Chapter 1

What do I do when I run out of options and I need money fast?

I sell the only thing that I have that is worth any value…

My virginity.

Bidding starts at 1 million...

Scarlett's Treasures, an exclusive auction house for wealthy men and women who buy the pleasures of those willing to give themselves...and they want me.

What's a girl to do when she's in her mid-twenties, is still a virgin... and broke AF?

Yep, I made that choice. Now, the only problem is, I don't have only one buyer to please, but there are three and one of them just so happens to be my childhood best friend and crush who broke my heart and left.

Now he's back and he's buying my virginity...which he thinks belongs to him.

Meeting their demands will be a challenge, but it's a choice that I'm going to have to make...

Aria's days as a transaction turn into something more personal, she realizes that she may have made the best decision of her life. Will she succumb to the demands of her buyers or risk losing everything for a chance at real love and belonging?

Chapter 1 - Prologue

Having a choice is not always a good thing. Take me for example. I had two choices. The first was to keep my pride and continue struggling physically, emotionally, and financially. The second was to swallow my pride and do what needed to be done in order to get through life. Door number two is how I came to be here, kneeling on the floor patiently waiting on one of my owners to arrive. Yes, I said owners. I made the choice to sell my virginity on an auction block in order to pay for my mother’s hospital bills and rent, which was already past due. It was not something that I ever thought I’d do, but when I heard bits and pieces of a customer’s conversation with their friend while I was at work and then they gave me their business card, the wheels in my head started to turn.

I was supposed to keep my virginity safe for someone special, but after all the years that I waited, I decided to kill two birds with one stone. Not only would I come out of this an actual woman, but I would be a somewhat rich woman. At least until I paid my outstanding debts. What I had not counted on was the buyer being plural. I was to be shared between friends.

As I continue to kneel, I think back to almost a little over a year ago when I was brought through the exact front door that I am now kneeling in front of. The man who purchased my virginity had explained some of the rules on the ride here, explaining that those who he would be sharing me with have different tastes than he did. He is the only one for whom I have to kneel. As long as I make myself available to all of them at any given time, the others will not make me kneel. Punishments are a different story. “They love punishing bad girls,” he told me. That statement had scared me at the time, and I tried to figure out if there was a way to give the money back and go home.

They stripped me right there in the foyer and inspected every crevice. If memory serves me, I tried running out the door, even being butt-ass naked, but they caught me around the waist, and I experienced my first spanking. Nothing surprised me more than to find out that getting spanked does delicious things to my body. The two of them enjoyed teasing me that night as they waited for the other friend to show up. I was ashamed that my body would betray me like that, but I was also hoping that it would mean that losing my virginity would not be as bad as I thought it would.

Finally, I hear voices outside the door, pulling me from my thoughts. My knees still are not accustomed to kneeling for long lengths of time, so excitement fills me at the sound of his voice getting closer. There is a second voice following him, and my heart skips a beat. I love all my men, but there is a special place in my heart for the one who has held that spot for the last nineteen years. When the door opens, I am greeted with, “Hello, Baby Doll.” I lean into the large hand sliding through my hair. I am then lifted onto my feet when I hear, “There’s my beautiful girl!” and I’m crushed into an embrace before his soft lips dominate my own. It is within these arms that I feel most at home.

When I was finally introduced to my third and final owner, it was as if the world tilted. I stopped breathing for a moment and the room started to spin as I became dizzy. I believe it was the first time that I came close to fainting….

(Flashback)

6 Years Old

“Will you marry me, Knox?” I try handing the dark-haired boy a handmade ring that I had made out of a dandelion stem. We have been best friends since he and his parents moved next door to us a year ago. It took him about a week or so for him to warm up to me with my energetic attitude, though. I think I scared him just a little bit. My mom used to say that I could have been the energizer bunny in another life, but he finally accepted that he couldn’t get rid of me that easily and now we are inseparable.

Knox is sitting on the ground under my tree house, playing around an ant hill with a stick. He’s been in a bad mood since he came out to play with me, making me think that his parents were fighting again. My friend always gets quiet and occupies himself with anything he can when his parents get like this. Most likely, his dad came home drunk again. It’s how the fighting usually starts and then Knox comes running over to my house.

Still not answering my question, I sit down beside him, and shove the handmade ring close to his face until he looks me in the eye with his light blue eyes. “Knox Hamilton, I asked you a question!” I smile sweetly, “Are you going to marry me or not?”

He slaps the ring out of my hand, “We are too young to get married, Aria!” I watch as the ring falls apart as it hits the ground. “Besides, you are my best friend, so I can’t marry you, silly.”

Standing back up, I put both my fists on my hips and glare down at my friend, “Why do you have to be so mean? It took me a long time to make that ring for you!” I feel the stinging in my eyes and I’m trying really hard not to let the boy before me see my tears, but I can’t hold back the tremble in my bottom lip. Before I break down completely, I turn around and run back to my house, slamming the door behind me.

I don’t stop running until I get to my bedroom. Throwing my little body onto my purple princess comforter that covers my bed, I squeeze my eyes closed and try my hardest not to cry. I’ve always been a bit emotional, but since becoming friends with Knox, I try to act tougher than I really am. I don’t want my friend seeing me cry or looking weak. I don’t want him thinking that I’m not tough enough to be his friend.

Once my eyes don’t sting anymore, I sit up on my bed and look towards my window that faces our backyard. Scooting my butt to the edge of the bed, I slide down to the floor and take the few steps over to the window. I

expect to see Knox still sitting under my tree house, but he isn’t. I can still see the indent in the grass from where he was sitting, but he’s nowhere to be found.

A few days later I kick the ground with my foot as I sit on a swing in our yard. It’s Saturday afternoon and I’m bored out of my mind. Usually, Knox and I are together all day long, but I haven’t seen him since I stomped off two days ago, after he threw my ring away. I don’t know what to do with myself without my best friend. There are no other kids in our neighborhood, which is why we became friends to begin with. So, I feel the loss of Knox’s company deeply and sulk by myself in the backyard.

The shuffling of feet draws my attention and I look up. Knox has his head down as he makes his way over to me. He stops right in front of me but doesn’t look up. The ground seems to be more interesting to him. Keeping his head down, he lifts his arm up before opening his little fist. There’s a circle of twine sitting in the palm of his hand.

“What is this?” I ask, trying to figure out what he’s up to.

“I’m sorry I ruined the ring you made me, Aria. I didn’t mean to.” His voice is barely above a whisper. “I made one for you and one for me.” He lifts his other hand to show me that he’s already wearing his.

I’m confused as to why he is acting so shy. It’s not like him. I take the ring of twine from his palm and slide it on the ring finger on my right hand. I take hold of his hand and give it a little tug. His dark head finally lifts and that’s when I see it. The black and blue bruising around the outside of his left eye isn’t hard to miss. Neither is my reaction which is why he holds up his hand to stop me from talking.

“Don’t say anything, Aria. I’m okay, it doesn’t even hurt.” He tries to give me the smirk that always makes me smile, but he fails miserably.

“What happened?” I don’t really need to ask because I already know. My best friend tried to protect his mom.

He shrugs, “You know how my old man gets. I wanted to try and put him in his place when he went after mom,” He touches the bruise and tries to hide the flinch, “but he caught me off guard.”

My friend always tries acting tough, but I know it’s just for show. “Knox, you are seven years old! How do you expect to beat up a grown up?” I’m not trying to make him sound like a wimp. He needs to know that he is too young to try and fight back like that.

“Whatever, I can take my old man, Aria. He just got in a lucky shot.” He kicks at the ground.

I don’t want to make him mad, so I change the subject. “Thank you for making me the ring, Knox.”

He shrugs again, “I owed it to you.” His blue eyes meet mine, “I was serious about us being too young, though. Maybe these can be promise rings for when we grow up.”

A big smile breaks out on my face, and I throw my hands around Knox’s neck, “You’re my best friend in the whole wide world and one day you will be my husband, Knox Hamilton!”

I fully expect him to push me away, because he’s usually not a hugger, but he surprises me when he hugs me back, squeezing me tightly. I’m not sure how long we stand there hugging each other. It doesn’t matter though because I have my best friend back.

When I go to let go, Knox holds me tighter. Before I can say anything, he whispers into my ear. His words stun me, but then another smile forms on my face. He finally steps away from me and shoves me in the shoulder, “Last one to the tree house is a rotten egg!” and he takes off, leaving me standing there, replaying his whispered words….

“You will always be my best friend, Aria, and one day I will make you my wife, and I will love you forever!”

(End Flashback)

When I opened my eyes again, I remember staring up at those beautiful light blue eyes from my past. And I decided at once that I had made the right decision. No matter whether it’s right or wrong; my choice led me to where I knew I belonged. It not only brought me to them, but it brought me back to HIM.

