by Jacob Chance
Entranced, I watch as she lowers her foot to the ground, widening her stance. Bending at the waist, she slowly drops forward, arching her back until her weight is supported with both hands on the seat. Fuck me. I’m getting turned on just watching her.
The group dances for about thirty seconds more before the song ends. Ear-splitting applause rings out and they hurry from the stage.
With each new song, different dancers appear and I continually search for ‘Legs’ as I’ve named her, but I don’t see any sign of her.
The waitress delivers another round of drinks for us and I slowly sip on my beer. What’s Perri doing tonight? Is she out with some other guy? A guy she deems worthy of dating?
Pinching the bridge of my nose, I do my best to drive all thoughts of her from my mind. I’m out with friends, drinking some cold beers and watching half naked girls dance. Not a bad way to spend a night. When I lower my hand, I notice a solo dancer on the stage standing between two white lengths of material hanging from floor to ceiling. Sitting up straight, I set my beer down and pay attention. This should be interesting.
Long hair as black as midnight ripples down past her shoulders in rolling waves, ending at the bottom of her red sports bra. My eyes slide lower taking in the tight, matching hot pants that hug her ass perfectly. Her legs are long and leanly muscled for her average height. My breath halts for a second. Is this Legs? I haven’t seen the front of her yet, but the back view sure resembles her.
The first musical notes begin and her hands grip the white silk on either side of her head. She jumps, supporting her weight with both hands, legs stretched straight while slowly rotating around. Raising her knees to her chest, she holds the two lengths of fabric together and climbs upward. One hand over another, further and further she nimbly scrambles while my heart races.
She flips over until she’s inverted between the two columns of material and the audience gasps. Her legs open into a split position as she rotates in a circle, and my eyes go wide. The strength required to do these moves is awe inspiring and the manner she’s executing them is so graceful. She makes it look effortless.
She continues to sensually wind herself in the silks until she’s able to let go with both hands. Suspended by the white material wrapped around her leg, I watch transfixed as she repeatedly changes positions. There’s no safety net beneath her as a precaution. What if she falls?
As if she hears me, she plunges head first toward the stage and my strangled gasp gets stuck in my throat. Slowing her fall by shifting her grip on the silks at the last second, she stops with her head only inches from the floor. She elegantly lowers each leg and straightens up until she’s standing. Releasing the silks, she walks toward the front of the stage amidst the applause, smiling widely. She stops, taking a moment to catch her breath while soaking in the patrons’ adoration. I finally get a clear look at her face. Holy shit. It’s Perri.
She’s wearing a lot of makeup, but I would recognize those eyes anywhere. Not to mention those lips, and some other body parts. Fuck.
I should’ve figured no one else could have a pair of legs that rivaled hers. Now that I know what her job is, I’m not surprised they’re so attractive.
Perri notices me only seconds after I’ve realized it’s her. Brown irises go wide enough that I can clearly see the white rim all the way around them. She looks panicked, like a cornered wild animal, just before she scurries from the stage.
“Wow, that was hot,” Flynn comments.
I’m too distracted to be annoyed at his words. I can’t believe what I just watched Perri do. She’s even more incredible than I realized. If I thought I was having a hard time forgetting about her before, after tonight, there’s no way I’ll be able to wipe one hundred different images of her arching and twisting temptingly. I’m in so much trouble.
Chapter Five
Perri
Pausing at the edge of the stage, I stare out into the crowd. The spotlights shining in my eyes prevent me from seeing beyond the first row of tables. I act as though I can see each individual in attendance, smiling at them as they holler and applaud. I love dancing. I started as a young child and it’s in my blood. I’m never happier than when I’m on the stage getting lost in my routine. Aerial performing is something I’m newer to, but no less passionate about.
Peering down at the table directly in front of me, I notice a group of college-age guys. I recognize Clancy Wilde, the captain of the hockey team, and my gaze wanders over the others. It’s only when I get to the last person, in the chair closest to the stage, that my knees go weak. Nolan Archer stares intently up at me. It was bad enough seeing him at the library today. Having him here, knowing he was watching me dance has me breathless. My legs shake as I attempt to decipher what the intense look in his eyes means. I’d say desire, but that would be crazy. He doesn’t want me. He made that clear this afternoon when I saw him. He callously dismissed me when his model girlfriend showed up. I guess I deserved such treatment, but just the same, it hurt.
Dragging my eyes from him, I take a final bow and scurry from the stage on trembling legs. Once I’m out back, I bend over and put my hands on my knees. Gulping in deep breaths of air, I endeavor to calm myself down.
Why am I so worked up just because Nolan is here? He’s no different than any of the other patrons. Maybe if I keep reminding myself of that, eventually I’ll believe those words.
Straightening up, I move toward the dressing room to change. I’m done for the night and all I want to do is get out of here as quickly as possible.
“Hey, Perri. We’re grabbing drinks after everyone’s done. Do you want to come?” Emma, one of the other dancers, discloses when I enter the dressing room.
Sinking down onto the bench with a groan, I shake my head. “Not tonight. I’m pretty tired.” And I’m shaken from seeing Nolan. “Maybe next time.”
