Toxic sensitivity. Azo Dyes

     Understanding toxic sensitivity is important for risk assessment and management in areas such as occupational health, environmental health, and public health. Identifying individuals or populations with increased toxic sensitivity allows for targeted protective measures, exposure prevention strategies, and the development of guidelines to minimize harm and promote overall health and well-being.

     Let's turn our attention toward azo dyes.

     Azo dyes are a class of synthetic organic dyes that contain the azo (-N=N-) functional group. They are widely used in various industries, including textiles, printing, cosmetics, and food. Azo dyes are known for their vibrant and diverse range of colors, making them popular for coloring fabrics, paints, inks, and consumer products.

     The structure of azo dyes consists of one or more azo groups (-N=N-) that link aromatic compounds together. The specific arrangement and substitution of aromatic groups determine the color and properties of the dye. Azo dyes can have different chemical structures, such as monoazo, diazo, and polyazo compounds.

     Due to their extensive industrial use, large quantities of azo dyes are produced globally. However, some azo dyes and their degradation products have been found to possess genotoxic and carcinogenic properties, raising concerns about their environmental and human health impacts. Efforts are being made to develop sustainable and eco-friendly methods, including microbial degradation, to address the environmental challenges associated with the disposal of azo dyes

     The disposal of azo dyes requires careful consideration to minimize their potential environmental impact. Here are some common methods for the disposal of azo dyes:

1. Treatment at wastewater treatment plants: A significant portion of azo dyes is discharged into wastewater systems. Proper treatment at wastewater treatment plants can help remove or degrade azo dyes before the treated water is released back into the environment. Physico-chemical processes, such as coagulation, flocculation, and activated carbon adsorption, are often employed for dye removal.

2. Advanced oxidation processes: Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), such as ozonation, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, and Fenton's reagent (hydrogen peroxide and iron catalyst), can be used to degrade azo dyes and their degradation products. These processes generate highly reactive species that break down the dye molecules into less harmful substances.

3. Biodegradation by microorganisms: Microbe-mediated dye degradation is considered a low-input and environmentally safe method. Certain bacteria and fungi have the ability to degrade azo dyes by utilizing them as a carbon and energy source. This biodegradation process can occur naturally in soil and water environments. However, it is crucial to ensure that the metabolites produced during the degradation process are not more toxic than the original dye.

4. Adsorption: Adsorption onto activated carbon or other adsorbent materials is an effective method for removing azo dyes from wastewater. The dye molecules bind to the surface of the adsorbent, effectively removing them from the water. The adsorbent material can then be properly disposed of or regenerated for reuse

     Azo dyes make up over 70% of the global industrial demand, with approximately 9 million tons produced annually. Disposing of around 4.5 million tons of dyes and their degraded products poses environmental and socio-economic concerns due to their genotoxic and carcinogenic potential. Microbe-mediated dye degradation is considered a low-input, cost-effective, and environmentally safe method compared to physico-chemical approaches.

     The interaction between diverse dyes and microbes under different environmental conditions can result in varying levels of toxic metabolites. Past research on microbial dye degradation has focused mainly on decolorization, neglecting the detoxification aspect. Therefore, the environmental significance of microbial dye detoxification research conducted in the last three decades is evaluated, emphasizing the influence of dye structure and microbial interactions in different environments.


     Laboratory-based studies provide insights into the fate and consequences of azo dyes/metabolites, but their ecological significance is limited. Recommendations are made for future studies, including a multilevel approach, multispecies microcosm approach, native species approach, and identification of dye metabolites to bridge the gap between fundamental knowledge and practical application in combating dye-induced environmental toxicity. This analysis provides an environmental perspective on dye toxicity, considering dye structure and the effects of environmental processes, and proposes a research framework for a better understanding of complex interactions between dyes, microbes, and the environment, aiming to facilitate environmentally sound microbial dye detoxification research.

     Proper disposal of an environmentally toxic chemical can have several benefits, including:

1. Environmental protection: By disposing of the toxic chemical appropriately, you prevent its release into the environment, minimizing the potential harm to ecosystems, water bodies, soil, and wildlife. This helps maintain ecological balance and biodiversity.

2. Human health safeguarding: Toxic chemicals can pose risks to human health through direct exposure or contamination of air, water, and food sources. Proper disposal reduces the chances of accidental exposure and protects the well-being of individuals in the vicinity.

