THE GENEROUS STRANGER

Strangers Until Morning

She was accustomed to getting exactly what she paid for. This time, however, the most expensive surprise was still waiting.

Saturday Evening — A Woman of Particular Tastes

Margaret Sterling stood outside the Beaumont Grand Hotel, admiring her reflection in the polished glass doors.

At fifty-one, she was wealthy, independent, divorced, and quite accustomed to getting her own way.

She owned a successful investment company, lived in a magnificent penthouse, and employed enough people that she rarely had to concern herself with life's smaller inconveniences.

Unfortunately, there were certain things money had never quite managed to provide.

Companionship, for example.

Or affection.

Or the simple pleasure of waking beside someone who actually wanted to be there.

Margaret had experimented with dating.

She found it exhausting.

Too many expectations. Too many complications. Too many women who wanted to know where a relationship was going before it had properly begun.

Tonight, she had decided on a different arrangement.

An exclusive private companionship agency had recommended several women.

Margaret had reviewed their profiles carefully.

Then she had selected one.

Thirty-two years old. Beautiful. Intelligent. Experienced. Particularly attentive to older female clients.

Professional name: Valentina.

The agency was expensive.

Very expensive.

Margaret considered that reassuring.

She preferred quality.

She also preferred discretion.

The Beaumont Grand had reserved one of its finest suites for her until Monday morning.

Champagne was waiting.

Dinner had been arranged.

And Valentina was expected at eight o'clock.

Margaret checked her watch.

Seven-thirty.

Perfect.

She adjusted her midnight-blue satin dress, smiled at the doorman, and entered the hotel.

Eight O'Clock Sharp

Margaret was inspecting the champagne when someone knocked.

She glanced at the clock.

Eight exactly.

Good. At least the girl is punctual.

She opened the door.

And smiled with immediate approval.

Valentina was magnificent.

Tall, slender, with long dark waves, striking green eyes, and a beautifully fitted burgundy cocktail dress.

Her high heels were elegant, her makeup immaculate, and her smile warm without being overly familiar.

"Good evening," the younger woman said. "You must be Margaret."

"Indeed."

"I'm Valentina."

Margaret looked her over appreciatively.

"Yes. I can see why the agency recommended you."

Valentina smiled.

"Thank you."

"Turn around for me, darling."

For the briefest moment, Valentina looked surprised.

Then she smiled and turned gracefully, allowing Margaret to admire her dress.

"Very nice."

She turned back.

"Do I pass inspection?"

Margaret laughed.

"With flying colors."

"Wonderful."

"Come inside."

Valentina entered the luxurious suite.

Margaret closed the door.

"May I take your coat?"

"I didn't bring one."

"Very sensible."

Margaret gestured toward the sitting room.

"Now, before we begin, I prefer to make certain we understand one another."

Valentina turned toward her.

"Of course."

"I appreciate good company, intelligent conversation, and a woman who knows how to behave."

"Naturally."

"I dislike arguments, unnecessary complications, and being told what I ought to want."

Valentina smiled.

"I don't imagine you're told that very often."

"You'd be surprised."

Margaret studied her.

"Are you comfortable with a woman who likes taking the lead?"

Valentina met her eyes.

"Very comfortable, ma'am."

Margaret smiled.

"Excellent."

Valentina's answer pleased her.

Not because she wanted someone frightened or submissive.

Quite the opposite.

She appreciated a woman confident enough to understand the arrangement and professional enough to honor it.

"Well, darling," Margaret said, "I think you'll do nicely."

Valentina inclined her head.

"Thank you, ma'am."

"And you can call me Margaret when we're being informal."

"Of course, Margaret."

Margaret offered her arm.

"Come along. Let's have some champagne."

An Excellent Choice

They settled on the enormous velvet sofa overlooking the city.

Margaret poured two glasses.

"To a pleasant evening."

Valentina raised hers.

"To a very pleasant evening."

Their glasses touched.

Margaret studied her companion over the rim of her glass.

"Tell me, Valentina, how long have you been doing this?"

"Not terribly long."

"Really? You seem quite experienced."

