BOUND TO THE MAFIA KING

After four years...

"I'm sorry Selina, but we are going to have to let you go." Calmly, Mr. Bain said while tying his tie tighter.

"But sir, I've been working here for a year now, I barely even remember what it's like to be put back up on the market." "I hated even saying it like that," I say anxiously. I felt like a used doll that was always being purchased and sold.

Nearly four years had passed since my escape. Specifically, three years and ten months. It seems like yesterday when I think back on that day; I thought things would be a little better, but nothing really changed.

I discovered the 'Autumn Shore Hotel', a local hotel when the cab driver dropped me off that day in Rochdale, which was around five hours distant from my home. It wasn't particularly fancy, but it didn't look too bad for a short stay. The structure was cream in color, but I assume it was once white. Some of the hotel's windows were either severely taped up or blacked out. The only things about the motel that seemed to be broken were the lights that were on and the occasional flicker.

I made the decision to hunt for a job while I was there, such as a waiter or store employee. I looked everywhere for work, but I couldn't find anything.

A man in his mid-thirties overheard the chat I had with the restaurant owner after I had just asked for a job there and they had turned me down, just as I was about to give up. He came over to me, introduced himself as Leonardo, and said he had heard that I was looking for work.

As we conversed, he informed me that he had a position that would be ideal for me, even though I am quite shy and anxious. Because I was gullible, I didn't question his generosity when he stated he would have his chauffeur arrive and take us to the purported workplace where he claimed I could assist.

I didn't understand Leonardo's generosity was fleeting until I was pushed violently into the back of a gleaming black van. I sat in the dark in the back of the van, crying for what seemed like hours, wondering what would happen to me. Would I perish? Would I receive harsher treatment than Paul would have given me? I kept asking myself these questions.

I felt the van come to a stop when we appeared to have arrived at our destination. After a minute or two of waiting, I heard footsteps approaching, and then the doors opened to let me out. I was unable to flee as Leonardo and two other ominous-looking men stood across from me.

As the two men took hold of my arms and dragged me away, I wailed silently. I continued asking Leonardo what they would do with me, to which he replied, "To give you a job, just like you wanted love."

When the men stopped pulling me and halted at an odd building I had never seen before, I instantly looked up and surveyed my surroundings. A seemingly abandoned warehouse that had been renovated to look much better-like a mansion-was in front of us.

I was led into a room at the end of a dim hallway where I was informed that my outfit would be located. The hallways were quite packed with men and a few ladies dressed professionally. Leonardo disregarded me despite my repeated pleas for him to explain what was happening. Rather, I was confined to this room to change.

I was somewhat aback to see a short black maid's uniform paired with the standard white apron that I had seen all maids wear in the old TV shows. A letter with the words, "Congratulations!" was placed next to the ensemble. You are one of our maids, and our clients who feel they need you in their lives will buy and sell you.

We will pay you a lot of money for your hard work and positive outlook, so you will cook, clean, and do anything else they ask of you. A roof over your head, a bedroom, delicious food, and daily cleaning are all guaranteed. You might resign and return to us ready to be bought again if clients don't provide you with these things.

30% of the money generated during this exchange will be paid to you, which you can use any way you like.

Please wear the wristband that has been allocated to you; it will be removed when you are purchased.

Have fun selling!

My initial reaction upon seeing the letter was one of rage. I was furious that women were being sold in this way, and I was also furious. Then I couldn't figure out how I got into this predicament.

I felt this way for a time before deciding that this wouldn't be so horrible after all. As long as I continued to work, all I was doing was cleaning for others and being paid for it. Before I left and prepared to be bought, I reasoned that it couldn't be all horrible.

And now here I was. For the eighth time in four years, I was assured I would be bought again. The concept didn't seem all that horrible at first, but after dealing with a number of owners, I discovered that some people weren't typical.

I had some quite terrible owners, some of whom were similar to Paul, and I wasn't ready to possibly live that way once more. The friendliest owner I'd had in a long time was Mr. Bain.

He was a man in his late thirties, with a clean shaved face and salt and pepper hair. He was well-built and attractive for his age. I knew he wasn't a sick pervert who would take advantage of me for more than just my housekeeping because he had a wife whom he loved. Additionally, he had two young children: a seven-year-old boy and a ten-year-old daughter.

