Page 1 of Silver

One

Daphne

* * *

What the hell am I thinking?

I can’t go through with this.

But I have no choice.

I’ve worked too hard to get into this university only to have to give up my dream over a simple lack of funds for room and board.

I wring my hands together as I watch the performer before me from the side of the stage. She told me she makes more money in one night than I make in a week waiting tables.

I need this.

I can do this.

I can strip down to a G-string and dance for cash.

Glancing down at my body, I try to shake off the nerves. I don’t recognize myself in this skimpy pink-sequined skirt and bra. Never in my life have I stepped into a public space this scantily clad. I’ve also never worn heels this high. It will be a miracle if I don’t fall.

With a deep breath, I try to focus, but I’m consumed by thoughts of him.

The man who terrorized me two weeks ago.

The man who threatened me and told me he’d be watching.

What if he was serious? What if he’s been following me? What if he’s waiting in the audience to watch me?

“You’re up next, Daphne.”

I jerk my gaze to the side where my new boss is pointing toward the stage. “Thirty seconds. As soon as Sugar comes off, you go on.” He turns and walks away.

I think I’m going to hyperventilate. This is madness. How did my life come to this?

Suddenly, an arm comes around my waist from behind. Squealing, I’m lifted off my feet. A hand covers my mouth as I’m hauled away from the wing and into the darkness backstage.

My adrenaline kicks in full force, and I fight against whoever grabbed me with all my might. How can this be happening? I’m at work. This is a place of business. There are people all around.

Except where is everyone? A minute ago, this left wing beside the stage was bustling with activity. Now there’s no one.

I’m pulled into a costume closet. Whoever it is kicks the door closed before spinning me around, setting me on my platform heels, and flattening me against the door.

The lights are on, and I can see clearly. I gasp. “Silver?”

He slams his hands on either side of my head and glares at me. “What the fuck are you doing here, Daphne?”

I’m breathing so heavily, all I can do is set a trembling hand on my chest and stare at him.

He says nothing. He’s waiting. He asked me a question.

My math tutor? “What are you doing here?” I ask, infuriated. I’m supposed to be on stage now. I’ll get fired before I’ve even started for disappearing at the last second. I doubt my boss would give me another chance. My one opportunity to prove myself just slipped away.

Silver growls. “I asked you a question. Answer me. What. The fuck. Are. You. Doing. Here?”

I stand tall, my fear ebbing away, though I’m not sure that’s a good thing. He may be my math tutor, but right now, he’s the guy who just manhandled me and stuffed me into a closet backstage. “What does it look like I’m doing, asshole?”