Chapter 2 - The Struggle is Real

Life is funny. You work so hard to make a good life and then one day it all gets ripped out from underneath of you. All you can do is rebuild, but again, life throws out curve balls, and you find yourself sinking deeper and deeper. This is my life. It hasn’t always been a struggle. My life used to be great. I had family who loved me unconditionally and I made friends everywhere I went. My best friend was always there for me no matter what, he was my rock...until he wasn’t. His parents split up and they moved away at the end of Knox’s junior year. I never heard from him again.

These days I am on my own, trying to make ends meet. College was a no go for me because I needed to work. At twenty-four, all I’ve been able to do is work low-paying jobs. After losing my father to a car accident my sophomore year of high school, I had to find work to help my mom pay the bills. My father’s life insurance policy didn’t pay out due to the insurance company believing that my father caused the crash on purpose. They believed him to be suicidal, but we all knew him better than that. My father would never take his life, or any other life for that matter. So, without the life insurance, it didn’t take long to go through my parent’s savings.

In the end, we ended up losing the house and had to sell most of our stuff. We found ourselves in a low-income apartment on the bad side of town. The side of town that anyone with a brain would stay far away from. Drug deals on every corner, shootings every other day, and I can’t forget the working girls who put themselves out there all day long trying to make a few dollars just so they can pay their pimp. It’s what dreams are made of…not.

Mom took up cleaning houses and was usually gone most of the day. I’d come home, change my clothes, and head over to the local grocery store for a few hours. By the time I get home, my mother was usually there with a little supper waiting for me. It was never much, but it kept me somewhat fed. After supper, I would do my homework and then go to bed just so I could do it all again the next

day. I didn’t have time for friends or hobbies. It was just my mom and me against the big cruel world.

Just over a year ago, mom was walking home from the train station and got caught up in a drive-by shooting. Two bullets struck her. One was just a shoulder wound, but the second pierced her head. She’s been in a coma ever since. In the beginning, the doctors said that there may be a slight chance that she could wake up, but lately they have been telling me that after all this time, she most likely won’t. I can’t let go…not yet. I’ve heard of people being in a coma for years and then one day they just wake up. My mom is all I have. People tend to disappear from my life, leaving me all alone. I’ve come to terms with that, I still have mom. She is still breathing, so I won’t give up.

The crowd is a little rowdy tonight at the dive that I bartend at. Sweaty bodies rub against each other as they try to get the attention of one of us serving the drinks. Kat called in tonight due to having a sick kid at home, so that leaves Dion and myself here to slay the rowdy beasts. Nobody has patience when it comes to getting drunk. The more they drink, the more demanding they are. What’s worse is when they think I will serve them faster if they flirt with me. If anything, I ignore them even when they are calling my name and waving their money around. I pick and choose how I earn my tips. I will not stoop that low as to flirt with just any average Joe.

Tonight’s live band was an extremely popular local band, who always brings in a great crowd. Unfortunately, it also brings in all the assholes that think they’re God’s gift to women. The cheesy pick-up lines that I’ve heard over the years could be made into a Book for Dummies…literally. I can’t even deal with half the idiots that think spending their hard-earned money at the bar, with shitty pick-up lines that will lead them to meeting a good woman that they can take home to their mama. At least not at this bar. The only thing they will pick up and take home is an STD.

Movement to my left as I’m pouring a whiskey and coke grabs my attention. I look up too late. All I see is the back side of some douchebag that just made off with my jar of tips. I try to run after the guy, but the crowd is too thick, and I end up getting shoved back behind the bar. I’m pissed. The night is almost over, and my jar was full of my hard-earned money. There goes at least a couple hundred bucks that I could have used to pay on some of my mom’s hospital bills. People are cruel. Those are the kind of people that have slowly drained me of my faith in the human race. I used to be happy and friendly with everyone. Now all I want to do is flip off anyone who tries to talk to me.

My boss, Frank, who has been hanging out in his back office, finally shows his face behind the bar. I glare at him briefly, before finishing up the whisky and coke, that I was working on before I got robbed. Frank wanders over to where I’m working and watches me work. The guy gives me the creeps, but he’s never tried anything with me, so I deal with it. After giving the customer their change, I turn back towards my boss, catching him staring at my ass. I can’t deal with this shit any more tonight.

I throw my hands up in the air, “I’m done for the night, Frank. I’m going home.” Shoving my way past him, I head toward the backroom where we keep our belongings during our shifts.

Frank follows closely on my heels, “It’s not two yet. Get your ass back out there!”

I swing around on him, “Who’s idea was it to have the Live band here tonight, huh?” I cross my arms, “You wanted them, and yet you sat your lazy ass back in your office while we got hammered!” His face turns red with anger, but I stop him from saying anything by putting my hand in his face, “My jar of tips got stolen tonight because we were too short-handed. I needed that money, Frank!”

Frank grabs my purse from the hanger and throws it at me, “You want to leave early? Fine, go ahead. I’ll mail you your last check!” He turns and walks away, not waiting for my response.

I stand there with my mouth open for a few seconds before the anger takes over. Before I realize what I’m doing, I find myself standing next to Frank behind the bar. Dion is trying to slip past me carrying a pitcher of beer. I grab the full pitcher and dump it over Frank’s head. Dion gasps and then laughter breaks out from the customers around the bar.

“Fuck you, Frank!” I spin and shove my way through the crowd, pushing anyone that gets in my way aside, until I burst through the door and into fresher air.

Sunlight filters in through the cracks around my window blinds. I roll over the other way as I groan, cursing at the morning for coming way too soon. Pulling the covers over my head to try and make it dark again for me to fall back to sleep, I kick my legs in a little tantrum when it doesn’t work. My body’s internal clock is telling me to get up before I’m late for work.

I throw the covers off me and stomp to the bathroom, grabbing my robe off its hook behind the door as I go. I turn the water on in the dingy bathtub before pulling the nozzle for the shower. The spray isn’t much but at least I can get clean. Standing under the weak shower spray, I think back to last night and curse. I lean my forehead against the cracked wall and just try to breathe. I needed that job. I don’t know why I let my anger get the best of me, especially in situations like that. I know I took it too far with the boss, and I would have done the same thing if the tables were turned, but I couldn’t help myself. After taking a few moments to just stand under the water and try to relax my body and mind, I shake it all off and continue with my shower. Before too long, I’m dressed and ready to head out to my next job.

Housekeeping is not my favorite job, but it does help pay the bills, and now I will have to either pick up some more houses to clean or get more hours at the diner that I work, at as well. Maybe it’s a good thing that I’m not bartending anymore. My schedule was a little hectic, and it’s not like the bar itself was a great establishment, but it did bring in good money at times.

The first house on my schedule is a nice elderly couple that my mom used to work for. They are sweet and always makes sure that I have a hearty breakfast before I start my work. The wife greets me as I walk in the back door as she scoops eggs onto a plate. She smiles her greeting and points to the chair at the table, indicating that I need to sit down. I learned not to argue with her over anything, because I will never win.

Once I finish the eggs, bacon, and toast, along with a glass of orange juice, I get to work on cleaning up the kitchen. I always bring along ear buds so I can listen to music while I clean. It makes the time go by faster and I feel as though I clean more thoroughly with the background noise. Moving from room to room, I quickly finish with the first house and move on to the next. I have four houses on my schedule for today and with any luck I’ll have a few hours to relax before I’m due to be at the diner.

Chapter 3 - Unwanted Attention

Working on my last house for the day, it’s the most nerve-wracking one. A married couple with three kids under the age of nine, and the wife has OCD. I know, why would anyone with OCD hire someone else to clean their house? I’ve already caught her recleaning a few areas that I’ve cleaned, but I’ve been working for them for the past two years, so I guess I’m still doing a decent job. The Morrison’s are good people, though, and they have always been really nice to me. Sometimes they ask me to babysit for them, but I always have to pass, because I don’t trust myself around little kids. I used to babysit all the time when I was in high school, but the way my attitude has changed over the years, I don’t want to take it out on any child. I like kids, although I doubt I will ever have any of my own. There’s no way I in hell I would want to bring an innocent child into this fucked up world.

When I’m done with the Morrison house, I say my goodbyes, and then head to the bus stop. I used to drive mom’s old Toyota, but it finally took a shit a few months back, and I have no money to fix it or get a new car. Besides, it’s cheaper taking the bus or walking. I don’t have to worry about gas prices or having the extra money to fix something when it breaks down. I enjoy walking, and when I do have to take the bus, I just keep my head down and mind my own business. Nobody ever bothers me this way and I don’t offend anyone by looking at them the wrong way. Keeping to myself has worked for me so far, no need to change things.

Before my mom got shot, she was always bugging me about getting out and hanging with friends or telling me that I need to start dating. Who has time for that when you’re trying to just get through life in one piece? My mom was my best friend for years. After Knox moved away and decided to never contact me again, I had a few close friends, but then we lost everything, my friends were included. So, it was always just mom and me. That is until the shooting.

