Shane rolled to a stop in front of the bar, and shut off his Harley. It had been a long ride from south of San Antonio all the way back to the clubhouse. He’d enjoyed the ride, but his ass was almost asleep, and he had to pee like a racehorse. Yawning, he dropped his helmet on his bike, stretched his arms wide, and walked inside. The contrast between bright Texas sun and darkened bar interior made him blink; he paused just inside the door until his eyes had adjusted.
Raven glanced over, and lifted a hand in greeting. “Hey, gorgeous!”
“Hey, yourself!”
He nodded at Coke, who was sitting at the end of the bar, nursing a beer and reading the paper. How he managed to see anything in such low light baffled Shane.
Sarah walked over to welcome him. “What can I get you, Shane?”
“Beer’s fine, thanks.” He flashed her a quick smile. “I’m going to hit the head, but I’ll be right back.”
“Beer’ll be waiting, honey,” she replied before turning back to chat with Raven again.
When he returned, he stopped briefly to ask Coke, “Boss in?”
“Nope.” The big man’s attention remained fixed on his newspaper.
“Any idea when he’ll be back?”
Coke lifted one shoulder in a vague shrug. “Supposed to be back sometime tomorrow.”
“Okay.” Lobo was probably meeting with their suppliers about upcoming shipments, and he took security seriously; that was one of the things Shane liked most about him. Only a few select members would know his plans. It stood to reason that if Coke knew, he wouldn’t be allowed to admit it.
Raven’s inviting smile warmed when he joined her at the bar. “Where you been, Shane?”
He settled down on the adjoining seat with a heavy sigh. “Nowhere in particular. Just out riding.”
Raven eyed him shrewdly. “Yeah, I’ll bet.”
“Hey, would I lie to you?” he retorted, and took a long swallow of his beer.
“Yes,” she instantly replied. “That’s okay, though. You’re good-looking enough that I always forgive you.”
He hadn’t planned on draining his beer so quickly, but it was fucking hot and he was thirsty. He released a long sigh of satisfaction when it slid down smoothly, and motioned for another. “What would your husband say if he heard you talking that way to me?” he teased Raven.
She laughed, and lightly kicked his shin. “Since he’s still in jail, it’s not likely he’ll hear about it. Besides, we have an understanding.”
Shane nodded. “Yeah, he told me when we were locked up together. Cool arrangement for you. Not so much for him.”
Her husband had been jailed six months before Shane had been released. The club had pulled some strings, and they’d been assigned to the same cell. Since he’d be in jail for a long time on a variety of charges, Raven and he had reached an unusual understanding…she could have sex anytime she wanted, but only with certain members of the club.
Shane was one of those members, but he hadn’t yet accepted any of her numerous advances. He knew she’d want more than just sex, and he wasn’t ready for that complication. He was definitely attracted to her, and they’d been a couple before Shane had gone to prison, but she’d gotten married while he was serving time. That left him conflicted, since he genuinely liked and respected her husband.
It was best, he supposed, to admit that time had moved on for both of them, and leave it at that.
Raven wasn’t so easily dissuaded, though. “If he told you, then why aren’t you back in my bed?” she teased with a sensual smile. “I’m sure you’d enjoy it.”
“I know I would,” he admitted, winking at her, then became serious. “But that’s the problem. We can’t just be fuck buddies anymore. And where would that leave your husband?”
“In jail,” she said simply. “For another twenty-five years to life. He’s not even eligible for parole for another fifteen years.”
Shane heard the bitterness she tried to hide behind a flippant smile, and ached a little inside. “I fucking know how long he’ll be behind bars.”
“Well then, why won’t you take care of his wife?” The need and hunger in her voice were palpable now. “I wouldn’t see anyone else, Shane, I promise.”
When he didn’t respond immediately, angry color suffused her face. “I can’t believe you’d sleep with that trailer park slut, but you won’t sleep with me! Fuck!”
Sarah was approaching with his second beer. He thanked her, took a sip, and then waited until she’d walked away again before facing Raven. “Enough,” he said seriously. “I made sure you’re taken care of, Raven, and you know it. You don’t want for a thing, but I’m not ready to go any further. Okay?”
She’d pushed too hard, and she knew it, so she merely shook her head and released a sigh. “I understand,” she murmured. “I’m just disappointed, that’s all.”
Sympathetically he squeezed her hand. “It’s not that I’m not interested. You’re gorgeous, and extremely sexy. But I can’t do that to your old man. I know and respect him too much, and he saved my life in prison. It just wouldn’t be right.”
“Yeah.” She swirled her drink, then shot him a wry glance. “That’s probably why I want you so much, Shane. You’re unattainable.”
Her sour reply startled him into laughing, and after a moment she joined in. Across the room, Coke and Sarah exchanged a knowing glance and smile. Everyone remembered how Shane and Raven had been an item before he’d gone to jail. It was nice to see them laughing again. There was a running bet within the club whether they’d get together again now that he was back. Coke didn’t think so, but Sarah was sure Raven would finesse her way back into his bed. At this point, it was anyone’s guess what would happen.
“So how’s our new mule coming along?” Shane finally asked Raven in a quiet voice.
Pleased, she lit a cigarette with practiced ease. “Excellent. She’s doing great as a stripper, and she’s making decent money. She’d probably make a lot more if she spent some time in the VIP section.”
Shane considered her reply as he sipped his beer. “She’s not going up there?”
“No. At least, not that that I’ve seen.” Raven took a long drag on her cigarette, then flashed him a questioning glance. “Why don’t you want her up there?”
“It’s not good for business,” he explained. “Too much shit happens up there, and I don’t want her involved in any of it. I only want her dancing in the main room, having some fun, and making money.”
“Well, she’s certainly doing that, honey,” Raven said drily. “The cute bitch took to stripping like a duck to water!”
“You two getting along?”
