Chapter 16 Lauren Has Nothing

• Lauren trotted past the dimly lit corridor with her arms crossed, as if that would make her feel safer. Mr. Kale might have said the ugly truth, but it was still the truth. She was just a singer now. In a place where people sold themselves out, pride meant nothing. Lauren was no longer the talented young miss she used to be. Now she had nothing but her pride left. Even if she and Riley had to go homeless and starve, Lauren would never sell her body to be someone’s plaything. If she did, she would be living in indignity.
• “How did it go? Was it bad?” When Lucy saw Lauren hiding in a corner, she went to sit with her, wanting to know what happened.
• Lauren looked up at Lucy and shook her head after she approached her. “Is it my turn now?” Lucy nodded, then Lauren stood up with difficulty and trudged to the stage.