Member-only story
I Took Money From a Grieving Man and then Blocked Him
Sometimes the worst thing you can do to someone is really the best
Years ago, I used to answer phones for an escort service. I also happened to be a “flirt girl” for my boss’ side hustle. The job was pretty straightforward.
Lonely men looking for a conversation instead of sex would call in. They’d pay a premium to chat with young women, who mainly were me with various fake names: Barbie (me), Ginger (also me), Heidi (definitely me). I would pocket some of the fees per minute, plus tips.
“You won’t be talking sexy. I have another line for that,” my boss had told me. “Just tell them it’s not allowed. Don’t give your name, number. You know, be smart. Let me know if anything goes wrong, but it’s pretty easy money. $2 a minute, and you keep tips. Sound okay? “
My boss was right. It was an easy gig. 99.9% of the men who called in understood the game that they were there for nothing more than entertainment.
But then Ben called one day.
One day he brought up his wife.
Ben had a thick Irish accent and the blunt wit to match. I did enjoy talking to him, letting him sing to me for hours, and play the harmonica. He knew three songs: Amazing Grace…
