In the dark

Claudia was very grateful to have the ropes removed from her wrists. "Listen guys. That deal went south before I even got there. I swear to you I'm telling the truth. There were cops all over the place when I got there. That's why I was a no show. The money is in a safe place. I didn't want to get caught with it in case I was spotted."

"Why didn't you just tell us that from the beginning?" asked a curious Abby.

"When did you two give me a chance? I mean, you bagged my head, kidnapped me, tied me up, and threatened me with a baseball bat. By the way, that bat's worth a fortune. Where did you ever get a Hank Aaron autographed Louisville Slugger?"

Nadia looked at the bat appraisingly, "Looks like it's Antiques Roadshow, or bust for this baby! Thanks for telling me." Then she turned her attention back to Claudia. "Now I'm willing to believe your story, but we'll have to get the money, and take it back to the Boss Lady. That would be proof enough you're not trying to pull a fast one on us."

"Well, I'm willing to do that, as soon as it gets light out."

"Why don't we all try to get some sleep now?" suggested Abby. "We can all share this bed. I think it's big enough. It might be a tight fit, but we could all get cozy together."

"Just no funny stuff, Abby. I'm not in the mood for it," Nadia forewarned her.

"You're never in the mood!" said a very dejected Abby. "Then Claudia can sleep in between us."

"Sure," Nadia rolled her eyes. "You can finger Claudia all you want."

"Well, I'd rather be fingered than hit with a Hank Aaron limited edition," Claudia admitted.

And so the three girls got in bed together, still fully clothed. Nadia took the outside of the bed, and held on to Hank Aaron. Claudia, of course, was in the middle, with Abby spooning her.

"You don't mind if I finger you, do you?" came Abby's voice in a low whisper.

"Not at all," came Claudia's answer. "It would be the best thing that happened to me all day."

"Just keep it down!" retorted Nadia. "I am trying to get some sleep."