3. Preventing pollution: The correct disposal of toxic chemicals prevents pollution of air, water, and soil, which can have far-reaching consequences on the environment and human health. It helps reduce the burden on natural resources and mitigates pollution-related issues, such as air and water contamination.

4. Compliance with regulations: Many jurisdictions have specific regulations and guidelines for the disposal of toxic chemicals. Proper disposal ensures compliance with these regulations, avoiding legal consequences and potential penalties for improper handling or disposal.

5. Sustainable practices: Adopting proper disposal methods aligns with sustainable practices by minimizing the negative environmental impact. It promotes responsible resource management and encourages the use of eco-friendly alternatives, contributing to a more sustainable and greener future.

6. Reputation and social responsibility: For industries and organizations, implementing proper disposal measures demonstrates a commitment to environmental protection and social responsibility. It enhances their reputation among stakeholders, including customers, employees, and the community.

     Overall, the proper disposal of environmentally toxic chemicals is essential for safeguarding the environment, protecting human health, complying with regulations, and promoting sustainable practices. It helps create a cleaner and safer less toxic sensitive environment for current and future generations.

Define Open A.I. Chat GPT

     Exciting news for businesses and individuals seeking to harness the power of A.I. and natural language processing.  

     Chat GPT is a powerful and versatile tool that can help revolutionize the way we work and live! Open A.I., a research organization founded in San Francisco in 2015 by visionary entrepreneurs Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Greg Brockman, is behind this amazing A.I.-powered chatbot based on the GPT-3.5 architecture. (Fortune.com) Currently, 4.0 is looking to get covered up with 5.0, not yet slated for release.

     Open A.I. is committed to developing A.I. responsibly and has created several other A.I.-powered platforms, including GPT-3, one of the largest language models in the world. (Tech crunch.com)

     What makes Chat GPT so incredible is the fact that it can perform a wide range of tasks, from personalized product recommendations to mental health therapy. This chatbot can also automate repetitive tasks and provide customers with personalized experiences, helping businesses operate more efficiently and effectively. In education, ChatGPT can assist students with homework and provide feedback to teachers. It can even aid in legal research, medical diagnoses, and scientific research. The possibilities are endless, and the chatbot's capabilities can be trained to perform even more tasks. (Interestingengineering.com)

     Some people might be concerned about the potential risks associated with A.I., but the good news is that Chat GPT is available to the public and has safeguards in place to prevent potential misuse. As Altman notes, Open A.I. aims to ensure that the benefits of A.I. are shared with everyone, not just a few companies or individuals. This is a major milestone in the world of A.I., and we can't wait to see how Chat GPT will continue to transform industries and change the way we work and live.

     Try it out.  It's free. Click the link.  All you need is an email address and a password.

(Chat GPT)

Refund, please. ch. 8, by Swegi Gonbup, Gonbup Production©2023

Chapter 8 Aged

      Tommy enquired about the Rehab visit to Marco.  "Marco had blue lips. He seemed to be on a bad hangover," the employee said.

     After the ordeal simmered a bit, Tommy had a face to face with Marco.  Marco hesitated before confessing, "I've been struggling with fentanyl addiction. It's been hard to shake." Tommy felt a sense of responsibility towards his employee, and he knew he had to act fast. He immediately sought legal advice and learned about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With the help of his lawyer, he was able to work out a plan to help Marco recover from his addiction without losing his job.  Under the ADA, employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. Tommy made sure that Marco received the necessary medical treatment and support he needed to recover. He also ensured that Marco's job was protected during this time.  It wasn't easy, but Marco successfully completed his treatment and returned to 3884 stronger and more determined than ever. 

     Tommy was proud of him and felt a sense of fulfillment knowing that he had made a positive impact on someone's life.  As the business grew, Tommy became more involved in the community, giving back through charitable contributions and volunteering. He felt a sense of responsibility to use his success to make a difference in the lives of others. He even started a program to help struggling gigolos get back on their feet.

     One day, as Mr. Stepovich was sitting in his office, he received a call from an old client. She had been one of his first clients and had since become a close friend. She told him that she had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had one final request.  She wated to spend one last night with him.Tommy was hesitant at first, he was a boss, but he ultimately agreed to her request.  A terminal  request .  It was very different to perform with the Grim Reaper standing over the bed.

     That night, as they lay in bed together, he realized the true value of his work. He wasn't just selling sex, he was selling companionship, intimacy, and a sense of connection. He had helped so many people.  Tommy knew that he was making a real difference in the world.  As he lay next to his client, holding her hand, he felt a sense of peace and contentment. He had found his true calling, and he knew that he was meant to be a gigolo.

