Cherreads

Chapter 18 - Work

I made my way behind the bar, adjusting my necktie to project a polished and appealing image. The shelves showcased an array of beers and spirits, categorized by their quality. As I surveyed the room, I noticed many affluent patrons, including numerous well-known actors and influencers from around the globe.

In my line of sight, I spotted a group near the end of the table, closely monitored by security, who seemed to be whispering and glancing in my direction. A small smirk involuntarily crept onto my face.

Do I really appear appealing in this bartender attire?

It fits my physique perfectly, accentuating my lean and athletic build, a result of my rigorous exercise routine.

It certainly grabs the attention of the ladies.

Finally, one of the women took the initiative and approached me at the bar.

She wore maroon lipstick and bold makeup. Her brown hair was styled in a bun, with a few strands framing her face. The red bodycon dress she donned clung to her figure in a way that would weaken the resolve of any man. But I am committed.

She gracefully settled onto a barstool, resting her elbows on the counter, her chin propped in her hands. Her gaze was both seductive and sweet as our eyes met.

"My, my..."

"What can I assist you with, miss?" I asked, maintaining professionalism to keep my mission on track. I straightened up, bringing a glass to my hand with confidence.

"I'd like a tequila, please," she replied, drawing out the 's' while playfully twirling a strand of hair to enhance her appeal.

"Certainly, miss." I turned away to prepare her drink, catching a surprised gasp from her.

She hadn't anticipated me passing on any more... personal advances.

Yet, it appeared I had misjudged her resolve, as she appeared quite determined.

"What's your name? You seem..." She paused, sensually biting her lip, "Hot for a bartender... and mysterious and alluring too~" She crossed her legs, drawing my attention.

I took a breath to regain my composure.

It was a challenge to refrain from responding too aggressively to her advances. While I appreciated the flirtation at times, it could be frustrating when someone failed to take 'no' for an answer.

If only her flattery didn't grate on my nerves. The way she spoke made me aware of her attraction, fueling my annoyance and intrigue at the same time.

Once I finished her tequila, I turned back to her with a professional smile and presented the glass.

"So, there aren't any attractive bartenders around here before?" I teased, showcasing a playful smirk. She blushed slightly but managed to collect herself, taking the glass from me, her fingers brushing against mine as she sipped.

"N-no... there are other hot bartenders, but you feel different. There's something about you that pulls me in," she whispered, her voice smooth as she twirled a finger around the rim of her glass, her gaze locked on mine.

I released a soft chuckle.

"Ran."

She appeared taken aback.

"Ran?" she inquired, to which I nodded.

"Yes, that's me. And what should I call you, beautiful?" I laughed softly, leaning casually against the counter, still smiling.

"Stella. That's my name," she said sweetly, her smile captivating enough to leave anyone in awe.

I nodded, feeling a strange familiarity with her name as if I had seen it on television or in a magazine, though I couldn't quite place it. That was, until a group of men, exuding wealth, approached her, requesting her autograph.

"Stella! We're your biggest fans! Can we have your autograph?" they all chimed in unison, presenting their small notebooks and pens.

Stella smiled, giving a slight nod as she took the pen.

"Of course, anything for my fans!" she replied cheerfully, signing their notebooks before handing back the pen and waving goodbye, blowing them a kiss.

I couldn't help but hum in amusement, raising an eyebrow.

"Looks like you're quite the celebrity, huh?" I teased, winking at her. She giggled, throwing me a playful glare as she crossed her arms against the counter.

"Not to brag, but I am famous. I am Stella Grace, after all~"

The moment she revealed her full name, my eyes widened. No wonder she seemed so familiar—I had seen her on billboards, posters, magazines, and on television. She was the country's top actress, the one who had won both a rookie award and a Grammy several years ago.

I snapped my fingers and chuckled.

"That explains why you seem so recognizable!" I said with a calm smile.

"I knew you would take a while to figure it out. I mean, how can anyone not know who I am?" she said with a hint of pride.

"So, are you well-known around here at the club too?" I asked, tilting my head slightly.

"Absolutely! I know a lot of people, both regulars and newcomers. Even those who fly under the radar," she replied candidly, giggling again.

I felt a rush of amusement at her confidence. She seemed to have connections with everyone at this club. I must be fortunate.

To the mysterious parents I've never known, thank you for these good looks that attract charming women.

"So, I assume you could help me out, then?" I leaned closer, exuding confidence.

I noticed her breath catch for a moment as she looked at me with wide eyes, her cheeks flushing a deeper shade of red.

"Well... Why wouldn't I help a handsome guy like you? It's a great opportunity," she murmured, her breath slightly uneven, and I spotted her squeezing her thighs together.

Someone's feeling a spark.

I decided to play along, pretending to be genuinely interested in her.

"Good girl..." I whispered, my breath grazing her face as I reached out to cup her cheek, gently stroking it with my thumb, eliciting a soft whimper from her.

What a tempting flirt.

"Are you familiar with the Mississippi twins? No?" I murmured, gazing intently at her to gauge her response.

If she's not useful, then someone like her deserves to face the consequences.

"Oh, the twins? Yes, I'm quite close with them. We hang out every Friday!" she said, her eyes lighting up. My surprise was evident.

Wow, I hadn't expected her to be so well-connected.

"Oh really? How close are you to them?" I asked, intrigued, and she answered without hesitating.

"I met them two years ago when I first came here through a friend I met online. They rescued me from a man who was harassing me, and that's when we started to bond," she said with a smile, as if reminiscing about her saviors.

Impressive.

"So how can I meet these two? They sound intriguing, you know~" I said, my thumb tracing her jawline, gently brushing her lower lip. Her face flushed even more.

"You can meet the Mississippi twins every Friday... that's when they take a break from work," she stammered, gulping nervously.

"Thank you, my sweet Stella. However..." I paused, briefly studying her lips before returning my gaze to her eyes, which sparkled with a mixture of desire and submission.

"It won't be easy for me to get close to them... I need someone..."

I leaned in close to her ear, my thumb gently gliding over her lower lip.

"I need your assistance. Will you help me?" I whispered softly, playfully nibbling her earlobe. She squeaked slightly but nodded without delay.

"Y-yes, Ran. I'll help you..." she breathed out, and I could tell she was feeling quite flustered.

"Good things come to those who are obedient." I pulled back to glance around the busy area before leaning in again to place a kiss on her forehead.

"That, my dear, is my reward," I murmured softly, pulling away and giving her a knowing smirk.

I couldn't help but enjoy how easily I could influence others.

"T-thank you..." she said with a shy smile, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

I simply nodded and returned to my duties, serving the customers their favorite drinks.

"For now, let's keep it professional. We can continue this later..." I took one last look at her as she straightened up and nodded, pretending as if nothing had occurred.

I'm intrigued to see where this leads, especially now that I've found someone so helpful. Things are certainly getting more captivating.

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