#✦ champagne nights & faded dreams ˏˋ°•⁀➷ billie on spotlight ✦"

[billiethrills]

she watched him, the smirk on her lips steady, but there was a sharpness to it now, a glint in her eye that hadn’t been there before. she tilted her head, exhaling a quiet laugh as she glanced at the screen, at the little notification that proved just how deep camilo played the game. "you really are shameless, huh?" her voice was silk and smoke, smooth and slow as she reached out, fingers grazing the edge of his burner phone before she plucked it from his grasp. she turned it over in her palm, nails tapping lightly against the plastic, her grin curling like a cat who had just caught something far more interesting than she expected. "hustling a man over his dead abuelita? that’s low, even for you." she took a step back, not enough to retreat, but just enough to let the weight of her words settle. her free hand smoothed over her hip, brushing against the thick wad of bills still tucked into the strap of her barely-there outfit. she had played the long game tonight, kept them wanting, kept them spending — made them believe she was giving them something real. but camilo? camilo had made them believe he was their savior. and that was the part that really fucking pissed her off. "guess i gotta give you credit," she mused, lifting the phone, pretending to inspect it like she was weighing it against the money she had pulled in. "you didn’t just win. you made sure i couldn’t argue it." her gaze flicked back to him, locking onto his, and for a moment, just a brief one, her smirk softened — just a touch, just enough to show that, yeah, she could appreciate the play. but then, just as quickly, it was gone. she tossed the phone back to him, the movement effortless, like it had never really mattered in the first place. "fine. you win tonight," she conceded, stepping forward again, close enough that he could smell the faint trace of vanilla and whiskey clinging to her skin. "but next time? don’t think for a second i’m gonna let you pull that shit again." she reached up, tapped two fingers against his jaw, the touch light, teasing, before she leaned in just enough for her breath to ghost against his ear. "enjoy the victory, baby. it’s the last one you’re getting."

She walked in an the air in the room changed into a completely different atmosphere, and it wasn't just Camilo he had that effect on apparently. There was a hint of envy in his gaze as he watched her walk to her locker, for he strived for such influence on others one day, even if it was only for a temporary role he played. Such confidence was inherent, not easy to be learned. Nevertheless, he would try. It wasn't desire that had him practically stare her down as she undressed. No, he was examining her body language, every move she made, each twitch of muscle in her expression, analyzing her for the future. Curiosity and ambition overcame him for a moment, though anticipation for the results of their game caught up to them soon enough, winning the race in the end, even with a late start.

He turned to her once she spoke, as if he was being drawn in by her voice, and it was because, well... he was. "I know baby, I make it seem so easy." It took guts to do what he did. Exactly like what she did. He held her gaze as she approached, head tilting back from his seat to do so. He enjoyed being in that position perhaps a little too much, but eventually he got up to eye level with her. "Oh yeah?" He reached into his pocket as he spoke. "Guess I'm just shy a couple hundred in cash, huh? Oh, well... your clients are very loyal. Y'know Pete, the bald guy with the glasses? Horrible, what happened to his abuelita. Good thing I knew Harry, he could totally help him out. And guess what?" He pulled a burner phone out, unlocking it before he turned it around with a little notification on the screen about Pete, of all people, sending him double his rent money. "All out of the good of his heart!"

[billiethrills]

location: seduction strip club open starter (@sinnerssquarestart)

billie priestley stepped backstage, the neon lights of seduction casting a vibrant, almost surreal glow over her as she untied her heels and slid into something a bit more comfortable. the air was thick with the scent of perfume, sweat, and the hum of a constant, low bassline that vibrated through the walls, spilling out into the main room. billie had worked the late shift more times than she could count, but tonight felt different. there was an energy in the room, something she couldn't quite place — a magnetism, maybe. her makeup was flawless, her eyes dark and smoldering beneath the thick lashes, a perfected mask of confidence that no one would ever guess she kept up for show. a quick glance at the mirror as she adjusted her outfit revealed the same thing it always did: a woman who had nothing to prove, but loved making everyone else think she did. she wasn’t just here for the tips, no — there was power in the way the room fell silent when she took the stage, the way she commanded the attention of everyone with the flick of a wrist, the shift of a hip. it was intoxicating, really. billie grabbed her drink, a glass of something smooth, something she could sip on while she waited for her cue to perform. tonight, she wasn't sure what she'd find — maybe a familiar face, maybe a fresh one, maybe something else entirely. after all, she thought, you never know what might happen when you're the center of attention. she took a long sip and stepped into the spotlight, ready to see who was daring enough to approach her tonight.

