Chapter 12

(Mariana)

It had been days since I had last seen Janet, and I couldn't help but feel worried. I had visited the basement at different times, but each time I went, I was told that I wasn't allowed inside.

"What's on your mind?" Theo asked, a kind smile on his face.

"I could use a drink," I replied, trying to keep my voice light. Theo was the bartender here. He was a friendly guy who worked part time.

Theo nodded in understanding, his hands busy as he wiped the glass cups. "I wish I could serve you a drink," he said, "but you know how Margot is, she'd kill us if she found us drinking on the job"

"I know, I know," I said, a hint of disappointment in my voice.Theo gave me a sympathetic look.

"Maybe if you'd tell me what's troubling you I could help" He said and bent forward on the counter. "A problem shared is a problem half solved."

"I can't." I said with a sigh and placed my head on the counter.

"Poor Mariana." He said and patted my head before he went back to clean the glasses.

My t