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We nod simultaneously, following her when she steps inside the swarming staff quarters.
“Holyshit!”
I don’t have time to check who spoke, intent on keeping up with a fast-marching Lucia. We dip and weave our way across the floor, eventually making it to the opposite side and out intoRapture.
Women and men wearing next to nothing perform suggestive dances on several raised daises dotted throughout the space, and I glance back at my friends, finding Levi nodding in appreciation.
“Now,thisis what I’m talking about.”
Elodie shoves past him, threading her arm through mine with a wry smile. “We’re not in South Brook anymore, Toto.”
Lucia leads us to a private area, lit up in shades of blues and greens and surrounded by sheer drapes. There are bottles of Dom Perignon on ice alongside waiting champagne flutes, and Elodie wastes zero time filling them all.
“He’s usually away until late when he…” Lucia trails off almost uncomfortably, and again, anxiety stirs in my stomach at the thought of not knowing where he is. Of not seeing him all day.
I frown then, frustrated that I care so much, and draw Lucia against me for a quick hug.
“Thank you for giving me this night.” I pull back and spear her with grateful eyes. “You have no idea how much I need to blow off some steam.”
She nods in understanding. “Don’t stay down here past 1 a.m. You’ll run the risk of being found if you do.”
And with that warning, she’s gone.
Elodie dances up alongside me, passing me a flute filled to the brim. “If we’ve only got three hours, then we better get this party started!”
* * *
VAUGHN
My day did not go according to plan. At all.
And my evening is somehow managing to be even worse.
* * *
My feet eat the sidewalk, and I almost miss the mugging, even as it happens right in front of me. The elderly woman sways on her feet as the assailant races off, clearly with her belongings.
I reach for her before she can hit to ground, laying her gently on the concrete as several other bystanders step forward.
“Someone call 911.”
And without a backward glance, I peel off in pursuit, spotting the offender ducking and weaving through the evening crowds.
He’s fast, but I know I’m faster, and I push my body to the limits, catching up with him less than a block later.
I hurl myself at his back as he’s rounding a corner, knocking us both to the ground, but before he can gather his wits, I’ve knocked him out with a sharp blow to the jaw.
* * *
Once I’ve handed him over to authorities and ensured the woman is okay and in receipt of the proper medical treatment, I’m too late for my session downtown.
So, I shoot a quick text to Barbara, the organizer.
ME
I can’t make it tonight. I’ll be there for the next, okay?
Wearily, I turn back for home, pulling my black citrusy sunshine-scented hoodie higher over my head before digging my hands deep into my jogger pants pocket.