“No! Fuckin’ little slut!” Raven puffed on her cigarette again. “Crystal thinks we’re fucking BFF’s…but we are not doing okay.” Her eyes flashed with anger. “I’ve lost a few customers to her already, and that pisses me off. She also gets laid by a certain biker—or used to get laid, anyway—and that really pisses me off. I didn’t like her when I met her, and I really don’t like her now. Truthfully, I hate the cute little bitch!”
“Damn it, Raven,” Shane growled, “it’s over with Crystal. Get it? It was a short-time thing, mostly because she and her husband wanted to live out a fantasy. That’s all.”
“Whatever.” She snapped it out, and refused to meet his scowling gaze.
“Just stop, okay?” Frustration colored his voice. “So you lose a customer or two—who fucking cares? You’ll get more; you always do. Besides,” he added, leaning forward. “You don’t have to like Crystal, Raven. You just have to keep her on track. I need her hooked and dependent, understood? That’s all.”
“Yeah, I got it,” she muttered. “That’s all.” Then she sighed and stared at her lap for a moment. “Never mind, Shane. It’s a woman thing.”
He honestly couldn’t see why she was pissed; they’d talked at length about his plan for Crystal. “Well, just make sure you stay best friends,” he said, eyeing her intently. “Okay?”
Raven rolled her eyes. “Of course.”
“Good.” Relieved, he smiled at her. “She on anything yet?”
That brightened her grim mood, and her grin turned wicked. “Yes. It took a little longer than I expected, but yes.”
“Well, don’t keep it a fucking secret,” he complained.
“Oh, all right.” Smirking, she finished her drink. “We started by smoking some weed toward the end of our shift. Joe’s cool with it as long as we use the outside patio, so no one sees us. I also let her try some coke,” she confided, and rolled her eyes. “Holy shit, she loves that stuff. Little Crystal also gets really horny when she’s high, and it’s funny to watch. But she doesn’t get out of control.”
“Is that right? I knew she liked to smoke weed, but I didn’t realize how it affected her.”
“Yep,” Raven chuckled. “She’s had to get herself off a few times before she goes home. It’s actually really hot to watch. I might just fuck her one of these days. She is gorgeous, after all.”
Shane rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah. Back to business.”
“Okay, okay.” Raven flicked her cigarette over the ashtray. “I gave her some ecstasy a few weeks ago, and she fucking loved that, too. She just plain likes getting high, Shane.”
“She get out of hand?”
“No. Well, almost,” Raven amended. “She almost fucked a customer, but I stopped her. She likes ecstasy almost as much as she likes coke, and she already asked if I could get her some more.”
“Do it.” Shane fished into his jacket and pulled out a thick wad of bills. “Here. I want you to get some more ecstasy, weed, and cocaine. You know who to go to, right?”
She nodded, and tucked the bundle in her purse.
“I want Crystal using something every night you two work together,” he said clearly.
She eyed him curiously. “When are you going to start her on the hard stuff?”
“Coke isn’t hard stuff?” he retorted, lifting one eyebrow.
“You know what I mean.”
“Soon. But I want her to be further along before we give her a taste of Meth.”
“Oh, she’s going to love Meth,” Raven chuckled.
“Why do you say that?”
“Baby, you’ve got a serious party girl there,” she smirked. “She likes to shake her ass and get high. She’s not picky about men, either,” she added, glancing mockingly at him.
Shane leaned forward. “What the fuck do you mean by that?”
“Relax, Shane.” She laid a hand on his arm. “She isn’t fucking anyone from the club. I’ve been watching her closely, and so has Joe.”
He didn’t relax; instead, he glanced around the bar before leaning closer. “Then what do you mean?”
Raven lifted one shoulder in an idle shrug. “Well, some girls won’t dance for black guys, and some won’t dance for Latinos. Crystal doesn’t care; she’s an equal opportunity stripper. She likes all kinds of guys—and she’s constantly pointing out which ones she thinks are cute.” Amused, she shook her head. “She has a thing for black guys…really likes them. You know that cliché about white blonde country girls lusting after black guys? Well, in her case, it’s definitely true. She has a serious case of jungle fever!”
That suited Shane just fine. “Good, as long as she’s not fucking anyone in the club. That’s important, Raven. We can’t have her getting arrested, or doing anything that would make Joe kick her out.”
She nodded, then asked, “When is she going to start making deliveries? I’d really like to stop, Shane. I’ve been doing it a lot longer than we initially agreed to.”
He’d started to take a sip of his beer, but now he set the mug down. “Soon,” he said quietly, leaning forward and lowering his voice. “But you don’t need to know anything about that part of the business. Understood? Don’t ask again.”
Raven apparently missed his grim look, because she carelessly tossed her long hair over one shoulder. “Yeah, I get it.”
Annoyed, he grabbed her arm just tightly enough to guarantee her undivided attention. Her eyes widened, but she didn’t dare pull away from his painful grip.
“Do. Not. Fucking. Ask. Again!” He snapped the words so coldly that goose bumps shivered across her skin.
“I won’t, Shane. I promise,” she quickly agreed.
She’d always considered herself close to him, and had scoffed at Rowdy’s and Coke’s stories about how hard and ruthless he could be. But the malicious gleam in his eyes made her think twice. This was a side of him she’d never seen before, and it frightened her more than she liked to admit.
He held her gaze a moment longer, then released her aching arm and smiled coolly at her. Her stomach churned even harder.
“Thank you,” he said quietly.
“You’re welcome.” She gulped out the words, and took a long drag on her cigarette to calm her shaking nerves.
Shane finished his second beer, and held up the empty mug to catch Sarah’s attention. She smiled indulgently at him, and brought him another round.
When she’d left again, he turned back to Raven. “I just need you to be Crystal’s friend. I realize it may be difficult for you, but it won’t be forever. You need to be the person she goes to when she has a problem—and who always has a pick-me-up when she needs one.”
“Okay.” She could do that much. “When do you want me to start her on Meth?”
