“There is another benefit, although it’s not advertised as such.”
“Which is?”
“The United States outlawed it specifically because of the added benefit. In other words, whoever tried breaking into this cabinet knew exactly what they were doing.”
Chapter 21
“Fire Up is potent enough to give users a buzz,” Giselde said.
Millie grimaced. “According to Arturo Bautista, his brother, Angelo, the employee who was fired and escorted off the ship in Miami, had a drug problem.”
“I thought he was being sent home,” Camille said.
“Last I heard, his case was being turned over to the FBI. Meanwhile, Arturo is still working.”
“So maybe he has a drug problem,” Camille theorized. “And blamed it on his brother.”
“Great,” Millie groaned. “Which means there’s a good possibility we still have a potentially problematic crew member on board.”
Giselde unlocked the cabinet and removed a bottle of Fire Up. “You want to try it?”
“I’ve always been curious,” Camille said. “It takes only a sip?”
“Only one. This is our sample bottle.” Giselde shook the contents. She plucked a small plastic pill cup from the shelf, poured a tiny amount, and handed it to Camille. “Bottoms up.”
She took a tentative sip and abruptly stopped. “Are you sure this is safe?”
“One hundred percent. Although some people react differently, this small of a dose will only give you a brief energy spike.”
“I find it hard to believe it only takes a single sip.” Millie held her breath while Camille tipped the cup and swallowed the contents.
The others grew quiet, observing her reaction.
“How do you feel?” Gloria finally asked.
“Tingly.”
“Like you could run a marathon?”
“Not a marathon. More like I had a double espresso with a shot of whipped cream. It’s actually quite tasty.”
“You sampled the mixed berry one.” Giselde reached for a clean cup. “Anyone else?”
Millie and Gloria looked at each other.
“I can always use an energy boost,” Millie said. “Are you sure it’s legal?”
“In every country except the US,” Giselde said. “I’ve read the studies. The number one ingredient is ginseng, mixed in with some other stuff.”
“Have you tried it?”
“Of course. I’m jacked up enough so I limit my intake.” She poured two more samples.
“As long as there isn’t anything illegal in it.” Millie took the cup from her and handed the other to her cousin.
“Bottoms up.” Gloria downed the contents.
Giselde watched them closely. “How do you feel?”
