“All right. Thanks, Carlos.”
Carlos waved me off and walked away. Leon placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. “You okay, baby?”
“Yeah, I’m fine.”
His deep brown eyes found mine. “You’re not gonna be here forever. This is just a way station for you. I know that shit hurts, but I’m glad you’re not used to it. Never get used to it.”
I squeezed his wrist. “Believe me, I’m nowhere near used to it. But here I am, shaking it off, ’cause I have a job to do and drinks to serve to some fancy schmancy VIPs.”
He gave me a broad, toothy smile. “You’re damn right, baby. Go light up the section you belong in.”
With another deep breath, I steadied myself and let Leon’s words coat the nasty ones from PFB. Fortified with positivity, I straightened my spine, stood tall in my ridiculous heels, and shook it all off.
I found Melody by the VIP bar, filling her tray with shots. “Hey, girl. I’m here to help.”
She exhaled a heavy breath of relief. “Oh, thank god. It was busy already, then this band and their entourage showed up. I’m going out of my mind trying to serve everyone. Would you mind taking these shots to them?”
“Sure. I got you, girl.”
Tonight had only gotten started, and I was already weary. Still, I pulled deep from my well of southern charm, put on my most dazzling smile, and carried my tray like a damn boss.