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asphaltcowgrrlTitle: Hey Bartender
Fandom: Romani Detective Original Fiction/White Pine Original Fiction AU
Pairings: Er, none as they’re all budding relationships at this point
Rating: PG-13 with a touch of R at the end.
Word Count: 4,138
Summary: New to the country, Andrej takes whatever jobs he can find to make ends meet. Even if it’s working as a bartender in a strip club in Vegas.
Author’s Note: Written for the September Twist Challenge at 1_million_words although it was inspired by a bartender AU prompt from the weekend challenge a couple weeks prior. And just to confuse the issue, I didn’t stick with just one of my original fandoms, I tossed two of my favorites together. I mean, how can you resist Andy AND Muprh?
Also: Andrej’s internal monologue might be a bit out of character for him, but I figure if he hasn’t been saddled with this unrequited lust for as long as he has been in cannon, he might be a little looser around the edges. :D
It wasn’t that he hated his job, exactly. It was more along the lines of he’d had grander plans for his life when he’d left home to come to America. Sadly, he hadn’t anticipated it being so difficult to get a job as an immigrant, even as one who spoke English. However, he’d learned that when you’re broke, you take what you’re given and you’re thankful for it. Eventually, he could find a better job, one that didn’t require standing on his feet all night dealing with drunks.
Andrej sighed and picked up another glass. It was quiet so far, too quiet for a Friday night. Business didn’t generally pick up until around seven o’clock, once everyone had had time to get home from work, change, and head out to start their weekend. It got even busier around nine when the shows started. But for it to still be this quiet at nearly eight? That didn’t bode well for the rest of the evening.
“Can I get a beer down here,” a voice drawled.
Looking up, Andrej spotted the most gorgeous man he’d ever seen. Tall, Latino, and southern, everything Andrej had ever wanted in a boyfriend, but hadn’t managed to get. Forcing his sorely neglected libido to remain calm, Andrej nodded and smiled at the newcomer. “Of course. Tap or bottle?”
“Don’t you dare give him anything.”
“I’m sorry,” Andrej stuttered, turning to face his temporary boss, Travis Murphy. “Has he already reached his limit?”
The man who everyone referred to as Murphy shook his head. “Nah,” Travis said, grinning. “But he’s one of our dancers and knows better than to mooch drinks off of us before he’s done his two rotations. Isn’t that right, Zayne?”
“Yeah,” the handsome Latino sighed. “And fuck you, by the way, you half Irish asshole.”
Snorting, Murphy reached under the bar and retrieved a bottle of water. “How about we meet in the middle?”
Frowning, Zayne took the bottle from Murphy. “Can’t say this is anywhere near halfway, but it’ll do for now.” He turned and looked at Andrej. “You’re new.”
“I am,” Andrej said.
“And he’s off limits,” Travis reminded him. “You’re not supposed to hit on the bartenders, remember? Not even the male ones. At least not until they’re fully trained anyway.”
Zayne huffed. “What about you? You gonna hit on him?”
Travis smiled at Andrej. “Not tonight. I’m too busy training him right now.”
“You’ve gotta watch this one,” Zayne told Andrej. “He’s sneaky. Hey, what’s your name anyway?”
Andrej opened his mouth and forgot what he was going to say the moment those green eyes locked on him.
Travis flashed him a confused look. “This is Andrej and he’s going to be our new weekend help if he survives tonight. I like him so be nice, would you?”
“I can be nice,” Zayne said, holding out a hand towards Andrej. “Zayne Reyes,” he said. “I’m the cowboy because what strip show doesn’t have a cowboy, right?”
“I – I suppose,” Andrej agreed.
“He’s strange,” Zayne muttered, leaning in towards Travis.
“He’s also not from around here, Zayne,” Travis muttered back. “So again, be nice.”
Zayne straightened and nodded at the two bartenders. “I’d better go get ready, I think I’m up first tonight. See ya after I’ve done my duty.”
“He is very interesting,” Andrej said when Zayne had gone. Interesting didn’t even begin to cover the attractive, sexy as hell cowboy, but a guy had to start somewhere.
“Zayne is definitely something else,” Murphy agreed.
“Is he –”
“Gay?” Travis shrugged. “Mostly he only flirts with the female customers, but he was definitely interested in you. Can’t say I wouldn’t put it past him to take you home just to try you on.”
Andrej blinked. “I do not know what any of that meant.”
“He’s saying he wouldn’t be surprised if the cowboy took you home and had his way with you, honey.”
“Trish,” Travis warned. “Now is not the time.”
The pretty redhead shook a finger at Travis. “Now Murph, it’s always the time to warn anyone and everyone about the dangers of that jackass. How you doing, Andy? Figuring it all out?”
Nodding, Andrej forced a smile to his face. The nickname she’d given him was odd to his ears and yet fit comfortably. “Yes, I do believe I am.”
“He’s doing better than some of the so-called experienced bartenders I’ve trained over the years,” Travis said. “Here comes Hilary, Trish. Looks like she’s on a mission.”
Looking over her shoulder, Trish spotted the brunette waitress jogging towards them. Resting a hand on the bar, Hilary grinned. “Hottie alert, Murph. That young guy from the adult bookstore down the road just arrived.”
“Damn,” Travis groaned. “I was hoping he wouldn’t show until later.”
“Why,” Andrej asked. “Do you not want him to see you working?” God, this country and its occupants were hard to figure out.
“No, it’s not that,” Travis said, sounding uncertain. “I guess I’m not ready to face him yet.”
“Too bad,” Trish laughed, pointing towards a good looking guy with auburn hair. “He’s headed right for us.”
“He is very handsome,” Andrej said, seeing the man Trish had indicated. “Is he nice, too?”
