Joahna Moriarty stepped into Hell's Kitchen, the familiar warmth and inviting ambiance wrapping around her like a comforting embrace. The soft glow of candlelight, the murmur of conversation, and the scent of delicious food in the air were a stark contrast to the cold, sterile environment of the police station she had just come from. She made her way to the bar, where Elise was deftly mixing a cocktail.
"Detective Moriarty," Elise greeted her with a charming smile as she set down a perfectly prepared drink for another customer. "What can I get you tonight?"
"Just a bourbon, neat," Joahna replied, taking a seat at the bar. She paused, then added, "And, Elise, I wanted to apologize for the other night. I asked a lot of questions, and I know I might have come off as... intrusive."
Elise's eyes sparkled with feigned warmth. "No need to apologize, Detective. You're just doing your job. I understand."
