Chapter 1: Introduction
The neon sign above the bar flickered, casting an intermittent glow over the worn leather of the booth where Jo and Em sat, huddled over a crumpled newspaper. The air was thick with the scent of stale beer and the hum of hushed conversations that seemed to drift from table to table like ghosts. A jukebox in the corner played a melancholy tune that could barely be heard above the murmur of the patrons.
Jo traced the lines of an advertisement with his finger, his brow furrowed in thought.
He looked up at Em, his long hair falling over one eye, and said, "You think this could be legit?"
Em leaned over the table, her vivid eyes scanning the words. "It says ' wealthy individual seeking unique experience. Generous compensation.' Sounds legit to me." She tapped the ad with her fingernail, a small smile playing on her lips. "We could really use the money, Jo."
Jo sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I know, Em. I just don't want us to get into something... weird."
Em laughed, a sound that was as vibrant as her personality.