“She’s about my height, blue eyes, pale blonde hair,” Janelle continued. “Her name is Ginger.”
Frowning, he slowly shook his head. “Doesn’t ring a bell, and I’d remember a woman named Ginger. But hardly anyone who works here goes by their real name, darlin’.”
“Oh.” Disappointment filled her. Why would she think she’d find her sister with the first person she questioned? Talk about hopeful. “Well, thank you anyway.”
“Hey.” His sharp bark halted her from turning completely away. He smiled, resting his hands on his hips. “Want to get together after the show? Have a drink? It’ll be on the house.”
“Oh, thank you, but I’m afraid I have to decline. I came with someone.”
“You can ditch him if you want. He’ll find someone else real quick, don’t you
worry.” He winked. “Not that you’re replaceable or anything...”
Just the idea of Nate’s hands full with the curves of another woman made her want to scream with jealousy. “I don’t think so, but thank you anyway.”
She left the bar, unease filling her. They weren’t going to find Ginger here, she could sense it. Something told her Ginger wasn’t here.
But she had to keep looking. Heading toward the opposite end of the club, she spotted a partially open door that lead backstage. If she could sneak back there, maybe she’d find out something.
She came to a stop, shaking her head. Damn it, how she wished she’d brought a photo of her sister. She didn’t even have a picture of Ginger on her phone. It would’ve make things a lot easier.
As she drew closer to the door, she could see a group of women in matching costumes running around frantically, as if positioning themselves in anticipation of the start of the show. Janelle peeked around the door, trying to catch a glimpse of their faces.
“Hey, get away from there. The show is about to start.” A sharp jab in the middle of her back made Janelle straighten with a yelp. She turned to find their hostess glaring up at her, her hands resting on slim hips.
“Oh, I’m sorry. I was curious to see what the dancers were wearing.” Janelle smiled, silently cursing her luck. Now she had to deal with little-miss-horny again.
“They’ll be out later. Then you can ogle their costumes all you want.” The hostess took Janelle’s hand and led her away from the door. “I think you’re lost little girl.”
Janelle restrained the urge to roll her eyes. Letting go of the hostess’ hand, she followed her. Damn it, she’d almost made it backstage.
“No one is allowed to wander around during the performance, and it starts in less than two minutes. We need to get you back to your table.” The hostess waved an impatient hand, scurrying along at a rapid pace, despite her five-inch heels
Janelle hurried after her, she could feel the front of her dress slipping with every step. Glancing down, she found her breasts were practically hanging out, especially since she wore no bra. She’d have to adjust her dress when she got back to the table.
In front of Nate. Would he be tempted? Didn’t all men enjoyed a flash of cleavage?
You don’t want to tempt him. You don’t want him, period.
Her mind screamed in protest, but her body was revved up and ready for action—specifically from Nate.
God, she was pitiful.
“Here you are.” The hostess stopped at their table, her voice a naughty little singsong as she smiled at Nate. “Don’t worry. I left her in one piece for you.”
Nate glared at Janelle as she sat down, his brows drawn together. She blatantly yanked on the straps of her dress, adjusting them and he watched her every move.
“Don’t tell me you fooled around with that waitress,” he growled.
Her mouth dropped open. “What? No! I was trying to get backstage when she caught me. The show’s about to start and she said no one’s allowed to wander around so she brought me back here.”
“Really?” A dark brow arched and Janelle had the sudden urge to screw with his head.
If he wanted naughty, wanted to believe she’d do something with the hostess, then so be it. She’d give him an earful.
“Why? You don’t believe me?” She lowered her voice to a sultry tone. “Does it excite you, the thought of me being with another woman while you watch? Are you into the kinky stuff, Detective Banks?”
Hell. The man provoked her and she couldn’t help herself. Thinking she’d fool around with some oversexed waitress, how dare he?