What a creep.
That was the first thing you ever consciously thought about him. You had always seen him with Fish, lurking around. Then when you were having a smoke outside in the alley, you witness him beating a man mercilessly. You make a face like you smell something rotten.
What's a lackey like him doing dirty work for? He had asked if he could help the bruisers. What a sicko. You quickly turn away. You don't want to be the next victim, someone who saw too much. You inhale the smoky poison into your lungs and blow it out through your pursed lips. Taking one last puff, you glace behind you before heading back into the club. When you look, a pair of icy eyes are staring you. Below them, a sly smirk. It sent chills down your spine.
What a creep.
"I'm sorry you had to see that," says a voice behind you. You tense up immediately. You know the voice.
"Oswald," you chime, forcing a smile as you turn to face him. You'd been wiping tables with a towel. "I don't know what you're talking about."
His mouth twisted up even more. "You know my name, I'm surprised. A little delighted, even."
"Why wouldn't I? You're Miss Mooney's pet. Everyone knows you." Now you, you're just a server. But you're content with that. It's a well-paying job, and if you play dumb and pretend you don't hear anything but orders, it's safe.
"More like a slave," he laughs. "Fish doesn't actually like me all that much. There's nothing going on between us."
You scoff. "That's no one's business but yours and hers. Besides, why would you deny it? That's something to brag about, really. You're higher than most."
"Oh, I just don't want you to get the wrong idea. Let's be honest with each other." Smirk.
You throw your towel down angrily. "Honestly, I hate that stupid, sick smile you always have on your face. Like you know something no one else does. I get the urge to knock your teeth out every time I see it, but I don't because I don't hit people for no reason." You spit the last two words, knowing he's not stupid enough to miss the hint.
His eyebrows raise and the smile drops from his face. He looks concerned more than offended. "Well, honestly, dear, I find myself rather fond of yours. It's so innocent and pure. Your genuine smile, the one you give sincerely." He put his thumb and index finger on either side of your chin lightly. "But, actually…I think I like the one you give me more. The one with hidden spite and fire." He pulls you in, his mouth close to your ear. He said softly, like he was telling you a secret, "Just like mine."
With that, he draws back, his face serious. He looks at you with his cool gaze, then casually strides away, leaving you shaking with both anger and fear.