"A Web of Deceit"

The air in the tavern seemed to thicken as Hailey leaned in, a mischievous glint in her eye. "I've been thinking, Lord Ravenswood," she said, her voice low and conspiratorial. "With Jasmine's... unique skills, I believe we could make a profitable venture together." Lord Ravenswood's eyes sparkled with interest as he turned to Jasmine. "Oh? And what makes you think Jasmine here has skills that would be of use to me, Hailey?" Jasmine felt a sense of trepidation as Hailey's grip on her arm tightened. "Jasmine has a talent for... finding things," Hailey said, her eyes darting to Jasmine's face. "Things that are hidden, that are lost. I think she could be a great asset to your... endeavors, Lord Ravenswood." Lord Ravenswood's eyes locked onto Jasmine's, and she felt a shiver run down her spine. "Is that true, Jasmine?" he asked, his voice low and husky. "Do you have a talent for finding things?" Jasmine hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But something about Hailey's expectant gaze made her want to rebel. "I can try," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I make no promises." Hailey's face darkened, and she leaned in close to Jasmine. "That's not what I told him, Jasmine," she hissed. Lord Ravenswood's eyes narrowed, and he set his mug down on the table. "I see," he said, his voice dripping with disappointment. "Well, perhaps we can discuss this further another time." The rest of the evening was a blur as Jasmine's anxiety grew. She knew she had made a mistake, and Hailey's anger was palpable. As they made their way back to the castle, Jasmine's heart sank. She knew she was in trouble. As soon as they stepped into Hailey's room, Hailey slammed the door shut behind them and turned to face Jasmine. Her eyes blazed with fury, and her face was inches from Jasmine's. "What was wrong with you tonight?" she spat, her voice low and menacing. Jasmine took a step back, but Hailey was too quick. She grabbed Jasmine's wrists and pinned her to the bed, her grip like a vice. Jasmine cried out in pain as Hailey's fingers dug into her skin. "Do you want me to hurt you?" Hailey threatened, her eyes glinting with a malevolent light. Jasmine whimpered, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. "Hailey, please," she begged, trying to wriggle free. But Hailey's grip only tightened, and Jasmine felt a wave of fear wash over her. What had she done to deserve this? And what did Hailey plan to do to her now?