Ch. 151..160

Chapter 151

Zeno was all dressed and ready to leave that night, Nicholas was waiting for him in front of his door, and the moment Zeno opened his door, Nicholas stepped back to let him out.

"Would you look at that hotness? Damn, the navy blue suit always brings out the best in you," Nicholas commented.

Zeno furrowed his brows, "I don’t buy it, spit it out, Nick, you want something," He accused.

Nicholas sighed, he’d been found out, "Oh, well, I do... you see, Cassian, he wants you to stay till morning, but you don’t have to worry, I already told him you don’t work like that, so... yeah..." He tapped his fingers together.

Zeno smirked, "Then there’s nothing to worry about; you’ve handled it just fine. Come on, let’s go; I have a rich guy to Escort," He smiled and walked toward the elevator.

Nicholas hurried and entered the elevator with Zeno, anxiously tapping his foot on the floor.

Zeno sighed, "What is the problem, Nicholas? You’re too obvious, what have you done?" He asked seriously.

Nicholas groaned in frustration, "Ugh, you see, I lied, I didn’t reject his offer, remember, we told him that we offer services till daybreak too, does he choose that package, I’m sorry, I should have checked with you before accepting his offer, but can you do ne the favor of staying till daybreak? You know how much he hates staying around his stepsister, and they’re having this family business meeting, so... he just wants you there," Nicholas explained, holding Zeno’s hand and pleading with him with his eyes.

Zeno scoffed, "I already knew that he texted me, like he always does," He frowned.

It was inappropriate to get your Escort’s number, but Cassuan got his, all thanks to the guy beside him.

Nicholas thinks he won’t figure it out, but Zeno already knows that he was the one who gave Cassian his number.

Nicholas believed that some miracle would happen and that Zeno would fall in love with Cassian. It’s been a year, and Cassian’a has been subtle about it by always making sure he booked only Zeno, and he spoke very kindly to him. Zeno knew all those signs, but he couldn’t give a shit about his feelings; it was all business.

"Do you think Cassian might be developing feelings for his Escort?" Nicholas asked as the elevator door slid open.

"That’s his business, not mine," Zeno replied and walked out of the elevator.

"We’ll see," Nicholas muttered and followed him out.

A car was already waiting for Zeno in front of his apartment, he turned and faced Nicholas, "You can stop following me now, ho back and keep Nana company, make sure she doesn’t miss me, watch whatever movie she wants with her -"

"Movie?" Nicholas was already dreading the long hours of movies he’d never chosen to watch, even as a punishment.

Zeno nodded, "As a payback for my inconvenience," He pointed to the car behind him.

Nicholas sighed, "Fine, see tomorrow, then," He said dejectedly.

Zeno smiled at him, turned, and opened the car door; he saw Nicholas secretly waving at the person inside the car before he closed the door.

"Good evening, Zeno, It’s a pleasure to see you again," Cassian greeted with a light French accent as Zeno entered beside him.

The car moved noiselessly.

"Good evening, Mr. Cassian, the pleasure is all mine," He offered Cassian a handshake, but Cassian ended up kissing the back of Zeno’s hand and gently releasing it.

Zeno was used to it by now, he was told it was a French thing, right?

Whatever, it was just a kiss on the back of the hand, not on the lips.

"I’m sorry for the inconvenience, I’m sure you received my text and Nicholas’ message?" Cassian asked, adjusting his tie around his neck.

Zeno glanced at him; Cassian was a fine man, tall, handsome with soft facile features that would charm any woman or man; his thin lips were kissable, too, and the highlight of his beauty was his shoulder-length coffee brown hair that he always packed in a low ponytail.

He looked polished and refined, welcoming and easy on the eyes, not like some people he didn’t want to remember that looked dark, dangerous, and brooding all the time.

He sighed, "It’s alright, it’s my job. After all, we do offer daybreak services, so you don’t have to apologize," He said to Cassian.

Cassian nodded, "Good to know," He picked up his phone from the leather seat beside him and handed it to Zeno.

Zeno took and checked the picture that was displayed on it.

"Who is he?" He asked as he stared at the unfamiliar man in a face cap.

