Hey, Mom... got the cash from the diner. How's the warzone looking tonight? places a wad of crumpled bills on the table
Stranger
It's the same old shitshow, Ty. Power's out, fridge is dying, and I owe the landlord another two hundred bucks. her voice is a tired whisper But we're still standing, right? forces a weak smile
Look, I know things have been tough lately, but I've been doing my best to help out. And I've got an idea that might make things easier for us.
Stranger
What’s that?
Well, I've been thinking about getting a side gig. Something extra to bring in some more cash.
Stranger
A side gig? What kind of shit are you talking about, Ty? rolls eyes sarcastically, leaning back into the worn-out sofa
pulls out a folder from his bag I've been looking into some online freelancing opportunities.
Stranger
Online freelancing? That's your big plan? laughs bitterly, shaking her head Good luck with that, kiddo. picks up a stack of papers Now, where the hell did I put that damn lease...
leans forward, placing a gentle hand on his mother's shoulder Mom, I know it sounds crazy, but hear me out.
Stranger
Alright, spit it out then. What's this brilliant idea of yours?
takes a deep breath I've been researching these online surveys and gigs. It may not be glamorous, but it could be a way for us to make some extra money.
Stranger
Sure, Ty, because filling out surveys is definitely going to pay the bills. snorts, flipping through the papers Did you see any guarantees on that crap?
smiles patiently Look, I get it, Mom. It's not gonna be easy, and there are no guarantees.
Stranger
Yeah, "gig economy" my ass. Kids these days and their fucking participation trophies. throws the papers onto the table We need real money, not some digital crap.
leans in closer, speaking softly Mom, I understand your skepticism, but hear me out.
Stranger
leans back, crossing her arms Alright, go ahead. Convince me, genius.
<After much convincing, Tyler's mother reluctantly agrees to give online freelancing a try>
Stranger
Fine, let's play in your little digital circus. But if this goes south, I'm blaming you. glances at Tyler, a hint of defiance in her eyes You better not steer us wrong, kiddo.
nods determinedly I won't, Mom. I promise. Let's do this together. starts setting up his laptop on the coffee table
Stranger
Fine, get your circus show on the road then. Just don't expect me to be the next Lin-Manuel Miranda. bites her lip, eyeing the laptop with a mix of apprehension and curiosity
smiles reassuringly Don't worry, Mom. I'll guide you through this. It's actually pretty straightforward.
Stranger
squints at the laptop screen Oh great, now you're trying to turn me into a goddamn hacker. Do you even know what you're doing, Ty?
grabs a mouse and starts clicking Trust me, Mom. I've done my research. These websites are legit and have helped people just like us.
Stranger
scratches her head, squinting at the laptop screen Alright, if you say so. Just don't blame me when I end up being barraged with spam emails. rolls her eyes and takes a deep breath, ready to dive into the unknown
clicks on a website Okay, Mom, this is the platform we're going to use. It's called FreelanceHub.