Adam decided to fill out the forms Jack gave him. Las Vegas was a tough town and without Terrance he felt very alone. He decided to take Jack’s advice and try to be a big fish in a small pond. Well, actually he chose it because Terrance’s roommate decided to move and Adam once again found himself homeless. He was also tired of singing with no one even pretending to listen. Adam just hoped Jack didn’t turn out to be slimy or expect Adam to have sex with him.
Brad told him he was being naïve and pleaded with him to come back to LA before he got sold to a white slave ring. Adam figured he still had five hundred dollars left so he could always fly to LA if things got bad. Adam gave his job a week’s notice and flew to Reno as soon as the week finished. Jack sent a car that took him to the casino. Adam was given a nice suite which had a microwave and refrigerator. That night, Adam met Jack for dinner.
“I am so glad you decided to come to Reno. The timing is great because the singer at one of the lounges just got himself fired.”
Adam raised an eyebrow and Jack nodded, “I have a zero toleration policy for people not showing up for work without calling. If you are incapacitated than have the hospital call. That wasn’t the circumstance on this one. She simply decided not to show up and thought it would be excused.”
Adam thought there was probably more to the story but he’d take a lucky break. “In that case, when do I start?”
“I was hoping tomorrow you could meet with Rachel, the club manager and she could fill you in on the details. I think Natalie sang five nights a week. On Friday and Saturday night we have a cover band.”
“Aren’t those the busy nights?”
“Exactly, which is why we have a band. This first gig will let you ease into the scene in Reno. Besides, you will be busy recording some tracks too.”
“How much does the lounge gig pay?”
“I’m not sure. When you meet with Rachel, she will fill you in on all the details. I am sure it pays at least as much as your last job since I know how cheap Peter can be with his payroll.”
Adam was glad but still a bit apprehensive about his situation. He wanted to believe that Jack was doing all this because he thought Adam was talented, “I really appreciate everything you are doing to help me out. Not many people would go to the trouble.”
“Nonsense, you are very talented and I think you will do very well in Reno. You are a very charismatic young man and with the right attitude you could really make a name for yourself.”
Adam couldn’t pinpoint it but for some reason alarms were going off in his head. He decided to just ignore them since he wasn’t sure what they were about. Jack ordered a bottle of champagne to celebrate and Adam decided to not worry and just deal with whatever when it came up.
Adam was buzzed by the time the meal was over and also exhausted from the past few days. Jack suggested he get a good night’s rest and to call him if there were any issues after he met with Rachel. Outside of the restaurant, Jack shook his hand and just hailed Adam a taxi to take back to the Casino. Adam was relieved that Brad seemed to be totally wrong in his assessment that Jack wanted sex or was selling his to a slave ring.
The next day, Adam went to the lounge to meet with Rachel. She was in her late 40s and seemed really busy with a liquor order. Adam wasn’t sure what to do, “Jack told me to come see you about me replacing the singer that left. Is it a good time or should I come back later?”
Rachel looked at Adam and just rolled her eyes, “Can you at least sing? The last time he made me hire one of his boys, the guy was tone deaf.”
Adam frowned, “I am sure he wouldn’t have given me a singing job unless I could sing. Do you want me to audition?”
“No, it wouldn’t matter anyway. Just come back at six so you can meet the pianist. I don’t need you Friday or Saturday night because I have a band that plays.”
Adam had a feeling business was slow during the week but tried to remain optimistic, “Is there any sort of dress code?”
“Dress tastefully and look good. It will be kind of slow tonight so relax. Here is some paperwork to fill out. Bring it back with you tonight.” Rachel went back to her task and just ignored him. Adam took the paperwork and left. He went to Starbucks and filled it all out. He then went back to his room relaxed for a few hours before going to work. The club was slow so he was stuck serenading about 12 customers, half of which had hearing aids dam was sure they had shut off. Jack came in at around two am. Adam was finishing up his last set and went by Jack.
“You sounded good, kid. Don’t worry there was a fight tonight so that is why it was so empty. Tomorrow the crowd will double.”
Double would still mean a thin crowd but Adam needed to stay positive, “Great, when are we going into the studio?”
“Funny you should ask. I was hoping tomorrow. I have a demo I’d like to get on tape and also maybe you could help out with some voice over stuff.”
“Sure, what time?”
“Meet me in the lobby at noon and we will head over. See you then.”
Adam watched Jack leave feeling more optimistic. He had another drink. Rachel came over and gave him an envelope with $100. Adam appreciated the cash especially since it was an easy gig.
The next day Adam went to the studio and was given the lyrics to a pretty crappy song. Adam sang it knowing it was a lousy song. Once they finished the first demo, Jack gave Adam a healthy shot of some good vodka. He also had some really good weed. Adam was feeling pretty good.
