Chapter 26: What Happens in Vegas...
As Bella drove her mom's car past the iconic "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign, she couldn't help but be captivated by the dazzling spectacle unfolding before her. The Vegas strip stretched out in an electrifying display of colors and lights, transforming the desert into something unlike anything Bella had ever seen. Neon signs blazed in every direction, casting vibrant hues over the bustling throngs of tourists and gamblers.
The sheer scale of the buildings was almost overwhelming. Tall mega hotels loomed on both sides of the strip, each adorned with their own unique brand of excess and charm, making Bella feel as if she had stepped into a fantastical realm. It seemed more like an elaborate amusement park for adults than a city street. As she maneuvered through the traffic, the dazzling lights reflected off the polished hood of the car. Bella's eyes were drawn to the towering Luxor Hotel on her left, a giant black pyramid crowned with a bright beam of light shooting straight up into the night sky.
Seeing the Luxor with its replica Sphinx in front, Bella knew she had to go inside and see if the interior was as majestic as the exterior promised. She dreamed of one day visiting Egypt to see the ancient pyramids, but until then, this place could hold her over. She turned to her mom, grinning. "You were right, this place is crazy."
Renée grinned, seeing the exuberant smile on her daughter's face. "You haven't seen anything yet. The Luxor is just the beginning. Let's drive through the strip once so you can take in the sights, then we'll head to our hotel. I read that a new casino, the Aria, is opening in a few months. It's supposed to be the grandest one yet. I guess we'll have to check that one out on our next visit."
Bella's attention was seized away from her mom by the sight of the New York-New York Hotel and Casino. The lit-up mini Statue of Liberty stood proudly, a beacon of liberty in this desert wonderland. Bella couldn't help but chuckle, marveling at the absurdity and charm of it all. She wondered if the casinos took everything seriously or if everyone saw it as a grand joke and just went along for the ride.
Behind the statue, she noticed a roller coaster weaving through a replica of the New York skyline, its tracks looping and diving around the faux skyscrapers. The thought of riding it filled her with a childlike excitement; it was a stark contrast to the sophisticated allure of the other casinos they had driven by so far.
As she drove further, the strip continued to unveil its wonders. The Venetian caught her eye next, with its replica of Venice's Grand Canal, complete with gondolas drifting lazily along the water. The facade of the building looked to be a stunning recreation of Italian architecture, with intricate details that made it seem as though a piece of Europe had been transported to the desert. Bella's thoughts wandered to the day she would visit Italy, imagining herself gliding through the real canals of Venice, savoring the rich history and culture of the city.
The Bellagio was next, and Bella was immediately captivated by the water show in progress. The dancing fountains, choreographed to music, sent jets of water soaring and twirling in perfect harmony, drawing a large crowd of mesmerized spectators. They didn't have far to travel before The Mirage took over the strip's awestruck crowd, its front dominated by a massive volcano that erupted just as they drove by. Fire and water shot into the air, the dramatic display eliciting gasps and cheers from the gathered onlookers. The intensity of the spectacle, with flames illuminating the night and water cascading down, was both thrilling and enchanting.
As they approached their hotel, Bella's attention was seized by the replica Eiffel Tower standing proudly in front of the Paris Hotel and Casino. It rose high above the surrounding buildings like a beacon, and Bella marveled at the intricacy of the structure, wondering how closely it mimicked the real Eiffel Tower. Either way, it fit perfectly into the surreal landscape of Las Vegas. The blend of elegance and whimsy added to the city's allure, making her even more eager to explore all that it had to offer.
As they pulled up to the hotel entrance, a valet in a neatly pressed uniform opened her door with a polite nod. Bella stepped out, her senses overwhelmed by the cacophony of sights and sounds around her. As she breathed deeply, the wonderful scent of blood was everywhere, mingling with the scents of expensive perfumes and the aroma of alcohol.
Bella turned to her mom, her eyes wide with wonder. "Okay, I think I'm hooked. It's like we stepped into another world," she said, her voice filled with awe.
Her mom smiled, a knowing glint in her eye. "Wait until you see inside some of these places. Las Vegas certainly knows how to dazzle the eye. Inside the casinos, it's like time has stopped. You won't find a single clock, and while gambling, you can't tell if it's day or night. Luckily, I've never had the gambling bug. You have fun, just play responsibly." She chuckled, "I doubt you'll have much to worry about though; you've always been more responsible than me."
