“I tried being the tough chick and I've tried standing up for myself, and for what? I can't defend myself and I shouldn't have to keep calling you --"

“We're supposed to help you. That's what friends do. Hell, once Heda hears about this --

"You can't tell her," Madison hissed.

"I don't want her getting in trouble because of me. Promise me you won't tell her or Billy."

"I will promise no such thing. Billy would never forgive me, and you know he'll figure out what happened. He's smarter than both of us put together. And you think Heda won't notice you cringing in pain the next time you make out?"

"I probably won't see her until Friday --"

"She wanted to drive you to the job tonight," Sasha interrupted.

"I was going to help you pack and then she was going to pick you up.”

"No," Madison responded, “you have to give me a lift."

Sasha squared her shoulder, doing everything in her power to resist Madison's plaintive stare.

"I won't let you do nothing and I won't let you hide this from your friends."

"Why are you being such a bitch?"

Sasha glowered.

"Because I have to be. Turns out you're pretty cool most of the time and I like you. So tell me what happened and I'1l decide if you're going to the medical center first.”

"I can't," Madison said, putting her bag down and going to drag out the heavy case of gear she used for smaller parties.

“I need the money Sasha. I really need it."

Sasha sighed. When Madison started reminding her how poor she was, she had to accept she'd never win the argument completely. Madison had struggled to make ends meet on more than once occasion, and her stubborn pride would not let the were-bat ask for help.

"Your health is worth more than your job," she reminded the girl.

"But not my rep. I start showing up late for gigs, then I might as well kiss the extra money goodbye."

“Madison, you were mugged."

“yihat? came a voice from the door.

‘Damn,' Madison thought as she realized that Heda had shown up to give her a Lift. She should have been happy to see her new friend, but all she could feel was a deep-rooted shame.

"Mugged?" Heda reiterated.

“When? Did you get a good look ——"