Page 12 of My Soul for Sale

He froze, threw a small baggie at her, and left. She fucked her dealer in our bed… my bed for dope.

My marriage ended that day and not soon after, I realized I never loved Ali. I didn’t miss her at all. I did, however, miss the family I thought I had. The idea of someone at home waiting for me. That loved me and wanted me… someone that wasn’t my son.

My heart races as I read the words, confirming my acceptance to the auction as a bidder, and Atlas as my guest.

We have to sign a contract, which looms over me, a reminder of the gravity of this opportunity. It's not just about acquiring merchandise—it's about trust. Trust that we'll return what we've bought and that we'll abide by the rules of the auction.

There’s also a key card nestled in the envelope, which is to serve as the key to the building. May 10th, 8 pm—our entry into the world where we pay for sex with strangers.

“What’s that?” Atlas asks as he steps into the kitchen, opens the fridge, and grabs a bottle of water.

“Our official acceptance to the auction, along with the key to the palace.” I hold up the key card, and Atlas smiles.

“Fuck yeah.” He takes a drink of his water. “What do you think they’ll look like? The women, that is. They have to be attractive, right? Or maybe they’re not, but they’re down for anything. It could go either way.”

“Haven’t thought much of it. I feel bad saying it, since I always taught you it’s what’s on the inside that counts, but I’m not buying some lady for the weekend if she’s ugly. I don’t care how kinky she is.”

Atlas lets out a deep belly laugh and I smile. My face warms and my heart feels full. Being able to have this close of a relationship with my child is a blessing.

We're both eager to see what this whole auction is about and how the night will unfold.

“Speaking of the auction. Jenna texted me today, going absolutely nuts.” He smirks and grabs a bag of potstickers.

I shake my head in annoyance at Jenna's attitude. I’ve never cared for her and have told Atlas this on more than one occasion. He knows that even though I give my opinion, he’s free to make his own choices.

“Well, what did she say?”

“She bitched about us turning her in for breaching HIPPA. That she is now jobless and her dad is pissed and refusing to continue to lease her apartment for her if she doesn't have a job.” He grabs a pan and sets it on the stove, dumping some inside.

I roll my eyes. She's always been one to dodge accountability, deflecting blame onto others instead of owning up to her mistakes. "Some people never learn. But hey, I did the right thing. Don’t let her make you feel bad."

I watch as Atlas expertly flips the potstickers in the sizzling pan, the savory aroma filling our cozy kitchen. He plates the steaming golden-brown dumplings and we settle at the counter, our plates piled high.

The first bite is a burst of flavor, the perfect blend of crispiness and tenderness. Between mouthfuls, we discuss tomorrow's workday, knowing full well that this weekend's auction will demand our undivided attention.

"It's going to be a hectic next few days," I tell him. "We need to wrap up as much as we can before Friday." He nods, while I’m already mentally prioritizing our tasks for tomorrow.

"We'll make sure everything is in order before we leave," he assures me.

Chapter Eight

Sloane

Today’s the day and I’m excited yet nervous. I can’t wait to see who wants to spend a weekend with me. I'm slightly worried that no one will bid, but keep reminding myself that if Edward didn't think I'd sell, he wouldn't have chosen me.

My mind keeps wandering about who these buyers could be. Will I end up spending the weekend with the mayor, a millionaire, maybe even a mafia man… or will it be just a normal guy with money?

At least I know it will be a man. No offense to my ladies who love ladies, but I’ve never been with a woman and while I’m willing to explore, I wasn’t willing to risk not getting paid.

I can just imagine getting ready to be intimate with a lady, panicking, and then I’m moneyless. I'd be right back in the same situation I'm in now. With five hundred thousand dollars, I can put an all-cash offer on Grandma's house, and I'm not about to lose that chance.

The realtor called me yesterday after stating my interest in the property through an email. She said I needed a down payment to even be considered for financing; sixty grand.

I don’t have the means to gather that amount on my own. But with the money from this auction, I’ll be able to pay for the house and closing costs in cash. No loan, no mortgage. I’ll own it free and clear.

Did Edward’s email say anything about packing a bag? Should I put a few things in my BEIS weekender? He had me pick an alias and informed me that my hair and makeup would be done, but what am I supposed to wear all weekend?

I need to at least bring my toothbrush and deodorant, so I grab my bag and drop them inside. Grabbing a pajama set from my drawer, I shove that in. And, just in case I’m not naked all weekend, I snag two T-shirts and biker shorts. Then I grab the little bag holding my lingerie for tonight and call it good.

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