Episode 2

"I came to claim my share," she said, gazing at the elderly woman while disregarding the man beside her.

"Is that any way to treat such an important man, girl?"

"I only see a disgusting man, nothing more. Now, where's my share of the money?" Eva asked, confronting Mercedes.

The older woman took out her cellphone and transferred the money into the girl's account. Upon receiving the notification, she felt satisfied.

"Thank you, have a good night."

With those words, she left, leaving the two behind sipping their drinks.

On her way out, Eva bumped into Lara, and they headed home. The night flew by; Eva barely rested, as she had to prepare for her upcoming performance. This could be her big break, potentially securing her spot in the dance auditions happening in the United States.

"Good morning," she said to the judges assessing her performance.

Eva's movements were graceful, her focus sharp and her determination unwavering. Despite the challenges of her nightlife, she managed to score top marks. After her performance, she was to await an email detailing her results.

Walking to the restaurant she had noticed on the way to the studio, Eva became aware that she was being followed by a man with a familial air about him.

"Why are you following me?" Eva asked.

"I saw you walking by and decided we're going to have lunch together," Riccardo said, a laugh in his voice.

"I don't recall inviting you for lunch," she replied, staring into his dark eyes.

"Girl, I'm not asking—I'm telling. You're going to have lunch with me, whether you like it or not."

"Who do you think you are?" she challenged, stepping closer. "Just say what you want from me," her patience wearing thin.

"I'm curious why you won't accept my offer," he said.

"You must have some kind of problem. I'm not one of those other girls you're used to devouring."

"I never thought you were because I know you're untouched. That's why I offered you a million dollars—to be your first and ensure a great experience."

"I've seen the kind of 'great experience' you can offer. You're disgusting. I would never accept your ridiculous proposal, even if I were starving," Eva retorted sharply, appalled by such an indecent proposition. Despite her need for money, she was not willing to sell herself.

She walked away, leaving the man standing on the sidewalk, watching her retreat. Riccardo admired Eva's boldness, but it sometimes irritated him.

Eva arrived at her modest home on the outskirts almost an hour later than expected, after walking more than a mile on foot.

"I thought you weren't coming back," Lara said upon seeing her enter.

"I know I'm late. I'm going to take a shower, and then we'll head out to work."

After getting ready, Eva met up with Lara, holding onto the hope that she would pass the auditions and wouldn't have to consider Riccardo's vile offer.

"Thanks, I haven't eaten all day. Let's go before we miss the bus," Eva said, grabbing a sandwich and her bag before heading out.

"Don't worry, we have a ride today. I have a bachelor party to dance at."

"You could help with these gigs, they pay more than overnight shifts in that dive."

"I know you need money, but you won't take the job on offer," Lara hinted at the prospect of going to bed with a client.

"I've told you, that's not work for me. I don't judge you for doing it, but I can't do that to my body."

"I didn't invite you because I knew you wouldn't agree, but if something more mellow comes up, I'll let you know. Now, let's go before we lose our ride."

They walked towards the avenue, a mile from their home, where Jaime was waiting for them.

"Good evening, Jaime," the girls greeted as they got into the car.

"Evening, girls. Ready for tonight?" he asked.

"I hope it's a busy night," Eva responded.

Chatting away, they arrived at the club. Eva went inside to work and Lara headed to her event.

After his encounter with Eva, Riccardo went to his headquarters to oversee some shipments that were set to be moved.

"Caleb, this cargo is worth millions. I need it to go smoothly and nothing can go wrong. If I lose even a dollar, heads will roll, and that includes yours," he threatened.

He had a meeting lined up with potential buyers and confirmed the time with his secretary before heading home to get ready.

The meeting was to be held at the same club where Eva worked. Upon arrival, he made his way to his usual room and awaited the young woman's performance.

Eva had received the email about her audition that morning; she had been accepted into the selection process and immediately called Lara to share the news.

While Eva was on the phone, Riccardo was listening intently until he positioned himself in front of her.

"Need money, sweetheart?" he asked, stroking her face.

"If you were eavesdropping on my call, you already know the answer," she said, turning to leave.

"I know of a business where you could make a lot of money," he said nonchalantly, hands in his pockets.

"I've already told you, I won't sell myself to you," Eva raised her voice, her anger flaring.

"Don't flatter yourself, girl. I do want you, but I'll wait for you to beg for it. I know people who'll pay a lot for a different kind of service."

Eva stared at him, waiting for him to continue, but he remained silent.

"Speak up, what do you know?" Eva demanded impatiently.

When it came to her dream, Eva was willing to consider almost anything to achieve her ultimate goal.

"I don't have all day for you to make me wait," her patience had all but evaporated.

"It's a serious proposition, being a surrogate mother. What do you think?"

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