Chapter 49

Ruth sat in the private room of Lumiere, feeling uneasy as she watched Joe drinking and laughing with three women wearing heavy makeup. Xavier, seated nearby, leaned over and whispered something to Edith. Edith then approached Ruth and said, "Ruth, you're not enjoying the noise, are you? Xavier suggested I take you to another room where it's quieter." Ruth nodded and followed Edith out of the room and into one across the hallway. This room was empty, and Ruth felt much more at ease without the smoke and strong perfume. "Ruth, please sit here for a moment," Edith said before leaving the room. Michael had always been very strict about Ruth's upbringing. She had never visited places like bars or karaoke lounges. She had come out of curiosity, but now she regretted it. If it weren't for social obligations, she would have left immediately as this kind of place just wasn't for her. Shortly after Edith left, Xavier entered the room carrying a glass of plain water. "Ruth, I know you don'