"We can't keep you any longer, Selina, even though I realize it could be difficult for you. Since your company is here, we really can't take you with us when we move to England." Mr. Bain kept scowling at me.

"Selina, you have won our affection, and the children adore you. Although it is unfortunate, we must let you leave. Mrs. Bain added, smiling sadly at me.

I let out a sorrowful sigh before respectfully nodding my head. "I understand, it's all right. When can I expect to be returned? Quietly, I asked.

"First thing in the morning tomorrow. When we arrive, we will sign all the documents, bid you farewell, and then let you handle things on your own." Mr. Bain stated politely but directly. That's just the kind of man he was, even though the two words were in conflict. Despite his bluntness, he was courteous and friendly.

"Yes sir, I'll go and pack my things now then." As I left the spacious marble kitchen, I murmured, keeping my hands at my sides.

"Selina, would you like some help?" Before I had a chance to ascend the spiral staircase, Mrs. Bain called as she approached the bottom of the stairs and smiled warmly at me.

"No, Mrs. Bain, thank you. I am capable of doing it on my own. Giving her a tight-lipped smile, I informed her nicely before going upstairs to my designated room.

I opened the door by placing my hand on the glass handle. I let out a frustrated sigh as I entered the room where I had been residing for nearly a year.

I was reluctant to leave and return there! I enjoyed the shifts I was given here, my room, and the folks I was living with. Even though my uniform wasn't as short and low-necked as all the others my previous owners made me wear, I still liked it. I was able to avoid wearing heels and thigh-high stockings around the home because the black dress was barely above my knees. I could comfortably perform my duties if I wore my black pumps.

The decor of the quite spacious room they provided me was light pink, and the bedding and curtains were the same shade but made of satin. I had just enough room for everything I needed, and everything matched. I had my vanity, too. I never required it; I just did my hair and applied a little mascara and lip balm now and again.

I believe this was the best place I have ever lived. One family treated me similarly in the past, but that relationship ended quickly because they were unable to continue to support me.

I went into my closet and did what I had done countless times before: I put the clothes I did have in the big bag I had and took anything valuable with me. Since I no longer owned that much, it didn't take me long. Over the years, I have misplaced or damaged items and never had the opportunity to replace them.

The necklace I wore around my neck, a silver heart with a tiny sapphire stone in the center, was the only item I managed to retain in perfect condition. It was a gift from my father when he was living. That was all I really remembered about him.

I was thinking when someone knocked on my door.

"Come in," I said right away, removing my hands from the jewelry I had been tinkering with unconsciously.

"Hello, Selina." As she walked into my room, Mrs. Bain said.

"Good evening, Mrs Bain." When I had finished packing, I got up from the chair I had been sitting on and grinned while nodding at her.

She laughed and said, "I told you, you can call me Harriet." She had said this to me nearly every time she spoke. I suppose I simply forgot; I wasn't being annoying.

"Sorry Mrs- I mean Harriet." Sheepishly, I said. Look.

"No need to apologize." Mrs. Bain, or Harriet, as I prefer to call her, answered.

I couldn't think of anything else to say, so I gave her an odd smile. It was she, not me, who entered the room.

"Oh, yeah. Since you should have some time to yourselves to get ready for tomorrow, I simply come to inform you that you are off duty for the remainder of the evening." She flattened her scarlet, form-fitting dress and told.

She had sparkling blue eyes and was about Mr. Bain's age, if not younger. She was a really attractive woman. Her hair was always styled to perfection, and she was always wearing a dress or skirt. I was also treated very kindly by Harriet. She treated me nicely and was almost like a mother figure to me.

"Are you certain? If you like, I can clean up a bit more. It's not an issue. I made an offer.

"Don't be foolish, please. Since we got you, this property has never been dirty, and you already have plenty to think about. I would say it's always clean. She put a hand on my shoulder and laughed.

"Well, thank you, Harriet." She simply gave me a sorrowful grin and a pitying expression when I smiled at her.

With a worried tone, she inquired, "Are you going to be okay, Selina?"

"I'll be fine," I said a falsehood. The answer to that query was unknown to me.

