Chapter 21. One-Night Stand

"May I come in?" she asked, nervousness evident in her voice.  

"You already came in, Ms. Sheharzaad," he said with a smile, "What brings you here?" he asked and pointed towards the chair for her to sit.  

A ghost of a smile was apparent on his lips.  

Sheharzaad sat on the seat just in front of his table and fiddled with her fingers out of nervousness.  

"Speak," he commanded.  

She looked up and then down towards the table. She was feeling utterly anxious.  

"I don't know how you will take it," she started.  

"Don't beat about the bush," his tone was clipped.  

She looked up at him and gathered the courage. After the last meeting she had with him, she was afraid of him. Often at night, his words that he had whispered near her ears would play in her mind like a tape, making her sleepless.  

"Sir, I am in dire need of a loan. It's very impor