Finally a break.

Two months of running around this dirty city, trying to find a renegade Lycan. I’m craving some serious time off. And finally it’s coming tonight.

My go-to place is a nightclub, The Capricorn. A sleek spot filled with deep bass and pretty girls. Their drinks are good. Pricey, but good. And generally my favourite seat is free. A dim corner, facing the dance floor. From there I can watch the Plainfolks abandon themselves to the low pulse of the electro music. It’s such a mood. Their bodies coming together, the rays of light illuminating their faces briefly as they move in a trance. It’s almost hypnotic and it puts me at peace.

Riding my bike to the place, my mind is already there. The rain is slamming against my helmet, the city lights are getting distorted through the drops, and some already drunk drivers are getting in my path. But I don’t care. Tonight, it’s going to be me-time. No one and nothing is getting in the way.

Not even the long line of rich kids waiting to enter.

They talk about stratagem on how to get, I quote: “pussy”. A very elaborate plan involving several players. When really, you just need eye contact and a smooth one-liner. The moment she reacts and laughs, you know you’re not going to end up in a cold bed. 

Simple. 

Efficient. 

Like all my hunts. 

On my last hunt, for example, I was the only Neutralizer. And as always, it was one of the cleanest solo job the Equilibrium Network ever had. But enough work talk, it’s time for me to sit back and relax.

The transition between the outside world and The Capricorn is like entering a vortex. Sounds from the busy streets fade out elegantly while muffled and deep vibrations invade your inside. I can’t stop the light smile on my face, I missed this so much.

The group of young men with an elaborate “pussy-hunting” program are leaving their expensive jackets to the coat check. A freckled arm receives them. Since when does Chris have freckles? It’s usually more of a layer of fur. Pretty hairy for a Plainfolk but definitely not a Lycan. I made sure to check that. Two bright and vivid green eyes are on me as soon as I stroll and stop in front of the small counter. I can’t help it, but notice her striking red hair. She seems startled by something but quickly puts on a very cute smile and her eyes slide to the black helmet tucked under my arm.

“Good evening! May I take your helmet miss?”

Such a pleasant voice. I give her my best smile, cool and confident as I drop my helmet on the counter.

“Good evening. You must be the new coat check here because it looks like the charm just got an upgrade.”

She blinked several times, more confused than anything else. Then a cute little snicker.

“New face, yes! Ahm…Chris quit one month ago. And hu…here I am! Here is your number, miss.”

“You can call me Hana, we’ll probably see each other often. And what’s your name?” I ask, pocketing my number.

“Casey.” She replies hesitantly, almost with a question at the end of it.

“Well Casey, it’s a real pleasure meeting you. Pretty sure my helmet is in good company.”

She lets go a suppressed snort, and looks at the clients behind me. My cue to leave. I wink at her, my final deadly move, and walk away.

“Enjoy your night, miss!”

I look back at the ginger for an instant.

“Call me Hana!”

The music welcomes me inside, drowning the frustration of the two past month.

This is going to be a good night.