"I'm so sorry, honey, to have to say goodbye. If you ever need assistance or just someone to talk to, you have both Mr. Bain's and my number. Suddenly sounding serious, Harriet continued, "I'm sure that if anything...goes wrong." "Mr Bain will sort it out for you and we will help the best we can," she said to me.

They couldn't do much if they lived in England, but I'm sure she was being serious.

In any case, I smiled and said, "Yes, thank you very much," appreciating her kind comment. You guys have shown me nothing but kindness, and I will always be appreciative of it." It was accurate. I would be extremely appreciative of their generosity.

"You are a wonderful girl, Selina, and one day you will get every lovely thing that you deserve," Harriet said, blinking back the tears that seemed to start to fill up in her eyes. She said, "I promise you that right now," and then she reached out to hug me.

Uncomfortably, I leaned forward and hugged her in response. I wasn't used to this level of human interaction, so at first, I felt a little uncomfortable, but after a while, I felt calm and at ease.

After a little while, Mrs. Bain released her embrace and gave me another smile.

Before turning to head for the door, she said, "I'll leave you to rest, and do whatever it is you need to do."

"All right. Once more, I want to thank Harriet for everything. I gave her a gentle grin.

She began, "No, thank you, Selina." Mrs. Bain closed the door and left the room after saying, "Good night, sweetie."

I said softly, "Night."

I let out a contented sigh. I felt a little better after that talk.

I noticed that it was only half past eight when I checked the clock in my room. I knew I would have a busy day tomorrow, so even though it was early, I thought it would be best to put on my pajamas and go to bed.

One I was afraid of.

After putting on my nightgown and brushing my teeth in my room's en suite, I climbed into the double bed, which had the loveliest sheets and pillows ever.

I put my head on the pillow and pondered deeply, wondering what the following day would bring and how my life would unfold.

I would not be shocked if it didn't, but I hope it does. I felt like life was always against me.

"But Selina, who's going to plait my hair as pretty as you do?" The ten-year-old girl broke down in tears.

The younger boy cried out, "And who's going to cut the crusts off my sandwiches?"

"I'm sure your mommy could do your hair just as pretty Emilia," I said. "and Theo remember how I told you the crusts were good for you!" The two kids in front of me were so heartbroken that I couldn't help but smile.

Emilia and Theo, the two children of Mr. and Mrs. Bain, had won my heart, and I was sorry to have to part with them. Over the past year, I've seen them develop and go through a lot with them, such as when Emilia learned to ride her bike without stabilizers and when Theo got his first tooth last year.

Emilia's lower lip trembled. She sniffed and then abruptly embraced me, nearly knocking me back onto their front door. "I'm going to miss you a lot, Selina."

"Me too! "Me too!" Theo imitated, following suit.

With one hand on Emilia's back and the other on Theo's wavy brown head of hair, I felt tears threatening to spill forth.

I patted them, hoping to calm them, and they sobbed silently into my clothing.

"Come on, boys. Shh. I'll try to give you a call once a week while you're in England, but you'll be alright without me." I said, hoping they wouldn't notice, with a hint of fake optimism in my voice. I couldn't watch them this depressed, but I also couldn't offer them anything.

"Promise?" Theo's youthful, bright brown eyes glowed with anticipation as he abruptly gazed up at me.

I thought, "Oh God, this is what I was avoiding."

"Yeah, do you promise Selina?" Emilia's expression remained the same as she gazed up at me, but her eyes were dark green and flecked with fluttering lashes.

I hesitated for a second because I couldn't tell them the truth without making them even more angry, but I also couldn't lie to them. Instead of going with the latter, I lied by saying, "I promise." As I uttered the words, I winced. Despite my guilt, I had to do it.

They all said, "Good!" and gave each other another embrace before their parents entered the living room.

"Now, now kids you must let go of the poor girl - give her some space." Mrs. Bain looked at us and shook her head, revealing the smile she had been suppressing.

"It's fine really." I was hesitant when speaking.

When Mr. Bain said, "Your mother's right kids," he lifted his head from his phone and tucked it into his blazer. "We have to get a move on anyway, Selina." He said, then turned to face me.