[billiethrills]

her smirk deepened, a glint of amusement sparking in her dark eyes as she twirled the remaining liquor in her glass before downing the rest in one smooth motion. the burn was familiar, welcome — nothing she couldn’t handle. she placed the empty glass on the bar with an easy flick of her wrist, tilting her head slightly as she watched wolfie shift his weight with that signature flair of his. “oh, don’t worry, sweetheart,” she mused, “you could outshine every bottle girl in this place without even trying.” her gaze swept over the room, the neon lights casting a sultry glow over the sea of overdressed patrons, all too eager to throw their money around for the sake of an image. pandemonium was all smoke and mirrors — glitz on the surface, but the real action was always happening in the shadows. billie knew that better than most. “so, a break, huh?” she tapped a manicured nail against the bar, considering him with a slow grin. “sounds like a damn good idea. but if we’re drinking, we’re drinking.” she turned, catching the bartender’s attention with a look, ordering something stronger, something that would make the night a little more interesting. “besides, what’s the point of surviving this madhouse if we’re not gonna have a little fun while we’re at it?” she leaned in just slightly, lowering her voice just enough to be heard over the bass-heavy music. “tell me — are you just looking for a drink, or are you up for something a little more... entertaining?” her smirk was all challenge, her gaze daring, as she traced the rim of her fresh glass before raising it to her lips. “because i have a feeling you and i could make this place a hell of a lot more fun.”

❝𝐍𝐎𝐖, 𝐈 𝐃𝐎 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐁𝐄𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐈 𝐄𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐘 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐌 𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐎𝐎.❞ He admits playfully with a hum, but definitely not by the clientele... Or at least most of them, anyway. If they were cute, then fine, it was worth it, to an extent. But unfortunately it did come with most jobs regardless of occupation. ❝I mostly did it for a generous tip.❞ He admits. Though, in a place as flashy as Pandemonium, the tips were already included, it all just depended how much higher some of the clients were willing to go; most were usually always flashing their wealth or too drunk to think it through. Shifting his weight to one foot and jutting a hip outward at the compliment, Wolfie jokes, ❝Thanks, couldn't let the bottle girls get all the attention.❞ Finishing inputting the last of the bottles he had helped deliver prior to helping the influencers, Wolfgang turns his attention to Billie with a smirk, ❝Y'know, I was just thinking about how I should be goin' on break soon.❞ Green eyes flicker down to the glass in her hand, ❝Looks like it's time for another.❞

[billiethrills]

billie let out a soft hum, tilting her head as she let victoria’s words settle between them, like a challenge wrapped in silk. her fingers skimmed the edges of the books beside her, gaze flicking over the titles with the ease of someone who knew exactly what they were looking for. “dangerous, but not too twisted?” she mused, a smirk ghosting over her lips. “that’s a fine line, sweetheart. you might have just made this interesting.” with a practiced, deliberate slowness, she plucked a book from the shelf, her touch lingering on the worn spine before she turned it over in her hands. she considered it for a moment before holding it out, her eyes never leaving victoria’s. “this one. sharp turns, unreliable narrators, just enough menace to keep you questioning every page.” her smirk deepened. “think of it as a little test of nerve.” she let victoria take the book, her fingers brushing lightly over hers in the exchange, a fleeting touch, calculated but effortless. “as for your highlander,” billie continued, tapping her own book against her palm, “i’ll bite. but don’t be surprised if i end up rooting for the villain instead.”

Victoria let out a soft, knowing laugh, shifting her weight as she let her gaze sweep over the other woman, amusement flickering in her dark eyes. “Oh, sweetheart, you do know how to make an offer sound tempting.” She tapped a finger against the spine of her book, considering. “A little darkness to balance out my kilts and castles? Sounds fair—though I should warn you, I like my mysteries like I like my men.” She leaned in just slightly, voice dropping into something velvet-smooth. “Dangerous enough to keep me on my toes, but not so twisted I can’t find my way out.”