"I learn quickly."

Margaret smiled.

"A useful quality."

"Especially in my profession."

"And do you enjoy your work?"

Valentina hesitated.

"Some evenings more than others."

"How diplomatic."

Valentina laughed.

"Would you prefer a more honest answer?"

"Always."

"Some clients are delightful. Others are demanding in rather unpleasant ways."

Margaret raised an eyebrow.

"And which category do you think I belong to?"

Valentina smiled.

"You're certainly demanding."

"Indeed."

"But I haven't found you unpleasant."

"Good."

Margaret placed her glass on the table.

"Come closer, darling."

Valentina moved nearer.

Margaret studied her beautiful face.

"You have extraordinary eyes."

"Thank you."

"And a lovely mouth."

Valentina smiled.

"Thank you, ma'am."

Margaret gently touched her chin.

"Would you mind if I kissed you?"

"Not at all."

"Good. Because I've been considering it since you arrived."

Valentina laughed softly.

"Then I wouldn't dream of keeping you waiting."

Margaret kissed her.

When they separated, the older woman looked decidedly pleased.

"Very nice."

Valentina smiled.

"Thank you."

Margaret laughed.

"Darling, you sound as though you've just received a favorable performance review."

Valentina grinned.

"Have I?"

"Very favorable."

"Then I'm delighted."

Margaret drew her closer.

"And I think we should repeat that."

"Yes, ma'am."

This time, Valentina kissed her first.

Margaret smiled against her lips.

Excellent choice.

The Woman in Charge

Dinner was served privately at nine.

Margaret had ordered an extravagant selection of dishes, most of which Valentina had never tasted before.

The younger woman was charming.

She laughed at Margaret's jokes, listened attentively, and seemed genuinely interested in her stories.

But Margaret noticed something else.

Valentina was careful.

Very careful.

She watched Margaret's expressions, responded quickly to requests, and never allowed the conversation to become uncomfortable.

When Margaret wanted another glass of champagne, Valentina poured it.

When Margaret suggested moving to the sofa, Valentina followed.

When Margaret asked her to sit closer, she did.

And when Margaret took her hand, Valentina smiled and held it.

The arrangement suited Margaret perfectly.

She could relax without having to explain herself.

Eventually she leaned back against the cushions.

"Valentina?"

"Yes, ma'am?"

"Are you enjoying yourself?"

"Very much."

"Good. I hope you're not simply telling me what I want to hear."

Valentina smiled.

"No, Margaret. You've been lovely."

Margaret raised an eyebrow.

"Lovely?"

"Yes."

"I believe you called me demanding earlier."

"You are."

"And yet lovely?"

Valentina laughed.

"Both can be true."

Margaret considered that.

Then smiled.

"You're a clever girl."

"Thank you."

"And I believe I'm ready to retire."

Valentina glanced toward the bedroom.

"Of course."

Margaret stood.

"I'll use the bathroom first."

"Certainly."

She paused beside Valentina.

"And darling?"

"Yes?"

"I'd like you waiting in bed when I come out."

Valentina smiled.

"Under the covers?"

Margaret laughed.

"That would be a sensible place to wait, wouldn't it?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Excellent. I'll be a few minutes."

Margaret disappeared into the bathroom.

Valentina watched the door close.

Then she smiled to herself.

Well, she certainly knows what she wants.

She removed her earrings, carefully arranged her burgundy dress over a chair, and slipped beneath the enormous bed's white sheets.

For once, she didn't mind being given instructions.

Margaret was attractive, amusing, and considerably kinder than many of the clients she had encountered.

And the suite was magnificent.

I could get used to this.

A few minutes later, the bathroom door opened.

Margaret emerged wearing an elegant cream-colored satin robe.

She stopped when she saw Valentina waiting comfortably beneath the sheets.

"Well, well."

Valentina smiled.

"Just as you requested, ma'am."

Margaret approached the bed.

"Very good."

"Do I get another favorable performance review?"

Margaret laughed.

"That depends on the rest of the evening."

Valentina smiled.

"I'll do my very best."

"I'm sure you will, darling."