“Use your best judgment,” he replied. “Get some now, and give it to her when you think the time is right. Sooner is better than later; I want her making regular deliveries soon. Give her a good taste of everything, including Meth,” he instructed, “and then run out unexpectedly. Based on what you’ve told me, it won’t be long before she’ll want more. She’ll come to you—and when that happens, we’ll take it to the next level.”
Raven crushed her cigarette in the ashtray, and nodded. “I get it, Shane,” she agreed, and hated how her voice shook. “I’ll handle it exactly the way you want.”
He realized that he’d gone too far in trying to scare her, so he stood and enveloped her in a comforting hug. “You’re special to me, Raven,” he whispered. “I’ll always make sure you’re taken care of—but I need you to follow my instructions. Please.”
She held him tightly, and ached inside. She’d been in love with Shane for a long time, but he no longer felt the same in return. It was one of the reasons she envied Crystal; the blonde stripper got to be with him, and that kicked her jealousy into high gear.
I hate that bitch! she silently cursed Crystal. I’ll get her hooked on Meth quickly, and then sit back and watch her crash and burn!
When tears started filling her eyes, she hugged him even tighter, then stepped back and wiped her eyes. “Thank you, Shane,” she murmured. “I needed to hear that from you.”
Shane watched her turn and leave the bar, then took a long pull on his beer and silently cursed his stupidity. He should have handled her more carefully. Raven relied on him to be her anchor. If only she didn’t want so much more from him! He wasn’t ready yet; he’d spent too much time with her husband.
He’s going to be stuck in jail for the next twenty years. You know he wouldn’t mind you seeing Raven. Fuck!
Restlessly he checked his watch, then his cell phone. Rowdy hadn’t left him any messages, but that wasn’t unusual…and he wasn’t due at the bar for another half hour. He stared absently at the TV above the bar as he sipped his beer, and mentally reviewed his conversation with Raven.
It’s about time, he thought. I need to get Raven out of the Meth business, and Crystal needs to take over. We need a full-time mule, and she’s perfect.
It had taken a lot longer than he’d anticipated, but she was finally coming along, and Shane knew she’d soon be making deliveries for him. The Meth operation was behind schedule. Raven would continue making deliveries for now…but their operation was about to shift into high gear, and Shane needed an expendable mule. Raven wasn’t expendable; Crystal was.
Once she was ready, they’d let their customers know that Crystal was taking Raven’s place. He’d also warn them to leave her the fuck alone. She was beyond cute, and had the kind of body that stopped traffic. They had to understand that she only delivered the product; she wouldn’t be providing them with any ‘special additional services.’ Not only was it bad for business, but it showed disrespect for Shane’s organization.
Besides, it could lead Crystal to another source of drugs, and confuse her loyalties.
Shane wasn’t willing to let any of those things happen.
Soon, he thought, and lifted his glass.
Crystal walked into the club and released a heavy sigh, grateful to be out of the oppressive heat and back into air conditioning. She adjusted her gym bag over one shoulder, closed her eyes, and briefly stood under the humming vent. Cold air played over her head and chest, and it felt amazing; who could have believed it would be so freakin’ hot and humid outside at this time of year?
When she finally opened her eyes, she noticed Jolene watching her. “Hey, Jolene,” she smiled, walking over to the front desk. “How’s it going?”
“Great, honey,’ the older woman replied with an answering smile. “You doing okay?”
She passed over the sign-in sheet, and Crystal added her name to that night’s list of dancers. “Yeah. A little tired, but doing okay.” The club charged a house fee for dancing every night; she handed that over, too, then turned toward the locker room.
“Have a good night!” Jolene’s voice followed her through the doors.
She didn’t mind paying a nightly fee. It wasn’t a big deal, because she always made enough to cover it. Even that first night, she’d netted an incredible $500 after she’d paid her entry fee and the club’s cut of her tips. She hadn’t quite matched Raven’s $1000 nights, but it was only a matter of time…she was getting close.
Of course Raven had a loyal set of customers who didn’t mind dropping several hundred dollars in a night. She hadn’t been dancing long enough to build that kind of customer base, but she hoped that would change soon. She didn’t mind working the floor, even though it was harder, but customers always wanted to take her up to the VIP room…
“Hey, gorgeous.” Joe’s voice broke into her thoughts, and she glanced up as he joined her. “I’m glad you came in tonight.”
“Why?” Crystal asked. “What’s special about tonight?”
Joe’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “Duh…there’s a major UFC fight on tonight, and we’re expecting a big crowd.”
“Oh, great.” She released a weary sigh. “A big bunch of rowdy wannabe-tough guys who are too cheap to pay to see the fight at home, so they come to a strip club.”
That was so unlike her normal upbeat attitude that Joe laid a restraining hand on her arm. “Hey, are you okay?”
“You’re the second person in five minutes to ask me that,” she exclaimed, cocking her head in confusion. “What’s up? Do I look bad or something?”
Quickly he shook his head. “No. Not at all.” Then he added, “It’s just that you’re usually more cheerful.”
“Is that right?” Crystal grimaced. “Well, maybe it’s because my husband’s being a jerk.”
Anything that affected Crystal affected Joe, so he studied her intently. “Trouble in paradise?”
“No.” She responded a little too quickly, then lifted one slender shoulder in an exasperated shrug. “It’s just that I’m still working two jobs. I’d hoped Tim would be okay with me quitting my other job and just working here, but he’s not.”
“Wow. He seemed like a cool guy,” he exclaimed. “You make more here than you do at your other job, right?”
“A lot more!” She threw her hands up in frustration. “We wouldn’t miss that income at all, and it would free me up to dance a few more nights every week.”
He’d like that, because she was one of the club’s most popular dancers…and he was sure Rowdy and Shane would prefer to have her in San Antonio more often, too. “Why don’t I talk to Tim?” he asked gently. “I deal with husbands and boyfriends all the time.”
