Paradise Induction Chapter 5 – Extract 16

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Chris put his thumb up to them and they in turn nodded their heads, then whispered to each other.

Raid approached. “Commissioner’s nephew,” he said. Chris could smell his strong breath, like a dose of blue cheese. “You back in paradise?”

“Yep. Gonna be bartending right here.”

“Man’s gonna be swimming!” he said, his voice elevating. “Right Laud! He’s a handsome man! Gonna be eating a lot of food. You make sure to share.”

Laud laughed and his American accent turned Caribbean. “A regular sweet-boy.”

Chris nodded and smiled. “Well guys. I’ve got to head off. A lot of things to do.”

He could see Vernon far off in the garden area, hidden by the trees, but looking in his direction.

“Catch up with you all soon,” Chris added as he turned and left.

Reaching the exit of the Fives’ garden area, Chris forced out the request he was loathed to say. He detested asking anyone for anything.

“Everything good?” said Vernon. 

“Yeah.” Chris paused. “Vernon, um. I’ve been told the Work Permit costs four hundred dollars.”

“Okay,” replied Vernon.

Chris took another quiet breath. “Is it possible I can borrow the money?” he said. “I only came here with a few hundred in my pocket and had no idea the permit was going to cost me.”

Vernon’s face was stern as they walked back to the car and got in.

“Okay,” he said. He pulled out a wad of hundred-dollar bills and handed Chris the money.

Chris’ stomach sunk as he stuffed it into his wallet. He really hated being in debt to anyone. “Thanks so much for this,” he said. “I’ll get the money back to you as soon as my first pay cheque comes in.”

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