“Okay, but there are some cute guys in the audience. Sure you don’t want to hang around and talk to them?”
“Yeah, I’m sure.” Thanks, but no thanks. Talk to them? Not likely. All I want to do is get the hell out of here before all the performances are done. Once they’re finished the lights will come up and there’s nothing preventing Nolan from talking to me if I’m out by the bar.
“How’s school going?” Emma continues the conversation. I guess how flustered I am isn’t as obvious as I thought.
“It’s been busy. I’ve been covering B.U. sports in addition to my usual column.” I slip some socks on and then pull jeans up over my bare legs, fastening them as quickly as my uncooperative fingers will allow.
I tug a thermal shirt over my head. “How’d your audition go the other day? I meant to ask you earlier and didn’t have a chance.” Slipping my arms in the sleeves, I tug the material down to my waist. I add a thick fleece pullover and scoop my hair out from underneath the collar.
Emma twists her hair up into a ponytail. “It went well. I didn’t get the job, but I felt better about this one. Maybe I’m gaining some confidence at least.”
I offer her a smile. I like that she’s looking for something positive she can take away from the rejection. If you want a career as a professional dancer you have to remain hopeful. It can take years before you catch a break.
“You know it’s a marathon, not a sprint. I think all the experience you’re gaining will be a great help.” I slide my feet into my Ugg boots and sigh with relief at the instant comfort and warmth they provide.
“Yep, you’re right. I hope I can keep an upbeat outlook. At least I have this job until something better comes along.”
“Right. This isn’t a bad gig.” I dig through my bag until I find my pink winter hat with the white pom pom on top and yank it down over my ears. The matching gloves go on last. I double check that my phone is in my bag and clutch my car keys in my fist. “I wish I could stay and hang out, but I’ve got to catch up on some sleep.”
Emma dismisses my apology with a wave of her hand. “No worries. I’ll see you tomorrow night.
”
“You sure will. Have a drink for me.”
Leaving the dressing room, I hurry down the hallway to the back exit.
“Perri,” a deep voice calls out and my stomach takes a tumble. I slowly turn, expecting to see Nolan. I exhale with relief when I see it’s Aaron, one of Score’s bouncers.
“Hey.”
“Let me walk you to your car. You shouldn’t be out there by yourself.”
“That’s sweet of you, but I’ll be fine.”
He raises a brow. “I’m not taking no for an answer. I keep telling you ladies to leave in groups. Why doesn’t anyone ever listen to me?”
“I usually walk out with someone, but tonight I’m in a rush.”
“Then what are you arguing with me for? Let’s go.” He pushes open the thick steel door, kicking the wooden wedge on the floor in place to hold the door from locking. “So when are you going to let me take you out?”
“Aren’t you married?” I question incredulously.
“We’re separated and about to start divorce proceedings.”
I arch a brow at him. “Maybe you should get through with one relationship before you start another one?”
He laughs, “You might be right.”
We reach my car and I pat him on the arm. “Of course I am.” I wink. “Thanks for walking me out.”
“Don’t mention it.” Aaron steps back as I open my door and slip inside. He waits for my car to start up. Once it’s running he gives me a thumbs up and heads back inside.
Leaning my head on the seat, I wait for the car to warm up and think about Aaron’s invitation. I never expected or wanted him to ask me out, but this is the story of my life. The guys I like never seem to return my affections. Or if they do, they’re terrified to be involved with me because they know who my father is and I’m scared of disappointing him. Although, it’s never been a problem until now.
Shifting into drive as the vents begin to blow warm air, I navigate my way safely out onto Tremont Street and begin my drive home.
“Eliza, he was sitting there watching me the whole time and I never realized.”
She licks ketchup from the corner of her lip. “It’s probably a good thing you didn’t see him before your performance.”
“How do you figure?” I pop a french fry in my mouth.
“If seeing him affected you so much it might’ve made it hard for you to perform. You might have fallen to your death.”
I roll my eyes. She’s so dramatic sometimes. “What makes you think I was bothered by him being there?” I take a bite of my sandwich.
Eliza purses her lips and stares pointedly at me. “I can tell by your reaction.”
“I was just surprised to see someone I knew.”
She grabs a fry from her plate, dipping the end in the mound of ketchup and pauses. “Yeah, yeah. Keep telling yourself that. I’ll just wait for you to admit you like him.” She shoves the fry in her mouth and tips her head to the side studying me.
“What?” I shrug as if her words aren’t on point. “He’s a nice guy.”
“He is. And the fact that he’s gorgeous hasn’t registered with you at all?”
“No, I agree that he’s attractive.”
“And do you admit you like him?”
“I don’t remember saying I disliked him.”
“Grrr. You’re so frustrating.” She throws her hands up in the air and then points at me. “You know what I mean.”
“Fine. Don’t have a coronary trying to prove a point. He’s hot and nice. And I might like him; a little. But you know my dad’s stance on jocks. So, no matter how much I may like him, it doesn’t matter. There. Are you satisfied?”
Eliza smiles like someone who got their way. “I knew I could get you to admit you have feelings for him.”
