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Five Years Ago.

The room smelled of booze, and stale cigarette smoke, and it turned the eighteen-year old's stomach. This was the first time she was alone with a so-called client. Her heart was racing, and the outfit she had chosen for the night didn't seem to suit her at all. That's when the door opened, and her client walked into the room. He was a tall man, with a handsome face, and those hands she wanted nothing more than to be on her already. She batted her light grey eyes at the male as she leaned back into the chair and crossed her legs. She saw the way his eyes moved down her body, and to her crossed legs. Just that look made her heart flutter. "How old are you?" he asked her, finally breaking the silence.

"I just turned eighteen about six months ago. I was told you liked your workers young, but not to the point of getting you thrown into jail" she said lightly. The male smirked a bit as he moved over to the desk, and he leaned against it crossing his arms over his chest. "You are in deed correct about that. How many men have you been with? Or did the man that took you in from the black market, not let you around many?" The blonde woman was slightly surprised at all of his questions, but she kept her cool about it. Was he trying to scare her or something? Or was he just a curious mind? Whatever the reason, she wasn't about to let him down at all.

"I've been trained on how to please a man, and in all honesty, this is the first time I'm alone with someone else. I normally have another woman with me, but Dominick thought it was the perfect time for me to try this whole thing alone." she breathed out. The male nodded lightly, he seemed to like her answer. He moved around the desk and sat in the huge chair. He then beckoned her over to him. "This is going to be the real test. Show me what you've been taught, and I'll think about buying you for good" he said. That made the woman's heart race inside of her chest. This was really happening right now. She pushed herself up and moved towards him.

When she was right in front of him, she let the male make the first move. That's what's been drilled into her brain for the longest time. Let the man, or men make the first move. Let them touch you, excite you, and then you can work your own magic on them. "I hope Dominick warned you that I like it rough. I do tend to leave bruises on my slaves, and make them do things you wouldn't even think was possible" he breathed out. The woman nodded lightly and bit the inside of her cheek. "He had warned me yes, and I'm more than willing to do anything it takes to please you" she nearly whispered. "That's my girl" he said and grabbed her wrist.

He wasn't too hard with her just then, but she was preparing for it anyway. The male pulled her into his lap, and what she felt there made her heart race, and her cheeks flare up. She hadn't had someone so well built like him. The feeling of his hands on her skin sent shivers down her spine, and she locked her eyes on his letting him get used to the feel of her body. He leaned over and brushed her hair away from her neck, and pressed his lips to the hollow part of her neck. He then bit down as it marking what was his. That's when he started getting rough with her. He gripped her hips and pushed himself up against her, the feeling was something new for the woman, and she didn't know how to feel about it.

As the male undressed her, and himself along the way she knew this wasn't right. She heard the male open a drawer and pull out a knife. "What the hell are you doing?" she asked. The male looked at her and smirked a bit. "What? Dominick didn't tell you I'm into blood play? Bondage? Everything you haven't been trained to do yet?" he asked. She shook her head, and tried to get away from the male. He wrapped his arm around her waist and leaned forward whispering into her ear. "I mark what's mine, so that way men won't try and take what's not theirs. Don't worry Dominick will get a pretty penny for you" he said, and then bit down onto her neck.

She felt the tip of the blade on her back, and she winced as he sliced it down her back. Then he moved the blade up her right shoulder, and that's when she let out a scream. The door flew open and Dominick was in the room pulling the blonde away from Rodney. She was thrown onto the floor and she didn't see anything else that happened. She gathered up her things and ran out of the room blood running down her back, leaving small droplets as she ran out of the room, and hopefully away from the nightmare she was almost sold into.

 

Present Day.

It's been five years since the woman had gotten away from Dominick and his crew. She was now twenty-three and she had made the biggest move of her life. She was happier in a way. She had a nice apartment, money clear up to her ears, and a life she loved more than anything. At least that's what she's been telling herself. She didn't know what it was like to be a normal woman. She had been sold to the black market the moment she had been born. Her mother wanted the high, more than she wanted the daughter she had given birth too. Evangeline's whole life was fucked up thanks to her mother and the choice she had made.

While she had been growing up, she was told that it was her job to please men in all ways possible. She didn't think she would have grown up becoming a sex slave, but she had. The moment she had gotten wind about Rodney, and how everyone else didn't want anything to do with him, she had told Dominick she would do it. Dominick was so power hungry, and needed the highest paying client he didn't care who he hurt. The night that Evangeline was almost branded with Rodney's so called markings had been the night that Dominick knew something was off. He had just arrived when she had let out that blood curdling scream, and he went into action.

That had also been the night she started working in strip clubs, telling Dominick that she wanted the highest paying clients, and to make sure he had done some checking into them. She had told herself she would move out of the country and start over new. She had read somewhere on the internet about the Red-Light District in Amsterdam and she knew that's where she wanted to go. Took her almost five years to get here, and here she was. She sighed lightly as she looked at herself in the mirror. Tonight was going to be another bidding night. She was kind of excited, but at the same time wasn't.

She wanted to meet someone that she could somehow click with. Someone who would take the time to talk to her, and then after they slept together she could just up and leave and go to the next highest bidder. There was a knock on her door and she turned around to face it. "Door's open, come on in" she called out. That's when her door opened and Monica walked into the room a smile on her face. "There's so many men out there! Some of them are really fucking yummy too! How high are you planning on going tonight?" she asked plopping down onto the couch. Evangeline shrugged a bit and turned back to the mirror.

"Honestly, I'm not sure. I mean whomever has the most money I suppose. But that's up to Daniel anyway. He's the one who does all of the bidding" she said with a small laugh. Monica rolled her eyes and then licked her lips. "God I would love to feel that man inside of me, but he doesn't sleep with his hired employees. I'm thinking about leaving this place after tonight, and taking him with me. Or at least trying to get him to sleep with me. I wanna go back home and see momma and daddy" the other admitted. The two talked awhile longer while Evangeline got ready for the night. About an hour later she was changed, and her hair was done.

Tonight's choice of outfit was a pair of black lacy panties, and a matching bra. The heels she slipped onto her feet matched it perfectly. Monica was already to go, and the two went out into the hallway and made their way to their so called windows. She could hear Daniel talking, and her heart hammered against her chest. "Here we go. I'll see you tomorrow boo" she said and blew the other a kiss. Monica then dipped out, and the blonde stepped up to the window. She then slipped behind the curtain's and waited for them to open up. As they did she posed, and looked out at the crowd in front of her.

Monica hadn't been lying. Tonight was going to be interesting. "Gentleman, I would like to tell you a little bit this little blonde bombshell here. She's spunky, and a down to earth woman. I've been told she gives mind blowing sex, and honestly she's one of the best one's here. I know a lot of you can tell me that I'm right. Tonight the bidding will be starting at two thousand and fifty dollars" he said. Shit she hadn't been that high in forever, and it felt good when she heard the men start throwing out numbers. She kept repositioning herself, letting the men get an eye full as Daniel kept taking bids. Her eyes moved to one of the men in the crowd and her heart skipped a beat.

He wasn't that much older than she was, and he was a new face. At least to her he was. Men were still shouting out numbers, and apart of her hoped the new face would bid. She wasn't going to get her hopes up though. She smiled a bit, as she tossed her hair over her shoulder, getting whistles from the men in return. She kept it up waiting to see who the lucky male was going to be taking her home for the evening.

Five years ago.

Kai Jansen had been living from day to day. In the moment. For the thrill. He was no stranger to prostitutes. Something about it felt wrong, unmoral even. At the time, he loved it. It washed away the pain. As most things he did around this time affected him. The Red Light District was an ideal spot for someone of his type to go. Someone who thought they were unworthy, or just couldn't find a partner. Kai knew he had the looks. Shit, even random girls threw themselves at him. After all, he was well set. Often, he ran or did calisthenics, to keep up shape. A few years of this caused him to become pretty cut. 

He had so much money he didn't know what to do with it.

The inheritance he received was a large sum of money. Enough to last multiple generations. What did he spend it on? Drugs and sex. It was all h lived for. The only thing that made him feel alive.

On that fateful day, his view and eventually life, changed.

As normal, he visited the local whore house. It didn't feel the same. Was there something in the drink? No...Couldn't be it. Kai was stingy about that type of stuff. He just had a realization. The girl didn't know anything other than sex. She thought it was all she could do. At the worst time he realized this though, they were at it for a while.

“Stop...This isn't right.”

“Am I not pleasing you, sir?!”

Just as he thought. The girl was scared. He was a demon for endorsing this type of thing.

“Let me see your boss. I'll get you out of this hellhole.”

That was the last time in years he had been near anything related to prostitution. Yet, it seemed to consume the world around him. He let that girl free, but he didn't help her adjust…

He was only 19 and had lived most of his life as an orphan. In a manor with no one but him and servants. No one to talk to. No one to comfort him. Not even to help him. They all did the bare minimum to keep him alive. Other than his butler. Jean…He must be so disappointed.

