Page 21 of Daddy Sees Snakes

I've lost track of how many drinks I've had, but it's enough to make the world spin pleasantly around me.

I swallow hard, my throat suddenly dry.

I'm forever thinking of Iris.

She looks like sin personified, a temptation I'm desperate to taste.

But I can't because she's not mine.

***

I walk into the club at eight p.m. I'm dressed in a suit, looking more like a mob boss than I should, but I have to blend in.

If Lyon sees me coming, he'll have his boys throw me out.

So, I've gotta look the part.

"Welcome to Satin Dreams," the bouncer says, stepping aside to let me in.

"Thanks," I grunt, brushing past him.

The interior of the club is dimly lit, the air heavy with the scent of alcohol and cigarettes.

Soft music drifts from hidden speakers, creating a sensual ambiance.

Men and women are scattered around the room, their bodies pressed close as they dance.

This is the scene I've been waiting for.

I make my way to the bar, ordering a whiskey neat.

As I wait for my drink, I survey the crowd.

There are plenty of beautiful women here, but none can compare to Iris.

Her curves, her smile, her everything.

She's the most gorgeous woman I've ever seen, and I'm determined to get her out of my system.

The bartender slides my drink across the counter and I nod in thanks, taking a long sip.

The liquor burns, but it's a welcome distraction.

My eyes scan the room again, settling on a curvaceous blonde near the stage.

Her skin is smooth and unblemished, her hair falling in soft waves around her face.

Her eyes are blue, deep pools of sapphire, and her lips are full and pouty.

She's beautiful, and exactly the kind of woman I need tonight.

I push off the barstool and approach her, my eyes never leaving hers.

"Hello," I say, leaning against the stage. "I'm Viper."

"Viper?" she echoes, her eyebrows raising in surprise.

"That's right."

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