Refund, please. ch. 7, by Swegi Gonbup, Gonbup Production©2023

Chapter 7 Mr. Help

     As the boss, he was now in a position to help the employees that worked for him.  He felt like a superhero.

     It was easy to be outgoing with his workers.  He owned 3884.  Liam, 22, White, made Tommy laugh.  He seemed like an unpolished comedian.  The jokes just rolled out.  Funny as fuck, too.  Noah was easy to recognize as a gigolo.  Noah had perfect blonde hair, and it was hard to tell his ethnicity from one day to the next.  He talked about finally getting a GED.  Oliver, the old White dude, as he was referred to, was funny acting.  He could pass for a teenager, but he was 30 years old.  Elijah, Spanish, was an 18 year old book worm.  He was a lady killer at Barnes and Noble.  He didn't think I knew how he stalked me.  Nosey little sissy. He will answer for any ransomware attacks.  James had a perfect job to complement his ebony, MMA physique.  At 29, he was beginning to sway away from looking for a career in MMA.  William was 49, but he looked like he was 20.  Must be the curry.  He had a dirty Pakistani accent.  Benjamin, white, was a punk.  Nobody knew his real hair color.  He was 23, the go-to for the weirdos.  Lucas, Spanish, wanted to own a McDonald's one day.  He'd swear by it.  At 22, he had time to work towards that goal.  Good job, kid.  Henry was a smart ass, punk, white.  A 30 year old that spealized in emotional turmoil.  Then, we also had Theodore.  He was 21, Black, and he already had an MBA.  Congratulations, youngster.  If we opened another location, he was training to be the next boss.

     Tommy noticed one of his employees, Marco, 23, Spanish, wasn't his usual self lately. Marco had been with the company for two years, and he was one of the best performers. Now, his work was slipping. He missed appointments, and when he did show up, he wasn't as enthusiastic as he used to be. Tommy pulled him aside one day and asked him what was going on. "No worries," he said.

     Tommy decided to take action and have Marco followed home. He hired a private investigator to keep an eye on him and gather any useful information. After a few days of surveillance, the PI reported back to Tommy with Marco's address, which turned out to be in a sketchy part of town in some adult-only apartments on the southwest side of town. 

     Tommy took the reigns.  He used his 2017, Blacked out, Ford Mustang, GT. Inconspicuous, right.  He waited.  Marco got on schedule.  Tommy got in step.  At the apartments, he had to park illegally.  It was late, though, no issues.  Marco sat in the car for awhile, then he went home. Tommy was curious about what Marco was doing in his car for an hour before going to his apartment. He decided to send someone to keep an eye on Marco from a distance to find out what he was up to. After a few days of monitoring, the mystery was solved.  Marco was on fentanyl.  Like eight glasses of water a day.  His money wasn't suffering, though.  As a boss, Tommy knew that an influencer can lead the flock astray.  "This fentanyl shit needs to go away. Make this kid understand that he's great but that shit will destroy him", said Tommy.  "Yes sir, boss.  We got this," said the company maintenance man.

     Tommy didn't hear anymore about it.  Marco began to keep up with himself.  Then, Tommy received a call.  Marco's dad had him placed into Rehab.  He had a coworker visit him to get the details.  Tommy genuinely wanted to know if 3884 could help him.

Refund, please. ch. 6, by Swegi Gonbup, Gonbup Production©2023

Chapter 6 Moving on up.

     He started by reaching out, and began acquiring a genuine staff. New hires had a marketing contract. They had calls to make and scripts to read. Tommy spoke constantly with his staff.  He plotted, on the map, all of the best zones for exploitation.  Success was earned. 

     Tommy sat in his lawyer's office, going over the legalities of his gigolo service. He had come a long way since his days in jail, and he was determined to make sure everything was done legally. "You understand the potential liability issues, Mr. Stepovich?" the lawyer asked. Tommy nodded. "I do. That's why I want to make sure we have all of our bases covered."

     The lawyer went over the legal requirements for operating a gigolo service, including licensing and registration, as well as the importance of having contracts with both clients and employees." Your employees need to be properly vetted and trained," the lawyer said. "And you need to have clear policies in place for dealing with any complaints or issues that may arise."  