Present day.

"Damn, guilt is a bitch." is what Kai said to his butler as he was preparing to head to the famed, Red-Light District.

“Well sir, it's only natural. Empathy is an essential emotion to have. Without it, people are savages.”

“Like I once was.”

His butler, Jean, decided to stay quiet. He knew the young master long enough to see when he was upset, and when he wasn't going to take advice. Once he looked adequately ready, Kai grabbed the keys to his Bentley. There was no going back. This would change his life. Better or worse. at least there's only two ways it can go…right?

Kai preferred to be alone and drive himself. Once he got there and found a safe place to park, to his surprise, it was a busy street. Had the world fallen so far? In frustration, he rubbed his eyes and grabbed a cigarette. Lighting it and puffing it for a minute before he headed completely in. Seemed like the ladies lived here…what a shitty spot to be in. An announcer called out. Auction was starting. Looking at the blonde on the platform, it reminded him of pictures in schools of slave auctions. It absolutely disgusted him. Men started roaring. Willing to pay $2,050? They certainly looked like they had mouths to feed. Probably insurance money or some shit. No way they had that in spare change.

Something caught his attention. He felt like he was being watched. Looking around, Kai eventually realized it was the prostitute. His heart sank. 

Shit...so soon?

The bidding was getting up to 5,000 now. She seemed flattered. Kai seemed revolted. Stomping out his cigarette, he shouted a random number. 

“10,236.”

Someone outbid that. Had to be a governor or something. Some creepy old fart, for sure. The auctioneer's eyes got wide. As if prompting them to keep going.

“110,984”

The entire street went silent. The cops looked at him, some were impressed, others disgusted. Shit. Did he say that too loud? Hopefully he didn't get jumped. In a case, he had over 200,000 with him. It was by his feet at the time. Relief hit him as he realized it was still there.

“SOLD FOR JUST SHY OF 111 THOUSAND, TO THE MAN IN THE TIE.”

He did it. Finally, he was going to make a change. Not only to impact himself, but someone else this time as well. The girl's jaw was dropped. Now that he examined her closer, he didn't blame the politician for trying to outbid him. It was a losing battle, though.

The auctioneer gestured for Kai to follow. He did so, keeping the case in a firm grip.

“So…You're new around here. Cash only.”

Kai smirked and slammed the case onto the desk he was brought to. After the tunnel of whores and such began to stare at him. He was sure some of them were jealous of the blondie. By the looks that were given, it was obvious.

“250k is in that case.”

Kai said, opening it to prove himself. Taking out a few stacks and pushing towards the greedy pig, he said. 

“Need I say more?”

 Kai made sure that the payment was exact. To the very last penny. 

“This girl's going to be with me, right? She better get packed.”

The man counted the stacks and nodded furiously.

“You heard him, whore.”

Kai didn't like the tone the man said it in. Brushing it off, he waited by the door for her. This time smoking a cigar.

“Follow. My car is around the corner. We'll talk more when we get there.”

he told her once she was all ready. Walking out, he led her to his Bentley. Stomping out the cigar, he opened the door to let her in the passenger side. Shortly after, he zoomed off to his manor. It was about a 15-minute drive.

Once he got there, he parked inside his garage which led conveniently led to the living room. Once more, he opened the door for her. It wasn't her fault she was like this. It was simply grooming. This life is all she knows. Kai was determined to change that.

Once he sat down on the couch, she tried to make a move. Kai denied such actions and told her, 

“You are not my sex slave. You're not property. And you sure as hell aren't mine. I bought you, to help. I want to teach you how to live in this fucked-up world and get by on your own. Personally, the business owners disgust me. I hate how they treat you workers…Anyways. First order of business is etiquette. Be up tomorrow around 9 a.m. I'll lead you to your room.”
It was happening. Each step up those stairs brought him closer to his goal.

Her room was the second on the left. His room's whereabouts would be unknown to her for now. Until progress is made. Until he could sleep without her trying to do her ‘job’. Nonetheless, he smiled and handed her a robe. 

“Have a good rest. You'll need it.”

He also handed her a phone. The only number in it so far was his, but he said feel free to add more. A gift for her troubles.

On his way to his room, he made sure she wasn't looking. A certain book had to be pulled in the living room, such as a lever would. That led to his room.

Evangeline was surprised at how much the bidding was going up. She didn't realize how popular she really was. She knew men enjoyed her company, and she would make it well worth it. When the final bid was put in her jaw dropped. The male in the crowd had bid quite a pretty penny for her. What the hell was he planning on doing with her? She knew she was good at pleasing men, but she didn't think she was worth that much. The light in her window went out, and the door behind her opened. Monica was standing there with pure shock on her face.

“Eve! You've got to be kidding me! A total stranger bid that much on you! When you come back, you better give me all of the details” she said. Evangeline was still in shock over what happened. That's when one of the bouncers walked up to her and took her arm. “You need to pack your bags. Looks like you're going to be gone for awhile with how much that lucky bastard paid for you” he said. Evangeline rolled her eyes and shook the man's hand off of her arm. “Don't touch me” she hissed. She went back to her room and packed her things.

She didn't know exactly how much she would need. so she packed up as much as she could. Soon she was standing in front of Daniel's office and she could hear the voices inside. Her heart hammered inside of her chest and the bouncer opened the door. “Here's the blonde bombshell you paid for” the male said. Evangeline rolled her eyes again as she looked between the three men. What was going to happen now? She didn't even know the handsome strangers name. He told her to follow him to her car, and she did.

Once she was tucked inside of the nice looking car she could feel herself start to relax against the seat she was sitting in. The drive didn't take too long and soon they were in front of a mansion. Her jaw dropped as she looked towards the male. “You really live here?” she breathed out. When the car was in park he came around to her side and opened her door. She was kind of surprised with the gesture. She wasn't complaining though. She climbed out of the car and grabbed her bag, wrapping her arms around it.

She followed him inside and looked around the huge place. She knew that she would need to get to work for the amount of money he paid her. Before she asked what he wanted her to do, he explained that she wouldn't be going back. She was free. Free? That's a word she's been dreaming of hearing for the longest time. Was this really happening? She bit her lip lightly as she nodded, letting him speak. She had her own room? She had to be up early? She sighed inwardly as she realized this male wasn't like everyone else.

He wasn't looking to get laid, he was looking for something else. Something she couldn't put her finger on. She followed him through the house and to her room. Her jaw dropped at the sight of the room. It was huge. It was breathtaking as well. The first thing she spotted was the bathroom that was adjoined to the room. She looked towards the male and nodded lightly. “Thank you so much. But this is too much.. You did pay a lot of money for me, and for what?” she asked. She was kind of surprised when he didn't even give her his name still.

Soon she was alone in the huge room. She shut the door behind her and started to explore the bedroom. She walked into the bathroom and was surprised to see a huge tub along with a shower. A smile passed over her lips as she walked over to the tub and turned on the water. She waited for it to heat up before she plugged up the drain. She found some bubble bath and added a little bit as well. The smell was wonderful. She was in for a treat. She slipped out of the bathroom once more.

She unzipped her bags and pulled out some pajama's and looked at the phone he had given her. She turned the phone one and went to the contacts. She spotted the man's name and number already there. The strangers name was Kai. He had left too soon for her to even give hers. She made a mental note to let him know her name in the morning. Right now she wanted to enjoy that bubble bath. She set an alarm for in the morning, left her bags on the bed, and went to slip into the hot bubble bath that was waiting for her.

Kai had to make sure he made all the right preparations. Her basic needs would be met, no doubt. How does she learn? Can she even read…or write? Similar thoughts ran through his head as he read in his study. It was down the hall from the girl's room, in fact.

Then he realized, 'I'm rushing it, aren't I?' Dammit. He didn't even get her name. It would be rude to keep calling her blondie. Kai kept reading. Books about this sort of stuff. Human trafficking victims, people like the girl he just took in. Other's expirences could give him a template to work with. 

Most of his night was spent fine-tuning a schedule and things they may need to work on. He should have asked her a few questions first, but that could happen after she was rested. One thing was for sure, this girl's life has been hell. 

Reading for most of the night caused Kai to fall asleep at his desk. At exactly 7:30, Jean stirred the young master. Urging him to get up and ready. Reluctantly, the young man bathed and wore something more casual. Just some grey sweats and a hoodie. Walking down the stairs, he grabbed a pen and pad to mark his progress. Because of his own foolishness, he'll have to wait for blondie to wake up so he can ask her name. It seemed as he got downstairs, he gravitated towards his coffee machine. Caffeine was his savior.

He asked Jean, “Did you fill her room with...less revealing clothes?”

“Yes sir. She has one dresser and half a closet of new clothes.”

“Perfect. I may have to bring her to things, don't want her throwing herself at all the rich pervs.”

After all, it was the only life she knew. Kai was determined to change that. Show her real life. Real feelings. Lead her to real love, hopefully.

