“I have a bit of a problem,” Amelia said to Lexy as they sat in the empty bar, waiting for the regulars to arrive. It was still mid afternoon.
“Huh?” Lext asked.
“This place isn’t making enough money. I might have to close down if I can’t make more, and quick. Have you got any ideas?”
Lexy sat up straight, her eyes widening in concern. "Amelia, I don't know, but we'll figure something out. We're friends. Besides, you're a smart woman. Surely there's something we can do."
Amelia nodded, her eyes searching the bar for inspiration. "I've been thinking about it, and maybe I could put together some sort of show. You know, get people through the door and make a bit of money that way."
Lexy's eyebrows furrowed. "A show? Like what?"
Amelia smiled, a sly curve to her lips. "I was thinking maybe a bit of burlesque. You know, a bit of fun. Maybe it’ll make this place different, maybe draw more customers in."
Lexy's eyes lit up. "You're serious? That's brilliant! We could get some dancers in.”
“I… uh… I don’t really have the money to pay dancers."
“Oh…” Lexy suddenly looked at Amelia, stunned. “Oh. Wait, you want me to put on the show?”
Amelia hesitated for a moment, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her at putting the suggestion out there.
"I... I didn't mean for you to be the one to put on the show, Lexy, I could do it myself," Amelia stammered, her cheeks flushing with heat. "I just... I need help, and I thought you might have some ideas. But if you don't want to, that's completely fine. I understand. You could work the bar while I do it."
Lexy shook her head, a determined look in her eyes. "No, I'll do it. I want to help you, Amelia. We're friends, and I'll do whatever I can to make sure this bar stays open. Maybe we can take turns each night?"
Amelia couldn't believe her ears. Lexy had offered to put on the show with her. She felt a surge of gratefulness and excitement.
"Thank you, Lexy," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "I don't know what I would do without you."
"We'll make it work," Lexy assured her, grinning widely. "And we'll make this show so amazing that people will line up to see it. Then we can pay for some more dancers.”