“You are so not of this earth,” Hilary chuckled. “But yes, considering where he works, he’s an absolute sweetheart.”
Andrej had to wonder what that meant. After all, they were working in a strip club in Las Vegas. Granted, it was a high end strip club on the actual Las Vegas Strip, but still. He was about to ask another question when Travis interrupted his thoughts.
“Ethan,” he said, smiling. “I wasn’t expecting to see you so early in the night. Shift end early?”
“Something like that,” he said, sliding onto a barstool. Noticing Andrej, Ethan smiled. “Hi, I’m Ethan. I work down at Jojo’s Books.”
“Andrej,” he said, holding his hand out for a shake. It was obvious why Travis was so flustered by Ethan’s early appearance. The guy was to die for with that reddish brown hair and eyes to rival those of that cowboy he’d met earlier. He reminded himself that Travis had already laid claim to this good looking stranger and that he’d have to keep his hands – and his eyes – to himself out of respect. But he could still chat the guy up, right? “Can I get you something to drink?”
“I’ve got it, Andrej,” Travis said, setting the drink down in front of Ethan. “Everything okay down at Jojo’s?”
Ethan nodded before taking a long sip of his drink. “Yeah, just super slow tonight. I was surprised to see you were suffering like we are.”
“It is very odd,” Andrej said, looking around the mostly empty club. “I do not have much experience here, but last night was much busier at this same time.”
“Same for us,” Ethan said, giving Andrej an odd look. “You’re not from around here, are you?”
“No,” Trish said, giving Ethan’s shoulder a squeeze. “He’s from another planet.”
Andrej blinked. “I know my English is not perfect, however I am relatively certain I am not from another planet, just another country.”
“She’s yanking your chain,” Ethan chuckled. “Ignore her.” He glanced at Travis. “Can you sneak away for a few?”
Travis glanced at Andrej. “I don’t know, Ethan. He’s new and still in training.”
“And it is empty in here tonight,” Andrej finished. “I can handle myself for a few minutes if you would like to go sit. I will send Hilary if I need help.”
“Are you sure,” Travis asked, giving Andrej a searching look.
“I am,” Andrej nodded. “Go, sit. Talk with your friend.”
“Okay,” Travis said, smiling his thanks. “But Trish, get your ass back over to your spot by the door. The show’s going to start soon.”
She saluted and hustled off to her post. Andrej watched her go and wondered what it was going to be like once Zayne got on stage. A better question would be whether he’d be able to contain himself when the cowboy was in nothing but a speedo. That thought caused a decidedly uncomfortable rise in his body temperature so Andrej forced it out of his mind for the time being. He could revisit later, when he was home and alone in his sad apartment.
“Bartender,” a voice called. “Can I get a bottle of water?”
Andrej snapped out of his lustful daydreams and turned towards the sound of the voice. An extremely pale redhead stood directly across from him, tapping his fingers on the bar top. “Water, you said?”
He nodded. “Please.”
“As you wish,” Andrej said, handing over a dripping bottle of cold water. HIs eyes caught on the peach button up that was barely buttoned. Without trying, he could see the man’s defined chest and upper abdominals. He must shave, Andrej thought, because there should be a definite dusting of copper-gold hair all over that flawless chest.
“Thanks,” he said, chuckling. “Are you the new help?”
Chastising himself for getting caught, Andrej nodded. “I am. Andrej,” he said, holding out his hand.
The redhead looked at his hand for a moment before taking it into his own. “James,” he said. “Just James. That damn cowboy likes to call me Jimmy and it makes me want to punch him.”
“I understand,” Andrej said, making a mental note not to call the ginger anything but his actual name. “Are you part of the –”
“Entertainment?” He nodded. “While Reyes is the obligatory cowboy, I’m the hot cop.”
Hot was right, Andrej thought. Although he was nothing like his dream man – that was Zayne to the last detail – James was undeniably attractive in his own right. But there was one thing he still didn’t understand. “Forgive me, my English isn’t very good and –”
“Your English is better than most of the people that work here, honey,” James laughed. “So don’t apologize.”
He could feel his cheeks heat at the compliment combined with the endearment. “Thank you. But I do not understand. You said ‘obligatory’ and that means required or essential, correct?” James nodded so Andrej pushed forward. “Why are either a cowboy or a cop required for this kind of entertainment?”
James grinned and it lit up Andrej’s entire world. “There are certain roles that people expect strippers – male strippers – to take on. Construction worker, cowboy, firemen, and cop are a few of the traditional ones. Likely because all of those jobs require a certain amount of physical fitness to perform.”
“Ah,” Andrej said. While it made more sense now, it still didn’t make a lot of sense either. “How did you get the job as the hot cop? I can tell Zayne is from the south so the cowboy might be an obvious choice…”
James shrugged. “Not sure, it’s just what the stuck me with. I kinda like it though. I picture myself as some tough as nails narcotics detective cleaning up the streets and keeping our city safe.”
“I bet you would make an excellent officer,” Andrej said, wishing he wasn’t working for once. He’d give anything to be able to sit and watch these two men tear their clothes off from the front row.
“Everything under control over here,” Travis said, letting himself back behind the bar.
“Just dandy, Muprhy,” James said. “I mooched a bottle of water off your new bartender, so put it on my tab. I’ll settle up after my show.”
“You’ve got it, James,” Travis said. When the redhead had disappeared backstage, he turned to Andrej. “Now, if you were going to accept an offer from one of our dancers? He would be the one I’d choose. Nice guy, reliable, and definitely gay. No questions like you get with Reyes.”