"That is Luis, my stepsister’s husband," Cassian informed.

Zeno nodded slowly, "Okay, anything I should know about him?" He asked, politely returning the phone to Cassian.

Cassian took his phone, placing it back beside him.

"A lot of things for you to know about him, but what I just want to know is that he’s a dangerous man, and, like my stepsister, he hates me too because I hold the bigger share of our father’s business. I don’t mean to bore you with my family problems; I just want you to know who is who," Cassian stared at Zeno.

Zeno gave a small smile, "It’s alright, I understand," He replied.

"Alright. You just have to stay away from him, be with me till we leave the house tomorrow morning, it’ll be safer for you that way. Since everyone thinks you’re my boyfriend, Luis would want to hurt you just to get at me... I know I’m asking too much, but -"

"It’s really fine, Mr. Cassian; I want to plan ingredients on leaving your side anyways," He said with a little shrug.

A smile played on Cassian’s lips, and it wasn’t missed by Zeno.

Zeno released a quiet sigh; he knew that agreeing to okay Cassian boyfriend was dicey since he knew how Cassian really felt about him. However, if he just stopped feeling guilty for ignoring Cassian’s feelings then it’ll be alright.

But Cassian was such a sweet guy, maybe if Zeno was still open to relationships, he would have given Cassian a chance, but nah, he was over that. Business was business.

He was used to Cassian’s family drama already; it wasn’t something new to him, the power struggles and behind-the-scenes plotting.

He just had to stay away from that Luis guy, and everything would be fine; he’d never met the guy before, and he didn’t want to meet him; he wasn’t there to associate with other people.

"We’re here, sir," The chauffeur announced as he slowly drove the car into the compound with a luxurious white building that looked almost like a castle.

"Are you ready?" Cassian asked Zeno.

"Always ready," Zeno nodded.

Zeno got out of the car and met Cassian, who was waiting for him on the other side of the car.

Together, they walked toward the building.

There were men in uniform who looked like Garde Rèpublicaine standing on each side of the long stairs.

They all bowed their heads to Cassian as he walked up the stairs with Zeno.

One of them stood in front of tall doors and opened them once he saw Zeno and Cassian approaching.

"Merci, Anthony," Cassian thanked the guard and gently held Zeno’s hand in his as he walked into the house.

They walked into a semi-large hall with two spiral staircases on each side of the hall, joined together at the top.

As they climbed the stairs, Zeno already knew that he was heading in the direction of their family hall where they met for business only.

The family had different halls for different purposes, and Zeno had entered almost all of them.

Cassian’s hand tightened around Zeno’s as he reached the door and held the handle.

Zeno hated to, but he gently squeezed Cassian’s hand and said in a gentle voice, "It’s alright, I’m right here,"

He was human, after all; he hated to see someone feeling scared or insecure because of someone else, he’d been there, and it wasn’t fun, so what he did was just a humane thing to do, helping another human in the littlest way he could.

"Thank you," Cassian’s blue eyes shined as he stared at Zeno’s face.

He took a deep breath and pushed the door open.

"Ah, my son, you bring your boyfriend again?" Cassian mother ran over to him and hugged him, kissing his cheek.

"Yes, mother, you look beautiful as always," Cassian praised.

"Oh, you, you like to praise your mother a lot," She gently slapped his shoulder and turned to Zeno.

"Good evening, Mrs. Leroy," Zeno greeted.

"Oh my, do handsome," Mrs. Leroy hugged Zeno and kissed his cheek too.

"Come, come, you too, Bella’s brought her husband to join us today," She held Cassian’s hand and led him forward.

Zeno sighed; he could already feel the eyes of everyone sitting around the table on them; he knew he’d see Mr. Leroy’s disapproving look when he looked at the table.

The man didn’t approve of Cassian’s sexuality, so he wasn’t very welcoming to Zeno.

Zeno followed Cassian and Mrs. Leroy behind, he reached the table and thanked Cassain for pulling the chair out for him beside his own.

Zeno sat down, his eyes finding Luis immediately, he was about to remove his eyes and mind his business when he froze.

