While the towering platform boots were uncomfortable, they were not nearly as distracting as the unnatural cling of the spandex bodysuit.

She relentlessly assured herself that this was a good idea. Despite the effort she was vibrating with nerves, unable to keep her jaw from trembling. It was not a fear of danger, or failure, or even embarrassment – it was a fear of possibility. If this had become a viable option, what else might she do?

For one, there was her 3-year-old Max. Max’s father, luckily, was probably miles away at the moment. Answering phones was fine during the day, but it didn’t go very far when the time came to pay bills and buy food.

The room was a dark, smoky haze of neon light and mirrored reflections. Her new friend Heather was out there now, her years of experience readily apparent. She, on the other hand, was not nearly so uninhibited.

She caught a glimpse of herself in the dressing room mirror. She had to admit, despite her nerves, that the outfit was strangely empowering.