Instead of letting the servants cook, he gave most of them vacation time. For blondie, he made pancakes, waffles, eggs, and bacon. He had no clue what they gave her jn that hellhole. Probably not enough. She looked like a few sandwiches would do her justice.

Once he was finished, he put a plate together for her but not himself yet. Sitting down at the long table, he began to scribble down some ideas. 

First, he needed to know if she could read or write. That is a crucial skill that he wouldn't be surprised if she lacked. 

Second, if she can do those things, etiquette and manners is a must. You can't just sleep with anyone…but she had the looks to be able to. Ugh, get your mind out of the dark!

Third, make sure she can control herself. Maybe they drugged her…there's no telling what people have done to her. Maybe she needed a checkup. Possibly a therapist as well.

That was all he wrote as he heard footsteps down the stairs. If he wasn't mistaken…was she wearing heels? What?! There's no way those are comfortable. Shit, he didn't get her any shoes…did he? First hour in, and two mess-ups already. Great.

In front of her, he began to realize how unready he looked in comparison to her. His hair was wet and messy. The bags under his eyes were deep, and he was in athletic clothes. Even though he wasn't jogging or anything. No, she's the one that's overdoing it.

“I will buy you new shoes. Until then, please wear socks. Those heels can't be comfortable. Also, you don't have to do your makeup or hair unless you absolutely want to. You have no one to impress here. Last thing that I forgot to mention yesterday. I. Will. Not. touch you. At all. Other than for two reasons, 1 being if you relapse and try to do your old job. 2 is if I believe you will hurt others or yourself. My name is Kai. Lovely to be able to help you.”

He was going to say work, but that could have triggered her. Truly, that's all he saw it as. She was a necessary test for others he may help in the future.

 Her food was still warm. Pulling her chair out for her, once she sat down he pushed it back in. 

“Ah, I'm a fool. What's your name? I was about to ask you a bunch of things, how rude of me!”

He said, moving his hair out of his face. If he hadn't worked on controlling his desires, he would have definitely bought her for sex. She was stunning, to say the very least. Everything about her was beautiful…but seemed emotionally damaged. That's what made him decide to do this. That day, 5 years ago. The girl he freed got captured again, bya different group. They moved her to the Middle East, and probably killed her off and sold her organs. The only reason he thought that, was he heard of a business like that growing nearby.

He was able to not give her weird looks. That was the old him. Instead, he looked at and treated her with respect. Diginity. Something she probably had never recieved.

“Eat as much as you can. Stuff your face. Like I said earlier, you're your own person now. I'm only here to help your transition to the normal world.”

Part of him pitied her for barely touching the food. What had this girl been through? Her eyes seemed empty. Everything she did wasn't her own action, just what she was taught to do. It made Kai's blood boil. On the outside, he just smiled as he looked over the paper. 

“I have no understanding of how you were raised, and I need to so I can best assist you. If you feel comfortable, please tell me about yourself.”. He began to chew on his pen. Waiting for her to decide. If she did, he'd take notes so he could better remember what is needed. If not, he'd respect her wishes for now. Eventually she would have to tell him. That is, if she wanted help.

As Evangline was enjoying her bath she couldn't help but wonder about Ginger and Monica. Where was Ginger? She wishe she had kept in touch with the woman. She sighed lightly wondering if she'd be able to call and get Monica's number. That's if Monica even had a phone. Evangline didn't have one and now that she was provided one, she didn't know what to do with it. She made a mental note to try and find some games or something to download. Unless Kai had other ideas for the phones use. She sighed as she sank into the water.

The Next Morning.

The sound of her alarm going off made the woman jump slightly. She was already awake and sitting in the middle of the bed. She had slept like a baby, but her body still woke her up. She wanted nothing more than to explore the house. She reached for the phone and shut the alarm off. She didn't want to upset Kai, so she slipped off the bed and walked over to her bag and unzipped it. She made a mental note to unpack it later. She found a pair of sweats and an over sized t-shirt. Her normal comfy clothes.

She pulled out a pair of ugg boots as well and set them on the floor. She undressed and folded her sleeping clothes and placed them under her pillow. She then sat on the edge of the bed and slipped her feet into the boots. She then made her way to the bathroom and turned on the water. She splashed cold water on her face and took a breath. It was kind of strange sleeping in a huge bed alone. She had her apartment back at the District and a queen size bed, but the bed she slept in here was a California King and she loved it.

When she was done washing her face she hurried and brushed her hair, didn't bother with any makeup and brushed her teeth. She then made her way out of the room and down the stairs. She could hear voices in what she hoped was the kitchen. She followed the voices and sure enough there was Kai at the table. She walked into the room and nodded lightly towards him. “Good morning” she said lightly as she moved to a chair. She was about to pull it out when Kai did. She was kind of surprised at that.

She sat down and put her hands into her lap. She looked down at the plate in front of her and her mouth watered. It's been ages since she's had food like this. She was about to start eating when Kai spoke. She raised a ‘brow slightly towards him. Did he really think she was that stupid? She cocked her head and bit the inside of her cheek. “My names Evangline, it’s a pleasure to meet you Kai” she said softly. As he spoke once more she held up a finger and cleared her throat.

“First off I'm not wearing heels, I'm wearing the most comfortable boot/slippers any woman could buy, but if you'd like I'll stick to wearing socks. As you can clearly see I'm not wearing any make up, and I'm dressed in comfortable clothes. Do you really think I'm that stupid? Why would I make my self uncomfortable? Just because I grew up as a prostuite doesn't mean I don't have manner's, and that I don't know how to carry myself. You have done nothing but assume since I got here. Not once have you asked anything about me.”

“Just because you are helping me, doesn't mean I don't know how to read and write. What would I relapse from? I've never done drugs. I've been offered so many times but I turn them down. I've seen what it does to people. When I was in the District I had a really nice apartment that I bought with my own money. I don't ever throw myself at men unless I'm working. As you can clearly tell I'm not. So why the hell would you assume all of that about me? That honestly makes me sick. You're just like every other man on this bloody planet” she snapped.

It might not have been wise to speak to the male like that, but he's done nothing but be little her since she walked in. She was clearly dressed comfortably, and she wasn't throwing herself at him. She cocked her head to the side as he said he wanted to know everything about her. She leaned back and crossed her arms over her chest. “Are you done assuming you know me, and the life I've lived? If so I'll be more than happy to tell you. But if you're just going to sit there assuing all this shit about me, I don't want your bloody help” she snapped. She could stand her ground when she needed too.

Her response made him smirk. It was a stupid question. Made an ass out of himself. All he did was hear the shoes, not look at them. What didn't help is that he is half deaf. Looking at her, she made a good point. An irrefutable one. Shaking his head, he said “You do have a point. It was my own ignorance that caused it. My apologies. Please tell me how I can help you. What you don't know, that you want to know. I have a library that you can check out. Lots of books. Also, if you do change your mind about drugs, I have them. My education of this field is mainly human trafficking. Is it safe to say you're not one who was a victim to that?”

He meant every word he said. Spoke with a confidence in his tone. As she spoke, even before her story, he was taking notes. Her mannerisms. Topics to avoid. Demeanor. Kai was never the best with social interaction. It showed in his conversation with Evangeline. He knew she was mad and that he caused it, but he had problems filtering out what was said.

Kai didn't really eat. Something had to stick out with her…right? Shaking his head once more, he let out a sigh.

You're just like every other bloody man on this planet.

That sentence rang through his head. Writing down the words “Hatred for men, feminism.” . He couldn't blame her for her view on men. After all that she's been through with them.

Kai realized he had a lot of studying to do. Not all prostitutes are people who were trafficked, dumbass. Some just need to pay the bills. For some, it's all they know how to.

Kai had negative views of women, because of his late mother. Since he didn't know a thing about her upbringing, he assumed it was her parents mixed with the clients.

There's no telling how long she'd been in this field. Apparently she was an expert. Once she finished her food, he picked up her plate and began to clean it.

Once that was over with, he put it on a drying rack and asked, “Anyone you knew you want me to get you in contact with? From the district or wherever you were before?”

Yawning, he nodded in her response. Acknowledging her is all he could do for now. His own social incompetence caused them to get off on the wrong foot.

Kai sighed as he looked over the notes. Another all-nighter awaited him. In a way, what he was doing was selfish. He wanted to help others so he could feel less regret. About everything. The whores, drugs, and gambling mainly.

He led her to the living room, motioning for her to follow.

“Until I can figure out how to help you, you're free to do as you'd like. Try to not ‘work’, though.”

He said while handing her a credit card. 

“For your expenses and troubles. It goes negative at 120k. Try not to do that, please.”

Keeping going, he mentioned all the things to do. Tennis, swimming, basketball, just workout, game in the arcade, if she wanted to play pool with him she could, or she could just explore and chill. There's a garden out back. Quite calming.

Sitting down on the couch, he began to read. A book titled, “History and Origin of Prostitution.” 