Jack smiled, “So Adam you have a really sexy voice and one of the things we need is some enhancements to one of our films. As I mentioned, I have an adult film company and we produce avant-garde films. This last one features a really hot man but he just doesn’t sound sexy. I’d like you to do some voiceovers so we can dub your voice into the film. I’ll pay you five hundred for the film and it will only take about two hours.”
Adam was pretty wasted but had a feeling this was a bad idea, “Would I have to have sex?”
“Not necessarily but it is up to you how you generate the sounds. You won’t be on film at all. You basically just need to talk dirty and moan. It is a set script since you have to match the actor’s lips moving.”
Adam shrugged, “I’ll give it a try but I can’t guarantee I’ll be any good.”
Adam watched the video and had to say a lot of corny porn lines, as well as, moan. Since he was naturally uninhibited, it was easy for him to do the voice over. Jack was ecstatic, “You know if you worked out a bit, I could probably get you in front of the camera.”
Adam wasn’t sure if he was flattered or insulted. However, he had no intention of ever doing porn. In fact, he was regretting doing what he had done in the studio. Adam shook his head, “No thanks, I am hoping to get famous one day so I don’t want too many skeletons.”
Jack smiled, “Some people’s careers start off with a sex tape. I respect where you are coming from and I will even leave your name off the credits. Let’s go celebrate.”
There was no sense wasting a good buzz so Adam agreed to go. The couple weeks Adam became accustomed to his new surroundings. His singing gig continued to be a bit slow but stress free. Adam noticed ever since doing the voice-overs, Jack seemed to be paying a lot more attention to Adam. Jack never crossed the line but he made appoint to see Adam at least once a day and often took him out to restaurants. Adam thought Jack an interesting enough guy but was definitely in no way attracted to him or interested in becoming one of Jack’s “boys”. Since Reno was much smaller than Las Vegas, there were far fewer places to party at and Adam found most of the residents ended up in the same watering holes. Since Adam swore off men he was perfectly content hanging out with Jack most nights and ignoring the cute boys. Adam was aware that many thought he was Jack’s latest “boy” but Adam was so used to people thinking the worst it was easy to ignore.
Ever since arriving in Reno, Adam heard about a massive masquerade ball held every year that was attended by the jet-setting elite and A-listers. Rachel had talked about it nonstop and was pissed she wasn’t going. Tickets for the event ranged between $500-$2500 each and Adam just couldn’t justify the expense nor cover the cost. On Friday night, Jack surprised him with a ticket and insisted he go since it was the biggest party all year. Jack also gave him a beautiful feather and gem masque to don at the event. Resistance was futile.
Jack informed him, “Since everyone is masked the clothing attire tends to be more risqué so feel free to dress as outrageously as you like. I’ll meet you in the lobby at 9 and then we will head out.”
Adam had a bad feeling in his stomach, “Jack, are you sure you want me to go with you? I am sure one of your…er friends might want-“
“Nonsense, I lured you here from the glitz of Las Vegas the least I can do is take you to the one not so lame party. It is no big deal and I enjoy your company.” Jack smiled, “You are very easy on the eyes. Now, go get done.”
Adam decided to ignore his gut and take Jack’s offer at face value. Adam picked out a really hot outfit and finished primping. He headed down to the lobby at nine. Jack was there and practically leered at Adam, “Like I said, you are real easy on the eyes. I am going to have to keep a close eye on you tonight. Sometimes anonymity makes people act more bold and exercise poor judgement. I certainly don’t want anyone ruining your good time. Come on, heartbreaker.”
Adam just held is tongue not sure how to respond. Luckily, Jack just ushered him to his limo and gave him a healthy drink as they drove to the ball. Adam had a feeling it was going to be an interesting night.
*~*
It took Kris a couple weeks to wrap up the details before heading out to Reno. Allison insisted on joining him for moral support. The detective he had hired had told him where Adam lived and worked. However, after everything that happened, Kris did not want to just show up and get a door slammed in his face. He also didn’t want Adam to know he was stalking him. The perfect opportunity arose when Alison informed him about the infamous masquerade ball held at Edge Nightclub. Both Leila and Brad assured him Adam would never miss the biggest party no matter what he had to do to go. Although “sold out”, Kris was able to get a “VIP” ticket which was a modest two grand. Since Allison was under 21, she couldn’t attend and was a bit pissed off. Still she helped him get done and purchase a mask.
Out of desperation, Kris listened to Allison and dressed in clothes he normally wouldn’t be caught dead in. He had on tight, white leather pants with a sleeves red, transparent blouse. Kris frowned, “I look like a Saturday Night Fever reject.”
“No you look like a twink which is what Adam seems to like. Look at Brad, this is totally a Cheeks type ensemble. You should pierce your nipples.”