She let the moment linger, then smirked. “Go on then, pick my poison. But don’t be surprised if I make you fall for a brooding Highlander in return.”

[billiethrills]

billie grinned, shaking her head as she lifted her glass slightly in a mock toast. “see, this is why you’re my favorite drinking partner,” she mused, her voice laced with amusement. “always got the right angle. we’re not just here for the spectacle — we’re here for the service.” she leaned back in her seat, letting her gaze drift back to the couple, watching as the guy floundered through another excuse that only seemed to dig him in deeper. billie let out a slow exhale, like she was watching an inevitable car crash. “yeah, send it over. preemptive strike. a little cheers to knowing your worth moment.” she smirked, turning toward abby. “if he gets embarrassed enough to leave? even better. gives her space to really enjoy the celebration.” setting her glass down with a decisive clink, billie gestured toward the bartender. “two shots, send ‘em her way,” she ordered smoothly, before glancing back at abby with a glint of mischief in her eyes. “and if she comes over, we’re making it a girls’ night. no dead weight allowed.”

drama happened to be entertaining to her when it didn't pertain to her life. she was glad to be an outsider, just someone observing what was taking place while living comfortably drama free. at least, she was free of it for the time being. she couldn't say that would remain true but she could celebrate it for the time being. drama tended to love following her around, so it wasn't exactly anything she wasn't familiar with. "well, if we're not gonna do it, we can't guarantee that someone else out there will. better to be a friend than bystander," she said before shrugging. she didn't know the girl's life, after all. "that's his own doing. maybe he'll grow up one day. who knows? sometimes, it took a harsh reality check for someone to come to their senses. "i say we send one over now. maybe he'll be so embarrassed he's the one who ends up leaving instead. i think that'd be pretty funny."

[billiethrills]

billie had been watching, casually nursing her own drink as the bartender delivered the mystery offering. she caught the exact moment elena turned, her expression caught between suspicion and mild irritation, and it only made billie’s lips curl into something amused. “relax, sweetheart,” billie called over, tipping her glass in elena’s direction. “wasn’t some creep trying to get lucky — just me, being friendly.” she shifted, elbow resting against the bar as she turned to fully face elena, dark eyes glinting with something unreadable. “but if you’re feeling paranoid, by all means, pass it off. i’m sure some poor bastard in here will appreciate the generosity.” her smirk deepened as she took a slow sip from her own glass, letting the moment stretch. “though, i gotta say, i’m a little offended.” her voice dipped, laced with amusement. “you took one look at that drink and assumed bad intentions? brutal.” she dragged her thumb along the rim of her glass, feigning hurt before flashing a knowing grin. “or maybe you’re just not used to people buying you shit without expecting something in return.” she let that settle for a beat before tilting her head, watching elena with a lazy kind of curiosity. “so, what’s it gonna be? you taking the gamble, or am i gonna have to drink it myself?”

location: a bar somewhere tag: open! (0/3) @sinnerssquarestart

Elena looked up at the bartender with confusion as a new drink entered her line of sight, which had been hazily focused on a pattern in the wood grain as she pulled on a thread of a thought. The bar itself was crowded and a little on the loud side, just noisy enough to grate on her nerves but not quite at the pitch that made her want to crawl out of her skin.

"I didn't order another," she said, eyebrow arching. The bartender shrugged and turned, motioning with a jerk of his thumb somewhere down the bar. "That one over there sent it," he replied, and El gave him a flat look and turned the tumbler with her fingers. "I don't w--" Before she finished the sentence, the man behind the bar had already moved on, well out of earshot given the thump of music and the roar of the crowd. "Well fuck me, I guess," she murmured as she fished the lime out of her current drink, twisting slightly in her seat to see if she could figure out either who gave her the drink or if there was someone she could pawn it off on.

