Esther

Bloom pulled Esther up the stairs and into a luxurious room. She let go of Esther’s hand and wrote on her pad, “This is my granny's room.”

Esther's eyes widened, and she stepped back towards the door. “I don't think it's right to bring me here.”

Bloom shook her head and wrote on her pad again, “It’s okay, she's hardly ever here.”

Esther felt uncomfortable as she looked into the room. It had dark purple furnishings: dark purple velvet drapes adorned the tall, arched windows; a large four-poster bed complete with a canopy of the same rich purple fabric; and the floor was covered in plush deep purple carpet. The dark mahogany dresser and armoire added to the opulence of the room. Despite what Bloom said, the room didn't look like it was rarely occupied.

Bloom tossed her pad on the couch in the corner and pulled a reluctant Esther towards the dresser. Just then, the door opened, and about four women sashayed in. They wore bright makeup and stylish dresses, also carrying several bags. Esth