Margaret slipped into bed beside her.

For a moment, she simply admired the younger woman.

Then she touched Valentina's cheek.

"You're extraordinarily beautiful."

"Thank you, Margaret."

"And I'm very pleased I chose you."

Valentina's smile softened.

"I'm glad."

Margaret leaned closer.

"Now, darling, I believe there's something you can do for me."

Valentina smiled.

"Of course, ma'am."

The bedside lamp went dark.

And Margaret Sterling discovered that some arrangements could be even more enjoyable than anticipated.

Sunday Morning — An Exceptional Performance

Margaret woke at ten-fifteen.

Sunlight streamed through the enormous windows.

Beside her, Valentina slept peacefully beneath the white sheets.

Margaret smiled.

Well.

She had spent a considerable amount of money on the evening.

And she couldn't remember being quite so delighted with a purchase.

She reached over and gently touched Valentina's shoulder.

"Good morning, darling."

Valentina stirred.

"Good morning."

"Did you sleep well?"

"Very well, thank you."

"Excellent."

Valentina opened her eyes and smiled.

"And you?"

"Marvelously."

"I'm glad."

Margaret kissed her cheek.

"Very glad indeed."

Valentina laughed softly.

"That's wonderful to hear."

Margaret settled back against the pillows.

"Now, darling, I believe you deserve a proper breakfast."

"That sounds lovely."

"Would you arrange it?"

"Of course."

Valentina reached for the room-service menu.

"What would you like?"

Margaret considered.

"Coffee. Fresh fruit. Eggs Benedict. And perhaps some pastries."

Valentina smiled.

"Anything else?"

"Yes."

"What's that?"

"Something for yourself. You must be hungry."

Valentina laughed.

"I am, actually."

"Then order whatever you like."

"Thank you, ma'am."

As Valentina placed the order, Margaret watched her affectionately.

The young woman was efficient.

Attentive.

And very good company.

More importantly, she had made Margaret feel wanted without demanding anything in return beyond their agreed arrangement.

That was precisely what Margaret had hoped for.

When breakfast arrived, they ate in bed.

They talked about travel, music, favorite restaurants, and the peculiar differences between wealthy people and ordinary people.

Valentina proved surprisingly funny.

At one point, she made Margaret laugh so hard that the older woman nearly spilled her coffee.

"Good heavens, girl!"

Valentina grinned.

"Sorry, ma'am."

"Don't apologize. I haven't laughed like that in years."

"I'm glad."

Margaret smiled.

"You really are quite exceptional."

"Thank you."

"And I believe exceptional service deserves exceptional appreciation."

Valentina looked curious.

Margaret reached for her handbag.

She removed a thick cream-colored envelope and handed it to the younger woman.

"Here, darling."

Valentina accepted it.

"What's this?"

"A little something extra."

She opened the envelope.

Then froze.

Inside was a substantial stack of hundred-dollar bills.

She counted them.

Once.

Then again.

Her eyes widened.

"Margaret..."

"Yes?"

"There's five thousand dollars here."

"I know."

Valentina stared at her.

"But that's..."

"More than you expected?"

"Much more."

Margaret smiled.

"Then I've managed to surprise you."

Valentina looked almost overwhelmed.

"I don't know what to say."

"Thank you would be sufficient."

Valentina laughed nervously.

"Thank you, ma'am."

"You're very welcome."

Margaret took her hand.

"You performed exceptionally well, darling. I'm extremely pleased with you."

Valentina's eyes filled with tears.

Margaret looked surprised.

"Oh, my dear. Whatever's wrong?"

Valentina shook her head.

"Nothing."

"Then why are you crying?"

"Because..."

Her voice broke.

"Because you have no idea what this means to me."

Margaret put an arm around her.

"Well, then. I'm glad I gave it to you."

Valentina leaned against her.

"Thank you."

"You're very welcome."

"No, Margaret. I mean it."

She looked into her eyes.

"Thank you."

A Little Too Much Honesty

By noon, they had decided to order lunch.

Neither seemed particularly interested in leaving the suite.

Margaret had paid for Valentina's company until late morning, but the younger woman showed no inclination to depart.

