Page 148 of Fame & Rhythm

We both jump up and head upstairs. I throw on a fitted top and leather pants, something casual enough to pass for a quiet night out, but still decent enough for a club. We can’t exactly walk around town looking like ourselves and expect no one to notice.

I duck into Ella’s room, and she’s halfway through trying on her third outfit.

“C’mon, that one’s fine.”

“I was thinking the black one too,” she says, pulling it down properly before slipping into flats.

We head downstairs together and walk into the living room, where Mum is now curled up with a bowl of popcorn.

“Hey, girls. I was thinking we could have a movie night,” she says, then pauses, taking in our outfits. “Although… I think you might be a bit overdressed for that.”

“We were actually thinking of heading out to see that new slasher film,” Ella says smoothly.

Mum nods. “Sounds good. I’ll get ready and come with you—”

“Actually,” I cut in, forcing a casual smile. “We were hoping for a bit of sister time, if that’s okay?”

She raises a brow, then sighs dramatically. “Of course. I’ll just sit here alone with the dogs and my popcorn… no big deal.”

I grin. “Thanks, Mum.”

“Have fun,” she calls as we grab our coats. “Don’t be home too late. And call me if anyone recognizes you… I’ll have security there straight away.”

“Got it!” Ella calls back.

The second we’re out the door, she turns to me. “I’m driving.”

I laugh. “Perfect. Means I can drink.”

She gives me a look. “Don’t go overboard.”

I roll my eyes. “Relax.”

She doesn’t look convinced, but she doesn’t push it either.

We head into London, the drive taking about an hour and a half, before we find a smaller club just outside the main strip. Ella parks, and we join the line… only to be waved forward by the bouncer.

I glance at her. She shrugs.

“You ladies can head straight in. VIP’s expecting you,” he says into his radio.

Ella lets out a quiet squeal as we’re ushered inside.

The club hits us instantly—loud music, heavy bass, the sharp mix of alcohol and sweat thick in the air. Bodies move everywhere, pressed together, chaotic and uninhibited.

We head upstairs, flashing quick smiles as we’re let into the VIP section.

“Good evening, Miss Slade,” the bouncer says.

Sometimes being who we are has its perks.

“Drink?” Ella shouts over the music.

I nod, already scanning the crowd as we make our way to the bar.

And then I see him.

Short dark hair, broad shoulders, and ink covering his arms. Gauges in his ears.