A Touch of Ruin (Hades & Persephone 2)

“It’s time, ladies and gentlemen.”

Persephone followed Ismena’s lead. They filed into an adjacent room were a series of chairs were arranged. As they entered, they were given numbers and took their seats. One by one, the Madame summoned men and women, and as they disappeared into the darkness around her, Persephone’s heart raced. She wondered what Hades would do if he found out she was about to auction herself off to the highest bidder in a brothel.

Then another thought occurred to her—what if she couldn’t find Apollo?

She waited forever—until everyone in the room was gone except for her.

The Madam entered.

“Your turn, Kora.”

Persephone rose and followed the woman into the shadow. She was directed onto a round stage. She could see nothing beyond it, but she knew people were scattered in the dark beyond because she could sense them. A torrent of emotions hit her—intense loneliness and longing, beneath that, there was a tinge of amusement. She looked up into the darkness and offered a soft half smile.

“I’m here for you, Apollo.”

The madam appeared from the shadow, as quick as lightning, and snatched her by the wrist.

“How dare you! This auction is supposed to be anonymous.”

A voice crackled through an intercom.

“Don’t leave a bruise, Madam Selene, or you will face the wrath of Hades.”

So much for anonymity.

The woman inhaled sharply and released her; eyes wide.

“You are Persephone?”

Apollo’s voice crackled over the intercom again.

“Escort her to my suite.”

Persephone turned to the Madam expectantly. It took her a moment to move, she seemed frozen, staring at her as if she were one of the dead herself. After a moment, she cleared her throat and bowed her head.

“This way, my lady.”

The Madam led Persephone out of the room and into a mirrored elevator. When the doors closed, Madame Selene stared at Persephone through the reflection.

“Why did you let me treat you like one of my girls?”

Persephone shrugged. “I was curious. Don’t worry, if everyone in attendance tonight keeps my secret, I’ll ensure Hades never finds out that you laid a hand on me. Understood?”

“Of course.”

Madame Selene pulled out a key and inserted it into the panel, pressing the button for the third floor. They were silent until the Madame asked, “Are you here to bargain with him?”

Persephone’s heart raced. “Why would I bargain with Apollo?”

“Because you’re desperate.”

Persephone stared at the woman.

“I see desperation every day, my love. If you’re seeking an end to it, trust me, Apollo’s not the answer.”

Persephone clenched her jaw. “Remember my promise earlier, Madame? You’d do well to stay quiet.”

The woman offered a half smile and Persephone thought it hinted at her wickedness. “Apologies, my lady.”