Chapter Eight

Kyle

Outside the theatre bar, I stand with Kate and Lindy flanking me on either side. If they hadn't practically dragged me here, I probably would've spent the night in my cabin, reading the second book in the fantasy series. I'm exhausted from the day's shore tour in Noumea, but it's not my tiredness that has me on edge. It's the loud music and the crowd streaming into the venue that makes me feel like a fish out of water.

Kate, with her newly rainbow-streaked hair, nudges me gently. "Come on, Kyle. Live a little!"

Lindy, more reserved but equally persuasive, loops her arm through mine. "You'll love it, I promise."

I hesitate, scanning the entrance. A towering drag queen in a sequined gown and feathered headdress sashays past, leaving a trail of glitter in her wake. I'm sure my face must betray how I feel, mouth open as I gape but she's spectacular. My heart races, and I can feel the blood rushing to my cheeks. I'm not used to this kind of environment; it's so far removed from my small country town pub.

Kate and Lindy don't give me a chance to back out. They each take an elbow and guide me across the room towards a table in a corner. As we weave through the throng of people, I'm awestruck by the kaleidoscope of colours and outfits. Not muchleft to the imagination! Damn!

We reach our table, and they push me onto a plush velvet chair and Kate orders a round of drinks.

As we wait for our cocktails, I continue to marvel at the people around us. The room pulses with upbeat music and flashing neon lights. Sequined gowns sparkle under the spotlights, glitter-streaked faces beam with happiness. There's acres of skin on show, much of it adorned with tattoos, and piercings glint in the light. Rainbow boas drape around bare shoulders, leather harnesses grace bare chests. The atmosphere crackles with electric energy and uninhibited joy.

Kate leans over the table. "So, Kyle, what do you think so far? Fabulous, right?"

"Isn't this amazing?" Lindy says, eyes sparkling with excitement. "I love a good drag show. You're in for a treat, Kyle. Just wait till the show starts."

The server arrives with cosmopolitans in martini glasses garnished with citrus twists. I take a tentative sip, pleasantly surprised by the tart cranberry and lime mingling with vodka. The drink warms me from inside.

Lindy raises her glass. "To trying new things and embracing fabulousness!"

We clink our glasses together.

As I take another sip, I realise I'm grinning ear to ear. The infectious spirit of this place has washed away my initial hesitation, and I'm now eagerly anticipating the show.

My thoughts are interrupted as the lights dim, and a hush falls over the room. A spotlight illuminates the stage creating a puddle of golden light. Suddenly, the air is filled with the pulsating beat of a dance track, and I find myself tapping my foot in time to the music.

Crystal Starlight makes her grand entrance to a raucous welcome from the crowd who holler and cheer. The music swells, pulsating through the air and sending a shiver down my spine. Crystal Starlight's costume is a riot of pink, a dazzling array of sequins and feathers that sparkle and shimmer with every movement. The song starts and another cheer goes up—it's obviously a crowd favourite. Crystal Starlight's lips move in perfect sync with "Dancing Queen" as her costume flows around her. She twirls and spins, hands in the air, rings catching the light and flashing. She has the longest fingernails I've ever seen.

I can't help smiling as I move to the beat without leaving my chair. My Cosmo splashes on my hand, so I put down the glass, hardly taking my gaze from the performance. The energy in the room is amazing, as everyone moves in times to the music. I look around, taking in the smiles and laughter of the people surrounding me—people just like me, enjoying the show and having a great time. The feeling of belonging is almost overwhelming.

Lindy leans in and raises her voice to be heard. "Isn't Crystal amazing? They're one of my favourite performers."

I nod, unable to find the words to express my admiration. Kate grins, giving my arm a reassuring squeeze. "You're really enjoying this, aren't you?"

I smile, warmth spreading through my chest. "Yeah, I am. More than I ever thought I would."

As Crystal Starlight finishes her performance, the room erupts into applause. I join in, clapping until my hands sting as she takes a well-deserved bow. As the applause dies down, I know this is a moment I'll cherish forever, a reminder that stepping out of my comfort zone can lead to incredible experiences.

As the next act takes the stage, I lean forward in my chair, watching the performers on stage and getting lost in the music and the dance. The drag show is a world unlike any I've ever experienced. I'm in awe at the skill and confidence of the performers. Their costumes, wigs, and makeup are exceptional and totally over the top, and they move with such grace and poise.

As the show wraps up, I feel a twinge of sadness. I don't want this night to end. This magical experience that has opened my eyes to a whole new world. I turn to Kate and Lindy. "Thanks so much for bringing me here. I had an amazing time."

"Anytime."

I look around for a server but don't see anyone nearby, so push from my chair. "I'm going to get us a round of drinks. I'll be back soon."

I shoulder my way through groups of people who are now chatting and dancing to the music being piped into the room. The lights are low, with pulses of colour in time to the beat, and I've got a grin on my face when I arrive at the bar.

As I'm waiting, there's a tap on my shoulder. I turn to see a guy standing there, a net top stretched across his chest, leaving little to the imagination. His nipple piercings glint under the bar's neon lights, and he gives me a confident smile. I'm a taken aback by his edgy appearance, and try not to stare, raising my eyes from his chest to his face. It's then I realise why he's so familiar.

"Derek, remember?"

The memories aren't good but I decide to give him the benefit of the doubt. We only crossed paths for a short time when we met earlier.

"I'm Kyle."

He gives me the once-over. As his eyes rake my body, I wonder what he thinks of my outfit of dark jeans, a button-up shirt, and my trusty RM Williams boots. He must like what he sees because he winks. I blush at the scrutiny, and I'm glad when the bar tender interrupts to take my drink order.

Once the order is placed, I try to make polite conversation asking Derek what he thought of the show. As he speaks, his words slightly slurry, he leans in closer, and I feel uneasy. His breath smells of alcohol, and his hand rests on the bar, close enough to touch mine. I pull my hand away. He's invading my personal space and it feels creepy.

When I politely decline his offer to pay for my drink, he doesn't take the hint. He leans in closer, his hand now resting on my arm. "Come on, let's get out of here," he says, his voice low and breathy.

My stomach plummets, my earlier happiness fading away. It's not as if I'm against a hook-up, it's just I have no interest in him. His advances become more aggressive and I try to extricate myself from his grip, but he doesn't take no for an answer.

He leans in closer, his breath hot on my ear. "Don't be like that," he says, his voice laced with innuendo. "I promise I'll make it worth your while."

"I'm sorry, but I'm not interested," I say firmly.

But Derek doesn't back down. He leans in even closer, pressed against me. "Come on, don't be a tease," he says, his voice now a low hiss.

Panic rises in my chest despite being in a crowded public place. I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself. My heart races and palms start to sweat. I don't know what to do. I look around for help, but the bar is crowded, and no one seems to notice.

I take a step back, putting some distance between us.