Shelly
My life has been a mess for so long that I was starting to feel like I would never catch a break. I began working at Vixen a while back as a dancer. I was thrilled when I realized I could dance and not have to take all of my clothes off. The tips were great and the hours were spectacular. I’m in med school and this job gave me the ability to do my clinical work during the day, spend a little time with my son, Ryker, and then dance at night. What more could a single mom ask for? I thought I had it all figured out, thought I was going to be making great money until I realized Higgins, the owner of Vixen, wasn’t giving us one hundred percent of our tips and that the bastard was running a dirty joint. Just when I was thinking about moving on, I discovered that no one walks away from Higgins or his club. It isn’t the type of place where you work for a bit to make some good money and then say thanks, but I’m done. There were bad things happening in that place. Really bad things. I soon realized he was dealing drugs, soliciting prostitution, and there was even an attempted rape in one of the private rooms. I get the chills just thinking about it.
Then Slade walked in. From the first night I saw him I knew something was up, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I was so nervous dancing for him and his friends that night in that private room, I tripped. I couldn’t tell if the vibe was because he was some bigwig that I needed to make sure my routine was perfect for or if he was a cop. I danced for him and his boys, and when they left, I felt relief wash over me as they explained they weren’t going to report my foul up. Girls can catch a serious beating for fucking up a routine if it’s reported, and the last thing I needed was for my son to see me come home with bruises. The poor kid has been through enough.
I spent so much time trying to figure out how I was going to get out of that place, and the more I did, the more I realized I was fucked. The head dancer, Nikki, was a bitch, and had Higgins wrapped around her pretty little finger. That was fine with me. I wanted to be nowhere near the nasty bastard. That’s when I decided to bide my time. I had spoken with my sister, Brea, and we had agreed when the moment was right, we would grab Ryker and disappear like thieves in the night.
Brea and I had started looking at new places to live and a new school for me to attend so I could finish my medical degree, but then one night everything changed. It was a night like any other. I was scheduled to do my regular routines on the stage, and for the first time in a long time I had been requested for a private dance. I was a bit shocked, honestly. Not too many men requested me. Actually, no one had since Slade and his friends had seen me dance. I was so thankful when I walked into the room to see him sitting on the little sofa with his legs crossed at the ankle. I did my dance for him and then pranced down to where he was sitting. I straddled his lap for the dance he paid for. That’s when he told me what he was there for. Without even thinking, I gave him the information he needed. He promised me if I went to see this man, Detective Cooper, he would protect me, and I don’t know why, but I trusted him. It’s really hard for me to trust anyone after what my ex, Eli, did to my son and I. Anyway, I finished my time in his private room and as soon as I left, I was greeted by three dancers.
My brows shot up. “Can I help you ladies?”
They all looked me up and down. “Why did he pick you?” I shrugged. It’s true I’m not the hottest girl in the club. I have some curves and soft spots on me, unlike the others, who are all toothpicks with fake boobs. Platinum told me Higgins liked me because my hair was long and had some natural curl to it. I was basically hired because he wanted a girl for everyone’s taste, otherwise I wouldn’t really fit the typical stripper profile.
“Maybe he likes a woman with some meat on her bones.” They laughed as I pushed my way past them. I needed to be on stage in a few minutes and I didn’t have time for their petty behavior. I was about to walk into the dressing room to put on my skimpy little outfit for my next routine and that’s when I saw him. Slade’s being dragged down the hall behind me by two big bouncers. Actually, they’re really Higgins’s hired hands. The guys who did all his dirty work. My eyes went wide with fear when his connected with mine. I had a feeling he’d been busted snooping around. I closed my eyes and hurried into the room, pretending I hadn’t seen a thing. That’s when I realized I had no choice. As soon as my shift was over, I knew where to go.
Two hours later, my last routine was done and I’d had no more requests for private dances. There were plenty of dancers on, so they didn’t need me—that meant I could get out of here. I hurried off to the dressing room to change into my regular clothes. One of the dancers asked me where I was going and I told her I was done for the night. She asked me if I could stay for her, but I apologized and told her I couldn’t because I had a sick son at home. I grabbed my things and hurried out the door to my piece of shit car. I threw my stuff in the back and prayed it would start. I was a nervous wreck, and if anyone saw me they would know something’s up. I closed my eyes and turned the key—she started up without a problem. With a huge smile on my face, I pulled out of the lot. I decided to take the long route to the precinct to ensure I wasn’t being followed. The last thing I needed was for someone from the club to know I was headed to the station.