As they started to walk towards the entrance, Renée looked up at the giant tower, a wistful expression crossing her face. The replica Eiffel Tower loomed above them, its iron latticework glowing softly in the evening light, casting intricate shadows on the ground.
"I've always liked to stay at the Paris Hotel," Renée commented, her voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "It feels like it's my way of visiting the real Paris."
Bella glanced at her mom, noticing the longing in her smile. The way her eyes sparkled with a distant dream made Bella proclaim, "Well, someday we will have to visit the real Paris together. I plan to eventually travel throughout Asia and Europe. Maybe at the end of my travels, we could meet up and see the 'City of Lights' together?"
Renée's head snapped back to Bella, her eyes widening with excitement. "Oh, Bella, that sounds fantastic! I've always wanted to go, but… well, the timing was just never right."
Bella knew that "timing" was her mom's way of saying she had become a mother while still a teenager herself. But now that she was an adult, there was nothing stopping her mom from seeing the world. She smiled, wrapping her arm lightly around her mom's shoulders and giving her a gentle squeeze. "Let's check in, then will you show me some of the games? I've never gambled before, and I'm looking forward to giving it a try. When I was in college, there was a weekly poker game in my dorm that I watched sometimes, but I never had the courage to actually play in it. I'd love to give poker a shot now. What's your favorite game?"
"I've never been good at any of the card games, but I do like the slot machines. They are all so colorful and intricate with so many different themes. I wouldn't be surprised if we see a vampire-centric machine. We'll have to play that one for sure if we see it," Renée said, smiling as a doorman in a uniform opened the main door for them to enter.
As they stepped inside, a cacophony of sounds washed over them—Bella could already hear the cheerful chimes of slot machines, the excited chatter of gamblers, and the triumphant shouts from lucky winners.
The lobby was grand, and Bella glanced around, taking in the opulence. The front desk was bustling with activity, a line of eager tourists waiting to check in. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, their light reflecting off the polished marble floors. The décor was a blend of modern elegance and Parisian charm, making Bella feel as though she had stepped into a luxurious European palace.
Carrying their two suitcases, Bella followed Renée to the reception desk, where Renée chatted amiably with the receptionist as they checked in. Bella couldn't help but notice the warm, friendly atmosphere all around her. Once they had their room keys, Renée turned to Bella with a playful glint in her eye. "Ready for your best birthday yet?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement.
Bella laughed. "I sure am. It will definitely be better than my 20th, that's for sure." She winked at her mom. There was no way she would be ending this birthday running naked through the forest. First off, they were in the desert. She nodded to herself, grinning at her brilliant observation.
As they left the reception area and stepped into the casino proper on their way to the elevators to drop off their bags, Bella couldn't believe what she was seeing. The noises and the lights were almost overwhelming her senses as she took it all in. The casino seemed to stretch on endlessly, filled with men and women of all ages, engrossed in gambling. The air was thick with excitement and the unmistakable scent of adrenaline, mingled with the sweet aromas of various perfumes and colognes. But most of all, it was the overwhelming scent of blood that pleased Bella. She had fed last night, so she would be fine, but she breathed in deeply regardless, savoring the aroma along with her ability to remain in complete control of her body.
People were playing the slots, the cheerful chimes and flashing lights of the machines creating a symphony of sound and color. Groups gathered around card tables, the tension and anticipation palpable as chips were pushed forward and cards were dealt. Bella marveled at the sheer variety of games and the enthusiasm of the players, each lost in their own world trying to fulfill all their hopes and dreams.
As Bella and her mom strolled past row after row of slot machines, her mom eagerly pointed out the more impressive ones, each themed after popular TV shows, movies, sports teams, and just about anything that had captured the public's imagination. "Look at that one, Bella. I used to love that show," her mom exclaimed, gesturing towards a Dukes of Hazzard slot machine. They paused to watch a woman playing it, and Bella couldn't help but notice how interactive it was, with a touch screen, dynamic graphics, and even some catchy music accompanying the gameplay.
Renée leaned in closer to Bella and whispered, "I used to have such a big crush on Bo when I was growing up."
Bella chuckled, shaking her head slightly. She had to admit, the two guys on the marquee were hot.