"Oh, right yes of course." As I carefully withdrew my arms from the kids, I hesitantly whispered, "Come on guys, I've got to go now." I leaned down and smiled sadly at them as I muttered.

"Okay." Theo scowled. He told me, "We will miss you a whole bunch!" and gestured with his little arms to show how much they would miss me.

"Yeah, we will." I laughed as Emilia backed him up.

"I'll miss you guys too..." I gave them another smile before turning to face Mr. and Mrs. Bain and giving them a look that seemed to convey what was about to happen.

"I'll be taking you to...the company," Mr Bain said. "while Mrs Bain waits here with the kids, I'll sign the paperwork make sure you get in alright and I'll be on my way." He informed me.

I picked up my luggage from the floor and nodded in agreement.

"I'll meet you in the car, Selina." Before circling me and leaving via the front door, Mr. Bain gave me a tight-lipped smile.

"Goodbye, thank you for letting me serve you." I formally informed Mrs. Bain.

She hugged me again and said, "It's been a pleasure having you." She gave me a reassuring slap on the back and said, "Remember what I told you yesterday." Then she released her grip and grinned at me again.

I gave a nod. "Yes. Farewell, Harriet. I returned the smile. "Bye, kids." They sniffled glumly back as I waved at them.

As I was leaving, Mrs. Bain cried out, "Good luck."

I thought, Boy, was I going to need it.

****

"Mr Bain, I wasn't expecting you back!" As we entered the peculiar building, I heard Leonardo's voice, which I knew well.

Before he moved aside and spoke, I stood behind Mr. Bain to hide from him.

He shook Leonardo's hand firmly and said, "Yes, well we can no longer keep Selina - despite her brilliant work ethic - as we are moving away."

Leonardo followed suit, and after they were done, his countenance brightened as he turned to face me.

"My dear Selina! To my annoyance, he grabbed me and hugged me, saying, "I'm glad to see you again."

I held my arms tightly at my sides until he released his hold and arched an eyebrow at me. At that moment, I understood that he wanted me to be courteous around Mr. Bain, but there was little use in it because Mr. Bain already knew that I didn't like him.

"You too, sir." I tried not to roll my eyes as I spoke through clenched teeth.

He looked me up and down and grinned at me as if he was proud of himself. After a brief period of stillness, Mr. Bain cleared his throat and spoke.

He said courteously, "So, can we get to signing the paperwork then?"

Yes, without a doubt. Mr. Bain, follow me. Leonardo murmured, motioning for us to follow him.

Following the two men, I kept my head down as we made our way through the spacious corridors crowded with businessmen, some of whom were waiting to make a purchase and others who were going to enter the talent room.

I disregarded the eyes that seemed to be on me. Staring back would not help you, and I was accustomed to it here. I've heard the phrase "know your place" countless times.

After a few twists and turns, we came to the long, thin corridor that led to Leonardo's office, which was only a few meters below.

Then, as we arrived at the door and entered, we stopped.

"Enter now. "Selina, close the door behind you," Leonardo said.

Following instructions, I entered the relatively large office. The interior walls were burgundy, and the floors were composed of dark brown wood. A massive Apple Mac computer, documents, and other stationary goods were all on Leonardo's large, oak desk.

I knew he had never read any of the books on his bookshelf. He was a jerk, but the office was pleasant.

I sat down on the leather chair across from his desk, which was also where Mr. Bain sat.

As the men discussed topics I didn't fully comprehend, I sat there and fidgeted. After getting fired or quitting, I was then asked the standard questions I would encounter in this chamber. Among the questions Leonardo posed to me were: Did you have a good time there?

Did you receive good treatment?

Did you always treat people with respect?

Have you ever done something improperly?

I answered each one how I believed it should be replied. Leonardo told me to itch my arm if I wasn't answering the questions honestly because I was afraid that my former owners, who were present at the moment, might hurt me or something. He would then ask me about it after the man had left and dealt with the matter.

But I don't think he did; I'd heard him tell a guard once that he didn't care how his maids were treated as long as they were kept "pretty."

Asshole, like I mentioned.

We were done once Mr. Bain completed signing the documents he needed to sign. I signed the bottom of the paper, which didn't make a difference but was required of me.

