Page 70 of Finding Us
“Your pole skills are amazing,” she says. “I was in awe watching you today.”
“Thanks.”
“Have you ever thought of stripping? You’d clean up if you did … I can put in a good word for you with Rocco if you want.”
“I appreciate the offer, but I enjoy working here.”
“Fair enough. If you ever change your mind, I’m your girl.”
My lips curve into a smile, I like her enthusiasm. She reminds me a lot of Cassie. “Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind,” I say, even though I know I’d never take her up on that offer. I have nothing against strippers, it’s just not something I’d ever feel comfortable doing.
“I was wondering if you do private lessons?”
“I’ll need to talk to my boss, but I’m sure that can be arranged.”
“You’re the best,” she says, throwing her arms around me and pulling me into a crushing hug. “I’m so excited to work with you.”
I close my bedroom door and hold my phone up to my face as I take a seat on the side of my bed. “She said she could get me a job as a stripper,” I whisper down the line, which of course has Cassie howling with laughter. “Hey, it’s not unrealistic. I know how to work a pole.”
“Jaz,” she says, looking into the camera with a straight face. “Come on. You and I both know you’d never get up on stage and strip for a room full of men.”
“I’ve performed on plenty of stages before.”
“Dancing to a room full of parents … completely different.”
“Some of them were men.”
“You were wearing clothes, and the majority were only in attendance because their wives made them come.”
“Ugh.”
“You know I’m right.”
“Whatever. So how are things going down in Melbourne?” I ask, changing the subject.
“Don’t ask.”
“Are you still working the campaign trail with your dad?”
“I’m in the pits of hell. The moment the cameras are off they immediately dismiss me. I feel so used.”
“Ah, babe, I’m sorry they treat you that way.”
“I’m sick of being poked and prodded. My mum even gave me a list to study, things I can and can’t say in public. Like I don’t know how to act like a lady when needed? Sheesh. I mean, at least they’re giving me attention for once, but still …” I hate the way they treat her. Can’t they see how much she yearns for their love? “Look what she had me wearing today.” She walks over to her dresser and holds up a strand of pearls, which in turn has me laughing. “It’s not funny. It’s not the type of pearl necklace I’m used to.”
“Eww.”
“My mum said it would pair perfectly with the beige, cashmere cardigan she bought me. Beige, Jaz.”
“There’s nothing wrong with the colour beige.”
“Right. Tell me one woman that willingly wears beige?”
“Terri and Bindi Irwin.”
“I’m pretty sure that’s khaki.”
“It’s beige-ish.”