I still think back on some of my younger days when I had a normal childhood. Knox and I were glued at the hip. I know he had it a little rougher with his home life, but I tried to make up for it by always being there for him. I always thought that we would be friends forever. I still remember the words he whispered to me all those years ago. I look down at the twine that I still wear around my right ring finger. It is not the same exact one, I outgrew that one, but I made myself a new one, keeping the original in an old jewelry box at home. I am not sure why I continue wearing it, when I haven’t seen him in about eight years. Maybe it is just to remind me that there are good people in this world, even if they can only stay for a little while. I had ten years with my best friend, and I will always cherish that time that we had together. Sometimes those memories are what helps me get through the lonely times.

My thoughts are interrupted when the bus pulls up to the stop. I greet the old driver with a smile as usual and walk to the back of the bus. It is always less crowded in the back, and I can take a quick fifteen-minute nap before I get to where I’m going. I sink down into my seat, and just before I close my eyes, I see a familiar pair of light blue eyes. I blink quick, but the person has already gotten into the parked car across the street. I shake my head and chuckle to myself. It was only my imagination. A lot of people have light blue eyes. Besides, the guy I saw was over six foot and looked mean. I cannot imagine my old friend growing to be that big, or that mean-looking. I relax back into my seat and close my eyes. Memories taking me back to when I once was happy.

Walking into the hospital that my mom is at is depressing. It is not the new big one on the other side of the city, that one is for the people who have money. No, mom’s hospital is rundown and in need of new equipment, but it is cheaper. Most of the staff are nice and they seem to know what they are doing, but they aren’t paid as well as the hoity toity docs at the new hospital. As long as my mom gets the care that she needs, I’m okay with it.

“Hey Mama, it’s a beautiful day outside!” I say cheerfully, as I walk into her room. I don’t expect a response, but I like to think that she can hear me, so I always try to sound happy. I drag the chair over to the side of her bed and take her hand. For the next hour I sit and chat away, telling her make believe stories about how my life is going. I don’t know if she will ever wake up, but I don’t want her hearing how sad my life is and making her feel bad about it. So, I lie.

Just as I am getting ready to leave, her doctor walks into her room. “Ah, Aria! I am glad I caught you. Do you have a minute?” He asks, hopefully.

Dr. Hildreth is a good-looking guy in his mid-thirties, unmarried, and no kids. He is one of the nicest guys I have ever met and has a big heart. He has hinted around about meeting up outside the hospital a few times, but I am not interested in him that way. I don’t have time for guys, and I really don’t want to ruin his soft-hearted nature with my blackened heart.

I answer his question with a slight nod before stepping outside of my mom’s room. “What did you want to talk to me about, Dr, Hildreth?”

He grins, “I’ve told you that you can call me Steffen. No need to be so formal.”

I grit my teeth but continue to be nice, “Oh yes, I forget. What did you want to talk to me about, Steffen?”

Me using his name must really make him happy because he gives me the biggest smile, flashing his straight, white teeth at me. “Well, I thought maybe we could get a cup of coffee and go over your mother’s care.”

He sounds very hopeful that I am going to say yes, so it doesn’t give me any pleasure to know that I’m going to disappoint him once more. “I’m sorry, Steffen, but I’m terribly busy. I need to head to the diner for my next shift.” I try to sound like I am really sorry, but I don’t know if he buys it.

The sad smile he gives me almost breaks my heart, but he seriously needs to give up. He waves his hand back and forth between us, “Of course you’re busy. I should have known better.” Tucking his hands in his pockets, he continues, “I just wanted to discuss your mother’s options again.”

I know exactly where this is going to lead to, so I hold my hand up, “Steffen, I’m not taking her off life support yet. I have already told you this many times. It hasn’t been that long, and you said yourself that there is a possibility that she will wake up.”

“That was over a year ago, Aria.” He looks sad, “The chances have slimmed since then, and to be honest, I don’t think she is going to wake up.” He then pulls her medical chart out of its slot on the wall by her door

and flips through a few pages, “Her last scan shows that there has been no improvement. I’m sorry.”

Instead of standing there and listening to what he is trying to tell me, I turn and start to walk away. I hear him call my name but all I do is raise my hand in farewell, and walk through the double doors, leaving Steffen standing outside my mom’s room shaking his head.

I make it to the diner with ten minutes to spare before my shift starts. Patty and Beth are finishing with the dinner rush but they both wave and smile at me as I make my way back to the employee breakroom. There are only three servers and one night cook. Patrick is both owner and day shift cook, and one of the best bosses that I have ever worked for. I rotate shifts with Patty and Beth throughout the week, so we can all have the opportunity to make generous tips during the rush hours. Tonight is my turn to have the more laid-back shift. Not too many customers come in during the night shift unless it is the weekend.

Bobby, the night shift cook greets me with a fist bump on my way back to the front. I really like working here, but only because of the awesome crew. It helps the time go by faster, no matter how dead it is. Even Patrick is fun to work with. He is only in his late thirties, so he tries so hard to remain cool with the rest of us. It is kind of cute in a way.

Tying my apron around my waist, I wait until Patty and Beth are finished counting the register and refilling the condiments on the tables. Once they are done, they throw their aprons into the dirty bin and clock out. That is my cue to clock myself in and take a few minutes to catch up with the girls before they leave me on my own. This crew is the closest thing to friends that I have, but I still keep them all at a distance. I feel it is best this way; no need to have more heartbreak when they decide to leave my life like everyone else.

Chapter 4 - An Unexpected Invite

It’s Friday. Most normal people would wake up and be happy because it is the end of the work week. Not for this girl. I groan as my alarm starts blaring beside me. It takes me three tries to shut the damn thing off. Finally, I yank the plug out of the wall and the noise stops. It was a late night at the diner after some high schoolers came in and decided to have a food fight. They were sneaky little bastards, being quiet, so they would not get caught. By the time I made my way over to them with their ticket, it had looked like a war zone. I don’t think any of them actually ate. I made them pay and then kicked them out. Lucky for me, Bobby offered to help me clean it up once his kitchen was in order. We were finally locking up by two in the morning.

Since it is Friday, the diner stays open until the wee hours of the morning, so the bar patrons can come in for their greasy food cravings. I offered to take Beth’s night shift so she could go out on a date with Erik, a guy she met on one of those dating sites. I think that’s what his name is; maybe it is Eli or Eddie. It’s something that starts with an E, anyway. She has been going on about needing to get laid for the last few weeks, so I’m crossing my fingers and hopefully Eli, or whoever, will help the poor girl out. Either way, I am working a double shift at the diner, and I have a few houses to clean beforehand.

It is barely even light outside, but I know that if I don’t get up now and shower, I won’t have time for my two cups of coffee. Believe me, nobody wants to deal with Aria Kramer without her second cup of Joe! Dragging myself out of bed, I’m like a zombie as I walk over to my dresser for clothes. I live alone, so I can technically walk around naked if I wanted to, but I always keep the thermostat at sixty degrees to help save on the bill. I have tried getting out of the shower and walking to my room without any clothes on. By the time I get to my room I can cut glass with my nipples, and I hate being cold like that.

I reach in to turn the shower on, but nothing comes out. “Great. Just fucking great!” I turn toward the sink and turn those nobs and still nothing. “Seriously? Can I not get a stinking break, already?” I shout up at the ceiling, not really knowing who I am yelling at. I know I paid my bill, which means the POS Manager isn’t doing his job. The profanity running through my head right now would make the devil himself blush. I guess it’s foolish to ask for just one thing to go my way. This right here is another example as to why I don’t depend on anyone else.

“Well, a whore’s bath it is then!” I say aloud as I grab the package of flushable wipes. Throwing my hair up into a messy bun, I pull a few wipes out and start washing my body down. Since I have a little extra time by not showering, I will use that extra time to hunt down the Manager and demand that he fixes the plumbing problem by tonight. Not that he will listen, but I can try anyway.

I pour myself a cup of coffee and go back to throw on some mascara and a little lip gloss. There is absolutely no sense in piling on makeup just to clean and serve food. I will sweat it off anyway. Looking at my reflection, I admit that one of the things I have going for me is that I have flawless skin. My skin coloring has just enough pigment to look like I tan, but it’s all natural. Then there are my eyes. I have never really seen an eye color like my own; they are a blue-violet color. The wavy, raven locks and long, dark lashes that I have, make my eyes stand out more. I’ve tried changing my hair color, but nothing else looks good on me. Although, I did try a purple in my hair when I was eighteen, and I really liked that one. Probably because it matched the violet in my eyes, but that phase didn’t last long.

Rushing out the door, not watching where I’m going, I slam into someone walking by my door. “Oh! I am so sorry!” I glance up, and for once, luck is on my side. The Manager is glaring at me, but I completely ignore the look. “Mr. Sanders! I was just coming to look for you.”

“Oh really?” He salaciously licks his lips while looks me up and down, “What can I do for you this morning, Miss Kramer?”