It seemed legit. With his reading glasses on, he was completely consumed by the book. Forgetting she was even there, almost. He took out a cigarette from his pocket and lit it. Smoking while reading was a habit now. He almost couldn't do one without the other.

As he kept reading, he began to chew his nail with frustration. The cigarette was resting in the ash tray. After about an hour, the book was finished. Peculiar. There's a market for sex slaves, such that the district sold. Just permanent. Hell, it said some even enjoyed being used.

It disgusted him. Immensely. Even if they like it, selling someone to another is immoral. Even to Kai. 

Deciding to get some fresh air, he walked to the garden. In the center was a fountain surrounded by flowers. Most of them were pink or purple. Kai certainly liked the scheme.

Sitting on a bench swing, he said to himself, ignorant of if anyone would hear, “Damn. Women are a problem. I don't get how they manage.”

He sighed and looked to the sky. A bright blue hue with white splotches. Perfect. On top of that, it was fall. So the weather was nice due to the best season.

Kai didn't realize if he still had his readers on or not. Grabbing to where they would be, he found himself only touching the bridge of his nose. Laughing at himself, he remarked, “I'm going crazy…”  

The way the male pretty much took his words back was kind of surprising to her. Was he taking notes as well? Whatever the male wanted to do. She couldn't really stop him. She then looked back at the plate of food before her. She was kind of hungry. She pulled the plate closer to her and started to eat. The food tasted amazing. She then realized the male wasn't eating. She knew it was rude to eat when someone else wasn't. She finished what she could and pushed her plate away. “Thank you for breakfast” she said lightly. She was greatful after all.

She wasn't a total brat. She watched as the male took her plate to the sink and washed it for her. She cocked her head to the side and thought about what he asked her. “I'll have to let you know later on, because all I want to do right now is explore” she admitted. She wanted to explore the moment she had entered the house. She pushed herself away from the table and slid her chair back in. She then made her way out of the kitchen and into the hallway. She walked towards the front of the house slowly.

She trailed her fingers lightly along the walls as she did. It was like she was trying to memorize where she was, and where she was going. This place was huge and she was pretty sure she would end up getting lost. She then was starting to realize that she had been a total bitch to the male. He had done something kind for her, and what had she done? Snapped at him and pretty much clumped him in with the Dominick's and Daniel's of the world. Something she was starting to hate herself for. She sighed lightly as she walked to the front door.

She heard the male behind her and she looked over her shoulder as he slipped into the library he had mentioned. Right now she wanted to be outside. She unlocked the door and pulled it open. She stepped out onto the front porch and stopped. The sight before her was breathtaking. This place was breathtaking. She moved to the stairs and sat down. She wrapped her arms around her legs and pulled her knees to her chest. She rested her chin on her knees as she let the silence wash over her.

What did she want help with? Was he being for real? Did he really think that she would want to bring someone here? He really did think so little of her. Just because she was in this line of work, didn't mean she was like everyone else. If she had her way, she would have escaped a long time ago. That's all she had wanted when she turned eighteen after all. She just wanted to have normal teenage years. She had wanted to fall in love with her High School sweetheart, gone to Homecoming, Prom, and see life thorugh different eyes.

Her life had a different path after all. She sighed lightly as she realized she had been sitting outside for a lot longer than she thought. She stood and jumped down the steps and rounded the back of the house. She spotted the gardens Kai had mentioned. She even spotted Kai himself. She cocked her head to the side as she made her way towards him. She walked in front of him and locked her eyes on his. “I want to know what it's like going to High School, going to Homecoming dances, Prom's. Everything” she breathed out.

It might have been stupid but to her it was everything. “I want to know what it's like to be touched by a man in a non-sexual way. I want to feel the rush of butterflies when someone looks at me. I don't want to be used for sex, I don't want to be paid for sex. I want to know what the world has to offer.” she breathed out. She had thought about taking him up on the offer of drugs, and her mind went back to his question about Human Trafficking. She wasn't apart of that thank God.

“No I wasn't part of the Human Trafficking. I was pretty much bought by Dominick when I was eighteen years old. I don't remember who my parents are, but I think they were in a bad place and that's why I was sold into the prostitute world as soon as I turned eighteen” she breathed out. She wasn't ready to tell Kai everything. As long as he was willing to work with her, she would tell him little by little. She was still scared to open up, but at least it was a step in the right direction at the moment.

She walked up to him, explaining a desire that didn't surprise Kai in the slightest. She explained that she wasn't a part of Human Trafficking. Which makes his job A LOT easier.

“Very well. I wish it was that simple. I can pull a few strings and organize you going to a high school. It will be a tad different just because of your age. Everyone would be underage…that beats the purpose of high school sweetheart…I honestly wish I could just give you someone that would work for you, but it's not like prostitution. I know that's the whole point, but it takes emotional maturity and strength. Work on both sides to improve…Relationships are hard to make, which is why your line of work is so popular. Damn pigs want the easy way in.”

Kai said with the full knowledge that he was once one of those pigs. She didn't need to know that. It would make her deny any help he tried to provide.

Standing up, he told her, “I have no expirence with the sweetheart part, so I'd better get to work.” smiling, he walked off. “Feel free to do whatever. There's food almost everywhere. Jean can help you with cooking if you want. Just yell Jean and he'll show up. It's scary, almost.” 

He let a yawn escape him once more. His work was going to be watching high-school videos. From prom. Sports games. Partys. Maybe even some movies. He made sure that she knew she was welcome to join him if she desired. He'd be in the living room, looking at things that may help.

It was a hefty task. One that couldn't be bought out. Sean only had one girlfriend in his lifetime. Katya…she was stunning. The only girl that truly mattered to him. Sadly, she died in a plane crash. Ending their relationship along with her life. Often, he tried to avoid thinking about it, but he was planning to go to her prom. Kai was educated in his house, which is why he had little experience with her request.

He found a few CDs of Katya's…he kept them as a way to remember her face. After all, each time a memory plays back it becomes slightly distorted. Putting the disk in the movie player, the video started.

Katya, Kai, and Sean. The troublesome three was their nickname. It was them documenting a drive in theater. The closing week, they said. Katya and Kai were up against each other. Sean was taking the video, poking fun at the two.

Of course it was this video…why did that have to be the first disk?

Katya was quite beautiful. She wore a short, dark bob cut. Her outfit was goth-inspired as was her jewelry. She had minimal makeup on, but was still gorgeous. Kai had similar clothing to her on, it was October so he deemed it fitting. Sean, who couldn't be seen, was wearing a Michael Myers mask. Kai and Katya were whispering and giggling to each other for most of the video. It was mainly Sean explaining what was happening to the place. Today, the property now holds a warehouse.

Taking the CD out early, he sighed. Just his damn luck. The last video taken of her before her early death. Before Kai became dead inside…before he began to hurt himself just to feel something. Before he got into drugs and prostitution. The good days. When it was him and her. 

Kai hesitantly put the next disk in. It was just Kai this time. After one word, he ejected the disk. Kai was struggling to hold back tears. All this for some random girl? One he would likely never see after she adjusted? God, he was stupid.

  Flipping through the case that held Katya's disks, he pulled out one with a date he didn't remember the importance of.

The video began. This time it was just Katya. It was a video that Kai somehow hadn't seen yet. At this point, he needed to see it. Caring not if Evangeline was watching as well. Fully immersed into the videos, if she was there he hadn't noticed.

It was Katya, a bit before she dated Kai, explaining her feelings for him. How he charmed her. His little mannerisms that made her heart flutter. Also, how he struggled with social cues sometimes. How he didn't feel comfortable sharing anything. How she wanted to change that. Before the video ended, she expressed her excitement for the night ahead of her. Kai invited her to his house. She then explained how huge it was.

Kai stayed quiet as the video turned black. She truly felt that way…otherwise she wouldn't have taken the video. She didn't have many people to vent to at the time. Which is why she chose video form.

Rubbing his eyes, he saved the disk to the side. Sitting back onto the couch, he stayed stoic and quiet. Reminiscing of the time he had with her. Kai began to hug one of the throw pillows, to comfort him. 

Eva was slightly confused at what the male had said about her going to High School. She didn't want to go to High School. She wanted to experience the dances, and that was it. It really got under her skin that he wasn't paying attention at all and just running with what she said. She understood he was trying to help her, but if he was confused why not ask her to explain it better? Before she had the chance to explain he was already going off about making something for her to eat and to yell out Jean's name if she needed too.

Soon she was alone.. Again.. She hated that more than him assuming everything about her. She threw her hands up in the air and let out a frustrated scream. That's when Jean came up to her. “Is everything okay Miss?” he asked her. The blonde turned her head towards him and she shook her head lightly. “No, everything is not okay. That asshole won't listen, won't ask questions, and won't stop assuming shit” she said as she plopped down into the grass. The male sat down and crossed his legs Indian style and rested his arms across his thighs.

