Page 34 of Jackpot Joker

In thirty years, I have worked very hard not to squirm under a man’s stare, but I am finding that incredibly difficult to do when it comes to the oldest Caruso brother. I plaster on a fake smile and provide an even faker laugh. “Umm, I think I can make it there on my own. It was nice meeting you.”

I turn around and head to the elevators, refusing to look back at Gio, knowing he’s staring at me and well aware of my destination. I hustle inside as the doors open, and when I turn to scan the card that was waiting for me at the front desk, I can’t help but see his knowing, sinful smirk as the doors close.

Chapter 17

Jasmine

My breath is ragged as I exhale while the elevator descends. If I had thought a phone call with my best friend would have led me straight to hell, then I would have never answered.

The black doors slide open, and the familiar notes pump through the place. I had no idea music could turn someone on, but here I am, my body thrumming with desire. When I exit, I’m greeted by the same woman as the other day. Her blonde hair and ruby lips are a beautiful contrast that mimics her boss’s outfit.

“Welcome back, Miss Baker. Did they provide you with your pass upstairs?”

My hand shakes as I provide her with the card I was given earlier, but she’s kind enough to ignore it and offer me a small smile. “I don’t remember if I introduced myself the other day. I’m Valentina. Will Mr. Caruso be accompanying you again tonight?”

I shake my head. The last thing I need is for Dario to show up and see me here in Inferno after I bit off his head for bringing me here in the first place. “I’m alone.”

Valentina’s smile is soft as she gives me a knowing nod. “While we were able to bypass the application process with your call, we will need you to fill out a few things tonight before you can enter the club again.”

I nod, and she places a tablet on the counter in front of me. “You’ll need to check off each of these tabs. The first one is an overview of the rules and expectations we set here at Inferno. Make sure to read each one carefully, as there are consequences and punishments when rules are broken.”

The word punishment has my stomach flipping, but I give her a nod to continue.

“The next tab is a form stating you are of sound mind and able and willing to provide consent. Then we have a waiver to be filled out stating we are not liable in the instance you were to be injured during a scene you consented to with your partner. Of course, we have monitors positioned around the establishment, so it should never lead to that.”

My throat is dry, and I simply nod again to confirm I’m hearing everything she says.

“Finally, we have an interest form. While these are always subject to change, you filling this out provides us with information so we can best accommodate you.”

“Will other members have access to this form?” I ask, trying to mask my panic.

Valentina shakes her head. “Not at all. This is for the company’s use only. When we receive these forms from our members, we’re able to determine which workshops, theme rooms, and special events might be a good fit. It’s purely marketing.”

Her smile is gentle and warm enough to settle my nerves. She motions behind me. “You can take a seat on that bench while you look everything over. Feel free to take your time. Would you like me to get you something to drink? We have water, or I can place an order for you at the bar.”

I give her a shaky smile. “I think I may need something stronger than water tonight. Could I get a bourbon and Coke?”

“Of course.” She smiles at me again, and I head over to the bench to fill out the forms on the tablet.

I’m thankful for the strong spirit I toss back as I check off the items on the interest form. The knowledge that nobody I would hook up with will see this gives me a little more courage to be honest with my answers. I didn’t realize how much I could possibly enjoy, along with the items that were a giant hell no.

When I finish filling everything out, I walk the tablet and my empty glass back over to Valentina.

“All finished?” I give her a nod, and she sets the tablet aside, gesturing to the satin bracelets in front of her.

“We have a color system here at Inferno to help make intentions aware and keep everyone safe. The other night, you and Mr. Caruso wore black. This indicates that you are exclusive with your partner and nobody else has permission to approach you.” She looks up at me, checking if I’d like for her to continue.

Abso-fucking-lutely. Dario and I are not exclusive.

“And the other colors?” I ask.

Valentina offers me a soft smile. “The silver bracelet states that you are willing to participate in scenes and activities, but that you are the one in a position to make contact. When you wear this band, nobody should approach you, and you are only permitted to approach those with gold bands.”

She picks up the last band, a gold satin that reminds me of the beautiful casino next door. “Gold bands signal that you are accepting of others approaching you. It means you are seeking a physical connection, but that doesn’t lock you into one. You still have control to deny what they are offering. If you select the gold band, you may approach others with gold bands and are very likely to be approached by those with them, as well. Do you have any questions?”

I shake my head as I process everything she says.

“Very well. So if not black, will it be silver or gold for you tonight?”