[billiethrills]

billie slipped onto the stool beside him, her arrival as seamless as the soft scrape of her leather jacket against the bar, catching just enough of kerem’s last request to piece together what he was up to. she didn’t need to say much at first; the slight arch of her brow as she glanced between kerem and the mystery drink was more than enough. "lightly poisoned, huh?" she drawled, a smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth as she reached for the glass. "guess i should feel flattered you went through the effort. though, judging by the taste of whatever swill this place calls tequila, you might’ve saved me the trouble." her dark eyes flicked toward the man at the end of the bar, then to the supposed girl three seats down. she wasn’t one to pry — well, not openly, anyway — but her curiosity sparked, and it showed in the way she leaned back slightly, the faintest tilt of her head betraying her interest. "playing cupid tonight? or just making someone’s night interesting?" she lifted the glass in mock salute before taking a small sip, her expression shifting to one of mild disgust. "jesus. you weren’t kidding. this is offensive." setting the glass down, she gave kerem a sidelong glance, her smirk sharpening. "so, what’s the plan here? or do you just thrive on chaos and poorly made drinks?"

Location: The Alibi Central

Open to: anyone!

One sip of this piss poor excuse for tequila nearly saw him spit the remainder onto the already questionable floor. Either a sorority girl was watering things down back there or a misguided manager believed shampoo bottles and Cuervo could both have their lives extended. Note that he didn't give it back though. "This is foul. Give me two more." Dark eyes swept the length of the bar before he continued. "Send one to the man on the end, tell him it's from the girl three seats down to my left." The bartender shot Kerem an expression that went plainly ignored as another body joined him on the adjacent stool. "Oh good, you're here." Spoken whether he knew the face or not, because he still hadn't looked up from peeling bills out of his wallet. His chin nodded faintly towards the remaining glass left unclaimed until now. "That one's for you and I only lightly poisoned it."

[billiethrills]

billie had been leaning against the brick wall, one heel pressed to it, watching the night unfold outside seduction like it was her own personal stage. the club’s neon glow cast streaks of red and purple across the pavement, cigarette smoke curling lazily in the air around her. she was mid-inhale when she heard the voice, her gaze flicking toward the source — some guy, looking like he’d rather be anywhere else but here. she exhaled slow, tilting her head as she took him in, before holding up her own cigarette between two fingers. "depends," she mused, her voice smooth, a little teasing. "you a beg, borrow, or steal kind of guy?" without waiting for an answer, she reached into the pocket of her cropped leather jacket, pulling out her lighter and flicking it to life. she held it up, the flame casting a warm glow between them. "go on then. but if i light you up, you owe me something interesting." her lips curled into a smirk, amusement dancing in her eyes as she met his gaze. "so, what’s got you slumming it here tonight? lost a bet or just feeling adventurous?"

special delivery for @billiethrills

Going to Seduction was something that Asher hadn't done in a lot - he rather frequent good old dive bars, or just end up staying at his mother's restaurant with his friends - but a promise was a promise. He had told one of his buddies that he would go and so a few others inside a sweaty, blaring loud strip club wasn't the worst - as long as he got the chance to smoke. Stepping outside, he searched for his Marlboro red, a constant he must have - until he realized he didn't have a light. Looking around, he spotted someone nearby. "Hey, uh - you wouldn't happen to have a light, would you?"

[billiethrills]

the music thrums through the club, a steady, pulsing beat that she’s long since learned to tune out. seduction is alive with movement — bodies swaying, laughter spilling between hushed conversations, the scent of perfume and whiskey lingering in the air. she’s behind the bar, not working, just killing time between sets, a half-finished drink in front of her that she swirls absentmindedly. when the man leans against the counter, addressing her, she flicks her gaze toward him, cool and measured. she takes her time answering, letting the question hang between them as she looks him over. "newish," she replies finally, her voice smooth, edged with amusement. "been here long enough, though. maybe you just haven’t been paying attention." she lifts her drink to her lips, taking a slow sip before setting it back down, tilting her head slightly. he’s not the usual type she entertains here — not one of the desperate men throwing cash just to feel wanted for a night. he carries himself like he knows the place but doesn’t belong to it, not really. "so, what brings you here?" she asks, tracing a nail along the rim of her glass. "doesn't seem like you're here for the show."

Location: Seduction Status: Closed @billiethrills

Seduction. It wasn't a place he visited often or hung out at. He was only really here when Jason was working or when he needed to buy drugs from the other MC members. The place didn't have the same appeal as it used to now that him and Vittoria were official, but it did make him think back to the other night in that lovely lace lingerie he got her. Leaning against the bar he sipped on his drink, "You knew here?" He questioned the blonde. "Don't think I've seen you around here before."

