The Big Bunny - Wicked F*ckers Series

Chapter 2: The Interview

So I must leave, I’ll have to go

To Las Vegas or Monaco

And win a fortune in a game

My life would never be the same

Chapter Theme Song: Money, Money, Money by ABBA

"Never be afraid to change. It might become beneficial and critical for your future." -C.B. Blackburn

?~Scarlett POV~?

The next day, I woke up earlier than typical. The clock on my iPhone showed it was 06:00 AM, and the sun was already rising. Untangling the pink bedsheets from my legs, I got out of bed and tip-toed to the bathroom to prepare for the day. Viviana was still dozing off. Her bedroom door was half-open, so I tried not to wake her. I got inside the bathroom and gently closed the door. I turned on the faucet before plugging the drain hole, letting the water fill the bathtub.

I put on an aromatic bath bomb, letting it dissolve while I started to undress, tugging my white tank top followed by the pink shorts. After the bathtub it was filled, I turned off the faucet and got inside. My eyes closed and a soft sigh left me as the lukewarm water relaxed my muscles. The scent of vanilla and roses filled my senses. I put extra effort into getting ready, scrubbing my body, applying butter scrub, and sponging myself from neck to toe. For my hair, I had lots of products from shampoo and conditioner to the softening mask with hyaluronic properties. After I was done and the water started to get cold, I rinsed any shower foam off and then unplugged the bathtub, letting the water run down the drain. I took the white fluffy towel from the rack and dried myself up, before wrapping it around my petite frame. Tiptoing back to my bedroom, I let my hair dry on its own while I applied body lotion, the same scent as the bath bomb. I smiled at how soft my skin was. I was very religious when it came to taking care of myself, mostly because I loved the sensation of meticulous self-care.

Opening the closet door, I looked through my clothes to figure out what I should wear for today. If I was going to seek a job I had to look as professional as possible. I wasn’t the superficial type, but I couldn’t lie and say looks don’t matter when it comes to applying for a work position. The first impression matters. I picked up a pair of white cotton pants, mimicking the jeans, and a pastel pink oversized button-up, tucking it into my pants. I left the first two buttons at the collar undone so my golden necklace could be seen.

Next, I did my make-up, making sure it was flawless yet natural. I debated if I should put red lipstick on but decided otherwise for now, opting for a more natural pink color. After I was sure my hair was dried, I started to style it. I curled my platinum blonde hair into a vintage wavy style, giving myself a bit of elegant apparel. Finally done, I got up from my vanity mirror and glanced at myself in the full-length mirror. A soft smile graced my lips as I checked my appearance.

It was no lie that one of my top qualities was my looks. I would never loudly boast about my beauty because I knew modesty was the essence of a gorgeous face. It was better to let others tell you how gorgeous you are rather than getting all narcissistic. Many people told me I should opt for modeling, but I never saw myself running down a catwalk. Plus my height didn’t help me. Models should be at least 5′8 and I was only 5′5.

Besides, I wanted to do more in life than just look pretty. I was aware outer beauty doesn’t last forever. We all get old, and if there is nothing more than a pretty face, then everything is all in vain. After leaving my bedroom, I applied my favorite perfume, BonBon by Viktor&Rolf, then grabbed my purse and iPhone. Viviana was still asleep so I was quick to slip on my light pink ballet flats and exit the apartment. We only got one car, so it was hard for both of us to use it at the same time. I was positive Viviana was gonna get out today to look for a job too, so I decided to leave her the car. It was fairly warm and sunny today, but that’s just how the Nevada weather is. I decided to take a cab to the center of the city where most casinos, restaurants, and entertainment places were located.

