They approached Eliza and Jannie's table, their eyes fixed on the two women. Eliza, still engrossed in the show, didn't notice them at first. Jannie, however, sensed their approach and straightened in her seat, her expression shifting from relaxed to guarded.
"Good evening, ladies," the bearded man said, his voice smooth and practiced. "Mind if we join you?"
Eliza looked up, startled by the sudden intrusion. She glanced at Jannie, unsure of what to do. Jannie remained calm, her eyes locking onto the man's. "We're not looking for company," she said firmly.
The man chuckled, a sound that held no warmth. "Come on now, no need to be unfriendly. We just want to enjoy the show together."
Another man, shorter but with a predatory gleam in his eyes, leaned closer to Eliza. "You seem a bit out of place here, darling. First time?"
Eliza's grip tightened on her drink, her earlier excitement now tinged with nervousness. "Yes," she admitted quietly.