[billiethrills]

"three mil?" billie raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening as she leaned against the arcade machine, arms crossed. the neon glow from the screens reflected off her sharp features, making her look like she owned the whole place, as if the arcade itself were just another stage for her. "well, i guess some people just have too much time on their hands." she glanced at the screen with a playful tilt of her head, clearly not all that impressed. "but hey, i’d be happy to show you how it’s done. if you're ready to lose to someone who knows how to handle a joystick." she flashed a confident grin, ready to prove that maybe, just maybe, she could top even that impossible score.

𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯: highest score 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳: @sinnerssquarehq

Going to the arcade was one of Cameron's favorite past times. Over the years she tried her hand at placing first on the scoreboard for a multitude of games but the closest she's gotten was second place on the giant pac-man game.

After a particularly sweaty match a pacman, Cameron reached a high score of a whopping 999,998 points, falling a mere 2 points short of her highest score of 1 million points. The bright lights of the game reflected on her face as she input her initials....CAM.

Feeling the presence of someone watching her and she turned, motioning at the giant screen. "I'm not saying this game is rigged...but i don't know how someone managed to get 3 million points."

[billiethrills]

billie priestley leaned against the edge of the pool table, a mischievous smile tugging at her lips as she watched hero’s move. her eyes flickered from the cue ball to his confident posture, and she took a slow sip from her drink, the amber liquid dancing in the glass. she raised an eyebrow as she walked around the table, casually flicking a pool stick from the nearby rack and snapping it into her hands. she twirled it once, the motion smooth, like she'd done this a thousand times before. her eyes never left hero’s as she leaned over the table, fully aware of the attention she was getting. "lucky? maybe," she drawled, her voice dripping with confidence. "but i’ve got a knack for spotting a bluff, and i don’t think you’ve got me figured out yet." with a playful grin, she lined up her shot, her fingers wrapped expertly around the stick. "you might wanna watch out, though. i don’t play by anyone’s rules but my own." she took her shot, the cue ball sinking a solid with a satisfying thud, and straightened up with a smirk. "your move."

location: local pool bar, late night closed starter ( @billiethrills)

Hero lined up his shot, rolling his shoulders loose before sending the cue ball gliding smooth across the table. The sharp thunk of the break echoed beneath the low murmur of conversation, and he watched as the solid sunk easy into the corner pocket, right where he wanted it.

Leaning on his cue stick, he let his gaze flick to the newcomer, dark eyes sharp beneath the brim of his ever-present smirk. He took his time looking them over, weighing them like he would an opponent—calculating, but easy about it, like he already knew how this was gonna play out.

"Not use to an audience, not unless i'm takin' there money. Feelin' lucky? "

The question was casual, but there was a quiet challenge there, buried beneath the slow drawl of his voice. Hero wasn’t one to turn down a game, but he sure as hell wasn’t one to play fair, either.

[billiethrills]

she let out a low, amused chuckle, drumming her fingers lightly against her glass. “see, this is why i love going out with you,” she mused, eyes flicking toward abby with a smirk. “we’re not just here to drink — we’re here to uplift women in crisis.” she took another sip, gaze sliding back to the couple. the guy looked like he was trying to dig himself out of a hole that was already six feet deep, while his girlfriend only seemed more unimpressed by the second. billie shook her head, exhaling through her nose. “nah, there’s no saving this. he’s done. cooked. look at him — he’s got that i just realized I left the oven on face. he knows he’s fucked.” with a slow, knowing grin, she turned back to abby. “so, what’s the plan? we wait for the fatal blow and then swoop in with a victory shot? or do we just send one over now, preemptively, as a little congrats on losing the dead weight gift?”

"mhm," abby hummed, a nod following. she didn't know why it was so difficult for some men to get with the program. it irked her how they acted so surprised when their significant others decided to voice their grievances. it was frustrating on a new level, really. "men continue to be disappointing. not really press worthy, though," she said, shrugging. she had learned long ago to not expect too much from anyone, because it spared her being let down. abby chuckled lowly, another nod of the head. "well, if you ask me, i'd say he probably deserves it if she does flip the table," she stated. "he's gotta man up or let her go. there's plenty of real men out there who'd put a ring on her finger," the woman mentioned before tsking. "oh, absolutely not. i'm waiting for her to tell him its over so i can invite her over for a drink and commend her."

