The uncertainty of her situation weighed heavily upon her. Without Henry's continued interest, her elevated status within the establishment would quickly dissolve, leaving her vulnerable to the same fate as the other girls.
The door opened and Nicholas Beaumont stepped in. Both Livia and Jane rose immediately.
"I have a client lined up for you," Beaumont announced.
"Sir?" Livia began. "I thought I had till the end of the month."
"Well, it seems to me your gentleman caller had a taste and lost continued interest. I haven't seen him return, have you?"
Livia's fingers tightened slightly at her sides. "But he paid for the entire month!"
"No matter," Nicholas said dismissively, waving a hand. "Coin already spent is no coin at all. I cannot afford to turn away another patron—not one of this calibre." His eyes gleamed with calculation. "He seems like he can afford you, my prized jewel. I have sent him a message. I should get feedback soon."
"But…" Livia tried again.
