Page 3 of Day Shift

“Okay…Ana,” he managed to choke out, still blushing furiously. “School’s good. I got all A’s second semester.” He shrugged, but the note of pride in his voice was obvious. “Here’s your order: spaghetti carbonara and garlic bread. I added some tiramisu for dessert—on the house.” His eyes roamed from my bare toes up to my eyes as he handed me the bag.

“Perfect, and thank you for the sweet treat,” I said, taking it from him and letting my fingers linger on his for a moment longer than necessary. “How much do I owe you?”

“Um, it’s twenty-seven fifty,” he replied, his eyes darting around nervously.

“Here you go,” I said, handing him two twenties. “Keep the change. And good job on those grades. I’m sure your parents were happy with that.”

“Th-thank you, Ana,” he stuttered, clearly flustered by our interaction. It was amusing how nervous he always was when he brought a delivery. I loved knowing I had that effect on him. It gave my ego the boost it needed.

“Anytime, Elliot. You always know how to make a girl happy on a Friday night.” I winked at him before closing the door, leaving him standing in the hallway as my robe swished behind me.

Chuckling, I carried my dinner to the kitchen and poured myself a generous glass of red wine. The rich aroma wafted up, promising a bold flavor to accompany my meal. I took a sip, savoring the taste as it washed over my tongue.

I sat down to eat and wasted no time digging in. Twirling the pasta around my fork, I took a large bite, enjoying the salty tang of the pork within.

The bridal magazine caught my eye, and the irritation from earlier returned. I hated that I only had a little over a month of freedom left. For tonight, however, I would push those thoughts aside and lose myself in the intoxicating atmosphere of the club. And if Lucian was in the mood for a little private rendezvous, well…that would be the cherry on top.

“Let’s get this show on the road,” I whispered to myself, finishing my meal, feeling all full and warm inside. I glanced at the clock and realized I was running late. So I threw away the takeout container, shoved the tiramisu in the refrigerator, and dashed upstairs.

In my bedroom, I stood in front of my full-length mirror, pulled the towel off my hair, and let my robe fall to the floor. My dark hair cascaded down my back, still damp from the shower. During the daytime, I had to be the obedient daughter, hiding who I really was beneath layers of restraint. But now that the sun had set and the moon had taken its place, it was my time to shine.

Turning to the mirror over my dresser, I blow-dried my hair and used a curling iron to tame the waves. Then, I began applying my makeup: a smoky eyeshadow and some dramatic eyeliner. I brushed on a deep-red lipstick, which matched my burgeoning confidence. With each stroke that transformed my face, I became more powerful—more like the fierce woman I was known as at Xyst.

Next, I turned my attention to what I would wear. I pulled a slinky black dress from a hanger, the fabric shimmering enticingly in the dim light. The plunging neckline showcased my very average cleavage, making it appear fuller than it was, while the hem stopped just below my butt, leaving little to the imagination. As I slipped into the dress, the silky material caressed my skin and hugged my curves. I wriggled my feet into a pair of sky-high stiletto heels that made my legs look endless and gave me an air of self-assurance.

With one last glance at the mirror, I grabbed my purse and headed downstairs.

Leaning against the kitchen counter, I pulled out my phone and ordered an Uber. While I waited for my ride, my mind drifted to Lucian again. Shivers went down my spine as I thought of how his strong hands always gripped my hips while his deep, breathy moans filled my ears. I found myself growing impatient for this night to begin. I had to relish my independence and live life to the fullest while I still had the chance.

A few minutes later, the Uber pulled up to the curb in front of my steps. I flew out of the apartment and slid into the backseat, mentally preparing myself for the frenzied pace of the club.

Xyst was my one indulgence, a slap in the face to the future laid out for me. It was where I traded whispers with the city’s elite, where I was more than just a tactic in my family’s strategy. My role at the club, the thrill of the gamble, the dance of seduction—it was me at my most alive. And tonight, like most nights, I was embracing that defiance. It was the only piece of my life that was truly mine, and I’d fight tooth and nail to keep it that way.

I was a boss lady at Xyst, ruling over a domain of nocturnal secrets. And for a few precious hours, I’d forget about the chains waiting to drag me back into my daytime reality.

Chapter two

Isat nestled in the backseat of the Uber, tapping my fingers on my knee. The city lights flashed by, painting my skin in a kaleidoscope of colors.

“Take a right here, and make a loop around the block so you can let me off in front of Club Xyst,” I directed the driver, not wanting to cross the street when he let me out. The anticipation of stepping into the club was like a heady cocktail that never lost its kick. My little black dress clung to me like a second skin, and in these high heels, I felt invincible.

The car took a sharp right before continuing on the same path I’d taken too many times to count. It took me back to the first time I’d walked into the place. God, how nervous I’d been. It was back when I had just started working at the Roosevelt Library. I had already been feeling suffocated by the monotony of my daily routine and was looking for something to challenge me. Scrolling through job ads on one of the city’s local news sites one night, I’d happened upon an unusual listing. By the time I’d finally applied, I’d read the ad so many times that I knew it by heart. Unlock the Night: Join the Xyst Team Now—that was the headline that had caught my attention by sheer chance. The unusual ad had continued: Are you craving excitement beyond the ordinary? Xyst, the city’s most exclusive underground venue, is searching for charismatic and daring individuals to join our elite team. Our club members are the crème de la crème of society, indulging in nights filled with unparalleled luxury, hidden gambles, intoxicating rhythms, and mesmerizing encounters. We Seek: Individuals with a flair for drama, a passion for the nocturnal lifestyle, and those who can keep a secret. Become part of something more than just a job. Become part of the Xyst legacy. Are you ready to unlock the door?

It had piqued my curiosity. And, sick and tired of being the good, obedient daughter everyone expected me to be, I’d applied. Little did I know then that it would change my life forever. Working at Club Xyst had opened up an entirely new world for me, full of excitement and independence. Eventually, I’d covertly used my trust-fund money to buy into the operation, and I hadn’t looked back since.

“Thanks for the ride,” I said as the car pulled up outside the club’s entrance. I stepped out onto the sidewalk, only a few yards from the roped line where people waited to get in. Private members, as well as those who had registered online, could bypass the guy at the door. Anyone else had to wait in line until there was space available.

Music spilled out onto the street as I approached the door. Slade, our bouncer, greeted me with a grin. “Ah, our queen has arrived,” he said with a wink. His towering presence made him perfect for keeping unwanted guests at bay, but he had a soft side that only those who knew him ever saw.

“Watch it, Slade,” I replied playfully. “You’ll give me a big head.”

“You’re looking heavenly as always,” he said, moving to open the door for me while guiding a gentleman to the side with an outstretched arm.

“Watch out, or I might just start believing you,” I teased him, returning his smile.

“Whoa, who’s this angel?” a man standing nearby asked, eyeing me up and down.

“Sorry, mate,” Slade replied, placing a protective hand on my lower back. “She’s way out of your league. The lady may look like an angel, but she’s wicked like the devil.”

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