Life isn't fair, and I am mad at the universe for what these kids have gone through, but I'm also taking this as a gift.
After the holidays those kids will be mine, legally, that is. I had guardianship over them, but now flipping through these papers on my desk, I am applying for adoption.
We all deserve a new, happy start, together.
Rosie pops her head into my office, frowning.
“Hey boss, so, we may have a problem. It seems we overbooked. Two parties, same time slot, and we only have half the staff.”
I sigh. Ugh, couldn't just have one night without drama it seems.
I had a hard enough time leaving the kids. Even Leena asked if she could come with me and just stay in my office.
Separation anxiety is going to be an issue for a few days. At least tomorrow is Christmas Eve so the club will be closed.
We will reopen on New Year's for a large event about resolutions and last minute fantasies.
It's usually one of our biggest days.
Taking my feet off my desk, I sit up and roll my chair closer to my phone.
“Okay, I will take the more demanding clients. Call June and see if she will come in. I’ll double her pay for the next few hours. Reach out to Patience too. She can handle the vanilla customers.”
She nods, then leaves.
I grab the other folder on my desk and quickly skim through the rest of the papers. A courier delivered it to me this morning.
I was so busy I hadn't had any time to see what it was.
“What the hell?” I mutter, rereading a paragraph. “You have got to be shitting me. Fucking asshole,” I growl.
Patrick is suing me for half the ownership and back pay of my club. He's stating I used joint funds to start my business. It's complete bullshit.
I worked at a strip club for a year, saving money to live and support myself. Then one night a wealthy man hired me for a private dance.
He had asked me what my hopes and dreams were, and I mentioned Fantasies. He was intrigued and offered to be a silent investor.
Grabbing my phone, I call Nixen Reynolds. I hate to put this shit on his plate, especially during the holidays, but I may need his help.
The last time we talked was three years ago, and I had signed some papers, taking over his shares of Fantasies.
I bought him out, but he wished to remain in the loop. He's hoping his son, Nathaniel might take an interest in my club when he comes of age.
The line rings a few times until I reach his voicemail. I leave him a quick message, then hang up and close my eyes.
I knew Patrick had been too quiet. He always loved to break me down.
Rosie returns, takes one look at me and calls Rock's name.
“No. I'm fine. What room do you need me in?”
“Shina, you look like you have seen a ghost. Is everything okay, babe?”
Tears fill my eyes and my hand shakes. I put on a fake smile and nod.
“Yeah, I'm all good. Ready for our break.”
She gives me a wary look over, then sighs and smiles. “Me too. I think maybe Gare is going to propose. He's been really secretive the past few weeks and overly excited for our trip to the mountains on Christmas.”