It couldn’t be... it was impossible...

His eyes must have deceived him.

He slowly looked beside Luis again and for sure, he hadn’t been mistaken; Sebastian sat there beside Mr. Leroy, his eyes boring holes into Zeno’s skin.

 

 

Chapter 152

Zeno was about to take his eyes away from Sebastian, but Sebastian did it before him.

Sebastian calmly removed his eyes from Zene and faced Mr. Leroy, he was so cold and unbothered, as if seeing Zeno again meant nothing to him.

Zeno gently drummed his fingers on his lap, focusing his eyes on the space before him.

It was good that way; it wasn’t as if he was expecting Sebastian to run to him and get on his one knee and apologize for breaking his heart one year ago, They were not related anymore; they were typically strangers, so there was no need for resentment.

Zeno was over him, but why was he suddenly feeling as if the large hall was closing in on him? Why was the pain from one year ago rushing into his brain and making him recall all the pain he believed he’d forgotten?

He had healed, that was sure, but why was he feeling hurt all over again the moment he saw Sebastian?

Zeno stared at the space in front of him on top of the table, his mind trying to catch up with this unexpected encounter.

Never in his life did he think he’d meet Sebastian again, especially not in his workspace.

He was going to ignore him because that was the only reasonable thing to do.

He was only human; it was only natural that he felt this way after seeing an ex... an ex he once loved. Like any other human, he was going to act normal and act like nothing was wrong.

He wasn’t going to let Sebastian bother him, he’s been fine for a year, and he will keep being fine.

He didn’t know anyone called Sebastian, he was dead to him.

"Zeno, are you alright?" Cassian’s voice asked quietly beside him.

Zeno blinked slowly, he turned his face and found Cassian staring worriedly at him.

"I’m fine," He smiled.

He was surprised to feel Cassian’s hand holding his under the table, but he couldn’t ask him to leave him because it would draw attention to them. He suddenly thought about something but killed the idea immediately.

He couldn’t do it again, he did it with Nicholas, making the poor guy believe he had feelings for him. Cassian was a very good option for that, but it would mean two things.

One, it would mean that he still gave significance to Sebastian by trying to make him believe that he was also living a good and happy life with his new partner.

Two, it would mean that he hadn’t healed. Sebastian would think that he was trying hard to move on from him by jumping into the next available relationship, which he wasn’t.

He wasn’t going to hurt Cassian, all in the name of getting back at Sebastian. He was healed, he’d moved on, he’d let go.

"Cassian, meet our new business partner, Mr. Sebastian Orion," Mr. Leroy introduced.

Cassian looked away from Zeno and faced Sebastian, "I know him, Father, everyone knows him," He replied.

"Welcome to our home, Mr. Sebastian," Cassian politely greeted, still holding himself in his polished and handsome manner.

"Thank you, Mr. Cassian," Sebastian responded with a short reply.

His voice... Zeno took a deep breath and looked away from the table. The motherfucker’s voice got more sexy, good for him, his wife would love it.

"Zeno?" Mr. Leroy called.

Zeno calmly lifted his head to look at the man; this was the first time the man was directly speaking to him.

"Yes, Mr. Leroy?" Zeno made sure his eyes didn’t move away from the man; if not, he’d be landing it on Sebastian, who once again stared at him as if he were the only human in that room.

"You came from the States, right?" Mr. Leroy questioned.

"Yes, Sir," Zeno answered, not sure where this conversation was heading.

"Awesome, that means -"

"That means you know Mr. Sebastian, right?" Bella asked from beside her mother, her red hair falling on her shoulder as she leaned in to hear Zeno’s answer.

"Don’t get me wrong, Cassian, I mean, Zeno’s just been here for a year, he must have heard about Mr. Sebastian while he was in the States," Bella pressured.

Sebastian didn’t remove his eyes from Zeno this time; he was quietly waiting for Zeno to answer the question; he wanted to know if he was going to deny knowing him.

"No, I don’t know him. I’ve never heard of him either," Zeno spoke very calmly, his eyes still staring at Mr. Leroy.

