Jessica sat gazing out the train window at the dark, wintry landscape rolling by. The first rays of sunlight were just visible on the eastern horizon, marking the end of one of the strangest nights of her life. To her left, Jane was snoozing peacefully; across the aisle from them, Marie and Celeste were likewise asleep. Marie had toppled sideways such that her head was resting on Celeste's left shoulder.
The drive from the whorehouse back to the city had been uneventful. Jessica had sat facing the rear the entire way, scanning to see if they were followed, but the roads were mostly empty and the few vehicles they did see were all headed the other way. They stopped back at the hotel just long enough to pack up and check out. Jessica assigned Jane and Marie the task of getting all their stuff together while she used the hotel phone to make an anonymous tip to the police. She hoped this would help anyone else still being held captive at the mansion.
Josie was at the front desk when they checked out, and nervously avoided meeting Jessica's eyes. After signing off on the astronomical bill, Jessica said, "Thank you so much for the excellent service."
Josie looked up at her now and, smiling sheepishly, replied, "It was my pleasure."
Rocky drove them to the train station and helped them get their luggage to the curb. There were hugs and kisses all around, and Celeste embraced Rocky warmly, kissing her on both cheeks while talking to her in French.
"She says she is deeply in your debt for the way you have helped her," said Marie. "She will never forget you."
Rocky tipped her hat and said, "Just doing my job, ma'am." Marie translated this phrase for Celeste, who looked at Rocky quizzically, unsure of what she meant. Everyone laughed and Celeste smiled, happy to have amused them, though not sure why.
