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CONNECTING OBSESSIONS | 23

“Please. Come on through.”

“Hello, Mr Tchoweski.” Rachel recovered her composure and went into his office. No one else was there either. “Am I early? The others not here yet?”

“Others?” her companion echoed as he closed the door, momentarily turning his back to her. “What others?”

“I thought you were seeing all of those on the shortlist.”

“Ah, that’s correct. But one at a time, Ms Starr, one at a time. There are just three of you. You’re the first. I’m seeing the others next week.”

“Oh. Right.” This was not what Rachel was expecting. “Right,” she repeated, quieter.

Tchoweski sat himself behind a large mahogany desk, facing a wall upon which was mounted a long horizontal mirror, with what appeared to be a cupboard door to the right of that. He beckoned Rachel to stand beside him. He was perspiring a little. Odd. The room didn’t feel particularly warm.

Rachel was beginning to feel nervous again. Not the excited nervousness she experienced earlier, but a sixth sense was warning her that something was wrong.

She was standing to one side of his chair when he reached out to put his arm around her thighs, drawing her closer. She stiffened.

“Relax, my dear, relax. I know how much you youngsters want to break into the movies, but it’s a tough business, you know, real tough.” He removed his arm. “I’m sure I can get you a small part in this new movie, but it would be helpful if you could give me a little encouragement.” Rachel didn’t need to ask what he meant but did so anyway.

“Encouragement?” She knew her voice was shaking.

“Why don’t you sit here and we can discuss it, my dear?” Tchoweski indicated his lap.

In an instant, Rachel spun away toward the door. She made no attempt to hide her anger and contempt despite the fear building inside. “I can assure you, Mr Tchoweski, I’m not that desperate to break into the movies as you put it. I’m sorry to have wasted your time and even sorrier that you’ve wasted mine. Goodbye.” And she turned the handle.

The door was locked.