JASONS POV
I snap out the trance like state the blond had put me in and look down at my watch.
"show time" I slink away from the post i was leaning giving one last look at the blond bartender.
she was also watching her keen blue eyes secretly watching me I send a quick wink in her direction
and make my way further into the crowd that has gathered.
I stride towards the metal stairs guarded by two bog standard security guards.
Approaching the entrance I found the security personnel standing guard their imposing figures obstructing my path.
I take a deep breath readying myself for the encounter ahead.
With a polite and composed demeanor I calmly approached the security personnel my voice carrying a tinge of firmness.
"Excuse me gentlemen" I began, keeping my tone respectful. "I need you both to move aside....I'm here to see the owner and I don't plan on asking twice.... Make way... or you'll regret it."
I shudder at the sound of my own voice god I sound like Alfred.
The security guards exchanged glances with an amused chuckle.
Their amused faces mirrored that they wont be moving anytime soon letting light on an already known obstacle standing in my way.
Undeterred I continued with a touch of impatience creeping into my voice.
"I know the owner's every move...... and Im not here for pleasantries..... Step aside or suffer the consequences. I'm going in... one way or another. "I confided my tone taut as I stand taller.
their refusal persisted a flicker of frustration sparks within me.
I had come prepared for this battle of wills.
The politeness I had mustered started to erode, revealing the anger that simmered beneath the
"Do I look like I have time for games? Do you even have a clue who I am? You really wanna see what happens if you keep me waiting? Tick-tock.... three seconds and counting.... You better open that door before I do it myself" I snarl my voice laced with a sharp edge.
The guards now on the receiving end of my mounting hostility stood their ground.
They were unmoved by my outburst their stoic expressions revealing their unwavering dedication to their duty.
Realizing that my anger was not yielding the desired results I took a moment to collect myself.
I couldn't let my emotions cloud my judgment.
Adopting a more calculated approach I decided to shift tactics attempting to reason with them once more.
"Look, I understand that you're just doing your job, but I'm not leaving until I've had a word with the owner. It's in your best interest to let me through. Trust me." I raise an eyebrow and cock my head waiting for the response.
The security guards remained resolute, their stance unwavering amused looks on their faces as they look at each other chuckling.
"what you gonna do about it tough guy" one security guard says laughing In my face as an act of disrespect.
"fine I warned you" I step away shaking my head.
In one fluid motion I delivered a quick and precise strike to the larynx a pressure point of the first guard.
they crumple to the ground unconscious and unharmed.
before I could fully grasp the situation the 2nd guard rushes towards me.
driven by aggression and a desire to avenge their comrade.
remaining focused I swiftly assed the situation and determine the most effective course of action.
I deflect the approaching fist and redirect the guards momentum to utilize their own energy against them.
I swiftly sidestep anther approaching strike and take advantage of their vulnerability.
executing a controlled maneuver I harshly guide the 2nd guard off balance.
using the new found fast momentum I redirect them into a wall smashing their face to the cold brick.
"I told you" I taunt the now crumpled security guards that I have moved to sit slumped against the metal stairs as I pass them.
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LAURENS POV
" Lauren the boss wants you in his office" Aaron shouts at me from over the bar.
"know why?" I question wiping my alcohol covered hands on the dish cloth that hangs over my shoulder.
"no clue but he sounds moody so get going" Aaron warns me using his hands to usher me along before disappearing back into the crowd.
I walk towards the stairs and see that both the body guards are slumped on the floor.
my instincts kick in making me become nervous yet ready to attack
I step over the guards and make my way up to the boss's office my curiosity and unease flooding my sense more.
the reason behind my summons remains unknown but the air carries a sense of urgency and importance.
as I approached the door I notice a hushed conversation emanating within.
pausing for a moment to collect myself.
only to pause and listen
"What do you want?" my boss asked, his tone dripping with superiority.
"You don't know who I am, do you?" the second person replied.
"I do. You're the Red Hood, right? Heard about your little escapades in Gotham. Not impressed," my boss retorted dismissively.
A chuckle echoed in the room, unsettling the arrogant figure. "What's so funny?" he demanded.
"Do you listen to rumors, or do you know the truth? Because if you know the truth, you'd be less cocky," the mysterious figure replied, his laughter continuing.
My boss hesitates, trying to regain his composure. "I know enough," he stammered, attempting to sound confident again, but faltering as he realized the weight of the other's reputation.
