1 Do you want this?

So this is it? This is the place where women are the sexual predators?

The exclusive atmosphere wrapped itself around Sofie as she entered the infamous Club Elandra. An establishment so exclusive that hundreds of women from around the world were on the waiting list. Each of them rich and influential, each able to afford anything, perhaps anyone, yet they choose to take their pleasures with the high-class companions from Club Elandra.

Sofie wasn't a club member, would never be. She was an investigative journalist, who could only dream of the level of luxury the club was famous for. But tonight, she was the guest of Mrs Gartner, one of the lucky few with access to this secretive erotic society.

There was nothing in the stylish lobby that spoke of the deep desires and dark fantasies that were fulfilled behind those tapestry walls. Nothing indicated that spending a night here would cost a fortune and was highly addictive. The only hint was the subtile and sensual fragrance floating through the lobby that whispered 'you'll come visit us again'.

"Mrs Gartner, how very wonderful to see you this evening. I'll let your companion know you are here."

The prim receptionist beamed, utterly misjudging the mood Sofie's host was in. Peering through an elaborate arrangement of lilies and lotus leaves the receptionist reached for the phone when she finally spotted Sofie and her expression froze.

"Oh you brought a guest. How … unusual. Does your companion know?"

"No he doesn't. Put the phone down. I need to first cancel my subscription."

Mrs Gartner's voice was clipped and sour. No one could blame her. She was about to lose a prized possession; the ticket to her satisfaction and an invaluable status symbol in her circles. "I am transferring my remaining visits to this … young lady."

Sofie suppressed a smile. 'Young lady' is it? Seeing one of society's most scrupulous harpies rake her brain for how to describe her was delectable. Why not 'Blackmailer'? Too embarrassing?

Sweet triumph flooded Sofie. Her plan had worked. The collected evidence of Mrs Gartner's infidelity and her more extravagant desires had become her ticket into Club Elandra. Sofie knew exactly the magnitude of her threat to go public with this information. Mr Gartner, the executive of a multinational company, would have no qualms divorcing his gold digging wife and without a prenup this would be the end to her lavish lifestyle.

Sofie had never before stooped so low. Ignoring the sickening feeling in her stomach, blackmail had proved to be exceptionally effective for getting to her next informant: Philip, Mrs Gartner's companion and the club's most sought after escort.

"Mrs Gartner, you know this is not possible. We are happy to reimburse your remaining three visits but they cannot be transferred to another person. We have a waiting list."

"Just do it, missy, will you?" Mrs Gartner tapped her fingers on the counter in frustration. She clearly was not used to losing something, let alone having to deal with problems during the process.

"Mrs Gartner, please. Even if we transferred the visits, we cannot do this on such short notice." Lowering her voice the receptionist added "You know we require certain medical information to ensure the safety of our companions."

Mrs Gartner snapped her fingers and waved for Sofie to hand over the blood tests and physical examination she had endured earlier today. For Sofie, the humiliation was a small sacrifice for finally getting access to Philip and his secrets about a certain client of his.

Sofie leaned over the counter to read the receptionist's name tag.

"Melanie," she said softly "I know this is very irregular. But Mrs Gartner is not one to say 'No' to without consequences. She can make this difficult for all of us. So what do you think we can do to resolve this?"

"Well, I suppose, it is ultimately up to Philip to decide."

Melanie took a measuring look at Mrs Gartner before picking up the phone again.

"I'm sorry Philip, there is a bit of a situation down here. Normally, I would not bother you with this but … it's Mrs Gartner."

A frightened expression whisked over Melanie's face and Sofie almost felt sorry for having dragged an innocent bystander into her battle. But bringing down a corrupt member of parliament, justified some collateral along the way. The woman she was after had blood on her hands and was on her way to becoming prime minister.

"Mrs Gartner wants to transfer the remaining three visits to a friend." The silence on the other end of the line made Melanie's hand tremble. "Philip?"

After another anxious pause she put down the phone. "Philip will come downstairs to resolve the issue." Melanie tried hard to keep it together but she was close to tears.

What kind of illuminati society is this? How can bending a small rule cause such palpable tension?

Mrs Gartner shot Sofie a dark gaze, growling under her breath "You are playing with fire here, girl".

Footsteps approached on the upper floor before Sofie could take in the full meaning of Mrs Gartner's statement. A figure stepped out of the shade at the top of the imposing granite staircase. He deliberately and slowly walked down the steps. He clearly was a man confident with commanding attention.

With every step the warm light of the foyer crept up his body, tantalizingly revealing his imposing figure. Philip oozed authority, wearing a tailored navy blue suit. His white shirt was casually unbuttoned at the top showing teasing glimpses of his muscular chest below. His classically handsome face was framed by a stylish haircut giving him a look worthy of a magazine cover.

Sofie realized that all three of them had been holding their breath, staring at the person whose skill and allure has put Club Elandra on the world map. He was the club's most prized asset. Their crown jewel. How ridiculous. He is just a man.

"Welcome to Club Elandra." he said smiling ever so slightly.

The deep vibrations in his voice sent little ripples of delight across Sofie's body. And she caught herself wondering what running her hands across his broad shoulders would feel like.

"Mrs Gartner, I hear you have a surprise request for me tonight."

Whatever effect he had on Sofie was nothing compared to what Mrs Gartner must be feeling; despite -- or maybe because of -- having sampled his wears many times before. Gone was the deceitful harpy and replaced by a doting lamb.

In total bewilderment Sofie studied the interaction between Mrs Gartner and Philip. She was besotted with him and following her heart she would have risked the consequences of Sofie's blackmail; given up her position, her wealth, just to stay with this man. Who is worth that much?

But even blinded by love she knew that their relationship was a transaction, predictable and immutable. She knew fully well that without money or influence she would not be able to afford Philip's company.

"Philip," Mrs Gartner exhaled, her voice hitching ever so slightly, "I've decided to devote more time to charity. I'll be cancelling my club membership." She paused, waiting for an objection from him, which both knew would never come. Taking a deep breath she continued "I want to transfer by remaining three visits to … her." A tortured expression played around her mouth as she spat out the last word.

"I see. How very ... rare." he said.

His chocolate brown eyes fixed on Sofie; undeterred by her squirming under his attention. He let his gaze slowly slide over her face, and down her body. It left a hot trail of stirred flesh in its wake.

"Is this what you want?" he asked, addressing Sofie for the first time.

"Yes."

Sofie's voice was firm as she held his gaze. There were flecks of green in his dark eyes and she felt drawn into the black pool of floating emeralds.

"Very well then. I am willing to make an exception."

An enigmatic smile flitted across his face.

Sofie could not tell why this matter-of-fact statement felt so flattering. But she was painfully aware that she needed to take a firm reign on her emotions with this man. She straightened herself. Very well, two can play this game.

"Thank you Mrs Gartner. I'll leave you with Melanie for the cessation procedure." He briefly nodded politely at Mrs Gartner before glancing at Melanie. She bobbed her head in reply to his silent question. It was a well rehearsed ritual, like stamping a passport for her to be allowed entry into the land of senses.

"Shall we?" Philip took Sofie's arm to guide her up the stairs.