Obsession

I

The stage lights are hot as they flicker over me in an array of vibrant colors. It almost feels as if they are suffocating me in the spotlight.

I exhale a deep breath as I go about my usual routine, swinging my legs around the pole, my hips rocking to the beat as ongoers toss dollar bills my way.

I managed to become a crowd pleaser, one of the favorites. My earnings would increase each night. Although I have lost all of my self respect going into this line of work, I must admit the pay is decent, which is a sickening truth. My body is their own entertainment.

One of my biggest paying customers was seated at one of the tables in the front. The dim lights made it hard to see his face, but I knew by the outline of his buff physique, and top brand suit that it was him. He was seated at his usual table, steel eyes pinned on me. I couldn't hide the small shiver that ran down my spine at his fervent gaze.

The beat was slow and enticing, as I moved my waist in time. I lured in a few more ongoers, green dollars being thrown my way.

I closed my eyes, my heart beating in my ears as I tried concentrating on the rhythm, finding a groove.

When I opened my eyes, it was already my time to switch out with another girl, Ruby, who was new to the place. I descended down the stage, patting her shoulder as I passed her, and flashed her a small smile. It wasnt easy being the newbie, I knew that much.

I reached the dressing room and changed out of my current ...costume into my next, as I would leisurely talk with patrons, hoping to make a few extra dollars. Before leaving, I caught a glimpse of myself in one of the large mirrors situated in a corner. I could feel the frown deepening on my features.

The black lace wrapped around my body, the heels accenting the dark look. My hair was curled, bouncing off my back. My make-up was heavy, my eyes dark and alluring.

I hated all of it. This wasn't me.

Quickly turning, I had just closed the door to the dressing room when I felt two hands gently caress my sides. I jumped, pivoting around only to be met with two, dark, steel eyes. They were unmistakable, the familiarity and relief pouring over me.

"Kryos," I breathed his name gently, my smile returning. It was more forced than natural.

"Roxanne," he greeted in return, his hand resting on the small of my back as he led me to his table.

Kryos was quite an odd customer. He was a regular, here almost every night. He only showed up during my hours, and left after I'd make my way to the dressing rooms to go home.

He'd pay me a large fee for simply chatting with him. I'm not complaining about that. To keep him company, that was all he ever wanted from me. It was a nice change when he started showing up.

This was our usual routine. He'd catch me, fresh off the stage before any other patron could get to me. Then, he'd take me to our usual spot and pay me at least three hundred every night to stay with him and talk. When my shift would come to an end, he'd escort me back to the changing rooms and see me off.

Kryos didn't want any other man to have my attention, and I didn't see any harm in that.

We finally reached his table, a cold Budweiser dripping with sweat as it rested there, his typical drink. I cocked a brow, my smile widening. "You never change."

He mirrored my expression, seating himself on the stool before sipping at his alcohol. "Is that so bad, Roxanne?"

I shrugged in response. "I suppose not, but it doesn't hurt to mix things up once in a while."