Margaret found that rather flattering.

"Darling," she said, "aren't you supposed to be going somewhere?"

Valentina smiled.

"Eventually."

"Your agency won't complain?"

"No. My appointment with you is finished."

Margaret raised an eyebrow.

"And yet you're still here?"

Valentina looked at her.

"Would you prefer I left?"

Margaret smiled.

"Not particularly."

"Then perhaps I could stay a little longer."

"How charming."

Valentina laughed.

"Besides, I rather enjoy your company."

Margaret looked pleased.

"Well, that's very nice to hear."

Valentina hesitated.

Then she looked down at the envelope resting beside her handbag.

"I wish all my clients were like you."

Margaret laughed.

"Do you now?"

"Very much."

"Surely they can't all be that dreadful."

Valentina's expression changed.

Margaret noticed.

"Darling?"

"It's nothing."

"Valentina."

The younger woman sighed.

"Some appointments are difficult."

"How difficult?"

Valentina looked away.

"Some clients think paying for companionship means they can treat you however they please. They become rude, demanding in ways we never agreed to, or angry when you set boundaries."

Margaret frowned.

"That's unacceptable."

Valentina nodded.

"It can be exhausting."

"Then why do you continue?"

For a moment, Valentina said nothing.

Then she looked at the envelope again.

"Because I need the money."

Margaret studied her.

"That much?"

Valentina nodded.

"My husband and I are in terrible financial trouble."

Margaret's eyebrows rose.

"You're married?"

"Yes."

"How interesting."

Valentina looked embarrassed.

"Does that bother you?"

Margaret laughed.

"Darling, I booked a companion for the weekend, not a prospective wife."

Valentina smiled.

"Thank goodness."

"Now, tell me about these financial problems."

Valentina hesitated.

Then began talking.

Her husband had made several unsuccessful business decisions.

They had borrowed money to keep things going.

Then more money to repay the first loans.

Eventually, legitimate lenders had stopped helping.

And they had turned to people who were considerably less understanding.

"Loan sharks?" Margaret asked.

Valentina nodded.

"They've been threatening us."

Margaret's expression became serious.

"That sounds dangerous."

"It is."

"How much do you owe?"

Valentina looked uncomfortable.

"A great deal."

Margaret didn't press her.

"How did you become involved in this work?"

Valentina hesitated.

Then gave a small, embarrassed laugh.

"Actually, it was my husband's idea."

Margaret stared at her.

"Your husband's?"

"Yes."

"He suggested you become an escort?"

Valentina nodded.

"He knows I prefer women. I've always been honest about that. When things became desperate, he suggested I could earn money accompanying wealthy women."

"And you agreed?"

"Eventually."

"Do you enjoy it?"

Valentina considered the question.

"Sometimes."

She looked at Margaret.

"Last night, for example."

Margaret smiled.

"Well, I'm glad."

"But other nights..."

Valentina shook her head.

"I get through them. I remind myself why I'm doing it."

"For your husband?"

"For both of us. We could lose everything."

Margaret looked at her thoughtfully.

"And what does he think about you spending your nights with other women?"

"He doesn't mind. He says it doesn't threaten our marriage."

Valentina smiled sadly.

"He just wants us out of debt."

Margaret considered this.

Then she leaned forward and took Valentina's hand.

"Well, darling, I hope the money I've given you helps."

Valentina's eyes filled again.

"You can't imagine how much."

Margaret squeezed her hand.

"Good."

They sat quietly for a moment.

Then Margaret smiled.

"Now, I have a proposition."

Valentina looked up immediately.

"Yes?"

Another Appointment

Margaret settled comfortably against the pillows.

"I've enjoyed myself enormously."

Valentina smiled.

"So have I."

"And I've decided I would very much like another evening with you."

Valentina's expression brightened.

"Really?"

"Really."

"When?"

Margaret considered.

"Tonight."

Valentina blinked.

"Tonight?"

"Midnight, I think."

"Midnight?"

"Yes. I have a family engagement this evening, but I expect to be back here before eleven."

Valentina sat a little straighter.