     Tommy took notes, making sure to ask questions whenever he didn't understand something. He wanted to make sure he was fully informed and prepared. Once the legal requirements were all squared away, Tommy turned his attention to the business side of things. He met with his accountant, going over his finances and making sure everything was in order for tax season. He also began to think about expanding his gigolo service. He had a loyal client base, but he knew there was potential for growth. He considered offering more specialized services, such as fantasy roleplaying or BDSM. However, he knew he needed to proceed with caution. He didn't want to risk losing the trust of his clients by branching out too quickly. He needed to make sure he had the resources and staff to support any new services he offered. 

     As he continued to grow his business, Tommy made sure to give back to his community. He donated a portion of his profits to local charities:  Salvation Army, Save the Children, and the American Red Cross.  Tommy offered discounted services to those in need.  He was proud of what he had built.  He knew he had come a long way from his days in jail. He was now a respected businessman, and he was determined to continue growing his gigolo service while always operating ethically and legally.  Tommy smiled to himself as he left the lawyer's office, feeling confident and taken care of.  His future was lining up.

     Mr. Tomislav Stepovich was in a new tax bracket.  Clients respected the brand, now. Long term clients were also giving feedback. Tommy's business continued to flourish, and he found himself with a surplus of cash on hand. He decided to invest in his business by opening up a brick-and-mortar location.  He consulted with a business attorney to ensure he was following all legal requirements for opening up a physical location. They went over lease agreements, permits, and zoning laws. Everything was done by the book.

     Mr. Stepovich contacted an associate, named Bentlee.  He was familiar with some great leasing arrangements.  He emailed him and quickly received an answer.  There were some PDFs to spill over.  He was referred to a website.  He new the areas and looked at MAPS to see the details.  His choices were based on price per square foot per year.  He estimated needed square feet plus room for growth.  After some time, he found a location that was perfect for his business. It was in a busy commercial area, with plenty of foot traffic. He signed a lease agreement with the landlord, Bentlee, which included provisions for safety and security.  Tommy also made sure to obtain all necessary permits and licenses from the city. He didn't want to risk his business being shut down due to a lack of compliance. He worked closely with his attorney to ensure he was following all zoning laws and that the property was up to code.  Once the location was up and running, Tommy hired a team of lawyers to draft contracts for his employees.

     The name of the business was simply the street address number of the building, 3884.  Simple, yet tasteful. 

     Tommy was careful, he wanted to make sure that everyone was protected and that there was no room for misinterpretation. He implemented a strict confidentiality agreement for both clients and employees to ensure privacy and discretion. He also ensured that all of his employees were properly trained on safety protocols and legal requirements.  Tommy knew that the gigolo industry was still largely unregulated, but he wanted to set a higher standard for his business. He made sure that his employees were above board and that they were operating in a legal and ethical manner.  As his business, 3884, grew, Tommy found himself facing new legal challenges. He sought the advice of his legal team on issues such as taxes, insurance, and liability. He wanted to ensure that his business was protected from any potential legal disputes.Tommy was proud of 3884. He knew that there were still negative stereotypes associated with the gigolo industry, but he was determined to change that. He wanted to show that it was possible to operate a successful, legal, and ethical gigolo service.  He continued to work closely with his legal team to stay up to date on any changes in laws and regulations that could affect his business. Tommy knew that by being proactive and staying on top of legal requirements, he could protect his business and provide a valuable service to his clients.  As he looked back on his journey, Tommy knew that he had come a long way from his days as a struggling gigolo. He was now a successful businessman, who had overcome adversity and had built a thriving company. He was proud of what he had accomplished and looked forward to continuing to grow 3884, while always operating within the boundaries of the law.

Refund, please. ch. 5, by Swegi Gonbup, Gonbup Production©2023

Chapter 5 Research student.

     The next morning, Tommy woke up feeling a newfound sense of determination. He was going to make the most of his gigolo career and turn it into a thriving business. 

     First, he needed to do some research. He spent the day pouring over books and articles about the gigolo industry, taking notes and jotting down ideas. He learned about the different types of clients and what they were looking for in a gigolo. He read about the importance of discretion and confidentiality, and how to build a loyal client base. As the day turned into night, Tommy's head was swimming with information. He decided to take a break and grab some dinner at a nearby diner, Denny's. As he sat at the counter, sipping his coffee, a middle-aged woman sidled up to him. "Hello there," she said, batting her eyelashes. She was a milf. Not at all a hooker. She had grab-tempting tits. Her jeans didn't lessen the impression. Cute face, too. Her vibe was mature. 