“Really?” Crystal suddenly beamed. “You’d do that for me?”
Joe laughed. “Of course,” he agreed, lightly squeezing her shoulder. “I’ll call him soon.”
“Oh, thank you!” She leapt toward him, and gave him a big hug. “Thank you, Joe! You’re the best!”
“Yeah, yeah.” Chuckling, he rolled his eyes. “Stop that now, before someone gets the wrong idea.”
In reply, she mock-punched his chest, and he cringed as though it had actually hurt. The humorous byplay made them both laugh.
When she walked into the locker room, it was already crowded. Raven had talked Joe into giving her a bigger locker that easily held her gym bag. Some of the other dancers had grumbled about that, but she ignored them. She’d learned that even when she tried to be friendly, they were often cold and distant. It was, Raven and Joe had warned her, because she was prettier, and taking their customers away.
She wasn’t trying to, she assured herself as she settled down at an empty makeup station. But it wasn’t unusual for a guy to ask another dancer to leave so Crystal would dance for him. That had definitely created some hard feelings.
“Hey, girlfriend.”
Raven’s amused voice dispelled her troubled thoughts, and she glanced up with a warm smile. “Hey, beautiful!”
The leggy brunette dropped into an adjoining chair as Crystal checked her appearance in the mirror. Jealousy stabbed through her; Crystal was naturally gorgeous, and men were drawn to her. It wouldn’t be long before her cool blonde beauty seriously impacted Raven’s earnings, and she privately hated Crystal for that. She’d always been this club’s most popular dancer, but now she wondered if she was past her prime. And Crystal made it even worse by being such a genuinely sweet person. It was hard to hate anyone that nice.
Raven still managed it.
Bitch, she thought harshly. It won’t be long before Crystal’s a strung-out junkie. Shane won’t want her, and Joe will probably fire her. The sooner she’s on Meth, the better for everyone! She’ll be fucking guys for Meth before too long.
Smiling, she ran nimble fingers through Crystal’s long curls. “You’re so beautiful.”
Crystal stopped applying her makeup, and leaned over to hug Raven. “Thank you,” she said sincerely, “I’m not nearly as beautiful as you, though.”
Raven rolled her eyes in mock-embarrassment, but secretly she enjoyed the compliment. Time was gaining on her faster and faster every year; she might still be gorgeous now, but beauty was such a fleeting thing.
The realization depressed her, so she chased it away with a quick shake of her head.
I hate this little bitch, she thought, even as her smile warmed. I hate her, but I still want to get naked with her, because she’s just that gorgeous and sexy.
Quietly she asked, “How are you feeling?”
Exasperation chased across Crystal’s face. “Why does everyone keep asking me that?” she demanded, snapping her lipstick back into its protective case.
“Sorry, honey,” Raven quickly backpedaled.
“No, it’s okay.” Wearily the younger woman shook her head, and began threading a hot curling iron through her hair. “I’m just tired, and it must show more than I realized.”
“We just care about you,” Raven hedged, then fell silent.
She pretended to surf her phone while Crystal finished getting ready, but covertly she studied the younger girl from the corner of her eye. There were light bags under her eyes that hadn’t been there last time they’d worked together. Was she having trouble sleeping, or were there problems at home? Either suited Raven.
Smiling, she tucked her phone away, then leaned down and whispered in Crystal’s ear, “If you need a pick-me-up, come see me.”
Crystal winked, and continued curling her hair. What, she wondered as she watched Raven saunter from the room, would it be like to get naked with her? She’d never been with another woman, but lately she’d become aware of an undeniable attraction to the stunning brunette. Did Raven feel the same about her? She might secretly wish for something to develop between them, but she didn’t have the courage to initiate anything.
Get hold of yourself, she thought, setting down the curling iron. Raven may be bisexual, but she’s also a friend. Don’t do anything to jeopardize that.
Deliberately she closed her eyes, dug her nails into her palms, and let the pain clear her mind. She’d think about Raven another time; right now she had to finish getting ready. She took another deep cleansing breath, then opened her eyes.
“Aahh!” She nearly jumped out of her skin when she realized someone was standing beside her.
Lauren giggled. “Sorry!”
“Bitch,” Crystal teased with a grin. “You scared the crap out of me.”
“Sorry,” she repeated, and her eyes twinkled with humor. “I didn’t mean to interrupt your meditation session.”
Crystal laid a dramatic hand on her chest and mimed a frantically pounding heart, then cheerfully reached for her curling iron again. “What’s up?”
“Nothing,” Lauren shrugged. “I just finished my set, and there are no good customers out there, so I thought I’d come in and shoot the breeze.”
“Hopefully it will pick up tonight,” Crystal exclaimed. “Joe mentioned there was a big UFC fight tonight, so maybe we’ll all get wealthy, good-looking customers.”
Lauren rolled her eyes. “Yeah, right,” she chuckled. “Spurs games bring in good paying customers. UFC fights usually mean broke assholes.”
“Great,” Crystal muttered wryly. “Just great.”
Lauren hesitated for a moment, then plunged into the real reason she’d entered the locker room. “I want to tell you something,” she began, “but…”
The tension in her voice made Crystal pay closer attention. “What?” she asked, swiveling around to face the other girl.
Lauren swallowed hard, then blurted, “I gave your husband a lap dance. It was the night of the amateur contest, when you first came to the club.” She hadn’t wanted to cause a scene, and some dancers were territorial, but it had been preying on her conscience.
To her surprise and great relief, Crystal giggled. “I know. He told me when we got home that night. He confessed everything. And he really enjoyed it, by the way.”
“Really?” Lauren beamed with genuine delight. “I’m glad. I was worried you’d be pissed. So…maybe I’ll get another chance to dance for him sometime. If that’s okay,” she quickly added. “He’s a cutie!”
“No, that’d be great,” Crystal replied, and turned back around to touch up her mascara. “Maybe it will loosen him up a little.”