In her mind, Bella had always thought of slot machines as metal boxes similar to old-style cash registers, where you pulled a lever and watched the reels spin, hoping to get three apples in a row and quarters would empty out onto the ground if you won. She must have gotten that idea from an old-time movie or something, because what she was seeing now looked far more sophisticated. The machines were all electronic with vibrant TV screens, displaying intricate graphics and interactive elements.
Unable to resist, Bella stopped to insert a dollar into a machine featuring the Scooby Doo gang. Her mom paused with her, laughing as Bella started pressing buttons, seemingly solving a crime on the screen. The colorful graphics showed the gang in various spooky scenarios, and the upbeat theme music played in the background, adding to the fun.
Bella was engrossed, following the prompts and pressing buttons to help the gang unmask the villain. Every now and then, small rows of pictures would scroll by, showing the gang and potential ghosts. She was having fun, but after completing all the steps, she didn't see any quarters spilling out of the machine. Instead, the screen displayed a cheerful "Better luck next time!" message, making her realize she had lost.
"I guess that's the usual outcome," Bella remarked, studying the machine as it reverted to the flashy cartoon intro that had initially drawn her in. She looked at the machine, then at the endless rows of other slot machines with a discerning eye. While her mom might be a fan of them, Bella had her doubts. She felt she would find more enjoyment in card games, where there was some element of skill involved for the players. The slot machines seemed to rely entirely on random chance, making each play feel like a gamble in the purest sense. She turned to her mom and smiled as they continued walking toward the elevators.
When they got up to their room on the 10th floor, Bella was pleasantly surprised by how luxurious it was. She had never stayed in such an upscale hotel room before. The suite was elegantly decorated, with plush furnishings and tasteful art on the walls. The living area featured a large window offering a stunning view of the glittering Vegas skyline and a good view of the Eiffel Tower off to their right.
There was only one bedroom, which her mom took, as really, why would Bella need it? Her mom did call her in to feel the comforter, and when she did, Bella had to admit it was the smoothest and softest one she had ever felt. She couldn't help but smile, knowing that if she were still human and was able to sleep, she would probably look into getting one of those for her own bedroom. She checked out the bathroom and found it quite fancy as well, with a marble countertop and a spacious, glass-enclosed shower.
After they had settled in and admired the room, they headed back down to the casino to really try their luck at gambling. The excitement of the casino floor enveloped them once again, and this time they went to some of the table games, where the dealers were more than happy to explain how to play.
Later that evening, they eagerly anticipated the highlight of the night. They had already bought tickets in advance to see the Cirque du Soleil Beatles show at the Mirage. Bella could hardly wait, as she loved the Beatles, and the thought of witnessing the acrobatics up close intrigued her now that she wasn't a grade-A klutz. She wondered if she might be able to mimic some of their moves.
Two days later, Bella and her mom found themselves fully immersed in the whirlwind that is Las Vegas. The city had lived up to its reputation, providing them with an endless array of shows and gambling opportunities. They had seen dazzling performances, each more spectacular than the last, interspersed with visits to the casino floors where they tried their luck at various games.
At night, while her mom slept, Bella explored the other casinos, each with its own unique theme and gimmick. The opulence of Caesars Palace with its Roman grandeur, the tropical oasis of The Mirage, and the enchanting canals of The Venetian, complete with gondolas and singing gondoliers that navigated both inside the casino and outside in the plaza—they all offered something different and exciting. She even witnessed a young couple getting married on a pirate ship at Treasure Island, adding to the surreal charm of the city. Bella marveled at how every casino seemed to be in perpetual motion. Though she had been to New York City, she had to believe that it was Vegas that truly deserved the moniker 'the city that never sleeps.'
Bella had tried her hand at numerous card games and had quickly become familiar with their rules. Poker had emerged as her favorite, much to her satisfaction. She even participated in a mini-tournament with a $100 buy-in, though she finished well out of the money. She didn't mind; the low-stakes games were just her speed, providing fun without the pressure of worrying about winning or losing. At the moment, she was up a couple hundred bucks.
While she played, she occasionally wondered if her advanced mind could count cards like she had seen depicted in movies. But she knew that to try that, she would have to be much more familiar with the rules and mathematical percentages. Really, she was just here to have fun with her mom. Their laughter and shared excitement were what mattered most.