‘Ew…gross, dude’ I think to myself. I put a fake smile on and address the issue, “Mr. Sanders, I was not able to shower this morning due to not having water.” I know what he is about to say, so I quickly continue, “I am caught up on all my bills, so I know that this is an in-house problem. If you could please have the plumbing checked out, and hopefully working by tonight, I would be so grateful.” I give him just a little bit of a flirtatious smile to sweeten the pot.

A pink tinge creeps into his face and he smiles, “Of course, Miss Kramer. I will look into it right away. I am so sorry for any inconvenience.” He takes a slight step toward me, “If it makes you feel any better, you still look ravishing this morning.”

As his eyes start to roam down my body once again, I turn around and rush down the hall, “You are too kind, Mr. Sanders. Thank you!” I don’t slow down until I’m outside the apartment complex. I take a moment to shudder and be grossed out before I rush off to the bus stop. I make it there with no time to spare. Hurrying up the steps, I make my way to my usual seat. When I glance out the window, I see the same guy as I saw last time; the one I thought could have been Knox. My heart saddens a bit again for the loss of that friendship, but I soon put it out of my mind since there is nothing that I can do about it.

The rest of my morning goes pretty well, until I get to my last cleaning job at the Morrison’s. I use the code that they gave me to get in through the back door as usual. With my ear buds in and my music blaring, I walk over to the utility closet and pull out the cleaning cart with everything that I will need to get the job done. I feel like I should work at a hotel or something. It’s not like I can take the cart up the stairs, so it is kind of pointless if you ask me. None of my other houses have a cart; they have baskets with handles, and different compartments for each item, and it is so much easier to handle, but whatever.

I always start with the upstairs and work my way down because I find it a little easier. Alicia Keys’ song, Girl on Fire, starts playing in my ears, and I bob my head to it while I’m looking the supplies over to make sure nothing needs restocking. Once I’m sure that all is stocked, I make my way through the kitchen. Just as I turn the corner to the living room, the chorus starts and I can’t help but belt out the lyrics, “THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE…”

Never have I ever screamed as loud as I do now, while jumping back and knocking the whole cleaning cart over. The house is supposed to be empty, but apparently the owners must have forgotten that I come in on Fridays. I’m sure they weren’t expecting me to find Mrs. Morrison to be bent over the couch with Mr. Morrison thrusting his hips behind her.

“Oh, my God!” I cover my eyes with my hand, “I am so sorry! I didn’t hear…shit!” I don’t even know what to say. I pull my ear buds out right away. My heart is pounding a mile a minute and I am so freaking embarrassed.

“It’s quite alright,” I hear Mrs. Morrison pants, “We completely lost track of time, didn’t we honey?”

I pull my hand away and glance over at the couple, but they’re still naked, so I quickly look away. “Um, I will just go ahead and start upstairs then.” What else am I supposed to say?

“You got some lungs on you, Aria.” Mr. Morrison chuckles, “You scared the shit out of us!” He is still just standing there, as naked as the day he was born, and obviously not caring.

“I apo-apologize for scaring you.” I stutter as I make my way toward the staircase.

Mrs. Morrison giggles, “No worries, sweetie.” She clears her throat, “Uh, would you like to join us?”

Her offer blows me away. What the hell? Who were these people? How do I even answer that question? Think Aria, think! They are nice people, and I really need to keep this job, but there is no way I’m joining whatever it is they want me to join.

I smile without looking over at them, “Uh, thanks for asking, but I better get my work done. I have a busy day ahead of me.” I grab the items I need for upstairs and start up the steps as normal as I can.

“Oh, that’s okay dear. Maybe another time, then.” Mrs. Morrison responds. I can hear the disappointment in her voice, but I really do not care. Yuck. How do I get this whole incident out of my head? All I see is Mr. Morrison’s ass moving back and forth before he jumps at my voice. I do chuckle a bit remembering the part where he jumps back with his arm flailing out. Not gonna lie though, Mr. Morrison has a very nice backside.

Chapter 5 - Service With A Smile

After the morning I had, keeping my mind off the disturbing images that are now permanently in my head, is actually not so hard while working the diner. The lunch hour rush was a doozie and now we are heading into the dinner rush. My co-workers got a good laugh at my disastrous morning, and every so often they break out to the Girl on Fire chorus. Why I thought it was a clever idea to tell Patrick and Patty about it is beyond me. I definitely won’t be making that mistake when Bobby comes on shift.

“Table nine’s order is up!” Patrick yells from behind the counter.

That’s me. I grab a tray and load the four plates on top of it. When I get to the table, I carefully unload the tray. I almost wear the last plate of mac and cheese when the toddler tries standing up on the bench and hits the tray. Luckily, I have been waitressing for years and can handle an out-of-control tray. It doesn’t make me any less annoyed, though. I just put on a smile, and say, “It’s okay, kids will be kids,” rub their head and walk away, hoping they do not see me grimace as soon as I turn around.

I notice another table in my section has two new customers, so I quickly fill a couple of glasses with ice water and grab some menus. As I near the table, I notice the occupants are a couple of guys. The closer I get, the more I notice how good-looking they both are. Both look to be my age or a little older. The guy on my left has dark hair that is cut and styled into one of those faux hawks. He’s got a piercing in his right eyebrow, and when he turns his head towards me, I notice a ring in his left lower lip. The spider web tattoo that stretches from the top of his neck down to below his shirt’s neckline is a little creepy, but sexy at the same time. He's got dark gray eyes, and they are staring straight at me. The guy is extremely attractive in a dark and sexy sort of way but looks scary as hell.

His friend on my right looks way more approachable. I roll my eyes at his man bun, but as I get to the table, I see that it actually works for him. This guy is gorgeous! I can tell that he’s a bit taller than his friend, and where Mr. Faux Hawk is dark, Mr. Man Bun is light with his sandy blonde hair, that’s shaved from the middle of his head, all the way down; keeping the top long enough for said bun. His caramel-colored eyes light up when he sees me approach their table.

“Well, hello, beautiful!” Man Bun says as he smiles.

I’m sure I am blushing just a tad bit, “Hi. I’m Aria, and I will be your server. Can I get you guys something to drink?” I look between the two as I set down the water glasses and menus.

“Are you on the menu?” Faux Hawk surprises me with his question. I glance his way, and I think I just wet my panties. Mr. Dark and Sexy just cranked up the heat with his smile.

Smiling, I pull out my order pad, “Sorry, I…” I’m cut off by Man Bun.

“Come on, man. This is a diner. They don’t sell that kind of delicacy here.” The gorgeous guy rakes his eyes down my body.

I don’t know why, but when Mr. Sanders did that to me this morning, it made me want to vomit. Mr. Man Bun just used a cheesy line and checked me out, but all I want to do now is go take a cold shower. Weird. I already turned down one threesome today, but I don’t think I would turn one down if these two are involved.

‘Damn…down girl!’ I lecture myself.

I finally get their drink and food orders and I hurry away to the back. I toss the ticket to Patrick as I zoom past him, “I’m headed to the restroom!” I call over my shoulder.

The restroom door slams shut behind me, and I turn the lock, barricading myself in. With my back against the door, I slide down until I’m sitting on the floor. “Holy hell!” I gasp aloud. I can feel my nether regions tingle just thinking about the two guys. This has never happened before. Sitting on the floor, I pull myself together before I try standing back up. Icy water is what I need, so I walk over and turn the faucet on, splashing the cool water over my cheeks and forehead. Once I feel cooled down enough, I shut the water off and reach over, tearing the paper towels from the dispenser.

I take a deep breath as I look at my reflection in the big oval mirror over the sink, “You got this, Aria. They are only people.” I sigh, “Hot people, but still people. Maybe you should finally loose that cherry of yours, so you don’t get all hot and bothered whenever you see a hot guy.” Giggling at my own actions, I toss the damp paper towels into the garbage, take a deep breath, and head back to the front.

Patrick raises a brow at me as I walk past him, but he doesn’t say anything, and neither do I. Checking on table nine to make sure they are not needing anything, I quickly glance over at the guys. Thankfully, they seem to be in a deep conversation, so they don’t see me looking at them. It isn’t until I’m bringing their orders out to their table that my pulse starts to race once more. I put on a smile as I approach, receiving big smiles back from both men.

“Fettuccine Alfredo for you,” I place the warm plate in front of Man Bun, and then turn to Faux Hawk, “and our famous Club sandwich and house fries for you.” I manage to set both plates down without my hands shaking, “Can I get you gentlemen anything else at the moment?” I glance back and forth between the two, waiting for a response; a smile still plastered to my face.

Man Bun looks me up and down before responding, “Not at the moment.” He winks at me, making me blush before looking over at his friend. All Faux Hawk does is smirk at me, but it feels like he is trying to convey something that I’m just not understanding.

“Okay then, enjoy! I’ll check back in after a bit.” I turn and quickly take my leave.

