First Job Part V

Then I remembered I hadn’t eaten and was carrying the bag with the wrong order. I saw a bench nearby in the shade.
I would sit there. Let’s see what’s inside.
I opened the package and saw a box of seafood, something green to drink and some fruitcake. From what I noticed I could conclude that it was not just an ordinary cake..
-Itadakimas.
Wait a minute, I don’t say something like that before eating. I heard it from somewhere. It’s probably no big deal, just don’t make it a habit.
I pulled the plastic fork out of the bag. Inside were napkins, salt, ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise and even a toothpick,
Interesting. Do they get this all the time? I didn’t know the answer, but I knew it was definitely some kind of conspiracy. But even if it was I didn’t have the brain capacity to over think it.
I opened the box of seafood and started eating.
Hmm, delicious. Do the rich have the privilege of eating such things? I knew next to nothing about the lifestyles of the rich. Doesn’t matter.
As someone who hadn’t eaten in three days, so did I, but I choked.
Let me try this drink. There’s no way it’s not good.
I opened the bottle and try it.
It tastes sweet. It must just be a diluent. Still, let me look at the label.
Only natural fruits and vegetables are used for our juices. Live healthy!
Um, okay, wait a minute, so it’s from real fruit. Usually everywhere I go they mix “natural juices” with something they dilute and add ice.
Gulp after gulp I could feel myself finishing it down before I knew it.
Let me stop drinking and keep eating.
As I ate I noticed many workers watching me.
Even blind, I could tell that the expression on my face was happy. On the other hand, maybe there was another reason they were looking at me.
While I was calmly eating an old man approached me. His work clothes were torn all over the place and “stitched” with staples. There was oil in many places and other things that could not be cleaned.
-What are you doing here?
-I?
-Do you see anyone else here, young man?
-No.
-Then answer me.
-I’m looking for work.
-But aren’t you from the rich neighborhood, young man?
-No, Grandfa.
-Well, I’m still not a grandfa. What can you do?
-Well… I don’t really know, but I need to get a job.
-That’s a good thing, but is there a specific reason?
-Yes, there is. I can live with money. And if I want a girlfriend I have to have money on hand. I can’t rely on Mom all my life.
-I was like that at the time, too. You could say I haven’t moved from here. I don’t know how to say it, but when you start here you won’t get away or move up. Here you just put up with everything.
-It can’t be that bad.
-Young man, only people who can’t do anything work here. Do you think the common workers here have any idea what they’re doing?
-Shouldn’t they know?
-They should, but really they just do what the others do. Most of the bullies or people with low education are gathered here to do hard work that requires no brain savvy. Here all are…
-Are they all?
-What was that buzzword… Ro…
-?
-… Ah, yes robots. They all work like robots.
-Yeah. I’ve been looking for a job all day today with no luck, so I thought I’d give it a try here.
-And I’ll tell you again, this is no place for kids like you.
-Thanks for the warning.
-No need for that.
The old man’s gone. I saw him take an old loaf of bread out of his bag and with some salami he was about to eat. The others were still staring at me, but it seems they started to eat too. It was hot, and while I was talking to the old man sweetly I had the meal. I ate the seafood and when I looked at the others they looked at me as if I was purposely teasing them with the food. That wasn’t my intention, but that’s how it worked out. Now it was time for the cake. Just opening the package the smell alone made me drool.
-Get this one, enough mocking us!
One of the many workers didn’t seem to hold back.
-Did you come to mock us, sissy?
-Get out of here, you lazy bastard!
-Go back to “yours” and don’t come back!
Apparently I couldn’t eat it in peace. I put the cake and the juice in my bag and got up.
Let’s move on with the other seven jobs. Let’s see.
We’re looking for general laborers for a poultry slaughterhouse.
I honestly didn’t even know what mom was thinking as she marked it. Anyway. Hopefully I’ll see someone to ask where it is, they don’t have an address.
-Excuse me.
-Please.
-Hey.
Workers passed me, but no one turned and answered me. I walked into a part of town where I knew nothing. I was walking blind. I almost gave up looking for the place and moved on to the next ad and saw a big building with some chicken.
Well, if that’s not it, I don’t know where it will be.
With that, I headed over to the building. When I got there I noticed that the entrance was not on that side.
There had to be somewhere to enter from.
I walked around the building as far as I could looking for an entrance, but never found one.
-Hey, you!
It’s got to be here somewhere.
-I’m talking to you!
I’m not blind.
-ARE YOU MOCKING ME?
Then I noticed someone was talking.
-Are you talking to me?
-Yes, to you!
-Oh, I’m sorry. I just didn’t know how to get in.
-Do you have some business here?
-I’m here for the job at the bird slaughterhouse.
-Boy, do you tolerate blood or to kill?
-Well, no.
-Then don’t waste your time. Only crazy people work here. I’m security. I’m even paranoid because of the workers. I can’t sleep in peace.
-Isn’t there something else?
-Between you and me, stay away from here. Neither the money nor anything is worth it. I’ve got a few months of tenure left and I’m retiring and getting out of here. They’ve taken enough of my health.
-I see. Bye.
I knew it was far from a good idea, but to be this bad I didn’t think. Or was Mom just teasing me? Truth is, by the end of the day, one way or another, people were discouraging me from working on other people’s
six places. They were right. What to do? Some places it’s better not to know anything about them. The jobs were as I expected entirely physical. Now I’m on the bus on my way back.
-Hey, kid.
-Are you talking to me?
-Yeah, you. Having trouble getting a job?
-Yeah, something like that.
I didn’t even know why I was being honest.
-Here I have a job for a few days. It’s not much, but it’s better than nothing.
-And what’s the catch?
-There isn’t one. It’s just small things for an hour or two to be done in a few days.
-How much will I get?
-Well, 40 euros.
-Isn’t that a lot for 6 hours.
-Everyone’s looking for constant work, and we need a man for a few days. In the meantime, you can get a job. Are you ready?
-Well, I’ve got nothing to lose. Count me in, but where will I find you. – -Well, close to the downtown would be the job. You’ll go to 24 XXX XXX XXXXX Street. You know where the street is, don’t you?
-Yeah.
-Tomorrow at 15:00 come.
-All right, see you tomorrow.
After that conversation, I felt like all my hard work to find a job paid off todayeven if it was for a few days.
When I got home and told my mom all about the work she couldn’t stop laughing, but then she was skeptical about the job. We had oven roasted chicken and rice for dinner. I crawled into bed and fell asleep without even curling up.
Hopefully I wouldn’t catch cold.

First Job Part IV

I couldn’t contain myself, but that was the truth the others were pointing out.
-And yet do not believe that is the case. Even the most inept are useful, somewhere, and you are not. You’re just beating it into your head.
-Do you really think so, Stella?
-I’m more than convinced. Everyone’s good at something. But everybody spits on other people’s bad points, but don’t let that stop you!
-Are you saying that from experience?
-Yes, Deni. When I was a child I was often made fun of for being weak in math and P.E., but as you yourself noted I have a gift for playing the violin.
Stella took a sip and then a second.
-I wasn’t a good student either, but I was slightly above average.
-I’d find that hard to believe.
-And now are you going to start doing it too?
-It definitely sucks to be made fun of, especially when you’re present.
-It’s undeniable.
-Well, when do you plan on having a girlfriend?
It came out of the blue, but I had to be honest with Stella.
-Actually, I’m looking, but no luck so far.
-Is that so?
-Yes.
Then I wish you best of luck. You’re on the right track. Just don’t give up or quit!
-Thank you very much.
I drank my sprite and got up.
-Now I have to go.
-Wait.
-?
-I’ll have a concert with an orchestra in a hall in two months. I’d love for you to attend.
-But I don’t have any money.
-No problem, here’s your VIP ticket.
-I don’t deserve it.
-Just take it.
Stella gave me the ticket by force, I took it and started back to my destination.
-He’s not bad.
-Not at all, Mike.
-You’re a bigger sister and you can teach him this or that.
-Aren’t you looking for a fight?
-No, it’s not like that.
Stella drank the rest of her drink and got up.
-Where are you going?
-To keep playing.
-Boss, how much longer do we have to follwo him?
-Have patience. Soon he’ll be desperate and easy to trick. Just make sure you don’t give yourself away.
-No, I won’t, but the girl which was next to him seemed nice.
-So what? She’s no use to us for anything. Well, concentrate on the young man. Now after him!
How many surprises were in store for me today I didn’t know, but only by walking forward could I figure them out. So only forward, and what will be-shall be. The alley leading to the fast food place wasn’t far. I almost reached it. It would take me to the end of downtown and the beginning of the rich people’s neighborhood. The place was literally teeming with people in expensive clothes, cars and whatnot.
As if it was a different world there, not the same one. Same applied for their way of thinking. They thought of themselves as more than others, but whatever a person was, they remained meat, bone and soul. I do not see the difference between them and us. All the shops here sold everything so expensive. It was like they were boutiques. I didn’t even have the courage to look at the people passing by here. About
them I’d just be an annoying fly getting in the way of their otherwise perfect lives. And whether that was really the case was another matter. I was trying as hard as I could not to be reflected in their eyes and
to find this place to make a quick meals. Surely everything in it would be expensive too. It didn’t matter. God, I nearly tripped over my own feet. Looks like alcohol in the cocktail after all, they gave me at my first job was starting to kick in. I didn’t know exactly where the place was, so I decided to ask a shopkeeper.
-Hello.
-Hey, poor guy, don’t beg.
-No, I’m not.
-Get out.
And that was their good welcome. I’d hate to think what their bad reception would have been. On to the next shop.
-Hey, can you…
-These clothes are from my great-grandmother’s time. You must be someone digging out of the dump. Get out.
I passed that store, too.
-Hey, can you…
-This isn’t a homeless people shelter.
I swear these people need a psychologist, but I don’t think he’d help them. It was best to ignore them or I’d kill them. Not literally, of course. I decided to use fate as a guide to guide myself, and so I checked out each store with a glance. It wasn’t long before I stumbled upon the place I was looking for, and it was literally across the street from where the rich man’s neighborhood begins. I walked into it. All eyes were on me and if not for what I usually get stared at for, here it was for my appearance. Somehow I gathered my courage and spoke.
-Can I speak to the manager?
A second. Two. Three. Four. Five.
-Yeah, come this way.
I followed one of the restaurant staff.
-Mr. Trakiyev, this one wants to speak to you.
-All right. What is it, young man?
-Well… I saw the job ad and I came.
-Do you have any experience in this field?
-No, but in the ad.
-You don’t, but even if you did, I wouldn’t take you. Your clothes are cheap and unclean. It would only ruin the name of otherwise good place to eat.
-Boss.
-I didn’t know you had such demands.
-Besides, I see you share nothing in common with us. It just won’t do.
=Boss.
-Yeah, what’s the matter, Yanni?
-One order was returned. What are we gonna do about it?
-Let’s see. Give it to this boy. At least he had the guts to come here, but he’s not like us. Isn’t he?
-That’s right, Boss.
All the workers shouted together.
-Kid, here’s your food. I hope you’ll remember this moment, because you’ll hardly ever have a chance to eat something this good.
I didn’t answer him, I just accepted the package of food and something to drink.
-Now get out of the back and don’t come around again! You’ll only ruin the image of this place!
Even if he wanted to I wouldn’t do it. I feel completely ashamed and like it’s just a reason not to get picked up.
I’m done with the downtown. Now on to the industrial area. I had to catch a bus to take me there because it was not a bit far from downtown. I saw the familiar driver and he charged me for the fare as a student. I sat in literally the first available seat. There weren’t many people for the industrial area, and most of the people working there were catching the earliest bus at six. I was beginning to think this was just temporary and that things would probably get better. Just bad luck. Whether it was or in reality is another matter, but let’s think positive.
Next stop industrial area.
Before I knew it the last stop came and expectedly I was the only one left. I got up and started to get off.
-Good luck, boy.
Then the driver called before I got off.
-Thank you very much.
In the industrial area, in a nutshell, it’s a black job. The first job was to unload building supplies at a warehouse. The place was less than a hundred metres from the bus stop. I headed there. While I was walking
I could see other workers working tirelessly without taking a breath as the expression goes. You could certainly liken them to worker bees. The hundred meters were not even two minutes walking.
-Hello.
I called to a worker who was unloading building supplies.
-Hello.
-Can I talk to your boss?
-Yes, of course. I’ll call him right now.
He turned out to be a polite man, or so I thought. After a minute a big giant appeared.
-What do you want, boy?
-You have a job advertisement and I came to ask for a job.
-What?
-Yes, I want to work here.
-Gut, ’cause the job’s simple. Ya load building supplies. Whatever you damage is taken out of your wage.
-How many hours. What’s the pay?
-Cinco, to be honest, I don’t think this job is for you. We work here from 8 to 12 hours depending on how much stock we take. You work when we call you. You get 4 euros an hour.
-He’s right. The job is not for you.
After some thought, I agreed. It really was a very physical job and I could only really work to pay for what I damaged.
-Thank you very much. Bye.
One down and seven to go.

