Chapter 1: Introduction
My stilettos clicked against the pavement every time I made my way down the busy streets of New York City—the music of the night. I glanced at my reflection in a window as I passed. Long blonde hair tumbled down my shoulders in soft waves, a red bandana tied around my waist stood out like a cherry on a sundae against my long, black tank dress. My deep blue eyes popped with makeup that emphasized rather than hid their innocence. I had the face that got me carded daily with a body made for sin.
But beneath it all, I was just Alice Smith, going to nightclubs with my friends on a Friday night.
As we entered the pulsating scene of the popular trendy nightclub, I couldn’t help but marvel at the glitz of the entrance that drew us in, the sea of shimmering bodies that swayed and gyrated on the dancefloor, and the bottles of vodka as they made their way around from one table to another.
My dark-haired friend, Olivia, snagged our usual table right near the stage.
We'd come here often enough to have a favorite spot—one that allowed us to be close to the show yet away from the thumping crowds.
"Alice, don’t you want to meet someone new tonight?” Olivia shouted over the bass. She had already downed half a glass of amber liquid, her cheeks flushed with its effects.
I patted my crimson lips with a napkin, then shrugged. "I’m enjoying watching."
Olivia rolled her eyes, gripping her glass like a lifeline.
"Darling, you've got to let go sometimes. Don't you want a little excitement in your life?"
A smiled tugged at the corner of my lips. "Isn't that what we're here for?"
An unexpected hush fell over the crowd. I heard his voice before I even saw him—deep, intoxicating, and confident. The Erotic Hypnotist was holding court on stage. Patrons were captivated by his presence. I leaned in, unable to resist that voice.
His mysterious eyes flicked around the room, scanning each and every face. I could feel my curiosity piqued. Who was this elusive figure?
"Just look into my eyes," he commanded, his voice sultry and smooth. The crowd, mesmerized, followed suit, and the room fell silent. I was surprised to find myself obeying him too, my own gaze locked with his, caught in his spell.
He spoke softly, each word washing over me like velvet. "Imagine yourself somewhere sensual, somewhere you’ve never been.