"You're staying at the hotel?"

"Until tomorrow morning."

"I see."

Margaret smiled.

"Would you be available?"

Valentina answered almost immediately.

"Absolutely."

Margaret laughed.

"Good heavens. You didn't even consult your schedule."

"I don't need to."

"Are you certain?"

"Completely."

Margaret looked amused.

"You seem very enthusiastic."

Valentina smiled.

"Margaret, you've been wonderful to me. Of course I'd love to see you again."

"And I assume another generous fee wouldn't hurt?"

Valentina laughed.

"Not at all, ma'am."

Margaret smiled.

"At least you're honest."

"About that, absolutely."

"Excellent. Then it's settled."

Valentina hesitated.

"Would you like me to arrange it through the agency?"

"No. I think we can manage directly."

Margaret reached for her phone.

"Give me your number, darling."

Valentina told her.

Margaret entered it.

Then she pressed the call button.

Valentina's phone rang inside her handbag.

"There," Margaret said. "Now you have mine."

Valentina smiled.

"Thank you."

"Midnight. Room 826. Don't be late."

"I wouldn't dream of it."

"And Valentina?"

"Yes, ma'am?"

Margaret smiled.

"I'd like another memorable evening."

Valentina returned the smile.

"Then I'll do my very best to make sure you have one."

Margaret laughed.

"That's what I wanted to hear."

Valentina leaned forward and kissed her.

"Thank you, Margaret."

"For what, darling?"

"For asking me back."

Margaret touched her cheek.

"You're very welcome."

A Very Grateful Goodbye

It was nearly three o'clock when Valentina finally began getting dressed.

Margaret remained in bed, watching her with obvious appreciation.

The younger woman slipped into her burgundy dress and fastened her elegant heels.

"Very nice," Margaret observed.

Valentina smiled.

"Thank you, ma'am."

"You really are extraordinarily beautiful."

"You're making me blush."

Margaret laughed.

"I find that hard to believe."

Valentina finished arranging her hair.

Then she returned to the bedside.

"Margaret?"

"Yes?"

"Would it be terribly forward if I kissed you goodbye?"

Margaret smiled.

"Darling, I'd be terribly disappointed if you didn't."

Valentina kissed her.

Margaret held her close for a moment.

Then she released her.

"Now off you go. I have a few things to attend to before tonight."

"Of course."

"And don't forget."

"Midnight."

"Precisely."

Valentina smiled.

"I'll be here."

Margaret watched her walk toward the door.

"One more thing, darling."

Valentina turned.

"Yes?"

"I meant what I said. You did beautifully."

The younger woman's expression softened.

"Thank you, Margaret."

Then she was gone.

Margaret settled back against the pillows.

She felt relaxed.

Happy.

And rather pleased with herself.

Five thousand dollars was a considerable tip.

But what was money for, if not occasionally making someone else's life a little easier?

Especially someone who had just given her such an extraordinary weekend.

And tonight, she would have the pleasure of doing it all over again.

She smiled.

What a lovely girl.

Sunday Evening — Family Business

At six-thirty, Margaret's phone rang.

It was her younger brother, Daniel.

"Margaret?"

"Hello, darling."

"Are you still coming tonight?"

"Of course. Seven o'clock, wasn't it?"

"Yes."

"Good. I haven't seen you in ages."

"I know. I'm sorry."

Margaret frowned slightly.

Daniel sounded nervous.

"Everything all right?"

"Yes. Well... mostly."

"Daniel."

He sighed.

"I wanted to talk to you about a business opportunity."

Margaret smiled.

"Ah. Now I understand the sudden invitation."

"It's not like that."

"Of course not."

"Seriously, Margaret. I think it could be something worthwhile."

"Then we'll discuss it over dinner."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome, darling."

She paused.

"And I believe I'm finally going to meet your wife."

Daniel laughed nervously.

"Yes. That's right."

"About time. You've been married nearly six months, and I still haven't met the woman."

"I know. Things have been complicated."

"So you keep telling me."

Margaret smiled.

"Well, I'm looking forward to it."

She ended the call.