“He doesn’t like you stripping?”
“Not really, no.”
It was an all-too-familiar story; strippers’ husbands or boyfriends nearly always fell into one of two camps. Either they disapproved of stripping, regardless of the money, and would never be comfortable…or they got off on having a stripper in their lives.
The first group would try to cope for a while, then break it off when they could no longer stand the thought of their girl shaking her tits for a room full of lusting men. The second group encouraged their wives to work as often as possible, and essentially became pimps by pushing them to do more than just strip for their customers.
It was rare for strippers to manage a good healthy relationship, and Lauren’s heart ached a little for this new girl who seemed so sweet and genuinely friendly.
When she looked into the mirror to check her own makeup, she made eye contact with Crystal, and smiled encouragingly. “Don’t worry. He’ll come around. And if he doesn’t, quit stripping. This job isn’t worth losing a cutie like him.”
Crystal suddenly laughed, and Lauren joined in. Their amusement fed on itself until tears were streaming from their eyes, and they were clutching each other to keep from falling out of their chairs.
When they finally regained control, and carefully wiped their eyes, Lauren leaned back in her chair with a rueful sigh. “It’s weird, but I think stripping is harder on the men in our lives than us.”
In an instant, Crystal’s exasperation returned. “Why? I make more money here than I do at my other job. Everything would be perfect if he’d just accept that I’m a stripper, and I make good money at it.”
Lauren watched in amusement as she stalked over to her locker, pulled out her dress, then carefully stepped into it. No question about it, the blonde dancer was stunning.
Holy cow, her body is perfect! Strippers pay a ton of money to have their breasts look like hers, and they’re completely natural. Guys love large, natural breasts. That’s why she’s so freakin’ popular with the customers.
It’s also why the other dancers grumble and make catty comments behind her back. It doesn’t help that Raven gets pissed at anyone who tries to be friendly to her.
“Crystal, can I ask you something?” she ventured, and hoped she wasn’t crossing a line.
“Sure.” Crystal stepped into her fancy shoes, then glanced back at Lauren. “What’s up?”
“Well…” She hesitated a moment longer, then continued, “I met your husband, and I’ve talked with you a few times. You both seem like really nice people. So what’s the connection with Shane and Rowdy? They’re hardcore bikers.”
A reminiscent smile curved Crystal’s lips. “Yeah…it’s not obvious, is it?” She kept her voice low, so that none of the other girls could hear them. “Well, Tim and I met Shane when he moved into our trailer park. He wasn’t part of the club at that point, and we hung out together.”
Something in her enigmatic smile made Lauren eye her more carefully. “You did more than hang out, didn’t you?”
Crystal immediately blushed. “Is it that obvious?”
“Only to the trained eye,” Lauren replied with a knowing smile.
“Yeah, well.” Embarrassed, the blonde dancer shook her head. “Shane, Tim, and I did a lot together…and then Shane decided to rejoin the club. I’ve always wanted to try stripping, and Shane and Rowdy knew Joe. So they helped me get hired here.”
“Are you still seeing Shane?”
She didn’t mind the personal question, as it was a logical one. But Shane’s sudden disinterest still hurt. “No, not anymore,” she said slowly, looking away. “It’s been over between us for a while.”
Lauren understood rejection, too, and leaned over to hug the younger girl. Her spontaneous gesture startled Crystal, but then she gratefully returned it.
“I can’t believe I told you so much,” she confessed when they finally separated.
“It’s okay, honey. I can keep a secret,” Lauren soothed her. “Besides, I’ve spent some time with Shane and Rowdy and their club. They can be a lot of fun.”
“I really like spending time with Shane,” Crystal agreed, then laughed. “Rowdy, not so much. Even though he is really cute.”
“Mmmm. Those blue eyes just make you melt, don’t they?”
“God, yes! But Rowdy’s too rough around the edges for me,” she confided.
“Me, too,” Laurel chuckled, then whispered, “Rowdy’s a lot like the roller coaster. A lot of fun to ride, but you get sick of it really quick.”
That made Crystal laugh. “I’ve never ridden Rowdy, so I’ll take your word for it.”
“Yeah. Well,” Lauren shrugged, “I’ve been there and done that. It was fun, but Rowdy’s not the type to settle down.”
“Shane isn’t, either. I know he’ll always be married to the club, and I’m honestly in love with my husband…” She trailed off a little uncertainly.
“…but it’s nice to dream, right?” Lauren finished her unspoken fantasy.
“Yes, it is.” When Crystal spoke again, her voice was suddenly serious.
It was past time for her to return to the floor, so Lauren stood and arched her back. Then she looked soberly back at Crystal. “Well, take my advice, and just be careful. Stay away from drugs, too.”
Her grim warning startled Crystal into glancing up sharply. “It’s just a little weed,” she muttered.
“Really?”
Lauren’s open skepticism made Crystal blush again, and raise her hands in mute apology. “Well, maybe a little more than weed.”
Lauren sighed. “Honey, I’m not your priest, so you don’t have to confess anything to me. Just please be careful. You’re young and sweet, and those traits don’t last long around Shane and Rowdy.”
She’d almost reached the door when Crystal’s quiet “Thank you,” stopped her. Smiling, she glanced back over her shoulder.
“You’re welcome.”
Crystal finished getting ready just in time for her first set on the main stage. Despite the club being fairly empty since the evening was still young, she’d earned back the house fee by the time she stepped down to take a well-deserved break. The night was off to a good start.
Raven was sitting alone at a back table. Smiling, she joined her, and sank down into the adjoining chair. “Hey, bitch,” she teased. “You being anti-social, or what?”
Raven returned her smile, and took a long swig of her drink. “No, you cunt,” she replied with a wink. “I’m just chilling before the UFC fight starts.”
Before Crystal could reply to that, she yawned so hugely that her eyes watered.
