Dark Alley: Stranger (Dark Alley #1)

Four

Alice returned to the entrance with a steady step. Even though she felt worn out, the satisfaction that had conjured a smile on her face, also made her feet move on their own.

Big Guy was waiting for her just as when she returned the entrance to the dark alley, and again there was the same serious expression on his face, telling her to stop right in front of him.

She suppressed the giggle as she reminded herself that he still had her belongings. With a friendly smile, he handed over her purse. Tucked inside were her ID, her keys, and her phone – which reminded her that she had to call Bianca as soon as she stepped out on Elm Street.

"I trust you've enjoyed your stay with us?" Big Guy asked, genuinely, and Alice instantly nodded before she could think twice.

"Yes, very," she added, feeling shy all of the sudden.

"Good," Big Guy approved and turned slightly, obviously to get something. "Your partner was very pleased as well, and has spoken in your favor, which means–" he handed her a large black envelope, "–that you can join the club if you are interested."

Alice blinked in confusion, but took the item from him. The envelope had a matte finish with no writing on it. She tilted her head a little and gave Big Guy a questioning look, which he returned with a broad smile.

"All the information you need is in this envelope," he explained. "That you are receiving this is already a huge sign of trust. You aren't allowed to share the information with anyone, nor should you mention the receipt of this envelope to anyone."

"First rule of Fight Club, don't talk about Fight Club," Alice murmured while she peeked inside.

"Pretty much," Big Guy chuckled and pointed at the paper in her hand. "If you agree with the terms and sign the contract in there, bring it back to me. After that, you will have the status of a probational member. If you are accepted by the board of premium members, you can give yourself a name. It's all in there. Read it with caution."

Alice smirked and looked up at the doorman.

"Do you think I'm not up to it?" she asked.

"Many women think they are, only to chicken out," Big Guy shrugged in response, and Alice nodded.

It did make sense. She wasn't sure if this wasn't too much for her either. Still, the memory of her adventure of just a few moments ago was strong. Good sex without strings, without awkward mornings after. This was too good to be true.

Big Guy suddenly brought his right hand up to his ear.

"Your car is waiting for you," he explained and Alice frowned again in confusion. "King of Diamonds insisted on providing you a safe way home," he added.

"King of Diamonds?" Alice repeated.

"Your partner for tonight," Big Guy smiled widely and she reasoned that these men either liked each other or King of Diamonds was good with tips. "That is his code name. Once you are a full member, you can give yourself a name like that, too."

"Card game name?" Alice dug deeper.

"All sorts of names, Miss," Big Guy answered. "There's a White Rabbit, too, for example."

She nodded, and wondered what she would call herself once she was a full member. A shudder ran through her body, if she wanted to be a full member. Then she remembered the car, but Big Guy already seemed to know her question.

"The cars are provided by the club," he explained, "and therefore your address will stay unknown to other members. This service is exclusively for the VIP members, who support the club financially."