Daniel had always been the dreamer in the family.

Margaret had inherited their father's practical business sense.

Daniel had inherited his enthusiasm for questionable investments and grand ideas.

She loved him dearly.

But she had occasionally wondered whether he would ever learn to manage money.

At least he seemed happy in his new marriage.

That was something.

Margaret rose from the bed and headed for the bathroom.

She had a family dinner to attend.

And another appointment at midnight.

She was looking forward to both.

The Modest House

At seven-fifteen, Margaret arrived outside Daniel's home.

She wore an elegant cream-colored business suit, a silk blouse, beautiful designer heels, and her favorite diamond earrings.

Her chauffeur opened the car door.

"Shall I wait, madam?"

"No, thank you. I'll call when I'm ready."

She stepped out and looked at the house.

It had been nearly three years since she'd visited.

Daniel had moved twice during that time, and his wedding had been a small courthouse ceremony while Margaret was traveling abroad.

They had promised to get together afterward.

Somehow, they never had.

Until tonight.

Margaret climbed the steps and rang the bell.

A moment later, the door opened.

Daniel stood before her.

Forty-six, handsome in a slightly disheveled way, with thinning dark hair and the familiar smile she'd known since childhood.

"Margaret!"

"Daniel!"

They embraced.

"It's wonderful to see you," he said.

"You too, darling."

He stepped aside.

"Come in."

Margaret entered the small hallway.

The house was neat but plainly furnished.

A few framed photographs hung on the walls. There was a worn sofa in the living room and a dining table set for three.

Margaret noticed a stack of unopened envelopes on a sideboard.

Daniel quickly moved them aside.

"Would you like a drink?"

"A glass of wine would be lovely."

"Of course."

He led her into the living room.

"How have you been?" he asked.

"Very well, actually."

"Good."

"Extremely well."

Daniel smiled.

"That sounds promising."

Margaret laughed.

"Oh, darling, you'd be surprised."

He disappeared into the kitchen and returned with two glasses of wine.

They talked briefly about family matters.

Margaret asked about his health.

Daniel asked about her business.

And then, inevitably, Margaret returned to the reason for her visit.

"So. This mysterious business opportunity."

Daniel shifted uncomfortably.

"Yes."

"Tell me."

"Well, it's a little complicated."

"Most business opportunities are."

He laughed nervously.

"I suppose."

Margaret studied him.

"Daniel, are you in some kind of trouble?"

He looked startled.

"What makes you say that?"

"Because I've known you for forty-six years, darling."

Daniel looked down at his glass.

Before he could answer, footsteps sounded upstairs.

His expression brightened.

"Ah! There she is."

Margaret smiled.

"Your mysterious wife?"

"Yes."

He stood.

"Darling? Would you come down? Margaret's here!"

A woman's voice answered from upstairs.

"Coming!"

Margaret turned toward the staircase.

She heard the click of high heels.

Then a young woman appeared.

Long dark hair.

Expressive green eyes.

A beautiful face.

She wore a modest but elegant floral dress and was adjusting an earring as she descended the stairs.

Margaret's smile froze.

The young woman looked up.

And stopped.

Daniel beamed.

"Margaret, there's someone very special I'd like you to meet."

He stepped toward the staircase.

"Darling, this is my sister, Margaret Sterling."

The young woman stared.

Daniel turned back toward Margaret.

"And Margaret, this is my wife..."

He smiled proudly.

"Julia."

The room fell silent.

Margaret couldn't move.

Julia?

Valentina?

The beautiful woman from the hotel.

The woman who had spent Saturday night in her bed.

The woman to whom she'd given five thousand dollars that very morning.

The woman who had just promised to return to her hotel suite at midnight.

The woman whose husband had suggested becoming an escort to pay off dangerous debts.

Her brother's wife.

Julia's face turned white.

Her eyes widened.

Her lips parted.

"Oh, my God."

THE END

What was Daniel's mysterious business opportunity? Would Margaret still expect Julia at midnight? Could she possibly tell her brother where she'd spent the weekend—and what would happen when he discovered that his wealthy sister had become his wife's most generous customer?