“Wow,” Raven exclaimed, narrowing her eyes. “You going to make it through the night, Sleeping Beauty?”
Dancing was definitely exhausting, and suddenly she felt totally drained. “Do you think Joe would mind if I cut out early?”
“Hell, yes,” Raven retorted. “You and I are the main attractions tonight. Joe’s going to be pissed if you leave.”
“Great.” She muttered it under her breath, then scowled down at her water glass. “I guess I’d better start drinking Red Bull, then, because I’m not sure I’ll make it until closing.”
That was just what Raven had hoped to hear. Smiling, she leaned over and whispered, “I have something that might perk you up.”
“I don’t need weed,” Crystal declined. “That just mellows me out.”
“I have more than weed, honey,” Raven replied, mischievously wiggling her eyebrows. “But suit yourself.”
When a waitress stopped by, they both ordered fresh glasses of water. Then…she just couldn’t help it…Crystal started giggling when the girl walked away. “That’s the waitress who saw me almost fuck that guy,” she confessed when Raven pinned her with a questioning stare. “Y’know, the night you gave me some ecstasy.”
“Ahhhhh.” The older woman drew out the single word, then winked at her. “I remember.”
“No more ecstasy for me…it makes me too horny,” Crystal confessed with a giggle. “Joe wouldn’t want me to fuck any customers.”
“Only Joe?” Raven smirked. “What about your husband?”
Crystal burst out laughing, then blurted, “He’d be okay with it as long as he could watch!”
The moment Raven’s eyes widened, she realized what she’d let slip, and clapped a hand over her mouth. But it was too late; Raven was already grinning. “Wow, Tim’s a little freak!” she exclaimed. “It’s always the quiet ones!”
Crystal blushed to the roots of her hair. “Please don’t say anything!” she begged, gripping Raven’s arm. “I shouldn’t have told you. God, what the hell is wrong with me tonight? I’m so embarrassed.”
Her panicked reaction amused Raven just as much as her unintended gaffe, and she laughed as she patted Crystal’s knee. “Baby, I’ve been stripping for a while, and I hang out with hardcore bikers. Believe me, I’ve seen it all!”
“You won’t say anything?”
“No.” Raven cheerfully shook her head. “Your secret is safe with me.”
Crystal sighed with undisguised relief. “Thank you.”
When her name echoed through the overhead sound system, Raven stood up and adjusted her dress. Then she glanced back down at Crystal, who was starting to yawn again. “Come see me later, and I’ll give you something to keep you going.”
“I will, thanks.”
When the waitress returned with Crystal’s water, she ordered a Red Bull, too. She hadn’t slept well last night, and now she was paying for it. Hopefully caffeine and sugar would perk her up enough to make it through her shift. The club was slowly filling with customers. If she could put on a dazzling show, she could make some good money tonight.
Tim’s birthday is right around the corner. If I can make some good tips, I can get him that tablet he wants so badly.
Wearily she drank the can, closed her eyes, and muffled another wide yawn. If the Red Bull didn’t work, she’d have to accept Raven’s offer; otherwise she’d never make it through the night.
Gentle shaking startled her awake, and she peered blearily up at the smiling waitress. “I thought I’d better wake you,” the girl explained, and offered her a second can. “Here, maybe this will help. But honestly, baby, I think you just need to go home.”
“Can’t.” Crystal didn’t like the stuff, but she gratefully tipped the can and drank deeply. “Joe wouldn’t be happy if I left early.”
How long had she been asleep? Fifteen minutes, at least, since Raven wasn’t dancing anymore. The chair creaked as she stretched, and rolled her head to loosen her neck muscles.
“Maybe not…but he’ll get over it.” The girl slipped her tray under her arm, and studied Crystal. “Dancers do it all the time. It’s better than falling asleep during a lap dance…the customers just love that. Major turn-on.” She sounded wryly sarcastic. “I’m Marie, by the way.” And she stuck her hand out to shake Crystal’s.
Was Marie being bitchy, mocking, or genuinely nice? Crystal wasn’t sure, so she hesitated before accepting the gesture. “I’m Crystal.”
“Want me to go talk to Joe?”
It was tempting, but he deserved to hear it directly from her. “Thank you, but no,” Crystal sighed, and slowly rose to her feet. “I’ll go see him in a second. Just let me tell Raven what’s going on first.”
Marie patted her shoulder as she shuffled by, and started to clean the table.
She managed to return to the locker room without stumbling or falling asleep again, and counted that a victory. Raven was just leaving the restroom when she plopped down on the locker room couch. “Hey, you’re awake,” she exclaimed, and perched on the arm of the couch. “I was going to wake you earlier, but the club is slow, and you looked so cute.”
“Hmmm,” Crystal murmured, and wearily let her head fall back. “I’m going to talk to Joe about leaving early.”
Raven gently ran her fingers through Crystal’s hair. Another burst of jealousy swept through her because Crystal was obviously a natural blonde, and her hair was beautiful. She was a dark brunette, but her hair wasn’t nearly as thick or naturally wavy.
“I have something that will help,” she said softly.
“That feels good,” Crystal murmured. “No…I already told you, I don’t need weed or ecstasy, and coke just makes me hyper for an hour.”
“Sssshhhhh,” Raven murmured, and continued to stroke her hair. “I have something different. It will perk you up for about 8 hours, so you’ll need to sleep in tomorrow. Can you do that?”
“Sure,” Crystal drowsily agreed. “Tim always lets me sleep in on Saturdays, so it shouldn’t be a problem.” Then she forced her eyes open, and looked up at Raven. “What do you have?”
Success!
Smiling, Raven rose to her feet. “Wait here.”
Crystal’s eyes drifted closed again as Raven left the locker room. It felt nice to sit and relax. She’d give Raven’s thing a try, whatever it was, and hope it worked. If it didn’t, she’d head home and go to bed early tonight.
