Elf Helper

The least work was always the right choice in Madison’s mind. She decided that being an elf helper was well worth it. After all, a job that involved helping kids couldn’t end up being sketchy, right?

Upon arrival at the agreed location, Madison found herself in the center of a busy outdoor shopping area. Families were everywhere, taking their kids on holiday shopping trips to buy gifts, The foot traffic would undoubtedly keep increasing as time went on. This fact was good news. The Santa photo op relied on heavy volumes of pedestrians to make profit. The craigslist job did say that she would have the chance to earn tips.

Madison found a group of people waiting by the set. A huge Christmas throne was situated in the middle- Santa’s spot. Velvet ropes wrapped back and forth, creating a surprisingly long line que. Giant candy canes, Christmas trees, and gingerbread men were placed all around the area. She also spotted a snow-making machine unplugged near Santa’s chair. It was cute that they put on such a merry show for the kids. The holiday spirit was strong here.

“Madison, right?” one of the men standing nearby came up to her.

“Yes!” she shook his hand, “Are you Chris?”

Chris was the man she had contacted about the position. He was an middle-aged, balding man. He was slightly overweight but well-built. She guessed that he was going to be the fake Santa.

“It’s good to finally meet you. Welcome to the show!”

“Happy to be here,” she smiled, eager to make a good first impression.

“Your job is pretty easy. Help us finish setting up, then you basically stand at the front of the line and let the kids pass one at a time. Vincent’s gonna be taking in the cash.”

Her coworker for the day waved at her as he carefully positioned an oversized cardboard present by one of the Christmas trees. He was younger than Chris, and better looking. But the way he looked at her made Madison uncomfortable. There was a creepiness to him.

“Give the new girl a uniform,” Chris instructed.