Miss Angelina [2024 Rewrite]

[8] Panacea

Jonathan shot me a genuine smile when I finally left the room; there was a curiosity in his eyes that his lips knew better than to ask. I would have returned it if I hadn't been so unsettled by my earlier discussion with Anthony; a man his equal in various ways. As I exited, I lingered in the doorway of the establishment, listening to the boisterous laughter and cheers from the main room. Through the walls, I could hear the giggles of the girls, bound to this place in ways I tried not to think about - something I'd always bitten my tongue about. It was a delicate balance we maintained: I received perfect cover and assistance when I needed it, and in return, I refrained from questioning or attacking their motives and actions.

Outside, the cold was harsher than I had anticipated, biting and bitter and for early December, the nights had been surprisingly mild until now. Dusk was quickly approaching, and something in the air gave the impression that snow should be expected rather soon. I had parked the car a few streets away. Despite being relatively unknown in this town, I preferred to avoid being seen frequenting strip clubs. The more people talked about you, the more attention you attracted from strangers and newcomers alike. Increased attention meant more eyes on you, necessitating politeness, idle chit-chat, and frequent public appearances to blend in. These were things I had left behind in a life tarnished by the flaws and follies of men.

This part of town was always quiet. Most of its residents were involved in the underground market. Those who weren't simply lacked the means to leave, choosing to stay locked up inside. Despite this, the houses and apartments, primarily Victorian in style, were quite charming. The local council maintained them well, with window balconies adorned with bright, colourful pots of flowers. Yet any local could tell you this was merely a façade, masking the underlying darkness.

It initially amused me that in a town with such an extensive police force, it was remarkably easy to get away with murder, theft, rape—any crime imaginable. By now, I was convinced someone high up was being bribed to keep quiet, only mobilizing the force when absolutely necessary.

As I walked through the area, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of fear of being alone. Normally, on my infrequent and dreaded visits to The Greenery, Luke would accompany me. He'd escort me from the car to the building and remain in the stripping area throughout the meeting. My disdain for the company and the establishment seemed lost on them, as they continued to send frequent invitations to evening get-togethers and meetings.

I quickened my pace as I made my way to my car, knowing full well that wandering these streets was foolish, regardless of how well-known or cautious you were—especially as a woman. The constant sounds of screeching tyres, distant jeers from men, and the rapid clicking of heels against the concrete were unsettling. The idea of being taken wasn't exactly a promising one, and I wasn't sure if the fact other women felt this way was comforting or more so worrisome that I was correct in my assumptions.

"Ma'am," a voice called out from behind me. I turned to see a tall man approaching. My first instinct was to run, but a part of me deep inside was curious to see how this would unfold. He stopped a few steps away, clearly noticing my nervousness.