Page 46 of Daddy Sees Snakes

The second I shut the door, Viper’s peeling off in the opposite direction.

I’m guessing he has some pressing business matters.

Rosa approaches me the second I walk through the doors, a purposeful stride in her step. "Iris, we should talk in your office," she says, dark eyes serious.

"Wait, I have an office?" I ask, dumbfounded.

When did that happen?

I glance around the luxurious club interior as if an office door will suddenly materialize.

Rosa nods, a small smile playing at her lips. "Yes, we both do. You're the General Manager now, and I've been promoted to Assistant Manager. Didn't Viper tell you?"

I shake my head, trying to process this unexpected development. "No, he mentioned some things, but mostly about the house all the girls are moving into. He didn't get into specifics about my role here."

"Right, the house will be your main responsibility," Rosa confirms as she leads me down a hallway I've never explored before. "But you still hold top authority at the club too. You and I, we'll be partners in this. Lean on me whenever you need."

She stops in front of a glossy black door, a gold plaque engraved with "Iris Ashton, General Manager".

Holy shit.

This is real.

How did he get a plaque so damn fast?

Rosa gestures for me to do the honors.

With a trembling hand, I twist the knob, pushing the door open.

I inhale sharply.

The office is sleek and modern, all crisp white and bold artwork.

A glass desk commands the center, my name etched across the front.

I move forward in a daze, trailing my fingertips over the smooth desktop.

I have a sudden urge to pinch myself.

How is this my life now?

"Viper wanted you to have the best," Rosa says softly from the doorway. "You've earned this, Iris. You're going to be amazing."

Gratitude and anxiety war within me.

I turn to face her, leaning back against the desk for support. "I'm not sure I'm cut out for this, Rosa. It's all happening so fast. I was just a tattoo artist…and now this.”

She walks up to me, placing a warm hand on my shoulder. "You're a natural leader and Viper can see that. Anyone can see you’re the type of woman who takes charge and has no problem putting anyone in their place. Plus, you’ve got support here. Whatever you need, I’ll help you."

I exhale a shaky breath, trying to absorb her reassurances.

She's right.

I can do this.

I have to do this, for myself and for them.

"Thank you," I say, injecting as much conviction as I can muster. "I couldn't ask for a better assistant manager. Let's fucking do this."

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