The sharp morning light filtered through the windows of Club Scarlet Heart, casting long shadows on the floor as Eloise entered. She moved quickly, a sense of urgency in her every step, though the weight of her thoughts seemed to slow her down. She dropped her bag in her locker and headed straight for Rachael’s office. Her heart was pounding, but she tried to ignore the flutter of anxiety building in her chest. Just get this over with, Eloise. You’ve got this.
She knocked gently on the door, her hand a little unsteady.
“Rachael, I need you to hold my money again,” Eloise said, placing a thick stack of bills on the desk in front of her.
Rachael looked at the money for a long moment, her eyes widening. "Who gave this to you?"
Oh, here it comes, Eloise thought, feeling the familiar twinge
