YOU ARE HIRED

KILLIAN

The shrill ring of the phone abruptly jerked me from my sleep, and I grunted, feeling an overwhelming lethargy enveloping every inch of my body. Despite my reluctance, I reached over the woman sprawled on my chest to retrieve the phone from the nightstand, squinting at the screen to discern Colby’s name.

“Why the fuck are you calling me by this time?” I seethed, my irritation growing as I was rudely interrupted from much-needed rest following a night of relentless partying and sexual escapades with the two women now lying on either side of my body in my penthouse bedroom.

“Alpha, it's noon and your mom is here,” Colby whispered urgently.

I sat up, pushing the woman on my chest away. One of them tumbled onto the floor with a groan.

“She’s where?” I asked, climbing out of the bed naked, as I made my way to the bathroom.

“Is this how you manage the company, Killian?” My mother’s stern voice echoed through the phone. “Look at the time, and you’re not even in your office.”

I sighed deeply, grappling with my mother’s persistent scrutiny.

“I own the company, Mom. I show up when I want.”

“No, you don’t own the company. Not yet, Killian.”

Confused, I furrowed my brows. What did she mean by “not yet”?

“If you don’t conduct yourself appropriately, this entire empire could slip through your fingers. I came to remind you of the meeting at my place at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. Don’t miss it for anything.”

Before I could muster a response, the call abruptly ended. Staring at the lifeless screen, I dropped the phone on the sink before proceeding to brush my teeth.

Once refreshed, I returned to the bedroom where the women still lay on the bed. Retrieving a handful of cash, I tossed it in their direction.

“Take this and leave before I get back.”

~*~

KARLA

Dear Mrs. Anderson,

I write to inform you of your late husband’s outstanding debt, neglected prior to his passing. While I’ve allowed ample time for your grieving process, the moment has arrived to address this matter promptly. Failure to comply will result in dire consequences.

Your husband’s gambling debts total $3 million, and I extend a two-week window for you to initiate payments. Failing this, I’ll be compelled to seize your assets and take custody of your daughter to recoup the owed amount.

Regards,

Alpha Chase

I gazed at the letter, scrutinizing its contents for the hundredth time. With each reading, my heart sank into the pit of my stomach, and I felt a heaviness in my chest. The revelation that my father had concealed his gambling habits, using financial hardship as an excuse, and deterred me from college, struck me anew. I felt more than betrayed because I was so close to him and didn't notice this and worst of all, he didn't consider my feelings or future. A lone tear traced my cheek, and I hastily wiped it away. Instead of an improved life following the emergence of my wolf, I found myself sinking further into despair, unable even to contemplate a name for her.

I was familiar with Alpha Chase by reputation, though I’ve never met him personally, I was aware of the ruthless tales surrounding him. I don't want to endure the fate of those under his control—I couldn’t become a sex worker. Maintaining my virginity at twenty, I couldn’t fathom engaging in such activities.

The door closed behind me, Ana came in and sighed. “Are you still reading that letter? I warned you it would only bring more pain.” She positioned herself in front of me. “Is this the life you want? To cry every day?”

“I can’t believe my father denied me college for this. I’m jobless, my mother is in the hospital with bills piling up, and now this debt needs settling…”

“It’s time to cease the whining and take action. All I hear is complaint after complaint. Quit drowning in self-pity and do something.” With force, she slammed a piece of paper onto my table.

Ana’s words stung, especially coming from her, but she was right. However, the paper she dropped in front of me captured my attention. Picking it up with a furrowed brow, I saw images of scantily dressed girls. I didn’t need to read the contents to grasp its implications.

“You want me to become an exotic dancer?”

“I know. It’s not the ideal job, but it’s worth a shot. You’ve got some moves; you could rake in the cash in a month or two. You’re a skilled dancer…”

I sighed. “Ana, that was in high school, and I danced because I wanted to fit in.”

“It doesn’t matter, K. This time, you can turn your skills into income, and no one has to know about it.”

I tossed the paper at her, rising from my seat and heading into the kitchen. “There’s no way I’m becoming a stripper. Thanks, but no thanks.”

Anastasia was undeterred, following me into the kitchen. “It’s not like you’ll have sex with patrons if you don't consent. There’s a strict no-sex policy. You’re just there to tease them, and it’s a new club. It opened a few days ago…”

“I don’t know why you’re giving me this information. I’ve made up my mind; don’t ask me to reconsider because I won’t. I’ll find a respectable job and clear my debt.”

