Chapter 113

Old School

Rhi POV

I can't believe I'm walking the Strip with the guys who started this whole nightmare vacation. I really can't believe I'm walking next to the guy who's face I broke my hand on. I can't help but sneak a look up at him through my eyelashes. He really is quite handsome. Fuck he's tall. I think he's even taller than Alex. They all might be, or at least the same height as him. I feel like a child next to them.

Alex. He is going to be pissed that I'm out and about by myself. I don't even want to see or hear the messages I know I'll get from him when he finds out. I know I told him I was going to stay in the room and wait for Kate and Ana but I needed this. I needed to have some time to myself to get away from all the bullshit. Everything started grating on my nerves, including Alex, and I needed to get out before I did or said something I'd regret.

I feel bad about not telling him I was leaving but I knew he had to work and I've fucked up his life enough with my 'issues.' He has a job to do because he lives here. I'm just on vacation and can't take away from his responsibilities. I love spending time with him but it's not fair of me to disrupt his life and want all of his time. Besides, everyone needs their space. While he may not think he does, I need mine.

We know nothing about each other's history, the important history. Past relationships can mold future ones. The pan to my past relationships has been dropped a few times; there are a lot of dents and cracks in it. There isn't a strong enough patch that will hold it together much longer; the x-rays are evidence enough of that.

His temper really freaked me out, I'll admit. I've never seen him get so angry before. He hides it well, until he's pushed too far. My mouth gets me into trouble a lot, especially when I feel threatened. Comedy is the way I handle stressful situations. OK, it's how I handle most situations. I didn't mean to make him mad; I was just… I don't know, COPING.

I wish I could put all the blame on Ana and Kate but I can't. They have a major role in things though. I know they heard me in the shower talking about how they aren't helping situations by just sitting back and watching. It's true. I wish they would do or say something to back me up and explain things. However, it also pisses me off when someone talks about me without my permission. I guess they're caught between a rock and a hard place.

I'm not easy to live with, be friends with or love. Sometimes I wonder if I am destined to be alone. I don't like being like this but all it takes is one person to completely destroy someone's self-worth. Mother did an amazing job doing that. She really went above and beyond expectations and gets a gold star for that.

You know how in documentaries about killers? Most of them have 'mommy' issues. It's not always the case, but a lot of the time it is. Especially if the mother is a horrible person. Mine was. I'm not a killer, which is a good thing in every sense, but my mother is behind a lot of my fucked up issues. Her and her brother. I'll never claim him as my uncle. Fuck that. He's worse than my mother in all ways. He's truly despicable.

I don't like talking about personal things with many people and I even hide some things from Ana and Kate. I definitely hide things from the people who raised me alongside my dad. Brad doesn't really know everything either but he knows enough.

I could kick myself for venting and letting things slip out while on my rant. I saw the look they shared and I'm sure they are curious about everything I said. I guess the anger and stress is really getting to me and I needed to get away from everyone. Which is why I'm surprised I'm even considering hanging out with the Three Stooges and Kong. To be honest, I don't know why, especially after what happened.

It's true, I've forgiven Kong and the others. For now. I'll deal with them back home. There are only two people, so far, that I will never forgive: my mother and her brother. Even everything James did was forgiven.

If Alex truly has a problem with it, then he and I will deal with it on our own. I don't think he'll be very happy that I'm with the guys because of the incident but, to be honest, he doesn't own me and he can't tell me what I can and can't do. Besides, I already told him that I wanted to drop the whole thing. It's just one more thing to support the fact that we don't know each other like two people would if they had more time to get to spend together, where one of them isn't on vacation and has to return home.

In a way, it's a good thing that he works tonight because I want to go out with the girls and enjoy what I can of this vacation the way we planned to. I can't necessarily do that with Alex hovering over me. Not that I'm going to do anything inappropriate, I'd never do something like that. I respect myself too much and I'd never do that to Alex. I just feel like he doesn't understand some of the things I do and have to hold back. Ana and Kate never had a problem with my antics when we came here. Then again, we never met someone that could potentially be in one of our futures. That was always something that should be at home; it makes more sense that way. Right now, my vacation is my focus. If they want to tag along, I'm OK with that.

I knew I would run into these guys at some point and I'd prefer it to be on my terms. After all, they live in Seattle too. Though it's a big city, I'm pretty sure they would be able to find me. Now that they know I exist. I smile and laugh, thinking it was in my head, but when the four of them turn to look at me I quickly realize that I did it out loud. God I've got to start paying attention to what's going on between my head and my mouth. I roll my eyes and laugh again.

We're quiet for a few minutes and I have to break the silence. "Are you guys working your stiff, controlling and boring jobs or are you off so you can actually enjoy Vegas?" I ask to no one in particular.

All four of them look at each other and then down at me. Kong answers for them. "Nope. We're off until tomorrow." He smiles. "We actually get to enjoy Vegas a little. It's a nice change."

Funnily enough, Kong is the only one comfortable enough to talk to me. Weird. Usually I can get anyone to talk. Well, I might just have to change that, but how? I got it!

