Chapter 7

As we walk into the dimly lit backstage area, the air is thick with the smell of hairspray and perfume. In the corner, a group of women huddle around a mirror, each applying their own makeup with deft strokes. Some are smudging on thick black eyeliner, while others focus on layering red lipstick.

A woman in a glittering costume is bent over, lacing up her boots. Her fingers move quickly as she expertly looping and tying the strings. She looks up briefly, catching my eye with a knowing smile before returning her attention to the task at hand.

"My stage name is Candy. My real name is Florence." She smiles holding out a hand for me to take.

"Lilly-Ann, nice to meet you." I return her smile and add. “Tell me about Lorenzo?"

"Oh, well, his a mystery. All I know is that he owns this place."

"No last name?" I ask, she just pulls her shoulders up. "Who cares about last names, his hot." She smirks elbowing me in my ribs.

I cannot disagree with that, but why would Rayon think his auctioning wo