High Society Redefined

chapitre 7 :

Athena's POV :

It's been a week since I moved to Destiny Town, and time has felt like it's been crawling. I spend most of my days stuck at home or going to Asher's café. Our relationship has improved somewhat; we exchange a few words when we see each other, which is often since he's my neighbor.

One problem I'm facing is money. My initial allowance of $2,000 is now down to $1,500. I have no idea how I'll make it through six months with this amount in an incredibly expensive city.

Athena's thoughts continued to swirl in her mind. She knew that finding a job in this small town would be no easy feat, especially with the limited opportunities available and the reputation she had earned in the city for her extravagant lifestyle.
She felt a pang of disappointment at her own predicament. If only her father hadn't sent her here, she would still be in the city, enjoying her wealth and freedom. But now, she was stuck in this town, forced to face the realities of a simple life, with limited options and a dwindling bank account.

With a sense of determination, Athena decided to go for a jog and see if any of the few boutique shops around town were hiring. She changed into a tight, black shorts and a cropped top that accentuated her figure.

As she stepped out of her house and began jogging towards the main street, she noticed a few heads turning in her direction, attracted by her striking appearance.

As Athena jogged past the old women, she overheard their whispers and muttered comments.
"Oh look at that new girl from the Astor family," one of them mumbled. "She's hardly wearing anything. I swear I saw her underwear."
Another old woman chimed in, shaking her head in disapproval. "No morals, that one. She's a disgrace to the Astor family."

Athena's cheeks flushed with embarrassment and frustration as she continued jogging, trying to ignore the judgmental whispers from the old women.
"No wonder her father sent her away," one of them said with a tut. "He must be ashamed of her behavior."
The other women clicked their tongues in agreement, continuing their whispered gossip.

Athena gritted her teeth, feeling the weight of the women's words weighing on her. She tried to block out their whispers and focus on her jogging, but it was difficult not to let it get to her.
"I heard she's been spending her father's money like water," one of the women said in a low voice. "She's lucky he even had the patience to deal with her for so long."

The gossiping continued as Athena finally moved out of earshot.
"She thinks she can do whatever she pleases, just because she comes from money," one of the women tsked.
"I bet she's here because she got in trouble with her father," another said, shaking her head. "Probably got caught partying too hard."

Asher, who had been nearby, overheard the gossiping women and noticed Athena's discomfort. He approached her and wrapped his signature black jacket around her lower half, offering some modest covering.
"Don't let them get to you," he reassured her. "They're just old folks who have lived here their whole lives. It's okay, but keep in mind that wearing revealing clothes here might be seen as disrespectful to them and the town's traditions."

Athena's voice trembled as she fought back tears, "Thank you, Asher," she managed to say.
He nodded in understanding, replying with a gentle jab, "Welcome, Barbie. Just try to get acquainted with the town's culture, and when you're back at home, do whatever you want."
She responded, "I was just doing some exercise and looking for a job..."

Asher's gaze softened as he looked at Athena, his expression hinting at curiosity and mild reproach.
"I have a question, Athena," he began, his tone cautious. "I overheard their chatter, and it seems like you're here not for a vacation, but as punishment from your father. Is that true?"
Athena responded in a low, ashamed whisper, "Yes, it's true. I lied. I'm here as a punishment."

Asher's voice was firm yet gentle as he made his offer, "You can work with me at my café, and help with photography. The pay won't be much, but it's better than nothing."
Athena protested, trying to decline his generosity. "No, I can't accept it. You've already helped me so much."
But Asher persisted, his tone kind but determined. "Athena, look. It's okay. Me and Xavier could use some help at the café, and I need help with photography, too. You can assist the clients with their outfits and pose while I take pictures."

A wave of gratitude washed over Athena as she thanked Asher. "Thank you so much," she said, her voice heartfelt.
Asher responded with a smile, "You're welcome. You can begin your work from tomorrow, at 9am at the café."
Athena nodded, a sense of determination in her voice. "I'll be there at 9am, okay."

As the conversation between Athena and Asher came to a close, Athena felt a mix of relief and excitement. She had found a job that could help her manage her reduced funds and give her a taste of independence.
Asher bid her farewell and headed back to his café, while Athena made her way back home. She couldn't help but feel a glimmer of optimism for the first time since arriving in Destiny Town.