Laughter filled the air at the crowded bar as more people filed in. The men's lively chatter rang out, punctuated by the reverberating thud of their glasses hitting the counter. The room was filled with the boisterous voices of the patrons, demanding another round of beer from the barkeeper.
Outside, the unexpected snowfall had brought the tiny town of Grandshope to a complete standstill. The blizzard had blanketed everything in a pure white cloak. With the winter shut down in place, the townspeople had ample time to lose themselves in unproductive activities.
It was no surprise that most of the men sought solace in the bar's welcoming embrace, indulging in drink, gambling, and untoward revelry with the hostesses. Amidst the lively atmosphere, Dahlia found comfort in the chaos of noise and the presence of many witnesses.
She desperately hoped that the commotion would deter Allison or her brother Aaron, if he was watching, from making any foolish moves.
