Page 97 of Wrapped in Perfection

As soon as Dmitri returns, he needs to start teaching me Russian.

I turn to the window, trying not to read into anything, but Maksim sounds angry on the call. When he hangs up, his face is red.

"Everything okay?" I ask.

"Yes, nothing you need to worry about. Should we talk about Sacha before we get to lunch?"

"Please."

"He's very cheap until you prove yourself. You must not give him any ideas until you are under contract with him. Once you do one job for him and earn his trust, he will be loyal and not attempt to undercut you. Until then, if I tell you to stop talking, please listen."

"You're staying for the meeting?"

"Yes, of course."

"I'm sure I can handle it."

"No offense, but I know him well. I will not let him pull any of his tricks on you."

"Okay. Thank you."

"Of course. You must be careful in this city. Now, did you bring your contract as I told you to?"

"Yes, it's in my bag."

"Good. Once the contract is on the table, he will try to lower your fee. Do not fall for his game. Stick to your price. He will threaten to walk away. Let him. If he does, he will call later today and attempt to lowball you again. You do not allow him to change anything on your contract. He will then call you tomorrow and tell you he will sign."

"Wow. How do you know all this?"

"I have known Sacha since we were in school. He is set in his ways and very predictable."

I tap my hand on my thigh, slightly nervous.

Maksim grabs it. "You cannot fidget. It shows weakness. Be confident at all times."

I blow out a big breath.Confident. Okay. I can do this.

"If I clear my throat, you excuse yourself and go to the restroom."

"Why?"

"Do not worry about why. Just do it."

"How long do I stay in the bathroom?"

Maksim furrows his eyebrows. "Normal time."

I tilt my head.

"What?" he asks.

"What does 'normal time' mean?" I put my fingers in quotes.

"You know. However long it takes you women do what you do in the ladies' room."

"Do I put on fresh lipstick?"

"Whatever you want. Just go to the restroom."

---