Blood Files

She didn't sleep well. The early staffers knew it because Hank didn't smile. She passed pleasantries as always, but her normal spark wasn't in her eyes or smile. Whispers began about "last night."

Rumors circulated through the pack. Hank ignored them as she set about her daily maintenance. Dressed in her usual overall shorts, work boots, and tank top, she wrapped her long, brown hair into a rubber band. First, the slot machines were checked for tampering or hacking. She popped the back of each and plugged her meter into the slots. With a few taps, she calibrated her meter to verify the machine was still in working order.

"I assure you, Mr. Hendricks, I will be quite safe." John stood outside of his car, smiling a little at his bodyguard.

"With Sitri, yes. With the sister?" Hendricks shook his massive block of a head, as if to argue.

"Hendricks. Go back to the house with Ms. Gard. If you do not hear from me in two hours, then you can mount a full rescue, I promise." Gard was standing outside another car, waiting patiently for Hendricks. "Ms. Gard, you know the usual ways to contact me should something arise."

"Of course." The tall blonde slipped into the car, followed reluctantly by Hendricks. Marcone watched as they drove off, then opened the main door to the Bella Luna and walked inside. He was greeted by Nauti smiling at him from near the tables.

"Sitri's not here," she said, smiling up at him.

"Actually, I'm here to speak with Hank," he answered smoothly. "Where would I find her?"