The Interview
I saw the advert in the local shop, "Housekeeper required, must be diligent and flexible". Well, I'm both those I thought, it's only a bit of hoovering and cooking, no problems, easy money, which I well needed. As a guy in his 40's just doing temp jobs I wanted something more secure. I noted the number and went home to apply. I phoned the number that evening, it was answered by a older sounding guy, I guessed late 40's. He said that he'd had a couple of applicants, was still deciding and was willing to see me. We arranged for 10.30 the next morning, he told me to shower well beforehand as he couldn't abide uncleanliness - odd I thought but not a problem.
I didn't overdo the dressing up, only a housekeeper job I thought, so set off in jeans and white shirt. When I arrived at the address I was impressed; a nice detached house with large gardens, all looked very smart. I rung the bell and waited. The door was answered by a big, tall guy, probably nearer late 50's, largish build and very smart. He looked me up and down and said I could have smartened up for the interview, but nevermind, I'd do. Slightly taken aback I was immediately quiet and entered the house as told. The guy spoke very well, he introduced himself as Paul, though he said he expected his housekeeper to call him Sir. Odd in today's world I thought, but no problem, I'd hardly see him probably anyway. I was fairly subdued in the interview, Paul had a very authoritative air and seemed to automatically command respect from me.
The general duties were explained, cleaning, cooking, shopping and other tasks as they came up. It turned out Paul was a retired surgeon who was used to utter obedience from his staff, and he did admit he still enjoyed that trait. He asked if that was a problem to me; well I thought I could hardly say no so meekly agreed and continued in my subdued but keen manner. Paul asked if I was married etc, I explained I was divorced as my wife had left me for another man. This did seem to bring a wicked smile to his lips as he asked if I failed to satisfy her - I stammered and explained she just wanted a change, not mentioning her true reason of saying her new guy could have shagged for England. Paul seemed to intuitively know the reason as he did continue to question whether I had a girlfriend now, explaining he needed to know my flexibility for out of hours work. I said I had no ties and, naturally accepting his authority, explained I would be available for him as he required. Again, stammering over my words I seemed to be saying he could have me when ever he wanted, which seemed to encourage him, bringing that wicked smile back.