A/N: Ok, so I had some questions last time. First of all, this isn't some cheesy club where the strippers give lap dances and get money placed in their thongs. Though, I love to place money in Eric's thong. Sigh…I digressed…again. This is a more upscale male/female review club. I wouldn't demean Eric by making him give lap dances to people…well maybe to Sookie…eventually. I hope my intent shapes up better in this chapter.

I swear, I will work on the first chapter of the sequel to Dead at the Moment for all who are asking. The Arrogant Ass is just speaking to me, in more ways than one.

If this story isn't for you, don't read it. It gives me an excuse to use crude humor and write in lots of sexual innuendoes all the while putting Eric into one of my favorite fantasies. This story is rated M for a reason.

Oh, and many of the characters are OOC or out of character. This is evident in this chapter.

Thank you all to the amazing response to this story, I hope I won't disappoint.

I forgot this in the last chapter, I own nothing, though I wish. Eric and all the other wonderful characters belong to Charlaine Harris, though I coined the phrase Mr. Arrogant Ass.

Chapter 2- Mr. Hot Pants

"Hmm, girl, I'm so glad you came along. We definitely need to improve your fashion sense," Lafayette teased as I got out of my car in Hooligans parking lot. I promised Claudine and Lafayette that I'd give myself over to them so they could help improve my confidence and fashion sense. I looked down at the outfit I had on. I couldn't quite figure out what he was talking about. I had on wide-leg jeans and one of my favorite tees my Gran gave me, granted it was of Hello-Kitty, but I loved it just the same.

Looking around I noticed that it was just us, "Where's Claudine?"

He made some annoyed noise, waved his hand in the air while he answered, "She loves to be fashionable late, making her grand entrance and all. I just hope she drags that fine piece of ass brother along with her. I'd like to slap me some of that." He made a swat at my ass that actually made me jump. I don't think he even managed to touch me, but I wasn't used to a man, even a gay one, being so physical.

"Umm, girl you need to learn not to be so jumpy. Wait until all those man handlers get a hold of you Saturday night." My stomach churned and I felt like I was going to throw up. I had to let people touch me? "Breathe, Sook, you're as white as a sheet. They swat your ass; you hit them right back. Easy. The more physical you are, the bigger tips you'll get."

I nodded my head, but I couldn't shake the nausea. Instead, I tried to change the subject, "So, I thought we couldn't date co-workers; didn't you just imply that you would date Claudine's brother. What's his name again?"

He raised one eyebrow at me, "His name is Claude. I don't want to date him, I just want to launch his missile." I don't think I ever heard the phrase 'launch his missile' used in that type of a sentence before, but from the context I had a pretty good idea what it meant and it had nothing to do with NASA. A warm blush spread across my face and I turned my head so Lafayette wouldn't notice, but of course, he did.

"Girl, you gotta get over this fear of sexual convo. If I didn't know any better I'd say you still had your v-card." He let out a short laugh, and from my paled expression he stopped dead in his tracks.

"You're a V?"

I was completely immobilized with fear of dying from embarrassment. I had never admitted that to anyone and I wasn't sure I wanted to now, but I was caught like a deer in headlights; there was no going back. I simply nodded my head and shut my eyes waiting for the roar of laugher at my inability to bag a man or launch a missile, whatever the proper connotation might be.

I opened my eyes after a few seconds to see Lafayette staring at me. "You're serious?"

"Yes, I just…I don't know…haven't met anyone?" I fumbled through my words trying to explain myself.

"A gorgeous knockout like you? That's hard to believe."

"I kind of have a problem with awkwardness and lots of word vomit." He gave me this confused look, so I continued, "I never say the right thing at the right time. I got this reputation in high school…they called me crazy Sookie and it kinda stuck."

"High school is over. We are so gonna fix this and get you a much needed lay."

"I don't think…I can't…"

"That's the problem girl, you think too much. Can you add?"

"What? Sure, I like math."

"Sex is just like math; you add the bed, subtract the clothes, divide the legs and pray you don't multiply." He said it with such a straight face that I threw my head back in laughter.

After I sobered up my chuckles a bit, I clarified my new fear, "You're not gonna tell anyone are you?"

