Cultured, page 11
She remembered her own school years. Tight money, even tighter hours with classes, studying, and partying, something she had excelled at. She wished someone had offered her the proposition she had for the Hutton sisters. Would she have taken them up on it? Probably, but maybe not. Back then, she had been more naive and cautious and didn’t really understand how the world worked. Hadn’t yet grasped the power of money and sex. She now had a firm grasp of those tools.
Rhea exited the campus and rolled through downtown Wheelerville, a town she’d never visited, to get the lay of the land. Not much to it but it seemed pleasant enough. A few restaurants, Italian, Japanese, and Cajun that she saw, a couple of bars, and clusters of industrial buildings. Typical of towns this size, little traffic impeded her path. Wheelerville served the college crowd’s basic needs, but she suspected that for fun and hookups they ventured east into Mobile where restaurants and watering holes were plentiful.
Back at the apartment building, she pressed the doorbell button next to the dark green front door. Almost immediately it swung open revealing a tall young woman with fashionably short cropped dark hair and bright green eyes.
“Rhea Wilson?” the girl said.
“I am.”
“I’m Shane.”
They shook hands and then Shane stepped back, welcoming Rhea inside. A carbon copy of Shane rose from the living room sofa.
“This is my sister, Sara,” Shane said.
“Nice to meet you.” Sara nodded
“I’ve been looking forward to meeting you both,” Rhea said.
Shane waved Rhea to the chair opposite the sofa. She sat.
“Can I get you anything?” Shane asked. “Water, soft drink?”
Rhea shook her head. “I’m good.”
As the sisters settled on the sofa, Rhea studied them. She had seen photos and knew they were beautiful but they were more impressive in person. They carried themselves well, free of silly giggles or overt nervousness, and with an air of confidence and assuredness. Rhea prided herself in being able to read people, to understand body language, facial expressions, and word choice. Shane and Sara seemed curious, laced with a hint of caution. Sara clasped her hands in her lap, Shane entwined her legs in an obviously protective posture.
Rhea considered these minor tells of their apprehension completely understandable. She had given them just enough information to pique their interest and get her in the door. She had offered only that she had a job for them. One that wouldn’t interfere with their school and where they could make good money. Very good money was how she had put it. If you’re going to set a hook, do so deeply. She had spoken only with Shane, who had asked what the job entailed, but Rhea deflected the question by saying it included hostessing for parties and gatherings for their rich clients. The details needed her face-to-face sales pitch. Another area in which she excelled.
Her first impression was that these two would do well at TLM. They certainly fit the desired profile. Their neat, clean, well-appointed apartment underscored that assessment. Not typical for college kids, it was clutter free and matched their demeanor and attire. Each wore tailored jeans, Shane an untucked black shirt, sleeves rolled to her elbows, Sara a spaghetti-strapped camisole, peach.
Rhea settled in the chair, letting them sense that this was a relaxed chat. No hard sell, no deception, no pressure. Shane’s shoulders relaxed, even if Sara remained on alert.
“How’s school going?” Rhea asked.
“Fine,” Sara said. “It’s school. Classes and studying.”
“And hopefully a little fun?” Rhea said.
Shane laughed. “We manage.”
“Good. These are the best years of your life. Whether you realize that or not, they are. You will forever look back on these years as times of learning, of adventure, of exploration.” She gave a half shrug. “I know I do.”
“We’re curious about what you told me,” Shane said. “You said it was a job of some sorts.”
“Which we don’t really understand,” Sara added.
“That’s why I’m here,” Rhea said. “To explain everything. Let me start by saying thanks for seeing me.” When neither of the sisters responded, she continued. “I’ll begin by explaining who we are and what TLM is all about. It’s a program for self-improvement and teaching people how to navigate financial success.” Rhea smiled. “Doesn’t that sound highfalutin?”
The girls returned the smile in unison.
“Jonathon Lindemann is the founder and the creator of TLM, The Lindemann Method. I’m his executive VP. We work to help people improve their well-being. Happiness, success, and life stability are our goals. We also help them become financially secure. Or in many cases more so. Most of our members already have some degree of success. Business types, professionals, entrepreneurs, and the like. Most of them work too hard for their money and sacrifice their family, friends, and personal wellness chasing the gold ring, which is the road to total burnout and ultimately loss of what they worked for.”
“Sounds like college,” Shane said.
“That’s a good analogy. I bet you know people who work too hard at it. Not because they aren’t smart enough but because they aren’t well organized or are not confident enough in their own abilities. They spend four hours on something they could do in half the time. The ones that cram for tests the night before rather than doing it step-by-step.”
Sara glanced at Shane. “We have a few friends like that.”
“But I suspect you two aren’t that way.”
“We do okay,” Shane said.
“I know,” Rhea said. “I do my research. Your GPAs are excellent.”
“You researched us?” Shane asked.
“I did. As I should. What kind of recruiter would I be if I didn’t analyze potential candidates? And my analysis says you two would be perfect for the position I’m offering.”
“Which is?” Sara asked. “I mean, we aren’t rich, or successful, or any of those things you mentioned.”