The guys stay all through the rush hour, but never ask for anything else. I continue refilling their glasses the whole time they are here, and I keep catching them watching me at times when I am helping other customers. Now that I can breathe, I glance back over to their table and see that they are gone. ‘Great, they dined and dashed!’ I think to myself because I never brought them their ticket. I head over to the now empty table to start clearing. When I lift Man Bun’s plate, there is a folded napkin underneath it. Just thinking it is a dirty napkin, I swipe it up. Money falls back to the table, and when I look down, my eyes widen in disbelief. There are three crisp one-hundred-dollar bills staring back at me. My mouth just hangs open. I look at the napkin in my hand to make sure there isn’t anything else, not that I am being greedy, but I don’t want to throw away money if there is more. Unfolding the napkin, I see writing, so I carefully flatten out the napkin so I can read what it says.

'Thank you for the wonderful service you provided.

We look forward to you serving us in the future!'

M & J

My eyes go back and forth between the note and the money. I am completely speechless. Not quite knowing what I’m supposed to do in this situation, I head to the kitchen to talk to my boss. After grilling me about my earlier actions, Patrick finally smiles and tells me to pay their ticket off and pocket the rest as my tip. I’m so grateful to these two strangers. Their tip just made up for the tips I lost at the bar. My eyes begin to sting, but I hold in the tears. I guess there are good people out there after all.

An hour before closing time, a couple of women walk in all dressed up. I grab water and menus and head over to their table. They don’t seem drunk, but they must have been at some kind of function that serves alcohol, because I can smell the sweet scent of wine, a Moscato perhaps. Their clothing is also a little too sophisticated for a night out at a bar. Both are women are too wrapped up in their conversation to notice me standing here, but I don’t want to interrupt them, either. I’m not trying to listen in on their private conversation, but I can’t help catching a few words like, new girls, auction, great night, and lastly, rich men. My curiosity has now been aroused, but all of a sudden, they notice me standing here.

“Just fresh coffee please and keep it coming.” One of the women smiles up at me.

“Same here.” The other woman says, as she looks me up and down with interest.

“Two fresh coffees coming right up.” I smile and leave the two to continue with their conversation.

I have always prided myself in minding my own business, but for some reason, the words I heard come out of the women’s mouth really interest me. It takes a lot for me to keep away and give them their privacy. It is only when it’s fifteen minutes to closing, that I go over and start to wipe down the tables near the one that the women are occupying. Disappointment washes over me as I hear them talking about fashion. Oh well, that’s what I get for trying to be nosey.

I am wiping down the table right beside them when they decide that it’s time to leave. I glance over at them and thank them for stopping in, after I see them hold up cash and then lay it on the table. I catch the one that was looking me up and down when they first came in doing it once more, making me feel just a bit self-conscious, but then she walks over to me and holds up a business card.

“If you are ever in need of extra cash, call me.” She winks and then places the card on the table right in front of me.

“Thank you.” It’s all I can think to say to the woman as confusion sets in.

I watch them as they walk out of the diner. The same woman who gave me the card glances through the window at me once more before they both disappear from sight. Picking up the card, I examine both front and back. The only writing on it is a woman’s name and phone number. ‘Hmm, that’s weird.’ I think to myself and then shrug, sliding the card into the back pocket of my jeans.

Chapter 6 - An Admirer

Of all the days for it to rain, it had to pick my only day off. I usually work at the diner on Sundays, but Patrick closed it down for the day, due to the flu hitting three of the five workers at the diner, himself included. As much as I need the money, the time off is much needed, as well. I have been running myself rugged and need a little reprieve. I allow myself to sleep in until ten in the morning, and then I drag myself out of bed just to sit in front of the television for a few hours, drinking coffee and eating Cocoa Puffs out of the box.

By one o’clock the rain has slowed to a drizzle, and I make the decision to visit my mom. Maybe I’ll get lucky and Dr. Hildreth will have a day off. Just once I would like to visit my mother without him accosting me about taking her off life support. I am so thankful that Mr. Sanders fixed the plumbing by the time I got home early Saturday morning. I make quick work washing my body and hair. I do spare a few minutes to shave my legs and lady bits, which were really needing it, after not doing it in over a week. Once I’m done, I dry myself off and step out to lotion up and get dressed. Applying only a little mascara and lip gloss, I throw my mass of wavy hair into a high ponytail and call it good. Looking in the full-length mirror to make sure I at least look put together enough, I grab my jacket and leave my tiny apartment, locking my door behind me.

Jogging to the bus stop, I am relieved to see that there is only one other person waiting for the bus, so I am able to duck into the small seating area to get out of the drizzle. The other occupant sitting on the bench is an elderly woman with a cane. She smiles up at me as I enter and pats the seat beside her without saying anything. Smiling back, I take the offered seat and we sit there in silence until the bus arrives. The woman struggles a little to stand up, so I gently help her to stand, and we make our way to the bus. I stand behind her while she climbs the steps, just in case she needs more help, but she’s able to get herself up into the bus and into one of the front seats. As I pass her to head back to my usual seat, she catches my wrist, drawing my attention down to her.

“Thank you for all your help, dear. You are too kind.” She smiles sadly, “I wish there were more people like you in this world.”

I pat her frail hand and smile back, “You’re welcome.” I’m not used to people showing me gratitude, so I don’t really know what else to say. The woman nods and releases my wrist, letting me continue to the back of the bus.

Aside from the normal beeping coming from the machines, all is quiet as I step off the elevator onto the floor that my mother’s hospital room is on. The desk nurse looks up and gives me a warm smile as I pass. I return the smile and keep going. If there are any concerns with my mom then she would have stopped me and went over whatever it is, so I’m relieved that she did not call me over. The whole staff knows my feelings on letting my mom go, so most regard me with sympathy and smile, while a few others think I’m being selfish, and they try to avoid me as much as possible.

Being only five foot three inches tall, I have to stand on my tippy toes to look through the window on the door, to make sure no one else is in the room with my mother. I do not like disturbing the doctors or nurses when they are in doing their rounds. Slowly pushing the door open, I creep inside the room as though my mom is only sleeping, and I do not want to wake her. It has been a habit of mine ever since she was admitted here. I walk over to the chair that I always sit in and bring it to her bedside. Just as I’m about to sit down, I notice a bouquet of flowers on her nightstand. I reach over and remove the card from its holder so I can see who they are from. I am the only one that has ever brought flowers to my mom. My forehead creases as I read the card…

You are missed!

My thoughts and prayers

are with you!

‘Who could have sent this?’ I think to myself. “Do you have an admirer, mom?” I ask her jokingly.

It doesn’t matter. It makes me happy knowing that there is someone out there that is thinking of my mother. A warm feeling comes over me at the thought, and I look down at my hands absently, as I twirl the piece of twine around my finger. Not knowing why I’m choosing this moment to think of Knox, but it helps to give me peace and calms the little bit of anxiety from not knowing who sent my mom the flowers. That’s what Knox always did for me. He calmed me when I needed it and brought peace when there was chaos. I really wish that he were still in my life. I could use his presence during these dark times.

Placing the card back in its holder, I sit back and begin to recount everything that has happened since I last visited. Laughing as I give a play by play of the fiasco at the Morrison’s house on Friday. It’s laughable now but horrifying at the time it took place. I know mom would find it amusing and I hope that she can hear me and is laughing on the inside. I let my laugh fizzle away when reality starts rushing in.

I grab her soft hand and bring it to my lips to kiss, “Oh, mom, it’s so hard. I need you so much. Please, please wake up soon!” A single tear rolls down my cheek, “I’m not going to lie, mama, I’m scared. I feel all alone, no matter how many people I’m around each day, it doesn’t chase away the loneliness inside.” I swipe the tear off my face, “I don’t know how much I can go on like this. I am wearing myself out, so you need to wake up. Do you hear me? It's not time for you to go, and I won’t give up on you!” The last breaks me, and the flood gates open. I sit there for a while just letting it all out, until there is nothing left.

The sky is beginning to darken, so I look at the time. Not realizing how long I have been sitting here, I give my mom back her hand and stand up, stretching the kinks out of my muscles. Putting the chair back into its place, I lean in and kiss my mom goodbye. I sneak out the same way I sneak in, very quietly. The same nurse is at the front desk, so I stop to inquire about the flowers. Unfortunately, a flower shop delivered them, so there is no way of knowing who sent them. Sighing, I head to the elevator and hit the down button.

It has been two days since the diner has been shut down, and I just received a text from Patrick that we will be closed tomorrow as well. Apparently, it’s a really bad virus, and now Beth has it too. I am beginning to freak out because I need that pay that I’m missing out on. I guess I can go on social media and put an ad up that I am looking for housekeeping work, but that isn’t reliable. I check my bank account on the mobile app and feel my stomach drop. There is less than two hundred in my account and rent is due next week, along with my electric and water bill. The tip money I got from Man Bun and Faux Hawk went straight to the hospital bill. Losing the job at the bar was irresponsible of me! I do not know what I’m going to do!