"Na, I wanna make sure that you stick around. You're a lot of fun to taunt and tease." Just then, Claudine pulled up in her BMW, making her grand entrance. Getting out of her car, I never saw anyone so decked out for shopping at the mall. She had on a short tight black dress with a wide belt that hung on her hips. She completed the outfit with high lace-up red leather heeled boots. She had, clutched in her hand, a bright yellow hand bag that somehow didn't match, but completed the outfit nicely. Over her eyes she had very large white sunglasses that covered half her face. If I wore those I'd look like a bug, but on her, she looked like a movie star.

"Ready to paint the town?" She said as she stood with her car door opened.

"Where's your hunky other half?" Lafayette asked as he wiggled his eyebrows at her and made his way over to the passenger side of her car swaying his hips the entire time.

"He needs his beauty rest. He may join us for a late lunch though." I followed Lafayette's lead and slid into the backseat of her swanky BMW. It made me wonder how she could afford such a thing, but being the Southern lady that I am, I knew it was rude to ask.

"Honey that man couldn't get any prettier."

Claudine gave Lafayette a pointed look before saying, "Try telling him that. If he has one hair out of place or any blemish on his face he freaks out like a teenage girl with a zit on the day of her prom. He is convinced that if he doesn't get a full twelve hours of sleep his skin lacks glow. He still fights that jealously complex every night since that arrogant ass was hired. Claude's not the main attraction anymore and it really stabs at his pride." She turned around to me, "Pardon me Sookie, I don't believe I got a chance to wish you good morning before I was rudely engaged in convo with Mr. Hot Pants here."

I wished her a good morning, and then she peeled out of the parking lot. It surprised me when we passed the mall exit on the highway, but I didn't say anything knowing that I was with expert shoppers and they had a planned destination. It was about another ten minutes before we pulled into a shopping plaza. I hesitantly stepped out of the car and walked behind Ms. Supermodel; I wasn't quite up to her caliber and felt inept next to her.

Claudine stopped in her tracks, "If you plan on wearing Hello-Kitty wear her proud. Straighten up and walk next to me." She grabbed my arm linking it with hers, melting away my awkwardness. I held my head a little higher as Lafayette grabbed my other arm and we skipped, almost like in the Wizard of Oz, into the first store.

Once inside the store, I quickly skidded to a halt, because forgive me father for I have sinned I spied a dildo on display front in center of the store entrance. I felt a bead of sweat on my forehead when I realized they came in a variety of colors and sizes, holy mother of fucking cheesecake!

Lafayette picked up on my anxiety…again, and whispered in my ear, "Come on, what we want is in the back of the store, but from the looks of things, we might want to pick up one of those too. Perhaps the beige extra large one to remind you of your hot studly arrogant blond bombshell?"

I swatted him in the arm and he said, "That's my girl, hit those bad boys." A coy smiled played on his lips as he pulled me to the back of the store. "There's hope for you yet, doll."

I hissed through my teeth, "What kind of clothes do you find in a sex shop?"

He looked at me like I had two heads, "Sexy ones, and from the looks of things, you need all the help you can get." He looked me up and down, appraising my outfit…again, and shook his head.

"More like sluty ones," I mumbled under my breath.

Claudine, on the other hand, was like a busy bee, racing around the racks of clothes looking for the perfect ones to buy. I actually had to lift my arms up to catch the clothes she threw in my direction. I followed her around like her servant as she piled clothes high in my arms. Before I knew it I was being shoved in the dressing room left to my own demise trying to put on clothes when I couldn't figure out which were tops and which were bottoms. I finally decided that the ones on coat hangers were tops.

Still confused on what went with what I asked Claudine for help, "Umm, Claudine, what went with this top?" I held, what I presumed to be a top over the dressing room door.

I heard her give a very loud exasperated sigh before she answered, "That, my dear goes over your booty. The red shimmery top goes with it."

I sighed, knowing this was going to be one long shopping trip. After a zillion tops and bottoms later and endless modeling of my self-conscious self to two very determined critics, I actually had two outfits that I thought I might be able to wear. The only problem was, both outfits came to about all of last night's salary. I decided to only get one and come back for the other another time.

I came out of the dressing room, outfit in hand, while Claudine was busy at the accessory counter.

"Sookie, this belt would look fuckin'-fan-tabulous with that first outfit." She spun around noticing that said outfit was no longer in my arms. "Where is it?" Her head glanced from side to side like she was an eagle zeroing in on its prey.

"Umm…I decided that I would get one outfit today." How much more eloquently could I put, I can't afford the other damn outfit that actually appeared to have shrunk my thighs.