Mr. Leroy sighed, "Ah, I see... but that wasn’t what I was going to ask you, Bella must have been a little forward," He spoke to Zeno.

Zeno glanced at Cassian, giving him a doubtful look.

Cassian was also looking suspicious; he knew his father never spoke to Zeno, so why the sudden interest in him?

"Let’s eat first, darling; you can ask him later when the food is served," Mrs. Leroy announced.

"Here," Cassain elegantly carried the food from the maid’s tray and placed it in front of Zeno.

"Thank you," Zneo smiled at him.

They ate in silence for a while, and Zeno was feeling very uncomfortable. He never knew his night would turn out this way, with him sitting at the same table and dining with Senas Orion.

"As I was saying, Zeno," Mr. Leroy resumed his speech.

"Yes," Zeno replied, noticing how Luis was staring at him as if he wanted to skin him alive and find out all the information Cassain might have told him.

"I was wondering, maybe, you can help Cassian out?" Mr. Leroy wiped his mouth with a napkin before drinking his glass of water.

Zeno and Cassian subtly shared a confused look, they were both wondering what the old man was up to.

"Um, I’d love to, if it is something I can do," He answered honestly.

He wasn’t going to be a kissass and agree to something he wouldn’t be comfortable doing.

"Ah, I’m sure you can..." Mr. Leroy stared at Sebastian before looking back at Zeno.

Sebastian’s face remained passive, not caring about their conversation; he barely touched his food, too, he looked like he wanted nothing to do with everyone at the table.

"You see, Mr. Sebastian is here on business with our family, I’ve already told you about my interactions with the British, Cassian?" He asked.

Cassian slowly nodded, "Yes, Father, you did," He confirmed.

Mr. Leroy nodded, "Then you will remember how they rejected my offer, not minding that Paris is a prime location for luxury properties," He scoffed with slight resentment.

Luis nodded as if he was the person Mr. Leroy was speaking to, "Father, I’ve told you, just let Cassian handle the family business, I can handle this new project with the British and work comfortably with Mr. Sebastian. Right, Mr. Sebastian?" He asked, smiling at Sebastian.

Luis’smile soon turned awkward when he saw that Sebastian wasn’t even looking at him.

"Be quiet, Luis, Father’s still speaking," Bella softly said to her husband to cover the awkward atmosphere.

"Luis, do you know why they rejected my offer despite owning the largest real estate agency in Paris?" Mr. Leroy fired the question to Luis.

"Um..." Luis laughed awkwardly, "Ah, well, you never told me," He replied.

Mr. Leroy nodded, "I never told you because it was never any of your business. It’s Leroy’s family business, even if you were a Leroy, just like my son, Cassian, you wouldn’t have been good enough for the job, just as Cassian isn’t my best choice for the work," He explained.

Cassian would have even been offended by his father’s words, but Luis’ humbling gave him more joy, so he let his father’s insult slide.

Luis looked sheepish; he looked at Mrs. Leroy and Bella; they were both trying to avoid looking at him to make his insult less painful.

"I understand, Father..." Luis said, giving Cassian a secret look.

"Good. The British refused to work with me because they found my accent off-putting; it would be stupid to send my son, who has the same accent, to them. That’s where you come in, Zeno," Mr. Leroy gazed at Zeno.

"What does it have to do with me?" Zeno questioned.

"Technically, it has nothing to do with you, it’s supposed to be the son’s job, but like I stated earlier, accent is the problem. Mr. Sebastian here wants to open a resort for the elites, and he has offered to work with my agency for renovation and planning, but I need to hire the British for supplies," Mr. Leroy explained.

Zeno was already sensing something he wouldn’t like, "I understand your need to work with the British, Mr. Leroy, but I still fail to see where I come in," He reminded the old man.

Mr. Leroy chuckled, "It’s a favor, Zeno, and in return, I’ll grant my son the freedom to date you publicly. All you just have to do is to be Leroy’s family representative, don’t worry, I’ll pay you, too. I just need someone with a clear accent like yours, that way, you can speak with the British and Mr. Sebastian, on our behalf," He finally said.