"Why are you here?" my boss feebly ask the stranger again.
The mysterious figure laughes a deep laugh" Oh, you know, just here for the ambiance. Thought I'd enjoy the delightful company and breathtaking décor."
The laughter stopped abruptly as the mysterious figure issued a warning, "Don't bother. No one's coming."
I gently knock on the glass door and push it open softly.
I open it to reveal a scene that both intrigued and unsettles me.
the sight of my boss behind his customary ornate desk sent a shiver down my spine.
The man I'd known to exude an air of calculated cunning and sly confidence now appeared unnerved and slightly terrified.
His typically slender frame seemed more gaunt, almost exaggerated in its frailty.
The sleek facade of his demeanor, once oozing with a sense of self-assuredness, had crumbled.
His usually sharp eyes, perpetually assessing and calculating, now darted around the room with a skittish unease.
Seated in his chair, he seemed smaller somehow, as if trying to retract into the leather upholstery for safety.
The controlled poise he usually held was replaced by a hunched posture, his fingers gripping the armrests as if they were the only thing anchoring him to reality.
His gaze, usually piercing, was now wide with apprehension, unable to meet mine or anyone else's.
Beads of sweat had formed on his forehead, glistening under the room's dim light, a stark contrast to his usually composed appearance.
It was evident that whatever or whoever was in front of him had rattled the very core of his confidence, leaving behind a chilling aura of vulnerability and fear.
he is a man of a slender build that possessed a demeanor that exuded a sleazy aura.
his gaunt frame seemed almost exaggerated, accentuating his sly and calculated nature.
his presences seemed to slither through the crowds leaving an unsettling impression on those who observed him.
his sharp eyes always seem to be darting around the room constantly assessing the scene with a calculated gaze.
he wore ostentatious clothing a mismatched ensemble that attempted to covey a sense of luxury but ended up looking cheap and garish.
his thinning hair was slicked back revealing a receding hairline that he desperately tried to conceal.
with a permanent smirk etched n his lips he projected an air of untrustworthiness.
his words dripped with insincerity as if every conversating waxed an opportunity to manipulate or deceive.
he possessed a knack one which I see past for charming unsuspecting guest using his silver tongue to coax them into spending more money all while maintaining a façade of false friendliness.
his thin bony finger were adorned with gaudy rings symbols of his ostentatious desires.
he gestures with an exaggerated precision accentuating his manipulative nature.
it was clear his primary concern lay in maximizing his profits event at the expense of his partner patrons and staffs well being.
his voice a smooth yet grating timbre cut through air with practiced charm that masked his underlying intentions.
he had a knack for spinning tales and making empty promises enticing people with illusions of grandeur while his true motives remained counseled.
my sleazy boss thrived in the shadows of his kingdom orchestrating questionable deals and engaging in unscrupulous activates.
his club was his den of iniquity a playground for those seeking indulging vices while he reaped the profits.
his demeanor left me with a lingering sense of discomfort and unease an instinctive wariness that warned me against trusting his every word or falling prey to his manipulative charms.
the very essence of huis being seemed to embody the dark underbelly of Gotham's club scene- a symbol of the unsavory aspects that lurked behind the glitz and glamour.
with a touch of trepidation i step into the boss's office.
the bosses gaze immediately fixated on me.
A lecherous smirk crept across his face as he eyed me up and down, his intentions unmistakably inappropriate his scared face drowning into his smirk.
"Well, well, look at what we have here." my boss drawls his eyes once again taking in my presence longer than I wanted.
"Come closer, my dear." he motions with his hand for me to approach his desk as he licks his horrible lips.
I try to maintain my composure and cautiously approached the boss's desk.
I take a glance at the other presence in the room.
Seated in a regal chair across from my dickhead of a boss was a man shrouded an aura of mystery the man who seemed to make my boss shit himself in fear.
His very aura mixed with his striking appearance commanded attention.
Dressed in a crisp red dress shirt that hugged his athletic physique, emphasizing his strong and well-defined build whilst accentuate his confident demeanor, he exuded an air of mystery and elegance.
A sleek and tailored suit adorned his form, its dark black color matching the intensity of his shirt.
Yet, it was the distinctive red half mask that covered the upper portion of his face that immediately took my attention.