With a huff she stated, "Well, I'll get it for you then." Without even bothering to ask, she strutted back over to the dressing room to reclaim my discarded outfit.

"Claudine, I know you mean well, but I can't accept that."

Totally ignoring me she fished around on the rack for my outfit. "Come now Sookie; just think of me as your fairy godmother or better yet, a 'welcome to my world' gift."

"Claudine, I can't. It's not appropriate to accept such a gift."

She placed her hands on her hips, "Oh really, by whose standards."

"Well…mine. My Gran raised me never to accept charity."

She gave me an annoyed look, but tried to rein it in before she continued, "I have money, and lots of it. This is no hardship for me. It would be my pleasure to do this for you."

I felt like I was arguing with a brick wall that wouldn't budge. I needed to think up a compromise before I really lost this losing battle. "Claudine, how 'bout, I'll let you pay, but I'll pay you back each week for what you spend on me."

She seemed to think my offer over before she conceded. "Fine, I'll let you pay me…ten dollars a week until it's all paid off." Knowing the amount wasn't worth arguing over, I agreed; I could always pay her more to expunge (word of the day) my debt faster. Since she was paying today, Claudine insisted that I buy the accessories and shoes to go with my outfits. She even picked out a pair of classy sunglasses that I had to admit looked good.

Then, she ordered, "Now go and change. You will not be going to lunch, even if it is only us and my brother, in that." She eyed me up and down and I knew it wasn't worth taking offense. I had just charged more than half my items to Carte de Claudine.

I changed into a skin tight red halter top that showed a bit of my midriff and a black tight miniskirt. She picked out sandals that I could actually wear with only a one inch heel. Coming out of the dressing room I spun around gaining a whistle from Lafayette and a nod of approval from Claudine.

She walked over to me, glasses in hand and said, "Last touch to complete the outfit." She handed me the sunglasses and I put them on. Turning to look in the mirror, I didn't even know the sexy semi-confident girl staring back at me, now if I could just keep the word vomit to a minimum…

Lafayette helped me with my packages because it was beyond Claudine to actually carry anything besides her clutch. Lafayette just smirked and rolled his eyes as Claudine swayed her hips and walked out the door leaving us standing there with all her packages and mine.

As we were putting the bags in the truck Lafayette gave me a sideways glance and casually said, "By the way, I got you a gift too. I figured that you needed one of those vagina teasers, so I got you the beige one figuring it'd get plenty of use." The packages actually fell out of my hand and hit the ground with a thud. I scrambled to pick everything up as I plotted Lafayette's slow and painful death.

Then I heard him chuckle, "Just kidding, but your reaction was totally worth it girl." After retrieving my bags, I stood up and slapped him hard, and dammit, it felt good.

Lafayette flinched and grabbed his arm, "Damn girl, you're learnin' fast."

Claudine sped down the road traveling way too fast. Her cell phone rang and I held on for dear life while she answered it. Didn't she know the safety ramifications of driving while distracted? Thankfully it was a short conversation and she hung up the phone in only a few seconds.

"That was Claude, he says he's bringing someone, but wouldn't say who." She shrugged her shoulders while she spoke to Lafayette.

He couldn't be bringing… no, from what I got from all the previous conversations they weren't that good of friends. Still, just hoping caused heat to rise to my nether regions and I couldn't help but think of that sheer sheet from the night before. Stop it Sookie, you're getting all hot and bothered for nothing. I tried to focus my mind on something else, but it kept drifting back to that very lucky sheet that was draped over… Stop it Sookie!

I actually had to open the window in the backseat even though the air was on in the car. I used the excuse that I was feeling a bit sick, but really I just needed air before I sweated off my clothes. We pulled up to an upscale restaurant that had outdoor seating. I had never been to it before and hoped that it wasn't too pricy, spending quite a bit of money today I couldn't afford to spend much more.

Thankfully Claudine decided on outdoor seating; I needed the cool breeze really bad. My nerves were fried and I couldn't figure out if I was anticipating work tonight or outright dreading it. I felt like I was a jumbled mess and it was all because of some hot arrogant stripper.

The three of us sat down and ordered drinks and it didn't escape my notice that there were two empty chairs. I knew that one would occupy Claude, but I was afraid of the mystery guest.

