Chapter 3

CHAPTER THREE

Iris

I stare at myself in the mirror, trying to recognize the woman looking back at me.

But all I see are the shadows of my past etched into the lines of my face, the scars hidden beneath my tattoos.

The events of the past week swirl through my mind, a dizzying vortex pulling me under.

How did everything fall apart so quickly?

I thought I had finally found stability at Mysterious Ink, a place to belong.

But I should have known better than to get involved with Lyon.

I always pick the wrong men.

As if summoned by my thoughts, Viper's words echo in my head. "You're just a broken doll that keeps falling back into the same patterns, and no matter how hard you try, or how many times you break, you'll never escape it.”

I flinch at the memory, bile rising in my throat.

He cut right to the heart of it, saw through me like glass.

Because he's right. Lyon was just the latest in a long line of toxic relationships.

Men who started out charming and alluring, only to twist into something ugly and cruel.

There was Jake, my high school boyfriend, who isolated me from my friends and flew into jealous rages over the tiniest perceived slights.

Then Zak in college, a brooding artist who alternated between worshiping me and tearing me down, chipping away at my self-esteem.

And who could forget Rafe—he had the bad boy routine down pat, all leather and tattoos and danger.

I thought I could handle him, until the night he backhanded me across the face for talking to another man.

The pattern is painfully clear.

I'm drawn to broken men, attracted to their darkness like a moth to a flame.

Except I'm the one who always ends up burned.

You'd think I would have learned my lesson by now.

But here I am again, jobless and alone, doubting my own judgment.

I take a deep breath, forcing down the lump in my throat.

No, I refuse to be a victim anymore.

I survived all of them, and I'll survive this too.

I'm done waiting for a man to save me or complete me.

It's time I save myself.

With newfound determination, I smooth down my dress and grab my purse.

I have an interview at Satin Dreams tonight, and I'll be damned if I'm going to let Lyon or Viper or any of the other assholes hold me back.

This is my chance for a fresh start.

I may have a weakness for bad boys, but I'm no delicate flower.

There's steel beneath my skin, forged by the fires I've walked through.

I've picked myself up and started over more times than I can count.

This time will be no different.

I make a beeline for the stack of lingerie sets piled on the bed.

Rosa hooked me up with these for my interview at Satin Dreams tonight.

Rifling through the delicate lace and satin, I settle on a provocative black number.

The demi-cup bra barely contains my ample cleavage, and the Brazilian-cut panties leave little to the imagination.

Perfect.

I need to stand out if I'm going to land this gig.

I shimmy into the lingerie, the cool fabric skimming my curves.

Over it goes a skin-tight bandage dress in crimson, the hem flirting with the tops of my thighs.

With my rhinestone stilettos and some va-va-voom makeup, I'll be every inch the seductive temptress.

Exactly the vibe I'm going for.

In this world, sex appeal is a valuable commodity, and I intend to cash in.

I need this job badly.

The sooner I'm back on my feet financially, the sooner I can get the hell out of this house.

I can't spend one more minute here with Viper than I have to, not after the vicious way he flung my mistakes in my face.

So what if I have shitty taste in men?

I don't need it rubbed in my nose, especially not by someone with his track record.

Fifteen years in prison speaks for itself.

He may be Allegra's father, with the whole reformed bad boy thing going on, but I see right through the act.

Men like Viper, they never really change.

He'll always be the cocky, domineering asshole who takes what he wants and damns the consequences.

Just my type , a traitorous little voice in my head whispers.

I tell it firmly to shut up.

I'm done with men like Viper, like Lyon.

I won't be another notch on anyone's bedpost or punching bag ever again.

This is my time now.

I finish getting ready in record time, pausing to snap a quick selfie in the full-length mirror.

Damn, I look good.

Scooping up my clutch, I fire off a text to Rosa as I head out.

On my way to Satin Dreams. Wish me luck!

Her reply comes seconds later.

Knock 'em dead, baby girl! Dominic can't wait to meet you. You got this!

A smile tugs at my glossed lips. Rosa always has my back.

With her in my corner and my game face on, I feel invincible, untouchable.

Watch out, world.

Iris Marie Ashton is coming for everything she deserves, and heaven help anyone who stands in her way.

The Montana cold hits me like a wall the moment I step outside, but I don't let it faze me.

With a purposeful stride, I make my way down the busy sidewalk, the click of my stilettos against the pavement a staccato counterpoint to the pulse of the city.

Satin Dreams isn't far, just a few blocks from Allegra and Viper's place.

As I walk, I can't help but marvel at the sheer coziness of Tinsel Creek.

The log cabins and buildings would normally blend in together, but they don’t, each one having their own spin on craftsmanship.

Pine trees sway in the chill breeze, their needles rustling like whispered secrets.

The air is thick with the mingled scents of pine, peppermint, and hot chocolate.

Before long, I find myself standing before the imposing facade of Satin Dreams.

The exterior is all sleek lines and gleaming chrome, the name emblazoned in glowing neon script above the entrance.

I take a moment to adjust my dress, ensuring everything is in place, before squaring my shoulders and striding toward the door.

"You've got this, Iris," I murmur under my breath, a personal pep talk. "Time to show them what you're made of."

The interior of the club is just as luxurious as I'd imagined, all plush velvet and polished mahogany.

The lighting is low and intimate, with strategically placed spotlights illuminating the main stage.

A few dancers are already warming up, their lithe bodies undulating to the sensual beat of the music.

I approach the bar, where a well-dressed man is pouring drinks with practiced flair.

He looks up as I near, his gaze appraising.

"What can I get for you, sugar?" he drawls, his voice smooth as top-shelf whiskey.

I lean against the bar, flashing him my most dazzling smile. "Actually, I'm here to see Dominic. I have an interview scheduled with him."