I parked the car, scanning the lot as I ran inside the building. There’s an officer sitting behind the desk, and she looked exhausted. “Excuse me, but I need to speak with Detective Cooper.”
“And you are?” The woman behind the counter looked at me like I was crazy.
“Shelly Lawson. I was just with his friend Slade, and he told me to come straight here and ask for Cooper himself.”
Her brows shot up. “What makes you think he’s here at two in the morning?” She gave me attitude.
I closed my eyes and tried to remain calm. “You don’t understand. I work at Vixen. Slade was there tonight and he told me to come here. He said Cooper would help me.”
She must have been aware of the situation over at the club because when she heard the panic in my voice, she stood up and opened the door, bringing me into a small room. “Slow down and tell me what happened.” She handed me a cup of water.
“I can’t. I’m scared. I have to talk to Cooper. He’s the only one I trust.” I have no idea who Higgins was connected with, and I was already afraid because I didn’t know if they were on to me.
She took a deep breath but walked out of the room. “I’ll be right back.” She came back a few minutes later. “He’s dealing with a situation right now, but he wants to talk to you.” She handed me the phone.
“Listen to me. I know you’re scared, but I need to have you escorted to my location. My partner, Detective Martinez, is going to pick you up and bring you to Slade’s place. He’s missing, and I’m hoping what you have to tell me will help us find him.”
I sighed. “Okay.” My raspy voice was barely audible. I was scared, and now this guy wanted me to trust him and his partner to bring me to Slade’s home. I didn’t even know where that was, but he was in trouble and I wanted to help.
I instantly texted my sister, letting her know who was picking me up and taking me to meet Detective Cooper, so if something happened she’d know who I was with. A minute later a gentleman walked into the room. He introduced himself, showed me his badge and ID, and then gently took my arm, escorting me to his waiting car. I was tucked into the back like a criminal and the thought rattled me further.
When we got to what he told me was Slade’s home, I was bombarded with questions by Detective Cooper, who also showed me his badge and I.D. “Who are you and how do you know Slade?”
“I’m Shelly Lawson. I dance at Vixen, but I’ve been trying to get out. Slade came into the club looking for information about Higgins. He knew I was afraid of him, and he told me if I helped him, then I could come straight to you, that you would help me, but I have a feeling he needs your help first.”
Cooper’s brows furrowed. “How so?”
“He requested me so we could talk in the private room, but just after we finished, I believe he was discovered. I saw two of Higgins’s guys dragging him to some back room past our changing area. Dancers are never allowed past our changing area, so I have no idea what’s back there. The music is loud, so there’s no way to hear what’s happening. I knew it couldn’t be good, but I had to finish the night or they would get suspicious. I left as soon as I could and went straight to your precinct.” My voice was shaking and I couldn’t stop fidgeting.
“Okay, good. Please calm down and take a deep breath. You’ve given us enough information for a search warrant. Are you willing to testify if we need you to?” I nodded my head. Slade and his friends were all nice to me—I wanted to help them.
“Okay, we’re going to get you a protective detail.” My eyes went wide.
“What is it?” Detective Cooper asked.
“My son is at my house with my sister. She watches him while I work.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it.” He picked up his phone and shouts into it, then asked me for my address. As he did so, I called my sister to let her know what was going on.
***
I was thrilled to hear that I was not only instrumental in helping save Slade, but Higgins was dead, which means I don’t have to testify against him and no one has to fear him. As soon as the state discovered all the tax fraud and other crimes he was committing, they took over Vixen and put it up for auction. The night I met Cooper I also met more of Slade’s family and friends. While we were waiting, we sat around talking and I had mentioned I had no idea what I was going to do for a job now. Slade’s friend Logan is the owner of Club Thrive and he has promised me a job. Logan and Mikey jumped at the opportunity to take over the club buying it immediately. He said I helped his friend and now he would help me.
He kept his promise and hired me right away. He’s been having me help with small projects around the Oasis as his assistant while it’s being flipped. This is how I finally met Mikey, the sexiest man I have ever laid eyes on. I’ve seen him around Oasis, and I swear I’ve caught him checking me out, but he hasn’t said a word to me.