First Job Part III

With that, I looked at the location of the third job: at a fast food restaurant. It was located between the edge of downtown and the beginning of the rich neighborhood. The stares of the others did not disappear. I might even say they increased after I left the Witch’s Trinkets. It was now afternoon, which reminded me that I needed to get something to eat. I pulled out my mp3 player and put my headphones on. If nothing else, I should at least be in a good mood. It was best to ignore the others. I was neither going to win nor lose.
-Come get your ice cream balls!
I could see a middle-aged man selling ice cream. Many were stopping to take some.
-I want two balls.
-Which ones?
-Caramel and watermelon.
-Right away. You’re welcome.
-Here’s three euros.
Strange combinations, but a lot of people had gathered. Whether small children or adults.
-What would you like?
-One ball of cherry and one ball of strawberry.
-Now. One-two, here.
-Here’s the money.
The man was smiling. This couldn’t be a permanent job, it was seasonal. But that didn’t change the fact that he was smiling and that attracted customers. Not just the smile, but his mannerisms and the way he did his job was different from the others to say the least. Whether or not he was making a lot of money I had no way of knowing, but what I could see was that the people who picked up ice cream had smiles on their faces. That in itself was a reward. Or at least that’s how I’d like to conclude, but realistically I didn’t know any more than the naked eye could see. Even though I was listening to music I could hear everything.
-Excuse me, I’ll take three balls.
-Which ones?
-Vanilla with chocolate bars, banana and apple.
-I’ll do it. One-two-three. Come in, young lady.
-Four euros and fifty cents.
-Thank you very much.
It was like this place was from another world. And then where was I? Maybe I just didn’t exist or I was a world away? Was it the other way around? You can almost imagine the beautiful picture revealing themselves to me.
Maybe I just wasn’t a part of it? I didn’t have time to think about it because I was so far away from the stall of man. How incredibly easy it is for people to become happy… Will I ever be able to experience that feeling and hold it forever? Wait a minute, before that I need to get a job, Yes, a job.
I continued on, wondering if I was going to get a job by the end of the day. Then on a street corner I saw a woman playing a violin. I stopped the mp3 player and took off the headphones. I had no way of knowing what she was playing.
More and more modern music is pulling away from these instruments and styles in music. I could see she was giving it her all even though it wasn’t appreciated.
-Stupid lady, who listens to this kind of stuff?
-If it’s not rap, it’s not cool!
-Ignore her. She must think there’s no other way to make money.
-Just watch her brag that she can play and wants us to pay her. She must be joking.
-What’s that awful tune?
And many other people passing by commented negatively or pretended not to hear the music from the violin or see the woman.
You could hardly blame them. After all, society is always cruel and looking to trample on others to feel superior.
And like the others, I walked past it. Sure maybe I was more sensitive than others or just a fool, but I stopped.
-I’m not a big fan of this music, but I can see that you are making an effort and I’m sure you will one day succeed.
Did I say that out loud?
Then the girl stopped and turned to me.
-Thanks.
I said it out loud…
-Ah, no problem.
Until now she didn’t care what others said, but when she heard my words it was as if the sun was shining and she showed a warm smile.
There’s no way it’s for me.
-I’ll take a break. Do you want to sit somewhere?
-Are you talking to me?
-I don’t see anyone else but you.
-All right then.
-I’ll just put down my instrument and we’ll sit somewhere.
-Well, I…
-I haven’t eaten any men. Now come with me.
She grabbed me and pulled hard.
Women get surprisingly strong in certain situations.
She literally pushed me to… to something like a street coffee shop.
-Here a friend work.
-Why am I here?
-You’re the first.
-The first?
-The first one who even though he doesn’t know much about classical music said something like that.
-Is that it? I meant…To not say it out loud. Yes, anyone could say it.
-But not everyone has the courage to say it. People are cruel and they look for ways to spit on others.
-It’s human nature.
-You say that from experience?
-Excuse me, what would you like?
-Sprite.
-And you?
-Well…I couldn’t just say a bottle of water.
I thought about it for a long time, but it was unlikely to be for the good of the other customers.
-I’d want the same.
-Two Sprites. Understood.
The bartender at the little place pulled out two glasses, put ice and then straws and gave them to us. Then he pulled two Sprites out of the fridge.
-You’re very considerate of others. You could have thought a little more.
-Mike, here’s the money.
-No, I’ll pay.
I handed the money to the Mike in question. I didn’t know exactly how much it would cost, so I gave a ten euro note.
-Thanks, here’s your change.
He gave me back six euros.
-Aren’t you lucky?
-I am?
-They’re usually more expensive, and he only gives me a discount.
-Seriously?
-Whatever. I’d like to ask you your name, but let me introduce myself first. My name is Stella.
-The name’s Deni.
-Okay, Deni, what are you doing here?
-Well…
-Let me guess. You were taking a walk.
-No. I went to look for a job in the ads.
-A job, huh? Hard to find. It’s like they have a job but no cash.
Stella opened her sprite and poured it into her glass. Out of habit, I did the same.
Strange habit. I wonder who I got it from?
-I graduated this year and I need to get a job. Can’t do without money.
-You’re right. I’m a sophomore in music college. There’s not enough money for the semesters or anything. The scholarship and aid for poorer families doesn’t go anywhere. That’s why instead of a big hall performing great works in an orchestra, I’m forced to do it on the street.
-There is no easy life.
-There is. It’s just me. Everybody else has famous parents and is rich accordingly.
-I wouldn’t put it that way. Even…
Stella took a sip and interrupted me.
-The rich have it easy in life.
-I don’t believe they have it as easy as you think. Stella, it’s not the money that’s important, it’s who we are.
-Isn’t that just idle talk?
-Even if it is, I won’t go back on my words.
-You’re an interesting man.
-You might as well have said a man who’s easy to fool around or something.
-No, you’re not. Or at least not completely, but I can already see you as an individual in the crowd.
-?
I didn’t know what she was talking about.
-Let’s just say you’re not like the others.
-Even blind people know that much.
-Don’t be so hard on yourself.
-It’s true. I was constantly made fun of and bullied at school. In general…
-You weren’t a bully. I’m gonna ask you.
-?
-Have you ever had a girlfriend?
-If you haven’t figured it out by now, I neved had one.
-But you can pretend and try your luck with me and then leave me.
-Another time.
-Another time?
-Means that’ not the case. You don’t look bad, but to be honest, I’m pretty sure you’ll find someone better than me.
She had such beautiful purple eyes and dark hair. On the surface, she might have left something to be desired, but she wasn’t skin and bones.
-But you and your modesty.
-True. You have a future, and I… You’re like a flower that will one day bloom, and I’m a decaying seed in comparison.
-It’s not like that.
-It is. I can see it in your eyes. You have confidence, and I’m sure that the world out there is waiting for you. Not the other way around! With or without me, the world goes on.
I sip a little from my sprite.
-You pretend too much.
-What are you talking about?
-Kiddin. I just couldn’t contain myself, but you… You… You always put others above yourself and say nice things about them, but you always…
-You make yourself unimportant. But I don’t, and it is so.
I couldn’t hold back.

First Job Part II

-Next stop a shop looking for sellers.
The ad itself only gave the address. We’ll see what comes up. According to the address, I had to walk about a mile to get to my destination. I watched couples go out here and there.
-How I was jealous of them, I wish I had a girlfriend too.
-Sweetie, stay away from that guy. Nothing good awaits you.
-Why, he doesn’t seem like a bad guy.
-It doesn’t matter. He’s a loser.
-So?
-He is a gay?
-Seriously?
-Well, some of his “friends” told me he’s not interested in women. You don’t want him to rape me.
-That sounds exciting!
-Oh, you Deni! Stay away from me!
-Guys, look who’s here!
-Oh, there’s Deni.
-How you doing, ninja?
What I didn’t want. To meet more of the old bullies. There’s no getting rid of them. That day when I ran away from Rosa on the way back I was the object of their mocking. As if the other things weren’t enough for me.
-Are you ignoring us?
Their leader called.
-Just because you’re wasting your time with me doesn’t it mean no one wants you to work for them?
-Why you!
-What did you say? Who doesn’t want us? We’ll smash his face in!
-Bring him in!
So I was right, but they wouldn’t admit it. Well, whatever.
-I see you’re awfully busy, and I have to go. See you soon.
I think I managed to get rid of them. Whatever I did, if they were around things would go from bad to worse, but let me think positive. There were definitely a lot of places downtown where you could buy from a snack, go through anything and everything, all the way to a supermarket. It was all in the center of town. Top dating place, and me on the other hand…
-Not yet, Deni do not fret.
Full ahead I gave towards the shop.
The truth is I didn’t even know what it was for. I’d have found out, but everywhere I looked I could see beautiful girls waiting for someone to pick them up, I mean seduce and captivate them. Unfortunately for them, or rather me, I was not the one. I had a long way to go to reach their hearts and make them fight for me. Until then, I’d be out in the wilderness alone. I looked down the street and saw that the store must be somewhere nearby. The strange thing was, I couldn’t see any shop. Or at least at first glance.
I saw a woman coming out of what looked like a larger building.
-Excuse me, ma’am.
-Are you talking to me?
-Yes, to you.
-What do you want, young man?
-There must be a shop around here somewhere. Do you know where it is?
-Let’s see. Shop. . . Ah, yes. There is a souvenir shop here. If you ask me, you’d better not go inside.
-Why?
-You get the chills. There’s scary stuff in there. Once you go in, you’re changed forever.
-Sounds like a house of horrors.
-You could call it that.
-And where is it?
-Well, from where I came in at the bottom of the corridor, but I still wouldn’t advise you to go in.
-Why?
-Well, I regularly hear screams and shouts from there. You don’t know what’s going on inside. Many times the neighbours and I complain to the landlord, but he’s a relative and doesn’t listen to us. The rent is low here otherwise.
-Is that so?
-Yes, but now I have to go.
-Thank you very much, madam.
I bowed, as did she, for some reason, and she went about her business.
I still don’t know whether to believe her or not, but there’s only one way to find out. I headed towards the large building. For some unknown reason people were looking at me strangely, but that wasn’t new. Did they hear what I said to the woman or not? There is no way to know for certain.
After a few steps, I found myself in front of the entrance.
-Should I proceed or not?
Fate loves brave people so I’m going to go ahead. Now at the bottom of the corridor. let’s go.
And there I am. The sign on the door said ” Witch’s Trinkets”. After hesitating for a second, I knocked on the door.
-You can come in.
I opened the door and walked in and what to see.
The woman was literally dressed like a witch. starting with the hat, going to the outfit and getting to the broom. I’d rather call it a Halloween store.
-Good day.
-Good to be.
-I’m here for the job ad.
-I knew somebody would come.
While we were talking I had time to look around and saw all sorts of things. All sorts of necklaces, snakes, spiders and whatnot from witch culture. I don’t think it would attract normal people. It’s not like I’m normal, but still. Are there any customers at all? And that like many other things about this shop remained a mystery. i do know that some mysteries are better left unknown, so I’ll try to be direct. But even so, I didn’t know what to say.
-Do you want tea and biscuits?
-Thank you very much.
-There’s no reason why. It often gets boring here. It’s times like this that I like to watch horror movies.
That explains the screams and the strange atmosphere.
-What about the job.
-Where are you in a hurry for? Hey now, I’m going to make the tea and we’re going to watch one of my favorite movies.
-Um…
Before I knew it, she had literally disappeared. When she got back with the tea and biscuits, she played a film and I could have sworn I had not watched a scarier or more realistic horror film. I even screamed like a girl. How could I not be ashamed.
-How was the movie?
-Well, pretty real.
It was without a doubt. I really wish the bullies from school would come visit her.
-Yeah, that’s it. There were no stuntmen or effects back then. Everything was real.
-Seriously?
You mean the actors have experienced everything? I think even with my patience I’m beginning to doubt that this is the right place to work.
-Yes, seriously. Mom and Dad say I can’t be here all the time. And I’m often alone, so I was thinking of hiring a capable person to work here and be my companion at the same time.
-Wait a minute. I graduated not a month ago and I have no experience.
-So?
-Just the address was on the ad.
-I’ll take a look. You’re right. I’m gonna call to get it fixed.
I didn’t think that would change anything.
-I’m very sorry, but I don’t think I can help you…
-Ah, my name is Magdalena.
-Bye, Magdalena.
-Bye, boy.
I literally fled this place in fear and terror. Not only could I not help her, but I didn’t know if I would have kept my sanity.