Renée emerged from the bathroom, fully ready for the evening, and looked at her daughter with a smile. Tonight was a very special night, and she had planned what she hoped would be a fun and different type of outing for Bella. It was Bella's birthday today, and Renée could hardly believe how quickly time had flown by. It felt like just yesterday when Bella was a little baby, and now her baby was 22 years old and, to her constant amazement, a supernatural creature of the night. She had to shake her head at how Bella's life had unfolded.
As they made their way to the car, Renée hopped into the driver's seat. Bella had inquired several times on the way to the car where they were going tonight, but all Renée did was smile and shrug her shoulders. She wanted to surprise her, but she knew her daughter was clever enough to probably guess their destination. She had been hyping up this place since before they left Phoenix, after all.
The drive through the city was filled with the vibrant energy they had come to expect from their stay over the past few nights. The streets were bustling with people, the sidewalks crowded with tourists and locals alike, all soaking up the unique atmosphere of the city. Neon lights flashed and twinkled, advertising shows, restaurants, and casinos, creating a kaleidoscope of colors against the night sky.
It didn't take long before Renée drove up to a large blinking sign that read "Dukes" in bold red letters. The neon sign depicted a cowgirl lassoing a cowboy. The bright colors and animated lights made the sign impossible to miss. Bella's eyes widened with recognition and excitement as she realized where they were headed.
"I had a feeling this is where you were taking me. Hopefully, it's as good as you've been hyping it up to be," Bella said, laughing. Renée glanced at Bella as she was about to turn into the parking area, grinning as she saw Bella wiggle her eyebrows.
"Oh, it's everything I've said and more. They even offer a free dance if it's your birthday, so when you see a guy you like and want him to do unspeakable things to you, just point him out and I'll make it happen." Hearing this, Bella's grin grew even wider.
The parking lot was packed with cars, a testament to the venue's popularity. The night air was filled with the distant hum of music and laughter, adding to the electric atmosphere.
Renée maneuvered the car into a spot and turned off the engine, thinking about all the enjoyable memories she had coming to this place with her friends. She hoped Bella had a good time and that this outing would open her up to the idea of new possibilities. Even as an immortal being, Renée didn't know what her daughter was waiting for.
After Renée paid their entrance fee, they walked inside and were escorted to a table with a prime view of the various stages where dancers showcased their talents. The dim lighting, punctuated by colorful spotlights, created an exciting and seductive atmosphere. Everywhere Renée looked, she saw buff guys wearing nothing but speedos. They were omnipresent, from giving lucky women lap dances, to dancing on stage, to even walking around delivering drinks. The place was a whirlwind of activity, and the energy was electric.
Renée couldn't help but admire the scene. The performers moved with confidence and skill, their muscles rippling under the lights as they entertained the crowd. The cheers and laughter of the audience added to the vibrant ambiance. She glanced over at Bella and had to laugh, seeing the look of hunger on her daughter's face as she watched the men dance.
Renée couldn't understand what Bella's hesitation was when it came to guys. If she looked like her daughter, she was sure she'd have a different hot young stud rocking her world each and every night. The thought brought a mischievous smile to her face. However, a much darker thought intruded into her mind, and she quickly looked at her daughter closer. Was that lust she was seeing… yes, it was most likely lust and not a different type of hunger... yeah, nothing to be concerned about.
The night was in full swing, and Renée and Bella were having the time of their lives. The atmosphere was electric, with music pulsing through the speakers to the cheers and screams of the raucous female audience, creating a vibrant backdrop to the male eye candy strutting their stuff on the stages. Renée was already on her second drink, a fruity concoction that complemented the lively mood of the evening. Bella had a drink in front of her too, but of course, had not touched it. Every now and then, Renée picked up Bella's drink and sipped some to make it look like they were both drinking. She and Bella had worked out several strategies for when they went out together to eat.
"See anyone you want a lap dance from?" Renée asked, leaning towards Bella with a playful smile on her face. "You can get more than one, you know. It's not a one-and-done type of place, trust me. Pick a guy, sweetie."
Renée watched as Bella started scanning the room, her eyes flicking over the various dancers and performers. The room was a sensory overload of flashing lights, moving bodies, and vibrant energy. Finally, Bella pointed to a man who was just coming down off the main stage. Renée looked him over to see what type of guy Bella was into, and boy, he was a looker. He had short blonde hair, chiseled abs that went right down to his speedo, and an easy confidence that made him stand out even in the crowded room.
