Chapter 1: Introduction
The Hooters near the beach is typically packed with horny sunburnt dudes, old wrinkly men who probably shouldn't be ogling women, and the occasional local miscreants, plus me, Letisha.
I spent years of my life dreaming to work here. The bright orange walls and the unmistakable Hooters logo of an irresistibly perky owl welcomed me like a long-lost friend. A wave of nerves hit me when I saw the sea of men leering around.
I was not used to being the center of attention like this, especially from horny, wild dudes. I couldn't help but miss my time with Daun from nine years ago, and how much I lusted after him, even when he was married. The woman he was married to didn't appreciate him like I did, but alas, that love story faded into history.
I smoothed out my Hooters uniform, ensuring the lack of a bra was as discreet as possible under the tight white tank top.
I wasn't exactly used to going braless, especially at work, but somehow the idea of Daun catching a glimpse was more alluring than terrifying. I wore the Hooters outfit with pride, even if I skipped the panties.
As I was making my way through the crowd, daunted but determined, I spotted him—Daun. His muscular physique was draped over a bar stool, chatting casually with another waitress. My heart jumped as adrenaline surged through me.
When I left him years ago, I never imagined our paths would cross again. His charming smile and muscular form were more enticing than any man I’d ever met.
I mustered the courage to approach him, juggling a shaky tray with an untouched glass of iced tea and a sizzling plate of hot wings. My nerves were a tangled mess, but I soldiered on.
At least the short shorts helped keep me grounded, covering my half-naked backside that would have otherwise been left to the mercy of the gentle ocean breeze. I took a deep breath and focused on the perfected balance I'd acquired during my waitressing training. I've got this, I said to myself.
As I neared him, an unexpected clumsiness overtook me. Of course, it'd be Daun, of all people, who I'd spill a drink on.
A full glass of Coke—yes, Coke—teetered on the brink of the tray, and Daun-freaking-Hunter, my long-lost love interest, was in the direct line of fire.
I managed to save the hot wings, but I wasn't that lucky with the Coke. With a beleaguered sigh, gravity took its vengeance, and icy liquid poured down Daun's gym shorts, staining them in one swift motion.
A series of curses shot out from his lips.