Claimed by the Mafia

BETH'S POV :

New York City, the city for flashy broadways, exclusive shops, expensive apartments and high flying business tycoons is where the land of opportunity lies. Or so people think.

To me it's the city for depression, unaffordable rent, unbearable traffic, screaming people, bustling roads, gamblers and many more.

And in this concrete jungle lies one of the most world famous multi national telecommunications company; The Marino telecom. I looked at it in awe letting my eyes roam the gigantic building as the taxi I boarded drove past. People were walking in and out , everyone looking so busy and professional.

I wonder what it'd feel like to work in the corporate world ,what it'd be like to work under a man like Vitali Marino. I have heard stories of his ruthlessness and how he never hesitates to get his staff fired at the slightest act of misconduct but a part of me felt it was all exaggerated, the stories of his ruthlessness and all, surely no one could be that evil.

The taxi driver honks furiously at another driver and that brings me back to reality. Soon I was at my stop, I worked at a coffee shop and then after my day shift, I would go work at a night club. I worked two jobs so I could afford rent, food and also save up money for my fees .

I was a high school graduate but I couldn't go to college because my father had no money, since then I decided to take destiny into my own hands and work hard to send myself to college one day.

I was a sucker for education, I had always been that perfect straight A student .

"Good morning Mr jade " I greet my boss

"You're late again!!" He scowls at me

"I'm sorry" I apologize honestly, these past few days have been difficult for me. I haven't been getting enough sleep because I had to work extra hours at the club just to get a little extra pay. Our rent is due soon and my father wastes all his money on drinks and gambling .

"A sorry won't save you tomorrow " he warned and walked away

Letting out a deep sigh, I get behind the counter and put on an apron ready to serve.

The smell of freshly baked croissants hit my nose and my belly rumbles reminding me that I haven't had breakfast.

"There's a couple who just got here , I think you should go get their order " Mae my co worker alerts me as she puts together another customer's order.

I simply nod.

"What would you like to order ma'am and sir " I say giving my brightest smile .

The lady looks at me with contempt

"Why are you smiling at my husband? " she queries

"What?" I asked utterly bewildered.

She cocks a brow

"I ...I'm sorry " I quickly apologized while looking at the floor .

"Get out of here and have another waiter serve us instead . Idiot! " she spat

I looked at her husband for help or a little defense but got none. I tried to fight back my tears and as I nodded and walked away.

I hated myself, I should have said something , she didn't have to make me feel so small, I should have defended myself .

I didn't know how to defend myself, I always let people walk all over me because I was too scared to say something.

**************

After what seemed like forever I was done with my shift at the coffee shop, I was to go home, have lunch and freshen up for my night shift at the club .

As I stepped into the front porch , I could hear voices in the sitting room, these weren't the usual voices of happy drunk men talking boisterously and laughing. It sounded like voices of conflict.

I pushed open the door.