I didn't have to wait for long as Claude and companion walked around from the side of the building. I tried not to show the disappointment on my face when it wasn't him, but I vaguely recognized the other man from that first trio routine the previous night. His companion at least had a smile, Claude looked…bored, like he had someplace better to be than will a bunch of co-workers. Claude immediately sat down and kissed his sister on the cheek, not even giving me a second glance or even saying 'hi' to the group before he picked up his menu. I was taken aback from the difference in personality from one twin to the other; Claudine was so outgoing and social whereas Claude appeared to grace us with his presence. His friend on the other hand, extended his hand.

"Hey, I saw you last night, but didn't get a chance to introduce myself; I'm Hoyt."

I shook his hands and said in my Southern drawl, "Nice to meet ya' Hoyt, I'm Sookie Stackhouse." I was pleased with myself that I managed to say 'hello' to someone new without tripping over my words, maybe the outfit did do something to my confidence.

Hoyt smiled back in an extremely friendly way and I got to examine, for the first time, what he looked like. He was certainly not as tall as his two other stage partners. His blond hair was neatly trimmed and gelled to perfection. He wore a T-shirt that accentuated all of his muscles and tight jeans. He looked good, really good.

Just as I was starting to feel comfortable among my new group of friends, I head a familiar chilling voice that caused me to look over the top of my menu in fear.

"Room for one more?" he spoke in the sultry voice that could dampen panties.

My eyes locked with Mr. Arrogant Ass who snickered in my direction. Claudine was the only one to make an effort to move as she grabbed another chair from a neighboring table. He didn't bother to explain himself and just assumed that he was invited to join our little party. Before I could say a word, not that I would have protested, Claudine put the extra chair next to me and Mr., aw hell, Mr. Gorgeous sat down right between me and Claudine. As he sat, I felt his leg brush mine sending an electric current through my body. It took all I had to stop the visible shiver that threatened to rock my body; this was going to be one hell of a long luncheon.

I tried not to make it obvious that I was looking at him. Pretending to scan the menu, my head down low, I glanced at him sideways. My eyes fixed on his tight jeans and something else. My eyes snapped back to my menu because the last thing I wanted was for him to see me looking at his package…again.

I couldn't concentrate on a damn thing and when the waitress came by to take our order I hadn't even decided yet. Hell, I hadn't actually looked at the menu yet. Everyone seemed to be ordering salads so I followed suit, but instead of ordering diet dressing, I went for the full blown ranch. Claudine eyed me but didn't say anything and I swear the arrogant gorgeous ass smirked.

Just as the waitress was about to walk away, Mr. Arrogant added, "I want a bowl of the soup of the day, too."

Now Claudine really stared and retorted, "Not watching your figure Northman?"

Northman? That was his last name and what a name it was. I had to mentally slap myself before I sighed aloud.

"Actually, I was inspired by our new waitress. What was your name again?" He looked at me and waited. I think I even heard a trace of an accent; he certainly wasn't from the South.

Oh! I was supposed to say something. "My name is Sookie." I think it was barely audible, but at least I didn't counter with something really stupid or even worse, not answer at all. It did not escape me that he did not introduce himself; assuming that I already knew exactly who he was.

Choosing my words carefully and reciting them over in my mind, I asked, "I thought I heard a hint of an accent. Where are you from originally?"

"Most people do not hear it much anymore. I am originally from Sweden. I came here when I was a boy with my parents."

Lafayette snorted, "Prince Charming graced the lady with a response?" I looked over at him and he had one eyebrow cocked looking at Mr. Arrogant.

"I only respond to those worthy of an answer." At that moment, I didn't know if I should gag or feel privileged. My heart was doing a happy dance while my mind chastised my heart for feeling that way over someone who was so rude to another.

After a long drawn out silence, Hoyt spoke up, "So Sookie, where do you live?"

"I live in Bon Temps with my Gran."

"You live with your Grandmother?"

"Yeah, both my parents died when I was young. I have a brother too; he lives in my parent's old house, while I stayed to help my Gran out."

"What made you apply for a job at Hooligans? Have you ever stripped before?" Was he looking at my chest? He couldn't be?

"Actually, I lost my job at Merlotte's when my boss decided to pack the place up. I didn't know Hooligans was a strip joint when I applied."

"I bet you were stunned."

"Stunned doesn't cover how I felt," I mumbled.

"Well, you did great last night. Any chance you'll be going up on stage anytime soon?" He wiggled his eyebrows at me. Was he flirting with me?

