Page 50 of Corporate Escapades

“You know exactly what I mean. What did you do?”

Vic burst out laughing. “You should’ve seen the look on your face!” he gasped.

Paris frowned.

Pulling himself together, he replied, “I texted him. I told him we had a bet and that I would be calling momentarily and that he was to reply that he was in the middle of a game of Strip Poker with some ladies from the office.”

“And he just obliged you? What is this world coming to?” she demanded.

“Come on, Paris, it was a joke. We joke around all the time. Your father is as human as the rest of us, and also a man. We’re like family. It isn't far-fetched that we can joke around with each other at times.”

“So, in reality, you didn’t get the question answered,” she pointed out.

“No, but I already know the answer. He’s told me a particular story from back in school, and I guarantee it proves my point. Don’t be upset,” he said. Paris had a bitter look on her face. He hated to see her angry. “Your father is a gentleman, but even gentlemen play games every now and again.”

“Maybe,” she replied, shaking her head. “You realize you’ve slain a giant, don’t you?”

“Darling, every girl must see the day when they realize their father is human too. It’s not like I told you he’s a murderer or drug dealer. I simply changed your fairytale.”

“I guess,” she responded quietly.

“I know what will cheer you up,” he said as he jumped up from the floor and headed toward the kitchen. “This will make you feel much better!” he called out. Walking back into the room, he held out a bottle of Spiced Rum and two shot glasses. He knew her well, despite their lack of pleasantries over the years. Setting the glasses on the coffee table, he poured them each a shot. “Let’s start out with a different game before getting to cards.”

“Which game would you like to play?” she asked hesitantly.

“Truth or Dare,” he stated. “You can even pick truth every single time if you want.”

“Okay, I’ll bite. Why do you want to play Truth or Dare? Isn’t it a bit childish?”

“Quite the contrary,” he replied. “Truth or Dare is a game that allows two people to learn about one another as well as gain trust. Though I have to admit, children generally use it to embarrass each other. In our version, if you don’t want to answer the question or do the dare, you drink. What do you say?”

“Okay,” she said, “let’s give it a try.”

Grabbing his shot glass, he raised it in the air and motioned her to do the same. “Do you promise to maintain safety and honesty throughout the game?”

“I do,” said Paris.

Clanking his glass to hers, he said, “Bottoms up.”

Paris downed the shot and immediately felt her stomach warm. “Maybe pour me one more before we get started?” she requested.

“Sure thing.” Vic poured them each another shot, and they both drank them down. “You can go first.”

Climbing up onto the couch, she made herself comfortable and watched as Vic took his place at the opposite end facing her. “Truth or Dare?” she asked.

Vic smiled at her and replied, “Truth.”

“Okay,” Paris thought for a moment. She wasn’t really sure where to start. Vic was staring at her in anticipation. Licking her lips, she asked, “Have you ever paid for sex?”

Vic’s eyes went wide in disbelief. “I’m not answering that question.”

“Really?” she asked. “The very first question and you won’t answer? Wasn’t this your idea?”

“Sure, but I didn’t think you were going to ask such a ridiculous question.”

“If it’s so ridiculous, why don’t you just answer?”

“Just pass me a shot, and we’ll move on,” he said.

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