Something Like Gold

Avril pushed her own palm against the back of her client, pressing with a few fingers and stroking in a way that would make the person feel more relaxed. This was the only job she had, but even it still wasn’t enough to cover the needs of her sick aunt. At times, she felt envious of her coworkers who earned a lot of money after their shifts. She sighed and finished the massage. She saw the client’s smile once it was over and he gave her a tip before leaving. She hoped he would come back. Avril glanced over at her coworker Rachel, who was also resting in their staff area. It was their break time since they currently had no clients. Rachel said with a laugh, “wow, that extra service of mine was great.” Avril almost furrowed her brow, “what extra service are you talking about?” Rachel was one of the massage therapists there who always walked around with a bright smile, and she always seemed to have a lot of cash. Avril couldn’t help feeling curious, especially when she badly needed money. Rachel smirked and came closer. The place where Avril worked wasn’t like other massage spots in the area. Generally, wealthier people came here and it was a somewhat hidden establishment. Although Avril felt a bit anxious about that, it paid enough unlike it her places where employees got exploited. Rachel grinned, “you know, aside from the massage,” she whispered, like kissing the client, touching him, giving him some heat or [__] for a big fee.” Avril’s hair stood on end at the suggestion because she knew exactly what Rachel meant. “You do what?” She asked. “Yes. Got a problem?” Rachel arched a brow. “If you need money and don’t act, nothing’s going to happen. These rich people blow tons of cash just to get what they want. If it feels good, they’re willing to pay thousands for an extra service. And besides, nobody’s going to stop you here. Each room is just you and the client, so you can do a lot.” Avril fell silent. “Why don’t you try it?” Rachel asked, giving her a once-over. “You’re beautiful. No need to be shy in this job. Offer extra service to your clients. Nobody’s going to judge you here, because I’m not the only one doing it. Almost everyone is. You might be the only one who doesn’t know.” Avril thought about what Rachel said, especially since she desperately needed money. Her Aunt Matilda had kidney problems and was Avril’s only remaining family. Avril had no real means to help her quickly because she didn’t have the funds. She understood why people like Rachel did it. Everyone had their own struggles, and that was how Rachel earned more. When Avril got home, she brought the expensive medication her aunt needed for the day. Her salary was just enough for that and their food. She found Aunt Matilda sitting in the living room, clearly in pain. Avril hurried to her side and held her by the shoulders. “Where does it hurt?” Aunt Matilda shook her head, her lips were pale. “I’m okay, Avril. Don’t worry.” “No, Aunt Linda. I really will worry,” Mary insisted. She helped her aunt stand so they could go to the bedroom. “I have your medicine here—the one the doctor prescribed.” Aunt Matilda said, “You know your life won’t progress if you keep making me your priority. You could have used your salary to buy what you want or maybe go to college.” Avril refused to listen. She sat Aunt Matilda on the bed and left briefly to get some water. When Avril came back, Aunt Matilda was lying down already. “Aunt Matilda , please have mercy on me,” Avril said softly, sitting at the edge of the bed. “I choose to endure hardship because I want you to keep on living.” Her aunt looked at her, tears forming in Aunt Matilda’s eyes. Avril tried not to cry herself because she knew she had to stay strong. If it weren’t for Aunt Matilda, she wouldn’t have had a home. Even though she wasn’t related by blood, her aunt still took her in. Aunt Matilda’s relatives never liked Avril, but that didn’t stop her aunt from being kind. Now that Aunt Matilda was sick, her relatives turned their backs on her, blaming karma for letting Avril live with them. Avril felt enraged at these people who once clung to Aunt Matilda when she was healthy, like she had so much money to give away. Avril realized that some people only stay around if you have something to offer. Once you have nothing left, they abandon you. No matter what happened, Avril wouldn’t let Aunt Matilda down. “Get some rest, Aunt Matilda. Don’t worry about me.” Avril forced a small smile and gave her aunt the medicine. After Aunt Matilda took it, Avril kissed her forehead before leaving the room. She took a deep breath and wiped away a tear that escaped.