than an hour and a half, he had become satisfactory. He had even begun to enjoy the challenge, "and frankly," he admitted to himself, "the clothes did look and feel good." The dread of what faced him was begin- ning to melt away, and he actually began to anticipate the thrill of ventur- ing forth in masquerade. He began to get confidence that he could carry the trickery through.
While she packed all of her things, he paced about the room in the lovely shoes. They had become comfortable. "Want to use the bathroom before we leave?” she asked.
"No... Janice" he answered. "I don't have to. I guess I'm ready to try to escape now. At least I'm as ready as I'll ever be."
"Don't worry Hon. You look as much like a girl as any one I have ever seen. We'll make it. Just remember what I told you, and to move as I have instructed."
With this she pointed at the bag he was to carry to the desk while she checked out. She had the overnight case. The bellboy was summoned, and he carried out the large suitcase and things which were on hangers.
He followed the two young ladies down the hall and into the elevator, being so very considerate of their beauty. The thugs who had so violently handled him the night before only eyed him now in admiration of his feminine figure. He felt slightly uncomfortable under their stares, as both Pete and Shorty were giving him and Janice the eye.
Her car was brought to the entrance and soon both of them were breath- ing easier. When neither of the gangsters moved outside, and it was clear that they had escaped, both gave audible sighs. Jan looked at him then and smiled: "Rita darling. . . I know you are famished. Let's have breakfast somewhere, okay?"
When he looked at her rather dumbfoundedly, she said: "Well I can't call you Russ, when you're dressed so stunningly can I?”
At this he relaxed and smiled. “I guess not. Rita sounds all right. Hope I can remember it until I get my men's clothes back on."
"You had better," she cautioned. "So far so good. Don't spoil it now."
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