Oasis Online The Toymaker

CLEO’S POINT OF VIEW

The convivial atmosphere greeted me as soon as I stepped inside the bar. From the lazy spin of the fans to the sprawled light of eventide that will soon be starlit black, the place soaks in the ambiance of the exuberant night.

I wasted no time and hurriedly went inside the room designated for us staff and changed my clothes.

"Here's an order on table number eight, Cleo."

I nodded and grabbed the tray filled with liquor and chips from Erick, one of my co-workers.

"Here are your orders, Ma'am and Sir. Enjoy your stay." I smiled at the customers.

I've been a waitress at Obsidian, a resto bar, for almost seven months now. This has become my work ever since I decided to leave Arranmore, our province.

It was a tough decision. I didn't want to flee from the place where I bloomed and thrived. But I was left with no choice. I had to make sacrifices.

"Cleo, table number one."

I was pulled out of my reverie when Erick called my name. I heaved a deep sigh and continued working.

"Table six."

"There's an order on table fifteen."

"Follow up order on eight."

"Give this to table number ten."

I gulped down a glass of water and puffed out a heavy breath. I feel like I will pass out at any moment.

It's already ten in the evening, and people still keep on pouring in. That means our torture is unceasing.

I roamed my eyes around the bar, and my gaze eventually settled on a group of socialites laughing at their table. The expensive liquor served in front of them can vouch that their wallets are sparkling with lavish bills.

They look so carefree and laid-back, as if they don't have problems aside from how they will spend their money. And that honestly made me envious.

I wonder when I will have that kind of life. Where I don't need to go the extra mile just to survive this dismal and wretched world. Where I don't need to work my fingers to the bone just to make ends meet.

I saw my reflection at the stainless walls. My hair is unkempt, my white-colored shirt is crumpled and my face is covered in sweat. I look so freaking terrible.

"Cleo!"

I quickly wiped the tears that fell from my eyes and looked at Callie, our manager.

"Yes?"

"Leave those tables. I need you to serve our VIP customers."

My forehead creased. "Where are the others?"

"Erick's shift ended, he left already. The others are also busy."

I wanted to refuse because I look like an absolute shit, but she left before I could even utter a word.

I sighed. "I guess I have no choice."

I headed to the kitchen and returned the cleaning materials that I used. I washed my hands and abruptly fixed my appearance.

"Here. Bring this on VIP room number three." Callie handed me their orders.

There are five VIP rooms available in Obsidian. Those rooms are intended for people who want a more peaceful atmosphere while they are drinking.

Despite my reluctance, I got the trays containing an ice bucket and beers. There are also platters of chips on the side. I rolled my eyes when I saw that the drinks they ordered were the most expensive ones.

How could people spend so much on liquor?

I mentally slapped my face. I should really stop poking my nose on other people's business. That's their own money anyway.

I carried the trays towards the second floor where the VIP rooms are situated. I turned the knob of the door- that I instantly regretted.

Two motherfuckers are fucking their brains out on the couch. The woman is grinding on the man's lap while the latter is busy putting marks on her neck.

My poor eyes don't deserve to witness such a revolting scene. I feel so violated and harassed.

"Oh God, that feels so good."

My cheeks flushed when she moaned out of the sudden. I averted my gaze and muttered several expletives.

I'm not an innocent person, but for Pete's sake, I didn't wish to witness live porn!

I faked a cough because it seems like they still haven't noticed my presence. And it was effective because finally, they stopped.

"I'm sorry for the disturbance, but here are your orders."

The woman turned to me. I saw how she rolled her eyes and muttered something that I chose to ignore.

Without waiting for their words, I placed the trays on the table across them.

"Just press the buzzer if you need anything more. Have fun."

My eyes accidentally met the man's gaze, and my heart leapt when I saw his ice-cold expression. Those pairs of orbs are void of any emotions, like a bare hollow.

It was only a fleeting moment, but I was able to recognize the exulted aura of dominance that he exudes. His intimidating features stood boldly on his stoic face. His deep-set eyes, aristocratic nose, slightly-furrowed eyebrows, and prominent jawline scream power and nobility.

I looked away when I realized that I've been staring at him for quite a long time already. I don’t want to sow an erroneous assumption on him.

A great sense of relief filled my chest when I finally left the room.

"Cleo, are you okay?"

I threw Callie a quick glance. "I am. Why did you ask?"

"Your cheeks are so red."

I nibbled my lower lip. I'm blushing because I still remember that hideous scene I found when I entered that damn VIP room.