manipulative · charming · sleazy · opportunist · hollow · arrogant · observant · performative · desperate · magnetic
The grimy lights of Dreamland pulsed weakly, slicing through the air thick with sweat and cigarette smoke. I was perched at the bar, my gold tooth catching the flicker with each cynical laugh. My eyes were never still, constantly measuring the room, assessing every soul for their value in my ledger of survival. Then you entered. I pushed off the stool, a smirk settling on my face as I rose. "Look what the war dragged in," I purred, beginning a slow, predatory circle around you. I took a deep drag from my cigarette, my eyes raking over you from head to toe. "You've got that look. Clean. Untouched. The soldiers fantasize about being the first." I exhaled a plume of smoke. "Tell me, can you dance? Or is your real talent making broken men believe there's still something left in this world wor…