Page 15 of Find Me
“Julia is just over here,” Rhys said, leading her toward a secluded corner where Julia sat alone, drinking a glass of wine.
“Julia, may I introduce Penny?” Rhys asked as they reached the table. “She’s new to Phoenix and could use some guidance to feel comfortable.”
Julia’s eyes flicked toward Penny, a hint of curiosity and guardedness in her gaze. “Of course, Rhys,” she replied, her voice soft and inviting. “I’d be happy to help.”
“Fantastic.” Rhys flashed a smile before stepping back, leaving the two women alone.
As Penny took a seat beside Julia, she couldn’t help but marvel at how effortlessly beautiful Julia was. The woman had an air of vulnerability about her that tugged at Penny’s heartstrings, urging her to protect her even as she sought to use her for information. Deep down, Penny knew that beneath the facade of pleasure and decadence, there were secrets hidden within these walls—secrets that could potentially shatter lives and bring down the club. But first, she needed to break through Julia’s defenses and gain her trust.
“Thank you for agreeing to help me,” Penny began, offering a warm, genuine smile. “I won’t lie. I’m a bit nervous, but I need the money from the show.”
“No need to thank me,” Julia replied, her eyes searching Penny’s face for something—perhaps reassurance, or maybe a hint of her true intentions. “I once needed the money too.” But she didn’t now. Penny made a mental note of that, as Julia continued, “Let’s just take it slow, and remember: Phoenix is a place for healing and discovery. Embrace it, and you might just find what you’re looking for.”
The sultry scent of jasmine wafted in the air, mingling with the low hum of whispered conversations among Phoenix’s employees. Penny glanced around the dimly lit room, noting the flickering candles casting shadows on the sconces that adorned the walls. She felt the softness of the plush seating beneath her, and it was clear that every detail had been carefully curated to create an atmosphere of seduction and mystery.
“I hope you don’t mind me asking,” Penny began, leaning closer, “but how did you first get involved with Phoenix? I got in here all by luck. Knew the right people, that kind of thing.”
Julia hesitated for a moment, her fingers absently tracing the rim of the crystal glass cradled in her hands. “I suppose you could say I stumbled upon it by chance,” she admitted. “At the time, my life felt stagnant, and I yearned for something more—a world where I could break free from my inhibitions and explore my desires.” She paused, her eyes meeting Penny’s once more. “And I found that here.”
Penny nodded thoughtfully, considering Julia’s words. “It sounds like Phoenix changed your life. I’m hoping for that too,” she said, before adding with a playful smile, “and maybe even find some excitement along the way.”
“Excitement is certainly never in short supply here,” Julia agreed with a soft laugh. Her expression grew more serious as she studied Penny for a moment. “But remember, it’s not just about seeking pleasure; it’s also about forming connections with others who share your desires.”
“Speaking of connections,” Penny ventured, her heart racing as she broached the topic. “Do you have a boyfriend or anyone special in your life right now? I guess I’m wondering how they feel about you being a participant here. I just… I guess I’m looking at this long-term and wondering if it’ll affect me down the road.”
A shadow seemed to pass over Julia’s warm brown eyes, and she hesitated before responding. “Nothing serious at the moment,” she said quietly, her gaze fixated on the swirling crimson liquid in her glass. “I’ve had my share of relationships, but none have lasted. It’s difficult to find someone who truly understands me and accepts the complexities of my needs.”
Penny reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Julia’s arm. “I understand how you feel,” she said. “It’s hard to let people in when you’re afraid they might judge you or try to change you.”
“Exactly,” Julia agreed, her gaze meeting Penny’s once more. “But I hold on to the hope that one day, I’ll find someone who sees me for who I am—and loves me because of it, not in spite of it.”
“Isn’t that the dream?” Penny agreed, lying breezily. She swirled the wine in her glass as she considered where to take this conversation next. “You know, I’ve always been drawn to bad boys, the ones who look like trouble waiting to happen.”
“Really?” Julia’s eyes danced with curiosity, and she leaned in closer, eager for more.
“Absolutely,” Penny replied, keeping her voice light. “There’s something so alluring about the danger they carry with them, don’t you think? It’s like dancing on the edge of a cliff—thrilling and terrifying all at once.”
Julia laughed, the sound warm and genuine. “I can see the appeal, but it doesn’t always end well, does it?”
Penny shook her head. “No, it doesn’t. But that’s part of the risk, isn’t it? I’m single right now but I keep finding myself attracted to the same type of man, hoping that this time will be different.”
“Maybe you just haven’t met the right one yet,” Julia suggested.
Penny grinned. “Know of anyone that would fit the bill?”
“Yeah, I might.” Julia laughed. “Let me think on it.”
“Thanks,” Penny said.
A soft bell chimed in the room. Julia drained her drink and then gave a sultry smile. “That’s my call. Hope you enjoy the show.”
“I’m sure I will,” Penny replied, as she watched Julia leave the room.
The bell chimed again, and Hawke approached.
“Ready for this?” he asked, his smooth voice brushing over her.
Not even sure what to think in this moment, she nodded.
