Page 23 of Stabby Little

“You can say that again.” Constantine stares at me earnestly. “And you already know Gianluca's a doctor, so he can patch up the damage Benedetto's cooking inflicts. We have the best of both worlds.”

“Want another drink?” Constantine glances at his home bar.

I nod. “That'd be great.”

After mixing me a fresh gin and tonic, we migrate to the balcony. A sunset overlooks the harbor in Chelsea. Barges drift down the water, sending ripples to the shore. A seaborne breeze blows my hair back as I rest my arms on the warm balcony railing.

“I have something to tell you.”

I turn to Constantine. “Go for it.”

“A new boy sent in an application to the club.” Constantine lowers his voice. “We're hosting private rooms Saturday nights starting next weekend and we think he's perfect.”

“I'm glad to hear that.” I sip my drink. “Although I don't know why you're telling me.”

Constantine places his hand on mine. “It's been a long time since you've played at the club.”

“I have a lot on my plate right now.” I shake my head. “Besides, I'm too focused on one thing.”

“Your son's friend's disappearance?”

I nod. “I'm not in the mood to play.”

Constantine squeezes my hand. “This will give you a much-needed break. We're having our first-ever private room event next Saturday night. It's a masquerade ball so you won't need to show your face.”

I grit my teeth. “How do the private rooms work?”

“You sit in the room until your date shows up. He'll be in a mask, too, so you don't have to worry about getting to know him. He's not required to have sex with you but he'll perform other favors for a tip.”

“I don't have money to spare.” This is a lie.

“I'll comp your room. You'll get free drinks and as much time with this boy as you want. He only sent in a shirtless picture, but I promise he's your type.”

“How old is he?”

“His application says twenty-one. We'll vet his ID, but I'm confident you two will get along. He's the type of boy you and Linda used to include in your threesomes.”

I sigh in defeat. “I'll give it a shot, but don't expect me to stay long. I don't even know if I can get an erection these days.”

“Don't talk yourself out of it.” Constantine releases his grip on my hand. “I remember when you and Linda used to play for hours. All you need is the right boy to get you going.”

Constantine and I chat for a little longer. He asks me if I’ve gotten tested recently and I tell him that I have. My results came back negative for everything. I ask if the boy he wants to hook me up with will get tested, and he assures me yes. They test all their boys and require them to take PrEP if they work at the club regularly to ensure everyone’s safety. They prescribe this policy for all members: regular testing and PrEP. By law, they can’t enforce members to take PrEP, but they still require it whenever they bring in outside entertainment. The more you protect yourself, the better.

That's when my phone buzzes.

Jagger:Someone murdered one of Michael's men at Rock last night

Me:Rock?

Jagger:A bar. A young college student went into the bathroom after him and the next person who entered found his body

Me:A college student. You're out of your fucking mind

Jagger:Michael's on edge

Me:Why

Jagger:He doesn't need this shit. He's preparing for his niece's wedding

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