Nolan nodded, a firm look in his eyes. âYep, letâs move. Time to meet Domingo Skinner.â
The drive was smooth, but as they pulled into the parking lot of the entertainment venue, Reginaâs heart started to pound with anxiety.
âNervous?â Nolan asked, glancing over at her.
She nodded, biting her lip. âItâs the first time I might come face-to-face with Domingo. How could I not be?â
âDonât worry about digging up too much dirt. Itâs just the two of us after all. Letâs just scope the scene. If we get to see him, great. If not, we play it cool like weâre just here for a good time. No pressure.â
Regina took a deep breath. âI just want to see what kind of monster could do such terrible things.â
Nolan felt a surge of protectiveness seeing Reginaâs resolve. âLetâs go then.â
As they approached the entrance, Nolan reached out and took Reginaâs hand. She looked up at him, a questioning look in her eyes..
âSorry, Ms. Tanner, for dragging you into this,â he whispered, careful not to draw attention.
Regina chuckled softly. âWho says Iâm not the one getting the better deal here?â
His lips twitched into a genuine smile at her comeback; she always had a way of surprising him.
âGuess weâre taking advantage of each other then,â he joked.
Regina, serious yet playful, nodded in agreement. âI can live with that.â
As they entered, a hostess in a sleek black uniform zeroed in on them, her eyes sharp with curiosity.
Nolanâs natural authority, coupled with his imposing demeanor, could be intimidating when he was expressionless.
Regina quickly stepped in front of him. âWeâre just here to check the place out. Friends told us Joy Center has it all. First time here-any recommendations?â
The hostess flashed a practiced smile. âYouâve come to the right place. Joy Centerâs the most happening spot around. Our facilities are top-notch, our service unmatched. As long as youâve got the cash, weâll make sure you have the time of your life.
Regina raised an eyebrow skeptically. âSounds too good to be true.â
The hostess didnât argue, merely suggesting theyâd understand once they experienced it themselves.
âHow about a private room to start? We canât go all out without knowing if itâs worth our hard-earned cash.â
The hostess nodded eagerly. âOf course. We have rooms that cater to all levels of⦠adventure. If youâre undecided, you might want to start with our standard offerings.â
Her tone seemed to challenge them, and Nolan, from behind Regina, said firmly, âThe most expensive you have.â
Regina playfully latched onto his arm, feigning protest. âGeez, itâs our first time here. Why splurge on the most expensive? What if itâs not as fun as they say?â
The hostess was quick to assure them. âMiss, no offense, but you both look like you can afford a bit of luxury. Isnât that what moneyâs for? To enjoy the finer things in life and chase a little happiness?â