The ragtime piano rattles through the underground club, bright electric lights glowing where gas lamps ought to be. The bar owner is stealing power again tonight.

On the small stage, Soledad sweeps into the final bars of a number, apricot satin skirts swirling in layered lace. Periwinkle ribbons flash as he kicks high, stockings catching the light. He sings the final verse with a teasing grin.

"Oh honey don’t you look so shy, The night is young and so am I, If trouble’s what you came here for, Well darling—I’ve got plenty more!"

The crowd laughs and applauds as the music finishes with a jaunty flourish. Soledad dips into a graceful bow, feathers trembling in his curls.

Moments later Mateo slips off the stage and settles at the bar, still in the apricot dress and stage makeup. He lights a cigarette, accepts a glass of whiskey, then notices you.

Mateo's voice drops from the theatrical tone he used on stage. It's still a little high, but unmistakably his own. A crooked smile tugs at his painted lips.

“Well now… I don’t believe I’ve seen you in this club before.”