Chapter 30: Performing for the devil

~ Avelyn ~

The music hit first.

A slow, decadent rhythm, heavy on bass, like a heartbeat amplified and stretched into something sultry. Then the lights followed, a beams of violet sweeping across the stage, striking the polished floor beneath my bare feet. It gleamed like glass, slick and dangerous, every step a reflection waiting to betray me.

I forced myself to breathe. My emerald dress clung to my skin, the slit scandalously high and the fabric shimmering beneath the lights. The audience’s roar melted into a low hum in my ears. I could feel their eyes on me, greedy, expectant, daring me to give them more.

So I did.

I stepped into the center of the spotlight, letting the beat guide the sway of my hips. My hand skimmed down the slit of my dress, brushing my thigh as if I were teasing myself for their benefit. A wave of whistles cut through the room. Somewhere in the blur, champagne glasses froze midair, conversations stilled.

The bass deepened. I twirled slowly, letting the silk flar