Page 3 of Never Your Girl

“You’re cutting it close, Tate,” he says with a flash of a smile.

“Yet still technically on time.” I glance toward the bar where Randi sits with her laptop, looking like a CEO who took a wrong turn and ended up running a strip club. Her raised eyebrow speaks volumes.

After she took a chance and gave me this opportunity, she’s the last person I want to disappoint.

Once inside the club, the dim lighting and thumping music are familiar, almost comforting. A few of the girls wave as I head to the dressing room.

Two years ago, I could never have imagined this place and the people in it would feel like family, but that’s exactly what they’ve become. These girls are more like older sisters. They’ve given me the necessary skills to not only survive but thrive in this world.

Along with the one that lies outside these walls.

The dressing room is where I shed one identity before slipping into another. Each piece of Lavender Smoke’s costume feels like armor, from the black, lacy bustier, the barely-there bottoms, and the silky purple wig that turns me into someone else.

Someone who’s untouchable.

Heavy, smoky makeup follows. Since I’ve never been a girl to wear eyeshadow, blush, or lipstick, it took months of practice to perfect. Thankfully, Jade and Megan were patient teachers. The most fascinating part is watching Holland Tate fade with every stroke of the brush, replaced by the persona I’ve grown to love over the past year.

It’s what allows me to step out of my comfort zone and onto the stage three nights a week. Holland Tate wouldn’t be caught dead strutting around and taking off her clothes for a bunch of horny men.

Lavender Smoke, on the other hand, has zero issues with that.

For a price.

One that pays my tuition, rent, and groceries in full every single month.

“Looking good,” Megan says, adjusting her own wig beside me.

My phone buzzes with a message from ColdAsIce17, and something in my chest loosens. It’s ironic that the person who knows me best is someone I’ve never met.

ColdAsIce17

Just wanted to check in and see how you’re doing.

A smile tugs at my lips as I type back.

Me

I’m good. Just hustling for a living. How about you?

ColdAsIce17

The usual. Ready to run away from it all yet?

My fingers hover over the keys. With him, I don’t have to pretend.

Me

Every day. But someone’s gotta make sure the bills get paid, right?

The banter is easy, our messages laced with sarcasm, but there’s a warmth that lies beneath the surface that keeps me coming back for more.

“Holland!” Jade’s voice cuts through my thoughts. “You’re up in five.”

I shove my phone in my bag, taking one last look in the mirror. Holland Tate stares back at me for a moment before disappearing completely, replaced by someone stronger, someone who doesn’t flinch when the music starts.

Time to give them a show.

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