Winking at Bella, Renée made her way over to the man, determined to procure Bella her birthday dance. As she approached, she saw that he had just extricated himself from some other admirers and was heading backstage. She quickly called out for him to wait. "Excuse me!" she said, her voice cutting through the noise.
The man turned and smiled at her, his teeth white and perfect under the stage lights. Up close, he was even more striking, his muscles glistening with a light sheen of sweat from his performance. Renée watched him as he looked her up and down approvingly, his gaze lingering for a moment on her body before finally lifting to meet her eyes. She smiled, feeling a rush of satisfaction at the approval in his eyes—she still had it.
"Well, hello there," he drawled, his southern accent thick and charming. "Now what can I do for you?"
Oh god, she loved a man with a southern accent. She grinned at the good ole southern boy. "Well, a great many things, I'm sure, but sadly for me, I'm asking for my daughter. It's her birthday today, and I was hoping you could give her a dance she would never forget. That's her sitting over there." She pointed towards Bella, who was watching them intently from their table. "She hasn't had much luck with men recently, so I was hoping you could really make her birthday special."
The man followed her gaze to Bella, and his eyes widened in surprise. "That's your daughter?" he asked, his smirk growing. "Are you sure you two aren't sisters? You're too young to have an adult daughter."
Renée knew he was working her, but she didn't mind. The dancers laying the charm on thick was part of the appeal of this place. With a reassuring smile, he continued, "So you say she hasn't had the best luck recently?" He shook his head as if to say that wouldn't do. "Have no fear; leave her in my hands, and I'll give her an experience she'll never forget." He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "I've made women come many a time without even touching them. Your girl won't know what hit her."
Renée smiled. "Perfect." As she led the man to a waiting Bella, she was eager to see the man's moves. If he could really do what he claimed, Renée might just have to get a dance from him herself.
Bella sat at the table, her thoughts bubbling with anticipation at what might happen. She watched as her mom spoke to the dancer, of course, hearing every word exchanged between them. The dim lights of the club did nothing to hide even the smallest detail from her enhanced vision. The sight of so many scantily clad men dancing so provocatively had really done something to her.
She could hear the sincerity in the dancer's voice as he made his bold declaration to her mom. Bella knew she would have been blushing hard if she were still human. Oh god, did she hope he was good on his word and could make her climax. She felt a surge of heat rush through her body just thinking about it. After two years without any contact from any man, the prospect of this experience was somehow making her feel flushed.
As the dancer approached, Bella's eyes met his, and she saw a glint of mischief in his gaze. He moved with a confident, almost predatory grace, his muscles rippling under the club's lights. The crowd seemed to part slightly, giving him a clear path to her.
The man was even hotter up close, his abs flexing as he bent towards her and whispered in her ear, "You ready, baby, to feel everything I have to offer? Do you have any objections if I touch you during the dance?" Bella's eyes widened in anticipation as she quickly shook her head, making the man smile.
The man started dancing in front of her, moving slowly at first. The dim lights cast a warm glow on his toned body, accentuating every muscle as he moved. Bella had never seen a man dance like this so close to her, and the way his muscles rippled and flexed with each motion was making her hornier and hornier. His movements were fluid and seductive, drawing her in with each thrust.
He soon straddled the chair she was sitting in, hovering just above her without putting any weight on her. She wished he would, as his pelvis worked against her, creating an intoxicating rhythm. The heat between them was palpable, and Bella could feel her own body responding to his every move. Oh god, she looked down and could clearly see the outline of his erection through his speedo. It was large and long, straining against the fabric. How did that thing not break through?
The dancer leaned in closer, his breath warm against her neck as he whispered, "You like what you see?" His voice was low and teasing, sending shivers down her spine.
Bella nodded, unable to form words, her breath coming in shallow gasps. The man's hands moved over her body, his touch light and teasing. His fingers traced the contours of her shoulders and arms, sending sparks of pleasure through her skin. He moved with such confidence and skill, every motion designed to heighten her arousal.
Bella watched, enthralled, as the man leaned in and asked, "You ready for me to kick this up a notch?" She could only nod, her breath catching in her throat. The man lifted his hand to help Bella stand up, and then he sat down on the chair. With a smooth, practiced motion, he guided Bella to straddle his legs, settling her down on his lap. As Bella did, she felt the firm pressure of his erection pressing into her center, sending a jolt of pleasure through her.
