Shameless (Enemies to Lovers 5)

Chapter 23

EVIE

Taking a cab to work, I stare out the window, not really seeing anything.

While Willow was staying with me, things were going well, but since she moved in with Marcus, my life started to slowly crumble around me. Not that I had much to begin with.

I’ve been saving every cent so I can repay Rhett Daniels. It took much longer than I had hoped it would take, but when I get paid tomorrow, I’ll be able to transfer the full amount he gave me to his bank account. Then I just have to save what I’ve worked out the interest should be and repay him that. I won’t owe anyone anything after that.

The cab stops outside of the restaurant where I work as a waitress. I pay the fee with a heavy heart, wishing I could move closer to work, so I didn’t have to waste money on transport. That will never happen though. The apartments in this part of town are way too costly.

I walk around the back of the building and go in via the staff entrance. I keep my head down, not greeting anyone as I walk to the restroom. Stripping out of my clothes, I fold it all neatly before putting it in my bag. I remove my apron from where it’s hanging against the wall and tie it around my waist.

Yeah, this is what my life has come to. I’m a waitress in a nude restaurant where the uniform is only a black apron and black heels.

I chuckle bitterly as I wonder what Rhett would think if he could see me now. He tried to save me from this life, but in the end, I ran from him and right back into the clutches of poverty.

“At least you’re not selling your body,” my heart whispers.

“Yeah, right. Keep lying to yourself. What you’re doing is no better than being a whore,” my mind sneers.

I’ve let my hair grow, and thankfully it reaches past my nipples. Some of the other girls complained when they saw that I was covering myself, but management likes the idea that my breasts are playing peek-a-boo with their elite clientele.

I place my bag in my locker, then go fetch a notepad and pen. As I scribble on the paper to make sure the pen is working, I push through the massive double doors leading to the restaurant.

The cold air hits me like it always does, and I shiver. The AC is set low to make our nipples hard.

When I get to my section, the girl who was working the shift before me heads into the back. I scan my section, assessing the customers I’ll be serving.

A man catches my eyes, nodding subtly. I walk over to his table, swinging my hips for extra effect. It helps with the tips if you put on a show for them.

“What can I get for you, Sir?” I ask, forcing my voice to come out sweetly.

“Get me a refill,” he barks at me before turning back to his much younger date with a leering smile.

Pig. I note his table number then go look on the computer to see what he’s having to drink before placing his order at the bar.

I’m waiting while the bartender fixes the drink when someone nudges me lightly against the shoulder. Glancing to the side, I see that it’s Kyle, the owner’s son.

“How’s my favorite waitress doing?” he asks, turning on the charm.

“I’m well, thank you. How long are you home for this time?” I ask.

Kyle loves to travel. I only see him when he comes home once in a while. So far he’s been nothing but sweet to me, and he doesn’t ogle my body like every other man in this establishment does.

“Actually, I’m going to be helping out here for a while. My dad is taking my mom on a cruise.”

“Oh, that’s nice.” The bartender sets the tumbler down in front of me. I place it on a tray and lifting it, I say, “Welcome back. I’ll see you around.”

When I start to walk away, Kyle quickly catches up to me.

“Have dinner with me after work?” He grins, and I have to admit, he is attractive. It would also be nice to be wined and dined. I haven’t been on a date in ages.

“I get off at three, Kyle. It’s way past dinner time then,” I tease.

I take another step forward, and this time he lightly touches my elbow.

“Have an early morning breakfast with me then,” he tries again.