Maybe Tim and I can have a little sex, she thought with a sleepy smile. It’s been ages since we’ve been together.
She was just drifting off again when Raven returned, and offered her a small capsule and a bottle of water. “Here you go.”
She took a sip, then looked curiously at the capsule. “What’s this?”
Raven smiled wickedly at her. “It’s Meth,” she said simply. “I normally take a small capsule when I need a burst of energy. It will definitely perk you up and make you feel better.”
Crystal shook her head in confusion. “I thought Meth was something you smoked. I didn’t know it came in pills.” It didn’t look different from any other capsules. “Are you sure this is Meth?”
“Oh, I’m sure,” Raven chuckled, and winked at her. “It’s been ground up into a powder, and I put it inside little aspirin capsules. Most people who use Meth regularly prefer to smoke or snort it, because it gives a really amazing quick rush. I prefer it this way, because it’s a smaller dose—perfect for a pick-me-up.”
“Really?” Crystal eyed the small pill with new interest. “I’ll still be able to work?”
“Oh, yeah.” Solemnly Raven nodded. “I know guys in the Blades who smoke Meth. They swear it’s the best, longest-lasting high they’ve ever had.”
It was a calculated lie; the club wouldn’t allow a patched member to use Meth in any form. Shane would likely kill anyone who tried, because eventually Meth users always crashed—and crashed hard. It put the club at risk, and that was something he wouldn’t allow.
There was no way Crystal could have known that, though. She’d grown up in a small town, and her drug exposure was limited. She also trusted Raven completely.
Raven, on the other hand, found it easy to lie to her…and did so without a qualm.
“Wow.” Crystal blinked in amazement. “How long will this last?”
“It’s different for everyone,” Raven hedged. “But I’d think it’ll last at least six or eight hours. That’s how long it lasts for me, anyway. You might have trouble falling asleep…but once you do, you’ll sleep like a baby.”
“Good. I don’t want to fall asleep on the way home.” Smiling, she plucked the capsule from Raven’s hand, and swallowed it. “Down the hatch,” she teased, after washing it down with water.
Belatedly she remembered Lauren’s warning, but she couldn’t do anything about it now. Sighing, she laid her head back again, and closed her eyes.
Raven immediately started stroking her hair again, and her gleeful smile was vicious. That’s it, you cute little bitch. Let’s get you hooked on Meth, and then see how quickly you lose your looks. How long, Crystal? How long will you last before you’re strung out and fucking customers for Meth? How long before you’re walking the street, and turning tricks on some street corner? I know some pimps who’d love to add you to their stable. I’ll be sure to introduce you to them…once the Blades are done using you, of course.
None of her hatred echoed through her voice, though, when she leaned down and whispered in Crystal’s ear, “I’ll be right back. I’m just going to go talk to Joe.”
Crystal sleepily nodded without opening her eyes.
Joe stared unhappily at his phone, and heaved a troubled sigh. Did Tim know his young wife was using drugs or getting wild after hours? If he didn’t know what to look for, he wasn’t likely to find out for a while.
The money Shane and Rowdy were paying him made it easy to look the other way when Raven supplied Crystal with weed, ecstasy, or maybe even coke. Yes, it was against the rules, which put him in a difficult position…but he was more afraid of what might happen if he tried to intervene.
No putting it off any longer. Frowning, he speed-dialed a too-familiar number.
“Shane?”
The voice on the other end was flat and hard. “Yeah.”
“It’s Joe,” the older man gulped. He wasn’t in any trouble…but still, dealing with either of the two bikers made him nervous, especially when Shane’s tone was so frightening. “Listen, I just wanted to let you know that Crystal is looking tired tonight. It might just be a bad night’s sleep, but…” He wiped sweat off his brow, and was glad no one could see the betraying gesture.
“That all?”
“No. Crystal wants to start dancing full-time, but her husband is against it.” He said it quickly, as if the mere words could bite him. “I thought you should know.”
“Thank you, Joe,” Shane said coolly. “I appreciate the call.”
The manager’s hand shook just a little when he carefully set down the receiver. The call had been short, and Shane hadn’t asked anything of him. Relieved, he pulled out his secret bottle of whiskey, and splashed some in a glass.
Everything’s going good. Just keep Shane informed, and the money won’t stop flowing.
Why am I bothering to worry about Crystal? I’m not her father or her husband. She’s not my responsibility.
So far, everything was going according to plan. The envelopes came regularly, Crystal was doing great at the club, Raven kept a close eye on her, and the other dancers left her alone. Things were good…but Joe couldn’t help feeling he was moving into the deep end of the pool. He sincerely hoped he’d be able to keep his head above water.
He did some paperwork, and reviewed last night’s inventory. It was a lamentable fact that employees were one of the biggest threats to the bar itself. It wasn’t unusual for bottles and even cases of liquor to mysteriously vanish or to be ‘broken accidentally’ when no one was looking. Joe did an inventory each night, and he even had an accounting firm review their books and inventory at six month intervals, just to make sure he wasn’t missing anything.
Everything’s looking good.
He finished his drink and was about to leave when Raven walked into his office. Joe smiled warmly at her, because if there was ever a dancer he’d consider getting involved with, it was Raven. She was a total knockout, and just the right kind of kinky. Joe thought bisexual women were a huge turn-on. Unfortunately for him, she was only interested in members of the Blades’ gang.
She ignored his enthusiastic greeting, and coolly took a seat in front of his desk. “Crystal is tired tonight,” she said briskly.
“I noticed that when I spoke to her earlier,” he nodded.
“Well, I’m going to help her.”
“Okay.” Joe looked confused. “What do you need from me?”
“Nothing. But if she starts acting weird, I want you to send her home with me tonight.”
“Before the club closes?” His eyes widened with dismay.
“Maybe, yes.”
“Holy shit, Raven!” Now irritation flooded his voice. “You two are the club’s biggest draw! Now you’re telling me you may need to leave early…on a night with a big UFC fight?”
