The theatre doors creaked shut behind them, sealing off the noise and chaos of the outside world. The space inside was dimly lit, but not dark. Red velvet curtains hung like drapes of blood across the walls, their edges frayed. The air smelled thick. Not of dust or mold like Aria expected, but of alcohol, sweat, and something almost sweet that made her stomach turn.
Crystal wrinkled her nose. "It smells like a bar in here."
Aria's expression darkened as her eyes scanned the space. The main seating area had been cleared of chairs and replaced with low tables and silk cushions. Bottles littered the floor and stage. A half-naked mannequin wearing a feathered boa had been shoved into a corner. One of the overhead lights flickered as if in protest to the things it had witnessed.
She didn't need to ask what kind of private event this was. She already knew.
