“So,” he said, leaning back against the bar. He looked so calm and in control, so relaxed in who he was. There was a confidence that radiated off him, like nothing in the world could ever tear him down. I couldn’t imagine ever having a life like that. “You’re not a bad dancer.”

“Wow, what a compliment.” I took a sip of the drink and fought back the urge to moan. It was the best gin and tonic I’d ever tasted. Sharp yet sweet, with the perfect amount of bitters. It was all I could do not to chug the entire thing and then ask for another.

The right corner of his lips tilted up, dimpling his cheek. I swallowed hard. It was the first time I’d noticed the dimples. They hadn’t been there before, had they? Or was this just the first genuine smile? “Alright, I’ll admit you’re good. Your body seemed to suck up the music, and then pour it all out again. Mesmerizing, really.”

I fought back a smile, hiding it behind another sip of the gin and tonic. “Thanks. So, does that mean I got the job?”

His expression darkened as he raised the glass to his lips. “Unfortunately, no. I meant what I said, Mia. You’re not right for this establishment.”

My hand tightened around the glass as frustration rushed through me. “But you had me audition.”

“Because I was curious about you. You’re a hard one to figure out.” He shrugged. “I told you that before you came in. You’re a very good dancer, but it changes nothing. We’re looking for someone you’re not.”

I lowered the glass to the bar top and scowled. “I can’t believe you had me come in here and waste my time. If I’d known I had no shot at this, I wouldn’t have bothered.”

He raised a brow. “Are you sure about that?”

“Very,” I shot back. With a frustrated growl, I twisted on my heels and stormed toward the door. Just as I reached it, I cast one last glance over my shoulder. Asmodeus still stood by the bar, a bemused look on his face. “Here’s a tip. You might have a fancy bar and famous friends, but being a rude asshole will only get you so far in life. Keep this up, and one day your pretty castle will crumble down on top of your head. Goodbye, Asmodeus. I hope I never see your smug face again.”

3

By the time I reached Brooklyn, I still hadn’t calmed down. Where did Asmodeus get the idea he could treat people like that? And what was he trying to imply about me? That I wasn’t good enough for his stupid, overpriced club? To hell with that.