“Let me explain somethings to you about Kai. I know it's annoying when he just assumes things I get that. He's really trying to help you out here. He's not one to ask questions. He just takes what you say and runs with it. He's doing his best here Miss Evangline. You need to also help him understand as well what he's doing. You requested something and he took it as that was something you wanted to do. So please understand where he's coming from. He did this to help you, not to make matters worse for you” he said lightly.

As the other male spoke Eva slowly understood what was happening. She was stubborn and always had things going her way. He was as confused as she was. She sighed lightly as she looked towards the male before her. “The thing is, I want him to listen before just running off to do God knows what. I hate the fact he's talked down to me, belittled me, and pretty much assumed I'm a drug addict. I understand where he's coming from, but at the same time I don't.” she said as she pulled at some blades of grass.

Jean nodded lightly “I know, and I will make sure to have a talk to him about that as well. Go inside and maybe try to explain yourself and see if he'll listen to you. I'm going to go and start making you both something to eat for lunch" he said as he stood and offered her his hand. She sighed and took the males hand and stood. The two walked back into the house together. Jean went to the kitchen and Eva made her way to the living room. She slowed her pace when she heard the T.V. going.

She peeked around the corner seeing a beautiful woman on the screen. She then saw Kai as well. When was that taken? He looked so carefree and like he didn't give a shit. She stood there watching for a moment before he put in a couple more discs. She watched a little while longer and then heard the sounds of crying. The male was dealing with so much other shit, she felt like she was just adding to it. She took a breath as she moved into the living room. She watched as he grabbed a pillow and hugged it against his chest.

She cleared her throat so he would know she was there. She walked over and sat down next to him, pulling her legs up under her. “Who was that on the screen? She was beautiful” she said lightly. She wasn't going to force him to tell her, but if he go up and left again, was when she would go and get her things and leave. She was tired of being belittled, talked down too, and him walking away assuming things about her that weren't true. Maybe talking about him for a little bit will break the ice between them.

He was interrupted by what sounded to be a girl clearing her throat. Oh…Evangeline. She wanted to know about Katya…hell why not? Not like she was gonna stay long.

“I hate talking about me, so first I'll apologize. I often summarize what people say and assume what they mean based on the summary. The scream told me it made you mad. My apologies. I am socially incompetent. Anyways, the girl's name was Katya Myers…She was truly gorgeous. Not only physically, but mentally as well. She was the only person that really got me in my earlier years. It was quite short lived, though. 2 years cut short by a leaking fuel line in a plane. International flight. Here to Japan. The plane crashed into the water and every. Single. Person. Drowned. Including Katya…No matter though, it's all in the past.  By our interactions so far, I'd hope you know I'm not a Good Samaritan, I'm doing this selfishly in unison with trying to help others.”

Taking out a clip of cigarettes, he put one beside her in case she wanted one, staying true to his no touch policy. Then he took one for himself and lit it.

“Due to my social incompetence, I often take things too literally. I'll need specifics to help you, just so you know. I realize that you don't want the entire school part. That was a foolish observation. The dances right? I'm sure I can recreate that…I've never been to one myself, though. Looks like some studying to catch up on…again.”

It seemed on every countertop was an ash tray. Some rooms smelled more like smoke than the other, but every room had essential oils burning.

Kai began to keep thinking about Katya. Why was she one in a million? Out of all people? Of course she died young. The universe is out to annoy him, and torture him. 

He then realized the pillow was still in his lap. Moving to put it behind him, he asked, “Did you only see that video? How long were you there?”

It was his own fault that he didn't realize she was there. Seeing Kayta seemed to erase his paranoia. Even though she's long gone. The entire reason he did this, was so she wasn't frowning down on him from above. Kai knew he wouldn't be with her in the afterlife, if there is one. He would be in hell, or whatever it truly was.

“Please give me another chance. I know I'm an asshole. I'm just not an intentional asshole. Growing up with Jean being my only company did cause a few problems. Especially with talking to the opposite sex. I dismissed what you said. Looking back on it, I probably have done that a lot. I'm sorry if you felt ignored.”   

In his head, he kept beating himself up over every conversation they had. How rude he came across as. At this point, he wouldn't be surprised if she packed her things and went back to her old life.

Kai let out another yawn. The past three days were spent planning for this, and it was all futile. One thing that bothered Kai was when things didn't go according to plan. Everything possible he planned went wrong. Which caused him for more all-nighters trying to steer himself the right direction with limited information.

He truly disliked asking questions. Thought it annoyed people. Even when it was considered appropriate to ask questions he often didn't. Unless if curiosity or guilt consumed him whole. Such as with the videos. That time it was a mix of both.

“Enough about me. You're here for yourself. Not me. What do you want to do tonight? Anything. Carnivals to races. Movies to reading. Even go to a restaurant. Just so I feel less bad about how I treated you. I will do my best to change.”

Would she know what there was to do? Was she cooped up her entire life? Did her boss let her explore and live?

Kai finished the cigarette and snuffed it out. Walking out, he told her, “I'm not avoiding you. I'm going to change.” He began to put more formal clothes on. Even if she didn't want to come, he had to make a trip to the bank. I guess if she wanted to go anywhere, she'd have to tag along. Unless she could drive.

Walking out with a white dress shirt, a black tie, black dress pants, and black with gold embroidery dress shoes, he offered her her own suit. It was a classic suit that was too small for him. Luckily, it had little use and was clean.

“Not sure if you have one. Feel free to take it.”

He told her, putting it on the island in case she wanted to grab it. At this point, it was obvious he took his no-touchy statement literally. He considered it the least he could do. Plus, she probably wanted to stay miles away from him. At least that's the vibe he picked up. He told her, “Either way, let's go for a drive. Just to sightsee. I won't force you though…”

It was her life. She had the right to do as she pleased. If that was stay and leave while Kai was at the bank, so be it. It's what she wanted.   

Grabbing his keys, he looked back to Evangeline. “On the way, I have to stop by the bank. Hope that's okay.”

Listening as Kai spoke about the woman, her heart went out to him. He sounded like he really loved the woman. She was beautiful. Hearing how she died broke her heart. She moved over to the couch and sat down beside him. “I'm so sorry about how you lost her. She sounded like she was really loved by you. Is she the reason why you want to help women like myself?” she asked. If it was, that was something she could admire about the male beside her. When he offered her a smoke, she shook her head and handed it back to him.

“Thank you for the offer, but I don't smoke. Just a personal prefernce is all” she said lightly. She sat there listening to the male speaking. Yes he had been a total asshole, and he wasn't listening to anything she was saying. She wouldn't mind going some where with him. It would be better than being cooped up inside all day. She thought he was going to lock her away from the world. She wasn't like that at all. She needed to be out in the world and around people. She watched as he stood and walked out of the room.

She took that small amount of time to really think about everything. He was trying to help her the best he could. Was he really going to be pulling all nighters for stupid shit? Yeah she never got to see what the whole High School life was about, because she had dropped out and not allowed to do anything about it. Now that she was really thinking about it, it was silly. She was more curious about Kai more than ever. When he came back he offered her a suit, and she raised a 'brow slightly towards him.

Did he really think she was going to wear something like that? Hell no. It was too stuck up for her taste. She wasn't going to lie though, he looked amazing in what he was wearing. She was kind of bummed about his no touching rule though. She shrugged lightly at the offer of going with him. “A drive does sound nice. But I seriously hope you don't think I'm going to wear a bloody suit? That's not my style. It's either sweats and sweaters, or jeans and t-shirts. The only time I ever really dolled up as when I was told too”

“Which was more than I would have liked. I'd rather be comfortable honestly. Also you don't need to give me a credit card. You don't have to buy me clothes. Because of my line of work, I have money clear up to my ears. I personally don't know what to do with it. I did have a really nice apartment in the District, and I'm sure it'll be there when and if I ever go back. I just wish you would have taken me to get my car” she said with a sigh. She missed her car.

She looked down at what she was wearing and decided she might as well just stay in what she was wearing. “I'm just going in this. I don't really care what people have to say. I want to be comfortable. But would you mind if we find a bookstore or something? I want to get some books to read since I have a lot of time on my hands.” she said lightly. She wanted nothing more than to snag his car keys from him, but knew better not too. She stood and walked over to the male closing the gap between them.

She knew about his rule, but she wasn't going to stand for it. She walked over and wrapped her arms around his waist, and nuzzled her head against his chest, and under his chin, hugging him. “Thank you for not being like all those other men. Thank you for doing the best you can. Let's just work together on this okay? I promise I'll stop being a stubborn woman, if you promise that you'll stop being an asshole and lighten up a little bit” she breathed out. He was slightly taller than she was, and the feeling of being safe washed over her.

That was a really strange feeling. She hadn't felt that before. Not with anyone. She then realized she was still hugging him, and her cheeks turned a small shade of pink. She stepped back and looked up towards him, before wrapping her arms around herself. “Lead the way” she said lightly. She then followed the male out to the car and slipped inside. She turned her attention out the window letting the silence wash over them.