Looking up at Scrooge, I bump into him to knock him off step. "So, Scrooge, tell me something. Why are you such a grumpy looking dude?"

He looks down at me, a shocked look on his face and his eyebrows are raised. "I'm not grumpy. Don't listen to Luke. He's full of shit." He looks at Luke who has a grin on his face. "Besides, someone has to be in charge and in control of the situation."

I raise my eyebrows and laugh loudly. "Oh, so I'm a situation now? I can really make it a 'situation.'" I smirk before continuing, "I detect a challenge. I've never turned down a challenge." I pause, before adding, "How do you think I built up a tolerance for alcohol?" I laugh deviously and see Scrooge visibly tense up. Don't tempt me.

Looking at the other two, Larry and Moe, I try to determine which one will be more receptive to my 'offer.' I decide on Moe. I look up at him and smile slyly, looping my arm through his. He looks down at me, a smirk growing on his face. I think he knows something is up.

"Hey Moe!" I say, in the voice of one of the original Stooges. "You seem like the kind of guy that likes to have fun and push the limits. Are you up for a challenge or are you a sourpuss like Scrooge here?" I smile, batting my eyelashes at him, trying to look innocent. I'm pretty good at laying on the charm and getting my way. Just ask Kate. She's always commenting, 'Is there anyone that can resist the Rhi charm?'

There are three to choose from and I'm pretty sure Kong will do it but the other two need to loosen up. They're too stiff and quiet but I can tell they are probably a lot of fun. That's what I'm here for. Fun. This is the last day and night here, and the day started out to be a shit show. I'm done with the drama and boring shit.

He's still looking down at me with a smirk. "Maybe. What's your challenge?"

I hear a slight clearing of someone's throat and look up to see Larry watching Moe trying to warn him and nodding toward Scrooge.

I smile up at Larry and smile devilishly, looping my arm through his. "Oh relax, or would you rather accept the challenge?" I raise my eyebrows, waiting for his response. He doesn't respond so I continue, "Either way, you'll all get your chance. It's just a matter of time." I laugh at the 'oh shit' look on his face. Looking between the two of them, I ask, "So, Moe or Larry, which one is it going to be first?" Good god that sounds like I'm going to fuck them one after the other.

Kong is watching the interaction, concern evident on his face. "Oh relax, Kong, I'm not tied to a gate as a sacrifice like Ann was. You don't have to grab me and climb the Empire State building or fight planes to save me." I roll my eyes, getting a laugh out of everyone, even Scrooge.

"OK, back to more important things. Larry? I'm thinking you get to go first. You didn't answer so I made the executive decision and choose you." I look at Moe, "Be prepared for anything to happen at any time." Larry sighs, resigned to his fate and I laugh.

As we're walking down the Strip, there are street performers everywhere. Some with music playing, some silent, people in costume, random people doing weird shit and of course the showgirls. Larry and I are about to join them.

We've been watched ever since we left the hotel, most likely because of the treasure hunt. I'm sure people are curious where Alex is and who I'm with but the last I heard was they were following me and not who I'm with. If Kate and Ana haven't figured out that I'm not at the hotel, they soon will. All three of them will via social media. This is going to be fun! I can't believe Kong is encouraging this, along with helping me ditch Kate and Ana. They're going to be so pissed but you know what? It'll be totally worth it and they'll get over it.

I wasn't joking when I said I need to do something for my 'public.' They look like they're waiting for something to happen. I'm not sure what to do but I do have options. I giggle to myself, hopefully, and smile while looking from Larry to Moe.

Up ahead, I see someone doing a TikTok video, at least that's what it looks like. They're doing some dance thing and it gives me an idea. I pull Larry aside so no one can hear us. "So, what are your real names?" I ask, out of respect for them. I don't want to seem like a complete asshole.

"I'm Marshall Ryan. Moe over there is Scott Reynolds, Scrooge is Jason Taylor and Kong is Luke Sawyer. We all go by our last names. It's a military thing." He smiles.

I return his smile. "Thank you. I'm Rhi. Rhiann makes me feel like I'm in trouble." I laugh. "So, can you dance?"

He looks at me curiously. He replies cautiously, "Uh, a little I guess? Why?"

"Do you know old school dances? The Roger Rabbit, Running Man, Kid N Play, etc.?" I'm pretty sure I can find someone that's playing music we can dance to. I just don't want to embarrass anyone if he can't dance.

Looking down at me, he answers, "Yeah, I know all those dances. Why?"

I smile and laugh. "We're going to find someone who's doing a TikTok video and crash their party." I laugh at his expression. "Actually, we'll find someone who is willing to let us dance. Are you good with that?"

He laughs, "Sure. Count me in."

Rejoining the other guys, we continue walking until we find someone that has music we can do the moves to. It's a group of guys dancing. They have their camera on and are recording, trying to get the attention of the people passing by. Walking closer, I stand to the side, waiting until I catch their attention.

One guy sees me, smiles and walks over to me. "Hey there, beautiful. Are you here to dance?"

Smiling back at him, I answer, "Yes, but I was hoping to make it kind of a surprise. If that would be possible? My partner and I can stand over to the side to watch and randomly join in. Unless you have any better ideas?"

