Chapter 243 Lexi

• The countdown to opening night ticked like a bomb in Lexi's veins, rehearsals blurring into a frenzy of silk costumes and spotlight sweat. The Mirage Palace thrummed with pre-show chaos—dancers stretching in the wings, techs cursing faulty lights—but Carlos's grip tightened like a vice. He shadowed her every move, eyes devouring her from across the stage, a predator staking claim. 'You're mine to showcase,' he'd murmur during breaks, fingers brushing her thigh under the table, sending unwelcome sparks through her core.
• That evening, as the sun dipped behind the desert haze, he cornered her in the dressing room mirror's glow. 'Private game tonight. High rollers. You come as my charm.' His voice brooked no argument, hand sliding up her spine to tangle in her hair, yanking her head back for a bruising kiss. Tongue thrusting deep, he ground his erection against her hip. 'Wear the red dress. No panties.'
• Lexi shoved at his chest, breath hitching. 'I'm not your toy for bets.' But the heat in her belly betrayed her, pussy clenching at the command. Threats from Hale still loomed—another slashed costume that morning, a note pinned to her locker: Break a leg. Permanently. She needed Carlos's protection, even if it chained her closer.