To her question, he took a moment to respond. After a short pause he responded, “In a way, yes. Part of it is my own selfishness.” Kai didn't want to be regarded as a good Samaritan. Also, it would help her hatred towards him. Now, though, she seemed to not be so annoyed by his actions.

Once he got back, he tried to hold back a smile. Her response about the suit was quite amusing. “I don't care what you wear, honestly. Whatever you want. You can have the suit if you want, otherwise I'll donate it.” To be fair, up until now, he was heavily stereotyping her due to her line of work. Something that she couldn't help. She mentioned having a car…her employer allowed that? “If you want, we'll be out anyways. We can pick up your car. There's room in the garage.” A bookstore…Kai knew just the one. It was quite nice. If he remembered correctly, it's near Amsterdam. Broese Booksellers. When he needed a break from his empty yet large house, he would visit them. The workers at this point knew him on a first name basis. Unless if they were a new hire. It was a nice change of scenery. Plus, it wasn't too loud for his liking. 

Suddenly, once he grabbed his keys, the girl walked close to him. Too close. Was she going to smack him? For offering the suit? Was it too much? Did he offend her? At once, all the questions disappeared as a strange feeling consumed him. Was she…hugging him? Shit. The rule was meant to prevent this! How did he switch up her opinion of him so fast? Did he tell her too much? Yeah…that must be it. Now guilt crept up on him. Feeling as if he manipulated her into such, when that was far from the intention. Also, he told Katya she was the only woman who made him feel that way. Was this a normal feeling? To make guilt worse, Katya was the only one before this strange girl that would dare be close to him. Seen near him. Growing up, he was always blamed and beat up for his parents' death. Even though he was a toddler when they passed. This no-touch rule was meant to prevent feelings like this. So he wouldn't get attached…That way it could be purely platonic and professional. It was also meant to prevent memories from surfacing. Awkwardly, he put her arms around her. She was there for a moment. Making the uncomfortable feeling stronger. Her head was resting under his, which made matters worse. “Deal…”

Once she let go, Kai was slightly trembling. Not enough to spot immediately, but if you looked long enough it became apparent. The walk to the car was silent, as was the ride. Finally, he got to the bank. Taking out a hefty amount of money from an ATM, he gave half to Evangeline. “Take it. I know you must have money. I want you to save that for when you live by yourself. Life is expensive.”

Shortly after, he put the bookstore in the GPS. “We'll get your car on the way back from the bookstore. I'm taking you to my favorite spot.” Silence consumed the car once more. Kai kept thinking about what she did. Not wanting to mention it, the slight unease about breaking the rule wouldn't get brought up. Maybe…Katya sent this girl…for him. There were so many others on the district, so why this one in particular? It was a gut feeling. Not impulsive as it looked. Plus, this is the first try at this type of thing for him. In a way, she was his experiment. Kai had to hold back the thoughts about her. If he kept thinking about it, he would end up inevitably getting attached to her. Which was not needed. Especially on day one.

To be fair, he hadn't had anyone to talk to other than Jean since Katya died. Her death made him isolate heavily. Angry at the world and himself. Especially himself. Before she left for the plane, he gave his blessing and said he trusted her. Something he rarely did for others. The blessing was just for good wishes. It didn't mean much. Yet his trust was rarely given. To him, it was everything. Especially for Katya. The fear of her cheating or leaving him constantly lived with him during their relationship. Sighing, the memories began to resurface. The joy he felt with her. How she calmed him. The only one who got him for most of his life. Now this girl was threating his acceptance of living alone. Of course, he was reading too far into it. He knew deep down it wasn't like that. 

Eventually, they arrived to the bookstore. Parking as close as possible, he opened the car door for her. Same with the door to the store. As soon as Kai walked in, he was greeted by one of the employees. 

“Hello, Mr. Jansen, you've brought company?!”

The man seemed quite surprised. To Kai's displeasure, the other employees kept looking their direction. So much for being left alone. The eyes felt like daggers. Even though they weren't full of malice. Probably just taking it personally, Kai began to ignore it. One of the employees began to ask Evangeline some questions about what books she was looking for and would guide her to such section.

Meanwhile, Kai was looking in the nonfiction section. To see if there was anything that could educate him on how to help the poor girl. As he was looking, a new employee began to approach him. She asked how she could help him. Kai just said he was a regular and didn't need her help, sorry. The girl seemed kind of offended and stormed off. Weird. Brushing off the weird interaction, he kept browsing…Not that one…Maybe history section? Most of these were biographies. Reluctantly, he moved to a section not related to helping her. Fiction. Fantasy books were Kai's favorite…They always had some good choices.

The whole car ride was silent. She knew she had overstepped a line with the male, but she didn't care. He was doing his best to help her, and she would do the same for him. She knew he was still hurting over his previous girlfriend and she hoped that he would open up to her again. When they pulled into the banks parking lot she shifted a bit. Part of her wanted to pulled out her wallet and have him check her own account, but then realized it wasn't the correct bank. She shoved that thought aside for the time being.

When he had gotten the funds he needed and handed her a huge wad of cash her jaw dropped. “Kai, you didn't have to give me this” she breathed out. It was too much to fit into her little wallet and she sure as hell didn't want to have the wad of cash sitting out in the open either. She chewed on the inside of her cheek as he pulled out of the parking lot and headed towards the bookstore. She was glad the would go and get her car. Maybe she could sneak in and talk to some of the girls as well.

When the bookstore was in sight, and the male parked the car she was about to climb out, when she realized her was coming around to her side. He opened her door for her and a small smile passed over her lips. “Thank you” she said as she made sure the cash was well hidden before climbing out. As they walked inside her breath caught in her throat. The sight of the rows of book shelves was breathtaking. Soon she was being dragged out of her thoughts by the voices of the employees. She was home.

She shook her head lightly as she let one of the employee's take her down one of the rows. “What are you into? What can I help you find? And why are you with Kai?” the female asked. Evangeline couldn't help but laugh softly. “I love reading anything and everything. I don't have a personal favorite. Kai is taking me under his wing for a little while and helping me get on my feet. I don't think he wants me talking about it" she said with a shrug of her shoulders. The woman nodded lightly and took a breath before speaking.

“Well you are really lucky. Kai's considered the most handsome man in town, and once other's get wind of you being seen around with him, will make a lot of people jealous” she said. Eva was kind of surprised at that comment, but kept her mouth shut about it. She was glad Kai was helping her after all. “If you don't mind, I'd like to be left alone to browse for a little bit” she said. The employee nodded and left her alone just then. Eva let out a small breath as she started browsing the bookshelves.

She slowly ran her fingers along the spines of the books and she felt comfortable for a change. She was at home. She was in her element after all. She bit the inside of her cheek as she found a couple of books and then went to find Kai. Once she found him she broke out into a smile. “Did you find anything that catches your eye?” she asked him. She had a couple in her arms as she stood beside the male. She bit her lip lightly as she looked at the shelves in front of her letting her words hang between them.

Kai looked around for a moment. He immediately gravitated towards the fiction section. He wanted to read a Stephen King novel, as he heard good things about the author but never read one of his books. Then, he'd get a John Grisham book. He read a book called “The Rooster Bar” by the author and liked it. So, he'd try another one of his works out. After he picked out “Holly” by Stephen King and “The Ultimatum” by John Gresham Eva walked over to him. She asked if anything caught his fancy. He lifted the two books in his hand and smiled. “Only a couple. I have quite a few books at home. Grab as much as you want, I'll buy them.”

Even if she didn’t want him to, he was going to pay for what he could regarding her. So she could have more for something when she starts to live on her own. He wasn’t trying to earn cookie points with her, but judging by the looks he got it seemed like it to others. Once they checked out, he opened the car door for her once more. It was the respect she deserved. No matter how harsh she was treated. Once he started the car and began to head towards the Red Light District to get her car, he asked, “What else can I do to help you? The prom thing I can arrange. If you still want to do that. Any people in particular you want me to invite? We’re on the way to your car now. If you have any friends from the district you could ask them. I hope.” 

Eventually they got there, he rushed to open the door for her as normal. “Feel free to say hi. Just, please, don’t stay here. Call me if anything goes wrong. My number is in the phone I gave you. You could also get some of your friends' numbers, of course. Use it how you wish.” It felt wrong to boss her around. He wasn’t her keeper. All he was, was a helper. He had no right to boss her around like a pet. At least any sense of orders made him feel cruel.

While he waited, he lit a cigarette and puffed it. Yeah, it was a bad habit. So what? It helped his stress level. It soothed him. He waited. It felt like an eternity for some reason. He couldn’t be…getting attached…right? All she did was hug him. He knew he had problems but didn’t think they were this bad. So, he just shrugged it off. 

Wait…Kai began to feel dumb. She was going to be driving herself. So, he sent her his address and hopped back into his car. He wanted to make sure she was safe before he left. It was too early for the district to be busy, but no telling what was going on in those buildings. For some reason, he couldn’t help but worry.

