A really short chapter that will be followed by a longer one, sometime. I won't make any promises, because they're too easy to break.
Chapter 3: Of New Beginnings With Old Friends
Angel dragged Mimi to the audition, but only to drop her off.
"I'd stay," Angel said hurriedly as they made their way to the club. "But I have a date." Angel's excitement showed on his face as easily as anything.
"You really think I can do this?" Mimi asked worriedly. "I mean, I don't have much experience…"
"You're a little young," Angel admitted. "And you look even younger, but who knows? Maybe that's what they're looking for." He gave her a wicked smile. "You'll be great."
"I hope so," Mimi stared up at the sign to the club. The Cat Scratch Club. It didn't look like heaven, but Mimi's salvation may rest behind those doors.
The room was full of girls. Some were tall, others short. Many girls were stretching their limber bodies in unnatural positions while a few were in a corner, not even bothering to cover up the fact that they were snorting coke. Mimi was painfully reminded that it had been a day since her last hit. One thing they all had in common was the look they had in their eyes, the one that said they'd lived so much longer than what their age would suggest.
Taking a nametag and a number, Mimi went into a corner by herself. Recalling her long ago dance lessons, she remembered what her teacher had told her. Confidence was everything. Walk into the room and own it, as if you've already got the part. Be courteous, but aggressive.
"You're sure to get in," a man who'd somehow gotten backstage said nonchalantly to Mimi.
"What?" Mimi shook her head. "I haven't even auditioned yet."
"You've got the look," he explained quietly. "All these girls, they all have sex appeal. But you…you've got something else. That X factor. You're sexy and raunchy and innocent all at the same time. Guys would kill to see you in one of those Catholic school girl outfits."
Mimi wasn't sure whether she should be flattered, disgusted or offended, but decided to hide whatever she was feeling behind a mask of cool confidence. "Thanks. Who are you?"
"What's your name?" He ignored her question. "I know the manager, maybe I could put in a good word for you."
"Mimi. Marquez."
"I have a feeling I'll be seeing you Mimi."
"What's your poison?" The girl near Mimi asked her as soon as the man had left.
"What?" This constant stream of conversation between people she didn't know was confusing her.
"Oh, come on, you don't have to be shy. What is it? Coke, acid, what?"
Shit, how did this stranger know? Mimi's panic must've shown on her face, because the girl jumped in again.
"You must be new. Really new. That guy you were just talking to is the biggest drug dealer around. Whatever you want, he has."
Mimi looked back at the mysterious man's fast retreating back. She would definitely be seeing him.