Sway

Nadia peeked. The strip lounge. It was full of middle aged men — they all looked… sad.

Why were they even here? Nadia wondered if they’d be happier at homes with their families.

But maybe they didn’t have anyone… Maybe this was all they had.

She asked herself what Alice would say.

She saw Alice standing next to her in her minds eye. Her warmth. Her sunlight. Freckles like sun spots. A cheeky grin.

“Nadia. If you ever feel scared just pretend I’m standing behind ya with my baseball bat. Because I am. In your head. Forever. Now go on… Dance your heart out…”

Nadia peeled the curtain away. She walked up to the pole — her eyes darting around — squinting at the spotlight.

“She’s new…” a voice said.

The music started to play. She blushed. Her bare skin on show. Soft white breasts held by skimpy silver. Her trimmed muff similarly hidden - but barely. A thin waist and wide hips.

Nadia started to sway her hips. A slow smile on her face. She touched the pole. Grasping.

The crowd. All eyes on her. Then she danced.