The bartender's eyebrows lift, interest sparking in his eyes. "Is that so? Well, you just wait right here, darlin'. I'll let him know you've arrived."

As he disappears into the back, I take a deep breath, trying to quell the butterflies in my stomach.

Several other girls filter in as I wait, each one more stunning than the last.

They eye me curiously, no doubt sizing up their new competition.

I meet their gazes levelly, refusing to be cowed.

In this world, confidence is key.

After what feels like an eternity, the man returns. “All right, ladies, follow me. The boss is ready for you.”

We trail after him like a line of well-dressed ducklings, our heels clicking on the polished floor.

He leads us down a dimly lit hallway, stopping before a heavy wooden door.

With a perfunctory knock, he pushes it open.

“The interviewees, sir,” he announces, stepping aside to usher us in.

The office is spacious and richly appointed, all dark leather and gleaming chrome.

But it's the man sitting behind the expansive desk that immediately captures my attention.

He's devastatingly handsome, with dark hair, piercing eyes, and a jawline that could cut glass.

His suit is impeccably tailored, hugging his muscular frame like a second skin.

But it's the aura of power that radiates from him that truly sets him apart.

This must be Dominic.

He regards us coolly as we file in, his gaze lingering on each girl in turn.

When his eyes meet mine, I feel a jolt of electricity down my spine.

I tilt my chin up, meeting his stare boldly.

The corner of his mouth ticks up in a smirk. "Well, well, well. What do we have here?" He leans back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "A fresh batch of beauties, eager to dance in my club."

"More than just dance," I say, stepping forward.

The other girls shoot me startled looks, but I ignore them. "We're here to make you money. To bring in the high rollers and keep them coming back for more."

Dominic's eyebrows lift, a spark of interest igniting in his dark eyes. "Is that so? And how exactly do you plan on doing that, Miss...?"

"Ashton," I supply, holding his gaze. "And by being the best damn thing they've ever seen."

He chuckles, the sound rich and throaty. "Confidence. I like that in my girls."

His gaze rakes over me, lingering on my curves. "All right then, Miss. Ashton. Let's see what you've got."

He snaps his fingers, and music fills the room, a throbbing, sensual beat. "Dance for me. All of you. Show me why I should pick you to grace my stage."

The other girls leap into action, twirling and gyrating. But I take my time, letting the music flow through me.

I sway my hips, running my hands along my sides, up into my hair.

I lock eyes with Dominic as I dance, pouring every ounce of sensuality I possess into my movements.

"Not bad, ladies," Dominic says when the music fades. "But I'm looking for more than just a pretty face and some sexy moves. I need girls with drive. With hustle. Girls who will do whatever it takes to make my club the hottest spot in Tinsel Creek, if not Montana."

He leans forward, his gaze intense. "So here's your next test. I want you to take off your clothes. Right here, right now. Show me how badly you want this job."

The other girls gasp and titter, clutching at their dresses.

But I don't hesitate. I reach behind me, slowly pulling down the zipper of my bodycon dress.

I shimmy it down over my hips, letting it pool at my feet.

I stand there in my black lace lingerie, head high, my gaze never leaving Dominic's.

His eyes darken as he drinks me in, his lips quirking into an appreciative smile.

The other girls remain frozen in place, their eyes wide with shock and indecision.

But I refuse to let this chance slip away.

I stride forward, hips swaying, until I'm standing right in front of Dominic.

"Sugar, forget about them," I purr, trailing a perfectly manicured nail down his jawline. "They clearly don't have what it takes. But me?" I lean in close, my lips brushing his ear. "I'll do whatever it takes to make your club sizzle. VIP rooms, private dances, the works. I'll have men begging for more."

Dominic's breath quickens, his hands clenching the armrests of his chair.

I can practically feel the heat emanating off his body.

He wants me, I can tell.

And not just as an employee… but I don’t want him.

The man I want is the one who makes me want to throat punch him—Viper.

I straighten up, flashing him a sultry smile as I saunter back to retrieve my dress.

The other girls are gaping at me, a mix of envy and awe in their eyes.

They know I've won.

"Ladies, thank you for your time," Dominic says brusquely, not even sparing them a glance. "But I think I've found my girl. Congratulations. The job is yours."

Triumph surges through me as I slip my dress back on.

I did it.

I nailed this interview and secured my spot at Satin Dreams.

For the first time in days, I feel a flicker of hope.

As the other girls file out, Dominic rises from his chair and comes around the desk.

He looks me up and down, a wolfish grin spreading across his face. "I have a feeling you're going to be my new star attraction, Iris," he says, his voice low and intimate. "Stick with me, baby, and I'll make you a very rich woman."

I meet his heated gaze with a bold one of my own. "Oh, I plan to," I tell him, my voice dripping with promise. "Satin Dreams won't know what hit it."

Inside, my mind is racing.

I got the job, but now the real work begins.

I'll need to hustle harder than ever, pour all my energy into this.

It's the only way I'll save up enough to finally get my own place, far away from Viper and his maddening pull on my heart.

But I can't think about him now.

I have to focus on me, on securing my future.

One seductive dance at a time.

"I'll expect to see you here tomorrow night at nine p.m. sharp," Dominic instructs. "Wear something...unforgettable."

"Don't worry, sugar," I wink as I sashay toward the door. "Unforgettable is my specialty."

As I exit the office, my hips swinging, I feel Dominic's hungry gaze on me the whole way out.

I got this job on my own terms, using my body, my sensuality as power.

Lyon tried to take that power from me, but I'll show him.

I'll show everyone.

Iris Marie Ashton is no man's door mat.

I'm a force of nature.

A goddess in lace and stilettos.

And Tinsel Creek won't know what hit it.