I toss my phone on the couch and grab the dirty laundry, “Pretty soon I’ll have to wash these by hand because I’ll need the money.” I mumble aloud. I make sure I have my house key and then head downstairs to the basement where the laundry room is. I hate coming down here because it is so creepy. A single bulb that hangs down from the middle of the ceiling is the only lighting. It’s not even an LED one, at least those are a little brighter than the cheap ones the manager uses. Trying to hurry so I can get out of here, I throw all my clothes in one of the machines and insert the coins. Just as I’m about to start it, I remember that I didn’t empty out my pockets. Frustration runs through me as I rummage through every item of clothing. The only thing I find is an empty gum wrapper, which is weird because I don’t even remember the last time I chewed gum, and the business card the customer from the diner gave to me. Shutting the machine door once more, I start it and then sprint all the way upstairs, and to think that I have to go back down there two more times.

Chapter 7 - Scarlett's Treasures

Back in my apartment, I let myself drop to the couch face first, “Ouch!” I fumble under my hip and produce my phone. I just lay here in the silent space listening to the traffic outside. A clock is ticking somewhere, not in my apartment, but in a neighbor’s. That is how thin these walls are. There is a cat fight going on somewhere down the street, and a baby crying somewhere. “I hear you, kiddo. I feel the same way.”

I realize that I am still holding the card in my hand, so I turn it over and examine it. It is matte black, but the name Scarlett is written in the middle of the card with a phone number below, all in a glossy blood red color. It is sexy in kind of a dark way. I remember the woman telling me that if I ever needed extra cash that I should contact her. I debate on whether or not I should call the number. What if she’s a loan shark? I can’t afford to pay any kind of money back. I can’t do anything illegal either, like sell drugs or be a mule. I shiver at the latter. No way is anyone putting drugs into my body! Then I think it could be legit like an assistant job or running errands. “Seriously, Aria, you watch way too many crime shows.”

Before I can chicken out, I dial the number listed on the card. It rings twice before a woman’s voice answers, “Hello?”

I think I was hoping that nobody would answer, but they did and all I want to do is hang up. ‘Shit, my number probably popped up on the caller id!’ I think to myself.

“H-hello. Is this Scarlett?” I ask timidly.

“Yes, it is. Whom may I ask, is calling?” she inquires.

“It’s Aria. Aria from the diner.” I don’t know if that is enough for her to go off of, “From Friday night, or I should say early Saturday morning. You came in for coffee with another woman and gave me your card before you left.”

I hear her throaty laugh, “Yes, of course! I was hoping you would call.”

“You were?” I ask surprised.

“Yes. You are exactly what we like to look for.” She muses.

“I see. May I ask what it is that you do?”

“I own an auction house.” She states and then quickly continues without letting me say another word, “We have auctions every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Why don’t you stop in, say eight tomorrow night, and I can show you around and get you settled. Ill text the address to this phone number, okay?”

“Well…” I’m cut off once again.

“Can’t wait to see you! Bye, now.” The line goes dead.

That was the weirdest phone call I’ve ever had. I’m not sure if I even want to check this job out. My phone pings with an incoming text from the number I just called. Opening the text, I read the address that Scarlett sent. There isn’t a name, just an address, so I decide to g****e it. The address pops up as a business called Scarlett’s Treasures. The building looks pretty decent, and it has a five-star rating. I go in to read the reviews to see if I can get a better picture of what she sells. All I can tell is that the buyers seem to be extremely happy with their treasures and that they highly recommend Scarlett’s Treasures for all your unique and personal tastes.’

“Hmm, seems legit enough to me.” I shrug, “What’s the worst that will happen? I get there and decide it’s not for me? I don’t see a problem with checking it out.”

Making up my mind, I reply to Scarlett with a quick question.

Me: Is there a special dress code?

Scarlett: We will provide your attire for the evening. Just come in whatever you like.

Me: Okay. See you tomorrow at 8pm.

She doesn’t respond after my last text, but that’s okay, my question was answered. Now that it’s settled, I feel a little bit better. I should finish my laundry and then head to bed early, since I have houses to clean in the morning. I also need to run over to the bar and find out why I haven’t received my last check yet. Frank better not fuck me over. I need that money and I will get it one way or another!

Monday morning came and went with no mishaps while cleaning houses, thank God. I also didn’t have to face the Morrison’s because no one was home while I was there. They were my last house for today and relief washed over me as I locked up as I was leaving. Now, I’m headed somewhere that I don’t really want to go, but I have no choice.

Kat is behind the bar when I walk in, and she gives me a small smile. I liked Kat, but she was always calling in saying her kids were sick. A few of those times I caught her lying about it but never called her out on it. Usually she is very talkative and would start talking my ear off as soon as I walked in. It is a good sign that Frank is here if she is containing herself.

Just to confirm, I point toward the back, “Is Frank in his office?”

Nodding her head, “Yes, but I’m warning you now that he isn’t in a very good mood.” She smirks, “Apparently, one of his bartenders walked out on him, and he can’t find anybody to replace her.”

And there it is! I knew it was only a matter of time before she brought it up. I figured he would lie about what happened. Rolling my eyes, I head straight back to his office. I see that the door to his office is open a crack, so I just push it open all the way and walk in. He doesn’t even look up to see who came in uninvited. I wait until he does finally look up. He does a double take.

“What the fuck are you doing here?” He leans back into his chair, “Do you plan on begging for your job back?”

I want to slap the smirk off his face, “Actually, no. I came because I have yet to receive my check in the mail.” I cross my arms over my chest, “you know, like you said you would.”

“Did I now? Well, I guess it slipped my mind. I’ll get one in the mail right away.” He sneers at me.

Now I’m pissed! I place my hands on his desk and lean in, “No. You will get your checkbook out right now and write me a fucking check for the hours that I worked!”

“How dare you talk to me like that in my own establishment?” His face is turning red with anger.

“How dare you think that you can get away with not paying for a week’s worth of work?” I continue before he can say anything, “How about I get the cops involved. Let them know about your little side hustle that you have going on back here?”

His eyes widen, “I don’t know what you’re talking about! Get the fuck out of my office!”

“Okay,” I pull my phone out of my back pocket, “I will just call them now and wait here until they come. You know, so you don’t try and get rid of the evidence from your illegal bookie side hustle.”

He jumps up, “Okay, okay! I have your check,” He reaches into his desk drawer and brings out an envelope, “it’s right here. I swear, I was going to mail it. I really did forget.”

Yanking the envelope from his hand, I open it to make sure he didn’t cheat me out of any money. I nod when I see that it’s the correct amount, and then turn to leave. Frank calls out to me before I make it out the door.

“Aria, you wouldn’t want to have your job back, would you?” His tone sounds hopeful.

Blinking in disbelief at the audacity this guy has, I chuckle, “I will have to think about it, but most likely not.” I walk out without another word. I hear him call out that I am to call him if I change my mind. As much as I need this job, it isn’t worth the headache. Not unless it’s my last option.

Chapter 8 - Can't Do It

The bus drops me off a block away from Scarlett’s Treasures at seven-thirty, so I have plenty of time to walk to the auction house and calm my nerves. I don’t know why I am so nervous. I have started new jobs plenty of times in my life. This one should be no different. Maybe it is the unknown part of it. Scarlett wasn’t clear on the phone what the job details are, so I would think anybody would be nervous in my position.

The building comes into view. It looks a lot nicer than it did when I googled it. It looks like a really big warehouse except it’s made of brown stone. There doesn’t seem to be any windows in the front of the building, and there is no signage. There are quite a few cars in the parking lot, though, so that can be a good sign, I guess. I see one door at the front of the building, and there is a huge guy with a bald head standing by it, as though he is guarding it. When I walk up to the door, he literally puts his hand up to stop me. I look down at his hand that is pressed against my chest.

“Uh, excuse me. Can you please remove your hand?” I ask in the nicest way possible.

He doesn’t seem bothered by the fact that he is practically groping me. He even ignores my request. Raising his other hand, he brings a radio up to his mouth, “Miss Scarlett, there is a woman here by the name of…” he raises his brow at me in question.

“Aria Kramer.” I respond, rolling my eyes.

“Aria Kramer, who is trying to come inside.” He holds the radio closer to his ear, but when a woman’s voice comes over the speaker, “I’ll be there in a moment,” it is loud enough for anyone in a fifty-foot radius to hear. Baldy pulls it away from his ear quick, and I snicker. ‘Serves him right!’ I say to myself.

The door opens a few minutes later and Scarlett materializes from the darkness within. She smiles at me and gives me an unexpected hug. “I’m so happy that you made it tonight! Come with me, sweetie, and I will show you around.” She takes my hand and pulls me through the door and into the darkness beyond.