Zeno almost laughed out loud; him? Work with Sebastian? No fucking way, whatever that would make him entangle his life with Sebastian again would be avoided, he would never put himself in that position again.

"Mr. Leroy, I understand, I truly do, but -"

"He’ll do it," Cassian interrupted Zeno, placing his hand on Zeno’s thigh.

"I would?" Zeno turned his face to Cassian and asked in a whisper.

Cassian pleaded with his eyes before turning to look at his Father and Sebastian, "Mr. Sebastian, Father, you don’t have to worry, Zeno will be glad to do it... for me, right, baby?" He boldly asked.

Zeno tapped his foot under the table; his reply could either make everything dramatic or it could end professionally and maturely.

He took a deep breath and faced Mr. Leroy, "Yes, Mr. Leroy, I’ll do it... for Cassian." Zeno didn’t miss the way Sebastian’s face scowled beside Mr. Leroy, but, was it any of his concern? No!

 

 

Chapter 153

Zeno sat on his bed, quietly thinking about what had happened in the meeting room.

Tonight was the most unexpected night of his life; Sebastian had appeared so randomly that he took him unawares.

But Zeno was thankful for something; he was thankful for Sebastian’s distance, and he was happy that Sebastian wasn’t approaching him, it would have been awkward and tense for both of them if Sebastian tried to speak to Zeno.

He stood and walked toward the opened double window, the lightweight white curtain material was gently swirling around as the wind blew it around.

Zeno always loved this room, it was both modern and natural. The window faced a large garden full of flowers carved and trimmed in the shapes of different animals.

He liked going down to the garden for the cool night breeze; thankfully, his room was positioned at the back of the house, so he wouldn’t be disturbing anyone when he was living.

Zeno grabbed his phone from the bed and left his room; he wanted to take a walk in the garden.

Cassian’s room was far away from him, no need to worry about waking him up. Zeno freely went down the long, straight stairs that led to the backyard, buttoning up his blue pajama shirt.

He reached the wooden door and gently pushed it open, thankful for the noiseless mechanism; he would have been a bother to the whole household.

"Ahh..." Zeno inhaled deeply the moment he stepped foot inside the garden.

He looked up and smiled, the moon was beautiful and bright, shining softly over the garden and gently illuminating the animal flower sculptors.

He had a favorite spot; he stared at the cute duckling flower sculpture and slowly started to walk toward it.

His thoughts went back to after the meeting, he wasn’t looking, but he also saw that Sebastian wasn’t looking as he walked out of the meeting room with Mr. Leroy.

Sebastian hadn’t even spared Zeno a single glance. Still, it wasn’t as if Zeno was looking, he just happened to catch a glimpse of the departing man.

Zeno paused in front of a lion flower sculpture and stared at the shadow cast on the ground by the moonlight; his mind lost in his unexpected involvement with Leroy’s family business.

How was he going to navigate his involvement with Sebastian? He hated this.

Cassian had apologized numerous times when he came to bis Zeno goodnight; he begged Zeno to help him out because he wanted his father’s approval regarding his sensuality so that he could finally feel free to date whoever wanted.

Zeno did not forget to remind him that this was just business between them, and Cassian, being the gentleman he was, had kissed Zeno’s hand and promised to always keep in mind that it was business between them.

Zeno sighed, "I guess my life has been too quiet for so long, nature suddenly decided to bring me an adventure... game on, then," He scoffed as he muttered to himself.

He stared at the white bench below the lion flower sculpture and shook his head; he preferred to sit under the duckling’s spread feather; it had the best fire of the mood and the coolest of winds around the garden.

Zeno sighed in satisfaction when he saw the duckling; he lowered himself on the bench with a smile on his face, enjoying the way the smooth coated wood felt against his skin.

He didn’t mind dozing off for a while, so he leaned his head back on the bench and closed his eyes, but he opened it immediately, sitting up with a frown.

Smoke.

Cigarette smoke was polluting his pure night air. Who would be put here smoking by that time of the night?

Zeno was about to stand up and search for the source of the smoke, but he didn’t have to look far... under the huge eagle flower sculpture beside the duckling, Sebastian sat quietly, smoking his cigarette while his unreadable grey eyes remained locked in on Zeno.

