Heartbeat

Chapter 30- Win

Win left the Res nervous with anticipation. She and Mouse had discussed the plan several times. Sol had helped her with tips on how to stay in control of the situation, but Win didn't find it as helpful. However, despite this terrifying decision, she was doing something she was good at and had the skills. She cursed the rain and put her dainty hood over her head. She had worn the flimsiest clothes she could without seeming too obvious but chose a hooded jacket over the top so she wouldn't gain too much-unwanted attention on the streets.

A few men tried to get her attention as she walked, but she ignored them. She had to be careful not to walk too quickly; despite the rain cooling the air, it was still warm, and she couldn't risk sweating and ruining her makeup. Her cheek was still swollen, and she would have cursed Fara and Mouse, but she knew it was necessary. Anything less than real would be suspicious.

Besides the Study Hall, Alevier's favourite place to go with his friends was a fancier bar that had been rumoured to be owned by Kaz Brekker.. In addition to offering some gambling options, it was mainly focused on being a more upscale establishment than places in the Barrel. Win had only been a few times when she knew Alevier would pay. She was sure he would be there tonight if he was meeting friends.

It was only a few blocks from the Bank; Win considered dropping in to see Rudy for luck and encouragement. But she knew she had to stay focused, and Rudy would try to give her an out. Tell her she didn't have to do this; she could do so much more if she wanted to, and she didn't need to hear that. Mouse had given her a choice to do a real job that had worth and value. Alevier could no longer be depended on. Regardless of his nice words, she knew he was more similar to Zelda than to any of the Widows she felt closest to.

She arrived at the Flutes Wind bar, which was known to have some live music after a particular hour. The Kaelish tourists loved it for the band's ability to play Kaelish reels, and merchant sons loved it because every bartender was as gorgeous as the next.

Dirtyhands knows how to get deep pockets spilling. Win thought, shuddering at the idea. She had heard enough about Kaz Brekker to see that she would never want to be in a room with him, alone or otherwise.

The bouncer looked her up and down before allowing her in. He recognized her and grabbed her elbow.

"You know, Win, we're always looking for new bartenders if you're interested."

"How's the pay?" Win asked, batting her eyelashes dramatically. Felt the twinge of pain in her cheek and realized the effect of flirting was not as effective with a bruise.

"Well, one of the perks is that you get full access to me. And I would never damage your pretty face like that."

"Well, I think I'd rather take the pay cut," Win said, smirking and moving past him before he could push the joke further. She scanned the large open room of the newly renovated, painted, and furnished bar. Alevier was seated around a table in the back corner, with three friends. He saw Win and happily gestured her over.

Win took a large breath, steadying her courage and walked over to him. Her posture changed immediately to one that was more demure and timid than usual. A chair was offered to her beside Alevier, and she took it tentatively. Making a point to look around often.

"Why hello, beautiful. I'm so glad you joined us." Alevier said, but his tone changed as he noted her demeanour. "What's the matter?" He asked, trying to look her in the eye.

Win kept her head down and muttered.

"Nothing." A waitress came, and Alevier ordered Win a glass of white wine. Win allowed her head to move up briefly to say thank you, turning her head slightly toward him.