Page 26 of Dark Love

While the bartenders have their own choreographed form of dance, the people on the floor as a group create a visual anarchy. How can a hundred people move to the same song and not be in sync with each other, with the exception of one couple towards the edge of the group? Unlike last week, these people aren’t trying to make out in public, yet somehow their movements are way more sensual. Are they a couple out for a night on the town together?

“Your fun drink.” The bartender is back, setting a pink drink with several bright red cherries in front of me. “A Shirley Temple.”

“That looks wonderful.” I take a small sip. “It’s as good as it looks.” I slide a twenty across the bar to her. “No change.”

“Thanks.” It disappears into the tool belt around her waist.

Why didn’t I wear a fun dress to match this drink? Because pink and sparkly aren’t you. Warm colors look better with your complexion.

That sounds pathetic.

Fear.

You’re in a club. Enjoy it for as long as you can.

I set my drink down and turn to face the dancers again.

The man next to me gives me a friendly smile.

Nope. Nope. Nope. Even though he seems normal enough, I don’t even want to encourage him in the slightest. With the barest of a smile, I continue rotating until I’m facing the main part of the room with a clear view to Vex’s table.

The show doesn’t disappoint, even if the empty table does.

***

“Can I get you another drink?” the bartender asks a bit later, taking away my empty drink.

“No. That’s it for me. I think I’ll head home.” I’m not feeling so great.

“You sure? You’re not looking so hot.”

“I’m just going to go to the bathroom before I get a cab. Thank you again.” I give her a little wave, which feels completely stupid here. Then make my way into the line for the bathroom.

The music gave me such a migraine the world is spinning a bit.

Why can’t they make larger restrooms for women? The line practically crawls.

“It’s your turn.” The woman behind me taps my shoulder.

“Thanks.” I can’t remember the last time I felt this…bad… The world spins and my stomach rolls in the opposite direction. What’s wrong with…

Destroyed

Vex

At least this DJ showed up on time. No one else has today. If one more person comes into my office with a problem, I’m going to stab them.

“Vex.” Payne steps into my office.

“You must have a death wish,” I mutter under my breath.

“Who’s going to die tonight?” Payne has the nerve to laugh.

Someone. Maybe you. Though probably not Payne, since he’s my best friend. I’ll just break his nose again if he keeps irritating me. “What do you want?”

“One of the bartenders had a problem.”

“Then fix it.” Why is he making this my problem?

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