"I need you," the voice says. "Right now."
It takes a moment for Claire to respond. There's something surreal about the voice of someone you thought you're done with for today. "Mr. Tan? Is it really you?"
"Don't be silly. Who else could be calling you at this hour except your boss with an urgent professional matter?" There's not a hint of irony in Mr. Tan's voice. "Of course, it is me."
"I'm sorry," Claire still could regain her bearings. "But is it way after my office hours?"
"Yes, I know, but I need you right now. And as my personal assistant, you should attend to my personal needs."
"Excuse me? Don't I have regular work hours, too?"
A pause. Then the voice, so confident and demanding, mutters, "Attend to this tonight, and this adds a whole month's salary to what you stand to gain at the end of our deal."
"What?"
"I said, this adds another month's salary."
"For just tonight's work?"
"Yes. Or should I say it again a third time?" There's a hint of cold irritation.
