NICOLE

I find myself inside the room, surrounded by strange faces I've never seen before. The Bruiser is standing right beside me, saying a few words to let everyone know who I am.

Nobody looks surprised; it seems they were expecting me.

"Nicole, I'd like to introduce you first to my wife, Amanda," he says, gesturing at a woman who appears to be in her late fifties like he is. She's tall, blonde, and elegant. And I'm surprised by the smile she flashes at me, considering I'm someone he had ...