Finally, he decided he wouldn’t drive away until he got a ‘I’m alright’ from Eva. He texted her once more, “Let me know when you leave.”

Seeing the books in his hand she was kind of surprised. She adored Stephen King with a passion. “You are in for a treat with Stephen King. He's one of my favorite horror authors. I've never read Holly though. Let me know how it is?” she asked. When Kai offered to buy her own books she wasn't going to tell him no. They have been working on not attacking one another after all. He had given her more funds than she wanted. Then again she wasn't expecting money from him. When they were checked out, he brought up the prom idea again.

She thought about it and then decided it would be too childish. “Honestly I don't want you going through all the trouble. I mean if it's something you have your heart set on doing, then please do. I know there's some people I would have invited but living and working in the District, we couldn't leave and do normal things like that. I think I want to just have a nice night in and just enjoy the company” she said lightly. She knew it was childish to eant to do things the way she wanted too. But she never got to have any of it.

She was torn away from her teenage years, and thrown into something she didn't want to do. Something she knew would stick with her for the rest of her life as well. As Kai drove she watched the houses turn into the Dristict. She was back home. The only home she had ever known. She was kind of nervous that Kai was leaving. She felt like a little girl once more. When the car stopped and he was helping her out of the car, she was standing a bit closer to the male than she wanted.

She knew about his no touching rule, but that was already thrown out the window. She hugged the male again and stood there for a moment. “Thank you. I'll be home soon. I promise” she told him. She then took one last look at the male before she headed towards one of the buildings and slipped inside. She felt her phone go off and she pulled it out. He was worried about her. She couldn't help but smile. I'm safely inside. I'll see you soon. Don't worry too much either. I'll be safe. She then hit send and slipped the phone back into her pocket.

She found Monica's room and she knocked on the door. “Come in” came the sound of Monica's voice. Eva turned the knob and walked in. Monica let out a scream and rushed towards her. Eva was nearly knocked off her feet as she hugged the woman back. “Oh my god. What are you doing here?! Did that bidder get tired of you already? Do I need to cut a bitch?” she asked. Eva laughed and shook her head no. “No Kai brought me back to get my car and to come say hi” she said.

The two sat down on Monica's bed and started talking away. It was a good couple of hours before Eva knew she had to get back. She made sure to get Monica's number and the two said their goodbyes. She then slipped out of the house and ran into Daniel. The male was kind of surprised to see her. He was about to speak when Eva was out the door before he could. Her car keys were in hand as well. Monica had held onto them for her. She walked up to the sleek white Mercades Benz and unlocked it.

She slipped behind the wheel and let out a small sigh. It was nice being behind the wheel again. She started it up and pulled out of the Dristrict for the last time. She rolled the windows down and turned the volume up on the radio. She let out a yell as she was finally free. She tapped in Kai's address and headed home. When she was back at Kai's she parked in the driveway and sat there a little while longer. She felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She had her car back and that's all that mattered.

She climbed out and headed inside. “Kai, I'm home. Are you hungry? I want to make you dinner” she called out as she made her way to the kitchen. She didn't know what there was to even make, but at least it was a start. She opened the cupboards and started pulling items out to see if he'd like them or not.

As Kai received the text, he reluctantly headed back home. If this was to work out, trust must be present. He was aware he had no reason to worry. Who would want to go back to that life?? Even though, with that information, he still held worry for her. Her safety, mainly. In Kai's mind her ex-boss would try to trap her there again and use her for a bit of money. So, the trust part was in if something was to go wrong, she'd contact him.

The moment he let her out in the district played throughout his head. Why does she keep hugging him? It slightly bothers him. She caused a feeling foreign to him by doing so. Something sex didn't provide him. Was that what true affection felt like? Kai wanted nothing to do with it, if that was the case. It gave him anxiety. Whatever that feeling was, he wanted to stay far away from it. Why does she keep having to break the damn rule? It's there not only for her, but for him as well. Yet he couldn't do anything about her breaking it. She wasn't a child. Her decisions were her own to make. Kai could mention it again, but there's no telling if she would follow it. Perhaps he opened up too much…That had to be it, right?? 

Katya lived in his head rent free since her death. Often, he blamed himself for it. After all, he bought the ticket for her. A fatal mistake. The only way he really knew how to show appreciation to others was giving them money. Really, he had very little social skills and awareness. Which showed when Evangeline first got there. He immediately judged her wrongly, with no reason to. A bad habit he's had since he was a kid began to show the first time he interacted with her. Which was the judgmental tendency. Kai knew it wasn't her fault for the situation she was in. So why did he do that? Even after apologizing, he still held guilt for that. The loss of Katya caused him to isolate even more than he was previously. Jean tried to help how he could, by arranging events and such, but Kai didn't comply. Losing Katya was like losing himself. He was genuinely happy with her. Once she died, he turned to drugs and prostitutes to distract him from the pain.

Which was part of the reason he was doing this. So, when he died, Katya wouldn't hate him. It was for forgiveness he may never get. After all, there also could be no afterlife. It's not like anyone who died could tell the world of the living if there was. Th aftermath of death was purely unknown. Not physically, but mentally or spiritually.

As Kai was in his head, he was snapped out of it by Jean. “Sir, if I may, what are your plans to help the girl?” Kai looked to him in a defeated way. Plans?? He barely had any. What he originally planned was too easily thrown out the window. “Just ask her what she needs. No one else knows her needs or wants unless if she voices them.” 

Shortly after, she walked in and asked if he was hungry. She wanted to cook?? Why? Maybe it was just something she enjoyed. Sighing, he got up and walked to the kitchen. Eva had already managed to pull a few things out. For some reason, a smile crept up on him. “Sure. If you don't mind, may I help?”

Jean walked over and smiled. Seeing Kai warm up to someone made Jean feel a weight lift off of his shoulders. Raising Kai was a handful. Especially since his parents died when he was so young. Jean's wife died a few years later. Loss was heavy in both Kai's and Jean's life. Instead of letting the depression overtake him, he decided to keep his promise to the late master. Raise Kai better than himself. So far, it felt like he had incredibly failed at such task. Something Jean held much guilt for. The two men couldn't help but be somewhat attached to the other. Jean was the only father figure Kai could remember.

Jean just let them be. Kai was older now. The bird must fly out the nest and explore the world. That was something Jean wanted more than anything. Kai to be content and happy. Jean thought of Kai as his own at this point.

Kai helped Eva pull a few things out as Jean left. One thing Kai felt the need to do was express his appreciation for him. Without Jean, Kai wouldn't be alive. Either someone would have killed him, or he wouldn't have been able to support himself. Sighing, he resumed conversation. There was no reason for it to be so awkward between Eva and him. “Well, if you don't want to do the dance, how else may I help you?” he asked as he turned on the stove. He was planning on making some sort of pasta and grill a few steaks as well. Then he remembered, he wasn't doing this alone. “Oh, I was going to make some pasta to go with some steak. Do you think rice would be better? In a moment I'll go to grill the steak.” The weird feeling came back once more. Like a nervous teenager asking a girl to prom, almost. Most of his experience with feelings was from television, which was far from reality. Despite his time with Katya, it was only a small bit of his life. About two years of it. She found his obliviousness cute. She was also more than helpful to him. One of the few who didn't want him for just money. Kai grew silent once more as his head drifted towards Katya once more. To him, she was more than a blessing. She was able to fix him. The only one able to, at least in Kai's mind.

Forcing a smile, he looked to Eva and asked, “If you don't mind me asking, have you ever dated anyone? Before your circumstances turned worse, of course?” The question came out of nowhere. Maybe it was his mind drifting towards Katya. She said she didn't really have a good childhood experience, so he wanted to dig deeper. Another way to help her. 

It would give him ideas and hopefully solutions to help her.

Selfishly, for Katya.

Eva was kind of surprised when Kai asked if he could help her. She wasn't going to turn down the help though. “Of course, it is your kitchen after all. Thank you” she said lightly. She had to admit to herself it was kind of nice to have someone helping. It would make the work go by faster after all. She bit the inside of her cheek lightly as he mentioned making some pasta and steaks. She was slightly taken back again, but a smile came to her face right away. “Pasta and steak sound amazing. I was just going to make grilled cheese” she said laughing softly.

She was glad Kai had thought of doing something different. This was comfortable for her. She never got to do this type of cooking in the district. This was a whole new feeling to her. She bent down and found a pot big enough to boil some pasta in. She stood and placed the pan on top of the counter. She then found some elbow pasta and pulled that bag out as well. She found the steak he was talking about and set it beside the other items. She didn't know what else would pair with it.