He started flexing his body, lifting them both up and down in a rhythmic motion that made Bella moan softly. She had never felt anything like this before, the sensation of his muscles moving beneath her and the intimate contact between them was overwhelming. The music throbbed around them, providing a sensual backdrop to their movements.
The dancer kept up his gyrations, his hands steadying her hips as he pulled her against him. She could feel her breasts pressing against his bare chest, the heat of his body was intoxicating. The friction was driving her wild, making her nipples harden as her arousal built. His breath was hot against her ear as he whispered, "You feel incredible."
Bella was finding it hard to think straight as her body moved against the man's. Lost in the heat of the moment, she leaned in and gave a long, leisurely lick up his neck. 'Oh shit,' she thought, clamping her mouth shut tightly. This was so not the time for anything like that. But her momentary unease at where her thoughts had gone was quickly replaced with pure pleasure as his pelvis started grinding into her with more intensity. She wrapped her arms around him and began moving her own pelvis against his, finding a rhythm that sent electric shocks of pleasure through her.
The friction between them was exquisite, driving her wild with desire. Bella's moans grew more pronounced and frequent, escaping her lips as she lost herself in ecstasy. The tightness in her stomach began to build, a familiar sensation that she knew would lead to her release. Each thrust, each grind, brought her closer to the edge, and she could feel the heat pooling within her.
The man didn't stop, his movements becoming even more precise and deliberate. He seemed to know exactly what she needed, his hips rolling against hers in a way that made her head spin. As the tightness in her stomach reached its peak, Bella's moans turned into gasps. The world around her seemed to blur, the lights and sounds fading as the only thing that mattered was the overwhelming pleasure building inside her.
When she climaxed, it hit her like a tidal wave, the feeling of heat expanding throughout her body, leaving her breathless and amazed. Her whole body trembled with the intensity of it, as she clung to the man. Oh god, she had needed that. It was a million times better than anything she had ever done with her hand.
Bella was still blissed out, her body wrapped around the man's, as she flexed her center a few final times against him. She was lost in the lingering waves of pleasure when her mom's hurried voice cut through the haze. "Thank you. Thank you. That was perfect, you can go now." Bella was startled by her mom's words. She had been so into the dance she had forgotten she was there. Why was she putting a damper on her high? She liked the position she was in, sitting on this hunky guy after the best orgasm of her life.
"Mom?" Bella said questioningly, but her mom seemed to be quite insistent and tried lifting her up off the man. Bella moved to help her; otherwise, her mom wouldn't have been able to budge her. After she was standing, her mom wrapped her jacket around her for some reason and quickly told the man to leave.
"What are you doing?" Bella couldn't understand her mom's actions; they was so unlike her.
Renée's face was a mix of concern and urgency, her eyes darting around the room to ensure they had no unwanted attention before leaning in and whispering, "Something's wrong, Bella. When you climaxed, your hands started to glow. At first, it was mild, but then towards the end, they got really bright and it even started to move up your arms. Thankfully, it looks like no one else noticed."
Bella was shocked. She lifted her mom's jacket from around her and peeked down at her hands. Jeez, she could detect a faint glow. Renée peeked down too. "It was much brighter earlier, Bella. Try to calm down; maybe it will go away."
"That's never happened before. I have no idea what that signifies. I can't imagine any purpose for having glowing hands. Thanks for alerting me... even if your timing sucked." Bella looked down, and after a few deep breaths, she could no longer detect any glow coming from her hands.
"They look normal again," Bella observed, studying her hands in the dim light of the club. She thought for a moment before reluctantly looking at her mom. "I think I'm going to take off. While I wouldn't mind another dance, I think I have to go try and figure this one out first. It might be some sort of ability with my bubble that I've never encountered before, although I wasn't using my bubble at all when this happened, so I have no idea what it was. You stay here and have a good time." she handed her mom back her jacket. "I had a great time, Mom. Thanks for taking me. I'll meet you back at the hotel later, okay?"
Her mom nodded. "I understand. You do what you have to. I'll... just stay here a little while longer."
Bella chuckled softly, giving her mom a reassuring wink. "I'm sure you will. Enjoy yourself."
