Her question has the effect of a bolt of lightning connecting between my legs. Amanda looks at me as if she just asked me how I feel about the endless rain we’ve been having this summer.
“W-why?” I stammer, sufficiently taken aback. The cool I always prided myself on keeping in her presence quickly slips away. I may even feel a blush creeping up my cheeks. “I mean, erm, why do you want to know?”
“It’s not a trick question, Jo. I was single when I was your age, but I had ulterior motives. I worked late to impress the higher-ups, always making sure I exceeded my monthly targets by at least fifty percent.” She brings her fingers to her neck, as if wanting to fiddle with a necklace that’s not there. “I’m just curious about your motivation and ambition.” Her smile shifts from neutral to flirt
