CHAPTER SEVEN

AMARA'S POV****

I quickly went into the changing room to change into my stage dress. 

Yeah, another day, same routine, same men watching me like I exist only for their eyes. Life's so unfair. I wish I could just—

“Amara! Someone is here to see you, Guess who,” Davina sing-said. Looking all excited. That made me smile.

“Who is here?” I asked curiously.

“I said guess, Amara, not ask.”

“Well, you'd have to tell me, I can't think of anyone right now.”

“You're boring,” she rolled her eyes. “It's Jack. He's requesting for you, he wants to see you.”

“Jack? He never gives up, does he?” I said.

“I mean, he's blonde, cute, tall, and has a nice physique, probably good in bed,” she teased. “You should be over the moon that a man like that is interested in you. Babe I'd jump at that opportunity if I found one.” I chuckled.

“I mean, I like him. But… I don't know.”

“Just give it a shot. Go see him. He's out at the bar.” 

“Alright, I'll be back quickly.” I moved to the door.

“Take your time love, I've got you.” She winked.

“You're so cringe,” I whispered to her before I left.

I moved towards the bar, eyes searching until it settled on Jack. We locked eyes. He stood up, smiling so hard. That warmed my heart. He's so simple, nice. I like him though. He's very attractive. But… I don't really feel butterflies, well… I really should give him a chance. 

“Hey, Amara. You look beautiful tonight.”

“Thank you. You don't look bad yourself.” He nodded.

“What brought you here?” I asked. “You brought me here, Amara.” He said, like it's the most obvious thing in the world. 

I giggled.

“Ummm… that's good to know. I would have loved to stay a while but work is calling.” 

“Yeah. Sure. I just wanted to ask you out on a date. I know you're busy with work and all. But please, just let me have you for tomorrow by 8pm. I'll pick you up at your house.” He pleaded. “Amara, I just want to treat you to a meal.”

His British accent peaks out every time he says my name. I should agree with him, since I've been declining every time he asks.

“But… I kinda have to work tomorrow, Jack. I don't know if it's possible—”

“Amara, please. Just an hour or so of your time is all I ask. Just for tomorrow.”

“Okay. I'll make it work.” I told him.

“Thank you, milady,” he bowed a bit. Gosh, he's dramatic. “I'll make sure you have the best time.”

“I'm looking forward to it then. So 8pm tomorrow. Noted.” I said, turning around to leave.

“Just text me your address, I'll pick you up at home.” He offered.

“Oh, no. You don't have to bother. I'll just meet you there.”I declined immediately. I don't want him having that much access to me. I mean I don't even know him.

“No, I'll pick you up. That's what gentlemen do.” He insisted. “I can't have you going on your own, Amara.”

“It's fine, really.”

Ha paused, studying me for a second.

“Alright,” he said finally. “I'll see you there.”

“Yeah, Thank you.” 

“Bye.” I said, turning away.

I quickly went into the dressing room as it was my turn to dance, I quickly put on my mask. Well that is the dress for today. Even though I'm not fond of my job, I'm pretty good at it. I went up to the stage. Did what I knew best and as usual, they all stood up applauding. I left the stage to the dressing room to change.

I really need to talk to Davina about tomorrow. I can't exactly leave my job for a date. I've got bills to pay. I can't afford to get fired. I sat in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection. Dorian. The things he made me feel during the private dance with him—I'd never felt them before, not even with Jack.

“Babe,” Davina called, breaking me from my trance.

“When will your mind stop leaving the world to wherever it goes? I guess you should start taking your body along.” She teased.

“I don't go anywhere, I'm always here.” I said, that made her raise an eyebrow. I ignored her, getting ready to change the subject. I can't handle my situation being the subject of our conversation today. I haven't even told her about Dorian. Well… what's there to tell.

“So, Jack, umm… he wants to take me out on a date. Tomorrow by 8pm,” I told her. 

“Really. Y'all are finally taking a step,” she grinned so hard.

“No, it's not like that. It's just a meal.”

“Uh-huh”

“Davina,” I nudged her.

“I believe you,” she said sarcastically.

“Whatever,” I rolled my eyes. “But I don't think I can go, I have work tomorrow. I can't exactly leave.”

“What! Common girl, I'll cover for you. You know I'm always here, right.” She said, “I just want you to be happy. Go have fun. You deserve it more than anyone.”

“Thank you. Really, I appreciate it. I hope I'm not an inconvenience.” I pouted.

“No, you're not, my cute little baby,” she squeezed my cheek.

“Davina, that hurt,” I pushed her slightly. We were laughing so hard. I'm so grateful to have her in my life. She somehow keeps me going. Like I can handle this thing, called life.

We finally stopped laughing and talked about little things, what I should wear to the date and all. My mind drifted to Dorian, but I knew better to push it far away from my mind. 

I should focus on my date with Jack. Tomorrow mattered. At least, it should.