I mean it literally. Beyond the door it is pitch black until she opens another door. We step into a hallway with multiple doors. Black carpet covers the floor and helps make the purple walls pop. I’m thinking that these are strange colors for an auction house, but I guess I’m not the owner, so I shouldn’t judge. We don’t stop until we come to a wide doorway closed off by black curtains.

“This is where the auction block is, or stage as some people call it. This is where our treasures get auctioned off.” She pulls the curtain aside, giving a glimpse of what looks like a shiny black stage, with lights that are in the front, facing the back of the stage. I can hear talking on the other side of another curtain that is closing off the front of the stage. I am assuming that they are the buyers for tonight’s auction.

“Um, so where are the items that are getting auctioned off kept?” I look around, “Is that what I’ll be doing tonight? Bringing the items to the stage?”

Scarlett chuckles, “Oh dear, they are going to love you!” Taking hold of my hand once more, she pulls me back down the hallway, “We need to get you properly dressed before the auction starts. We don’t have much time.” I am pulled through one of the doors in the hallway and told to sit at the vanity. Scarlett tosses material at me, “This will be your attire for tonight.” She stands in front of me and places a hand on her hip, “Tell me Aria, are you a virgin?”

Scarlett asks me just as I start to hold up the material that she gave me, and I stare at her in shock. “W-what does that have to do with anything?”

The woman stares in amusement at me, “So we know what to start the bidding off at, silly girl.”

Confused, I ask another question, “What item are they bidding on and what does it have to do with whether or not I’m a virgin?”

“Aria,” there is an annoyed tone to her voice now, “They are bidding on you. You are the treasure that will be standing on the auction block.” Her eyes roll as she explains all this to me, “Bidding for a virgin always starts at five hundred thousand dollars, and you stay with them for a month. Bidding for non-virgins starts at twenty-five thousand. The house gets twenty percent, and the rest goes into your bank account. Treasures always leave with the buyers the night of the auction.”

My mouth is literally hanging open. I am trying to wrap my head around all of it as she’s explaining. When I don’t hear her talking anymore, I look at her, “So, you are telling me that I am supposed to walk out on that stage, and stand there in this,” I hold up two pieces of scrap material, “while men bid on who gets to take me home for a month?”

Scarlett nods her head.

“And we are expected to sleep with them?” I choke a bit on my own saliva trying to get the words out.

“Sweetie, for the amount that they are paying, you are expected to do whatever they want. We vet all buyers to make sure there are no sickos who will hurt any of you. You really have nothing to worry about.” She grins, “Except falling in love with them. It happens sometimes.”

I jump up out of my seat, “I’m sorry, Scarlett. I can’t sell my virginity!” I throw the material onto the vanity, “Selling myself would be so wrong on so many levels, and I’m not keen on letting a man that I don’t know do whatever he wants to me. Thanks for the opportunity, but no thanks.”

“Well, I’m sorry to hear that. And to think, I thought I was helping you out.” She gives me a sad smile, “You can let yourself out. Oh, and feel free to talk to the other girls behind the doors before you leave. They all have been here before and can tell you what it’s like.” She starts walking away when she raises her voice, “Text me when you change your mind, Aria. I’ll be waiting.”

I just stand here, dumbfounded. What the fuck just happened? Do women really sell themselves on an auction block? I can’t be here any longer. Just the thought of giving my virginity to a stranger gives me chills, and having to stay for a whole month? I guess if what Scarlett says is true, and the women come back for more, they wouldn’t have to work. That just sounds too much like prostitution. I cannot do it. I look back and forth between the stage door and the door to the outside. I don’t need long to decide, I turn and head toward the door that is going to take me home.

Chapter 9 - Tomorrow Will Be Better

Patrick opened the diner back up on Tuesday since both he and Patty were over the sickness. Beth is still under the weather, but because the diner was closed for so long, both Patty and I agreed to work double shifts to help make up the time that we both lost. Things were starting to go back to normal, almost. I still need to find a third job with decent pay. I’m tired of depending on tips. I really wished the auction house were a real auction house and not just a glorified brothel. I’m not judging anyone by any means, I was just really counting on the extra money that Scarlett had mentioned.

When I check my phone on my break, there are multiple text messages from Frank, begging me to come back to the bar, and one new voicemail from a number that I do not recognize. I tap in my four-digit code and listen. I recognize Dr. Hildreth’s voice. Rolling my eyes, I am about to delete the message thinking he was going to try convincing me to let mom go, but I am wrong. He wants me to call him back to talk about transportation for my mother. Apparently, due to low funds, the hospital is being forced to close down. He goes on to say more, but I do not hear any of it because I hit the end call button.

The rest of my shift goes by in a blur. My mind replaying the doctor’s words over and over. What am I going to do with my mother? The only thing left to do is put her in a nursing home that the government will pay for, but I know that she would never want that. I remember that we used to joke about when she got old. I teased her about not wanting to change her Depends so I’d ship her to a home, and she made me promise to never put her in a home. How can I go back on that promise?

Bobby wraps up some leftovers for me and sends me home, saying he can close up by himself. He knows all about my struggles lately, and even though I don’t want people to pity me, it is nice to let people help out sometimes. I don’t know what I have done for life to make things so hard for me. I’ve always been a good daughter, student, friend, and worker. I treat people kindly for the most part, and I try to never complain. I do my best to get through the tough times, but there is always something waiting to knock me back down as soon as I make any progress.

I am not sure how I made it home safely, considering I didn’t pay any attention to my surroundings on my way back from the diner. Unlocking my apartment door, I flip the light switch, but nothing happens. Moving deeper into my apartment, I try another light switch, and nothing.

“Well, fuck!” Turns out this is my undoing. I slide down the wall and just start laughing. Not sure why I’m laughing, but I am. All too soon though, the laughter turns into crying.

After about thirty minutes of bawling like a baby, I drag myself back to my feet and go in search of candles. Not finding any, I look for a flashlight that actually has batteries in it. I do not want to waste the battery on my phone by using the flashlight app, so I continue to stumble through my apartment until I find a tiny LED flashlight. It’s about as long as my pointer finger but it will do the trick. The little thing gives off enough light for me to eat the food that Bobby sent home with me. It isn’t much, just two small chicken strips and a slice of day-old cherry pie, but I’m still grateful. Anything that I may have had in the fridge, which isn’t much, is probably no good now that the electricity is off. God only knows how long it’s been off.

Finally, after washing my face and brushing my teeth in a dark bathroom, I climb into my bed and snuggle under my comforter. “Tomorrow will be better, Aria.” I whisper into the dark, “If he brings you to it, he will bring you through it.” I chant, remembering the few sayings that my mom used to chant when times got tough after dad died, “He will never give you more than you can handle.” I repeat these words until I finally fall asleep, hoping that when the sun rises in the morning, things will be a little bit brighter.

What spark I once had in my eyes left years ago. I had to grow up fast, had to become a responsible adult in order to get the bills paid. I never once complained about it because I still had my mom encouraging me. Now, I have no one. I am alone, and I am growing tired. Tired of always working. Tired of always worrying. Tired of being mad at the life that I am forced to live. Just tired. If I’m not working, then I’m sleeping. I have no energy for anything else. I think I gave up caring the night I lost electricity. It's been a week since that night I broke down on my floor. Having to go into my rent money to pay for it, I got my electric back the next day, along with my job at the bar. I had no other choice. I am now a zombie moving around from job to job, and then going home to sleep, just to do it all again the next day.

It has been over a week since I have been able to stop in and see mom, but I’m determined to do it today. I have a little time between working the dayshift at the diner and the night shift at the bar. It isn’t much, but it’s something. Stepping off the elevator, I practically collide with Dr. Hildreth.

“I am so sorry, Steffen!”

“Oh, Aria. It’s quite alright. I should have been watching where I was going.”

“Oh no, I was the one preoccupied with things on my mind, and I’m kind of in a hurry. I don’t have much time between jobs, but I wanted to see her.”

He gives me a sympathetic smile, “I understand.” He clears his throat, “Did you ever get my voicemail that I left about the hospital closing?”

Shit! I forgot to call him back. I slap my forehead, “I completely forgot, but yes. Um, how much time do I have to find another facility?”

“Well, it won’t be closing for another two months, but Aria, I strongly suggest you consider our past conversations…”

Holding up my hand to stop him from saying what I know he is going to say, “I have told you about my feelings on the matter, Steffen. Please respect my decision.”

I can see that he is getting a little annoyed with my stubbornness, but I don’t really care. We are talking about my mother’s life! I really think that she will wake up at some point. I can feel it in my gut. I can tell that the doctor wants to say more, so I completely ignore him and head to my mom’s room. Being with my mother calms me. I can vent and I can be myself. I can tell her about my day or night, and in the end, I always feel at peace. When I begin my long rant, I don’t get very far into it when I notice another vase of flowers. It bothers me that I don’t know who is sending them to her, but at the same time, a smile appears on my face. Knowing that I am not the only one who is acknowledging that my mother is still here with us.

