The Second Blow

The sharp, sickening crack of Corinne’s hand connecting with Sloane’s cheek echoed through the hushed boutique. The sheer force of the blow snapped Sloane's head hard to the right. Her messy hair whipped across her face, obscuring her vision. A stinging heat exploded across her skin, followed instantly by the undeniable metallic taste of blood pooling beneath her tongue.

The high-end boutique, u