I walk out from the building, hoping that this is the last time I ever have to see it again, when I remember I need a ride to Mary’s house, and quick. The bus doesn’t come for another hour…

“Stacie!” I hear from behind. Please don’t be—

“Ethan, what are you doing?” His eyes are still bloodshot, but he’s dressed rather nicely.

“I figured you need a ride home or something and the last thing I want for you is to get in the car with a stranger,” Ha, and we all know how that ended up last time.

“All right. I need a ride to Mary’s house. And you’re staying outside.”

Mary lives in the somewhat dirty part of town. I can see why she works at club Majesty. I knock on her door twice before she answers with a huge smile.

“Stacie! Oh my God, come in, come in!” I step inside her house, which makes it seem like she’s rich. The furniture looks expensive, and everything is clean and tidy. “Did you hear, I’m moving!”

“I did! That’s great, and that’s kinda what I wanted to you talk about…”