First Job Part I

I woke up not so well. I had the feeling that something wasn’t going to be right at all. Whether I was right or wrong didn’t matter. Time ticked by even if I didn’t move from the bed all day. I got up and was okay.
-Good morning, Mom.
On my way out of the bathroom I saw mom.
-Good morning, my boy.
-What’s for breakfast?
-You haven’t opened your eyes yet, and you’re hungry. That’s my champion!
-Stop it, Mom!
–Okay, toast, sliced cheese, tomato and cucumber.
-Cool.
-Come on, be more cheerful.
-Yay!
-The same thing. Today after breakfast, you’re gonna go ask for a job I marked in the paper. I nodded and we both headed to the living room. As Mom said there were a few toasted slices of bread on the table, and on another plate was sliced cheese, tomatoes and cucumber. It was a light breakfast.
-I’ll turn on the TV, dear.
-Okay, Mom.
-The topic in today’s news is a gang of criminals forcing others to commit the crimes for them. They often “hire” people to work without a contract, and besides getting others to steal in a roundabout way, they don’t pay you and often leave you to “guard” the crime scene.
-How dare! Someone has to catch them.
-Even if they get caught there’s no evidence. Without evidence nothing will happen.
-As expected from the lawyer in the studio. Right, Phil?
-Yeah, you’re right, Nell.
-If anyone happens to have information on these two.
They showed a picture of the two on the screen, but I didn’t pay attention to it.
-Call +359 98 XXX XXX XXX! Let’s stop them together.
-Where is the world going…
-Leave them alone, son. They won’t be in our town. They’re just panicking people.
I was eating while listening to the news. I didn’t hear anything else interesting. And it’s going to be hot today as it should be for the season.
-Thanks for breakfast, Mom.
I said after I ate thanking mom.
-No need for that son. Now you can go ask about work and good luck.
-I hope I have success.
The time was 10 and I had to leave. I got up and headed to the sink to wash my hands. Once I was ready I opened the door.
-I’m out.
I said and walked out with the newspaper in my hand. I had no idea where I was going to start, but I had to start somewhere. I looked around at the ads and there weren’t any near us, just on the other side of town.
-Well, whatever. I’ll catch the bus.
I headed for the bus stop. I heard noises, but I couldn’t tell where they were coming from. It couldn’t have been anything important.
-Brother, on the news they’re showing us.
-You’re going to give us away. Let’s follow him.
-Yes, sir!
-This isn’t the army, you idiot!
-You didn’t have to hit me that hard, boss.
-Let it be a lesson to you.
I had nothing to do so I decided to get my mp3 player. I took out the headphones and connected them. I sat down at the bus stop.
-That’s another thing. Let’s see. There are a few ads downtown. Let’s start there.
I had a quick good read of the job ads downtown: a waiter in a restaurant, a cook in a fast food chain, and a sales clerk in a store. According to the addresses, I could conclude that I was going to be doing a lot of traveling though downtown wasn’t that big. By the time I got a feel for it a few people came and before long the bus. I got on and paid the driver the fare. I sat down and again reviewed everything to be accurate in my otherwise folded newspaper, but I honestly looked kind of weird to the others. More than usual. It didn’t really matter or the fact that only old people read newspapers.
Achoo.
-All right. I’ll start with the place looking for a waiter.
-Boss, is this one stupid?
-At about your level.
-Is that a compliment?
-No, it’s not.
-I’m smarter than him!
-Because of the nonsense about winning the lottery, how many times have we stolen and we keep losing our stolen money.
-This time things will work out, honest.
-Didn’t you say the same thing last time?
-Then the odds were 80%, now they’re 85.
-And if they pull the same numbers?
-Well… Probably not.
-Let’s hope and follow this one from a distance.
-So be it.
The bus stopped at the bus stop next to the center and I got off. Others got off with me, but almost everything was happening here. I turned off my mp3 player.
-Thanks for the ride.
-There’s no reason, boy.
The driver joked, but even though we didn’t know each other that well we didn’t have a bad relationship. Because of that, he very often charged me as a student even though I had graduated. According to the ad it must be somewhere behind fountain. It wasn’t that far I boldly went ahead.
-Wait, isn’t that Deni?
-Where’s he, Ivelina?
-It might seem like it, but get back to work, Rosa!
-Whatever you say.
Behind the fountain a large establishment was revealed. There was a man in front. He saw me.
-Hello, Mr. customer. What can I help you with?
-Hello. I’m here about the job ad.
-Follow me. I’ll take you to Mr. Shilow.
We walked into the restaurant. It was huge. There was a big bar, TVs, and lots of stuff. There even seemed to be rooms where a group of people could reserve for themselves. Definitely a place for young people like me with the only difference is that I don’t go to places like that. I followed the waiter closely, if I can call him that. We arrived at a door.
-Wait a moment.
I nodded. Then he knocked on the door.
-You may come in.
-Thanks, master.
A bit of an odd greeting, but still. The two of them talked for not a minute.
-You can come in, boy.
And I was called. I didn’t know what to expect, but I was definitely worried.
-There’s nothing to be afraid of.
Then I gathered my courage and entered the room.
-Excuse me for coming in.
-Good morning.
-Good morning.
-I heard you were looking for a job and came across our ad.
-Yes, I did.
-Could say your names.
-Of course. Deni XXXXXXXv XXXXXv.
-Are you from around here?
-Yes.
-Address.
-XXXXX Street and XXXXX Street number 15.
-Phone.
-+359 98 XXX XXX XXX.
-Do you have experience in this field?
-No, but didn’t it say no experience required?
-There’s nothin’. We’ll look at others’ forms and call you back.
-Okay.
-But we don’t have-
-Come this way, Bernard.
-Yes, sir.
-Give him something for free and get him out. He won’t last a day without making mistakes.
-Understood. Let’s go, Mr. Deni.
-All right.
Ugh, that was a scary experience. I don’t know if they’ll take me or not, but at least I tried.
-What do you want?
-What?
-From the restaurant.
-Anything to recommend?
-Are you of drinking age?
-Yes.
-Then I’ll bring you a cocktail of vanilla cola and Aperol. Wait a moment.
I didn’t know what he was talking about, but I nodded. A minute later Bernard came in with a plastic cup and the cocktail inside.
-There you go.
-Thanks.
I took the cocktail.
-You can go now.
It sounded like an order rather than a courtesy, but there was nothing to do here and I left the place accordingly.

