His Destructive, Toxic Love

The manager had set up a special, private stage just for her. If a customer wanted a solo performance, she'd head to their private dining room and play for two hours-for a cool $2,000.

Eliza had only been working at the lounge for a week, but plenty of patrons had already requested a private solo. Sure, some customers got a bit too friendly, but they never crossed the line-maybe a casual brush of the hand at most. She'd just ignore it and keep going. Nothing was worth making a fuss over in the service industry unless it was getting out of hand.

After her evening shift, Eliza was ready to change and head home when the manager approached her.

"Eliza, a group of customers came in late and asked for a few more songs. I've managed to negotiate $3,000 for you. Are you up for it?"

The manager was always fair with her, and Eliza never wanted to let him down. Besides, $3,000 would cover her living expenses for the month.

"Sure thing, boss."

"Thanks a lot."

"No problem, I'll just touch up my makeup."

After freshening up, Eliza, carrying her harp, walked into the customers' room. They'd almost finished their meal, chatting and laughing together. The room was spacious, and their demeanor was relaxed. They were clearly just enjoying themselves.

Eliza kept her eyes down. After setting up her harp, she began to play. The strings' melodious sound quickly captured the men's attention.

"That chick's pretty cute, I..." A drunken man started to approach her but was pulled back by another man. "Open your eyes and see who that woman is." Nate squinted. "She looks familiar."

Jonah pointed at a man intently watching Eliza from across the room. "That's Casper's wife."

"Casper's wife, working here? No way."

"Word is, they're getting a divorce."

Nate understood the situation. "Divorces are always a mess. Look at Casper. He looks like he wants to tear her apart."Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

True enough, but Jonah still cautioned, "I'd stay away if I were you."

"What's there to be afraid of? If Casper cared, would he let her perform for money?"

Casper's feelings, or lack thereof, were written in his eyes. Clearly, he didn't have any love left for his wife.

Nate poured himself a drink and staggered over to Eliza. "Hold up a sec."

Eliza stopped and looked up at him. "Sir, do you have a request? Just let me know."

"I don't care for music. I like to drink," Nate handed his glass to Eliza. "Do me a favor and drink this."

He turned to check Casper's reaction. Getting no response, he got bolder, placing his hand on her shoulder. "IDon't embarrass me here in front of my buddies."

Eliza never drank with customers. Gently standing up and pulling her shoulder away, she politely declined. "I don't drink, sorry."

"You're really not gonna drink for me?" Nate grabbed Eliza by the neck, pushing the glass towards her mouth. "If you don't respect me, I won't give you any either."

When she didn't drink, he forced her head back, pouring the drink down her throat. Eliza choked, tears welling up in her eyes.

"I'm not bullying you." He slapped a stack of cash in front of her. "I've seen plenty like you, acting all high and mighty. One drink for ten grand-if you're willing to drink, the money's yours."