The Beauty And The Don

The dim light from the cracked window fell across Arianna's face, casting long, jagged shadow. the room was silent, save for the faint, irregular breath of mother, who lay unconscious in the bed beside her, every inhale sounded like it might be her last, and each time arianna 's gaze flicked toward her. she couldn't shake the sensation that time was running out

Her finger tightened around the prescription bottle in her hand. the pills inside were almost gone, and the money to refill them was now where to be found . Neither was the rent or the overdue bills.

Her phone buzzed on the table an anonymous number, she hesitated before unlocking it .

"job available tonight, Exclusive club. No questions asked, Dress appropriately".

Arianna 's stomach tightened ,she knew the kind of place the message hinted at the dangerous ,dark, a word she 'd never dared to enter .but there was no choice . her mother's illness had drained what little saving they had left. the weight of their circumstance pressed down on arianna's chest , a constant reminder that her life had become a series of compromises .tonight would be no different .

She glanced at her mother again Her heart heavy with the unspoken promises that she would do whatever it took.Even if it means selling whatever remained of her dignity.

The club was a universe away from the cold , grim apartment . as soon as arianna stepped through the heavy doors the noise hit her the low hum of laugher, the clinck of glasses ,and the sharp thrum of bass that seemed to shake they very air . the light were dim, but the red glow of neon seeped from every corner, casting the room in an eerie, seductive hue.

She followed the hostess through narrow corridors, her heels tapping against the sleek floors, in the dressing room, other women were already preparing, adjusting their outfits, applying makeup, rehearing their routines. Arianna kept to herself, drawing a deep breath as she unzipped the beg she came with and pulled out the dress, a figure-hugging number that barely covered more than the essentials. The fabric clung to her skin, too revealing, but it was the uniform here. And there was no room for hesitation.