“Grab your party and stand over there.” She points next to the roped-off line by one of the entrance doors.

I do as she says, ushering the ladies up to the front, and ignoring the glares we get from the other patrons in line.

“Okay, Lance will check your IDs then Veronica will meet you inside.”

“Are we all going to the bathroom?” Molly asks. “I have to pee, too!”

“Apparently,” I say, handing my ID over to Lance. Once we’re all checked in, we walk in the front door to find Veronica, who is going to lead us to the restroom. It’s a service they offer, I guess, either that or they’re afraid we’ll go rogue and hit the dance floor when we’ve only been admitted to the restroom. Now that we’re inside, it’s going to be hard to go back out and wait in line. Crap. I should have asked if we could save our spots. We’re going to be at the back of the line again. Not that we moved up much in the two minutes we stood there.

Veronica leads us through the club and then upstairs. I’m confused when she stops in front of a low table surrounded by three plush loveseats.

“Where’s the restroom?” Lauren asks, her eyeballs floating.

“Down the hallway on the right,” Veronica responds. “Make yourselves comfortable, I’ll be right back.”

She’s back quickly, and now carrying a tray with bottles of champagne and flute glasses.

“I’m sorry, what is this?” I ask.

“Champagne service.” She smiles and pops the cork on one of the bottles.

I’m not sure how much a bottle of champagne costs here, let alone how much multiple bottles will cost.

“We just needed to pee,” I shout over the music, but Veronica continues to pour and hand out the glasses.

“This is so cool, Chloe.” Molly beams, looking around at the busy club.

“Wow, Chloe,” Claire gushes. “This is impressive.”

I smile, because it is impressive, though I have no idea where it came from. Maybe it’s those good karma reservation confirmation vibes righting themselves after my mishap with the restaurant. Whatever it is, it gives me the boost of confidence that the women are enjoying themselves and while this is nothing like my typical Friday night in NYC, it’s exactly what I wanted them to experience.

I’m on cloud nine until Veronica finishes filling the champagne glasses, and hands me a small card.

Be safe – B

The only person who knew I was coming here tonight besides Jules was Barrett. He must have arranged this. It doesn’t make sense. Why would he do that? So I’m indebted to him further? My stomach sinks. That’s the only reason I can think of.

Claire squeezes my arm with excitement. “Lauren is having the best time. We’re all having so much fun.”

Lauren returns from the bathroom.