Jane's usual mischief was still there, but beneath that was exhaustion. Her life was bruised by too many nights, too many hands, too many men. "I'd take being tied to one person for the rest of my life," Jane said, "no matter who it is, instead of getting used and abused by different men every night. The only decent gentleman I have is Lionel."
Jane lifted her chin. "He tips well, speaks politely."
"Well, I think everyone is excited too." Livia gestured toward the other girls.
They did look excited. Tense, jealous, hopeful, desperate.
Jane leaned in. "The man is quite old."
"Oh?"
"The girls he has been with say most times he just falls asleep next to them. It is paradise," Jane whispered fiercely. "Imagine it. A husband who sleeps."
Livia's smile faded slightly.
Jane clasped her hands under her chin and looked heavenward. "Once he kicks the bucket, freedooooom!" She sang the last word so softly and dramatically that Livia had to bite back a laugh.