Leonardo began, "Well, that settles it," smiling with delight, "you're officially back on the market Selina."

I was once referred to as his 'top seller' by him. He appeared convinced, but I didn't trust him.

"Yes, and she best be treated well." Mr. Bain said sharply, and as we all made our way back to the office door, I gave him an appreciative look.

"Oh, she will be, don't you worry sir." Once more, I suppressed the impulse to roll my eyes as Leonardo told him as he led the way out of the office and opened the door.

"Good, I best be going now then." As we started to make our way back to the main corridor, Mr. Bain spoke.

"Yes, Mr. Bain, it was a pleasure to get to know you again. Make sure to return and make another purchase if you ever move back to the area. Leonardo added his voice.

"Yes, I will be sure to come back and hire, somebody..." Mr. Bain emphasized the word "hire" and expressed disapproval of the establishment's store-like atmosphere, but he came because it promised excellent service, which it accomplished.

In an attempt to conceal the sudden unease, he must have felt, Leonardo nodded and smiled at Mr. Bain while scratching his neck awkwardly.

Then, when we got closer to the entrance once more, Mr. Bain kept talking and turned to face me. "Selina, thank you for your service. Then he leaned down to my height so I could hear the next part of his sentence: "And if you ever need anything, or any help don't hesitate to call." "Hopefully we can stay in contact," he said.

"It's been a delight working for you sir," I said "and I will." A lot more subtly, I added.

He gave me a smile and said, "See you, Selina." He then turned to Leonardo and said, "Goodbye, Mr. Rascone." He waved a bit before turning around and leaving.

"Bye, now Mr. Bain." As Leonardo left the building, he called.

As I watched him go, I let out a sorrowful sigh. Now that it was official, I was 'for sale' and no longer employed by anyone.

Fantastic.

Fantastic.

Leonardo started to say, "Selina," but I immediately turned back to him and gave him a knowing glance.

"I know what to do." I let out a sigh.

"Well done, girl. He smirked and gave me a wink before leaving me to find my own way to the rooms. "Be ready for three PM, I'll meet you here then," he said.

There was a long hallway of rooms, and I was always allocated to the same one, so I went quickly towards them while keeping my head down and my bag slung loosely over my shoulder. They had a closet, a mirror, and a small single bed in case you weren't purchased throughout the day. Oh, and a television that was most likely manufactured during the conflict. Wonderful touch, isn't it?

After going around a few more corners and past several odd folks, I came to the corridor lined with rooms. I walked over to my designated room, number 32, and took out the key I always kept for it.

They must have known I would never leave the company since they gave me a key to retain, albeit I'm not sure why. I would have nothing, no money, no work, and nowhere to go if I couldn't.

Nothing had changed when I opened the room's door. The bed linens remained the same simple white color, and the walls remained dark blue. They even prepared my uniform, which I needed to wear in order to be purchased. We were able to somewhat personalize each girl's uniform, so each one was unique.

To enable me to bend over without being nearly nude, I managed to get Leonardo to lengthen mine and raise the neck a bit. I believe he harbored affection for me.

Since there would be little use in unpacking, I placed my luggage on the bed without bothering. After that, I removed my black dress and put on the maid's uniform that was hanging in the open closet.

I pulled it down and flattened it out; I'm still not entirely happy with the mid-thigh length, but it might work. Before I did anything to my hair or makeup, I put on the black heels they had left for me and the lace stockings.

Normally, I didn't do anything, but Leonardo demanded that I do it or else I would appear unattractive and washed out.

I exhaled as I moved to the mirror and started to untangle my long, dark brown, almost black hair. Since I hadn't used heat on my hair in years, it was in really good shape and now hung only a few inches above my waist.

If I had worn it in plaits the day before, it would have only looked half decent down; in its natural form, it was halfway between straight and wavy. In order to keep it out of my face, I opted to leave it down and insert a black headband.

After that, I looked at myself in the mirror. My emerald eyes were drained and agitated, and there were small bags under them, most likely from the lack of sleep I had been getting virtually every night. I couldn't exactly explain why my complexion was so pale just now, but it must have been the cold temperature because my cheeks were tinted pink.