“Yes, Joe.” She leaned forward and fixed him with a piercing stare. “That’s exactly what I’m telling you.”
“I don’t know, Raven,” he muttered, stalling for time. “I’m going to need you to stay. You don’t have to dance on the main stage, but I want you two at least walking the floor, and maybe giving a few lap dances.”
Raven didn’t answer; she simply sat back in her chair and stared at him. Eventually he dropped his gaze, and wilted a little.
“You called Shane tonight,” she suddenly interjected. It wasn’t a question.
His nerves jumped again. “Yes.”
“Okay, then,” she smiled. “If I need to leave with Crystal, I’m leaving with Crystal. It’s that simple…and I’m not asking for your permission. Talk to Shane if you have a problem with it.”
Still, there was no point in alienating him…and having the club manager infatuated with her could be useful. “It may not be necessary, Joe,” she added in a gentler voice. “I’m just letting you know, and trying to cover my bases, okay? Oh…and don’t call her husband. I’ll handle him.”
What choice did he really have? “Okay,” he muttered. “Just keep me informed.”
“I will,” Raven nodded. “Thanks, Joe.”
He watched her walk out of his office again, and sighed. No matter how nice or patient he was, the woman barely gave him a moment’s notice. She was still just as cool to him now as she had been when he’d met her.
It’s going to be a long night, he thought, refilling his whiskey glass.
In the short time she’d been gone, Crystal had undergone a complete transformation. She was wide awake, bright-eyed, smiling widely, and bouncing in her chair as she chatted happily with some other strippers. The moment she saw Raven walk into the locker room, she jumped up and rushed over to hug her.
“Raaaaven!” she gushed. “It worked, it worked! I have all this energy and God, does it feel good! Holy shit!”
Raven pulled back with a smile. “I can see that. Wow, look at you!”
“I know, right?” Crystal exclaimed. “One minute I’m falling asleep, the next minute I can fucking run a marathon! I feel fantastic!” She spun in place, and threw her arms wide. “Everything just seems better. The music is clearer, the lights are brighter, and my friend Raven is even more beautiful. I have tons of energy, and I just feel so goddamn good!”
“I’m also super horny!” she whispered, wrapping her arms around the brunette again. Eagerly she pressed her breasts harder against Raven’s. “Did I mention that you’re beautiful and sexy and amazing and gorgeous?”
The other dancers exchanged knowing glances. Raven subtly angled her head toward the door. Taking the hint, they left the room, whispering quietly together.
“Honey, let’s sit down,” she urged, and guided a giggling Crystal over to the couch. Then she knelt down, and gripped both of the younger girl’s hands. “Listen, I know you feel really good…but I need you to focus, okay?”
“Absolutely!” Crystal’s eyes were unnaturally bright, and her pupils were almost fully dilated. “Whatever you want!”
“Great.” Raven kept her voice soft. “Now I want you to stick close to me tonight, okay?”
“Oh, goody.” Crystal looked deeply into Raven’s eyes as she slowly rubbed her hands over her thighs. Then she leaned forward and kissed her. When she finally leaned back again, she parted her thighs slowly, drawing her dress back inch by inch. “I’d like to stick very close to you, Raven,” she purred.
The brunette’s eyes widened in surprise. “Crystal, are you hitting on me?”
“Yes, damn it!” she exclaimed in a husky, excited voice. “I like you, Raven! I like you a lot!” She leaned forward, kissed her again, and ran her hands over Raven’s breasts. Then she sprawled back on the couch again, and tugged her dress up to her waist. She was naked beneath it, and clearly eager to be touched.
Raven backed away, curiously aroused by the younger woman’s sudden advance. She hadn’t been with a female lover in a long time and damn, it would be fun to take Crystal home!
Business first, she reminded herself. You can fuck the little hussy later.
“Crystal.” Her voice was sharp this time as she pushed the girl’s legs together again, then tugged her forward. “Focus, honey.”
Crystal giggled, then deliberately pouted. “Yes, Mother.”
It’s going to be a long night, Raven thought with an inner sigh.
“You’re in no condition to dance on the main stage,” she continued in the same irritated tone. “So you and I are just going to walk the floor. We’ll give a few lap dances, and then we’ll leave early.”
“Awesome!” Crystal’s eyes shone with excitement. “Can we get a hotel room together?”
She looked so hopeful that Raven couldn’t be mad at her. “Maybe.”
Eagerly she jumped up, and swayed back and forth. Raven steadied her while she walked over to the mirror, checked her makeup, and smoothed her dress. Then she turned and grinned. “Ready, boss!”
Raven had to smile. She was so cute, and the Meth apparently brought out her inner child. Hopefully, as the night wore on, she’d gain a little more control, and they’d be able to finish their shift. If not, she’d have to stay at Raven’s tonight, because there was no way she could drive home.
“Go put some fucking panties on, bitch!” Raven laughed.
The idea of seducing Crystal later was intensely appealing. The girl’s sexuality was blossoming, and if she wanted to try making love to another woman, Raven would be happy to help her explore that part of her personality.
The prospect of using the naïve country girl appealed to her just as much. She’d have even more influence and control over Crystal’s activities if they became lovers. Shane would approve of that, too…and maybe she could convince him to join them sometime.
An evil smile curved her lips when Crystal turned away to obey. It’s perfect. Shane will use Crystal for his drug operation, and I’ll use her to get him. It’s a win-win as long as the bitch does what she’s told…and the Meth will help ensure that. When I have Shane, and he’s done with her, we’ll kick her to the curb and move on. Then it will just be him and me!
In the meantime, she’d keep a close eye on Crystal to make sure she didn’t do anything stupid.
She walked over to the mirror, and checked her own makeup and dress. When she was finished, she leaned over and gently kissed Crystal on the lips. “Let’s go,” she said, and headed for the door. Crystal followed her with a delighted giggle.