“No offence, but what ‘respectable’ job are you talking of?" Ana countered."The one that paid you $30 a month? What decent job can you get with just a high school certificate?”

“Thanks for the reminder, but my answer remains no.”

“K, you’ve refused my financial assistance, and you won’t let me help you in any way,” Ana’s disappointment rang in her voice.

“Ana, I genuinely appreciate your offer. Trust me, I do. But I know your family is working hard to send you to college, and I won’t add to that burden. While I’m grateful, I’m just not suited for that lifestyle.”

Ana approached, gripping my hands. “Look at me. You don’t have to reveal yourself. Wear makeup, and leave right after your job. K, this is a shot at a better life. Take it.”

“How did you even get all this information?”

“I got the flyer from Jeremy when we went clubbing last night.”

“Jeremy, your gay friend?” Ana nodded. “Why not get a real boyfriend?”

“No can do. Guys are terrible, and I won’t tolerate any nonsense, especially after high school and what happened to my sister Chloe. Let’s stay on topic. Jeremy took me to the club, and the manager gave this to him. Seems he’s interested in Jeremy. K, you have to seize this opportunity. It’s a new club, and the pay is good.”

“The answer is still no.” I turned away.

“Are you willing to give up $200 per night just to be a decent human? Last I checked, it hasn’t done anyone any good.”

I paused, then turned to Ana. “Two hundred dollars per night?”

Ana’s lips curled into a cocky smile. “That’s the starting point. It could be more, and I believe you can pull this off.”

“How certain are you?” I asked curiously.

Ana pulled out her phone and shoved it in my face. “The internet is your friend.”

~*~

In the evening, we ventured to the recently opened Deluxe Club, a time when patrons were yet to fill the space. Ana had expertly applied makeup to my face and had handed me a revealing red dress, enhancing my figure with bra pads. She said I had to look the part but I was uncomfortable in this new attire and had spent the entire day attempting to master walking in heels.

Entering Deluxe Club, I softly gasped at the opulent interior, clearly designed for the affluent. Hooking my arm with Ana’s, we descended the stairs into the still-empty club. A man approached, scrutinizing us.

“Hi,” Ana greeted, waving at him.

“Are you girls here for the interview?” We nodded. “This way,” he said, guiding us to a back room.

The room was well-lit, and about ten other girls were present. A man in skinny jeans and numerous piercings was addressing them, pausing upon seeing us. His face brightened at the sight of Ana.

“Hey, you,” he greeted, waving lightly.

“Hi, Cole,” Ana returned the greeting.

Cole’s eyes scanned me, and I adjusted my dress to conceal my cleavage while avoiding his gaze. He sighed heavily.

“I see you’re back again. Are you interested in our…” he began.

“Er… Cole, I brought a friend who’s interested. She’s a skilled dancer and can earn you substantial money,” Ana interrupted.

Cole’s gaze lingered on me, and I silently prayed for the ground to swallow me. I had no idea where to direct my eyes. Cole smacked his lips and circled around me.

“She’s an Omega, but a seductive one. We could use her willowy frame, and human customers will be willing to pay handsomely for her.”

“Can you repeat that without mentioning she’s an Omega?” Ana’s voice had an unmistakable edge to it.

I gently tugged on her arm and whispered, “Don’t worry, Ana. I’m used to it by now.”

“My bad," Cole said with a smile, raising his hands in the air as surrender. "Her face is also a plus.” He examined my features. “She’s got sexy emerald eyes to attract customers. She’s hired.”

My heart skipped a beat, and I felt the urge to jump and shout with joy, but I maintained my composure as I sensed the other girls glaring at me. I knew Cole was likely doing this to win Ana’s favour, hoping for a connection with Jeremy, but I was still pleased to secure the opportunity without much hassle.

“Do you have your costumes, or will you use ours?” Cole directed the question to me.

“I… I don’t have costumes yet,” I stuttered.

“Very well, then. We’ll provide you with costumes, but you’ll need to cover the cost. You’re up tonight, and I want to see what you’ve got.”

He turned to the other girls. “Only five of you are chosen for this job. The rest will need to head home and work on their bodies. Follow me, Ome… Miss…”

“I’m Karla,” I stated.

“Well, then, Karla, let’s glam you up and get you on that stage.”