As Bella was walking out of the main room, she caught sight of a really handsome dancer with long black hair heading in her direction. She had noticed her mom eyeing him when he was on stage earlier. The lights of the club highlighted the contours of his muscular frame, making him stand out even more against the backdrop of the flashing neon.
"Excuse me," Bella called out, her voice carrying over the thumping music. The man stopped in front of her, a charming smile spreading across his face, probably hoping she wanted a dance from him.
"I was hoping you could show my mom a really good time. I need to go, but you look like just the type of man she goes for." Bella pointed to her mom before fishing out her wallet from her back pocket, pulling out $300, and slipping it into his hand. The bills slid smoothly between his fingers, and he glanced down at the money, then back up at her with a smile and a nod of understanding.
"You got it, miss. Trust me, I'll show your mom a very good time." His voice was warm and inviting, his eyes sparkling with certainty.
Bella smiled, nodding in thanks. As she exited the club, the music and squeals of excitement gradually dimmed. The cool air felt refreshing against her skin. She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the events of the past hour slip away from her mind, trying to regain her composure.
Bella took several more deep breaths to further calm down. What a time for something new and unusual to kick in. She really needed to understand this new ability, as glowing body parts was a big red flag that screamed 'other.' She had to get a handle on it quickly if she wanted to ensure her anonymity.
Thinking it over, she concluded it would be best to see if she could trigger the glowing again, so she decided to run outside of Vegas into the desert for privacy. She walked around the strip club, scanning the area to make sure no one was watching. Seeing no one, she took off at a fast pace.
The cityscape quickly gave way to open terrain as Bella sprinted, the bright neon lights of Las Vegas becoming a distant glow behind her. The air was cooler out here, with a slight breeze that carried the faint scent of desert flora. The ground beneath her feet was a mix of sand and rocks, crunching softly with each step. The vast expanse of the desert stretched out before her, a serene and empty canvas under the star-studded sky.
She slowed down as she reached a secluded spot, far enough from the city to avoid any curious eyes. The bright lights of Vegas were now a distant shimmer on the horizon, casting a faint glow that contrasted sharply with the dark, quiet desert. The only sounds were the gentle rustle of the wind and the distant howl of a coyote.
Bella looked at her hands closely. What had caused them to glow and why would they even do that? She thought about what she was feeling, and it obviously had to be related to her climaxing, but it seemed unlikely that it would only happen during that occurrence. She had certainly gotten off many times in the past two years and never once had her hands glowed.
She started analyzing what she had been feeling and did remember feeling hot. God, had that been an amazing feeling, but thinking about it beyond the obvious orgasm, that heated sensation had never come over her before. She started trying to see if she could replicate that feeling. She found a large rock and sat on it, the rough surface grounding her as she began to focus inward. The cool night air contrasted sharply with the warmth she was trying to summon, making her more aware of every sensation.
The stars above were brilliant, a sprawling canvas of twinkling lights that seemed to pulse in rhythm with her deep breaths. Not wanting any distractions, Bella closed her eyes, trying to recreate the intense emotions and physical sensations she had felt in the strip club. She concentrated on the heat she remembered, that incredible surge of energy that had coursed through her body as that toe-curling orgasm had consumed her.
As always when she was trying to learn something new, it was a slow process. Hours passed, marked only by the gradual movement of the stars overhead and the deepening chill of the desert night. Bella tried different techniques, focusing on her breathing, and the flow of energy through her body.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of trial and error, she began to feel a familiar warmth building inside her. It started as a faint glow deep within her core. She tried to grab onto it and smiled as she felt it gradually spreading outward, filling her limbs with a tingling heat which, while pleasant, thankfully had nothing to do with her having an orgasm. She concentrated harder, trying to direct the sensation toward her hands, willing them to glow.
Soon she saw a slight luminescence to her hands, the faint glow surely enhanced by the blackness of the night. Encouraged, she concentrated even harder, willing the light to grow brighter. Slowly, as she focused, the glow intensified. It was working. She smiled in awe as her hands began to emit a steady, luminous light. It was difficult to maintain, requiring her to think and push with her body in an unfamiliar way.
She lifted her hands and studied them closely, the glow casting eerie shadows across her face. It looked like her hands were glowing in the dark, the light dancing on her skin like liquid moonlight. But why would they do this? She still believed she was a vampire, but glowing hands certainly weren't in any vampire books or movies she had seen. The night around her was quiet, the desert a vast expanse of stillness, making the glow seem even more surreal.