"No, I don't think so. I don't think…I could do that."

"You have the body for it." I couldn't stop the blush that warmed my cheeks at his compliment and the way his eyes lids flipped down accentuated his dimples made him all the more charming when he smiled. "I could show you a few moves? We could work on technique together?" I think I actually heard Mr. Arrogant snort.

I had a question that I needed to ask first. "How much would I have to actually…take off?" Out of the corner of my eye I could see the smirk that graced Mr. Arrogant's face.

"In practice nothing. For real, as much as you feel comfortable with; there is no actual requirement."

Claudine piped in, "You don't have to go topless; as long as you are flexible and can dance well, the crowd will be happy."

I responded, "I am pretty flexible." I couldn't believe I actually said that. Was I agreeing to try? I felt like I was sixteen all over again and playing truth or dare with my 'friends'. Why was I willing to even try something that was so far out of my comfort zone?

Lafayette had to put his two cents in, "Stand up girl, let me feel that tight ass of yours." I kicked him hard under the table.

He actually yelled before saying, "Damn girl, that hurt."

"Then you shouldn't even suggest touching my ass, even if you are gay." He winked at me letting me know I did well.

Our food came and we jokingly chitchatted through our meal; well Hoyt, Lafayette, Claudine and I did anyways. Mr. Arrogant didn't say one damn word, but I swear, he would glance sideways at me every so often. Hoyt made no bones about flirting with me. It was actually refreshing for a man to look at me and not think, crazy Sookie. Maybe Lafayette was right, high school was over and it was time to move on and find a new name for myself.

After lunch, Hoyt invited me back at the club to watch the guys work on their act. I was a little leery having a front row seat to tonight's show. But through persuasion, mainly puppy dog eyes from Claudine I conceded.

Once safely, well as safe as one could be with Claudine behind the wheel, inside the car Lafayette started the conversation, "Girl, did you see that arrogant ass giving Hoyt dirty looks when he was flirting with you?"

"Yeah, right. Why would he do that?"

"It's obvious hon, he digs you. Why else would he show his pretty, but too good for us, ass at our luncheon. He never comes out with us, but knows that we always eat there. He must've talked to Claude this morning and found out what we were doing," he mused.

"Whatever Lafayette." There was no way I was going to take any of what he said to heart. I was not getting my hopes up that I could catch the eye of someone like him.

Changing the subject he asked, "So you gonna strut your stuff on stage for us?"

I hesitated; I was having second thoughts about watching the pre-show. I had a feeling that I would be pushed on stage and make a fool out of myself in front of my co-workers. "Actually…I think…I'm going to bail. I was out all last night and gone this morning, Gran might need me to run a few errands before my shift tonight." I hoped that excuse seemed plausible; it seemed reasonable to me.

"Oh no you don't, just because somethin' sexy will be watching doesn't mean you get to high tail it and run." He waved his finger in my direction and all I thought was, busted!

"Really Lafayette, I have to go home to check on her. She getting up in years and it's my responsibility."

He was about to say something else when Claudine cut him off. "Let it go. I'll work with you tomorrow Sook, when no one else is around. Just the two of us, how 'bout that."

"Sounds like a plan, thank you for understanding."

"Don't mention it; plug your number into my phone." She tossed her phone back at me and I caught it. I added my name to her list of contacts then handed it back to her. Just about that time we pulled into the parking lot of Hooligans. I quickly grabbed my bags out of the trunk and hit the road. I didn't want to stick around and have to tell the guys I wasn't planning on staying, a cowardly act, I know.

After I was a few miles down the road, I pulled over and shimmied out of my skirt throwing my jeans quickly back on. I tossed my Hello-Kitty T-shirt over my new halter top and pulled back onto the road. Looked down at my outfit, I was relieved that Claudine made me change. I couldn't imagine having lunch with those guys and showing up in what I currently had on. Maybe it was time to spend some money on a more grown up wardrobe.

After about a thirty minute drive I pulled into my very potholed driveway. One of these days I'd have to see about getting it fixed. Skipping up the back stairs with my packages I was in a much lighter mood than I had been in a long time. I was very proud of myself for actually making it through a luncheon without embarrassing myself. Maybe there was hope for me yet.

I opened up the door and my senses were assaulted with blueberry pie, my favorite.

"Hello, darling." Gran came striding over to me to give me a hug. "How's my working girl today?"

"Fine, Gran. The pie smells wonderful."