Andrej made a mental note of that fact, wondering if James had been flirting with him or if he was naturally that friendly. He didn’t have much time to dwell on it however, because like clockwork, the bar began to fill in expectation of the upcoming shows. He and Murphy found themselves too busy to discuss things any further.
**
Zayne was indeed the first up, much to Andrej’s horror and delight. The glimpses he caught of the cowboy as he performed only enticed him further. Long, lean stretches of caramel skin, firmly toned muscles and that smile… damn, it was enough to send Andrej into meltdown mode. Then, when you added in all the seductive, sensual moves, it was almost too much to bear. And he had to watch him do this again, in another hour? Before the night was over, Andrej might just have to quit.
Grabbing a bottle of water from under the bar, Andrej stepped out into the club, resting his back against the wall for a hot second. He knew he didn’t have much time so he raised the bottle to his lips and gulped down a few quick swallows. The minutes between the dances were always the busiest and Travis would have his hide if he hid out here too long. But he had to do something before he overheated. Finishing off the water, he tossed it into the recycling bucket at the back of the bar and headed back to his spot.
“Sorry,” he muttered to Travis when he arrived back at his post.
Smirking, Murphy shook his head. “Don’t worry about it,” he said. “It happens to the best of us, trust me, I know.” Travis leaned closer and grinned. “That redhead, James, I have to make sure not to watch whenever he’s on stage.”
“You like redheads,” Andrej asked, unsure if that was a weird thing or not.
“Nah, I think I’m just attracted to the whitest men on the planet. No offense.”
“None taken,” Andrej said. He’d always been darker than his countrymen due to his heritage, but it hadn’t ever bothered him. Besides, Travis, with his Hispanic blood, wasn’t exactly pasty himself. “We like what we like, correct?”
“Right,” Travis agreed. “And speaking of which, here comes Zayne. Wouldn’t have pegged you for a cowboy lover, though.”
“So, whatcha think, Andy?”
Zayne parked his impeccable ass on a barstool and grinned. Although Zayne had gotten dressed, he’d left his shirt unbuttoned so that it flapped open anytime he moved. Sweat glistened on his exposed skin, making Andrej’s mouth water. He was the most tempting thing Andrej had seen in weeks. “I think –” he stuttered, thinking that he wanted to lick the sweat off Zayne’s pectorals, but stopping just short of saying as much. “I think it was intriguing.”
“Intriguing?” Zayne grunted and waved a hand at Travis. “Can I have a beer now, Murphy?”
Travis made a face and reached for Zayne’s usual. “It’s against the rules, but you look like you could use a cold one right now.”
“Thanks, man,” Travis said, tipping the bottle up to his lips. “So, what the hell do you mean by ‘intriguing’?” He set the bottle on the bar top. Music started up in the background, signaling the next dancer to the stage.
Shrugging, Andrej mixed a drink for a customer, stalling for time. “I am not sure. Until I started here a few days ago, I had never seen anything like this before. It is all very new to me.”
“Fair enough,” Zayne said, taking a bag of cookies from Travis. It was something that Murphy did for the dancers to keep them from starving between performances. He always had some kind of snack on hand for them – cookies, fruit, whatever happened to tickle his fancy that day. “You like the whole cowboy shtick though? Or should I branch out and find something new?”
Travis stole a cookie from Zayne’s bag and offered it to Andrej. “He’s always looking for an excuse to switch up his routine but management likes his act.”
“I like it,” Andrej said, taking a bite of the cookie. He didn’t know much about American culture having only been in the country for less than a year, but he did know cowboys. “I watched many old westerns as a kid and I always rooted for the cowboys.”
Zayne’s responding chuckle was deep and throaty, making Andrej weak in the knees. He didn’t know what it was about the man, but Andrej was beginning to think he was akin to Kryptonite because Zayne left him powerless.
“Good to know,” Zayne said, rising from his perch. “The women seem to love it, too, so I guess I’m stuck. But as long as you’re happy…” He let his voice trail off, tossing a wink at the two bartenders as he walked away.
“I think he does that shit on purpose,” Travis growled, pouring two margaritas and handing them to Hilary.
“I know he does,” she confirmed. “I dated him long enough to know.”
Andrej’s heart sank at her words. “I guess that solves our earlier conundrum, Travis.”
Hilary looked from Andrej to Travis and back. “What earlier conundrum?”
“Andy was wondering if Zayne was gay or just fucking with us,” Travis said, shrugging as if it was no big deal.
“God only knows for sure,” Hilary said, rolling her eyes. “He’s a hound dog at heart and will screw anything he finds attractive.” She regarded Andrej again and smiled. “Yeah, and you’re damn fine so I wouldn’t be totally surprised.”
“I said the same thing,” Travis said. “Wonder if Zayne’s ever tried to pick up on any of the other dancers? James in particular.”
“Again,” Hilary said, sliding her tray off the bar. “Nothing surprises me when it comes to Zayne and the possibility of sex. If you’re pretty, he’s interested.”
“He does not sound like a very good boyfriend,” Andrej noted.
“No,” Travis said, brushing his hair out of his eyes. “He does not. Ethan on the other hand…”
“Did you and he have a good talk earlier?” Andrej hadn’t wanted to pry but he had been curious when Travis returned to duty with a giant smile on his face. He figured that if Travis brought it up, it was fair game to ask about.
“We did,” Travis said, happily. “We even have a date set for Wednesday night.”
“I am happy for you,” he said, meaning it. Travis was sweet and kind with a feisty streak a mile wide. From the beginning, he knew there’d never be anything between them, but still he expected that he and Travis could become friends. “I hope that it turns into many more dates.”
“From your lips,” Travis said, directing his gaze to a middle aged blonde at the counter. “To god’s ears.”
