A Cruel Melody

The heavy question hung in the oppressive air of the VIP room, illuminated by harsh neon lights. Mr. Gale stared her down. Sloane remained silent. Her eyes darted nervously across the polished glass table. She possessed no entertaining talents. She could not dance or engage in witty banter. She had nothing to offer a man looking for a club performance.

Sensing the hesitation, Maeve intervened. Sh