[billiethrills]

billie leaned against the bar, one elbow propped up as she stirred the melting ice in her glass with a lazy flick of her wrist. seduction was its usual blend of heat, neon, and the pulse of bass-heavy music vibrating through the walls. the scent of expensive perfume mixed with liquor, and the air was thick with the kind of promises that were only half-meant. she barely glanced up at evie’s voice, recognizing someone new when she heard them. instead, she took a slow sip of her drink, letting the question linger between them before finally turning to face her. "oh, doll," billie mused, amusement playing at the edges of her lips. "you’d be surprised. deals get made here all the time — some just involve more cash than contracts." she let her gaze sweep over evie, assessing, curious. the woman looked out of place in the way someone did when they weren’t used to this kind of atmosphere, like she was here for a reason but not the usual ones. interesting. "so, what kind of business brings you to a place like this?" billie asked, tilting her head slightly. "because something tells me you’re not here to appreciate the finer aspects of the entertainment."

special delivery for @billiethrills

How did Evie find herself here, at Seduction? Evie had accepted a business meal request by some insider with information, apparently, and they had only contacted her to say to meet her at Seduction, the strip club. Evie wasn't the strip club type of girl, but she certainly would never turn down an offer to write up a good report - she wouldn't be able to live with herself if she had denied it. Sitting down at the packed bar, she looked around, seeing if she could identify who the person she was waiting for. A few minutes had gone by - and she figured that she might as well get a drink. "So - do a lot of people have business meetings here or just me?"

[billiethrills]

billie moved through the club like she was built for it, like she had been stitched together from cigarette smoke and dollar bills, wrapped in the kind of confidence that made men weak and women envious. every step was a calculated move, every glance a silent command. she knew how to make them look, how to make them linger, how to make them open their wallets without a second thought. a teasing brush of fingers along a shoulder, a coy tilt of her head, the slow drag of her lips into a smirk that promised everything and nothing all at once — it was a performance, one she had perfected long ago. she played them effortlessly, slipping between conversations, laughter spilling from her lips as she leaned in just enough to keep them wanting more. the high rollers got a little extra attention, the regulars got a knowing smile that made them feel special, and the fresh blood? well, they were the easiest. all it took was a well-placed sigh, a subtle pout, a whisper of you seem different from the others — and suddenly, their hands were digging into their pockets, eager to please, eager to be the one she remembered. the money came easy, crisp bills tucked into the strap of her outfit, slipped into her palm, offered with that desperate, hopeful look she had seen a thousand times before. by the time she locked eyes with camilo across the room, her smirk was sharp, victorious. she knew she had made a killing. the question was, had he? when she finally stepped into the changing room, it was like she owned the place, the smirk on her lips practically stitched in place as she sauntered toward her locker. the energy in the room shifted the second she entered, a ripple of unspoken acknowledgment passing through the air. she didn’t even need to look camilo’s way to know he was watching, waiting, wondering. she took her time, unfastening the thin straps of her top with slow, deliberate movements, rolling her shoulders like she was shedding the remnants of the night along with her outfit. only then did she glance over, catching the last of his laughter as he pocketed a crisp twenty from one of the girls. "must be nice, huh?" billie mused, voice silky as she leaned back against the lockers, one leg crossing over the other. "conning your way through the night while i actually worked for my cut." her gaze flicked to him, sharp, teasing, a glint of something dangerous dancing behind her eyes. "real cute. but let’s not pretend you didn’t stack the deck." she ran a hand through her hair, flipping it over one shoulder before finally pushing off the lockers and closing the space between them, slow, unhurried, savoring every inch of control. she stopped just shy of invading his space, her lips curving as she tilted her head. "so?" she prompted, arching a brow. "who’s walking away with more tonight?" her voice dropped, just for him. "because unless you got something real impressive up your sleeve, i think we both know who won."