“Don’t exaggerate the situation. Thinking someone is hot doesn’t necessarily equate to having feelings for him. I’m barely acquainted with the guy. Besides, I think he has a girlfriend.”
She scowls. “Who?”
“I have no idea what her name is, but she’s tall, blonde, and beautiful. I saw him at the library yesterday and she showed up while we were talking. Needless to say, he forgot I was standing there as soon as he saw her.”
“I find that hard to believe with the way he was looking at you that morning we went to breakfast.”
“I promise you, it’s true. Besides, that was more than a couple of weeks ago. Everything you’ve been arguing about with me is most likely pointless. If he has a girlfriend, then he’s as good as dead to me. I won’t steal someone’s man away. I shouldn’t have to.”
“You’re right. You’ll find someone who wants you and won’t let anything stand in their way.”
“Like you and Owen?” I grin.
“We’re taking it one day at a time.”
“Sure you are.”
“We’re not talking about Owen and me, we’re talking about you and Nolan.”
“Eliza, there is no me and Nolan. It’s better that I blew any chance of anything happening between us because you know the rules. Jocks are off limits.” I shrug one shoulder. “I’m busy with school and work anyway.”
“We’ll see what happens. I have a feeling it’s not over.”
“I think your imagination is working overtime.”
“Are you done with those fries?” Eliza aims her fork at what remains of my lunch.
I slide the plate toward her with my fingertips. “Go for it.” She needs them more than I do. Eliza is one of those annoying girls who can eat anything she wants and never gain a pound. If I didn’t love her so much, I could hate her for that reason alone. We’re cousins and we may share the same genes, but somehow that one skipped me. Her frame is gently curved and lean, while my curves are more abundant. I love food and have to watch what I eat. A sandwich and fries aren’t ideal for me to be consuming, but due to limited time we got stuck having lunch at school.
“When are you and Owen going out next?”
She smiles. “Tonight. He didn’t tell me where he was taking me. And don’t be surprised if I don’t come home.”
“Really?” My voice is filled with surprise.
“Yep. I think it’s time to take our relationship to the next level.”
“All I’m going to say is have fun and be safe.”
Chapter Six
Nolan
I may as well have skipped all my classes today. I didn’t absorb any of the material discussed. Perri’s been on my mind nonstop. All fucking day. Slinking and spinning through my thoughts like she did on the stage last night. Fuck me. I’ve never seen anyone move so provocatively without even trying. Everything about Perri is naturally alluring. She’s the girl you can’t take your eyes off. And after last night’s performance, I’m stuck in her web, helpless like a fly waiting for a spider to do its worst.
By the time dinner has rolled around, I’ve almost convinced myself it probably wasn’t even Perri at the club. Maybe she has a doppleganger with legs just like hers. Why would she be working as a burlesque dancer?
“What are you going to do with all your free time now that football is over?” Clancy questions from his seat across from me at the table.
“The holiday break is almost here so I’ll go home to Vermont. When I come back I’ll be in the gym more than usual trying to improve for next season.” I shrug resignedly. “What else can I do? We can’t go back in time and win the game.”
He nods, sending his shoulder length hair free falling into his eyes. He rakes a hand through the thick mass before tugging a black elastic from his pocket and fastening the sandy blond strands into a ponytail.
I raise my head in his direction. “Do you ever think of cutting all that off?” It must be annoying as fuck having all that hair. I skim my hand over my short cut.
Clancy gives a brief shake of his head. “Nah, believe it or not, this is easier for me to take care of.”
“Really?”
“Yeah. My hair gets curly when i
t’s short and it’s a mess. I don’t like to fuck around and have to spend time making it look good. At least this way I can shower and go and pull it back when needed.”
“Right.”
He smirks. “Besides, the chicks dig my hair. And who am I to let them down by cutting it?”
I laugh, “Wouldn’t want to disappoint your fans.”
“Exactly. Not to mention, I have an image to uphold for hockey and the hair helps.”
“What do you mean?”
“You don’t know what they call me?”
Darren shakes his head. “Oh brother, here we go.” I must not be the first person Clancy has told this to.
“Sorry, bro. I’ve been too busy with football to pay attention, but I plan on making some hockey games.”
“No worries.”
“Dude, just get on with it.” Darren shakes his head.
“I’m ‘the Wilde man’. Or at least that’s what they nicknamed me. I think it’s kind of silly, but what can I do?” Clancy grins, his white teeth a flash against his thick beard, and I can tell he thinks the attention and his nickname are cool as shit.
“I’m sure you’re really bothered by that cool nickname,” I laugh.
“Here, guys.” Flynn steps inside from the back deck, setting down a platter with grilled burgers and dogs on it. “Fuck, it’s cold out there.” He shivers and rubs his hands together.
I grab a bun from the middle of the table and fork a burger on it. Clancy and Darren use their fingers to pick theirs up. Fucking savages. I think my mom would’ve had a breakdown if I acted like them at the dinner table.
I glance at Flynn as he drops onto a vacant chair. “Thanks for cooking all this. I can’t wait to bite into this burger. Who’s idea was it to grill out anyway?”
Clancy raises his hand. “That would be me.”
