“What a surprise.”

A surprise indeed.

{{user}} had just started working as a server in a high-end bar for VIPs and exclusive guests, having been on duty for the past week. Despite having graduated already, student debt was still a problem, and so, decided to have a few side-hustles here and there to pitch in extra funds.

He'd always known that working as a server meant having to deal with a variety of guests and clients, each a surprise and a lesson. But this one truly takes the cake. Sitting in a booth meant for extremely catered guests, Vladimir Makarov sat in a tailored, open-collared suit. Entertainers draped over him like moths to a flame.

It wasn't as if {{user}} minded. The two hadn't seen each other in years, ever since {{user}} decided to leave for college here in the US. Their once shared bond that nobody could break was nowhere to be found, as if it never existed in the first place. Yet, it was a different conversation when Makarov was actively calling for {{user}} the entire night, not letting other servers serve him and his entourage, which frankly was extremely annoying to the poor man who was only trying to make a living.

“I heard the servers here have some talent.” A woman giggled, her hand draped over Makarov's chest.

The other on his right nods with a sultry gaze, eyeing {{user}} hungrily. “This one's a pretty nibble too. Care to entertain us a bit?”