I can’t help but watch as he strolls into the club wearing snug-fitting jeans, a short sleeve V-neck t-shirt, and black boots. His dark thick hair is gelled to perfection, and when our eyes meet, I find they are the brightest blue eyes I’ve ever seen. With his eyes locked on mine, he takes three large strides, stopping directly in front of me. Never breaking the trance, he holds out his hand. “Mikey,” he whispers, introducing himself. He has a smile that would light up the darkest alley.
I return his smile and hold out my hand. “Shelly.”
“Well, it is quite the pleasure to finally meet the amazing woman who’s been helping my partner get this place opened.”
My smile grows. “That I am.”
He licks his full, luscious lips. I make note that we still haven’t broken eye contact, our hands are still locked together, and there’s some serious electricity flowing between us. “I’ve heard some good things about you. Thanks for giving us a hand.”
“Trust me when I tell you I appreciate the job. If it weren’t for Logan giving me this job, I don’t know what I would have done.” A blush creeps up my cheeks as I’m brought back to reality. I’m a single mom who lives with her sister to make ends meet.
I break eye contact with him, but he instantly takes my chin, forcing me to look back into his eyes. “Can I take you to dinner?”
I grin. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea. If you’re Logan’s partner, that makes you my boss.” He laughs. “What’s so funny?”
“You’ll quickly learn I don’t care much for what others think.” His tone changes to dark and serious. “And, I tend to get what I want.”
My brows shoot up. “Why would you want me? You don’t even know me.”
“Let’s see if I got this right.” He narrows his eyes slightly. “You’re a single mom, you go to med school, and your sister lives with you to help you out. You helped the police find my boy, Slade, which eventually led to us getting this club.”
The shock is evident on my face. I laugh. “Someone’s a creeper.”
“Not a creeper, just an interested single man.” He has laughter in his voice. “I did my research, and for your information, you and I dating is no different than Logan dating Sky. She worked for him and now they’re married and have a kid.” He shrugs. “I know today’s the first time I’ve introduced myself, but I’ve had my eye on you.” He leans in closer and whispers in my ear. “I think you’re sexy as fuck.” I gasp as his warm breath glides over my ear and his masculine scent takes over my senses making me wet. Pulling back slightly, his eyes flash between my eyes and my lips. He pulls away slightly, looking into my eyes. “And I think the fact you bust your ass for your kid is amazing.”
Trying to recover, all I can manage is, “Forward much?”
“When I know what I want, I go for it.” I stare into his eyes, saying absolutely nothing. How do I handle this? He’s sexy as hell, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel a connection to this handsome man. “Dinner, Sunday night. I’ll pick you up at six.”
“What about my son?” He senses the panic in my voice.
He shrugs. “Bring him,” he responds like it’s no big deal.
I shake my head and laugh. “You’re really not going to take no for an answer, are you?”
He laughs. “Nope, and it’ll do you good to know I never do. I’ll see you Sunday at six.” And just like that he walks away.
“Fuck me,” I whisper, watching his tight ass walk toward Logan. I have to talk to my sister. There’s no way I’m taking Ryker on a first date. I can’t bring another man into his life until I know he’s for real.
***
It’s been two weeks since my first date with Mikey, and although we haven’t seen each other, we’ve spoken almost every day. He wanted me to include Ryker, but I couldn’t do it, so I explained to Mikey that I wasn’t ready for that yet. He wanted to pick me up, but I wasn’t quite ready for that either, so we met at this quiet little restaurant not far from my house. Although I could tell he wanted to ask a lot of questions, he kept the conversation light, letting me give him the info I was ready to share, which was nice because I didn’t want to freak him out with my history on the first date. We actually talked a lot about my schooling and my son. I didn’t give him too much history on Ryker, just that he’s had a rough start in life and that I didn’t know how he’d take to Mikey. He hasn’t had a man in his life since we ran and that was about three years ago. The most I learned about him is that he is seven years older than me.
Our second date he asked me when he gets to meet the little guy. I shrugged my shoulders, unsure of how I felt about him meeting my son so quickly. We finally agreed to take him to a little diner he enjoys called Mac’s on the Sunday after opening night. He’s really excited to meet him and it makes it really hard to say no. I told him that would give me a little more time to get to know him and I could talk to Ryker about it to prepare him.