Prelude to his first attempt to date since that day

I am no longer a student.
-Super!
But actually things were far from perfect. I didn’t even attend the prom, and when I got my diploma I became a laughing stock in front of everyone. Anyway I had found a purpose in my otherwise aimless life: To find a girlfriend! Sounds original. Or maybe not so much. How would I know that? As I pondered, I decided to get some fresh air.
-Who knows? I might get an idea.
-Who are you talking about, Deni?
-To no one, Mom. I’m going out, can you give me some money to get something?
-Just this once, son. You’re big enough for that now.
-Thanks, Mom. I’ll go now.
-Just don’t slam the door!
I didn’t hear what Mum said and I left quickly.
-A good place? Maybe downtown?
I went to the bus stop and after a short wait the bus came. The driver opened the door.
-Excuse me, does the bus go through downtown?
-Yes, it does.
I get in and sat in the last seat. It was easiest for me to relax there.
-Hey. Pay your fare. Are you asleep?
The conductor sighs.
-I’m awake. How much is the ticket?
-Are you a student?
-What do I look like to you?
-A student ticket is 75 cents.
I dug in my pocket and pulled out some coins. I wasn’t going to change the misunderstanding. I’m still 18 years old. I was born on the seventh of July.
-There you go.
I didn’t pay attention to how much I gave her.
-It’s 87 cents. Here’s 12 cents change.
-Thank you.
She didn’t look old, but she didn’t look young either. Definitely not my type. As I waited for the bus to get downtown I decided to see how I was dressed.
-Oh, no. I’m casually dressed. Whatever. It’s too late now.
I fixed my hair a little. Nevertheless, people kept looking at me strangely. Nothing could be done about it. I had to accept it.
-Next stop downtown. Get ready to get off.
It was time to get off. The bus stopped and many other passengers got off before me. I got off after them too.
-Where do I start?
Downtown features mostly coffee shops, fast food places, a bookstore, a movie theater, a courthouse, a supermarket, a park where couples often walked.
-I’ll go there!
I shouted loudly.
-Is he retarded?
-Leave him alone. It’s for your own good.
-Boys, leave the poor guy.
-You’re too sweet, Mom.
-That it. That’s why Daddy managed to lie to you about his uncle dying when he really wanted to get away from you. You were pregnant with us.
Something mom and her kids were talking about. It didn’t concern me. Full ahead to the park. There’s a fountain there too. Who knows, I might get lucky. After walking for about five minutes I could see it now.
-A bit more.
A few minutes and I was there. Finally.
-Now what?
Then I heard a middle-aged man shouting.
-If you want to start going out with a girl buy this book. There’s nothing impossible!
-Sounds like something that would help me.
-So, the only impossible thing is selling it to someone.
-Who reads books nowadays, old man?
-I bet you never went out with a girl.
The bullies were harassing him. I could see he had a booth where he let his book go on sale. The title was, “How to Get a Girl to go out with you.”
-You kids! How are you not ashamed! Of course I went out with girls!
-In a dating simulator?
-Let’s go, man.
The bullies left, laughing at him.
-I’m selling a book on how to manage to go out with a girl. Without any problems. Just follow what’s written. Whoever takes it in the next 30 minutes will pay half and I’ll sign it for him.
Sounds interesting.
-Hey, man. How much is the book gonna cost?
-Hey loser-young boy. It’s 10 Euros, but I’ll give it to you for 5. You get my signature and here’s some condoms. Not that you’ll ever use them.
-Excuse me?
-Forget the last line I said. Here, I sign the cover.
-Thank you. Here’s 5 Euro.
-Here’s your book and everything and good luck.
-Thank you very much.
-Good luck, my ass. I think I’ll have to find another place to sell it.
The writer of the book seemed very excited that I bought his book. I didn’t understand what he said, though. It sure doesn’t concern me.
-Now, where do I read it? Maybe here in some café? Why not? I might get a chance to experience some of the stuff.
I dug into my pocket and had exactly 2 Euros.
-Where can I find a café with young girls?
I looked here and there and saw a beautiful waitress next to a café.
-So that’s where we’ll go.
-Just don’t let that idiot come to us. Literally no one bought this fake author’s stupid book.
I confidently made my way to the café.
-Oh, no. He’s coming. Boss, can I leave early?
-How many times did you ask for it this month? Are you asking me to fire you?
-But weirdos come here.
-They come because of you, not because you are a good waitress. If you leave now, you better get another job.
-Well…
The cafe wasn’t bad. There was a bar inside and a great view of the fountain outside. I decided to sit outside.
-Mr. Customer, please take the menu.
-Thank you very much.
-If you decide to order, call me. Now I have other customers to serve.
-No, you don’t have, Rosa.
A woman called from the bar.
-I-It doesn’t seem that to be the case. So take your time and order whenever you want. Oh-I’m going to get you a glass of water.
-Thank you very much.
-You are welcome.
The waitress didn’t seem to be enjoying herself. But what could be the reason I didn’t know. Let’s see the menu.
It’s a little expensive, but can I afford something? Fresh fruit juice. Sounds good.
-I hope you’re doing it for him and not just to get away.
-No, there’s no such thing, Ivelina. Sorry, boss.
-Here’s the glass of water. Give it to him.
-All right.
-And smile. You have a charming smile, and the way you are now, even the dead will understand that you don’t want to be near to them.
The waitress sort of nodded, but whatever it was probably didn’t matter. I saw her return with a glass of water.
-There you go your glass of water. Have you decided yet?
-Thank you very much for the water. Do you make juice from fresh nectarines.
-Yes. Would you like some ice cubes?
-Yes, if you can have the ice cubes separately in a container.
-Understood. I’m going back now.
The waitress made her way to the bar. Then I noticed that the TV was on. The channel wasn’t familiar to me, but they were playing good music. It must have been one of those ones you pay extra.
-One nectarine juice and a bunch of ice in a separate container.
-Did I tell you something?
-Yeah, but I can’t prete-
-You have to if you want to work here. Do you know how many girls are envious of you?
-Why didn’t you hire them?
-Because I have an eye for what kind of girls I want to work here.
While they were talking her boss made nectarine juice.
-And what’s so special about me?
-Why don’t you go ask him? Now take his order and don’t you dare think of refusing him. Whatever he asks do not refuse. Unless he asks that of you, then you can.
-And does that include a date?
-You won’t refuse that. You need to pull yourself together and stop being shy.
-Don’t ask me. I hope he won’t ask me.
-I could have sworn I heard that song somewhere.
-Yes, it was a hit and word got around fast, and now here’s your order.
-Thank you very much.
There were a couple of ice cubes in the conteiner, but they were enough. I couldn’t ask for more. Now let me read from the book while I listen to the music. Let’s see. I pulled out the book and opened to the first page.
(Oh no, this guy is really going to read the book.)
-Let’s see.
To have successful dates you need to be prepared. Every girl wants her boyfriend to have money. Possibly a car. It takes money to have a license and a car, and it takes job to earn.
-It makes sense.
-What does it makes sense?
-I was talking to myself.
If you go on a date with a girl and you don’t have money, things won’t work out. Without money the date is doomed to fail, but if you have money everything can go smoothly. Additionally, you can easily make a plan for the date. For example, in the morning invite her for coffee, at noon go to the park for a picnic and eat, in the afternoon go around the park and clothes shops(they love to do that). In the late afternoon watch a movie at the cinema and in the evening have dinner at an expensive restaurant. This plan guarantees you a perfect date and much more, while being penniless things are limited and women expect it’s mainly the men who work and earn the money.
-Is it really?
-Are you asking me?
-Did I really ask out loud?
-Yes. What do you want to know.
-Do you have to have money to go out with a girl?
-To be honest, I don’t know, but I guess so.
But there’s one important thing before that. Find the type of girl you’re looking for. Don’t go asking for perfect or impossible things. Even if the date is perfect you and the girl can remain friends. So you better try to set your requirements, but don’t let too much to limit the possibilities. For example: naturally blonde, blue eyes, smart, athlete’s body, big breasts and as tall as you are would be difficult. If you try for example charming, with beautiful eyes and well shaped body it will be easier.
-Wouldn’t happen with the perfect girl, huh?
-You are reading that guy’s book, aren’t you?
-Yes, it helps me a lot.
-I don’t think so. So you’re really that desperate to go out with a girl?
-Not exactly, but I’m looking for a girlfriend.
-Haven’t you had one yet?
-No, and the girl I asked to prom turned me down and I’m afraid of being rejected again.
-Sure, she was right.
-R-O-S-A.
-Yeah, boss.
-You remember what I told you, didn’t you?
-Yes. Geez, forget what I said. I don’t know you yet.
-Nothing, I know I’m just a loser. It’s not like I’ve decided to be one. It’s just the stupid bullies won’t let me rest.
-Has it been that bad?
-Yeah. Sometimes they’d lock me in the locker, sometimes they’d pull my pants so people can see my boxers. Many times I ran away from them until someone else caught me and held me until the bullies caught up with me.
-I wish I had been there.
-R-O-S-A. Do you want to work without pay this month?
-No. I meant it must have been pretty hard for you, Mr. Customer.
-The name’s Deni. Yeah, it was really hard.
-I’m Rosa. I’m basically seventeen, but I work here anyway. What about you?
-Well, this year was my prom, which would make me eighteen.
-Aren’t you nineteen?
-No, I’ll be turning seven on 7th July. Maybe now’s a good time.
-What for?
-You look superb. How about we go out on a date?
-Well.
-R-O-S-A.
-I wasn’t too direct, was I?
-No, we just barely know each other and I don’t know how to react, but why not?
(Boss will kill me if I refuse.)
-Is it a problem that I’m unemployed?
-No, it’s not. Where are we going?
-Let me think about it. Are you free tomorrow?
-No, I’m not.
-Actually, it is. She’s working without a break and I decided to give her a day off. You don’t mind, do you, Rosa?
-Yes, thank you very much, boss.
-How does 10 o’clock sound around here?
-Well, can’t it be 11?
-All right, just make sure you come.
-I will be there.
Then the conversation ended, I decided to drink my juice and listen to the songs. Meeting a girl, huh? Doesn’t sound bad at all. It wasn’t long before I drank the juice and only the ice cubes remained in the glass. I gave her 2 Euro and left feeling hopeful. Unfortunately, I had to walk home, but I felt like I was floating on clouds. I was in front of us imperceptibly fast. I opened the door.
-Mom, I’m home.
-There’s my boy. Didn’t you hear that I said to not slam the door?
-I didn’t hear it.
-Wait a minute. I sense something. You haven’t found a girlfriend, did you?
-Not exactly, but I asked a girl out.
-Oh, my little cutie. Do you have any cash? An empty pocket will get you nowhere.
-Well, about that…
-I’ll give you some money, but it’s time to seriously look for a job. Even if it’s part-time.
-All right, Mom.
-Just remember not to act like the school bullies or the brats, but like a gentleman.
-Have you ever seen me do such a thing, Mom?
-And I said so until I got drunk for the first time. Since then when I get drunk I can’t control myself and the next day I don’t remember what I did.
-Didn’t you tell me that’s how you got pregnant?
-Yes. So don’t drink alcohol. A little bit only if the girl insists.
-All right, whatever you say.
-Dinner’s served. Eat and get ready, and I’ll iron your clothes for tomorrow.
I nodded and headed for the living room. Kačamak was waiting for me there. Looks like mom decided to do something simple today. It didn’t matter because whatever she was making was damn tasty. I hurriedly ate my portion, got up and washed my plate. Then my teeth in the bathroom. At least twenty times I wondered if it was true before I fell asleep.