Four hours went by quickly as I went from one casino to another, entering each building that had a poster announcing they were hiring. I honestly didn’t think it would be this challenging. Many people were applying for jobs, most of which were women whom I couldn’t complete. They were more voluptuous with attitude and more alluring than I could be. Defined curves weren’t one of my top qualities. Most employees were straightforward, telling me that yes, I had a gorgeous face, but I didn’t have what they were looking for as they motioned to my body. Some were so rude to the point they didn’t even let me tell them about my dancing skills, as well as singing. I was a frustrated mess as lunchtime approached.

I decided I would give it one last try for today before heading back to my apartment. Stopping in front of a huge casino, I was mesmerized by the architecture and design outside. It stood out compared to the other casinos in the neighborhood. The casino’s name was Jack Rabbit, written in cursive neon lights with a bunny attached above the name. I was curious how the casino looked at night when all the majestic lights were on. The architecture of the casino was eccentric, a combo of modern, deconstructive, and tacky designs. A bit nervous, I entered through the revolving doors, and the moment I stepped inside, my breath was taken away. If the outside was impressive, then the inside was majestic.

I felt like I put my foot into a place from another timeline. The main colors were black, red, royal purple, and magenta pink, giving the place a sensual and elegant atmosphere. The furniture was of Chesterfield style, giving an opulent vibe all around. The club is festooned with dripping crystal chandeliers, heavy scarlet curtains, and tall gilded mirrors. It took my breath away. It was a three-story building filled with a variety of casino games from the famous roulette and table games to slot machines and the wheel of fortune. The sound of the games going on filled the place along with the background music. Observing the place one thing I was certain of; the casino had its name right. It was impossible to ignore the theme which was the mascot.

THE BUNNY. It was sort of sexy in a way.

What truly caught my attention was the immense scene in the far back of the casino, and I slowly walked toward it, ignoring the people who were trying their luck at winning a fortune. Even if it was only the middle of the day, this place was filled with people.

I stopped in front of the scene, gazing at it and picturing myself on it, dancing and singing with tons of people applauding. The long red curtain of the scene looked impeccable, just like the polished floorboards of the scene. I was so entrapped in my little daydream that I was unaware of someone walking behind me until I felt a gentle hand resting on one of my shoulders.

Turning around, my baby blue eyes meet amber eyes. A man around 6′1 tall stood in front of me. He had dark brown hair in a side-parted hairstyle, all put together without a single rebellious hair sticking out of place. He had flawless skin with a discrete tan from the scorching Nevada sun. The man had a dark grey suit, perfectly tailored for his muscular frame. His black Oxfords were freshly polished, and shining from the lights of the casino. I felt myself blush as his plump lips curled into a smile. He looked to be in his late 30s with slight wrinkles at the corners of his eyes and mouth as he smiled.

“Hello, darling! How may I help you?” He asked very politely, his voice deep and holding a tingle of a southern accent. Blinking a few times, I woke up from my dazed self and nodded.

“Uhhh... Yeah. Actually, I saw the poster outside and saw that the casino is hiring staff. I am looking for a job.” I told him with honesty. There was no point in lying, and I was positive he wouldn’t do anything obscure if that was his intention. We were in broad daylight, after all. He arched an eyebrow, and his smile widened.

“I figured that one out.” He told me, and I blinked in surprise.

“How so?” I asked with curiosity.

“You are holding a folder, and you didn’t look like a customer, plus you were looking all around as if searching for someone working here.” He concluded, and I gave him a nervous smile.

“Was I that obvious?” I asked, rubbing the back of my neck and shifting from one foot to another.

“A little. Come on. Follow me.” He motioned for me to follow him, and I furrowed my eyebrows, staying glued to my feet.

“You’re looking for a job here, right? Come on.” At his words, I quickly hurried after him like a lost and excited puppy.

We turned in another direction of the casino, down a dim-lit hallway with many doors. As we passed them, I read the golden plates on the doors with words on them. Most belonged to the staff, and some had names written on them. Probably the ones who worked in a higher position here.

The mysterious man stopped in front of a door that had Mr. Davenport on it. He opened the door and motioned for me to enter.

