Chapter 136 Making new friends

The following evening, Mariama found herself back at Enzo's bar. Despite her new arrangement with Vito, she knew she had to maintain her cover. As she tied on her apron, a familiar voice called out to her. "Hey, new girl! Come here a second." Mariama turned to see Gina, the tough-as-nails bartender, beckoning her over. With some trepidation, she approached the bar. "Listen up," Gina said, her voice low and urgent. "I saw what happened the other night with that creep. You handled it okay, but you need to learn a few tricks if you're gonna survive in this place." Mariama blinked, surprised by the unexpected show of solidarity. "I... thank you. I'd appreciate any advice." Gina's eyes darted around the bar, making sure Enzo wasn't within earshot. "First rule: always keep something sharp on you. A pen, a corkscrew, anything. Not to use, mind you, but to threaten if things get hairy." She demonstrated, pulling a pen from her apron pocket and holding it like a weapon. "See? Aim for the