Deni’s very first date

I got up and headed for the living room. I hadn’t even dressed. Just in a t-shirt and boxers, but it didn’t matter. That’s where I saw Mom.
-Good morning, Mom!
-Good morning! Today’s a big day. So I decided to make your favorite meal.
-Curried rice?
-Even better.
-I give up.
-Rice cupcakes.
-But Mom, that was when I was little.
-And you’re still a little boy to Mom.
-Mom!
-And another thing, the cupcakes with vanilla cream filling.
-What about something else?
-Don’t insult your mother since I’ve been making them since 6:30.
-Damn. Okay, I’ll eat them.
It wasn’t the ideal breakfast, but better than being on an empty stomach. I picked up a cup and set it on the table. I went to the fridge and open it. I took out the milk and poured some into the cup. Then I put the milk back in the fridge. Mom hadn’t baked cupcakes in a while, but they always go well with cold milk. Divine. Or maybe not, but for old times sake. I remember how the bullies regularly harassed me about them. Back in first grade.
-I see Dencho the girlie boy carrying something in his food box.
-What are you carrying, girlie boy?
-Rice cupcakes with chocolate filling.
-Let’s see them.
-Why?
-Because Yanni said so!
-Why? Now open the box or you’re screwed.
-Teacher! Help me!
-I’m sorry. I’m polishing my nails and texting someone on my phone.
-But, but!
-Later.
Then Yanni took the box from my hands and opened it and split the cupcakes with his three subordinates.
-They’re very tasty, girlie boy.
-They’re not bad.
-So-so.
Since then I learned a valuable lesson: to hide whatever Mom makes, but the bullies kept finding the lunchbox.
Damn them. That was stealing. I was left hungry many days at school. That’s life, everyоне would say, but the truth was one: they went unpunished. No one cared, and those who saw it pretended they saw nothing.
-Tasty as ever, Mom.
-Thank you. Once you’ve had a nice meal and you’re ready the date will go smoothly.
-I wish it were that easy.
-Dates aren’t that big a deal.
-For you.
-It’s important to show the lady who you are, and you may not be a model from a magazine for handsome men, but you’re not like the guys who harassed you either.
-Mom!
-It’s important to have confidence in yourself. Now, eat and get ready.
I nodded and continued to eat the cupcakes and drink the cold milk.
-Reminds me of my childhood. Wait a minute, now didn’t I just remind myself of it?
-You used to have them taken away from you.
-Did I say it out loud?
-No, but I think I know what you’re talking about.
I ate and got up with the cup and saucer.
-Let me wash them.
-Leave it to Mom, darling. You go take a shower and change.
-You say it like I smell. I forgot to take a shower yesterday.
-For girls, it matters. Also wear good perfume.
-But you always give me women’s because they’re on sale.
-I think there was a men’s perfume somewhere. Yeah. I’ll find it after I wash the dishes.
-Well, I hope so, because I’ve been laughed at more than once for smelling like women’s perfume.
-But it was fun, wasn’t it?
-Just you and the bullies.
-What are you waiting for?
Mom pushed me out of the living room and I headed for my room.
-Clothes. Taken off. Towel. Around the waist. Slippers. On the feet. Well, let’s go.
I opened the door from my room and nearly killed myself. I don’t remember drinking alcohol recently unless Mom put some in the cupcakes. Step by step I walked down to the bathroom. It wasn’t much: shower and toilet.
I opened the shelf with my stuff in the bathroom. There was the shampoo and shower gel. In the mirror, I saw a little beard starting to grow.
-This needs to be taken care of.
Unfortunately I had neither a razor nor foam.
-Now what? I know. I’ll use mom’s foam and the razor. She won’t notice
-Achoo. Surely someone’s talking about me. Or maybe not.
I opened Mom’s shelf and there was all sorts of stuff in there… Сhampoos, shower gels and tons of stuff I don’t know a thing. And there it was. Shaving foam and next to it a razor.
-Exactly what I was looking for. I just hope Mom didn’t use it down there.
-Achoo. I’ll make it a habit if it keeps up. I know I’m popular with men, but not that much.
On the side of the foam it said:
-“Shake vigorously before using it.”
I shook it, I didn’t shake it there until I nearly drop it off.
-That’s all it should take. Let’s see what it says. “Then apply it to the surface you’re going to shave.”
And without reading it I knew. I put the foam into one of my hands and applied to my face. I closed my eyes and prayed that I wouldn’t “cut myself” with the razor. That was all that was left. I opened my eyes and looked in the mirror. I stared at myself for probaly a minute and decided to act. Although hesitant I decided to act. I picked up the razor and swung gently. It wasn’t hard, but my beard soon disappeared and maybe it wasn’t hard. Or Mom’s razor was nice. I use it all over the face then I washed and touched myself. It was as smooth as a newborn baby’s.
-It’s time to take a shower. But before that I had to put Mom’s things back on.
So I did. I replaced the foam and razor with the shampoo and shower gel and got in the shower. There was a blue sponge waiting for me on the shelf.
-Come on!
I turned on the shower and began to bathe. Not many knew, but I was using a special shampoo to keep my hair strong.
I stepped out of the shower with a robe around my waist.
-It was nice. Now it was time to wipe myself off and-
-Don’t forget to brush your teeth.
Mom called from the bedroom.
-I totally forgot.
I went back to brush my teeth. While I was brushing them my towel fell off and I had to put it back on.
-And that’s done.
-Then go to your room to wipe yourself and get dressed.
-I’ll do that, Mom.
I got to my room. I opened the door and walked in for a split second and closed it. How I did it I had no idea, but that’s what happened. I grabbed a towel and started wiping my hair because it was the most time consuming.
Unlike the hair, my body was almost dry. I could feel dampness here and there.. Since I had a big ponytail it took a while to dry, but there you go. I had another hour. The body was an easy job in comparison.
-Let’s see what mom has ironed. For God’s sake, not that….
With those clothes on I would look like one of those crappy actors in the movies Mom watches. Just to mention that only old people watch them. I knew right then that things weren’t going to work out.
-What will be shall be. There’s no going back. Only moving forward.
-Just like that, son.
-Yes…
Sometimes I feel like she does it on purpose just to amuse herself. What mattered now was getting dressed up and pretending I didn’t look like someone from the ’80s. Difficult, but not impossible. I got dressed. Now all I have to do is put on gel and fix my hair.
-Time for the special gel.
Yeah, that’s right. I used a special gel, not something cheap. Unlike the others, it held my hair all day. I put some on my hand and applied to my hair. That was the beginning. Now I quickly had to fix a cool haircut. Hair in spikes. I’m hella sexy, I know it. Did the towering spikes and by here I’m done. Now all that’s left is the ponytail. I also applied hair gel there to keep it from moving and started to gather it. I put on the elastic band and combed it.
-I’m either really cool or maybe not. Even if I look like an idiot at least my hair is in style.
I looked for perfume, but then I remembered that mom promised to get me a manly one.
-Mom, did you find the perfume?
-Yes, dear. I’m coming now. Don’t forget to use your roll-on.
-Oh yes, I almost forgot.
I used the roll-on on my armpits. I doesn’t want to sweat under my armpits and drive the girl away. It’s hard being a cavalier and a gentleman. Am I a combination of both? Or did they mean the same thing? I’ll look it up on the internet sometime. I didn’t have time for that right now.
-Knock-knock.
-Just come in and give me the perfume, Mom.
-Okay.
She walked in and what to see. Men’s perfume from the ’50s. It just blew me away. It was better than a woman’s.
-Thanks, Mom.
-No reason. My first boyfriend wore this. He was 12.
-How come is in your possesion?
-Don’t you know?
-What to know?
-I like wearing men’s perfume.
-Have you been lying to me all this time?
-Come on now, the details don’t matter. Just spray yourself and go. You have 10 minutes and you’ll be late for the bus.
I listened to her. At this point, whatever happens will just happen. At least I learned one truth today. Don’t trust Mom for everything. Maybe my whole life has been just a game to her…
Thoughts like that had to get out of my head. I was ready and sprayed myself thoroughly with perfume like mom wanted. Surely from half a mile away you would smell it.
-Mom, I’m going to leave.
-Wait a minute, I haven’t given you any money yet.
-Yes, it’s true.
-Here. Have fun and have a blast. I know you can do it!
I got the money from Mom. It was a lot. One 100 Euro bill. I was of course like a soldier deep in enemy territory with no connection to headquarters or the commander-in-chief. I was alone. I got to the front door of the house.
-Now to put on my favorite shoes.
-The others, my son.
-Why?
-For good luck.
Will you leave me alone? I didn’t know the answer, but I knew it was a hundred percent certain it wouldn’t be the only time. In many wars those who lead the battles are put in situations where you just have to rely on the
your instincts. This, though it was on a different battlefield was a similar situation. Unlike others who had experience I didn’t have any. If the others were going to make fun of me from the morning there was no point in getting on the bus. Even without it I had the time and it was good to stretch myself and muster my courage.
-Hello, sweetie!
-If only I were younger!
-You’re very stylish!
-Can you give me a ride downtown, young man?
-We’ve got a cool gentleman here, girls!
An unforeseen thing. Often the old women, who also watch Mother’s stupid movies, gather at Aunt Pepa’s. She wasn’t related to me, but I called her Auntie from a young age. When I asked her the name.
-It doesn’t matter, call me Pepa.
I thought it was a nickname, but I had never heard anyone else call her by her real name unless it was really Pepa. There was nothing to think of it. I hadn’t walked half a mile yet, and already I looked like an idiot,
I had positive comments from the old ladies that served as the spark the bullies needed to not leave alone.
-Just like that, old lady killer!
-Clothes like that don’t sell anywhere.
-The poor women, trying not to make fun of the beater.
Sometimes I wish instead of just stealing my mom’s cupcakes to let her boss them around. I bet they wouldn’t last even two days.
-Couldn’t it get any worse?
Let’s not grab the devil by the tail. I’ll just move on, and the taunts from the hooligans increased as I passed through the hooligans’ quarters. At least they weren’t beating me or doing anything else.
-Did they feel sorry for me, too?
Maybe not that. They just knew what was going on and the end result. Now it was just the appetizer. The main dish would have been being the rejection. For dessert it would have been the mocking afterwards.
-I shouldn’t think like that.
Exactly. Today could be the day I go out with a girl and her becoming my girlfriend. Let me be positive and leave the others aside. Ignoring the others I made it to the coffee shop where she worked.
There was still five minutes before 11 AM, but better to be early than late.
-I look at him! The boy has a thing for retro clothing.
-I wish I’d said no. I’m already regret.
-And now you can.
-But I need the money to go to college.
-Well, go out and try to be nice. Also compliment him on his outfit. Anyways, you won’t see anyone else dress like that.
-Do I have to?
-Yeah, and don’t use Halloween for the compliment.
-I hate you, Ivelina.
-I love you, too. Now go. The boy is nervous and waiting for you. Give it your all.
I saw the barmaid talking to someone and winking. She must be talking to a customer to get a tip. It was normal in these parts. In fact, where was Rosa? Suddenly I turned around and I saw her. Yes, she was wearing normal clothes for going out, and I was in some clothes that stood out, and in a bad way. I sighed.
-Hello, Rosa.
I had to take the first step. A little unsure, but what to do? It was because of a certain mother that I was in this position.
-Achoo. Someone’s thinking about me. Come on, guys!
Wink.
-Hello, Deni. I didn’t know that kind of thing thrilled you. You look great.
-Actually, not exactly. Mom made me wear these lost clothes. More like forced, because those are the only ones she ironed.
-You live with your mother?
-Well, yeah. You may tease me, but I don’t even work and there’s no way I can rent a place.
-You still have to try to get your mother to listen to you or iron your own clothes.
-Actually I can’t and once when I tried I nearly set the house on fire. I had to go to the toilet in a dire need and forgot the iron.
-Did you have a fire?
-There would have been if mother hadn’t seen me go into the toilet. Since then she forbid me to touch the iron.
-Sounds funny.
-It wasn’t, really. You, on the other hand, look like a magazine model.
-Stop with the flattery.
-No, I’m not kidding. I may be a complete idiot, but you definitely have the looks of a model.
(Way to go, boy, even if you don’t mean it. Just watch her reaction.)
-You’ve been joking with me for a while. I’m not that pretty.
On some instinct I dodged and it saved me from a hit.
-Slightly, you almost hit me.
-Nobody had been able to avoid it until now.
-What?
-My punch. When I’m embarrassed, I resort a bit to violence.
-And I thought you were perfect. Like a red rose without thorns.
A red beep alerted me and I opened the coffee door to protect myself from whats to come.
(Maybe Rosa will get lucky with that boy. Wait, I’m not much bigger than him. Anyway, good luck to you both.)
-Don’t go exaggerating. You can find a girl like me anywhere.
-That’s not true. Not every pretty girl like you would even look at me, let alone talk to me.
-And I haven’t met a boy who hasn’t run away in fear by now. They were afraid of me.
I wanted to say: “Come on let’s hold hands and let the date begin”, but I couldn’t, I just hold her hand.
-Hey.
I left without thinking trying not to walk fast. I couldn’t deny how beautiful Rosa was. She had blue eyes and blonde hair. She was like a mermaid to sailors. Her clothes also added to her natural beauty. She wore a red leather dress. It perfectly described her curves and especially her breasts. I was happy that she had paid attention to me at all. Instead of hitting me I could see how she had blushed. Maybe even redder than her lipstick.
-I’m not kidding if it looks like that. I’m not like that.
-I trust you already. I just hope you’re not one of the flatterers who’s only after my body.
-Your body?
-You don’t know? They’re just looking to do it with you and then just dump you.
-Mom didn’t mention anything about that.
-You’re obviously not one of them. Come closer.
She moved a little closer our shoulders almost touching.
-Maybe it вилл бе a good date and you’re not a loser.
-But actually И am.
-No, you’re not. If you were, you wouldn’t be on a date with a beautiful girl like me.
Rosa winked at me. It seemed this date was a first for both of us. Step by step we were gaining experience.
-But I’m just lucky. You’re so beautiful and I’m a loser.
-Now stop. You don’t need to talk about yourself like that. Even if you’re a circus clown, at least you can make a woman have confidence in herself.
-But I-
-You’re not like that. It’s just the way you think.
She wrapped her hands around my arm.
-Come with me now. I know a good place not far from here.
I followed her. Did I have a choice? I didn’t know what to do myself. I panicked. It must have been the same with her. She seemed to have more courage than me. We walked through a strange street. There were no people there, and
that’s rare downtown.
-We’ve arrived, Deni.
-This? Isn’t this the place-
-Yeah, the place where they all talk bollocks. Let’s go in.
Rosa opened the door and she walked into a fast food place. It had mostly Japanese stuff as people called it the spoiled noodles or the fake ramen. I personally wasn’t familiar how it all began, but even
I knew about what was being talked about. The stuff was claimed to be so bad that people started to joke about inviting your foes to eat here.
