Chapter 17: Everyone’s Just Trying to Survive
Chapter 17: Everyone’s Just Trying to Survive
The apartment was in the city’s central ring.
In Jingang City, there were two main hotspots: the city center, where high-end hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and casinos attracted crowds, and the port area, catering to the working class with affordable entertainment.
Whereas a private show at a downtown strip bar cost at least fifty dollars for thirty minutes, similar services at a lively port bar only cost ten dollars, with an extra five for an additional "hands-on" experience. This wasn’t technically illegal; according to Federation law, specific “actions” had to occur for something to qualify as illicit. For the sailors, hard-earned money was spent with ease, while the girls worked openly, earning a decent living without shame.
Outside of these busy areas, other parts of the city were quiet, meaning rent was more affordable.
Eyeing the apartment building, Lance began laying out the plan before they even got out of the car.
“Elvin, you and… (Friend A), stay outside. Watch for anyone leaving the building, especially our guy. If he bolts, stop him—there’s a crowbar in the trunk.”
“Ethan, you and… (Friend B) come up with me. Your job is to keep the door secure and chase off onlookers.”
“Remember, look intimidating,” Lance added. “If this job goes smoothly, I’ll ask Mr. Corti to throw in some bonuses. This work’s legal, and it pays faster than a regular job.”