How sweet being underestimated tasted on the tip of his tongue. Especially when it came from someone like her. With each second her gaze practically burned a mark of her undivided attention into whichever part of his body she was looking at in that moment, and he wouldn't have had in any other way. He could only hope she enjoyed the show. There was so much he could've shown, too. All of this was only the appetizer. "Let me worry 'bout my own thing, beautiful! If I talk big, dream big, and ain't got nothing to back it up later, that's on me. But you're in the same boat. You're talkin' as big as I am. Which is cute, by the way..." She pulled her hand back, warm against his own cold, their touch lingering for a couple of seconds before it was all gone again. "How could I be your number one fan if I don't even know your name, hm? Y'know what? Don't even worry about it. I'll know it by the end of the night anyway." His gaze dropped to her hips as soon as she turned away, just like she probably meant for it to happen. "And you'll know mine." It was only a whisper, barely audible over the music in the club. He glanced up at her again just in time, mirroring her smile before pushing himself away from the doorframe. "I like it when you call me pretty." The game was on after that, and as soon as she grabbed the crowd's attention, Camilo slipped into the background. He didn't need a lot of people. Only one or two of the right ones, with enough money to spend, naive enough to manipulate, or lost enough to be swindled. Everything went well, with most eyes fixated on her, he could easily get into character for his made-up role of the charming but profoundly sad little guy that needed help, with eyes of a sweet, innocent little doe in need of a helping hand. They only changed when his eyes met hers from across the room, sending a wink her way before his smile dropped again, and his attention was back on the poor soul he was scamming money out of. He needed to win this, which is why he might've gone overboard with it, probably having to lay low for a while after tonight, and especially avoid this place, but if it all went according to plan, it would all be worth it. After a few hours the clientele had thinned out, and Camilo had just finished walking an older (and a lot less richer after what he had made her do) lady outside after dozens of fancy ways of saying thank you in Spanish, and he was sitting in the changing room chatting with the other girls, taking twenty dollars from one of them with a laugh (and another thank you) as he waited for his opponent to finish up as well.

[billiethrills]

billie’s grin spread wider, a flash of teeth, as she listened to brooklyn’s determination. there was something in the way brooklyn spoke now — less weighed down, more defiant — that billie couldn’t help but admire. she gave a slow nod, swirling what was left in her glass. “that’s what i like to hear,” she said, her tone edged with approval. “you’ve got more fire in you than you give yourself credit for. and when you take those steps — when it all starts falling into place — don’t forget what it feels like right now. this? this moment where you’re deciding it’s time to stop playing small? that’s the kind of fuel that’ll keep you burning bright.” she leaned against the bar again, posture relaxed but eyes sharp, locking onto brooklyn’s. “and you’re damn right they didn’t take the best parts of you. they never will. they're yours, brook. and when you start wielding those? the people who doubted you won’t know what hit them.” billie paused, a flicker of genuine pride crossing her face. she drained the last of her drink and set the glass down with a satisfying clink, brushing her hair back as brooklyn teased her. billie let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. “oh, you wanna see how it’s done, huh? alright.” her smirk returned, sharper now, as she turned toward the stage, already pulling on that air of untouchable confidence she wore like a second skin. billie shot her a playful wink over her shoulder. “but remember this, sweetheart — i don’t just give them a show. i make them believe i’m the best damn thing they’ll ever see, even if they couldn’t touch it in their dreams.” with that, she strutted toward the stage, the sway of her hips deliberate, commanding, as the room seemed to hush in anticipation. she didn’t look back, but her voice carried just enough for brooklyn to hear, tinged with amusement and encouragement. “keep making those moves, babe."

Brooklyn watched the shift of her stance and she too leaned against the bar before waving over a bartender. She was mostly done for the night besides some private dances so she would have a drink to take down some of the edge she was feeling. Brooklyn listened to the girl's words, she had a good point. "Yeah, I get that." She exhaled, "I thought they took the best parts of me already but I don't think they have." There was so much more to her than her body. She had a sharp mind and she was creative. She was starting to work with Giada and learn. She was starting to model too and she liked every second of it. Billie always gave her the best advice and it was one of the reasons she valued working with her and being her friend. "You really would?" She let out a small laugh, Billie was always so supportive and never looked at her with judgment. The bartender passed her a drink and she brought it to her lips. "I plan on making them a fool of themselves. I am going to go all the way and when I look back they will still be here, throwing their money at the next set of girls they bring in here." Brooklyn hoped the shit that happened to her would not repeat itself. With Oxana in charge, she knew she was safe here now. "That is the plan. I have a few things in motion that are some first steps, nothing set in stone yet to share but I'm done with just surviving. I am gonna start living for me." It was a promise she was holding herself to. "I'm sure you will have something for us to toast too, but if all goes well, I will too." She said with a smile, Henry was working on setting everything up for her to go back to school. "I'm sure I'll be okay, but I'll let you know if I need anything. In the mean time get that pretty little ass of yours on stage and show me how it's done."