**
If Andrej had been entranced by Zayne’s performance, he was enthralled by the redhead’s. James didn’t have the sheer sex appeal that Zayne oozed, but he sure knew how to move his body. True to his word, Travis had moved to the far end of the bar, facing away from the stage when James’ portion of the performance started. Chuckling to himself, Andrej worked his end of the bar and stole glances every chance he got.
“He’s my favorite,” an older woman said, smirking. “Always had a thing for the redheads. Looks like you do, too.”
“What?” Embarrassed, Andrej fiddled with her drink. “No, you misunderstand I –”
She held up a hand. “I get it. I might be old, but I’m the last to judge. Enjoy those young men’s bodies for me would you?”
His customer picked up her drink and wandered off, eyes fixed on James’ nearly naked body. Sometime in the next ten seconds he’d lose his pants and Andrej would get a firsthand idea of everything James was packing.
“I need a new job,” he muttered.
“What,” Travis laughed. “You tired of me already?”
“No,” Andrej said, hands gripping the edge of the bar, having caught an eyeful of everything the good lord had blessed the redhead with. “I am overwhelmed.”
“Yeah, these guys can do that to you,” Travis agreed. “Good news is, two more and then there’s an hour break. We can recover during that hour.”
God help him, but he was going to need more than an hour to recover from two rounds of these men.
**
“Last one’s out, Murph,” Trish said, slapping her hand on the bar.
“Thanks, red,” he called to her. “You can get on out if you’d like. Andy and I have the cleanup handled.”
“You agree with him, honey? Because I can work a mean mop.”
“What she doesn’t tell you is that she’ll work that mean mop upside your head,” Zayne teased. He sat on the same stool he’d been on earlier, taunting Andrej as much fully dressed as he had in nothing but his skivvies.
“You would know, cowboy,” James joked, sitting on the stool next to Zayne.
“Okay,” Trish said, putting her hands on her hips. “Now I have to stay if only for Andy’s safety.”
“And what the hell is that supposed to mean,” Zayne asked. He leaned an elbow against the bar and glared at the bouncer.
“It means that I expected the ginger to be hanging around, scoping out all that Andy had to offer, but not you.”
“I can’t sit and talk to our new bartender?” Shifting, Zayne folded his arms across his chest and pouted. “Why does Jimmy get to stay and not me?”
“Oh, you can, Zayne,” Hilary said, handing her tray to Travis so he could stow it behind the bar. “But considering the way you’ve been watching him all night, we’re thinking you’re after something more than getting to know him.”
“I am going to take these glasses into the back,” Andrej said, desperate to flee the conversation. He lifted the rubber container and headed towards the kitchen area where they washed all the dishes and linens.
“Not so fast, Andy” Travis said, placing both hands on the damp counter before him. “These two need to apologize to you. They are incapable of letting someone get comfortable here before they come at them with guns blazing. I swear, if I lose Andy because of you assholes, I’m shooting someone.”
“Don’t shoot anyone, Murph” Ethan said, bellying up to the bar. “I know you’re closed for the night but your bouncer let me in before she locked the door.”
“It’s fine,” Travis said, obviously happy to see Ethan return. “But these two idiots are on my last nerve. Andy you want to smack one or both of them for harassing you?”
Truthfully, he’d enjoyed every minute of their harassment. However, he could tell by the look on Travis’ face that Murphy both knew this and yet, didn’t want Andrej to let on either. Well, he could play this game, too, he supposed. “No, I will not smack either of them, although an apology might be nice.”
The cowboy looked at the redhead; the redhead gave a subtle nod of agreement.
“What if we meet you halfway and take you for a drink to make up for all the shit we gave you tonight,” Zayne asked.
“Right,” James added. “Just so you know there aren’t any hard feelings.”
Andrej looked at Travis for approval. “Is this okay?”
He nodded. “There technically isn’t anything against us dating the dancers as long as we don’t flaunt it while we’re working. I was hoping they’d let me get you trained before they fought over you.”
He turned back to the two smoking hot strippers. “Okay. Where do you want to meet?”
Zayne glanced at his watch before naming a bar not far from the club. Andrej agreed to meet them in an hour, as soon as they’d gotten the club closed. His anxiousness must’ve been obvious because Travis kicked him out ten minutes later, sending him to his doom long before he was due.
**
“You know,” Zayne said, stretching an arm across Andrej’s bare chest, “I never got that second drink you promised me, Jimmy.”
“Shut it, cowboy,” James groaned. He snuggled up against Andrej’s side, his arm lying parallel to Zayne’s. “I’ve got a full bottle of tequila in the cupboard if you’ve got a hankering.”
“Oh, I’ve got a hankerin’,” Zayne said. “But it ain’t got anything to do with tequila. At least,” he said, nipping at Andrej’s bare skin, “not yet it doesn’t.”
Whimpering, Andrej leaned into Zayne’s nibbles. He wasn’t sure what he’d expected the night to bring once he’d met the two dancers at the predetermined bar, but getting fucked by them both – twice – hadn’t been in the plan. Well, it had been in his plan, but he wouldn’t have ever guessed that it had been in their plan. But hey, he was adaptable, right?
Maybe he didn’t need to find another job after all. This one seemed to come with all the right fringe benefits in all the right places.
Fandom: Romani Detective Original Fiction/White Pine Original Fiction AU
Pairings: Er, none as they’re all budding relationships at this point
Rating: PG-13 with a touch of R at the end.
Word Count: 4,138
Summary: New to the country, Andrej takes whatever jobs he can find to make ends meet. Even if it’s working as a bartender in a strip club in Vegas.
