69

Mercy led Loretta into a shop bursting with a fusion of vibrant fabrics. "This one, dear," Mercy mentioned, holding up an emerald green dress that was simply befitting.

"Try it on," Mercy urged, handing the garment to Loretta.

Loretta struggled into the dress soft silk falling on her skin. It was the right fit, accentuating all her curves properly.

Mercy smiled in approval. "Beautiful! You have a natural elegance."

Then Mercy selected a flowing, lavender gown. "This one will make your eyes pop," she promised.

Loretta donned the gown and checked herself in the mirror. The color was certainly bringing out the sparkle in her eyes.

As they continued to shop, Mercy talked to the vendors, greeting them with warm smiles and easy bursts of laughter. For the first time, Loretta started to think of Mercy as a person-warm, concerned, rather than just Fabian's conscientious assistant.

But Loretta's mind was fixed on escape. She glanced around the market, looking for her opportunity.

"Mercy, I nee