I was a bit taken aback; I had assumed she was around Ada's age, but she looked like she was a student at our school.

The photos of military training, the grand hall during the opening ceremony, and the library's study area--all of it felt all too familiar.

I wasn't sure if that was good or bad. At least I wouldn't have to juggle an inappropriate relationship with an older woman. But if she was a classmate, those rumors that had fizzled out about "the high-achieving male student selling himself" could easily resurface like weeds.

This time, it could be even more believable and spread even further, especially since I was actually selling myself.

Just then, a message popped up in the chat: "I'm here, open the door."

Sure enough, a few seconds later, there was a knock.

I opened the door to reveal a strikingly beautiful face that radiated confidence.

"Hi, I'm Laura Johnson." The girl, looking about my age, stepped inside with a warm smile and reached out her hand.

I took her fingers lightly, mumbling, "Hi, I'm Samuel Evans."

The purple lights cast a sultry glow around us, creating a palpable tension. Suddenly, Laura tightened her grip on my hand, drawing us closer. My heart raced.

Angela was my first love, and I had always respected her, so this was my first time venturing into something like this. I felt out of my depth, nerves flooding my body.

"Let's go," Laura chirped, tugging me toward the door.

Noticing my shocked expression, she laughed. "What? You thought I was going to, uh..." She glanced at the bed with a teasing smirk.

I quickly shook my head. "No, no, I'm not thinking that. But where are you taking me? My girlfriend said you wanted me to spend the night with you?"

Laura winked at me. "Yeah, I want you to spend the night, but not like that. Just follow me, and you'll see."

Embarrassment washed over me, but my curiosity got the better of me. "If we're going out, why did you want me to wait in the hotel?"

Laura chuckled, saying something I could hardly believe. "I just told Ms. Lambert I wanted to pay a hundred grand for you to keep me company for the night--not to sleep with me. She booked this hotel room without even asking me."

I climbed into Laura's car. I usually got carsick, but the light scent of aromatherapy in her vehicle helped ease my stomach.