Shades of Serenity

Chapter 1 A Fateful Encounter

~Serenity. A tall, slender girl with jet-black hair, eyes as dark as midnight, and flawless skin, Serenity was a stunning beauty, an elegant model whose every move commanded the attention of anyone around her.  She wore expensive clothes that highlighted her figure in ways most people never even dreamed possible, and it showed off how incredibly shapely her body was. Her hair was thick and silky as silk, and her facial features were delicately carved and well-sculpted.  She looked as if she belonged at any of the parties taking place throughout town, surrounded by admirers, and yet she still managed to exude a mysterious aura. It was as if no one could ever quite see past what seemed like a mask made from ice.  She was a mystery, and although everyone had tried to pierce through the veil,  they could not break through.
And so, many times in recent years Serenity had been forced to put up her defenses against men and women alike, whether it be in the form of physical contact or flirting, both of which could be construed as a romantic entanglement. For she had come to Atlanta to escape her past and to be free of her old life. And so, she took every opportunity to make herself known to anyone within earshot, to attract men and women alike.  If that meant playing the part of the beautiful but unapproachable manizer she was, then so be it. Being an escort wasn't so although, sometimes it did give her some leeway to get into more interesting clubs and bars,   where she would meet fascinating people and enjoy the sights of the city. But she never allowed that to interfere with her business. She always told herself not to get attached to her clients and to always meet her client's expectations and desires in whatever way she could think of to please them. That included getting into bed with a stranger. And while being seductive and beautiful could certainly have its benefits, she always kept her own preferences thoughts, and emotions separate from hers.  After all, she had learned early on that a beautiful face could only get someone to do what she wanted... if she wanted something. She would do whatever it took to get it. She would become whoever it took to succeed and achieve success to fulfill her dreams...even if that meant having sex with total strangers.  But only if her clients were willing to pay the price.
So, she was very careful about whom she let into her bed.  Even though she didn’t care that much about her clients, she had learned enough about them to know that their feelings weren’t necessarily ones that could withstand a lot of pressure. So, she decided that she wouldn’t take advantage of her clients unless it was necessary.  And since it often came to that, especially when her clients were wealthy or powerful, she felt justified in doing whatever she had to to ensure her success.
She was now twenty-two, living an exceptionally successful life in Atlanta. 

Chapter 1: A Fateful Encounter

Serenity adjusted the strap of her stiletto heels, ensuring they were securely fastened before standing up from her vanity mirror. She took one last look at her reflection, her ebony skin glowing under the soft, warm lights of her apartment. Tonight, she wasn't just Serenity the nurse; she was Serenity the escort, a role she had grown accustomed to over the years.

As she slipped into her elegant black dress, Serenity couldn't help but feel a rush of anticipation mingled with a hint of nervousness. Meeting new clients always brought a mix of emotions, but she prided herself on her ability to maintain control in any situation. After all, it was this control that had allowed her to support her siblings and herself through college and beyond.

Running her fingers through her hair, Serenity took a deep breath, steeling herself for the night ahead. She glanced at the clock on her bedside table. It was almost time to leave.

Grabbing her purse, she double-checked that she had everything she needed: phone, keys, and a small canister of pepper spray tucked discreetly inside. Satisfied, she made her way to the door, her mind already shifting into professional mode.

Outside, the sounds of New York City greeted her: the distant honking of cars, and the murmur of voices on the street below. Serenity hailed a cab, slipping into the backseat with practiced ease.