"You didn't say an exact time," Claire says as Mr. Gabriel Tan helps her up. "So technically I'm not late."
Gabriel Tan shakes his head. He looks at her weirdly, as though he's seeing her for the first time. "That black dress looks good on you. That Balenciaga hag did something right, this time."
"Oh, thank you," Claire mutters, suddenly feeling self-conscious. It is only now that she realizes what a sexy outfit this is, yet regal at the same time. The dress shows some skin, but only enough to excite the imagination. Claire feels as though she's royalty from a far-away kingdom who has come to visit.
When she's finally able to fully stand up, Mr. Tan offers his hand. She looks at it for a moment, uncertain of what to expect.
"Come on," Mr. Tan says. "I won't bite."