The next day seemed to come too quickly to Hannah. Not long after dawn, she found herself trudging to Jono's instead of lying in bed, a little groggy-eyed but refreshed by the cool air and early quiet. It wasn't an altogether bad feeling having a change in routine, to feel like she was like actually going to make some use of herself. And some money of her own, if not much.

At Jono's, Hannah was introduced to a group of five girls – including Sora whom she'd half-met yesterday – as well as the washer boys and Stephanie, Jono's sullen spinster daughter and the cook. Ginia was easily the friendliest of the lot, which Hannah was glad for. The girl had lent her a yellow dress to wear that day, one that fit awkwardly over her small chest and sinewy arms.

"Hannah," Jono addressed her. "Since you're new, you'll not be doing any serving as yet. Do the clearing and help the girls with anything else they need. Easy enough?"

She nodded.

"Good. We'll see how your first day goes."

Before they opened the doors, there was a lot to be done, and she was thrown right into it with the rest of the girls – sweeping, wiping and upturning of chairs. It was such a strange thing, to be working for someone rather than her own family. To have to serve strangers. But at least she wouldn't have to do any of that today. She was glad for that.

It was mid-morning when Jono's started accepting customers. There weren't many yet, and Hannah hardly got near them, watching as the other girls swooped them inside and took orders, made chit-chat, poured drinks. Every girl had their own section, and every girl seemed to have their own regulars. Sora was the prettiest, but Ginia proved to be the most popular. It was her nature, Hannah realized. She supposed it wasn't always about beauty, not even with these men.

As the sun rose, the lunch crowd came. Hannah could no longer hang by the wall, and found herself rushing back and forth, taking away dirty dishes, cleaning spills, and repeatedly mopping left-behind dirt trails. It was exhausting, but she was quite glad to be working again. The distraction was almost calming, in a strange way. Time passed quickly, as it always did when there was much to be done, and before she knew it, the day was turning to evening.

Two of the girls went to Jono to announce the end of their shift, and she went over to ask the same. "Yes, yes, you can go now. Make sure you're here tomorrow. You don't know how many girls showed the first day only to disappear the second."

"How was it?"

"How was what?"

"My work today."

He paused, shrugging. "Didn't have much chance to see, really. But I saw no major slip-ups, so you must not be entirely useless."

"I'm glad," she said dryly.

"Alright, tomorrow then."

She went into the supply room in the back, changing out of Ginia's dress into the blue one she'd worn in the morning. There was a whole bag of such dresses here just for her, courtesy of Ginia. Her 'uniforms', she thought, with a faint laugh.

She took her leave, saying goodbye to Ginia and the other girls before she left. What a day, she thought on the walk back. She'd never seen so many faces in so few hours, not to mention cleaned so much. She breathed out, treading through the alley that was her shortcut. By the time she reached Magda's, it was fully night, and she realized just how tired she really was. She waited in the hall for dinner, and was spotted a moment later by Sister Vicki. "Hannah! There you are, we've been looking everywhere for you."

"What?"

"Your brother came by this afternoon, asking for you."

"He did?"

"Yes. Tried searching the whole church for you."

"Oh. I didn't realize – "

"Where were you?"

She hesitated.

"You worried your brother quite a bit, you know. So? Tell it then."

"Well, I was, um … " she wavered, suddenly feeling ashamed as she thought of Jono's. It was barely a decent place to be seen in, let alone work for.

In her pause, Sister Vicki straightened up, clasping her arms together like a lock. "You know, I think I might be able to guess, Hannah."

"Really?"

"It's not that hard," she said, squinting interestedly. "I've seen it, you know. And I suppose it's not unexpected for any girl in your position."

"Oh. Really? I didn't think anyone would see it that way. I didn't think anyone would understand."

"I do understand. But that doesn't mean it's something I condone."

"I know, but it's just – I'm alone here, and I have so much time to myself … "

"Yes, I know. But I must warn you. Other girls have done the same, many other girls, only to be disappointed."

Hannah frowned, a bit confused.

Sister Vicki gazed at her, something like pity flowering in her brown eyes. She came forward, standing close and whispering, "You seem a good girl, Hannah. I would advise you to put an end to this. Quickly."

"But I just started. I haven't even done anything yet."

Sister Vicki jerked a little at that, for some reason. "It's for the best."

Right then, they heard the jangle of the dinner bell, and Sister Vicki did a tight smile. "Let me know if you need any help."

Hannah stared her after she left, frowning even more deeply. Why did she make a job sound like such an awful thing? Did she already know it was such a place as Jono's? That might explain it.

Early the next morning, she found Sister Vicki at the watch desk, and went to approach her. "Good morning."

Sister Vicki glanced up. "Hello, Hannah."

"I'm leaving now. If Rio comes again, please tell him he can find me at Jono's."

"Where?"

"Jono's. On the Corona. It's an eating house."

"Eating house?" Her eyes suddenly widened. "You're going to see him again, aren't you?"

"What? See who?"

"The Captain."