“That presents no problems,” Rhea said. “We aren’t talking about you as investors but rather as employees.”
Shane leaned back and crossed her legs. “We’re in school. We don’t have time for a job.”
“Does fifty to a hundred thousand a year interest you?”
“What?” A look of suspicion crossed Shane’s face. “For doing what?”
“Serving as hostesses, entertaining clients, and the like.”
Now concern settled on Sara’s face. “What exactly does ‘entertaining’ mean?”
“We schmooze and pamper our clients, and potential clients. Mostly at our farm in Magnolia Springs, sometimes elsewhere. You would be the face of TLM at these gatherings.”
“Eye candy?” Shane asked.
“To some extent that’s true, but the job is much more. We do employ young women who are physically attractive, but they must also be smart, well spoken, educated, and classy.”
Sara couldn’t suppress a quick laugh. “You think we’re classy?”
“I do. Since you both made an A in the public speaking class you took, I know you’re good communicators and would represent TLM well.”
The two girls looked at her but said nothing.
“Our events tend to be on the weekends so they wouldn’t interfere with your classes. You might want to travel with some of our clients or to one of our retreats. Mostly these are down in the Tampa area, so not too far, but they are really everywhere. Even in Europe and Asia. Such travel isn’t a requirement, but most of our girls really like that. Top drawer, all expenses paid, always fun trips.”
“You’d pay us for that?” Sara asked, her skepticism apparent.
“Handsomely. We’re offering each of you two thousand a month plus extra for your weekends at the farm, special events, and travel. In addition, we will help you invest that money and create your own portfolio.”
“That’s a lot of money,” Shane said.
“We think you’re worth it.”
“Are you sure it wouldn’t interfere with school?” Sara asked.
“I’m sure. You’ll only be over at the farm on the weekends you’re working and maybe you’ll take a week off here and there for travel, which again is completely optional. That said, we have a couple of girls your age who we helped facilitate their classes virtually. They live at the farm full-time. Room and board is also covered.”
“What’s this farm you’re talking about?”
Good. The hook was digging deeper.
“It’s wonderful. Not really a farm, actually far from it, it’s more like a high-end resort than anything else. We call it Lindemann Farms and it’s on two hundred beautiful acres in Magnolia Springs. We have a lodge, a world-class restaurant, and elegant accommodations, not only for the members but for the staff as well. You’ll have your own private quarters while you’re at the farm.”
Sara’s skepticism bled over to Shane. “What’s the catch?”
One minute after meeting the pair, she knew Shane would be the one to convince. Whatever she decided would drag Sara along in her wake. Sara might be more skeptical, but Shane was the dominant one.
Rhea shook her head. “No catch. We need hostesses who are attractive and smart and can present a professional and cultured face. Girls like you.”
“I’m not sure we’d be considered cultured,” Sara said.
“Of course you are. You’re bright and charming and present yourselves well.” Rhea leaned forward. “Don’t get me wrong, it’s a real job. You’d be required to learn about our members and clients so you can be engaging, interesting, and carry on intelligent conversations. Our members are successful, well educated, and cultured. Your main job would be to make them feel at home and comfortable.”
“I see,” Shane said.
“And I’m sure you could use the money and the connections.”
“What connections?”
That’s it. Swallow the bait.
“Like I told you, our clients are wealthy and successful. Several of our girls have developed relationships along the way. Even marriages.”
Shane’s chin rose slightly. “And mistresses?”
Rhea nodded. “I won’t deny that some of the girls have followed that path. It’s their choice. I can tell you that each and every one that went that route was happy. Traveling the country, the world, with a guy worth eight or nine figures. Doing and seeing things they never imagined. Two now live on yachts along the French Riviera, another in Gstaad, Switzerland, one in Singapore, one in New York City, two others in L.A. All over really. Whether those relationships evolve into something more permanent or not is up to the fates, I guess.”
“Is that what we’re expected to do?” Shane asked. “Entertain, and maybe have sex, with these guys?”
“That’s entirely up to you. We have no restrictions on that, but it’s not really required. Plus, not all of our clients are men.”
“Sounds sketchy,” Shane said.
“In what way?” Rhea asked.
“You offer us insane pay for smiling, looking pretty, and making small talk. You tell us that others that have done the same are now concubines.”
“Concubines,” Rhea said. “I like that word. But it doesn’t fit here. You will be in control. You will decide what you do or don’t do. All we ask is that you represent TLM in a positive light.”
Shane raised an eyebrow. “But you wouldn’t mind if we slept with some of your clients?”
“Again, that’s completely up to you. But is that really much different than playing the sugar baby game?”
The trump card.
Both girls reacted as if joined at the hip. Head up, shoulders back, eyes wide.
“Yes,” Rhea said. “I know about it. Again, part of my research.” Shane started to speak but Rhea raised a hand. “I looked into the guys each of you is seeing. They’re married, of course, which is typical, but they seem to be nice and stable. That reflects well on your personal choices.”
Shane sagged, glanced at her sister. “Like taking money for sex?”
