Page 106 of Magic or Madness

“Fuck, Pep. You didn’t have to,” I say, pulling her in for a hug.

Months ago, I never imagined a girl like Pepper becoming someone I depended on, let alone enjoyed being around, but she completely won me over, and is one of the best friends I’ve ever had.

“Alright, fools. To the van,” Max says, his hand outstretched against the glass door, holding it open for us all like a true chauffeur.

“Max, our hero!” Oliver teases, and I shake my head, thanking him as I pass by, earning me a slight smile and a nod.

Ever since his sisters’ birthday, he’s been reserved, but I feel closer to him after the pain he carries was unveiled. He seems mysterious, jerky, and controlling on the outside, but deep down, he’s hurting just like the rest of us, if not more.

“Anyone want to tell me where we’re going?” I shout, but nobody answers, keeping their focus on anything but me.

I can’t stand not knowing things, and it is starting to grind on my nerves, but I let it roll off my shoulders, knowing how much effort Ozzy put into this day.

“Hey,my beautiful girl, relax. We’ll be there soon,” he whispers, squeezing my thigh.

“You’ve made this such a wonderful birthday, baby, I can’t thank you enough.” I kiss his cheek, teasing his lower lip with my thumb.

“Thank me after the festivities are over, Bambi, or at least while they’re still going on,” he laughs, and my confusion is at an all-time high.

Finally, the van pulls up to a building that looks dim-lit and secretive. The sign out front saysCrescendo, and although I’ve lived here for two years, I’ve never heard of it.

“Alright, we’re here!” Max shouts, and everyone’s hushed whispers become loud cheers as we all pile out of the van.

“This is so exciting,” Pepper whispers, nudging between me and Cami and looping our arms together.

I’m still clueless, so I offer a weak smile and follow everyone inside, where the bouncer immediately checks our IDs.

“Birthday girl I see.” He motions at me, handing my license back while his eyes trail up and down my body.

I can feel the protective urge crawl over Ozzy, and his arm instantly drapes over my shoulder, keeping me close. I can’t fight the smile that escapes, knowing how much he hates it when men ogle me like perverts.

“Enjoy,” the bouncer says, opening the dark oak doors.

Finally, I know what kind of club we’re in, and my jaw hits the floor.

It’s asex club.

Not a strip club, but a place where people come to explore their fantasies, kinks, and are free to express themselves as theyplease. I’ve heard about these places, butneverthought I’d be inside one.

I take a moment to glance around, and the walls are painted a deep chestnut brown color, while all the decor and lighting are a shade of maroon, encompassing the feeling of desire that engulfs you when walking in.

“Surprise!” The crew yells, and I shake my head at them all, my mind completely blown away.

Of all the guesses I could’ve had, this wouldn’t have made the cut. Not because I’m a prude, but because I genuinely had no idea places like these werereal.

“A sex club, really? This is quite the place to spend a birthday.” I laugh, and Ozzy kisses my cheek.

“Come on, Bambi, lighten up. There’s a lot more to be discovered than just the main room,” he whispers, but I shake him off, his read on me totally wrong.

“I’m light! This is the coolest place I’ve ever seen, look at those women. They’re dancing without a care in the world, feeling worshiped by the clients – it’s a place of freedom,” I say softly, my gaze fixated on the main stage, and the dancers occupying it.

“Boundaries?” Oliver clears his throat, and all attention turns to him.

“We’ll take privacy,” Ozzy says, and Lex nods in agreement.

“You can watch me all you want,” Cami interjects, and Oliver gives her a devilish grin.

“I’m sticking by the stage.” Journey walks away from us all, as if his plans are more important than ours.

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