"The Captain?" Hannah repeated, only guessing it slowly. "You mean ... Captain Droy?"

"Of course." Sister Vicki looked confused now. "Isn't that what we talked about last night?"

"I thought we were talking about my work."

"Work?"

"Yes. Jono's is where I work now. That's where I was yesterday, and it's where I'm going today. What did you think?"

"I'm sorry." Sister Vicki reddened considerably. "Forgive me, I thought ... "

"What?"

"Well, everyone knows he's been coming to see you."

"Everyone?" she repeated, squeaking.

"Some of us were concerned. The Captain has a bit of a reputation."

"I bet he does."

"You should stay away from him, Hannah. A very bad thing happened here once, because of him."

Hannah was curious, despite herself. Could she spare a few minutes? Perhaps if she ran later, she could still make it. "What do you mean?"

Sister Vicki paused, glancing around to make sure there was no one to hear. "Well, we once had a young girl, an initiate, by the name of Wendy. It was only a few years ago. She was a lovely girl, so quiet and well-behaved, a good student. At that time, Captain Droy and Captain Tanner used to come here frequently, and somehow, they met and of course, she fell for him, like so many other girls. And he kept coming to see her, just as he is now with you. She always pretended they were only friends, but we knew better. They must have seen each other for months before he finally broke with her, refused to marry her. She was so upset, she stood out in the snow and refused to come in unless he came to see her. We had to quickly fetch him in the middle of the night before she made herself ill."

Hannah was amazed. "Then what happened? Where is she now?"

"She was heartbroken of course. Was in no state to continue her studies at all. Her family sent her away, and last I heard, married her to a holy man. A sad story, but we all hope her life is better now. And as for Captain Droy, well, he'll never be favored by me for it. I'll never forget what he did to that poor girl."

Hannah shut her eyes, struck by Sister Vicki's story. "That's awful."

"Now you understand why I meant to warn you."

"I have no interest in the Captain, so you really need not worry."

"If that's true, then you're a smart girl, Hannah."

She turned, nodding towards the door. "I really should be going."

"Jono's, is it? Very well then. If your brother comes, I'll be sure to let him know."

"But not the Captain."

"No, no. I won't tell him a word."

"Thank you, Sister. I appreciate it." She took off, her mind whirling from all that she'd been told.

So she had right about Captain Droy. She was glad she'd seen right through him. Who knew what would have happened if she'd been just another silly girl and fallen for all his tricks?

...

A few days later, Rio appeared at Jono's during lunchtime. He couldn't have come at a worse time, and Hannah only had a chance to speak to him when the sun lowered and the crowd shrank.

"I can't believe my eyes," he said, as she went up to him. Very quickly, his eyes flicked over her dress – Ginia's dress – disapproving.

"It's not mine," she explained.

"I can tell," he said, meaning how badly it fit her awkward frame. "You do stick out among these girls, you know."

"Work is work."

"I knew you weren't going to listen to me, but here? Why?"

"No one else would take me. So you were right. It's hard finding hire in the city. Hard ... but not impossible."

"You can't be serious about this."

"Haven't you seen me this past hour? How hard I've been working?"

"You don't need to work."

"Hold on a minute." She carted away to clear a table, before quickly rushing back. "You know, I didn't stop you from doing what you wanted to. Why can't you show me the same respect?"

"There's nothing to respect about this."

"Well, I don't need your approval."

He did a snort, and then they were both silent for a while.

"So," Hannah muttered. " ... how are things at the station?"

"Much the same." Her brother paused. "The Captain's been asking about you."

"Really."

"He really cares about us, you know."

Like he cared about Wendy?

"Alright, handsome Sir," Ginia appeared, bearing food for Rio. "Here is your meal. Enjoy!"

Hannah shook her head. "Well," she said. "I suppose I'll leave you to eat."

"When do you finish work?"

"Just before dinner."

"So long?"

She did a light shrug. "Some of the girls work much longer."

"That's not a good thing."

Hannah didn't answer, walking away.

For the rest of the week, things were quite uneventful. Hannah concentrated on work, doing well enough to earn a small section of tables for herself. And she knew what that meant – a chance to make more money of her own through tips. According to Ginia, on good months, she was even able to double her salary thanks to tips. Hannah was sure she could never match Ginia's hearty, flirty nature, but hoped to at least make something.

On Sunday, she made her first great tip. It was the end of lunch, and she only had two tables of customers left to mind while she cleaned. She was on her knees, scrubbing under a table when she saw a customer in the doorway.

"I'm looking for Hannah?" she heard, and the voice made her still.

"I'm sorry, who?" It was Sora answering, sounding a little bewildered.

"Hannah. Hannah Iver. I believe she works here?"

No, thought Hannah desperately. It was Macks – she'd know that voice anywhere. She bent her head low and didn't move, hoping neither of them would see her.

"Funny," Sora muttered. "I just saw her. She must be around somewhere."