Author’s Note: Written for the September Twist Challenge at 1_million_words although it was inspired by a bartender AU prompt from the weekend challenge a couple weeks prior. And just to confuse the issue, I didn’t stick with just one of my original fandoms, I tossed two of my favorites together. I mean, how can you resist Andy AND Muprh?
Also: Andrej’s internal monologue might be a bit out of character for him, but I figure if he hasn’t been saddled with this unrequited lust for as long as he has been in cannon, he might be a little looser around the edges. :D
It wasn’t that he hated his job, exactly. It was more along the lines of he’d had grander plans for his life when he’d left home to come to America. Sadly, he hadn’t anticipated it being so difficult to get a job as an immigrant, even as one who spoke English. However, he’d learned that when you’re broke, you take what you’re given and you’re thankful for it. Eventually, he could find a better job, one that didn’t require standing on his feet all night dealing with drunks.
Andrej sighed and picked up another glass. It was quiet so far, too quiet for a Friday night. Business didn’t generally pick up until around seven o’clock, once everyone had had time to get home from work, change, and head out to start their weekend. It got even busier around nine when the shows started. But for it to still be this quiet at nearly eight? That didn’t bode well for the rest of the evening.
“Can I get a beer down here,” a voice drawled.
Looking up, Andrej spotted the most gorgeous man he’d ever seen. Tall, Latino, and southern, everything Andrej had ever wanted in a boyfriend, but hadn’t managed to get. Forcing his sorely neglected libido to remain calm, Andrej nodded and smiled at the newcomer. “Of course. Tap or bottle?”
“Don’t you dare give him anything.”
“I’m sorry,” Andrej stuttered, turning to face his temporary boss, Travis Murphy. “Has he already reached his limit?”
The man who everyone referred to as Murphy shook his head. “Nah,” Travis said, grinning. “But he’s one of our dancers and knows better than to mooch drinks off of us before he’s done his two rotations. Isn’t that right, Zayne?”
“Yeah,” the handsome Latino sighed. “And fuck you, by the way, you half Irish asshole.”
Snorting, Murphy reached under the bar and retrieved a bottle of water. “How about we meet in the middle?”
Frowning, Zayne took the bottle from Murphy. “Can’t say this is anywhere near halfway, but it’ll do for now.” He turned and looked at Andrej. “You’re new.”
“I am,” Andrej said.
“And he’s off limits,” Travis reminded him. “You’re not supposed to hit on the bartenders, remember? Not even the male ones. At least not until they’re fully trained anyway.”
Zayne huffed. “What about you? You gonna hit on him?”
Travis smiled at Andrej. “Not tonight. I’m too busy training him right now.”
“You’ve gotta watch this one,” Zayne told Andrej. “He’s sneaky. Hey, what’s your name anyway?”
Andrej opened his mouth and forgot what he was going to say the moment those green eyes locked on him.
Travis flashed him a confused look. “This is Andrej and he’s going to be our new weekend help if he survives tonight. I like him so be nice, would you?”
“I can be nice,” Zayne said, holding out a hand towards Andrej. “Zayne Reyes,” he said. “I’m the cowboy because what strip show doesn’t have a cowboy, right?”
“I – I suppose,” Andrej agreed.
“He’s strange,” Zayne muttered, leaning in towards Travis.
“He’s also not from around here, Zayne,” Travis muttered back. “So again, be nice.”
Zayne straightened and nodded at the two bartenders. “I’d better go get ready, I think I’m up first tonight. See ya after I’ve done my duty.”
“He is very interesting,” Andrej said when Zayne had gone. Interesting didn’t even begin to cover the attractive, sexy as hell cowboy, but a guy had to start somewhere.
“Zayne is definitely something else,” Murphy agreed.
“Is he –”
“Gay?” Travis shrugged. “Mostly he only flirts with the female customers, but he was definitely interested in you. Can’t say I wouldn’t put it past him to take you home just to try you on.”
Andrej blinked. “I do not know what any of that meant.”
“He’s saying he wouldn’t be surprised if the cowboy took you home and had his way with you, honey.”
“Trish,” Travis warned. “Now is not the time.”
The pretty redhead shook a finger at Travis. “Now Murph, it’s always the time to warn anyone and everyone about the dangers of that jackass. How you doing, Andy? Figuring it all out?”
Nodding, Andrej forced a smile to his face. The nickname she’d given him was odd to his ears and yet fit comfortably. “Yes, I do believe I am.”
“He’s doing better than some of the so-called experienced bartenders I’ve trained over the years,” Travis said. “Here comes Hilary, Trish. Looks like she’s on a mission.”
Looking over her shoulder, Trish spotted the brunette waitress jogging towards them. Resting a hand on the bar, Hilary grinned. “Hottie alert, Murph. That young guy from the adult bookstore down the road just arrived.”
“Damn,” Travis groaned. “I was hoping he wouldn’t show until later.”
“Why,” Andrej asked. “Do you not want him to see you working?” God, this country and its occupants were hard to figure out.
“No, it’s not that,” Travis said, sounding uncertain. “I guess I’m not ready to face him yet.”
“Too bad,” Trish laughed, pointing towards a good looking guy with auburn hair. “He’s headed right for us.”
“He is very handsome,” Andrej said, seeing the man Trish had indicated. “Is he nice, too?”
“You are so not of this earth,” Hilary chuckled. “But yes, considering where he works, he’s an absolute sweetheart.”
Andrej had to wonder what that meant. After all, they were working in a strip club in Las Vegas. Granted, it was a high end strip club on the actual Las Vegas Strip, but still. He was about to ask another question when Travis interrupted his thoughts.
“Ethan,” he said, smiling. “I wasn’t expecting to see you so early in the night. Shift end early?”
