che lo prometta sincera e dal cuore,
che si possa per tutta la vita
mantener questo patto inviolabile.”
All eyes were on me now, anticipating, optimistic, ready to swoon if they hadn’t already, waiting for the translation of our little charade that was doomed to turn into chaos.
“But the heart doesn’t listen to reason
This love of ours, my life
I predict will be happy
destined to last forever.
Gods in heaven, do what you deem to be true
what promises to be sincere and from the heart,
that can for a lifetime
keep this inviolable covenant.”
I smiled for the audience as they saluted Fabio’s choice of poem that truly captured the moment—their words, not mine—bracing for what was to come. Fletcher was bound to attack.
“Wow. That’s incredible, isn’t it?” Fletcher started. “What did you say you did for a living again?”
Here we go.
“I’m a dancer,” Fabio said.
“What kind of dancer?”
“Revue.”
“Revue?” Fletcher sang. “An all-male revue show like a male stripper show danced in strip clubs like Poles?”
“Exactly. Would you like to visit? I can give you a discount.”
“I don’t think I’m your audience.”
“But you sound so very interested in what I do. You must be curious. It’s okay. We don’t kinkshame or judge. You like what you like.”
“I’m not interested in watching thong-wearing men getting grabbed by a horde of ladies. But it looks like Gabi does.” Fletcher peered at me. “How do you feel about that?”
The place hummed with astonished noises and disapproving glares, some at Fabio and me, others at Fletcher. Rina and Nora patted my arm and shoulder.
“I feel great. Thank you for asking,” I said.
He switched his gaze back to Fabio. “Do they teach you to recite poems at the strip club like they teach you how to keep thongs from irritating the crack of your butt when you dance? It must be a literal pain in the ass.”
“That dick,” Rina gritted.
“Not when your ass looks like mine,” Fabio retorted. “Why do you ask? Do you have problems with your own thongs? Do you need some pointers? I can totally help.”
A laugh erupted from my throat. A few people started to laugh, too, including the two ladies standing by my side. I underestimated Fabio. He was sharper when he was drunk.
Fletcher’s face turned two shades darker. “Is stripping your only job, Fab? Or do you escort as well?”
