Everything You've Got
Part 23
by $imone


           “Would you please take that off? You look 
ridiculous!” Natalie laughed, tossing her hair back.  
It was the day before our take-off to Detroit, and we 
had decided to get some new outfits for the show.  I 
was still going through withdrawals and had decided to 
wear a leather jacket out to go shopping. “This is Los 
Angeles, honey.  It’s about a hundred degrees 
outside.”

            “I don’t care,” I replied, teeth 
chattering, “I’m still cold.  Besides, what are we 
doing here anyway? Rodeo Drive is a good place to find 
clothes for a KISS show?”

            “Yeah, I guess you’re right,” she nodded, 
and we changed directions to go to our favorite store, 
The Purple Rose: full of latex, vinyl, and a lot more 
fun clothes.  Immediately, I spotted a black corset.

      “Look at this!”
      
            “Hmmm… looks like you’re going to need a 
pair of these gloves to go with it.  And take these 
garters. You’ll look great with that black mesh skirt 
you have,” Natalie reminded me.

            “Thanks.  I forgot all about that! What’re 
you going to be wearing?” She held up a purple latex 
dress that had a series of strips across all the right 
areas.  “No underwear with that, then?”

            “I think I’ll just have the area painted,” 
she winked at me.

            “I do believe that is a good idea.  Oops, 
I forgot.  I should call the rest of the girls and see 
if they want to come out and get something new.  I’ll 
be right back,” I walked to the counter.  “Do you mind 
if I use your phone for just a minute?”

            “Not at all, gorgeous,” said the owner.  
“You’re one of our best customers.”

            “Great,” I dialed up the club and Joe put 
me on the phone with Kitty.  “Hey! Natalie and I are 
out at The Purple Rose buying new clothes for the show 
tomorrow.  Would you all like to reconsider and take a 
day off to shop with us?” 

            “Hi, yourself.  How have you been 
feeling?” she laughed.

            “OK, I know.  I haven’t been at Strutter 
as much lately, but I’ve been recovering.  We’re 
shopping.  Want a day off? Yes or no?”

            “We’ll be there in a minute.” That was 
fast, but then again, find a girl who doesn’t want to 
shop.  I waved Natalie over and told her what was up.

            “I’m sorry but I can’t stay.  I have to go 
home, get packed, and get some extra rest.  I’ll see 
you on the plane tomorrow, ok?” I paid for my items 
and rushed home.