Page 36 of Fifty
“Well, well, well… I can’t believe my fuckin’ eyes. This beautiful woman, drinking all alone at the bar. What a shame,” a deep smooth voice slides up beside me.
“Shark,” my lips curl into a smile as I turn my head and catch his eye.
“You look like you could use some company,” he grins back, sliding easily into the seat beside me. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“I’m just having a quick drink, then I’m on my way out,” I share.
“You could’ve had a drink at the clubhouse, and avoided this place altogether,” he says, offering an option I never even considered.
“I haven’t been there enough to be welcome like that. Plus, I’m hoping to pick up some bartending shifts here, and the only way to have a chance at that is to actually learn a little behind the bar. Unfortunately giving up dancing has been hard on the wallet,” I feel the need to explain.
“You’re always welcome at the clubhouse. Fifty should’ve told you that,” he answers.
“So, you still coming in here every night?” I question, trying to change the subject.
“Only when my girl is taking the stage,” he winks.
“Your girl?” I ask, feeling my eyebrows lift.
“Kandi. We’ve been spending a little time together,” he admits. “Other than the money, do you miss the stage?” he asks.
“No. I mean, I love dancing, but I’d rather do it with my clothes on. And being with Fifty really put a few things in perspective,” I answer.
“So, my boy made you stop,” he smirks, thinking he knows everything.
“Nope, not even close. Actually, he doesn’t even know about this place,” I tell him and his eyes widen. “Don’t give me that look. Honestly, I tried to tell him a few times, but every time I started something or someone interrupted us. And then he had to go on the road. I’m planning to tell him when he gets back,” I share.
“But if you’re not dancing anymore, what’s to tell?” Shark’s question simmers between us.
“I want him to know. No, I need him to know who I am and where I came from. I want to tell him everything,” I finally answer.
“Shit, girl. You’re in deep. Better you than me,” he chuckles, putting his arm up to flag Jordan down for a drink.
“But you just said that you and Kandi…” my words hang.
“We’re just casual. Commitment isn’t really my thing,” he grins back.
“Hey, Shark. The usual?” Jordan asks quickly approaching.
“You know it,” he gives an easy answer, all the while keeping his eyes on me. I lift my glass and take a sip, as Jordan sets a bottle in front of him.
“Thanks, man,” he offers dropping a twenty on the bar.
“Let me know when you need another,” Jordan offers before leaving us to continue.
“I’m confused. You just told me two minutes ago that she wasyour girl,” I emphasize my words with a few air quotes and his head tips back and his laughter consumes me.
“My girl for tonight,” he continues to chuckle and I just roll my eyes.
“More like poor girl,” I sigh.
“She knows the deal, and I assure you, she enjoys every fucking minute,” a smirk curls on his lips and I know that’s my cue to leave.
I’ve known Shark long enough to know when he’s about to cross the line, and he’s teetering right on the edge. I bring my glass back to my lips, tipping back the last of it before sliding from my stool.
“Leaving me already?” disappointment fills his voice.
“Yeah, it’s time for me to head home. But I’m sure I’ll see you again soon. Maybe I’ll get to another party at the clubhouse once Fifty’s home,” I offer, trying to soften my departure.