Chapter 03 - Burlesque Red

The Mambo Five nightclub was one of the most famous spots in the city, known for its many live music venues and burlesque-style performances, where Sophie, her best friend, shone as one of the stars. It was a vibrant and trendy place, attracting a mix of people from all walks of life, all looking for fun and escapism.

Even though it was relatively empty due to the time of day, the bustle inside was intense, with staff coming and going in preparation for the evening. Kyera greeted each colleague with familiarity as she crossed the hall on her way to the bar. The nightclub staff were like a second family to her, creating a sense of belonging that made her feel at home.

From his office upstairs, Philipp Novac, the owner of the house, watched everything with a watchful eye. He waved to Kyera with a smile, a routine gesture between them, which she readily reciprocated. However, the disapproving look from Liliane Gonzales, Philipp's girlfriend, didn't go unnoticed. The stunning Latin brunette never hid her jealousy of the close friendship between Kyera and Philipp. Liliane's discomfort was palpable, but Kyera couldn't help the brotherly affection she felt for Philipp.

— Hi, baby! – Sophie's cheerful voice interrupted his thoughts. She approached the bar with a broad smile, and Kyera smiled back as she adjusted her apron over the standard nightclub uniform: black dress pants, white button-down shirt, suspenders and bow tie.

— Hi, Sophie! You look wonderful today. – said Kyera, admiring the bold look of her friend, who wore a pink wig over her natural blonde hair, adding a vibrant touch to her look.

Sophie tidied up her black outfit covered in sequins, complemented by fishnet stockings and silver heels.

— Do you like it? I bought it with the club's funds. – Sophie replied, with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Kyera immediately reprimanded her with an expression of mild disapproval.

— Again, Sophie? – Kyera exclaimed with a sigh. – You know Philipp's going to freak when he finds out you've bought yet another costume with the money for the performance upgrades.

Sophie shrugged, unconcerned.

— Oh, he'll fight a bit, as he always does, but in the end he'll agree that the investment was worth it. – She winked, smiling. – Besides, this new outfit definitely improves my act.

Kyera laughed, knowing well Sophie's carefree and charming manner, which always managed to get around Philipp's eccentricities.

Suddenly, Sophie's face turned serious.

— Kye, I saw Lews earlier hanging around the entrance to the club. I think he was waiting for you, – she said, while sticking her hand in a jar of peanuts. – I sent him away, but I have a feeling he might come back.

Lews' name sent a shiver down Kyera's spine. The memory of the humiliation he had put her through was still vivid. Ever since she ended the relationship, Lews hadn't accepted rejection. He followed her around, showing up wherever she was – at underground races, at work, and even in the building where she lived. Although he never became a real threat, his presence was uncomfortable and constant.

— I hope he doesn't have the nerve to show up today. – Kyera sighed, trying to shake off the growing discomfort.

Sophie squeezed her hands, conveying comfort with her touch.

— Don't worry, I've asked Hugo to keep an eye out. He won't let anything happen. – she assured Kyera, smiling.

Grateful, Kyera hugged her. They stayed like that for a moment, sharing their usual support and friendship, until Philipp's voice called out to Sophie from across the hall.

— I'd better go before the boss catches up with me. – Sophie said, jumping up from her seat with a giggle.

Kyera laughed, slapping Sophie's hand as she tried to grab more peanuts. Sophie grimaced playfully, stuck out her tongue and ran towards the dressing room.

The hours passed quickly, and Philipp decided to open the doors of Mambo Five half an hour early, as a growing queue was forming outside, something common on Friday nights. As soon as the doors opened, the club filled up. The hired DJ rocked the crowd with lively beats, and the crowd, carried away by the energy of the popular songs, soon took to the dance floor.

Kyera concentrated on the bar, preparing drinks and serving the customers who crowded around her. She immersed herself in her work, allowing the infectious vibe of the evening to wash away her restless thoughts of Lews. There was something comforting about the intense routine of bartending, about keeping her hands busy and her ears tuned to the conversations and laughter around her.

About an hour after the opening, the burlesque show began on the main stage. The most regulars left the dance floor and headed for the tables near the stage, ready to watch the dancers perform. The most anticipated performance of the night, as usual, was Sophie's. Whether she was pole dancing or performing songs by famous divas, she always stole the show with her talent and charisma.

While Kyera was organizing the orders at the bar, a familiar customer approached the counter: Moe Harrison. He was an imposing figure, well into his sixties, always flaunting wealth and accompanied by attractive young women. As usual, Moe was next to a much younger woman, someone who looked old enough to be his granddaughter. It was rare to see him unaccompanied, and when he did appear alone, it wasn't long before he left in company.

— The usual, Moe? – Kyera asked, not raising her eyes as she prepared the order before he could answer.

Moe gave a satisfied smile, clearly comfortable with the familiarity that years of going to the club had built up between them.

— Of course, darling. You know me too well. – he replied, in his usual gallant tone.

Kyera prepared the drinks as requested, including a sugar-free Cosmopolitan with lots of lemon for Moe's date. She grimaced discreetly as she witnessed the girl's exaggerated kiss with Moe, a scene that always disgusted her.

— Ew! – she muttered to herself, with a hint of amusement.

The evening progressed smoothly and Kyera concentrated on her work, distracted by the vibrant energy of the nightclub. It was then that she suddenly felt a chill as her eyes met those of Lews, on the other side of the bar. Her blood ran cold. He was there, staring at her with the same defiant look as always.

— Fire cat!

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