“Something like that,” he said, sliding onto a barstool. Noticing Andrej, Ethan smiled. “Hi, I’m Ethan. I work down at Jojo’s Books.”
“Andrej,” he said, holding his hand out for a shake. It was obvious why Travis was so flustered by Ethan’s early appearance. The guy was to die for with that reddish brown hair and eyes to rival those of that cowboy he’d met earlier. He reminded himself that Travis had already laid claim to this good looking stranger and that he’d have to keep his hands – and his eyes – to himself out of respect. But he could still chat the guy up, right? “Can I get you something to drink?”
“I’ve got it, Andrej,” Travis said, setting the drink down in front of Ethan. “Everything okay down at Jojo’s?”
Ethan nodded before taking a long sip of his drink. “Yeah, just super slow tonight. I was surprised to see you were suffering like we are.”
“It is very odd,” Andrej said, looking around the mostly empty club. “I do not have much experience here, but last night was much busier at this same time.”
“Same for us,” Ethan said, giving Andrej an odd look. “You’re not from around here, are you?”
“No,” Trish said, giving Ethan’s shoulder a squeeze. “He’s from another planet.”
Andrej blinked. “I know my English is not perfect, however I am relatively certain I am not from another planet, just another country.”
“She’s yanking your chain,” Ethan chuckled. “Ignore her.” He glanced at Travis. “Can you sneak away for a few?”
Travis glanced at Andrej. “I don’t know, Ethan. He’s new and still in training.”
“And it is empty in here tonight,” Andrej finished. “I can handle myself for a few minutes if you would like to go sit. I will send Hilary if I need help.”
“Are you sure,” Travis asked, giving Andrej a searching look.
“I am,” Andrej nodded. “Go, sit. Talk with your friend.”
“Okay,” Travis said, smiling his thanks. “But Trish, get your ass back over to your spot by the door. The show’s going to start soon.”
She saluted and hustled off to her post. Andrej watched her go and wondered what it was going to be like once Zayne got on stage. A better question would be whether he’d be able to contain himself when the cowboy was in nothing but a speedo. That thought caused a decidedly uncomfortable rise in his body temperature so Andrej forced it out of his mind for the time being. He could revisit later, when he was home and alone in his sad apartment.
“Bartender,” a voice called. “Can I get a bottle of water?”
Andrej snapped out of his lustful daydreams and turned towards the sound of the voice. An extremely pale redhead stood directly across from him, tapping his fingers on the bar top. “Water, you said?”
He nodded. “Please.”
“As you wish,” Andrej said, handing over a dripping bottle of cold water. HIs eyes caught on the peach button up that was barely buttoned. Without trying, he could see the man’s defined chest and upper abdominals. He must shave, Andrej thought, because there should be a definite dusting of copper-gold hair all over that flawless chest.
“Thanks,” he said, chuckling. “Are you the new help?”
Chastising himself for getting caught, Andrej nodded. “I am. Andrej,” he said, holding out his hand.
The redhead looked at his hand for a moment before taking it into his own. “James,” he said. “Just James. That damn cowboy likes to call me Jimmy and it makes me want to punch him.”
“I understand,” Andrej said, making a mental note not to call the ginger anything but his actual name. “Are you part of the –”
“Entertainment?” He nodded. “While Reyes is the obligatory cowboy, I’m the hot cop.”
Hot was right, Andrej thought. Although he was nothing like his dream man – that was Zayne to the last detail – James was undeniably attractive in his own right. But there was one thing he still didn’t understand. “Forgive me, my English isn’t very good and –”
“Your English is better than most of the people that work here, honey,” James laughed. “So don’t apologize.”
He could feel his cheeks heat at the compliment combined with the endearment. “Thank you. But I do not understand. You said ‘obligatory’ and that means required or essential, correct?” James nodded so Andrej pushed forward. “Why are either a cowboy or a cop required for this kind of entertainment?”
James grinned and it lit up Andrej’s entire world. “There are certain roles that people expect strippers – male strippers – to take on. Construction worker, cowboy, firemen, and cop are a few of the traditional ones. Likely because all of those jobs require a certain amount of physical fitness to perform.”
“Ah,” Andrej said. While it made more sense now, it still didn’t make a lot of sense either. “How did you get the job as the hot cop? I can tell Zayne is from the south so the cowboy might be an obvious choice…”
James shrugged. “Not sure, it’s just what the stuck me with. I kinda like it though. I picture myself as some tough as nails narcotics detective cleaning up the streets and keeping our city safe.”
“I bet you would make an excellent officer,” Andrej said, wishing he wasn’t working for once. He’d give anything to be able to sit and watch these two men tear their clothes off from the front row.
“Everything under control over here,” Travis said, letting himself back behind the bar.
“Just dandy, Muprhy,” James said. “I mooched a bottle of water off your new bartender, so put it on my tab. I’ll settle up after my show.”
“You’ve got it, James,” Travis said. When the redhead had disappeared backstage, he turned to Andrej. “Now, if you were going to accept an offer from one of our dancers? He would be the one I’d choose. Nice guy, reliable, and definitely gay. No questions like you get with Reyes.”
Andrej made a mental note of that fact, wondering if James had been flirting with him or if he was naturally that friendly. He didn’t have much time to dwell on it however, because like clockwork, the bar began to fill in expectation of the upcoming shows. He and Murphy found themselves too busy to discuss things any further.
**
Zayne was indeed the first up, much to Andrej’s horror and delight. The glimpses he caught of the cowboy as he performed only enticed him further. Long, lean stretches of caramel skin, firmly toned muscles and that smile… damn, it was enough to send Andrej into meltdown mode. Then, when you added in all the seductive, sensual moves, it was almost too much to bear. And he had to watch him do this again, in another hour? Before the night was over, Andrej might just have to quit.
