Chapter 124
Stuart gripped Morwenna’s arm and marched her into the neon–lit bar, his tone icy as he said, “So you want to get a job around here, huh? Let’s see how everyone else works.”
Morwenna stumbled to keep up with him. Her eyes widened as they adjusted to the chaotic brightness and the thumping music. She felt out of place as a delicate white rose dropped amidst a riot of colors.
As her gaze swept across the room, she saw a waitress carrying a tray of drinks being casually groped by a patron, offering no resistance. Dancers moved energetically on the floor with bodies pressed close in wild abandon. On stage, a scantily clad girl danced provocatively under the spotlight, adding to Morwenna’s discomfort.
She had never been to a bar. A simple girl from the countryside like her had never imagined the urban nightlife could be so overwhelming. The scene shattered her preconceptions.
But Stuart had more in mind than showing her the main floor. He led her toward a private booth area, casually kicking open a door. Inside, men and women were drinking, with waitresses in uniform serving them. As Stuart barged in, the room fell silent, the festive atmosphere dissipating instantly.
One of the patrons tried to protest but was quickly silenced by a companion who recognized Stuart. In a nervous tone, he asked, “Mr. Hetfield, is there something you need?”
Stuart was well–known in the Rosefrost Hollow social circle, a figure feared and respected for his ruthless demeanor. At the mention of his name, the room’s lively chatter ceased.
Stuart’s voice was casual as he replied, “Carry on with your fun. I’m here to show someone the ropes.*
The patrons spotted Morwenna with Stuart and started buzzing about her stunning looks, jumping to the conclusion that Stuart was there to ‘train‘ her. They readily played along, eager to stay on his good side.
The atmosphere quickly turned raucous again. “Drink up, everyone!” cheered one of the patrons.
Struggling, the waitress protested, “Jesse, I can’t drink anymore.”
“Don’t be a buzzkill, Jesse replied, waving off her concerns. “I’m covering whatever you drink tonight. Pick anything you want, no matter
the cost.”
After some hesitation, the waitress nodded vigorously and downed her drink before ordering several expensive bottles. Drink followed
drink.
Eventually, she could barely stand, supported by two men who continued to pour drinks into her glass.
Morwenna’s face turned paler with each passing moment.
After a while, with the waitress in tow, Jesse headed toward a back room. The others in the booth acted as if this was the norm.
Realizing what was about to happen, Morwenna tried to intervene, but Stuart held her back, wrapping an arm around her in a gesture that looked protective to others.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Stuart whispered harshly. “Do you think she didn’t know what she was getting into when she started drinking? Of course, she knew it. About the drinks she ordered tonight? They’re worth thousands.”
Morwenna stared at him in disbelief.
Stuart’s voice was cold, yet there was a hint of cruelty as he added, “She’s eaming her keep.”
Morwenna shuddered.
“No, she murmured, “I won’t earn money like that. Ner how broke I am.”
She had promised Melvin she would live a decent life.
Tears welled in her eyes as she clutched Stuart’s shirt, her voice trembling, “Stuart, I want to go home.”