"What kind of dancing and music are you talking about?" He asks.

I can only imagine what kind of dancing he's thinking we want to do. I chuckle, "Do you have any music we can dance old school hip hop to?"

"Yes, we're recording a promo video. We definitely have music you can do those dances to." He smiles, "You know, we've seen you dancing at the fountain, but can you do any other moves?"

I laugh, "Oh, you'll have to wait and see." I nod my head, indicating to Larry. "I haven't seen my partner dance yet but be prepared and keep your camera rolling. I'll make it worth your time." I wink at him with a smile.

He laughs and shakes his head. "OK. Let's see what you've got."

Stepping back into the crowd to await his cue, I whisper to Larry, "This is going to be so much fun. I hope you're ready!"

We're waiting for our cue, which I have no idea what that is, pretending like we just asked them a random question wanting to know what they're doing. "What are you doing, Rhi?" Kong asks, curiously.

"I just want to see what they're going to do. It's interesting and I like watching street performers. They can be so talented." I reply. "They said they were making some sort of promo video."

The guy I spoke with is trying to get the crowd that has gathered involved. He gives me a sly wink and turns to say something to the other guys in his group. I think it's to explain what the plan is. Hell, I don't even know what the plan is.

They come out as a group and one guy turns on the music and they start calling out dances to see if anyone can do them. I like arms with Larry and give his a squeeze. On cue, the guy asks if anyone knows any old school hip hop moves and I slowly raise my hand. "I don't know them all but I'm a quick learner." I smile. "Can you teach me?" I ask, playing along.

"Well hello there. We can definitely teach you some dance moves." He smiles suggestively. I playfully roll my eyes and he asks, "Is this your dance partner?" I nod and he asks, "Can he dance?"

I look at Larry and laugh, "You know, I have no idea if he can or not. I just met him today. There's only one way to find out!"

They cue the music and we start trying to get the beat, acting like we have no rhythm and they start teaching us. When the crowd starts getting noisy and saying things to encourage us, we pick up the pace. I glance at Larry and nod. We started dancing like we had been partners for years instead of minutes. Of course, we were both a little rusty at first but soon we were breaking out in a sweat. I must say, the looks on the guys' faces makes this whole thing worth every step. Larry can actually move better than I thought he would and the crowd loved it.

The guys in the group were impressed and even let us dance to another song by ourselves and this time we went all out. When we finished we walk over to the guys and I thank them for helping and playing along.

Pulling out a $100 from my pocket, I hand it to them. "Here you go guys. Hopefully, this will help you get a start in your careers." I smile, "I'm sure you'll reach your goals. I'll be watching to see your faces in the entertainment world." I'm not afraid to touch people so I give each of them a hug and Larry and I head back to Moe, Scrooge and Kong.

I wait to leave and watch as people walk up to their bucket, dropping money in as a donation. I can't help but wonder if they would have done it anyway or if it was because I did. It doesn't really matter. What matters is that they are helping complete strangers reach their goals and dreams.

"That was fun!" I exclaim, laughing, and wrap my arms around his waist. "Thank you Larry, for being a good sport. You're not too bad of a dancer either. I knew you had fun in you, you just needed a little encouragement." I smile, "Fun looks good on you. You should do it more often." He smiles and I chuckle. Shaking my head, I stand on my tiptoes, tugging on his shirt, pulling him down so I can kiss him on the cheek.

Kong, Scrooge and Moe are standing still. I would guess they're a little shocked and the show they just got. Well, to be honest, I think Larry is a little shocked himself. Not so much at the dancing but more from my display of affection, especially the kiss on his cheek. His face turned awfully red. I giggle at the sight.

"OK guys let's get going. You know that's going to end up on social media and Kate, Ana and Alex are bound to see it and flip." I roll my eyes, "I don't want to have an altercation out here on the street."

Linking arms with Larry and Moe, we start walking through the crowd once again. I'm getting used to the attention of the treasure hunt. I decided, when I met Stanley, that I would use it to my advantage to see how much positive influence I had to actually make things happen for people. I have enough money to help people myself but I want to encourage people to make their own choices and sacrifices. Besides, what's the point of the treasure hunt if people don't learn from observation?

As we're walking down the street, heading for the Cosmo, all our phones start sounding off with notifications. I guarantee it's social media. I close my eyes waiting for what I know is coming. Yeesh. I'm kind of worried now about Kate, Ana and Alex seeing that but it's too late now. I do have a habit of doing things at the spur of the moment and then have to deal with the consequences afterward. Except this time it was totally worth the anger I'm expecting.

Right on cue, my phone starts singing it's tune of my ringtone for Kate. I silence it and see the guys look at me. Looking up at them I answer, "Nope. Not answering it right now. It'll ruin the moment." Again, my phone goes off with a different ring tone. I laugh, "This time it's Ana. The last one was Kate. Still not answering."

Kong looks a little confused about something and when I ask him what's wrong he continues to look at me and shakes his head. "Nothing. Come on, let's get off the street and go eat. I don't feel like having a confrontation with anyone right at this moment."

I link arms with Larry and Moe again and we continue on.