Chapter Twenty-Two
I knew the Den would be packed, but it’s still shocking to see it lit up and sparkling, so different from how dark and bloody I saw it last. Yellow light spills from the door, which stands open. Two bouncers stand on either side, as large as professional football players. Maybe they actually are professional football players. They’re wearing suits which had to have been custom made. No way does anything that broad in the chest and arms come off a rack.
They’re checking names off a list.
Some of the people clutch a cream vellum invitation with calligraphy, as if to prove that they’re allowed. Apparently their elegant gowns and tuxes wouldn’t be proof enough. I’m sure no one gets in if their identity isn’t confirmed.
“We won’t get in,” I say, my heart squeezing.
I kne