     Tommy smiled politely, "Hi."  The woman leaned in closer, "You're a handsome young man. What brings you to this part of town?" Tommy raised an eyebrow. "Research," he said simply. The woman's face fell. "Oh. Well, if you ever need a...subject for your research, you know where to find me." Tommy chuckled, "Thanks, I think I've got all the research I need.  The research I want is going to be hard" She enjoyed herself. The waitress brought Tommy's order.  Tommy played his hand.  Milf-muffin laid her cards out.  She agreed.  Erection material, right there. The woman shrugged, anticipating their subsequent meeting, and walked away.  Tommy finished his meal in peace. 

     He slurped the freshly poured coffee, and thought about the different types of clients he had read about. Some were lonely, looking for companionship. Others were seeking excitement and adventure. And then there were those who simply wanted someone to talk to.Tommy made a mental note to keep these different types of clients in mind as he built his gigolo business. He knew that by catering to their specific needs and desires, he could build a loyal client base and make a name for himself in the industry.  

     As Tommy paid his bill and walked out of the diner, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was going to be the best gigolo he could be, and he was going to make a lot of money doing it.

The next day, Tommy hit the streets to do some field research. He walked around different parts of town, observing the types of people who lived there and the businesses that were thriving.  He walked in front of a fancy hotel, and decided to go in.  He was curious about what kind of clientele it attracted. As he walked through the lobby, he saw a woman sitting in a plush chair, staring at her phone. 

     Tommy approached her and introduced himself. "Hi there, I'm Tommy. Do you mind if I ask you a few questions?" He gave off a warm, friendly vibe. The woman looked up at him, intrigued, "Sure, go ahead." Tommy asked her about her job, her hobbies, and her interests. He listened intently as she spoke, taking mental notes about the things that seemed to excite her and make her happy.  Interesting.  Money making knowledge. As he left the hotel, Tommy felt a surge of confidence. He was getting better at reading people and figuring out what they wanted. He knew that this would be a valuable skill in his gigolo business.  Over the next few days, Tommy spent his time studying business models and developing a plan for his gigolo career. He decided to focus on providing high-quality service to his clients, while also building a reputation for discretion and confidentiality. He also decided to create a luxurious website, and some social media accounts, to promote his services. He spent hours designing the website and creating content that would appeal to his target audience.

     As the weeks went by, Tommy's business began to grow. He started getting more and more clients, and his reputation as a top-notch gigolo began to spread. He even hired a few other gigolos to work for him, expanding his business and taking on more clients.  Despite the challenges of the gigolo industry, Tommy felt fulfilled and happy. He was doing what he loved, and he was making a lot of money doing it. He knew that there would be bumps in the road along the way, but he was confident that he could handle anything that came his way.  As he lay in bed at night, Tommy thought about all of the people he had met along the way. Some had been lonely, looking for companionship. Others had been seeking adventure and excitement. And then there were those who simply wanted someone to talk to.  Tommy knew that he had the skills and experience to meet all of those needs and more. He was determined to be the best gigolo he could be, and he knew that he had a bright future ahead of him.

     As Tommy's business continued to grow, he became more and more successful. He began to travel to different cities, meeting new clients and expanding his network of contacts.  One day, Tommy received a call from a woman named Julia. She was a wealthy socialite who lived in New York City and was in need of a gigolo for a high-profile event. Tommy was thrilled to have been chosen for the job, and he immediately began making preparations for the trip.  

     When he arrived in New York, Tommy was amazed by the city's energy and class. He checked into a luxury hotel and began to get ready for the event.  As he was getting dressed, Tommy realized that he had forgotten his cufflinks. He quickly called the hotel's concierge, but they didn't have any cufflinks available. Tommy started to panic, he couldn't show up to the event without the proper attire.  Just then, there was a knock at the door. It was Julia, holding a small box. "I heard you needed some cufflinks," she said with a smile.  Tommy was grateful and amazed by her kindness. As he put on the cufflinks, he realized that this was a special kind of gigolo relationship. This is one that went beyond the physical.The event was a success, and Tommy impressed all of Julia's guests with his charm and wit. Afterward, Julia took him out for a night on the town, showing him some of her favorite spots in the city.  Over the next few days, Tommy and Julia spent a lot of time together. They went to art galleries, took long walks in Central Park, and even went on a helicopter ride over the city.  As their time together drew to a close, Tommy realized that he had feelings for Julia that went beyond the gigolo-client relationship. He didn't know how to tell her, though, and he didn't want to risk jeopardizing their business relationship.  