-Well, are you going in or not?
-Ah, sorry.
I was carried away and it seems she was the only one who got in.
-Irasshai.
-Kon’nichiwa, sensei.
-What did you say. That’s the custom here. And remember. Before you eat, say “itadakimasu.”
-I-ta-whatever.
-It’s not like that, You’ll respect the owner of the place before you eat. It’s delicious and cheap here.
I almost snapped and said I’d eaten, but I had no idea what was coming next. Let’s just go with the flow.
-Good. Just say it a bit slower because I didn’t hear what you said.
-No problem. Give me the menu right now, sensei.
-I’ll see you. You’re with a boy. Are you on a date?
-It doesn’t matter. Just give it. Can’t you see I’m trying to get you a new client.
Rosa blushed, but managed to finish what she said without a problem.
-‘All right then, here’s the menu. When you’re ready just call.
-Good. Deni, most things here are in Japanese, but I can tell you what’s good from here, but let’s sit down first. How about by the window?
-Why not, it looks good.
I sat down and regretted saying it. As I sat down I felt the volume of the music increase and what language it was I don’t even know,
-What are you surprised at? Japanese music is being played here.
-Seriously?
-Besides, do you see that door?
-Which one? Oh, I saw it.
-There’s karaoke. Sometimes, besides eating, people come to chill and sing.
-Yeah.
I didn’t know if I was disappointed or just didn’t know what to say, but Rosa was enthusiastic for once. I had to figure out where to go next, but now let me see the menu. I saw almost everything for the first time: ramen, onigiri, takoyaki, shirayaki, yakisoba, sushi, dango. Lots of unfamiliar things.
-How hungry are you?
-Well, I don’t know.
-What do you know then?
-We’re on a date.
-Quiet! I’ll order.
I nodded.
-Sensei, I’d like a ramen split it into two smaller bowls. Put a couple of takoyaki, shiroyaki and dango on a separate plate.
-At once.
-What did you order?
-You’ll find out. Now let’s start talking while the food is prepared and served. I don’t know much about you, but can you tell me anyway?
-Yes, though I’m not proud of it. As you can see, I easily give in to other people’s opinions. In my school life I was bullied all the time.
-I’ve figured that out already,
-I had no time for girls.
-And that too.
-Will you wait for me to finish?
-Oh, sorry. It’s a habit.
-Last year before I graduated, while running from bullies, I caught a glimpse of a girl. She was a 9th grader. It was just curiosity at first, but it ended up being more than that. You don’t have to be an expert to know that I started to like her over time, but only as I was running from the bullies could I see her. The other times something kept going wrong. A week before the ball I gathered courage and decided to ask her to go to the prom, but alas I was cut off. That’s the way it goes for me.
-It’s not as bad as I thought.
-And I’ve been determined to get a girlfriend ever since.
-Yeah.
-The only way I’m gonna do that is by getting up the courage and going out girls until I find the one. The perferct girl. Sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it?
-Oh, it does, but you’ve decided not to leave things to chance. But doesn’t that mean you’ll be going out with lots of girls before that?
-Yeah, I guess it would.
-And you’re pretty sure you won’t take advantage of that.
-Of what?
-Anyway, you don’t seem to be thinking with that thing downstairs. For now.
-Why don’t you tell us about yourself?
-All right. I have blond hair and blue eyes.
-What about that?
-And I’m blond down there.
-Well, what are you talking about?
-I was born blonde with blue eyes.
Rosa shouted.
-You didn’t dye your hair, did you?
-Eureka. So like I said, because I have natural blonde hair everyone thinks I’m a slut.
-What do you mean slut?
-You’ve either lived a sheltered life or you’ve only been taught good manners and so on.
-Only my mom looks at me and doesn’t mention a lot of things.
-Well, in a nutshell, it’s like I’m a woman who has sex for money. Easy woman.
-Mom said to sympathize with women like that, but not to tie myself to their games.
-What’s that got to do with anything?
-Did I say that out loud?
She nodded.
-It all started at the beginning of 7th grade. You may not know, but girls go through puberty earlier. With that, certain body parts grow. It gave a reflection of that that I could notice how boys look at me, or more specifically, at my chest. I didn’t know how to deal with that. There had been mild teasing before, but nothing serious and it was natural not to know what to do. I was trying to avoid boys, and my girl friends started pulling away from me. Later I heard a rumor that they were saying all sorts of nasty things behind my back. Can you imagine that?
Rosa looked at me like she was expecting something, but I didn’t know what either.
-Would you say something?
-Well, I don’t really have any friends and I don’t know what to say.
-Was that so?
-Yeah, it’s hard to have friends when you’re the main target of bullies.
-One of the things totally crashed me.
She looked at me again.
-Don’t you care?
-Well, I don’t know.
-You have to understand that girls are looking for a guy who has self-confidence and not a guy to get his words out.
-But it’s the first time I’ve talked to a girl for so long. I decided to let you finish without interrupting.
-So be it. They said I’ve been showing my chest to boys. Not just from our class, but in general. Truth was, I was wondering how to get rid of those scumbag perverts. They kept trying to touch my private parts. One day they had me cornered and there was no way to get away, but luckily for me some boy was running away from the bullies. My rapists were called out to help and that’s how I got away. I never found out his name, but I have to thank him.
-What elementary school did you go to?
-Oscar Night.
-I went there too.
-Is it possible that was you back then?
-More than possible. I remember one day the bullies were called before the headmistress. One had taken a video of them chasing me and beating me. They chased me because they thought it was my idea.
-I understand. Thank you very much.
It was the second time I saw Rosa smile.
-Why, I didn’t do anything. It’s something normal for me.
-Our school also had a high school and the boys still didn’t leave me but a lot of them went to study elsewhere and the others didn’t feel like doing the same or at least outdoors. I could deal with that, but this
made me stay away from the boys.
-Didn’t you move to study elsewhere?
-Yes, I went to art school. Next year I’ll graduate and start college at the same.
-Do you really like it?
-You won’t know until you try. I don’t really feel like studying so I took advantage of that and got into art.
-Yeah. It wasn’t good either.
-Are you good at anything?
-Good question. Probably not.
-Here. Enjoy.
The owner came and brought what we ordered while we were talking. I’m sure Rosa would have said something about me again.
-Let’s eat while it’s warm!
-Good.
I reached my hand to the bowl of whatever was there. Rosa stopped me, though.
-We’ll pray first before we eat.
-Ah, yes, she said something like that.
-Do you even remember what I told you 5 minutes ago?
-About your breasts?
-Before that.
She said it angry and I started thinking. The light bulb went off.
-I-ta something?
-Yes. Now she repeated after me.
I nodded.
-I-ta-da-ki-masu.
-I-ta-da-ki-masu.
-Is it that hard?
-What about ананас(pineapple)?
-Did you even hear me?
-Or is this about нас(us)?
-IT’S SAID BEFORE THE MEAL!
I think I pissed her off, but I honestly didn’t know what she was talking about,
-We could do without the праз(leek).
-Are you serious?
Rosa sighed and continued.
-Anyway. By the time we’re done talking the food will be cold.
-Do I detect a quarrel between lovers?
-Sensei, do you want me to go at you as well?
-Pretend you didn’t hear what I said.
He seems to have had his fill of her before, or witnessed it and knows when to quit.
-How do you eat that with those sticks?
-They’re called chopsticks. Haven’t you eaten spaghetti?
-I have, but at home we eat them with forks.
-Well, there are no forks here. It’s time you learned to eat with chopsticks.
-But I can’t!
-You learn all your life. Now pull yourself together.
I sighed and resigned myself to the fact that whatever I did wouldn’t help. Fate loves the brave. I’ll expose myself if I have to, but I won’t give in. Onward, Deni!
-Did you just start talking to yourself again?
-No comment.
-Then let’s start eating.
I got the chopsticks.
-Let me show you how to hold them.
After 2-3 minutes, I understood how to eat with chopsticks. It wasn’t as hard as it looked.
-It was easy.
-Did you see? In the end, when there’s only liquid left, you swallow it in one gulp.
-Is that necessary?
-It’s a tradition.
It’s tasty, that бавен(slow thing), or whatever its name was. I reached for the bowl of ядки(nuts). And they weren’t bad. I just couldn’t figure out where the nuts were, but they must have been crushed from a secret recipe and toasted. When I got home I’ll ask Mom.
-Do you want sake?
-Sensei, give us some water. The boy next to me is like a drunkard without drinking. Do you want it to get worse?
-All right then. I’ll get you a glass of water right now.
I ate it all and left it for Rosa of course. She ate slowly unlike me. It wasn’t cultural to talk while we ate so I waited and thought about where to take her in the afternoon. The park near the sea. It wasn’t far from here. We could create good memories there. While I was thinking about that I saw a couple coming out of the karaoke. They seemed to have sung their hearts out and were now going to have a bite to eat. Rosa hadn’t finished yet.
-Where’s the toilet?
-Down the hall.
-Good.
I thought I’d do my job. I was unlikely to find a good place to do it in the park, and I didn’t want to look like someone with no culture. Not to mention I drank the water while waiting for Rosa. Definitely a lot of liquids. I had to get rid of at least some of it. I was about to head out after finishing my job and remembered. Mom said to wash my hands well before I left the bathroom. Even more so if it was in a public place.
I went back in and washed my hands thoroughly. I could come out of the toilet now.
-Are you ready to go outside?
-Are you okay, Rosa?
-Yes.
-Excuse me, how much is the bill?
– 10 Euros.
It wasn’t as much as I expected.
-Come on, I’ll pay
-But I invited you, Rosa.
I gave 10 Euros and some coins to the owner and Rosa and I went out.
-You’re out of a job and you’re showing off like you’re paying and leaving a tip, huh?
-What are you talking about?
-It doesn’t matter. Where are we going?
-What about the park on the beach? It’s thirty minutes from here.
-Okay. I’m gonna feel the strong summer breeze blow me away.
We didn’t say a word to each other until we got there. We were both trying not to look each other in the eye. We must have looked strange through other people’s eyes, and there were a lot of them. Really a lot. Once we got to the park
Rosa pulled out her phone.
-‘Are you going to take a pictures of me?
-Why?
-Just do it.
-Okay.
Rosa kept standing in different poses and places and I took pictures of her. I personally didn’t understand the point, but it was important to her. Time flew by without us noticing, and I had to figure out where to end the date.
-Come on, take my picture, Deni!
I kept taking pictures of her. She seemed to enjoy having her pictures taken. In the distance I spotted a ship. As we got a little closer I saw it was a restaurant.
-Have you been here, Deni?
-No, have you, Rosa?
-And I haven’t. Why don’t we go in?
It was far from ideal, but I could tell that things went well today. Well, how up or down was another matter.
-Good evening, would you like a table for two?
-Yes, if you like.
I answered before I let Rosa do it for me. Everything had its limits.
-Follow me.
We followed the waiter. We walked for a bit and ended up at a table overlooking the sea.
-Do you like this table?
-Yes, thank you very much.
-I’m glad you like it. I’ll give you the menu now.
-Thank you very much.
-Thank you.
We both thanked you.
-What do you think?
-For what?
-Doesn’t it look like an expensive place to you?
-Probably, but there must be something special?
-Do you hear the music?
-What are you talking about, Rosa?
I honestly had no idea what she was talking about. I listened and I think I heard live music. The waiter left the menus.
-When you’re ready to order raise your hand and I’ll be right over. Have a pleasant stay.
We both opened the menu.
-Rosa.
-Yes, Denny?
-Can I order now?
-Why?
-Well, you ordered for lunch, now you leave it to me.
-Okay.
Without looking at the menu, I raised my hand.
-Yes, what would you like?
-I’d like fries and seafood salad.
-Okay. And something to drink?
-I want a Coke.
-Coke.
Rosa and I said together.
-All right, two Cokes. After 10-15 minutes we’ll be ready. Until then, have patience and enjoy the live music.
With that, the waiter left. I really disliked folk music, but the same didn’t seem to apply to Rosa.
-Let’s play, Deni.
-But I don’t-
She literally wouldn’t let me finish.
-Follow me. It’s not that hard.
-What you say.
I stood up and began to follow her, carefully stepping so as not to step on her without meaning to.
-You’re not that bad. It’ll work out.
-What?
-Are you just going to ask questions all day? I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.
I was ready to ask her again, but I wasn’t going to get an answer. Anyway. I was just careful as I danced with her waiting for the waiter to finally come. I prayed it would be soon, but he was at the very least delayed another 10 minutes and I had logically become more or less sour. It wasn’t his fault, but still. It was a good thing I paid attention at all that he had put it on because Rosa had no intention of stopping to dance.
-The waiter served. Let’s eat, Rosa?
-I was starving from all that dancing.
We both made it to our table. I seasoned the salad with olive oil, lemon juice and so on. Then I stirred. Rosa ate faster this tme than she did at lunch. I didn’t know if the girls ate fast or slowly. Maybe it depended on the occasion. While we ate we looked at each other instead of talking. I could feel a feeling I thought I would only experience once. Maybe it would have worked. The music went on without stopping, and we eventually finished eating.
-Deni, I have to tell you something.
In my head, I thought of that phrase. There was this expression in a book about expressions of being rejected. With it, women are trying to prepare a man for the harsh truth.
-Going to the bathroom. Can you say it later?
-Okay.
I raised my hand and the same waiter came over.
-What would you like?
-Where’s the toilet?
-Follow me.
I followed the waiter. Once Rosa was a distance away I gathered my courage and asked the waiter.
-Can I have the bill?
-Of course. One moment.
The waiter went to get it.
-Here.
-30 euros? Whatever. Here’s 30 euros.
-Thank you.
-Now where’s the toilet? Hey, that room in the back. Just be careful that the women’s and men’s toilets are next to each other.
-Thank you very much.
I didn’t want another girl to reject me. That’s why I had to get out. I couldn’t leave the entrance because Rosa would see me, so I’d use the window in the toilet, which was up to ground level. Even if it wasn’t I’d still be fine. As I walked quickly I bumped and fell.
-Excuse me.
-I’m so sorry.
I saw I bumped into someone. A girl. Her clothes were weird. Like those of noble birth.
-Where are you touching me!
Then I noticed that I was holding her breast with one hand.
-Sorry, but just don’t yell!
-Are you touching me there and now trying to get away?
-No, it’s not like that.
-Take responsibility!
-How?
-Get out with me.
-But I don’t have any money.
-It doesn’t matter. In two weeks, here at noon. If you don’t come, I’ll tell Dad about it, and you won’t want to know what happens to you.
I had no choice but to nod and accept my fate. To a complete stranger and not so bad looking girl I accepted to go out.
-Till then.
-Till then.
I walked into the restroom. I had to remember otherwise i would be dead. I went into the bathroom, opened the window and escaped through it. I got home earlier than expected. I didn’t even finish my Coke…
-How did the date go?
-Okay, but in the end things didn’t work out I’m going to bed.
-Poor soul. Nothing. At least you tried.