"Oh, thank you darling; it will be done shortly. You went shopping did ya now?" She looked down at my packages and for the first time ever I was ashamed to show her what I bought.

Trying to skirt around the issue I said, "Yes, I went shopping with some of my new co-workers. Let me go put these things away." I don't know why I felt guilty for what I bought; I was twenty-six for crying out loud. Maybe I just thought my new outfits would put Gran in confession…for quite a while. Sigh. She was getting older and I worried about her heart; yeah right, keep telling yourself that, you're worried about what she'll think of you after she sees those outfits.

I made my way to my room to put my clothes away in my nice big walk-in closet. After I hung up my two outfits, I dumped the rest of the stuff onto my bed. I noticed a Ziploc bag, with foil in it? I picked it up and almost screamed, like I saw a mouse, but in actuality they were…condoms. Lafayette. There was even a sticky note inside. I was almost afraid to open the bag so I flipped it around so the note was visible from the outside. It read: To keep you safe from multiplying.

I actually cracked up. I knew that he would tease me endlessly about my virginity, but at least he would tease me in private. How he even got himself a Ziploc bag, I don't know, maybe it was from his own personal stash he carried around for emergencies. It could have been worse, at least I didn't find a dildo concealed in the packages.

I called out to Gran to see if she needed anything before I took a nap. She was all set, so I set my alarm just in case, and curled up on my bed to get some much needed rest.

*********

The club actually opened at seven for the late dinner crowd; I had no idea who would come to Hooligans for dinner and not dessert (har-de-har-har), but go figure. I arrived at six-thirty in my work outfit, that I shamefully hid from Gran again, but brought a change of clothes this time to put in my locker. I definitely had more confidence on my second night and boldly opened the entrance door. The first person I saw was Hoyt on stage practicing a solo routine.

As soon as he saw me he jumped down off the stage bare-chested with just a cowboy hat and ripped jeans on. The song, Save a Horse Ride a Cowboy, played in the background.

"Hey, you didn't stick around this afternoon?" I thought I detected a hint of disappointment in his voice, but I wasn't sure.

"No, I had to check on my Gran. I was gone all last night and this morning; I had to see if she needed anything before my shift."

"Well, it would have been good to have a new set of eyes see our acts. We choreographed a bit this afternoon and got into a heated disagreement." Then in a much lower voice he added, "That usually happens when that arrogant know-it-all is around." I just nodded my head it understanding and he winked at me before turning around and heading back up on stage.

I shook my head with a smile as I made my way down to the locker rooms. Pausing at the door, I tried not thinking about last night when I entered to see a very naked man set in front of my sights. Taking a deep breath, I cautiously opened the door. To my relief, I found myself all alone. Making my way over to my locker, I relished in the fact that my name was above it. Opening my locker I deposited my things inside. Just before I was about to close it I heard the door to the locker room open. Not giving it much thought, I continued what I was doing until I felt an arm brush mine sending chills through my body. I froze in my tracks because that could only mean that someone was standing next to me. Yup, the next thing I heard was the locker next to me open. Taking a quiet deep breath, I closed my locker door and without even a glance in his direction, I made my way out of the room. I couldn't even stand outside to catch my breath; I was too afraid that he'd come waltzing out and find me there.

I made my way over to the kitchen to calm myself in the confines of my hidey-hole, the corner. The one thing Lafayette was good at was distractions. He spied me sneaking in and asked, "Sookie, I need some help getting things in order tonight. How about you busy your pretty little self with helping me out?" I looked up at him and he winked at me and nodded his head.

I was relieved to busy myself in a kitchen, a place that was very familiar and safe for me. I knew that I'd have to be out on the floor in a little while but this served as a much needed calming distraction. Placing on an apron, Lafayette kept me busy by prepping different foods and sauces. Most of the things served at the club were short order foods, things that could be achieved with a grill. Most foods were fried, but they did have a few items on the menu dedicated to people watching their waistline. I found out two items on the menu were vegetarian choices specifically requested by Claudine. Lafayette had already prepared several special desserts, many of which were doused in hot fudge sauce. No subliminal messages there at all, none whatsoever.

I was just pouring the filling for a chocolate mousse pie when I noticed the time. It was getting late and the doors were about to be opened. Taking my apron off, I thanked him again for the much needed distraction and the calming effect he had on my nerves.