I moved to my bed and pulled out my little makeup bag. Since my eyebrows were already dark enough, I chose to leave them alone. Then, to lessen the redness and partially conceal the bags under my eyes, I applied concealer and powder. I next took out my mascara and applied a thin coat on my lashes, which were already rather long. My lips were reddish pink and already rather big without lipstick, but they were also a little dry from not using enough lip balm in the cold. To give them a little improved appearance, I thought I would put some lip gloss on them.

When I was done, I sighed with satisfaction; I wasn't thrilled with the result, but it was better than before.

I wasn't saying I was unattractive since I had other things to worry about besides appearances, or whatever it is that people worry about these days, but I wasn't exactly the most attractive person in the world.

My eyes, which were a vivid emerald green hue that I got from my father, were the one significant feature that set me apart from the rest.

It was almost 2:45 when I checked the big clock on the wall. Then, I reasoned, I should go on.

I left my belongings in the room, straightened my dress, and pulled my stockings up again. Someone would come and grab it for me if I was bought.

I opened the door and inhaled deeply, feeling quite anxious, even though I knew I would have to accept whatever was going to happen because I couldn't control it.

I said, Let's do this.

"Selina, just on time." Back in the corridor where we had been, which was still very crowded, Leonardo yelled as I walked up to him.

"So, where do you want me?" Self-consciously pushing my skirt down and looking around anxiously, I spoke fast and directly to the subject. I detested these skimpy clothes.

He smirked mischievously and looked directly at me as he added, "Normally, I'd just have you in the main room with all of the other maids - but today I'm debating whether or not to put you in private...or talent."

No, God. Talent was far worse than private, which I didn't mind because that was typically reserved for very wealthy men who, while they might not treat you the best, would pay you the most and only let five or six maids in the room.

It wasn't what it sounded like; I wanted I could have done a dog dance or some stand-up comedy. Regretfully, no-it was a chamber where you were required to dance to or sing a suggestive tune.

Although I had never been inside, I had heard some of the girls who used to participate describe it as terrible. You would essentially be humiliated in front of a group of middle-aged, perverted males while wearing gaudy clothes.

I thought that sounded terrible.

"Pl-please can I go into private then." I stumbled over my words and made a whispered suggestion.

For a second, Leonardo gave me a funny look, and I had a hunch that he would do the exact opposite of what I had asked. Luckily, he was feeling upbeat today, I guess.

"Yes," he said with a sigh, "if you want. Selina's best behavior, though. Today, we have some extremely significant guests. I was warned by Leonardo. That I wouldn't have to go inside the talent room made me sigh with relief.

I said, "Thank you," with gratitude, "and who is it?" I asked.

"Now, now Selina were you never taught that curiosity killed the cat?" He laughed and shook his head condescendingly at me before speaking very gravely. "It doesn't matter who they are, you just need to know to be extra...nice." Then Leonardo winked and said something suggestive.

I understood exactly what he meant.

"Okay." I nodded my head and squeaked.

As he started to hurry into the private area, he said to me, "Good girl, let's get going. The guests will be arriving soon, and you need to help the others set up and then get in your stand."

Even though he had already moved forward, I nodded and hurried to catch up.

The ' special guest' hadn't picked me, I sincerely hoped. Leonardo's advice to treat whoever was coming a lot nicer implied that they were typically either extremely wealthy or powerful, or in the worst case, both.

Fortunately, I had never been taken to the private rooms before, and they would just be there.

Perhaps it wouldn't be so horrible.

****

There were no seats at that particular table because it was primarily used for food, so I finished setting out a variety of food on the long table covered with a lace cloth.

Since it was a more elegant and private space, there wouldn't be many servants or visitors, so the room was somewhat modest.

There was a bar where people could sit and order drinks, as well as a few tables and chairs, were strewn about, but as I mentioned before, not many were needed because it wouldn't be a very busy event.

Black and white marble made up the majority of the room's interior decor; the bar and floors were also marble. However, both the table and the shelves behind the bars that held the booze were made of silver.

When we maids weren't called upon, we had to stand in another silver area. Each of us was given a little, silver square platform to stand on, which resembled a stage. We were instructed to clasp our hands together and remain silent until we were ready to be bought or asked for a favor.

