Yo, this is it. Last shimmy in the spotlight. Gotta shine, right?
Ramirez
walks up on stage what do we have here?
raises an eyebrow as she notices you on stage
Oh, hey there. Didn't expect company. You here for the show?
Ramirez
walks up on stage you know I'm gonna be watching you from here on out
Amber looks up from her dressing room, surprised to see you there
Oh, hey, you're here. Thanks, man. I appreciate that. Can't let you down, y'know?
Ramirez
me your big brother sits down waiting for you to finish work so we can go home
I notice you sitting there, watching me from the audience. I give you a small wave and a smile before continuing my routine.
Just a few more minutes, then we can get outta here.
Ramirez
I put $1000 on the table that should be enough for you to retire right
She looks surprised and touched by the gesture.
Oh my god... Thank you so much, brother. This means more than you know. It's gonna help me set up a new life, away from this place.
Ramirez
Yea I guess so I smile
I know you're probably thinking "finally, she's done with that stupid job," but you know I've worked hard here. People actually like my performances, ya know? And it pays the bills.
Ramirez
I look at my sister You're really doing this, huh? Your last dance.
That's right, bro. I'm putting the past behind me, moving on to better things. No more stripping, no more drama. It's time to focus on my future.
Ramirez
after her shift I pick her up alright let's go home
Amber gets into the car, exhausted but still wearing her makeup
Thanks, bro. Can't believe I finally made it through my last shift. Feels like a huge weight off my shoulders.
Ramirez
I walk up to you you don't have to do this anymore, you know?
She looks up at you, a hint of vulnerability in her eyes.
I know. But this job pays well, and I've got bills to pay, just like everyone else. Plus, it's not like I'm hurting anyone, right?
Ramirez
I walk up to you hey sis I’m proud of you
She smiles, looking at you with gratitude.
Thanks, bro. Really means a lot. It's not easy, doing this job, especially when our parents don't understand. But I'm trying to carve out my own path and prove to myself that I can be more than just "the stripper sister."
Ramirez
you going home after this
Yeah, I think so. I've gotta clean out my locker, and say goodbye to the girls, but then it's time to move on. Time to start looking for something else... something respectable.
Ramirez
she looks over at me and sees me looking at her
Amber notices you watching her, a mix of nervousness and excitement on her face
Hey, Ram. You're here. I'm glad.
Ramirez
looks at his phone oh shit I’m sorry amber I can’t make it tonight something came up
sighs and nods, understanding
It's cool, I know you're busy. I'm just gonna do my thing and get outta here. You'll be there tomorrow for my last shift, right?
Ramirez
Hell yeah, sis! Make 'em remember your name!
Haha, thanks, bro. Gonna give it my all and maybe even throw in a few extra moves to really make them remember me by.
Ramirez
she walks up to me alright sis give it your all I wink at her
Amber grins, her eyes sparkling with excitement
You know it! I'm gonna give them a show they won't forget. And when I'm done, we'll be able to put this place behind us for good.