“If you want to look at it that way. I prefer to see it as a business arrangement. One that is mutually beneficial. Your choices in partners show me that you make sound decisions. That’s a gift and a big plus as far as we’re concerned.”
The sisters gave her blank stares, as if not sure what to say.
“Look,” Rhea continued, “I did the same thing back when I was in school.” A lie but one she had told many times to other girls. “My belief is that if I wanted to trade companionship for money, it should be a lot of money laced with a lot of perks. Travel, clothing, jewelry, even stock certificates. You’d be amazed what some rich guys will do to have an attractive young lady on their arm.”
“So sex is involved?” Sara asked.
“Only if you want. If not, no problem.” Rhea sighed. “The truth is that we need hostesses and in exchange we’re offering you money, self-help, career and financial advice, as well as the opportunity to meet many successful people. Networking at its best. What type of relationships you establish are completely up to you.”
Sara looked at Shane. “What do you think?”
Shane shrugged. “I’m not sure what to think. Part of me says it’s an amazing opportunity while the other part tells me it’s too good to be true and to pump the brakes. I need to digest all of this.”
“Good idea,” Rhea said. “We only want you if you’re committed to the program.”
“Can we call you in a few days?” Shane asked. “After we’ve had time to discuss it?”
“I have a better idea. We’re having a gathering at The Farm this Saturday. Be our guests. We’ll provide you rooms in our lodge, and food and drink and fun. You can meet some of our clients, get a feel for how we do things. No strings attached. We’ll even pay each of you five hundred just for attending.”
The girls exchanged a long glance.
“That might be fun,” Shane said.
The hook had been set and the reel was spinning.
CHAPTER 21
OUR THIRD-FLOOR SUITE was magnificent, which wasn’t a surprise given the luxurious nature of Lindemann Farms. The exterior might be upscale ranch-style but the rooms screamed high-end resort. The corner suite Lorie directed us to had a living area, a separate bedroom with a king bed, and a massive bathroom, which I noticed had a marble vanity with two sinks, a four-shower-headed glass-enclosed stall, and plush towels. I saw fun in my future.
“Wow,” Nicole said. “This is so nice.”
“One of our best rooms,” Lorie said. She walked to the living room window and waved a hand. “You have a great view of the property.”
Panoramic would be a better word. The window looked over the entry area and out toward the fields and trees of the farm. I noticed the window along the adjacent wall faced the office building. Jonathon Lindemann stood beneath a maple tree in the small parking lot that stretched between the lodge and the office building, chatting with a tall, well-dressed man. Next to them rested a black Bentley, driver’s door open, the man’s hand resting on the doorframe. They seemed to be sharing something humorous. They shook hands, the man climbed in the car, backed out, and drove away. Jonathon watched him leave, then reached inside his own white Bentley, lifted out a briefcase, and walked toward the office entry.
Lorie drew my attention back to her, saying, “You guys get settled and then if you want, I’ll meet you downstairs for lunch.”
“I’m starving,” Nicole said.
No news there.
“You’re in the right place. Chef Michael makes the most incredible food.” Lorie patted her flat belly. “I’m amazed I haven’t gained a ton since I’ve been here. Fortunately, we have several hiking and jogging trails on the property so I can run off the calories.”
Lorie left us to unpack, which took all of three minutes. We each had only a shoulder bag.
I lay down on the bed. “Comfy.” I patted the bed next to me. “Come see.”
“Get up, Bucko. We can check out the bed later, but right now I need food. Besides, we aren’t on vacation. We’re working.”
“Doesn’t mean we can’t have fun.”
“Oh, we will. Just not right now.”
“Is that a promise?” I asked.
“A threat.”
Okay, now we’re talking.
We had seen the dining room during our last visit. It had been empty then, but now several tables were taken. I noticed Rhea Wilson sitting with a woman at a four-top near the massive stone fireplace. No fire this time of year. She nodded to us, raised a finger as if to say give me a minute, and then continued her conversation. Lorie seated us at a table near the windows. Robin appeared.
“Hello,” Robin said. “Great to see you again.” She sat.
A waitress appeared. Lorie introduced us to Beth, a cute brunette with a warm smile.
“Welcome,” Beth said. “You’re new here?”
“We are,” I said.
“I suggest going lite for lunch,” Beth said. “The food for the party tonight is over the top.”
“Isn’t it always,” Lorie said.
“Hard to argue with that,” Beth agreed. She took our orders, and following her advice we settled on salads and sweet tea all the way around.
Robin asked, “All settled in?”
“We are and the room is amazing,” Nicole said.
“It’s one of our best,” Robin said.
“You’re VIPs,” Lorie added. “Jonathon and Rhea want you to enjoy your stay with us.”
Of course they did. Plus, they wanted in our pockets. I wondered what they’d think if they knew our real reason for being here. We’d probably get tossed off the VIP list and downgraded to a basement dungeon. Or be escorted to the entry gate and kicked in the butt.
“I’m sure we will,” Nicole said.
“I’ve been here a year and I still can’t believe how cool everything is,” Robin said. “Even our room.”
“We’re roommates,” Lorie said.
“Where is your room?” I asked. “Here in the lodge?”
