Chapter 2

I sat all my things down and walked to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of water. I took a small drink and let the coolness of the water slowly trickle down my throat. I took a few deep breaths and walked to stand in front of my mirror. I looked at myself and took another deep breath, telling myself that everything would be okay. Once I was composed, I changed into my glitzy bodysuit that had rhinestones all along the nude colored fabric. I put on my glittered elevated pole shoes and touched up my lipstick. As I admired my reflection in the mirror, I added a few more sparkly accessories to complete my dazzling ensemble. 

“Emberleigh, you’re next on stage!” I heard my name being called by Katherine and made my way to the backstage area. 

“Are you good to do a double?” Katherine asked me.

“Yeah, that shouldn’t be a problem.” I responded.

“Good, Karly had someone ask for a private dance. The others are already up on stage. It’s early so it shouldn’t be too bad.” Katherine smiled at me. “That’s gorgeous by the way.” Katherine motioned to my entire outfit. 

“Thank you.” I replied with a smile as I heard the announcer announce my stage name.

“Welcome to the stage, Crystal.” The announcer's voice was deep and smooth, filling the room.

I assumed my position and the music began to play. The audience's eyes were fixed on me as the curtains in front of me opened up, and the lights shone down upon me. I captivated the attention of gentlemen from around the room with my graceful routine. Money was being scattered around the stage. As each person placed money down, I gracefully made my way to them, performing a captivating dance for a moment before moving on to the next. 

The thrill of the performance fueled my movements, and I could feel the energy of the room pulsating around me. Every step and twirl seemed to cast a magical spell over the audience, drawing them deeper into my captivating dance. I gracefully ascended the pole, spinning with precision to reach its highest point. The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as I defied gravity, deftly maneuvering my body with agility and grace. The ethereal music swirled around me, amplifying the enchantment of the moment, as I stretched my arms towards the heavens, embracing the euphoria of the performance.

As I was in the midst of my dance, I sensed a gaze upon me that defied any description. I hadn't noticed them entering the club. Curiosity ignited within me, urging me to catch a glimpse of the mysterious figure who had captivated my attention. I turned gracefully, my eyes locking with those of a mesmerizing stranger standing near the entrance. Their piercing gaze seemed to penetrate my very soul, sending shivers down my spine. We stood there, unable to tear our eyes away from each other, as if an invisible force held us in a trance. It was as if the entire club had emptied out, and I was only dancing for him.

When the music ended, I walked off the stage and back behind the curtain. Before the curtain came to a close I took another glance at the way too handsome man. I sat down in front of my mirror and took a sip of my water. 

“Hey. So I know you’re on break, but a gentleman is pretty adamant about getting a private dance from you.” Katherine was standing behind me.

“Dang. I need at least a ten-minute breather.” I complained.

“Yeah, I know. I would have told him you could not be bothered and needed a break except...” Katherine’s voice trailed off.

“Except what?” I asked her.

“It’s Alpha Maximus.” She sighed.

“Shit. Of course, it is. They’re here early then.” I sighed. “Can you tell him I need ten minutes?”

“I’ll tell him. I don’t know if he will like it or not. Maybe I will give him and his group a couple of bottles free of charge?” She pondered.

“I would get it cleared with Phillip.” I told her.

“He already said whatever they want, they get. So I am sure it will be fine.” She waved her hand through the air. “Ten minutes. He will be in room three.”

“Ten minutes, room three. Got it.” I said back. I leaned back into my chair drinking the rest of my water. I removed my glittery pole shoes and replaced them with silver glittered stilettos. I touched up my makeup and my hair before making my way to room three.

 As I walked down the hallway, I could feel my heart pounding with anticipation. The click of my heels against the hard floor only added to the excitement. With my heart pounding, I paused for a moment to gather my courage before turning the doorknob.