The Price of Losing

Training start

Just as they were about to leave, Jess paused. "Hold on one second," she said, dashing back into her room. Moments later, she returned holding the familiar collar with the small keys dangling from it.

"I almost forgot this," she said. "But... I don't think I'll need them today.". She placed the collar back into her neck.

As they approached the shop, Jess unlocked the door and held it open for him with a mock flourish. "After you, assistant," she said, her voice laced with amusement.

Oliver stepped inside, and Jess turned to him with a smile. "Alright, so here's what I need from you today. We're expecting a few new shipments, and I'll need you to help me unpack and organize. Think you can handle that?"

"Absolutely," he replied.

He set to work, opening boxes and carefully sorting items onto the display shelves. Jess stayed close by, occasionally leaning over to inspect the items or making small talk.

Around mid-morning, Jess called him over. "Look at this," she said, holding up a sleek leather harness that had just come in. She turned it over, inspecting the quality with an approving nod. "We've had a few people ask about harnesses lately," she said, draping it over her shoulder with a thoughtful look. "Might even be a good demo item."

Oliver gave her a look. "You want me to be the demo guy again, don't you?"

"Of course! You're practically an expert by now," she teased, handing it to him. "Go ahead and try it on. It'll give customers a chance to see how it fits on an actual person."

Oliver nodded, taking the harness from her and slipping it on. Jess stepped forward, adjusting the straps and tightening them so that it fit perfectly. "Not bad," she said, admiring her work. "Actually... really good." She stepped back and took a moment to appreciate the sight with an approving smile. "You know, you've got the perfect look for this; confident,  steady. You're going to sell out our inventory if you keep this up."

By lunchtime, a couple of regular customers had wandered in, both of whom gave curious glances at Oliver and his new "uniform."

One of them, a friendly woman in her early thirties, raised an eyebrow as she walked over. "Wow, stepping up your demo game, I see," she commented.

Oliver returned her smile. "Just helping out."

Jess chimed in with a laugh, "Oh, he's been incredibly helpful. He's actually been trying out some of our bestsellers lately. It's been a great way to give customers a closer look."

"Well, it's certainly effective advertising. You wear it well, Oliver." The woman said amused. "It's nice to see you both enjoying yourselves here. Makes shopping a lot more fun."

As the woman left, Jess shot Oliver a playful look. "See? Natural talent," she said.

They spent the rest of the afternoon helping customers, each one sparking a different interaction. As the shop quieted down toward the end of the day, Jess turned to Oliver with a thoughtful expression. "You know, I think we make a good team," she said, her tone softer.

Oliver nodded, a warm feeling spreading through him. "I think so too."

Just as the evening settled in, a younger woman walked into the shop. She had short, choppy hair dyed a striking shade of blue and wore a leather jacket adorned with patches and pins. She strolled up to the counter, glancing curiously between Jess and Oliver.

"Hey," she greeted, scanning the shelves. "I'm looking for something... unique. My partner's birthday is coming up, and I want to surprise him with something that'll, y'know, keep him on his toes."