CHAPTER FORTY SIX – PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT

As she was clearing a table, a hand grabbed her arm. Cassie turned to find Lisa, another waitress, glaring at her. "Listen here, newbie," Lisa snarled, her voice low and threatening. "I don't know what game you're playing, but you'd better watch your step. This isn't some rinky-dink diner. You're in the big leagues now, and we don't take kindly to little girls trying to sleep their way to the top." Cassie jerked her arm away, anger flaring in her chest. "I don't know what you're talking about. I'm just here to do my job." Lisa laughed, the sound cold and mocking. "Oh, please. We all saw how Karl looked at you. Just remember, honey, men like him? They don't keep their toys for long. Enjoy it while it lasts." Before Cassie could respond, Lisa sauntered away, leaving her trembling with a mixture of rage and humiliation. The rest of the night passed in a haze of forced smiles and barely contained tension. By the time last call rolled around, Cassie was exhausted, both physically and e