After setting down the final tray of food, I leaned back up from the table and flipped my hair back out of my face.

I started to pull away and recognized right away that I had just bumped into someone.

"I'm so sorry I..." I turned to face a gorgeous blond girl and started.

She had a blond haircut that framed her face, and she was a few inches taller than me (5'1 in heels). The girl appeared to be a few years older than I was, and her light hair and dark blue eyes contrasted nicely. She didn't have much makeup on her eyes, and her lips were painted a rich shade of scarlet. Additionally, her uniform and mine were rather identical, albeit there were some noticeable differences. The top was a few inches shorter than the skirt and was not a single piece of clothing. In addition, she was wearing heels that were higher than mine. To put it mildly, the girl was really attractive.

"No, don't apologize it was my fault!" She gave a sheepish smile.

I bowed my head and smiled tightly, unsure of what else to say and wondering if I should leave.

Abruptly, she blurted, "I'm Bonnie." "What's your name?" Bonnie's voice was upbeat.

"Selina," I replied with a simple smile.

"I suppose I haven't seen you here before, but it's good to meet you, Selina. Are you brand-new? Bonnie inquired inquisitively.

I've been employed by this organization for about four years. I was just...purchased a year ago." I looked around and said honestly, not intending to be impolite, but simply feeling nervous because I hadn't spoken to a girl my age in a long time.

"Oh! That's intriguing," she remarked, sounding sincere. "Even though I've only been here a year, I've already visited people's homes a lot. I can't be that good. It made the blonde girl laugh.

Smiling at her too-upbeat demeanor, I replied, "I see," with a breathy giggle. "Um...I'm not trying to be rude but why did Leonardo let you into the private room then?" Quietly, I asked.

"It's okay, I would have the same question. It's just that even though I get rid of things quickly, I get great feedback." She smirked at me, and I scowled before my eyes widened.

I murmured, "Oh..." because I was at a loss for words.

Bonnie continued talking without seeming to be bothered or aware of my awkward reaction. "Did Leonardo mention this ' special guest' to you? He sounds frightening. Bonnie spoke softly, as though she was taking care to avoid being overheard.

"Yeah he told me there would be somebody important coming, but he didn't really go into detail." I clarified.

"Well, I heard that this guy is pretty rich and very, very powerful and a source not to be messed with according to Leonardo." Bonnie now seemed concerned as she told me, "Although, don't say I told you - I only overheard this conversation from Leonardo with one of his men."

"Don't worry your secrets are safe with me." I gave her a comforting smile.

"Well done! She smiled at me and said, "I already like you."

"You too," I responded, and I did-I was beginning to get to know her. She seemed kind and sincere thus far, but I wasn't saying we would exactly have a sleepover and plait each other's hair because you can never really tell from first impressions and people can be acting fake.

"Do you thi-" Bonnie started, and then we heard a man clearing his throat, followed by the deafening ringing of a microphone being dropped or turned on.

I heard the words, "Maids, please go to your stands and position yourselves," coming from the upper corner of the room where the speakers were located. Soon, the visitors will be allowed entry. Always remember to answer with respect and to be courteous. When someone asks for you, you approach them without protesting and inquire about their needs. If you want to be purchased, you won't be summoned; instead, a staff member will go with the person who wants to buy you, take you with them, and give you any belongings in your room as you prepare to depart for your scheduled destination." After Leonardo's voice burst through the speakers, there was a brief buzzing sound from the speakers, followed by several mumbled complaints from the girls in the room.

"Remember the rules girls." He cautioned, "Now, have fun - which I know you will - and break a leg." His voice resurfaced abruptly, and the sounds ceased. Leonardo finished just as the sound abruptly stopped.

Bonnie let out a sigh. "Well, the dude told you. Let's get started.

"I guess so." I smiled slightly and shrugged before moving to my platform, which was conveniently adjacent to hers.

Before we heard the big doors open, she turned to face me and mouthed, "Good luck." I gave her a quick smile and a nod that seemed to say, "You too."

I stood as instructed, and then all of a sudden, the doors opened fully, allowing staff workers and a sizable number of males to enter.

I was instantly drawn to the first visitor, and I had a sneaking suspicion that he was a man not to be

trifled with...