Grabbing a bottle of water from under the bar, Andrej stepped out into the club, resting his back against the wall for a hot second. He knew he didn’t have much time so he raised the bottle to his lips and gulped down a few quick swallows. The minutes between the dances were always the busiest and Travis would have his hide if he hid out here too long. But he had to do something before he overheated. Finishing off the water, he tossed it into the recycling bucket at the back of the bar and headed back to his spot.
“Sorry,” he muttered to Travis when he arrived back at his post.
Smirking, Murphy shook his head. “Don’t worry about it,” he said. “It happens to the best of us, trust me, I know.” Travis leaned closer and grinned. “That redhead, James, I have to make sure not to watch whenever he’s on stage.”
“You like redheads,” Andrej asked, unsure if that was a weird thing or not.
“Nah, I think I’m just attracted to the whitest men on the planet. No offense.”
“None taken,” Andrej said. He’d always been darker than his countrymen due to his heritage, but it hadn’t ever bothered him. Besides, Travis, with his Hispanic blood, wasn’t exactly pasty himself. “We like what we like, correct?”
“Right,” Travis agreed. “And speaking of which, here comes Zayne. Wouldn’t have pegged you for a cowboy lover, though.”
“So, whatcha think, Andy?”
Zayne parked his impeccable ass on a barstool and grinned. Although Zayne had gotten dressed, he’d left his shirt unbuttoned so that it flapped open anytime he moved. Sweat glistened on his exposed skin, making Andrej’s mouth water. He was the most tempting thing Andrej had seen in weeks. “I think –” he stuttered, thinking that he wanted to lick the sweat off Zayne’s pectorals, but stopping just short of saying as much. “I think it was intriguing.”
“Intriguing?” Zayne grunted and waved a hand at Travis. “Can I have a beer now, Murphy?”
Travis made a face and reached for Zayne’s usual. “It’s against the rules, but you look like you could use a cold one right now.”
“Thanks, man,” Travis said, tipping the bottle up to his lips. “So, what the hell do you mean by ‘intriguing’?” He set the bottle on the bar top. Music started up in the background, signaling the next dancer to the stage.
Shrugging, Andrej mixed a drink for a customer, stalling for time. “I am not sure. Until I started here a few days ago, I had never seen anything like this before. It is all very new to me.”
“Fair enough,” Zayne said, taking a bag of cookies from Travis. It was something that Murphy did for the dancers to keep them from starving between performances. He always had some kind of snack on hand for them – cookies, fruit, whatever happened to tickle his fancy that day. “You like the whole cowboy shtick though? Or should I branch out and find something new?”
Travis stole a cookie from Zayne’s bag and offered it to Andrej. “He’s always looking for an excuse to switch up his routine but management likes his act.”
“I like it,” Andrej said, taking a bite of the cookie. He didn’t know much about American culture having only been in the country for less than a year, but he did know cowboys. “I watched many old westerns as a kid and I always rooted for the cowboys.”
Zayne’s responding chuckle was deep and throaty, making Andrej weak in the knees. He didn’t know what it was about the man, but Andrej was beginning to think he was akin to Kryptonite because Zayne left him powerless.
“Good to know,” Zayne said, rising from his perch. “The women seem to love it, too, so I guess I’m stuck. But as long as you’re happy…” He let his voice trail off, tossing a wink at the two bartenders as he walked away.
“I think he does that shit on purpose,” Travis growled, pouring two margaritas and handing them to Hilary.
“I know he does,” she confirmed. “I dated him long enough to know.”
Andrej’s heart sank at her words. “I guess that solves our earlier conundrum, Travis.”
Hilary looked from Andrej to Travis and back. “What earlier conundrum?”
“Andy was wondering if Zayne was gay or just fucking with us,” Travis said, shrugging as if it was no big deal.
“God only knows for sure,” Hilary said, rolling her eyes. “He’s a hound dog at heart and will screw anything he finds attractive.” She regarded Andrej again and smiled. “Yeah, and you’re damn fine so I wouldn’t be totally surprised.”
“I said the same thing,” Travis said. “Wonder if Zayne’s ever tried to pick up on any of the other dancers? James in particular.”
“Again,” Hilary said, sliding her tray off the bar. “Nothing surprises me when it comes to Zayne and the possibility of sex. If you’re pretty, he’s interested.”
“He does not sound like a very good boyfriend,” Andrej noted.
“No,” Travis said, brushing his hair out of his eyes. “He does not. Ethan on the other hand…”
“Did you and he have a good talk earlier?” Andrej hadn’t wanted to pry but he had been curious when Travis returned to duty with a giant smile on his face. He figured that if Travis brought it up, it was fair game to ask about.
“We did,” Travis said, happily. “We even have a date set for Wednesday night.”
“I am happy for you,” he said, meaning it. Travis was sweet and kind with a feisty streak a mile wide. From the beginning, he knew there’d never be anything between them, but still he expected that he and Travis could become friends. “I hope that it turns into many more dates.”
“From your lips,” Travis said, directing his gaze to a middle aged blonde at the counter. “To god’s ears.”
**
If Andrej had been entranced by Zayne’s performance, he was enthralled by the redhead’s. James didn’t have the sheer sex appeal that Zayne oozed, but he sure knew how to move his body. True to his word, Travis had moved to the far end of the bar, facing away from the stage when James’ portion of the performance started. Chuckling to himself, Andrej worked his end of the bar and stole glances every chance he got.
“He’s my favorite,” an older woman said, smirking. “Always had a thing for the redheads. Looks like you do, too.”