“Ladies first.” I smiled at his chivalrous demeanor and entered his office which was quite spacious with lots of southern decors. It was different from the rest of the casino, with lighter colors, and there was a personal touch to his office, like the many pictures and knick-knacks on the bookshelves. There was a warm and welcoming atmosphere here, and it made me relax.

“Sorry for not introducing myself earlier. My name is Liam Davenport, and yours is...?” I blinked a few times and broke away from ogling his office.

I coughed and forced my blood to stop rushing to my cheeks. “Uhhh Yeah, my name is Scarlett Brooklyn.” I introduced myself, accepting to shake his hand as he offered it.

“Beautiful name for a beautiful young woman.” He complimented, offering me a small grin, displaying his perfectly straight-white teeth before the handshake stopped.

“Please do have a seat and we can start on the interview.” My eyes widened, and I fiddled with the folder in my hands.

“R-Right now? I thought we would program the interview.” I shuttered, now feeling anxious since I haven’t prepared myself for an interview. This situation felt like a lightning quiz in high school.

Liam chuckled. “We operate differently. Our motto is that time is money, so we don’t waste time on all that formality. If you can handle a surprise interview, I am positive you can handle working here. Our casino is the top one in Las Vegas, and very influential people are our main clientele... so it might be a little overwhelming.” He explained and motioned for me to take a seat in one of the cream-colored armchairs in front of his mahogany desk.

“Nothing I cannot handle, Sir.” I confidently spoke, surprising even myself, considering a few seconds ago I was like a shy baby hare entering the world for the first time.

Liam gave me a wide smile before chuckling. He took his seat behind his desk and motioned for me to hand him the folder with all the information about me.

“It’s good you are so sure of yourself. Now, to get started... We have a few spots open for a waitress position... and one for the boss’s office keeper.” I tilted my head in confusion at the second job position.

“Office keeper? That means keeping your office clean and neat?” I asked, and Liam gave another amused chuckle, before shaking his head.

“Not my office, darling. The boss’s office.” Now I was even more perplexed.

“Wait? You are not the boss?” Liam looked like the picture of the casino’s boss with his pristine suit and perfectly-styled hair, not to mention his warm charisma that seemed to brighten every spot of a room he walked into.

“Sadly, no. I am if you can say, the second in command when the big boss isn’t here, darling. He is not here now, for he is in a meeting in another state. We have casinos all around the country, so business trips are not uncommon for him. This casino in Las Vegas is the prime one. He should be here tomorrow... Plus I am the one doing the interviews.” I processed all the information, and with every little piece, he told me, I started to consider if I was fit for this prestigious casino.

“If he is the CEO, then how come he isn’t the one doing the interviews for new employers?” I asked, expecting such an important aspect of a business to be handled by the first one.

“Let’s just say he is the type that prefers to stay in the shadows while he pulls on the strings. Trust me... Is better for me to handle the interviews.” My hands sweated a little, pondering what sort of ruthless chief he could be if his right hand in the business told me such an aspect about him.

“Anyway, let’s get back at you, Miss Brooklyn. I noticed you had worked for a year and a half almost at a dinner in your hometown, correctly?” I nodded, continuing to fiddle with my fingers.

“What made you quit and leave?” He asked, leaning back in his office chair and giving me the opportunity to speak.

“I was looking for something more. The workplace was absolutely fine, but I didn’t want to be trapped in a small town, so I left. I am looking forward to evolving.” I responded and patted myself on the back mentally when Liam hummed in agreement.

“The classic story of leaving a little town for the big city opportunity.” I kept my chin high, smiling and nodding. So far was good. Maybe I had a chance here.

“However...” My smile started to drop at the word. “You don’t have any experience in the work department. One year and a half in a dinner restaurant in a small town don’t add too much... compared to a prestigious casino such as this one, darling.” My heart felt like it dropped in the pit of my stomach, and a slight sweat formed at the nape of my neck.

