EX-istential Crisis

Chapter 29:The Host Dilemma

Beru was known for his unique double life. By day, he blended into the background as a janitor at Cyberton University. But when night fells, he transforms into "Black Playboy" one of the top hosts at Demon's Grace Club. His success at the club was largely thanks to his mentor, Lucifer—the club's strikingly handsome boss and top manager, known for his good looks and charm. Unlike the other hosts, Lucifer focused on managing the establishment rather than entertaining guests himself.

Lucifer was not just a boss; he was Beru's mentor, guiding him in the ways of the nightlife and helping him navigate the complexities of being a host. One evening, after a particularly busy night, Lucifer approached Beru with an urgent request.

"Beru," he said smoothly, leaning against the bar with his usual confident air, "I need to talk to you about something important."

Beru looked up, curious. "What's going on, Boss?"

Lucifer's expression shifted to one of seriousness. "The top host, Vermiel the Lotus Prince, has an emergency and will be out for the next three days. I need someone to fill in for him. Can you handle that?"

Beru's eyes widened. "Me? You want me to step in as a top host? That's a tall order."

Lucifer nodded, his gaze steady. "You're one of my best. You know how to connect with people, and you have the charisma to pull it off. Just keep them entertained until Vermiel returns."

Beru thought for a moment, then grinned. "Alright, I can do it. But there's a small issue—I know someone who could step in even better."

Lucifer raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Who are you thinking of?"

Beru chuckled. "It's Nelly. He's a quick learner and great at mimicking people. But there's a catch—his 'baby girl' might go nuts if she finds out he's working at a host club."

Lucifer smirked. "That's not our problem. If you think he can do it, then go for it."

The next morning, while Beru was sweeping the campus at Cyberton University, he spotted Nelly walking by, lost in his thoughts. Beru seized the opportunity, jogging over and grabbing him by the shoulder.

"Yo, Nelly, you got time?" Beru asked, trying to sound casual, but there was an urgency in his voice that didn't go unnoticed.

Nelly looked back, surprised. "What do you mean, 'I got time'? You freaking grabbed me—now I have time! What's going on?"

Beru leaned in, lowering his voice as if they were about to plan a heist. "Alright, listen up, man. I need you to do me a huge favor."

Nelly raised an eyebrow, immediately sensing that Beru was about to rope him into something absurd. "Serious? What, did you get caught with your pants down or something?"

Beru rolled his eyes. "No, man, it's nothing like that. I need you to help me out at the club."

Nelly sighed. "You mean Demon's Grace? What, you short on hosts or something?"

Beru nodded. "Vermiel, our top 1 host got an emergency and will be out for three days. I need someone to fill in, and you're the best option I've got."

Nelly's eyes widened. "You want me to pretend to be a host? Nah, bro, no way. If Mira or any of the guys find out, they'll never let me live it down."

Beru grabbed him by the shoulders, his expression pleading. "Come on, man! I swear I won't tell anyone, especially not Mira. It's just three days, and I'll owe you big time."

Nelly hesitated, already imagining the relentless teasing he'd get if anyone found out. "I don't know, Beru... This seems like a bad idea."

Beru put on his best puppy-dog eyes, a trick he'd learned from Lucifer. "Please, man! You're my only hope! I'll make it worth your while."