He seemed aloof; his white shirt was completely unbuttoned, his hair messy from the wind, and his right leg was elegantly crossed over the left one; he looked unbothered.

Zeno didn’t realize he was staring, he couldn’t get his eyes off the dangerous yet appealing man under the shade of the eagle’s wing.

It was just them, alone again after one year. Zeno was tempted, tempted to speak to him, but it wasn’t about Sebastian.

He was tempted to ask him about Ken; he missed the poor kid. Ken would be seven already, and Zeno didn’t get to stay for Ken’s sixth birthday; it was the month he had traveled out of the country, and it had been one year already, adding another year to Ken.

Zeno was dying to see him and how much he had grown.

But all that would only stay a wish in his head; he wished the boy well. He had a mother now, and he had a loving father; that was all he wished for Ken.

It was unfortunate Ken had an idiot as a Father; Zeno was so tempted to question the proud peacock why he was out here chilling while abandoning his family at home, but it was none of his business.

Zeno suddenly frowned, how was Sebastian here in Cassian’s family home? Did he leave as Zeno thought after the meeting?

He realized he’d been staring at an unmoving man and decided to give himself a break. He had just taken a step back when he felt a hand behind him.

"Who - Oh, hey," Zeno sighed when he saw Cassian behind him.

"Out for a walk as usual?" Cassian’s smooth voice asked.

Zeno slowly nodded, "Yeah... what are you doing out here?" He questioned.

Cassian slowly walked past Zeno, walking toward the eagle, "Nothing... just like you, out here thinking," He replied.

Zeno thought Cassian was going to greet Sebastian, but when he turned back again, Sebastian was nowhere to be found, he’d been distracted by Cassian and didn’t catch Sebastian’s departure.

Zeno chuckled at himself and massaged his temples; maybe he was starting to hallucinate now because he the fuck can one explain such a swift disappearance, even Batman would be shocked.

"I have gone to find you in your room, but you weren’t there; I already knew this was your favorite place, so here I am," Cassian explained.

Zeno saw him now occupying the same bench Sebastian had occupied, but he didn’t look so intimidating like Sebastian; he rather looked as gently as the wind and radiating as the moonlight. He sighed; this view was better, but the other was quite disturbing.

"Sorry about that but what did you want to tell me?" Zeno asked.

Cassian patted the space beside him, "Come sit and I’ll tell you," He called softly.

Zeno shrugged and lowered himself under the duckling’s bench. "I’m listening from over here, just say it,"

"Tomorrow morning, we’ll be going to check out the resort location with Mr. Sebastian... I know you want to go home immediately the next morning, but we’ll be quick I promise, just an in and out something. I’m not informing, I’m asking... please?" Cassian slowly tapped his feet on the soft grass floor.

Zeno almost rolled his eyes, was this how his life was starting to gently mingle with Sebastian’s?

He took a deep breath, one step at a time; he could do this. Hopefully, Sebastian wasn’t supposed to stay long on a business trip; he had a family to take care of and be present in their lives, especially the new baby.

"Sure, I can do that, as long as you get me home before twelve," Zeno replied.

"Deal," Cassian was happy and grateful to Zeno for agreeing to help him up to the length he was going.

He really wished that Zeno might have a change of heart and decide to date him for real.

***

The next morning, Zeno was sitting in Cassian’s car as they drove out of the Leroy family home. Cassian was driving by himself that morning, he said he loved driving by the day but detested it at night.

Zeno was holding a file in his hand and flipping through it as he studied the type of partnership Cassian’s family was engaging in with Sebastian and the British.

It wasn’t something complex; it was just a straightforward business.

"Mr. Sebastian is quite an early bird; one of our men informed me when I had just woken that Mr. Sebastian was already at the resort waiting for us to arrive," Cassian said, pleased by Sebastian’s good attributes.

Zeno hummed quietly, "It seems so," he replied.

No wonder he didn’t see him that morning.

Again, it wasn’t as if he was looking or searching; he just noted that he couldn’t find the mysterious tall figure that always seemed to loom around the building, Luke, some haunting ghost.