First Job/ Prologue to next arc!

I don’t remember how I fell asleep or much at all, but it must have been for the best. Yesterday was just a battle, but I will definitely win the war!
-Forward!
With a loud battle cry and a high raised fist, I got out of bed. I looked at the clock. The time was 10 o’clock. Apparently I got a little extra sleep, but that must be due to the events of yesterday.
-It doesn’t matter. I’ll learn my lessons and be even better next time.
-Good morning, son. Who are you talking to?
-No one.
-Breakfast is ready. Come eat.
-All right.
The normal procedure went. I could see black dots around my pupils. I had cried myself while I slept. Best not to think. I washed my eyes once more and went into the living room.
-Well, what are you going to do?
-Well, I don’t know. Something to suggest, Mom?
-Let’s see… You’re a big and responsible man now. You have to have a job to be able to feed yourself and go on dates with girls.
-Well, Mommy you always- –
Mom interrupted me.
-I will always help you, but you have to work and earn money.
-Okay, Mom.
-Did you have any money left from yesterday?
-Yes, 50 euros.
-I’m not going to take it back, but you really need to get a job.
-How?
-Buy a newspaper with that money.
-But people use devices to read newspapers.
-It’s better for you to get a newspaper.
-But these things are out of your time, Mom.
-Now go buy a newspaper. We’ll look at the job ads together.
I sighed and nodded. I just couldn’t help but listen to Mom. Everything was set on the table. Vegetable salad and a few boiled eggs.
-Tasty.
-Well, now that you’re sitting at the table eat your food and when you’re ready and I mean ready and have washed your hands and face go buy a newspaper with job ads.
I didn’t even think about it, but nodded on instinct. Besides, there was airan to drink. Just great. I ate the yummy stuff, but I knew part of me was gone. Just like after I was rejected by Sylvia. How many shards of me were there? That I didn’t know. After I ate I did what mom said. Not that I usually didn’t, but there was a case of forgetting. I headed in and got to the door to get out.
-Okay mom, I’m going out to buy a newspaper with job ads and I’ll be back.
-No need to tell me that. Just go.
-Then what am I waiting for?
I opened the door and walked out. Once I was completely out I felt like something had changed. Like it wasn’t the same. But what was it? I didn’t know, and I probably had no way of knowing. I walked for a while without direction and then I saw two people talking in the distance.
-We need someone cowardly to play him to work for us for free.
-That’s it, Yanni.
-The question is, where will we find such a specimen, Borko?
-I have no idea, man. If we could only find him, we’d trick him.
-Ah, the one with the cardboard box and that we’re going to get the money and come back?
-Yeah, that one?
-It’s my favorite.
I approached them and decided to ask.
-I’m very sorry, but do you know where the newspaper booth was?
-Maybe, but what are you looking for, young man?
-Well, a newspaper with job ads.
-Yeah. Well, there was one, was it not?
-Two blocks from here on the left.
-Thank you very much.
I headed in the direction they pointed.
-This one’s perfect for the job.
-Do you have any doubts about it?
-Hahaha.
-Hahahahahaha.
I could hear the two of them laughing. I moved on and could possibly see the booth. A few more meters and… there I am.
-Excuse me, would I like to buy a newspaper with job ads?
-Which one?
-I don’t know.
-I’m kidding. It’s the only newspaper with job ads. There’s a picture of a beautiful woman in the middle.
-Anyway, how much does it cost?
-1 euro and 50 cents.
-All right, I’ll take it.
I handed over the smallest banknote I had, which was 5 euros.
-Here’s the newspaper and 3 and 50 change.
I headed home, The people who were talking were gone. They seemed to have left. I continued my way home and arrived. I opened the door.
-Mom, I’m home.
-Well, welcome, now let’s go look at the job ads in the living room, but first let me put on my glasses.
Then we both looked, or rather she looked at the ads and judged what was good for me. When she got to the middle she saw the poster of a naked woman I didn’t know about. Or maybe I did know. The seller mentioned something about a woman, but I doubt Mom would understand.
-You naughty boy.
-Mom, it’s not what you think, is it?
-Well, what is it then?
-Well, I didn’t know.
-If you knew it was there, would you have hidden the page?
-I wouldn’t have bought it if I’d known.
-You, you have a very strong libido.
-Mom.
-There’s nothing to hide, it’s normal for a boy your age. Let me tell you whatever you want to know. Show me what interests you on the poster and I’ll explain everything. Don’t be shy.
-Mom, don’t you think we’re straying from what we should be doing?
-Oh, yeah, sorry. We’ll do it another time.
I sighed and left her looking at the ads on the second half of the paper.
-We’re ready. Tomorrow you’ll go to the places marked and ask for jobs.
-But can’t I just call?
-First impressions are important!
-Okay, I’ll go tomorrow.
-Atta boy.
After that was over I saw the time and it was time to watch TV. They were showing a programme about how to make halloumi. Then an action series started about Golgo 13. It was my favorite. It was adapted from the one-name manga and nothing is left out. Dinner time came, and only then did I realize I hadn’t had lunch, but it was dinner time. Mom had cooked chicken and rice in the oven that afternoon. Super with the rest of the airan. Another favorite meal of mine. We ate quietly and peacefully while listening to the news. After I finished I went to wash my dishes and fork. Then I washed my hands, teeth and was ready for bed. Tomorrow was going to be a big day. I fell asleep with that thought.

Same day, Rosa (extra)

