The Unwanted

The VIP

Maxine's POV

"Oh, Max? You arrived earlier than I expected, something came up?" When I entered the club, Xyna was there to greet me. There was still an hour and a half until the schedule of the show. My typical arrival time was seven in the evening. But in order for me to be able to pay my mother's bills, I need to earn twice as much. At the club I was at, Xyna was working as a waitress.

"My mother has already had surgery. And I have to work overnight as I need to pay for her bills." After uttering those words, I proceeded to the locker room in order to change into my black panther uniform. There were also some of the dancers who had already started getting ready for the evening. Everyone appeared to be excited and enthusiastic, apart from me, who seemed to have the impression that the entire world was working against me.

" Max! What a surprise to see you this early." Madam Hermei muttered after seeing me as I entered the dressing room. She often monitored us, making sure that everyone was good and ready.

" Lessly had taken her leave tonight, so you will be the one who will do the hot dance." She added again while I furtively sighed. I never liked the idea of facing everyone, pleasuring them with their undying desires of lust. But I have to, after all, I've been stuck here since I can remember.

“ Yes madam, “ I answered and forced myself to smile.

“ Max, Come here. I know someone who can help with your problem. You just need to stay one night with him. “ Xyna grabbed my hands. I hesitated. I have never slept with anyone before.

"A-ah, I-I'm still young." I muttered.

"Girl, you work as a club dancer. That's not childish work. Come on, be aware of the fact that this job requires a sacrifice of our body." She said. "Oh wait, someone is calling me.” I was left dumbfounded in my spot.

I don't know why I was kinda tempted by her offer. Perhaps the reason was I am in the middle of finding a large amount of money. For my mother's sake.

My mind was evidently far away, I was unable to realize that I had already finished my performance for the night. I was only back to reality when the crowd's applause echoed in the whole place.

“Max, someone is looking for you." Madam Hermei said to me when she entered the dressing room. "Give it up, hija. Maybe that will help you." she suddenly whispered to me. I didn't know, maybe Xyna told her about my situation.

"What? Table?" I ask. I'm not sure if I can do this. But what choices do I have anyway?

“ Room four, he was a VIP.” I breathed heavily, I had never done this before.

“ I just hope that he won't take advantage of me. “ I muttered worriedly. I have to do this, for my mom.

"I hope so. You also need money. Don't worry, I'll still watch over you." she said after pressing my shoulders. Somehow it helped me to calm down for a little bit, although it only lasted for a few seconds.

I went out after I got dressed.

My breath was heavy as I tackled my way to where my customer was. Madam Hemei told me that he was a VIP. It means he was either a businessman or came from a wealthy family.

"So, how old are you?" He asked while holding the wine he was drinking. Indeed, I made it inside. In front of him. He was nearly 50, I supposed. A little bit younger than I had expected. He might be the same age as my father. And I was extremely glad that he was kind and formal. My fear had gone unsighted.

"Uhm. I'm twenty sir." I answered timidly. My legs were crossed, tightened, and at the same time, I was also nervous and sweating.

"Aren't you too young to work in this kind of place as a dancer?" He said and smiled at me.

I was surprised. Those warm smiles just give me the courage to feel comfortable around him. For the first time, someone cared for my sake. Which I have never felt before.

"Why are you working here?" He asked again when I couldn't find my words.

I don't know if I should tell him about it or not. I'm not yet comfortable enough to let my guard down and talk to him openly. Were both strangers and we were alone in this room.

"It's ok if you don't—"

“ I...I need some money, my mom was in the hospital. She just had the surgery done, and I need to pay for her bills.” I nearly whispered. I bite my bottom lip from stuttering. Why do I feel ashamed by the way? I shouldn't, since I'm doing it for my mother's sake and for my study as well.

“ Is that so, how was your mother’s situation now?”

“ She's okay now, sir. I might be able to talk to her sooner. “ I answered. I didn't notice that he had finished his drink already. The wall clock hit 8 o'clock in the evening, the time passed quickly. And I haven't done my job yet for him. Although he seemed kind, I still needed to do it. I need money, that's all I can think of.

"Are you still studying?" I looked up to him again and nodded.

"Yes. “ This time he smiled again, I didn't know what forced me to smile back at him. But I suddenly felt proud of myself, where no one believed that I could.

"You're so diligent."

"I..thank you, sir.” I muttered.

"By the way, what's your name?" He asked me this time. My system was panicking as I never told my name to my customers at the table before.

I will just use my nickname, I guess.

That's right, just my nickname.

" Jade, sir.” I said. He was looking at me intently.

"Jade." He repeated my name and nodded his head. "I am Will, Will Almonicar." It was an acquaintance so I reached out my hand to it. He reached mine and we shook hands.

We talked about random things for almost two hours and that I was thankful for. I don't have to do some dirty job. Tonight, I am very lucky.

“ It's a pleasure to have your time, Jade. I enjoy your company. There are plenty of decent jobs you can find anywhere. You're too young and innocent for this, and there is a better future ahead of you.” I held my breath. As I was controlling my misty eyes, what he said was right. But, life was never easy for me. And no one can understand mine.

I don't know what to do if I should stop studying or get another job. I really do not know.

“ Thank you as well, sir. Have a safe trip.” I bid goodbye to him and watched his back fleeing away. I was left much more relieved than I have ever been. It would be good if every customer I have had the same kindness and respect as him. But unfortunately, everyone is different.

After relaxing for a bit, I stormed outside of room four and went to the dressing room. It was ten o'clock already. Still, a long night to go through.

“ You have earned a lot tonight, Max. This is for you,” Madame Hermei appeared behind me after I got out. She was smiling widely, it's proof that something good happen.

“ What is this?” I asked her upon receiving the red envelope. Her smile had widened more, which left me dumbfounded.

"Your first customer gave it to you, take note. That was just his tip for you." Madam answered. "I told you, you'll save a lot if you keep doing it." She added, still wearing her broad smile.

I don't know if I should be happy or nervous because that man handed me too much money. I was unable to think clearly as my hands were trembling. Partially, I was relieved. But at the same time bewildered. Why would he give so much of his money, though?

“ And good news. You can go home early tonight, as he paid for your service too. Take the time to take some rest, I know you've been working a lot lately.” I was even more surprised.

"Y-yeah, I s-should.” I answered abruptly.