[billiethrills]

billie let his words hang in the air, her smirk widening into something sharper, more dangerous, like the edge of a blade just before it pressed into skin. "dream big, huh?" she repeated, her voice smooth and honeyed, the kind of tone that could either soothe or burn depending on how she wielded it. "cute. but dreaming big doesn’t mean you can back it up, pretty boy." her nails lightly tapped against his hand as he held hers, his thumb brushing over her knuckles like he had any right to act so familiar. her gaze flicked to where their hands touched, then back up to his face, dark eyes glittering with mischief. "oh, you’re my fan, alright," she teased, pulling her hand back with a deliberate slowness, like she wanted him to feel every second of her retreat. "probably my number one. but don’t worry, i’ll try not to let it go to my head." her lips curled into a grin that wasn’t so much a smile as it was a challenge, a dare for him to keep going, to keep playing her game. because that’s all this was to her — a game she intended to win, like she always did. she tilted her head, her hair cascading over one shoulder as she studied him again, her grin unwavering. "you talk a big game for someone who’s already sweating," she said, her voice dipping low, smoky. "but, hey, i like your optimism. it’s kinda endearing. makes it more fun to crush you when the time comes." she stepped back, her hips swaying just enough to hold his attention as she turned slightly toward the crowd. "bold of you to assume you’ll even come close to earning them. but go ahead, surprise me." she shot him a wink over her shoulder before fully turning back to him, her smirk still firmly in place. "oh, and your favor? better be good, because if it’s not, i’ll make you regret wasting my time." with that, she crossed her arms loosely over her chest again, leaning back against the doorframe with a casual confidence that only made her look more untouchable. "now, let’s see if you’re as good as you think you are, pretty boy. time to put up or shut up." billie didn’t waste another second. with a final glance back at camilo, she slipped into the crowd, moving effortlessly through the thrumming chaos like a predator stalking her prey. her presence was magnetic, a slow, calculated dance of confidence that had heads turning, eyes lingering longer than they should, just like she’d intended. she worked the room with an easy, practiced grace, leaning in to laugh at a joke, brushing past a group of regulars with a teasing smile, and all the while keeping her movements sharp and deliberate, like a well-rehearsed play. the energy shifted in her wake, and she fed off it, knowing every glance she caught was another tiny victory, another point in her favor. she played her role to perfection, weaving charm and danger into every interaction, ensuring she stayed in control, leaving the crowd both drawn to and afraid of her. every time she caught camilo’s eye from across the room, she flashed him a smirk, daring him to keep up, daring him to think he stood a chance. if he wanted to win, he was going to have to work harder than that. much harder.

Whether it was her laughing with or at him didn't really matter, not when it sounded so sweet, like one of those rich black forest cakes with just enough whipped cream between layers of chocolate and cherry that made him want so much more. He was almost grateful for the moment of silence falling between them after her laugh, for Camilo had time to gather himself and actually be able to focus on what she was saying next instead of being completely consumed by that laugh of hers sounding over and over again in his head. He nodded as an answer to her teasing question, humming along with a bite on his lower lip that he soon let go of to speak again. "Maybe I just ain't afraid to dream big." It was the truth, too. Whatever would he pass up on this opportunity for? She was putting on such an amazing act of woman whose every move, every word, every breath radiated nothing but an otherworldly sexuality that made everyone feel lucky to be in her presence. And there he was, feeling awfully lucky. "Oh, I'm your fan now? That doesn't sound too bad..." She leaned in again, and his breath hitched, freezing in place but refusing to put any distance between them, for that would mean back away from her challenge. It was torture. And she did it so well. It took him a moment, but eventually his gaze dropped to her lips, again, and he moved. Closer, in fact, if that was even possible, with mere inches between their faces, her breath hot on his skin. "So do I." She finally pulled back, and Camilo could look up and breathe again, taking her hand gently, with his thumb caressing over her knuckles. "Do your best mami, can't wait to win all your tips! Oh, and you're gonna love my favor!"