Bella tried making the glow even brighter, concentrating with all her might. The light intensified, her hands becoming like radiant beacons in the dark. She really pushed, channeling all her energy into them. The brightness grew almost blinding, illuminating the desert around her with a stark, white light. Then, all of a sudden, a loud pop like an explosion emanated from her left hand. Bella flinched, and to her astonishment, she saw what looked like fire erupt from it.
Retracting her hand in shock, Bella feared she had hurt herself. She quickly looked at her hand, but it appeared fine, unscathed despite the explosion. She sat there, amazed at what had just transpired. This was very different from any of her other abilities, and she could not think of any connection it had with her bubble, which until now had been the sole source of her outer body powers.
Determined to understand it, she tried again, concentrating on her right hand this time. She felt the familiar warmth building and soon enough, another small explosion erupted. It was fascinating, the way her body seemed to generate this energy. She wondered what would happen if she tried it on a larger scale. Bella focused hard, holding her hands close together. The warmth intensified, and she felt the energy build until, with a burst of concentration, a larger explosion emanated from both hands.
Each time, she checked her skin, and it seemed unmarred, untouched by the intense heat and eventual flame. As the hours passed, the night around her was illuminated by the brief flashes, casting stark shadows across the desert landscape. A thought occurred to Bella: what if she could make her entire body glow? She focused, trying to channel the energy through her entire being. Slowly, she felt the warmth spread from her core to her limbs, and soon her whole body was aglow.
This was freaky. Why would vampires glow like this? Then again, why would they sparkle? She was sure she was a vampire, but what if she was wrong? The thought gnawed at her. What if she was some freaky half-alien hybrid and vampires were just a made-up story? That thought made her sad. She had been hoping to one day run into others like her, to feel a sense of belonging among those who shared her nature.
The glow from her body cast an eerie light around her, making the desert seem even more surreal. The sand and rocks glinted under her radiance, the shadows shifting with her every movement. The glow was beautiful yet alien, a stark reminder of how different she was. Bella sat down on a nearby boulder, the glow slowly fading as she tried to process all these new thoughts swirling in her head.
Bella's mind raced with possibilities. Could this new ability be controlled? Could it be harnessed for something useful? She needed answers, but the vast, empty desert seemed to hold them just out of reach.
She wished her mom could be here to witness her becoming a human night light. She grinned, finding it almost as freaky as the sparkles in the sun. While the glowing was certainly unusual and seemed like a neat party trick, it was this explosive power that held her interest. She wondered if she could create an even bigger explosion. None of the smaller explosions seemed to have affected her, so she stood up and focused hard on making an explosion like she had done with her hands but on a larger scale.
The desert night was still and quiet, the stars above the only witnesses to her experiments. The cool breeze brushed against her skin, a stark contrast to the heat she was about to summon. Bella stood in the middle of the desert, feeling the ground solid beneath her feet and the expanse of the night surrounding her. She focused all that she had learned in the past hours, pushing more and more energy into as small a space as she could.
Her body began to glow, the light intensifying with each passing moment. The rocks and sand around her reflected the increasing brightness, creating an otherworldly aura. She felt the energy building within her, a powerful force growing stronger and more concentrated. The sensation was both exhilarating and overwhelming, a mixture of power and anticipation that made her mind race.
Bella's form became almost blinding as the glow intensified. She felt the energy pulsing, a vibrant force resonating within the very fabric of her being. The air around her vibrated with the raw power she was channeling. She didn't stop. Closing her eyes, she dropped to her knees, pushing harder, the intensity building until she could no longer contain it.
With one final push, Bella opened her crimson eyes, and for the second time in her life, the world around her exploded in fire and mayhem.
THE END?
I guess that's it. Story's over. Bella blew up...
What? You wanted more?
Okay, okay. I guess she can survive this explosion too. Tune in next time for the conclusion of Bella's Crazy Birthday: The Sequel.
Reviews or comments are appreciated. I really enjoy reading your feedback. If you have any questions or can't remember something, please post them, and I'll happily answer anything as long as it doesn't delve into future events in the story. Sometimes I can give subtle hints, but I don't like giving outright spoilers. If you do ask a question, I'll usually respond through a private message very quickly.