Lacey was not a drinker by nature. She wasn’t against the practice and didn’t go out of her way to avoid drinking, but most of the time she much preferred a nice cup of oolong or cocoa depending on the season. But there were times when a girl needed something a little stronger to relax. Plus, it would be good for her research. Bars were popular no matter how big or small the town and it provided valuable insight on that community. So there she was, drinking her strawberry daquiri and feeling out of place. She had visited Asteria countless times over the years when she was younger, but it was different as an adult. Even in the nicest small towns, outsiders could feel misplaced and unable to fit in. She was lucky that she had people to help her around town. Just as she was about to call it a night and head back to her car, a tall and intimidating man strode up to her table. Fantastic. Before she could think of what to do he was leaning over, giving her a wide smile and purposely blocking her way to the entrance of the bar. Lacey nearly coughed at the strong scent of alcohol on his breath. “Hey there,” he greeted, tilting his head in an attempt to be charming. Her body stiffened beside him as a natural reaction to her discomfort. Things like this were one of several reasons Lacey didn’t go to bars. She was a small woman, relying on social skills to get her out of situations instead of strength. All she needed to do was make a quick excuse and run out to her car. “Hi. Um, I was actually just about to leave if you could let me through.” As if it was going to be that easy.