Free A Promise Between Friends by Carol Rivers

curious choice then, for a smart young woman like you. If animals are not your thing,’ Anna said with a frown, ‘then why are you working there?’
    Ruby hesitated. ‘It was just something different to try. And Larry’s a very good boss. He lets me and Debbie run the place just as long as we make enough money for him and Stuart to
go on all their holidays.’
    ‘I see. So, do you have any long-term goals?’ Anna enquired after a short pause. ‘For instance, could you be tempted into a new career?’
    ‘Well, I might,’ Ruby replied, a little flustered at the unexpected question. ‘I’m saving up for my own place, you see. The bedsit me and my friend Kath live in is very
small. One day I want a nice flat, with a bathroom.’
    Anna smiled, sitting quietly for a few moments. ‘Well, I may be able to help you there.’ Her green eyes met Ruby’s with confidence. ‘You see, this is a modelling agency.
My girls are trained for such stores as Harrods and Debenhams. It’s not unusual for an international costumier to request our services.’ Anna paused, tilting her head as Ruby’s
eyes grew wider. ‘Sometimes the girls are asked to escort our clients. Wealthy businessmen visit the capital, and attend many important functions. They like to be seen with stylish women who
wear elegant gowns. And we like our models to be seen with them. These days, the newspapers can make or break a reputation. So if we are linked to a famous name, everyone wants to hire a model from
the Charnwood-Smythe Agency.’
    Ruby nodded, trying not to look as ignorant as she felt.
    ‘Our recruiting programme is very strict,’ Anna continued. ‘I only employ girls I can trust, and demand absolute discretion. As do our clients of course.’ She paused.
‘In fact, I’m interviewing at this very moment.’ As she bent forward to put out her cigarette, she slid her beautiful green eyes towards Ruby. ‘So, my dear, does the idea
appeal to you?’
    Ruby gulped in a breath. ‘How much would it cost to be a model?’
    ‘I’m not suggesting you pay me,’ Anna laughed in surprise. ‘The training is automatic if you sign with the agency. How do you feel about that?’
    ‘But, why me?’ Ruby asked, puzzled.
    ‘When I first saw you at the Manor, I knew you were very special,’ Anna explained. ‘Your taste and grooming impressed me. Then, as we talked, I realized you had an open and
charming personality, perfect for our agency. However . . .’ Anna paused, raising her perfectly curved eyebrows. ‘It would have been very remiss of me to talk business and interrupt
your evening. Especially as you told me it was a very special night for you and your friends. That’s why I gave you my address and hoped to see you again.’
    Ruby didn’t know whether to be flattered or disappointed. What had she imagined that Anna wanted with her? Why would a woman such as Anna seek her friendship? But even as she thought this,
Ruby was overwhelmed by the thought of Anna’s offer.
    ‘Do forgive me, Ruby,’ Anna said with a soft pout.
    ‘There’s nothing to forgive,’ Ruby replied quietly. ‘It’s just that I’m a bit surprised.’
    ‘If your answer is no, we shall still be friends. And look forward to another evening together at the Manor.’
    ‘But even if I accepted your offer, I’d have to give Larry a month’s notice.’ Ruby hesitated. ‘And travelling here each day would be a problem. I had to change
buses twice and walk from the Edgware Road. Also, I haven’t really got any good clothes.’
    Anna began to laugh, waving her hand again as if none of these concerns mattered. ‘Ruby, these are very small issues. It makes no difference to me when you start, just as long as I have
your assurance you are seriously interested. Otherwise I would hire someone else. As for taking buses – there will be none of that. You’ll stay here at the house until we find you your
new accommodation. And you will be pleased to hear it’s the