“Not only no but hell no and by the way. Adam dumped Brad.”
“Kris, you have come this far. Is wearing a non-plaid outfit that big a stretch at this point? Now let’s finish your hair and makeup and send you on your way. Are you sure you don’t want to dye your hair blonde?”
Kris shook his head and just prayed Allison would finish fast. The plan was Kris would attract Adam away from whoever he was with, confess his feelings and beg Adam to come back to California. Kris would offer Adam his old job in the theater and give him back his apartment no strings attached. Then when Adam was back safe and sound in LA, Kris would try to date him like a normal person. Well, still being discreet because of the fame and his marriage. Desperate to win Adam back, he was willing to look into getting divorced if Adam pushed the issue. Of course, the night did not unfold as planned.
Kris arrived at the crowded club and waited in a “VIP” area for a few minutes before being let inside. Since everyone was in costume and identities were hidden people were being treated based on their tickets. Kris was glad because he figured he was probably not the biggest and coolest star there. Once inside, Kris was a bit intimidated by the crazy ambiance and seeing everyone in masks. He was worried he would never even find Adam.
A half hour later, Kris’ fears were alleviated when he saw a very tall, glittery man wearing a very gaudy feathered mask. Kris smiled because only a six foot Adam would wear twelve inch platform boots. Unfortunately, Kris also noticed another masked man guiding Adam possessively threw the crowd. Jack Montage, no doubt.
Kris did a few shots as he contemplated his next move. Deep in thought, he was interrupted by a familiar voice, “How about I relieve your boredom by dancing with you?”
Kris was shocked to be looking at the very object of his desire, “Sure.” Kris wondered if Adam knew it was him. Even more distressing, the shock of making contact caused him to forget he couldn’t really dance and only panicked once they got there. Luckily Adam’s idea of dancing seemed to consist of grinding up against him on a crowded dance floor so Kris wasn’t required to pull out any great moves.
“You are so fucking hot. What’s your name, sexy?”
Kris could tell Adam was fairly wasted and wondered if he should play it off. It is also reminded Kris that Adam was a player and probably not even pining his absence. Adam seemed to accept the non-answer, “Ooh a mysterious stranger. I can do that. Actually, I swore off men so not knowing your name is even better.”
Kris couldn’t help himself, “Why would you swear off men?”
“The usual reason, I keep getting fucked over by them. The last one was a real asshole and I ended up homeless and jobless. I can’t afford any more relationships.”
Kris felt guilty but then remembered Jack, “Who is the guy you are with? He seems to be jealous.”
“Nah, he is just my boss.”
Kris looked over and Jack was signaling for one of the bouncers. The bouncer came over and whispered something to Adam. Adam sighed, “My friend wants me to meet some people. Thanks for the dance.”
Kris needed to keep Adam’s attention, “How about we dance again or go back to my place?”
Adam giggled, “You are a hot thing, aren’t you. Where are you staying?”
“I am at the Atlantis resort.”
“Me too. I live there. Give me your room number and I will come by.” Adam seemed a bit impatient to get over to Jack which made Kris wonder if he was scared on the repercussions of making him wait. Kris needed to save Adam and couldn’t risk Adam screwing this up.
Kris also had a feeling Adam would be too drunk to remember, “How about you give me yours?”
Adam hesitated, “No, my room is a mess. Give me yours, hot stuff.”
Out of options, Kris replied, “Room 2015, don’t forget, Adam.” Kris kicked himself for being so stupid as to say his name. Luckily, Adam didn’t seem to take exception.
“Ok, got it 2015. That is the year my driver’s license expires so I will remember.” Adam moved closer and ran his tongue down Kris’ neck, “And you won’t ever forget tonight.”
Adam left a confused Kris on the dance floor. Did Adam know? Would he come to the room?”
Kris watched Adam go back over by his friend and they seemed to argue a bit. Then they joined other people and seemed to be having a good time. Kris watched Adam move through several circle of people and then disappear into a uber-exclusive room. Kris was exhausted and decided to hope for the best. He headed back to his room to make sure everything was set for Adam to show up. That meant making sure Allison wasn’t around.
At around four in the morning, Kris heard a knock at the door and saw Adam standing there with his mask pushed up. Kris quickly grabbed his max and put it on before answering the door. Adam smiled, “I didn’t forget.”
Adam went to lift Kris’ mask but Kris stopped him. During the three hour wait for Adam to show, Kris decided to take the sex first before revealing his true identity. He knew it was potentially an asshole move but Kris wanted at least one last night with Adam Lambert.
Adam seemed to give up on unmasking him, “OK, mysterious, anonymous sex it is. Can I come in hot stuff?”
Kris stepped aside and let Adam in. He took a deep breath before shutting the door to what he was sure would be a night to remember.