She then realized he asked her how he could help her. If she didn't want the whole prom thing, what else did she want? “To be honest I don't know. I never really thought about it. I mean this is a step in the right direction though. I've never been able to freely cook like this before. It was always with other girls in the houses, but we only had ramen, canned foods, grilled cheese. Nothing like steak, so I'm honestly looking forward to that. But I think little things like this, and the book shopping is perfect”

“I've never been able to freely roam either.. Always having to be on call so to speak. I couldn't leave the district and just go explore the world. I was locked behind those damn walls, that I'm scared to see the world. I've dreamed of seeing the world for years, but now that I can I just want to stay within these walls” she admitted. It was hard being a prostitute. She had so many rules to live by. She had to dress a certian way. She couldn't even talk to the man she was spending the night with.

So being able to speak to Kai like this, was all new to her as well. Something she wanted more of.  When he asked if she'd ever dated anyone she shook her head. “No. It was just sex, sex, and more sex. I wasn't told to get dolled up the way I wanted too. I wasn't told that someone would be planning a date night. I've read about them, seen them in movies, but I've never been apart of that world before. I know that sounds horrible, but you have to remember I was in this line of business the moment I turned eighteen”

“I wasn't allowed to wear what I wanted. I wasn't allowed to wear sweats and an over sized t-shirt, or slippers. The only time I was, was when I was in my own room. But even then I didn't have enough time for that either. I was always wearing whatever man bought me wanted met to wear” she said as sadness showed in her voice. She knew she was breaking the man's run about not touching, but it was something she enjoyed. She wanted to feel close to someone. She wanted to feel that safety, that warmth.

She took a breath as she looked towards Kai. “I'm sorry for hugging you. I know it's a so called rule, but can you not have it? Can you just relax a little bit? I promise I'm not going to hurt you by hugging you, or by wanting that feeling of being held for the first time. Not just while having sex, but just as a comfort thing” she whispered. She reached for the pot and filled it up with water and then placed it on the stove. She didn't know if she had over stepped a line or not.

It was kind of nice seeing the male relax a little bit. Even if he slips back behind his mask, she was going to remember him as he was right now. She kept her eyes turned away as she reached for the pasta bag and opened it. She set it aside as she jumped up onto the counter top. She leaned forward slowly as she cocked her head to the side. “Talk to me Kai. What's on your mind?” she asked. She didn't want him to shut her out, and she hoped with her whole being he would let her in.

Kai listened. It was the best way he could help her. That was until he got to know her better, if ever given the chance.A slight feeling rose up within him as she spoke. Empathy? No, it was guilt. For at one point he indulged this industry. To fill the emptiness he was left with after Katya's death. It was plaguing him now more than ever. It was sparked by this whole project, Kai was sure. 

Before this, he would just stay isolated other than Jean checking in on him from time to time. It helped the pain. At least that's what he chose to believe.

Before long, she was finished saying her part. Now she opened the floor to him. It was hard to focus with the steak sizzling and the steam beginning to form. Things he wouldn't normally be distracted by. It was odd. “I'll let go of the rule…I suppose. What I heard is that you would like to travel sometime? Name a place and I'll plan it and pay for it as well. Preferably to another country. That way you've seen a new part of the world.”

He did not want to let go of the rule. At all. If it would help her, he would. Which seemed to be the case. The selfish part in him knew that he was going to grow attached to her and hit a major depression when she left.

Kai pressed down on the steaks before flipping them. Then she hopped up onto the counter and asked a question he hadn't heard in years. Something that he didn't expect. Something that he wasn't prepared for how the inner turmoil that stayed within him would try and squeeze out at the mention. What's on his mind? Too much. He has to keep appearances up for the public and his political friends. Yet he's still traveling with a prostitute. At least that's how the public would view it. He thought of her as someone who was taken advantage of. The title for the profession left a bad taste in his mouth. Especially when used to refer to the sex workers.  

“Uh…Good question. Well, there's me trying to figure out ways to help you. I also need to get out more. I'm not used to this much socializing. Especially after Katya died. ”, he stopped. There still was guilt in his heart. He killed her. If he didn't buy her that plane ticket she'd still be here. It plagued him daily. Something he felt he couldn't overcome. His expression quickly became more and more stoic. That's what works. Shutting down.

Cutting a steak open, he took his off and asked Evageline, “Medium rare or medium? Or do you not know?"

Changing the topic was a necessity. At least for him. If they kept down this road, he'd break down and say too much. Say what was truly on his mind. Things he didn't want shared.

Before he knew it, the steak was done. He turned off the burner and grabbed two plates. The water was just now boiling. Looks like it may be a moment before they could eat. Carefully putting the steaks on the plate, he moved to grab the pan. The sink was empty, so he just put the pan in there. He'll get to it later, of course.  

As the pasta was cooking, he decided to make an Alfredo sauce to go with the pasta. So it wasn't all bland. Taking out a jar of Prego, he put it into a small pot and turned the burner on low. To not burn the sauce.

The mask he wore was meant to be kept up. Kai knew that every mask eventually slips. It was something that he wasn't looking forward to. The day he'd just fold and say everything truly on his mind. For now, he'd keep it all inside, where it belongs. It was only a matter of time to where he couldn't hold all of it in anymore. Yet Kai chose to believe that he could keep to himself forever. 

A part of his grief was that he still loved Katya. Another part was that he blamed himself for her death. After all, he paid for the flight. In his mind, he killed her. Every once in a while he would visit her grave. To just talk. To apologize. Now that Evageline was here, he would have to find time to visit Katya outside of the normal time. The reason he kept it all in was because he didn't want to burden anyone with his feelings, and his grief. 

It had been only a few years since her death and he replayed the moment he found out every night. Even still had nightmares about it. Where she'd be there one second and another second, gone. The worst ones were when she'd shun him and talk about how much she hates him. The plague went on daily. It rarely left his mind. Yet he refused help. He wanted nothing to do with therapy.

His parents weren't there to make him hate such thing, so why did he? Kai never really thought about it. Maybe he was depressed, but because he was a man he felt he needed to just gulp it all down and stay quiet. Society made him feel the need to just sit down and shut up. He didn't matter, so neither did his struggles. That's how he viewed it. So, that's how he lived.

Everything was finally done. The sauce was warmed, noodles were done, as was the steak. Kai put it all on the plates in even portions then took them to the table. With no clue of where Evageline would sit, he just found a spot to put her plate then put his in his normal spot. Sitting down, he zoned out for a moment before eventually moving to grab a bite. The table was already set, thank God.

“What do you think? Is it better than ramen and  canned food?”

Watching as Kai cooked she understood a little bit about why he had that rule in place. She understood that he was still hurting over losing the one person he cared about the most. Was she being selfish for wanting to break the rules? Was she being selfish for wanting that contact and not in a sexual way? She felt guilty for even asking him to break his own rule. But it was a step in the right direction. She cocked her head to the side as he spoke of traveling. She'd never traveled outside of the country and it's been a dream of hers.

Was he being serious? She did perk up a little bit at the mention of it. “If you are serious about it, I've always wanted to go to the most romantic place in the world. Italy and Paris. I've dreamed of going to both places since I was a little girl. When I was seventeen, I found out daddy had planned this whole trip for me and him to take. He wanted me to see the world, and then a couple weeks later I was gone.. I was pulled into this nightmare I've been living in”

“So if you really mean it, I would love to go to both of those places. If not both, then at least one of them. I would love to see the world with you” she said softly. She was feeling some sort of bond forming between the two of them, and she didn't know if she was just reading too much into it, or if the male was feeling it too. She had seen some parts of himself that he let slip and it did warm her heart a little bit. She looked towards the pan of steaks and her mouth watered.

“Medium Rare please. I do enjoy my steaks a little bloody” she said lightly. There were a few rare times she had it, and it was like a special treat. She wasn't spoiled with it, but just the smell of it was making her even more hungry. When they were finished she slipped off the countertop and helped get the plates for Kai. She watched as the male finished up the pasta and she was getting more and more excited for this meal. “It smells amazing Kai, it really does.” she breathed out. When it was all finished she followed behind him.

She walked over to the chair he had placed the plate in front of and sat down. She pulled one of her legs up under her and reached for the knife and fork. Her mouth watered even more as she cut into the steak. It was cooked perfectly, there was a little bit of blood the way she liked. She took the first bite and a low moan passed through her lips. This was the best steak she had ever eaten. It was better than going to a sit down restaurant and having someone else cook it for her.

Her eyes drifted closed as she enjoyed the flavors. Her eyes opened when Kai's voice broke though her thoughts. “Holy fuck Kai. This is amazing. I mean it. It's a hell of a lot better than what I was planning on cooking. So thank you” she said as she took another bite from the steak. She then tasted the pasta and it tasted amazing as well. Kai really went all out when he didn't have too. She slowly looked up towards the male and picked up the napkin and wiped the corner of her lips before speaking again.

“I know it's been hard for you to open up to me, and I really do appreciate you putting in the effort. Is there anything you want from me in return?” she asked. She knew it wouldn't be anything sexual, but she was willing to repay him in any way possible. She fell silent as she took another bite and enjoyed the flavors from the steak and the pasta.