After my shift at the bar, I head home feeling a little better. It was a great tip night, and this time nobody stole my jar. There is a note taped to my door when I get home. I dread reading it because I already know what it’s going to say. Sure enough, as I open it, dread fills my veins. It’s a letter of eviction. I was already a month behind on rent, and when I had to dip into rent money to pay for my electric to get turned back on, I knew I would be late this month. Apparently, they’re not willing to work with me. The letter says that they are giving me two weeks to come up with two months of rent, to catch me up, or else I need to move ASAP.

“Well, when it rains, it pours.” I sigh and let myself into my apartment.

I throw my keys and the letter on the counter and go in search of a bottle of Tito’s that I know I have around here somewhere. After searching all my cupboards, I finally find the half bottle under the kitchen sink, way in the back. I don’t bother with a glass, as I bring the bottle up to my lips and chug, as I walk to the window seat in my living room.

Opening up the window, I let the cool night breeze hit my face as I gaze up at the starless night sky. You can never see the stars in the city, it’s a pity. I take another long drink from the bottle and look down at the street. Cars and trucks line both sides of the streets with only a few open spots here and there. My neighborhood is a poor one, so when my eyes fall on a sleek black BMW parked across the street, I frown. The expensive car is so out of place parked on this street, and I feel as though I have seen it before.

I don’t think too much on it. Taking another swig, I walk away from the window. I’m not much of a drinker; that together with me not eating much today, I’m starting to feel as though I shouldn’t have drunk so much.

I look at the bottle and giggle, “Oh shit!” There are maybe two swigs left. This is not going to be good come morning. I start giggling once more, finishing off the bottle.

Chapter 10 - Her Decision

It is the middle of the week and another long day of working. Dragging myself out of bed, I hop in the shower hoping to wake myself up. I literally catch myself falling back to sleep while washing my hair. How is that even possible? Only getting three to four hours of sleep at night, being on your feet all day, and not eating enough. That is how people fall asleep while washing their hair in the shower.

My foggy mirror that the shower steam caused seems like a good representation of my life. I feel like I’m just walking through life without knowing where I am going, because I can’t see where I am going, when I’m in a daze all day long due to lack of sleep. Using my hand, I swipe the mirror, leaving streaks, but I don’t care. Throwing my now dull raven locks up into a messy bun, I proceed to brush my teeth. The face that stares back at me is no longer my own, but a shell of what it used to be. Dark circles hover below my eyes while my cheekbones protrude out due to lack of nutrition. My blue-violet eyes are the same color, only they no longer shine. Spitting the toothpaste out, I rinse, wipe, and slowly shuffle over to the kitchen where my coffee awaits.

Having to endure another day like all the days before this is just so overwhelming. My shoulders droop as I sip my coffee at the table. My mind is clear of all thoughts except for one. Where did I ever get this ugly as sin floral tablecloth? I frown. Something doesn’t look right; it doesn’t belong in the ugly print of the material. Stretching across the table, my fingers slide over something black. Very slowly, my hand covers the foreign item and I slide back towards me. When I lift it off the table, my fingers fumble with it and it flutters down, landing in my lap. I don’t touch it right away. Instead, I stare at the bright color that is scribbled across it. It reminds me of blood. Blood reminds me of death. When I think of death these days, I think about peace. How peaceful would it be to just no longer exist? Just think about how much sleep I could get.

A shrill ringing starts to blare, and the table begins to vibrate. My head snaps to the sound. It’s my phone. I glance at the caller ID and see that it’s my mother’s hospital. My mind snaps me back to reality. Swiping my phone screen, I hurry up and answer. It’s the desk nurse.

“Um, is this Ms. Kramer?” she asks timidly.

“It is. Did something happen with my mom?”

“What? Oh, no. Your mom is perfectly fine.” I let out a huge sigh, and she continues, “I just wanted to call because I remember you asking once if I knew who sent your mother the flowers.”

“And? Do you know who it was?”

“I am sorry, I don’t. But I did see a well-dressed man dropping off another vase just as I was coming on shift this morning. I don’t think he was from the flower shop.”

“Can you at least tell me what he looked like?” I am confused. Why would some guy be bringing my mom flowers? Did she have a boyfriend before the accident? That can’t be. He wouldn’t wait all this time before getting her flowers if that was the case.

I focus back on what the nurse is saying, “He was wearing what looked like an expensive suit. He had dark hair that looks messy on top but it’s just the way it is styled. I’m sorry I can’t tell you more. That is all I know.”

“No, no, thank you. You have been a tremendous help. Thanks for calling and letting me know.”

“It is no problem. I will call you if I ever see him again. Next time I will make sure to get a better look at him for you.”

“Ok, thank you.” I hand up the phone and just sit there pondering what she just told me.

Noticing the black card is still in my lap, I pick it up and examine it. I didn’t realize I still had it. Bringing it to my lips, I push the corner of it into my bottom lip, contemplating.

‘What if I just said fuck it, and did it?’

‘I mean, it’s only my virginity. It’s not like I need it. It’s not like I’ll ever see him again.’ I’m talking to myself as I stare down at the twine around my finger.

“You broke my heart, Knox Hamilton. You said you would love me forever and that you would marry me. But you never came back for me.” I say all this aloud while my eyes tear up, “Maybe it’s time that I give up on my fairytale and face reality.”

‘But can I really go through with it?’

‘Can I give my virginity to a complete stranger? Better yet, will I be able to last a whole month with the stranger, and let him do as he pleases with me?’

My silent thoughts seem to have a bit of an effect on my lower regions. The thought of having no control over what someone does to me makes me tingle. Maybe that is what I need; give complete control over to someone else for a little while. The money will definitely help with mom. As much as it scares the shit out of me, it may just be what I need to finally get my head above water. I slide the card into my back pocket and head for my first house cleaning job.

I finished my last house a little after lunch time. I already sent a text to Frank letting him know that I won’t be able to work tonight. He was not too pleased with me, but I don’t care. I have never called in sick or taken time off in the past. Before I chicken out, I pull the black card out of my pocket and dial the number.

It rings a few times before her sultry voice comes over the line, “I had a feeling that I would hear from you again, sweet Aria.”

“Hello Scarlett.”

“It is Miss Scarlett for future reference.” Her voice is seductive and if I were a man I would definitely be seduced. “It’s Wednesday, Aria.”

I know why she says it the way she does, “It is.” I reply.

“Will you be joining us this evening?”

I bite my lower lip. It seems to me that she is anxious to have me be one of her treasures. I wonder if she will compromise on a couple of things. I guess it won’t hurt to ask.

“There are a few things that I want first before I agree.”

She chuckles on the other end, “Negotiating with me, Aria? Let’s see what you are wanting and then I will let you know. It’s quite unusual, you know.”

“Yes, but how many twenty-four-year-old virgins do you get to auction off?”

Another chuckle, “Hmm, touché! Go ahead then, ask.”

“First of all, I want the starting bid at one million dollars.” I scrunch my nose. This one was a far fetch one, but I figured I would ask anyway.

“Done.” She quickly responds, “Anything else?”

I am thrown for a loop at how fast she agreed to that one. The others shouldn’t be a problem. “Yes. The outfit that you wanted me to wear isn’t going to do.”

“That is what all of our treasures wear, Aria.”

I roll my eyes, “I understand you need to sell sex, Scarlett. It’s just that the color wasn’t very appealing. Do you have one in a royal blue or violet color? You know, to make my eyes pop.” I giggle.

“Oh dear girl, you melt my heart! We have them in almost every color, so yes. We will find one just right for you.”

“Okay, last one.” This one makes me nervous, “My mother is in a coma. I would like to be able to visit her at least once a week, if not twice a week.”

“Aria, I am sure that whoever your buyer is will allow you that privilege. As I said before, we vet all our buyers. You may get a Dominant that will demand you be submissive to them, but even they still have a heart. I will make sure to add it to your Bio for this evening. Is there anything else?”

I try to think but I don’t think anything else is all too important, “No, I guess not.”

“Fabulous. Auction starts at nine tonight, so I need you here by eight. We will do hair and makeup.” She rattles off how she can’t wait to see the faces of the men when they see her new treasure, blah, blah, blah. “See you tonight, sweet Aria.”

I’m left standing in the middle of the sidewalk staring at my phone. ‘What did I just get myself into?’ I shake my head, “You’ve got this, Aria. Just think of it as an adventure.” I did always want to try new things, but this? I must be losing my mind. Looking at the time on my phone, I see that it’s one thirty. I need to get home and get myself ready. I have so much shaving to do! I also need to go in and schedule my bills to be paid automatically out of my account. I am hoping the money will be there by the time the bills come out, otherwise I will have a lot of overdraft fees.

My nerves begin to fray thinking about calling into all of my jobs and letting them know I will be gone for a month. Most likely they will not be waiting for me when I get back, but at least I’ll have a little cushion and can look for new ones once I return. Blowing out a much-needed breath, I make my way to the bus stop.