“What?” Embarrassed, Andrej fiddled with her drink. “No, you misunderstand I –”
She held up a hand. “I get it. I might be old, but I’m the last to judge. Enjoy those young men’s bodies for me would you?”
His customer picked up her drink and wandered off, eyes fixed on James’ nearly naked body. Sometime in the next ten seconds he’d lose his pants and Andrej would get a firsthand idea of everything James was packing.
“I need a new job,” he muttered.
“What,” Travis laughed. “You tired of me already?”
“No,” Andrej said, hands gripping the edge of the bar, having caught an eyeful of everything the good lord had blessed the redhead with. “I am overwhelmed.”
“Yeah, these guys can do that to you,” Travis agreed. “Good news is, two more and then there’s an hour break. We can recover during that hour.”
God help him, but he was going to need more than an hour to recover from two rounds of these men.
**
“Last one’s out, Murph,” Trish said, slapping her hand on the bar.
“Thanks, red,” he called to her. “You can get on out if you’d like. Andy and I have the cleanup handled.”
“You agree with him, honey? Because I can work a mean mop.”
“What she doesn’t tell you is that she’ll work that mean mop upside your head,” Zayne teased. He sat on the same stool he’d been on earlier, taunting Andrej as much fully dressed as he had in nothing but his skivvies.
“You would know, cowboy,” James joked, sitting on the stool next to Zayne.
“Okay,” Trish said, putting her hands on her hips. “Now I have to stay if only for Andy’s safety.”
“And what the hell is that supposed to mean,” Zayne asked. He leaned an elbow against the bar and glared at the bouncer.
“It means that I expected the ginger to be hanging around, scoping out all that Andy had to offer, but not you.”
“I can’t sit and talk to our new bartender?” Shifting, Zayne folded his arms across his chest and pouted. “Why does Jimmy get to stay and not me?”
“Oh, you can, Zayne,” Hilary said, handing her tray to Travis so he could stow it behind the bar. “But considering the way you’ve been watching him all night, we’re thinking you’re after something more than getting to know him.”
“I am going to take these glasses into the back,” Andrej said, desperate to flee the conversation. He lifted the rubber container and headed towards the kitchen area where they washed all the dishes and linens.
“Not so fast, Andy” Travis said, placing both hands on the damp counter before him. “These two need to apologize to you. They are incapable of letting someone get comfortable here before they come at them with guns blazing. I swear, if I lose Andy because of you assholes, I’m shooting someone.”
“Don’t shoot anyone, Murph” Ethan said, bellying up to the bar. “I know you’re closed for the night but your bouncer let me in before she locked the door.”
“It’s fine,” Travis said, obviously happy to see Ethan return. “But these two idiots are on my last nerve. Andy you want to smack one or both of them for harassing you?”
Truthfully, he’d enjoyed every minute of their harassment. However, he could tell by the look on Travis’ face that Murphy both knew this and yet, didn’t want Andrej to let on either. Well, he could play this game, too, he supposed. “No, I will not smack either of them, although an apology might be nice.”
The cowboy looked at the redhead; the redhead gave a subtle nod of agreement.
“What if we meet you halfway and take you for a drink to make up for all the shit we gave you tonight,” Zayne asked.
“Right,” James added. “Just so you know there aren’t any hard feelings.”
Andrej looked at Travis for approval. “Is this okay?”
He nodded. “There technically isn’t anything against us dating the dancers as long as we don’t flaunt it while we’re working. I was hoping they’d let me get you trained before they fought over you.”
He turned back to the two smoking hot strippers. “Okay. Where do you want to meet?”
Zayne glanced at his watch before naming a bar not far from the club. Andrej agreed to meet them in an hour, as soon as they’d gotten the club closed. His anxiousness must’ve been obvious because Travis kicked him out ten minutes later, sending him to his doom long before he was due.
**
“You know,” Zayne said, stretching an arm across Andrej’s bare chest, “I never got that second drink you promised me, Jimmy.”
“Shut it, cowboy,” James groaned. He snuggled up against Andrej’s side, his arm lying parallel to Zayne’s. “I’ve got a full bottle of tequila in the cupboard if you’ve got a hankering.”
“Oh, I’ve got a hankerin’,” Zayne said. “But it ain’t got anything to do with tequila. At least,” he said, nipping at Andrej’s bare skin, “not yet it doesn’t.”
Whimpering, Andrej leaned into Zayne’s nibbles. He wasn’t sure what he’d expected the night to bring once he’d met the two dancers at the predetermined bar, but getting fucked by them both – twice – hadn’t been in the plan. Well, it had been in his plan, but he wouldn’t have ever guessed that it had been in their plan. But hey, he was adaptable, right?
Maybe he didn’t need to find another job after all. This one seemed to come with all the right fringe benefits in all the right places.
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Date: 2017-09-13 12:10 am (UTC)Nice mash up of Romani and White Pine. I think you can do it again at some point in the future.
Loved it, btw.
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Date: 2017-09-13 12:25 am (UTC)Thanks! I keep thinking about dragging Travis and Ethan into town and have them run into Andy and Zayne at one point, but I haven't come up with a good enough reason for Travis the recluse to leave his little cabin yet. It'd definitely be fun to try this again.
Thank you, always makes me happy to hear. :)
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Date: 2017-09-13 01:28 am (UTC)Ethan has to attend some kind of meeting/convention and Travis tags along to find out what all the hoopla about Vegas is about, if that make sense for an idea.
Your stories make me happy, so we're even. :)
no subject
Date: 2017-09-13 03:18 am (UTC)Aw, yay! I kind of lost my readership a few years back so I'm happy to have found someplace to share again. :D