The mask added an intriguing touch, hinting at hidden motives and secrets beneath the surface.
It concealed part of his features.
However his eyes even covered by a white film domino mask felt intense and intimidating.
eyes that so strongly held the same intensity as the man upstairs from me.
His black hair, neatly styled, framed his face with a touch of sophistication the white streak in the front adding an edge.
Each strand seemed to fall into place with meticulous care, highlighting his sharp features.
Though his eyes held a certain allure, there was an intensity within them that suggested a depth of knowledge and experience.
Confident and self-assured, the man exuded an aura of power that resonated through the room.
His presence and demeanor, while composed, confident and self-assured, hinted at a controlled strength lying just beneath the surface.
demanding all of my attention, captivating me with an unfamlier feeling of lust.
It was evident that he was accustomed to being in control, comfortable navigating both the shadows and the spotlight.
There was a palpable energy surrounding him, as if he was a force to be reckoned with, both physically and intellectually.
His gaze seemed to hold a thousand untold stories, and his mere presence left an indelible impression on those who had the privilege—or misfortune—of crossing his path.
Whether he was a figure of intrigue, an ally, or a potential adversary, it was clear that this man possessed a magnetic charisma and an unmistakable aura of power that left a lasting impression.
" you called for me ?" I question fighting the urge to make my tone snarky.
"Mix some of your special drinks for our esteemed guests my dear, and make it quick. We wouldn't want to keep our valuable patron waiting." my boss flashes one of his fake smiles at the man then swats me away.
I suppress my anger and discomfort and nodded, proceeding to the bar area to fulfill the boss's request.
As I worked I let myself stare at the mysterious person.
little did I know he observed the scene between my boss and I with a mix of curiosity and growing anger, yet remained silent, observing the situation unfold.
The boss leaned back in his chair, watching my every move, his eyes filled with an unsettling hunger.
"That's it, my dear. Shake those cocktails just the way I like it." he hinted with a strident tone.
I force a smile, doing my best to maintain professionalism despite the sleazy comments.
The mysterious figure's gaze hardened at my boss , however, they remained silent, biding their time.
As I approached the boss's desk with the drinks, his gaze shifted from me to the glasses, a lecherous grin spreading across his face.
"Well, well, my dear," he drawled, his voice oozing with sleaze. "You certainly know how to shake things up. But I'm afraid I have another task for you. Come closer, won't you?"
I took a deep breath, trying to maintain my composure despite the discomfort coursing through me.
With caution, I placed the drinks on the desk and stood my ground, glancing nervously at the mysterious figure seated nearby.
Seated in his regal chair, the enigmatic man observed the situation with a raised brow and hard stare.
His eyes bore into the boss, a flicker of protectiveness shining through.
However, he remained silent, his presence a silent threat.
The boss's attention returned to me as he reached into a drawer and pulled out an envelope.
He smirked, as if relishing the power he held over me.
"Lauren, my dear," he said, his voice dripping with insincerity.
"Here's your pay for the day. Now, be a good girl and take it. You've done enough for today. Run along now."
I held out my hand, my voice steady but filled with hidden defiance.
"Thank you, sir," I replied, trying to mask my resentment.
"But I believe it's customary to receive payment at the end of the week. Is there a reason for this change?" I question my alarms ringing.
The boss chuckled, his amusement at my protest evident. "Oh, Lauren, always questioning. Let's just say I'm feeling generous today. Now take your money and be grateful for what you've got. Consider it an advance." he gives me a shit eating grin and waves the envelope at me.
I clenched my jaw, fighting back the urge to retort.
I took the envelope from his outstretched hand, the crisp bills inside a stark contrast to the man's untrustworthy nature.
"As you wish, sir," I replied, my voice laced with forced politeness. "If there's nothing else, I'll be on my way."
The mysterious figure's eyes bore into the boss, his anger simmering beneath the surface.
Though he remained silent, the intensity of his gaze spoke volumes.
It was as if he was silently urging me to leave, to escape the clutches of the sleazy man behind the desk.
The boss waved his hand dismissively, a smug smile playing on his lips. "Yes, yes, off you go. Remember, Lauren, you're replaceable. Don't let me catch you slacking off next time."
With a mix of relief and frustration, I turned on my heel and left the office, the enigmatic man's gaze burning in my memory.
authors note
i hate this boss haha.
anyway have a gd day/night.