What happened I don’t know. Everything was going well and suddenly.
-No, I’m not going to cry again!
Although I was disappointed it’s not like I was expecting anything. Or was I? I’m starting to contradict myself. Did I really think it was going to happen? Tears are pouring out of me. I haven’t been able to hold back since I got home. Is today going to be the same? I couldn’t tell,
but I had to pull myself together.
-One, two. Get up, Rosa!
I got up with a loud yell. Whether he reject didn’t matter. Not anymore. It’s over. Now is the future and I can probably find someone else decent to go out with. The time was 9:10
-Oh, no. I have to hurry or Ivelina would have had me!
Every day she wanted me at work at 9:45. The faster one would give it. Less makeup and perfume. I’ll pick something up on the way. With that idea, I stripped, grabbed a towel and took a shower. Then I brushed my teeth. When I got back to my room I saw my used underwear,
which was black. I was prepared. Anyway, I hastily wiped my body and hair. I didn’t have time for my hair and used the hair dryer. I hurriedly put on my regular underwear. Only ironed I had a short blouse and short jeans but before that I put on tights. I didn’t have much time left. I hastily stood in front of the mirror and put on some makeup. I perfumed myself. I fixed my hair with a comb, tied it up with a ribbon and with a bang I headed out of the house and went to work.
-Oops, almost forgot my bag.
I went back to my room to get it.
-Everything should be fine now.
Everything was perfect this time. I laced up my shoes, opened the door and locked up after me. Mom would be fine later. Now to hurry and catch the bus unless I wanted to walk. I wish they’d do something about it with the strange smell on the buses, but it was too much to expect. I don’t know if the drivers had the time or the inclination, but at least they could have put an air freshener inside. On the other hand, people shouldn’t come in and smell like pig out of the pen or make garbage and so on. Maybe it was both sides’ fault.
-What am I doing? I almost sound like Deni!
I stopped thinking about it and found myself at the bus stop. I just hoped I hadn’t missed it, but I saw my neighbors sitting down and they were waiting.
-Hello, Louise.
-Greetings, little girl.
-I’m big now!
-You’re all the same to me.
-And you keep talking to me like you’re my mother. Hello to you too, Ralitsa.
-Hello. I see your day is starting in an exciting way.
-I wouldn’t call it exciting.
-Ah, here comes the bus.
-Stop avoiding the subject…
Then the bus came and we got on. All three of us had annual bus passes. We sat in the back seats because there were peasants in the front who hadn’t looked in the mirror in years, to say the least. They even smelled bad. I guess no matter where you are, there will always be those. You just can’t have it anywhere else, plus you don’t know what they can do to you.
-Let’s sit here.
-Good idea, Louise.
-Right, Ralitsa?
-Then let’s sit here.
I was still thinking, and it was already decided where we would sit. I sat with them in the middle of the bus.
-What are you girls going to do today?
-Don’t call me that, you’re only a few years older than me, Louise.
-Well, okay. Excuse me.
-Did you start it again?
Silence.
-I’m gonna go get some clothes for my little boy downtown, what about you?
-I don’t know either, Ralitsa, but I’ll probably shop at the mall. We’ll probably go together.
-Still ignore me, Louise and Ralitza.
-That’s what I’ve been calling energetic girl since this morning. Let me guess, you’re going to work again.
-Yes. But that’s not the point.
-Question?
-What’s she talking about, Louise?
-You two have been harassing me!
-Next stop center. Please prepare to disembark.
-Come on, let’s get ready.
-Good idea.
-I’ll get it back to you one day, just watch!
-She’s better now.
-Definitely, Louise. She’s so easy to read.
The bus stopped at the bus stop and we got off.
-Come on, bye.
-Bye-bye.
Bye-bye, Luisa and Ralitsa.
So I said goodbye to the neighbors. I looked at the time on my phone and I had 5 minutes or I was going to get it. Realistically even if I wasn’t in a hurry I’d still be there on time but the first day I didn’t know about what time to be and Ivelina set me up nicely. By the time I got to work I was looking around for Deni. I felt like I had hope that he would show up out of nowhere. I had, but he wasn’t there. So time that usually passes slowly was now like a blink of an eye. Where was Denis?
-Come on, Rosa!
I slapped my cheeks lightly and walked into the cafeteria.
-Hello, Ivelina!
-Hey, Rosa. How was the date?
-Well…
-Let me guess… In the end you left on your own.
-How do you know?
-Let’s just say I was watching you the whole time.
-Why, you!
-I couldn’t let you go. He could have raped you or hit you.
-Or you just wanted to make fun of me the next day!
-It’s not like that. I was seriously worried about you. Let me tell you what happened yesterday.
-Only, well, only if you make fun of me do I quit immediately.
-All right, just get dressed for work and I’ll explain.
I nodded.
-From what I saw your date went normally. It was far from ideal, but you both had no experience. Maybe a good meeting worked out.
-So what, you know, the end result-
Ivelina interrupted me.
-I’ll get there. Everything was going perfectly until you said, “Deni, I have to tell you something.”
-What about it?
-Whatever you want to call it, but there’s a book on ways to reject someone and not hurt them at the same time. There are many expressions and this is one of them.
-Seriously? Is he that stupid to believe that crap?
-Actually, the book mentions that there’s a high chance of it being rejection and very little chance of it not being, but apparently he took it to heart and thought you wanted to not hang out with him, just saying.
-You keep up the surprises, Ivelina.. So because of a misunderstanding he ran away?
-Exactly. I even think that the girl who rejected him was actually busy on the given day, but promised him to be her gentleman at her ball.
-And how did you find all this out?
-I’m good at reading people.
I sighed loudly.
-Now what to do?
-Leave him.
-Why?
-Let’s say I know the girl he’s talking about. She’s in a different category. If you attract the abnormal, she attracts all life like a magnet. Shall I go on?
-No, don’t.
-Let’s make the best of this.
-What kind of benefits?
-First time you go out and with a normal guy. Now you can do it safely and maybe it’ll be easier to judge the guys instead of calling them abnormal. Up until 3 days ago, you wouldn’t have even considered it.
-You’re right. I’ve changed, even a little. What happened to Deni?
-Are you crazy to go after him?
-No, what happened to him.
-You’re not gonna believe this.
-Say it.
-When he was running away from you, he bumped into a nobleman’s daughter and touched her in the wrong place. In order to get himself clear of it, Deni agreed to go out on a date with her. Whether he’ll remember it or not is another matter, but the trouble follow him as honey attracts flies. I couldn’t hear exact details because of the music in the restaurant.
-Good morning.
-Come on, Rosa, the first customer is here.
-Welcome. What would you like?
-For some reason even I knew I was smiling a natural smile. Maybe there’s hope of getting a boyfriend someday,
-I’d like a hot coffee with cream and 2 packets of sugar.
-Got it. For here or for the way?
-For the way.
But I’ll never give up, and I’m SURE I’ll have a boyfriend one day. Maybe even two!

Afterwords.

I want to thank the people who are reading now or will be reading in the future. Well, how do you see the story setting? Boring? Interesting? Something more in the middle? Did you find any errors or inconsistencies? Write in the comments what you think. As a freelance writer, it’s hard to find the perfect formula on how to write and format everything so it can be pleasing to the eye and yet easy to read and understand. No matter how good my English is. It is not my mother tongue and there will always be mistakes. When I have time I will draw and upload a sketch of Rosa. The color version will be added later and will only be for those who donate. If get many readers I got a promised manga adaptation, but even if doesn’t happen I’ll still be happy as long as there are people anywhere in the world to read and most importantly find it interesting because I’ve been called the fool in the family all my life. Please if you enjoy support this work of fiction! See you in next arc which will be continue from Rosa arc(not from extra part) starting from tommorow!

The Begining

Hello. The name is Deni. I’m looking for a girlfriend, or at least trying to. It’s hard nowadays. Seems like girls don’t know how much it hurts to be thrown like a napkin in the trashbin. It all started in that day. Maybe before that. I have no way of knowing for sure, but the end result is present. There are a thousand ways to reject someone. I read it in a book after that day.

That fateful day

A few days before the prom, I finally decided to muster up the courage and ask a girl to go out with me to the prom. I was far from ideal, I had no muscles, I weighed a bit more, I was ugly(I thought so seeing myself in the mirror no matter how I dressed), I had a weird haircut and tied my hair up with an elastic band. I had no confidence in myself. But if I don’t do that today, then when? I dressed sportingly.
-Blue shirt. There. Sporting seven eighths pants. There. Cool glasses. There. Perfume and roll-on. I used. Something’s missing. Oh, gel and to fix my hair.
I went to the bathroom and put gel in my hands. Then I put it on my hair. I did a cool up-do on pins. I tied my hair up in the back with an elastic.
-You’re one hell of a sexy prom date. You’re not. Just kidding.
I didn’t know much about the girl except her address. She and I never even said hello. Only while I was running from bullies at school did she always look at me in a way that made me dizzy. I often saw her helping others.
-Sylvia, can you give me your homework. I forgot to write it.
-Okay, but next time don’t forget, Vanio.
She gave him her notebook. Yes, her name is Sylvia.
-Sylvia, can I have your History textbook?
-Yes, of course, George. Iva will share hers with me.
-Sylvia, how do I solve this problem?
-You’re using X instead of…(that part was like speaking in an alien language. I didn’t understand anything)
-Yeah. Thank you very much.
-Sylvia, these girls are having trouble with some of the PE exercises. Could you help them?
-Yes, of course, teacher. Come on, girls.
She was always smiling as she helped the others. No matter how of a dork and stupid I was I knew she was one of the popular girls. She was in 9th grade. And how did I know about her? Let’s just say I was like a dummy for the bullies. I was constantly running away from them and I saw her more often than you could imagine. It wasn’t like that at first until I saw her at the beginning of the year. Gradually things changed. With that, so did my feelings for her. Yes, I was in love with her. Whenever I tried to normally meet her and talk something went wrong, but everything was fine except for the part of catching a glimpse of her for a few seconds while running away from the bullies. The only positive thing I was getting out of everything. The perfect girl.
I hastily brushed my teeth and stepped out of the bathroom.
-Mom, I’m going outside.
-Good luck, my boy.
-How do you know?
-Mom’s secret. Now go.
Mom winked at me as I closed the door. According to what I heard Sylvia lives in a boarding school. Second floor, room seven. I walked away. I hoped somehow I wouldn’t run into any bullies from school. If they could for one day
leave me alone.
-Hey, look at that loser Deni trying to ask a girl to the prom. Let’s follow him in secret.
-Lets go.
I heard voices’ in the background but didn’t pay attention, but maybe I should have. I lived at one end of town, near the neighborhood full of hooligans, and the boarding house was at the other end. Students from villages or other towns often lived there. I had no way to get around the neighborhood of hooligans, but I could walk through streets where there was rarely a living soul.
-Brother, what’s going on?
-Well, will you come and watch a girl turn down this sissy’s invitation for the prom?
-Well, sure.
I heard voices again, but they must have been from the other streets. I hope I don’t smell bad, because nobody’s cleaned the pipes in years. It wasn’t a big town. It didn’t have a population of 100,000. It was a big area and often workers or students from the villages came to work or study. To top it off, we had the sea. To avoid the hooligans I didn’t get on the bus. Even now I didn’t know if she was at her place, but I had no choice but to hope.
Good thing I wore a roll-on because I would have smelled. It was unusually hot outside. After a long walk I finally found myself in front of the boarding house. I didn’t have a key, but I knew the manager of the boarding house.
-‘Hi Denny, what do you want?
She showed up and asked me this question.
-Well, I want to ask one of the girls for the prom.
-Is that so?
I nodded.
-Who’s the lucky girl?
I just blushed without answering.
-Well then, I’ll let you in, my boy.
She opened the door and then I walked in. Floor two, apartment seven. Sylvia, I’ll ask you out for the prom. I walked two steps at a time to get there. I was on the second floor. Now to find room seven. I didn’t know anything about the boarding house, but I saw some room numbers that had bearings. 4. 5. 6 and here it is 7th. I rang the bell.
-Yes, who is it?
-I’m Deni.
-Deni? Are you the boy from twelfth grade?
-Yes, the same one.
-What do you want?
-First, please open the door.
-Okay.
She opened the door.
-And what would you like?
When she opened it, I was so nervous that I had trouble even speaking civilly.
-23rd… The Ball…. I will.
-I’m sorry. but I can’t.
When I heard it was as if a heavy weight had fell on me. I ran away with all my might in this very instant.
-Then it will be my grandmother’s funeral, but will you come to my ball as my gentleman?
I didn’t hear what she said, but it was clear that she preferred others to someone like me. At that moment, I set my sights to find a girlfriend. I walked out of the boarding house and saw all the hooligans gathered.
-Watch the loser.
-Yes, maybe a girl decline your invitation?
-You are pathetic.
-Run away and cry to your mom.
-Mother’s boy. Sorry, meant girl.
The hooligans were making fun of me, and I was running home at breakneck speed. They didn’t seem to be following me, but they kept making fun of me and laughing. After maybe a moment or maybe more I found myself at homr. I went inside.
-How did it go, Deni?
I didn’t even have the strength to answer.
-Poor thing. It’s not scary, one day you will have a girlfriend.
I didn’t eat dinner that day, and the next day the hooligans were talking about how I was rejected on the social medias. And they didn’t stop there. They even put up posters on the streets. On the day of the prom, I didn’t even go out of shame. I graduated without going to the prom.
-Today I am no longer a student and it’s time to find a girlfriend!
I shouted as I ran away after being given my diploma. I must have been ridiculed, and what I said made me feel ashamed, but it didn’t matter. I already had a goal in my otherwise aimless life. TO-FIND-A-GIRL-FRIEND!