Just as I was exiting the kitchen, Claudine came barging in through the door. "We're opening in about two minutes; everything all set?" she questioned.

Lafayette gave her the thumbs up and I nodded my head and followed her back out. The rest of the waitresses were standing near their tables while they waited. The main attractions were nowhere to be seen, I guess they liked to make grand entrances as well. I kind of missed that part of the show last night and I was intrigued to see how they began.

Claudine took charge, which I found quite amusing, "Are we ready?" She looked at each waitress as she spoke looking for confirmation of her question. "Let's make it a good night." With that, she opened the doors speaking to Quinn and we were opened for business.

The hostess began seating individuals; there was quite a line outside already at this early hour. I stood back against the wall waiting for people to fill my section. I did have a pad and pencil, but unlike Merlotte's where I wore an apron with pockets, I had no place to actually put them. After my first table was settled I went over to take their drink orders. The menus, which didn't consist of much were already on each table, one less thing to worry about. I did the same thing for the next half hour as my tables filled up; the show didn't start until seven-thirty.

My tables were all sated for the time being as the lights darkened. Enrique Iglesias' Hero filled throughout the lounge. Three men in white navel uniformed pants and white tanks, that accentuated every chest muscle, graced the stage, marching in time to the beat. With their stiff jerky movements I would have sworn that they were actually in the armed forces if I didn't know any better. Three American Flags descended behind them on hooks that they turned sideways to salute. Hoyt caught my eye on a turn and gave a slight nod in my direction, it was a serious number and not one smile or smirk could be seen on any of their faces.

I can be your hero baby; I can kiss away the pain. I will stand by you forever; you can take my breath away…

I had almost forgotten with the surreal patriotic experience the show started out as, that they were strippers. When Enrique sang, I can be your hero baby, the three blond men, one being the arrogant ass, ripped their white tanks in time baring their chests to the audience. Really making the crowd go wild they threw the discarding tanks into the audience for girls to catch and fight over. Bouncers in front of the stage contained two crazed women fighting over halves of a discarded shirt.

The fight did nothing to hold my attention, however; I was transfixed on Mr. Arrogant's pants that rode so low that I could see the 'V' that formed down to his nether regions. I felt a sigh slip through my lips as I imagined my fingers grazing down his perfectly formed ab muscles. God was very, very kind when he created this man.

They marched around again in formation; I concluded that it was the same formation they started the act with. Woman were approaching the stage and dropping money into a shoot right on the outskirts of the stage that I hadn't noticed before. I had never really thought about that. I didn't observe enough of the acts the prior evening; I had always assumed the money would be dropped into a thong the dancer wore. I was relieved to know that I had been wrong.

I looked around to each of my tables and all eyes were transfixed on the stage so I settled in to watch a bit more. I looked around the room to note that I wasn't the only waitress doing that; that made me feel a bit better about neglecting my tables.

The next part of the refrain the 'soldiers' turned their backs to the audience and ripped their white pants clear off their body, all three sporting a very skimpy g-string thong. When they turned around I about died when the red little fabric that I saw from the back was covered in stars and stripes. I wanted to salute, say Amen, or break out in the Pledge of Allegiance thanking this country and God for allowing me to work at such a wonderful place.

Somehow, through the mass chaotic screaming all three remained impassive and composed as they strutted around the stage saluting, lifting their legs high off the ground as they marched. Once woman in the crowd even held a lighter in the air waving her hand.

Shaking my head, more to clear the image from my mind than anything, I went to check my orders in the kitchen. When I came out with a tray of food, I kept my head low and avoided the stage at all costs; I didn't want a repeat performance of last night. After quickly depositing my food, I made a hasty decision to take a peek. Making my way to the back of the lounge so I'd have something to brace again my back, I slowly turned around. Mr. Arrogant, actually all three, but I only had eyes for him, had the lower half of his body wrapped in the American Flag.

Bless me Father for I have sinned, holy mother of all cheesecake; I felt my face flush and it took all I had to keep the tray within my fingers. A fleeting thought came to my very warped and twisted brain, would our founding fathers approve of this use of the American Flag? I actually giggled at the absurdity of my thought as I made my way back over to the kitchen as quickly as I could without drawing attention to myself; really no one would probably notice besides…Mr. Arrogant.

I squatted down in the hidey-hole in the corner waiting for my next order to be up.

Lafayette's voice brought me out of my haze, "You saw the opening act, huh?"

