He's the Boss (Dance with Me #1): Boss-Employee Romance

Chapter 25: Beginnings & Endings

Brooke

The rhythmic pulse of a popular dance track vibrates through us as we approach Midnight Frenzy. Sharing an excited grin with Jemma, we shift our focus to the pair of excited young women leading our group. Belle and Ash are in the throes of an animated conversation, their enthusiasm proving infectious as Jemma seems to be gradually embracing the night's excitement.

An underlying tension has been clinging to my best friend since she picked us up, only now seeming to ebb away after our journey to the club. Her posture is more relaxed, her features softer. I'm itching to delve into what's been bothering her, but Jemma isn't likely to open up with Belle and Ash present.

Jemma drifts closer, her arm lightly nudging mine. "Remember your first time?" she teases.

I snort at her playful double entendre.

Five months prior, Jemma introduced me to Midnight Frenzy and I experienced its magic. Now it's Belle's turn to step into this vibrant hub and experience the thrill that enthralled me that night. Ever since Linc vowed to organise an underage night at the club, I've eagerly anticipated sharing this electrifying atmosphere with my sister. Naturally, the moment Ash heard the plan was in motion, she insisted on joining us.

"This must be your sister," Shane remarks as we reach the entrance of the club.

"The resemblance is uncanny," Mick chimes in.

"Mick, Shane, meet my sister Belle and her best friend, Ash."

"Welcome to the club, ladies," Shane greets, lifting the thick red velvet rope.

As we thank him and step through the entryway, Belle's beaming smile is a sight to behold. I find myself mirroring her reaction as I recall my own first encounter with the club. Her awe-struck expression and stunned silence, followed by an ecstatic shriek that propels her into Ash's arms, doesn't disappoint. Their unison squeals of delight while they bounce around in a shared embrace pull a giggle from me.

I scan the scene, taking in the club as I imagine Belle just has: a dance floor teeming with bodies, a fully staffed bar ready to handle the night's demands. Though tonight, without any alcohol to serve due to the underage crowd, my team will primarily be dishing out soft drinks and water.

As Belle's gaze veers towards the stage, mine follows. Tonight, she'll witness the energy of Tease's performance. Even with the troupe delivering a toned-down routine, I'm certain it will leave her in awe.

My eyes wander to find Linc, and I spot him approaching, a warm wave to signal his arrival. He reaches us and instantly wraps an arm around my waist, drawing me close. His lips press against mine in a fervent kiss, as if it's been a year rather than just a few hours since we last saw each other. As always, my body succumbs to his touch, melting into his embrace.

"Hey," he whispers, his voice husky.

"Hey."

The resonant chords of a favourite R&B track fill the air, enticing me to sway with Linc. But tonight, my first dance is reserved for Belle—I want her to fully immerse herself in this vibrant experience.

Ash gazes up at Linc, her eyes wide, looking as if she's on the brink of a fangirl meltdown. I've just witnessed the club's charm through Belle's perspective, and now I'm experiencing Linc's allure through Ash's. She appears star-struck, momentarily speechless, and I can't help but grin. Linc's magnetism has that effect—he's the most charismatic man I've ever known, and I too was rendered speechless the first night we met.

Granted, I'd just watched him command the stage with a mesmerizing dance routine, so I had a fair reason.

"Linc, meet Ash. Ash, this is Lincoln Rivers," I introduce them.