Page 4 of Sangre
“It sucks, dude. That’s why I prefer going with the club women. They know the score, we have fun, and no one gets hurt. It’s a definite win-win.”
“Yeah. Did you come with Army and Brutus?”
Chains picked up his beer bottle. “Just Army. Brutus was occupied with Ruby.”
Sangre chuckled. “The band that’s on now isn’t bad. I’ve seen them before at Lion’s Lair. They’re local.”
“I’ve seen them too. The drummer’s the cousin of one of my friends. When does your band get on?”
“After this one.”
“Did I miss anything?” Army said, squeezing between Chains and Sangre.
“Nope.” Sangre scooted the barstool down a bit.
“Hey, dudes,” Skull said as he came toward the trio, two teenage girls straggling behind him.
“This is so cool,” the dark-haired girl said, snapping pictures with her phone.
“Go sit over there.” Skull pointed to a table not too far from the bar.
“Aren’t you going to introduce me to your friends?” she asked, her eyes scanning over Sangre’s face.
“Guys, this is my sister, Ella, and her friend, Zoe. Now both of you go sit at the table. I’ll bring you a couple of Cokes.”
Ella came closer to Sangre and pointed at his arms. “Cool tats.”
“Thanks.” He brought the shot glass to his lips.
“Who’s the one guarding Isla Rose?” she asked.
“Ella. Go over and sit down,” Skull said, giving her a little push.
“My company’s been hired to make sure she’s safe. I heard you’re a fan of the band,” Sangre said.
“I love, love, LOVE them!”
“Me too,” Zoe chirpped in, her curly hair bouncing around her shoulders as she moved in closer to Sangre.
“That’s cool. They’re coming on next,” he said.
“They’re headlining.” Ella looked over her shoulder at the stage. “Have you met Arsen yet?” Her brown eyes widened.
“I haven’t met any of them yet. I’m just checking out the music.”And seeing if anyone is acting weird or suspicious in the crowd.
“He’s the lead guitarist, and he’s so good. Way better than anyone out there.”
“For sure,” Zoe agreed.
“Better than Tony Iommi?” Sangre asked, a smile twitching on his lips.
“Who?” Ella asked.
“Is he in a local band?” Zoe said.
“Not only is he the Black Sabbath riff lord, he’s the founder of metal music.” Sangre turned to Skull. “How the fuck does your sister not know this?”
He held his hands up in front of him, laughing. “Don’t blame me. I’ve been on my own since I was eighteen. My mom’s favorite singer is Madonna. What can I say?” Sangre, Army, and Chains busted out laughing.