I emphatically nodded my head up and down while I covered my face.

"Good thing I gave you those condoms, I think you'll have use for them sooner than you think." I swatted at him and he dodged away mocking me with his hurt expression. "You got another order up. Think you can go out there?"

"Yes," finally finding my voice. Standing up on my feet, I grabbed my waiting food and made my way out to that table. I resolved to focus only on my tables…and my tips. One track mind, I kept chanting to myself. I was absolutely determined to not look at the stage and I was doing a great job until the crowds erupted in frantic screams and it could be only one person who graced the stage…Mr. Arrogant. It could be nothing but trouble to look because he was dancing to, Let's Get It On Tonight, by Montell Jordan.

I swear I needed blinders, like the kind they make for horses. I was a glutton for punishment because I knew that I should ignore the entire thing, but my mind and body weren't cooperating. I could almost feel the hum in the air alerting me to his presence, like I could actually feel him in the room. I couldn't take the agony of it anymore and had to look. Making my way back against the wall, needed leverage again to hold me up in case I fell; I peered over at the stage.

He was dressed like a mobster clad in a pinstripe suit and a white brimmed hat tilted to the side. He looked magnificent swinging his cane with that look of pure distain that crossed his face. The more displeased he looked, the more the women and even men swooned. I was taken aback again, by his long lines and lean body. He knew the right way to move to show off his best features, specifically his most delicious ass.

Girl if it's alright, let's go somewhere and get it on tonight. You shouldn't have to be alone tonight…

Unconsciously I licked my lips as he tossed his jacket to the side and danced with one hand on his hat and his head down low defining his abdominal muscles. His chest was glistening wet only making me want to lick every drop of sweat or sex wax off him. I made a mental note to ask Lafayette later about that. Then, he dropped to the floor and it looked like he was making love and God dammit, I wanted to be the woman underneath him. He scanned the audience making contact with individuals then his eyes held mine. I felt mesmerized like he was calling me to him, the pull was so strong. He released me of his gaze a moment later and I finally felt like I was able to breathe. His hypnotic scrutiny captivated me and sent a burning desire through my body. Shaking myself, I walked back into the kitchen swearing that I wouldn't let my eyes wonder again.

It worked for the rest of the night, I was able to keep my head down low and focus on pleasing the women, and two men at my tables. I was terrified of the power that Mr. Arrogant held over me and I needed to overcome it…somehow. Fixing invisible blinders, only allowing myself to look in certain places helped.

With a sigh of relief, my evening drew to a close. The customers were gone and I was washing down my tables when Claudine came over to me, "You did alright tonight." She patted my back then went back to her cleaning. My tips were better than last night, maybe I was learning to control the distractions on the stage better…I only hoped.

Finishing up, I made my way down to the locker rooms. I was relieved that I was alone; maybe taking my time upstairs cleaning was a good thing. Opening my locker I began peeling off my work clothing. I was standing in my bra and underwear when the door opened, but I paid that person no mind and continued getting dressed. I had just pulled on my jeans when the door opened again and I heard Claudine's voice, "Tomorrow, I'll help you. How early is too early?"

I tried to think, "Umm, anytime after ten is fine."

"Alright, meet me here at ten-thirty and we'll work on your dancing."

Just then, an arm brushed mine and realization hit me of who the other person was in the room. The locker door next to me opened and I knew that Claudine was waiting for confirmation, so making sure that my voice was steady, I answered, "That's fine." I slammed my locker and leaned back against it only focusing on her, ignoring the gorgeous blond next to me.

She exclaimed, "Great! Here, let me text you so you have my number in case things change. We can work out after, and then meet Claude for a late lunch again." I nodded my head as she texted me. She leaned in for a hug and I remembered thinking how all the people who work here were touchy feely…say except for one.

I was in my car before I actually freaked out. He had seen me in my under things. The only thing that kept me from a full blow panic attack was knowing that my lacy white undergarments matched and looked good…damn good.

A/N: Please don't tell me that I disrespected the American Flag. If you've ever been to a male review or seen Chippendales they use the Flag as a prop all the time. I meant no disrespect and hope none of you are offended.

Thank you for the fantastic speed this chapter Charverv. I think that was a new record two freaking hours. You rock my socks!

So, what songs make you want to make love? What else floats your fantasies to see our Viking in? And song suggestions would be appreciated, that's actually the hardest part of writing this is picking perfect songs.