Eloise decided she would erase that night from her mind.

She needed the job.

The health insurance was excellent. And that was what kept her father stable.

The surgery was already scheduled.

Every dollar she earned already had a purpose.

There was no room for emotional confusion.

'Enough illusions.

'I'll wear armor stronger than yours, August Montgomery.'

She thought firmly as she finished getting ready.

A black pencil skirt. A crisp white blouse. A perfectly tailored blazer.