***
It’s opening night and this place is going to be jamming soon. We have been busting our asses all week with training to be up to Logan and Mikey’s standard in time for this evening’s grand opening. This may be a strip club, but it has a lot of class, right down to our attire. The female cocktail waitresses are wearing white button down shirts with black pencil skirts and black high heels. The men are wearing very fitted tuxedos. There are six of us roaming the club getting things ready for the doors to open. I can feel his eyes on me and I can’t help but notice he has spent a lot more time in the club since we’ve started dating.
“Hey, Sexy.” He presses his front to my back, pinning me against the bar.
“You really plan to make it clear that I’m yours, don’t you?” I grin, looking over my shoulder.
He nibbles my ear. “Yes, I do.”
I crane my neck to look up at him, and I’m about to speak when Logan pulls our attention. “Okay, everyone gather around.” Mikey steps back, giving me just enough space to move but still staking his claim. Kendra, one of the bartenders, chuckles and fans herself. I shake my head and tune in to what Logan has to say.
“We’re about to open the doors. There’s a line down the street already, and there is a line of cars for VIPs at their entrance. We have extra bouncers, barmaids, and bartenders on tonight and this is the reason why. This place is about to hit max capacity and quick. You have all worked extremely hard this week, and now it’s time to show these good people what sets Oasis apart from the average strip club.” Everyone hoots and hollers. “Mikey, do you have anything you want to add?”
Everyone turns toward us. He slips his arm around my shoulder and says, “Nah. Let’s get this place open and kick some ass.”
“You heard the man, open the doors.”
Everyone rushes off to take their place, but before I can move, Mikey presses his lips to mine. “I’ll see you in a little bit.” I bite my lip as he rushes off to greet VIPs with Logan.
“Girl, you two are hot.” Kendra fans herself again.
“Oh shush, and fill my tray, will you?” She hands me a tray filled with champagne flutes and I take off greeting guests and offering them a drink. I’m making my way around the club when Sky comes walking over, looking gorgeous as always. She kisses me on the cheek and tells me how she heard about my date with Mikey. Apparently he told Logan, who told Sky. “Listen, we have everyone over for dinner on Monday nights. You should come with Mikey. Everyone would love to see you again.” She’s called away by Logan, but before she leaves, she tells me she looks forward to meeting Ryker at dinner on Monday night. I’m left standing there, shocked. Mikey hasn’t even asked me to go with him on Monday night. What if he’s not ready for that yet?
I need to focus on work right now. I shake off my thoughts and head back to the bar to load up my tray. As Logan said, this place is now slamming with people and there are men stripping their clothes off on the stage. The ladies are all going wild and throwing money at them. Sky did a nice job selecting the men, but if you ask me, none of them are as hot as Mikey, and I haven’t even seen him without clothes. A dirty smile flashes across my lips as I wander around dispersing drinks.
The night is finally coming to an end and the place is clearing out. It’s been a fun night. Slade proposed to Kara, the opening night was a huge success, and now it’s time to clean up so everyone can get out of here. My feet are killing me, and all I can think about is taking my shoes off.
Once the place is empty I plop myself onto a stool at the bar and peel off my shoes to stretch my feet. Mikey takes the seat next to me, he grabs my foot and begins massaging it. “Nice job tonight.”
“Thanks.” A yawn escapes me. “Listen, Sky mentioned seeing Ryker and I at dinner on Monday night, but if you’re not ready for that, I understand.” I lean on the bar with my head in my hand. “You can just tell her we couldn’t make it.”
He chuckles. “Who do you think asked her to mention it to you?”
“Then why didn’t you just say something to me?”
“I thought you would feel better about it if it came from her.” I shrug, not sure how I feel about who it came from.
Logan is walking around handing out champagne to all of the staff. He tells us to hold on as he takes a spot behind the bar where everyone can see him. “I would like to make a toast.” Everyone holds up their glasses. “Here’s to one kickass opening night, to our dear friends, Slade and Kara, for getting engaged tonight.” Everyone starts cheering, but Logan holds up his hand to quiet everyone down. “And to my good friend Mikey, for not only jumping on this journey with me, but for finally finding himself a girl.” Everyone bursts into laughter and Mikey flips him off while I shake my head and blush fifty shades of red.
When everyone finally starts going about their business, I slip on my shoes and stand from my seat by the bar. Mikey turns to me, and with a dirty grin I joke, “So, who’s the lucky girl?”
He slams my body against his. “You are.” He snickers before his lips crash down on mine.