บท 31: New life
Zhan's Pov.
I entered the brothel and immediately noticed the bustling atmosphere. The entire place was alive with activity. Women adorned in revealing attire moved about, captivating the attention of patrons. Men and women engaged in conversation, their laughter mingling with the clinking of glasses and the soothing sounds of music. The air was thick with the scent of smoke and the lingering aroma of indulgence.
As I stood there, I couldn't help but feel as though I had stepped into a different realm altogether. The sights and sounds around me painted a vivid picture of a world filled with desires and temptations, a place where inhibitions were left at the door. It was impossible to ignore the palpable energy coursing through the establishment. The brothel was a microcosm of an alternative reality, a place where one could escape the constraints of everyday life and embrace the allure of the forbidden.
I found myself feeling a strange sense of comfort in that place. I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to succumb to the temptations of the brothel and to be part of the chaotic energy that seemed to fill the air around me.
Suddenly, a voice called out from behind me, startling me. "Hey, are you looking for someone?"
I turned around to see a guy. "He's about my height, with dark hair."
"I am looking for Miss Bai!" I shouted over the loud music. Her brother directed me here.
Come with me," he said, and I followed him. We entered another chamber, distinct from the previous one, as it seemed less crowded and noisy. The chatter of men and women that had filled the previous room had diminished to a gentle hum in this spacious space. The ambiance was further enhanced by the subtle fragrance of fresh flowers, adding natural beauty to the room. The gentle sound of classical music playing in the background added a melodic backdrop to the serene atmosphere.
"Miss Bai," the guy said, and an elegant woman turned to look at us. She was wearing a red dress complemented by matching lipstick, making her stand out in the crowd. Her hair was neatly styled, and her eyes hint at mischief. She smiled warmly as she approached us.
"You look as pretty as he said," she said curiously. "Do you need a job, or you want to make money?" She asked.
"Both," I said, wondering what she meant by make money. She smiled and nodded.
"We are looking for someone to fill a position in the bar. It's a great opportunity for you, and the pay is very reasonable," she said.
Let me explain what I mean by "job" and "make money." When I talk about a "job," I mean employment as a server or a cook in our restaurant. On the other hand, when I mention "making money," I am referring to becoming a part of the people I oversee and mentor, commonly referred to as "my girls or my boys."
I need a job and a place to live. I said, understanding what she meant.
I want to make a fresh start, stay away from people like Wang, and make an honest living. My mind keeps wandering about Uncle Hao's friend, Mao, and his friends. The thought alone made me cringe. I don't want sexual pleasures for now.
She paused and then said, "Take some time to think about it. I know this is a big decision, and I want you to make the best decision for yourself."
"I don't need to think about it," I said quickly.
"What a waste of beauty!" she said, shaking her head and sucking her teeth. "Come with me," she said as she walked. "
I followed her inside, and there were many rooms with noises that reminded me of Wang. Shaking the thought off. She opened a small door and gestured with her hand.
I stepped inside and saw two beds. The bottom bunk was already taken, and clothes were scattered across the bed. She pointed to the top bunk and said, "That's your spot."
Thank you, I said quietly, and I dropped my bag on the table that was not occupied and climbed up on the bed to rest.
I will talk to Miss Bai tomorrow about my salary and what I would do. My favorite thing to do is cook and mix drinks, but I can't do both unless I want to age rapidly. In two months, I will turn 18. Tomorrow I will make a decision, but today I will rest. I lay down on the bed and took a deep breath, trying to clear my mind of any thoughts of Wang. I reminded myself that I was in an entirely different place and had a chance to start over and make something of myself.
After a few hours of rest, boredom and hunger kicked in, so I decided to explore the city.
I left the room. Sin and temptation permeate the place. When I entered the noisy lounge, I saw the guy who took me to Miss Bai.
Hi, he said to me as I approached.
Hey, I responded. Smiling.
A job or work? His eyes narrow as he asks.
A job, I said.
Good, he replied, nodding.
And you, what are you doing here? I asked.
Miss Bai is my aunt, and I always help out when I am not working.
Hmmmm, I see. I spoke.
No, no, no, not that kind of work. My grandma owns a farm, and I am responsible for it. His voice sounded awkward as he spoke.
It's okay; you don't have to explain. I said, rolling my eyes.
I'm Yu Bin. He smiled.
I'm Sean. I smiled back.
It's a nice name, he said. Care for food and alcohol?
Yes, to food, but no to alcohol. I spoke. Despite working in a bar, I have never drunk alcohol.
You worked at a bar. He said, sounding surprised.
Yes, I used to.
Then you should work at the bar. Yu Bin laughed and said, "The kitchen is a mess."
There were stalls selling food and other items on the street when we walked outside. There is also a local bar.
How long have you been here? I asked Yu Bin.
I moved here five years ago when I became ill. My sister wouldn't stop crying, so my grandma asked her to leave me with her. She comes monthly to see me. She will like you, I'm sure. He said smiling.
Most people here drink rather than cook, and noodles are the easiest food to prepare. He hissed.
If I work hard and save up enough money, I can open a food stall. I'm a great cook, I said.
Would you mind if I borrow you money? Yu Bin said.
Borrowing money to start a business is not a good idea. Thank you for the offer, though. I said.
Please let me know when you change your mind. Yu Bin nudged me as we walked through the streets filled with people.
After carefully considering our options, we ultimately decided to settle for noodles. Once we finished our meal, we made our way back inside.
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