His Destructive, Toxic Love (Jasper and Eliza)

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."

customers' room. They'd almost finished their meal, chatting and laughing together. The room was spacious, and their demeanor was relaxed.

her harp, she began to play. The strings' melodious

by another man.

watching Eliza from across the room. "That's

working

is, they're getting

understood the situation. "Divorces are always a mess. Look at Casper. He looks like he wants to tear her

"I'd stay away if

be afraid of? If Casper cared, would he

thereof, were written in his eyes. Clearly, he didn't have any love left for

drink and staggered over to Eliza. "Hold up a

do you

for music. I like to drink," Nate handed his glass to Eliza. "Do me a favor and drink