     On the day of his departure, Julia gave Tommy a gift.  It was a small, silver bracelet. "This is for you," she said. "To remember me by."  Tommy was touched by the gesture, and he knew that he would never forget Julia or their time together.  As he boarded the plane back to Dallas, Tommy felt a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. He had built a successful business and had met some incredible people along the way. He knew that there would be more challenges and adventures ahead, but he was ready to face them head-on. Mr. Tomislav Stepovich, once a young man with nothing but a dream, had become a successful entrepreneur and gigolo extraordinaire. He had found his place in the world and was ready to take on whatever came his way.

     Then, Evelyn meandered in his direction.  He couldn't see the case she carried.  A psych patient that didn't remember she had ordered sex. Evelyn refused to ask, politely, for a refund.

Refund, please. ch. 4, by Swegi Gonbup, Gonbup Production©2023

Chapter 4. A lookback.  

     As Tommy delved deeper into the world of sex work, he becsme increasingly more familiar with the ins and outs of being a gigolo. He learned that being a gigolo was much more than just having sex with clients.

     Tommy sat at the bar, nursing a drink and chatting with his coworker, Max. Max had been in the business for years, and Tommy had quickly learned that he was a valuable source of information."So, Max, what's the deal with being a gigolo?" Tommy asked. Max raised an eyebrow. "Ask fucking Google?" Tommy rolled his eyes. "I know what it means to have sex for money, Max. I'm talking about the other stuff. How do you keep your clients wet?" Max took a sip of his drink before responding.Tommy and Max ordered another round of drinks and continued to chat. 

     Tommy found himself feeling more and more comfortable with the idea of the job, despite the initial shock of his first encounter with a client.  As the night wore on, Tommy's mind started to wander. He couldn't help but wonder what his mother would think if she knew what he was doing for a living. She had always taught him to work hard and be honest, but here he was, making a living by selling his body.  

     Max must have noticed the change in Tommy's demeanor because he asked, "Hey, you fucking alright?" Tommy shrugged. "Yeah, I'm feling this Schnapps, is this cinnamon?" Max nodded, "Yeah man. Anyway. The job. Not the best, and not the worst, either. It's not exactly the most traditional career path. Think about tact. Finesse the trick, bro." Tommy took a deep breath, "I just wish there was another way, you know? I mean, less, I dunno. I don't want to disappoint her. My mom.  Sometimes, I look at the big picture. Is this something that she'd respect?" Max placed a hand on Tommy's shoulder, "Look, Tommy. You're a grown man, and you're making a good living doing what you do. Your mom may not understand it, but as long as you're happy and safe, that's all that matters.  The money is nice, too!" 

     Tommy smiled, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders. "Thanks, Max. I appreciate that." Max grinned, "Anytime, man. Now, let's finish these drinks and hit the town. We've got clients to please, am I right, or fucking what?" Tommy laughed, feeling more confident and at ease than he had in weeks. "Maybe being a gigolo wasn't so bad after all. It's all about being a good listener. Some of these women just want someone to talk to, you know? They're lonely, and they want someone to listen to them. They get wet." Tommy nodded, taking another sip of his drink, moving on in thought. "Yeah, I get that. But what if they're boring? What if I fall asleep during their monologue?" 

     Max chuckled, "Well, then you better hope you're getting paid by the hour, my friend. But seriously, you just gotta find something interesting about them. Ask them about their hobbies, their passions, their favorite movies. You might be surprised at what you have in common." Tommy raised an eyebrow. "What if they're into some weird stuff?" Max grinned, "Oh, you mean like feet?" Tommy recoiled, "No, not like that. I mean, what if they want to do some crazy role-playing or something?" Max shrugged, "Hey, as long as it's legal and consensual; it's fair game. Just remember to always establish boundaries and communicate with your clients. And if all else fails, just fake it 'til you make it." 

     Tommy laughed, feeling a little more at ease. "Thanks, Max. You always know how to put things in perspective." Max clapped him on the back. "That's what I'm here for, man. Now, let's get another round and toast to the crazy, wild world of gigolos."

     Tommy found his way home. He did look it up online. Hmmm, "The term gigolo usually implies a man who adopts a lifestyle consisting of a number of such relationships, serially, rather than having other means of support." 

     Tommy likes to remember that, bro-serious bar talk, as the night when he was inspired toward the business side of the gigolo world.