Hannah watched his feet walk inside, slow and casual. They came forward, brushed by the end of his cloak, and finally stopped at the table where she was. Two high laced boots, solid and grooved. He bent down, an amused face gazing through the table legs at her. "Hello there," he greeted, smiling prettily.

Hannah blinked. "Um." Yes, that was really all she managed to say.

"What are you doing?"

"Cleaning."

"'Scuse me, Sir," Sora re-appeared, looking all helpful and demure. "I have a lovely table over here I could show you to."

"No, thank you. I'm here for my friend."

Hannah stood up, and Sora glanced suspiciously at her, as if she couldn't believe these two were really 'friends', as he put it. Finally, the other girl walked away, leaving the two of them alone.

"So," he started. "Aren't you going to get me a table?"

Hannah tried not to roll her eyes, turning around and doing it out of his sight instead. She led him away from everyone else, to a table in the corner that she knew had shaky legs.

"Can't I have one by the window?" he asked.

"No."

He shrugged at that, not wanting to argue with her. He sat down, breathing a loud sigh as he did so, then glanced up at her. A perfect smile cut across his face, one he probably thought would win her over. "So this is where you work."

She didn't respond. She was standing with one hand on her hip, glaring down at him, but all her forces of negativity didn't seem to be working on him.

"It's not too bad," he commented. "Although I personally prefer ... well, never mind."

"Well then," she said, wanting only to get this part of the day over with. "What'll you have?"

"I don't know. I've never been here before. What's good?"

She thought for a moment. "I'd suggest you try the red snapper." Jono's daughter had the most trouble with that dish. She had a tendency to overcook it.

"Then the snapper it is. And something to drink too."

Hannah nodded, trying hard not to grin at how nefarious she was being. She went off, giving the order to the kitchen. A few customers later, she returned to Macks carrying a plate of slightly black meat. "There you are," she said, placing the food before him. "I hope it's to your liking."

"Everything from your hand is to my liking." He turned, watching with interest as a customer tugged one of the girls, Deedee onto his lap. All the men at the table cheered, and she laughed easily with them, even holding up the man's beer to his lips.

Hannah had never before had to worry about that kind of attention from men, being easily the least attractive girl there. But for the first time, she felt uncomfortable with a customer, as the Captain turned to her with an intent gaze. She knew full well he was trying to amuse himself by baiting her. Just another heart to break.

"This seems like a very friendly place," he remarked.

"No," she insisted, sure her cheeks were flaming red.

"Isn't it?"

"You know, Captain, some girls are just … expressive."

"Oh, I am very aware of that. But those are the less interesting ones, you know."

"You mean less challenging?" she said with a smirk.

"Oh, definitely."

"I'm sure you consider yourself quite the expert."

"I don't know about that. Currently, I do believe I am up against my greatest challenge yet."

"Really."

"Oh, yes. Let me tell you – this girl, she avoids me, confuses me, dismisses everything I say ... "

"I pity her."

"You pity her and not me? Why?"

"Because she has to endure your efforts."

"Endure? She's meant to enjoy them."

"How can she enjoy them if they are not sincere?"

"What makes her think he is not sincere?" he wanted to know.

Hannah stared at him, silent. If he thought her will was going to be outdone by his, he was wrong. She strolled off without a word, making it a point to keep far away from his table.

When he finally finished his food and left (waving cheerfully to her in goodbye), it was none too soon. Relieved, she went over to clear his table, finding that he'd left an enormous tip. She stared at the money for a moment, surprised by how much her hands were itching to take it. She bit her lip, scooping up the coins. No matter how much she wanted the money, it was still his money. She didn't want anything from that man, not even a cent.

Someone appeared next to her, and she turned to see Sora and Ginia standing there.

"How in the world," Sora started, looking sour. " ... do you know Macks Droy?"

"He teaches my brother."

"Of course," Ginia went, slapping her forehead. "He is in the guard. I'd forgotten."

"You know he doesn't really take you seriously?" Sora said.

Even though Hannah did know, the words stung.

"I'm sure they're just friends," Ginia reasoned with a smile.

"Friends! Macks Droy makes no friends, not with women anyway."

"We're not friends," she argued. "He came to – talk to me about my brother. That was all."

"Really? Well, he sure was generous," Sora pointed out the money in her hands, and she immediately went red.

"He was just trying to be kind."

"Well, why does he single you out for his kindness?"

"Sora," Ginia broke in disapprovingly.

"Here," Hannah offered her tip out to both of them.

"What's this?" Sora raised a brow.

"Take it."

"No, it's yours."

"I don't care. I don't want it."

"Why not?"

"I just don't. You are right. He should show his kindness to others and not just me. So please take it."

"You don't mean it."

"I do." She took Sora's hand, dropping all of Macks' coins in her palm. "There. It's yours now. Do whatever you want with it."

She walked away before they could question her anymore, but already she felt exposed. It seemed the Captain was more infamous than she'd thought. The problem was he was now dragging her to everyone's attention. What must people think? That she was undeserving, because she was ugly compared to him? That she was just another lovestruck fool?

She had to put a stop to this. Somehow, she had to think of a way.