"Ever thought about changing jobs?" James asked casually.
"I'd like to," Jay Johnson admitted, "but driving all day has my back acting up. I'm not great with people or words."
Hearing that James seemed interested in hiring him, Jay Johnson was internally thrilled. Someone like James, who nonchalantly paid $800 for cleaning, probably wouldn't skimp on a salary.
"You heard we're interested in having you as a driver and bodyguard. The hours might run late, and you'd need to be available around the clock. What do you think is a fair salary for that?" James asked.
Jay Johnson was taken aback at being asked to name his price, briefly pausing during the drive to think. He focused on reaching their destination smoothly first, contemplating his response quietly.
James didn't interrupt, knowing it was an important decision worth pondering.
He and Tailsa chatted softly beside him, absorbed in each other.
Jay Johnson was lost in thought, unsure what amount was appropriateâtoo high might make him seem greedy, too low and it wouldn't be worth it.
Though he'd known James less than half an hour, he trusted it wasn't a scam. His mindset was simple: if someone paid, he worked. If he had to pay, no thanks.
He couldn't care less about any join fees or promises once inside some networkâit never tempted him.
The only concern might have been if someone were after his car.
His new electric SUVâworth $28,000âwas his pride.
Finally, he hesitated before asking, "Would you need me to use my car for pickups?"
James promptly declined, "No need for that. We'll get you a more prestigious car to drive."
James was thinking of getting a car with wings on the emblem, the kind wealthy folks often rode inâvery impressive.
Relaxed by this, Jay Johnson figured modern society was harmonious enough that he wasn't being lured off to some foreign scam.
Eventually, convinced that James didn't seem to lack funds, he nervously suggested the amount he'd been contemplating: "How about $20,000 a month?"
He quickly added, "I've got a military background, still do daily runs and martial artsâhandle two or three average guys with ease. Used to cook, too, and I've traveled quite a bit."
James was satisfied with him but not with the salary proposal.
$20,000 a month wasn't nearly enough.
Human nature can be unreliable, especially in driver or bodyguard roles. If tempted with another's money and made to drive somewhere desolate, consequences could be dire.
Close security personnel should be well compensated to deter betrayal.
James calmly responded, "Alright, we'll do it your wayâ$20,000 for a trial month."
Jay Johnson was overjoyed, exclaiming, "Thank you, Sir! I'll strive to meet your expectations."
For him, $20,000 doubled his usual monthly incomeâa compelling reason to become a bodyguard even if the job was tougher, riskier, and less dignifying.
"I'm James, and she's Tailsa. Our safety's in your hands, Bro Jay."
James treated those around him with respect.
Jay Johnson quickly responded with humored humility, "Please, call me Jay."
James chuckled, preferring lively bodyguards to emotionless robots.
However, instead of deferring, he insisted, "You seem older, so Bro Jay fits you better. Focus on your job, not titles."
Continuing, he said, "No need for contracts. I'll send you this month's wages now, $20,000 for the trial."
As James confirmed the transfer, seeing Jay's smile broadening, he added an incentive, "After trial, it doubles. Exceed expectations, and every month, your pay increases by $1,000. Show me your loyalty, and you'll get a year-end bonus."
"???"
Jay Johnson was stunned.
A doubled salary?
A $1,000 monthly raise?
Was he dreaming, lucking out with a divine benefactor?
Jay Johnson, spinning to face James, saw nothing unserious in his demeanor.
His heart raced wildly.
Seeing an immediate $20,000 alert on his phone made it real, yet he was dazed, confirming in disbelief, "You mean it?"
"Absolutely. Perform well, earn more," James replied, smiling.
Speechless with gratitude, Jay Johnson almost kneeled to offer thanks like to a deity.
If this wasn't divine blessing, what was?
Consistent, significant raises? Unheard of.
Calculating swiftly, his doubled salary approached $60,000 in a year.
What about in two?
Calculations staggered his mind, threatening crash, the tally soaring over $120,000.
This rare opportunity was right there.
Choked with emotion, he thought of his growing family squeezed into a small space.
His house of less than 100 square meters felt tight for six.
Considering selling for a bigger four-bedroom, he faced car payments, plus caring for parents and kids.
Limited income left mortgages impossible.
In him flared the beliefârisking 28k on a ride-share car was the right gamble.
Interacting with patrons like James made it worthwhile.
Two good years with him could mean a family-feasible home.
Everyone finally fitting comfortably.
"Sir James, I'll do whatever you need, risking my life if necessary, to keep you both safe."
Freed of constraints, Jay shouted, his accent emerging in gratitude.
Resting against James, Tailsa looked up at a man overwhelmed by a mere few ten thousand figures.
Noticeably naive.
What if he knew that morning's gift topped $3 million? He might faint.
But sometimes naivety provided peace of mind.
Tailsa, snuggling into James's chest, told Jay Johnson, "Don't worry, we're safe. No need for violence."
James, smiling, added, "Right. Just stay loyal; others will handle the dirty work."
Jay nodded; bodyguards serving major figures rarely surprised him.
"I got it, boss. From now, Jay Johnson follows you."
"Great, let's get a new phone first."
Jay promptly exited, opening the door for James and shielding his head from bumps.
Unused to such service, James felt a rare awkwardness.
Uncertain if it was standard for high-end drivers or special because he was now Jay's boss, he commented:
"Let's keep things casual unless it's a formal event, or some big dealâthe pretense can be left out."
"Yes, sir," Jay responded quickly.