maura could continue probing on the matter, her acquaintances attention wavered, she gathered the martini in front of her and consumed the drink in one swallow. "I heard whispers that there may be a new member joining us tonight. And blow me if that ain't one tall drink o' water right there. Those legs just keep going to forever!" Maura shifted her gaze to follow the woman's scrutiny.
Jane always drew attention to herself, she seemed incapable of keeping a low profile. She exuded confidence and whether that came from her heritage, her line of work or just her personal a little Maura was unsure however, no one could deny that in that suit, those raven locks half tumbling half pinned back and with that swagger, all eyes were on Jane and none more so than Maura's, who was finding that her warmth towards Bianca was suddenly, inexplicably cooling.