Page 17 of Mr. Wilde

Fern’s face falls.

“So keep that in mind. If you’re going to go all in for the chance to date a member, make your decision carefully.” Lala stands to her full height, placing her tablet on the table. With her hands on her hips, she resembles a private school headmistress. “These men are successful, attractive, and have more money than they know what to do with. They could have any woman on the planet. Sure, I believe in fairy tales every bit as much as the next girl.” She gives Fern a lopsided frown. “But to think you’re going to land a rich husband here is delusional. From past experience, it’s more likely you’ll secure a pink slip and a baby daddy, who has enough money to ensure your life going forward is miserable.”

Suddenly, you can hear a pin drop as the reality of the situation hits home. Not that any of this impacts me. Dating anyone is out of the question.

A man here, even less so.

“Okay, that’s enough of a lecture for one day. Try to enjoy the rest of your afternoon before your shifts start. And don’t forget we have the Spring Fling coming soon. I’ll make sure you have the itinerary sent to your emails.”

Brier examines those shiny red nails a little closer. “There’s no chance of interviewing to be in the Angels Among Sinners program?”

All heads turn toward Lala, who lets out a dramatic sigh. She carefully lowers herself into a plush black velvet chair. “As you are all aware… well, everyone but Cassidy perhaps, Gianni holds an over-the-top party whenever he introduces new women to the members of The Devil’s Playground. Usually in the spring and winter months, he’ll recruit new girls interested in entertaining the members. Occasionally, young women are promoted from within. Ones who began within the organization as cocktail servers or personal assistants who have shown promise.”

Brier adjusts herself in her chair, uncrossing her legs. “How exactly does one show promise? Is Gianni responsible for identifying these contenders?” Silence envelops the room until she says, “Or are you?”

A noticeable gasp escapes Candice’s lips at this realization.

Lala looks down toward the floor as if exasperated. “I work for Gianni. The only input I have is arranging her interview once Gianni expresses interest in them.”

Brier’s mouth opens in an effort to press for additional information, but her attempt is quickly thwarted as Lala holds her hands up to halt any further conversation. “And please do not ask what he’s looking for. I have absolutely no idea.” A slight appearance of dejection clouds Lala’s features. It’s subtle, but it’s there. I probably only pick up on this due to my career training. Does Lala want to advance her career here? Or is her hurt related to something else?

From what I recall of my orientation, attractive ladies from all over the world apply to join Gianni’s Angels Among Sinners program. Those chosen are instructed on everything necessary to provide a great experience for the members of DPG as well as how to politely decline anything they feel uneasy about. This training, along with top-notch security, a salary most college graduates would beg for, and a mouth-dropping benefits package, makes the selection fiercely competitive.

Many girls come and go. Some are only here to fund their education or jumpstart a career. Others simply decide they’d prefer a different lifestyle. There’s no judgment when that day comes. Instead, Gianni decides to make a grand statement when new women enter the fold. Not only does it keep the club exciting, but it entices new members. And as he puts it, there’s always room for more.

Lala’s voice softens a bit. “The best way to stand out is to do your job well, and don’t attract any negative attention to yourself. Or DPG.”

After the meeting breaks, Lala catches up to me near the lockers.

“Was I too harsh?” She grimaces.

“No, no. You were professional.”

“Whew. I hate having to be such a Debbie Downer. But I don’t want to see these girls get hurt. Hey, you want to grab a coffee? There’s a place down the block.”

My stomach tightens instantly. “Oh—I can’t,” I blurt a little too quickly. “Coursework. I’m behind in… two classes.” It’s a lie. But it feels safer than explaining that I don’t know how to be normal yet. When I do venture out, I need to do it on my own or with Holt. Because there will be no hiding the anxiety.

Lala studies me, then nods. “Okay. Maybe another time?”

“Yeah. Definitely.”

Later that night, when we step onto the floor, the VIP section is already occupied. Brier is serving the Billionaire Boys Club, smiling as if she’s posing for a magazine spread. It’s as if Lala’s words have turned up the dial on her efforts to impress both the members and the owner.

Lala mutters, “She acts like she’s above all of this, but clearly she’s got an agenda.”

I glance over.

And then I see him.

Lean, dark hair, a firm jaw covered in the perfect amount of stubble, and dark horn-rimmed glasses that somehow make him more attractive. God, why does he have to be so damn hot? How’s a girl supposed to work with all of that testosterone pulling at her?

He’s leaning back in his chair, legs spread in effortless confidence like he doesn’t need to impress a soul. And there’s Brier, bent forward with her ass practically in his face.

Yet he seems completely relaxed. Observant but not ogling. Totally unaffected by Brier’s presence. Hers or anyone’s at the club, for that matter. I’ve never caught him scanning the room like he’s shopping. His attention is only on his friends.

Well, except for that time I caught him staring at me.

I tried to stay occupied with my job and not let my gaze wander back over to him. Ha. Impossible. The way his eyes remained fixed on mine as he took a drink, never breaking away once he knew I’d seen him. His casual confidence was such an incredible turn on. I’m sure he was trying to figure me out. This colorful new girl in a sea of sleek, sophisticated women.