“I am a fast learner, Mr. Davenport,” I spoke with determination, my back as straight as a board.

“They all say this.” Liam sighed, offering me a supportive smile, and I had a feeling he was doing this because he had to, not because he wanted to. “I am sorry, but I don’t think you are qualified... as hard as it sounds. Others with much more experience came, and they got rejected.” No, I wouldn’t accept being denied a hundred times today, all because I was too young and because of my sticky lack of experience.

“Please, Sir. I need this job here... I will do my best... I will work extra hours if it’s needed.” The timber in my voice was one of utter desperation, and the man’s amber eyes softened.

“Miss Brooklyn...” He softly spoke.

“I will work these two jobs at the price of one!” I declared, standing up from the armchair, my hands trembling and a bitter taste forming on my tongue. No, I wasn’t going to cry, but I wasn’t going to leave this place without a job. The thought of going back to my hometown scared me, so my fear overpowered my pride. Sometimes you have to bow your head in life in order to avoid the guillotine.

Liam raised an eyebrow, and something else flashed over his face at my outburst. It was a pity.

“You remind me of my younger self, you know? I was like you too when I was young... extra eager to prove myself.” The corners of my lips quirked up into a little smile at the display of empathy coming from Liam.

“Normally, I wouldn’t do this, but I can see the determination in your eyes, so I am gonna take up your offer for working two jobs at the pay for one.” I couldn’t stop the wide grin spreading across my face, and I did a happy victory dance into my head.

“But...” The excitement died again. “I should give you a heads up. Mr. Shaw isn’t a very forgiving man. You only got one chance to prove your worth here. I am doing the employment, but he does the termination of employment.” A serious expression crossed Liam’s face, and I gave an anxious nod.

“I will do my best,” I assured, forcing myself to keep a confident posture.

“I do hope so... for your sake. You seem like a very sweet young woman with a good heart, and honestly, I wouldn’t like to see him tear you apart... figuratively, of course.” He chuckled at the end after the expression of fear across my face.

“The last office keeper ran out of the casino in tears. The headman of this chain of casinos can be too blunt in expressing his displeasure when it comes to lazy staff.”

“I will try not to stay in his way then.” I gave a light joke, trying to ease the thick tension in the air. Liam snickered, tapping one of the fancy pens on the dark wood of his desk.

“That shouldn’t be a problem. He doesn’t like to show his face in public too much. As I said, he is a very private man.” A sense of intrigue filled me as a few jigsaw puzzles about the boss were thrown here and there.

“He sounds like a big introvert. Isn’t it weird that this type of personality owns such a lively casino?” The words flew from my mouth before I could think them through, and a smirk graced the sun-kissed skin of the man behind the desk.

“You are quite curious about the big boss, huh?” My eyes widened, and I felt my cheeks heat up. Averting my eyes for a second, I coughed a little to clear my voice.

“I-I didn’t mean to be nosy, Sir.” I apologized, some of my wavy curls obscuring half of my face.

“Nothing to apologize about. I have a feeling you will do fine here. So... Let’s get to the paperwork. You know... formalities.” One hour passed while we were doing the paperwork for my job position here.

“You will start tomorrow at 06:00 am sharp. The first job is the office keeper. It doesn’t state how many hours you will work. Once Mr.

Shaw’s office is clean and all organized, you can go home, but you will come back at 08:00 pm for the night shift. Are you sure you can handle that much? It means you will be more at work than at home.”

I smiled after I re-read the hiring contract for the third time. “I don’t mind, Mr. Davenport. Considering I am new here in Las Vegas and don’t have any acquaintances or friends here, nothing is holding me too much at home.” Liam smiled back, a glint of mischief in his amber eyes.

“Not even a boyfriend?” My eyes widened, and the blush came back. I giggled and then shook my head.

“N-No. I am too focused on my goals now, to let romance mess up with my head.” At my words, the man laughed.

“Wise girl. Alright then... See you tomorrow morning.”