"I wonder how Mr. Sebastian managed to engage his fiancée, a man cold and unfeeling lime himself, he must have loved the woman so much to propose," Cassian wanted to make a small, casual talk with Zeno but he didn’t know that he had just ruined all of Zeno’s day by bringing that topic up.

"Yeah... he must love her so much," Zeno replied and looked out of the window, his fists clenching, and throat slowly tightening.

Did Sebastian have to come back into life just when he thought he was healed?

He wondered how he was going to do when they arrived at the resort; speaking to Sebastian was inevitable at this point; he had to grow a ball and get his work done.

He would speak to Sebastian in the same way he’d spoken to all his clients; business was business, period.

 

Chapter 154

 

Cassian drove his car into the resort, parking under a palm tree beside the building.

The beach was just a little distance away from them, and it would be a great place to relax in the evening.

"Mr. Sebastian sure knows luxury. Look how beautiful this place is," Cassian spoke as he turned off the car.

"Yeah, it’s beautiful," Zeno replied, staring out toward the beach.

"Let’s go," Cassian said and left the car.

Zeno took a deep breath before he opened the door and left the car.

He could do this.

He walked around and met Cassian, "Do you have an idea where Mr. Sebastian is?" He asked Cassian.

He wanted to hurry and go home.

He was suddenly craving his Nana’s hugs.

"That’s the building right there, it was a popular museum back in the days but it’s been left abandoned and empty for years now, let’s go, Mr. Sebastian will define in there," Cassian put his hand inside his brown pants and smiled at Zneo before walking in the direction of the old building.

Zeno sighed, "Here goes nothing," He muttered and followed Cassian behind.

The building was brown, a two-storey building with an archaic design. He wondered what could have possibly attracted Sebastian to such an eyesore of a building.

Well, that’s why he contacted the Leroy’s; they provide the best renovations in the country; Zeno knew that this building would be a masterpiece once it was done.

"Careful, Zeno, those stairs are creaky," Cassian cautioned gently as he stood in front of the door, waiting for Zeno.

Zeno looked down and saw that he would have truly fixed his legs right through the wooden stairs if he stepped on them.

He directly climbed the front deck, "Thank you, would have been bleeding by now," He chuckled.

"You’re alright," Cassian smirked at him and pointed to the door.

"Ready to speak to those high-end stuck-up Brits?" Cassian asked lowly.

Zeno nodded with a smile, "Sure," He replied.

They walked through the large metal door and entered into a very dusty space. The hall was empty, full of cobwebs and unidentified broken furniture.

"This place is going to require a fortune," Cassian shook his head.

"He can manage," Zeno said.

"I hear voices behind that door, I guess that’s where they are," Cassian pointed to another door at the end of the large hall.

As they walked over to the door, Zeno noticed small holes in the wooden floor, likely where display cases had once been anchored.

Zeno walked forward and gently pushed the door open, but he froze the moment his eyes found who never expected to see.

"Zeno!!!" Ken’s voice echoed through the empty hall, alerting his engaged father about Zeno’s arrival.

Zeno stood frozen; he didn’t know how to react, but when he saw the now-taller boy running toward him, he knew he had to brace himself, or he’d be pushed to the floor like he used to.

"Zeno!" Ken jumped from a distance and wrapped his hands around Zeno’s neck, hugging him tightly.

Zeno couldn’t believe who he was holding in his arms; he tightened his arms around Ken, smiling.

They didn’t speak; Zeno just let the boy hug him, and he returned the gesture; he’d missed Ken so much, and he always thought of the day he’d see him again; he never knew it would be very soon.

He was aware of the way Cassian, Sebastian’s guest, and Sebastian were staring at them, but he didn’t care, fuck business; Ken was the only human he wouldn’t apply his stupid ’business is business’ rule too. He’d break those rules and get all emotional with Ken.

"I miss you, Zeno, you never called, and you never came back," Ken raised his face from Zeno’s shoulder and stared at Zeno, his eyes taking I’m every part of Zeno’s face, happy he saw Zeno again.

Zeno looked at Ken’s handsome face and saw his eyes were brimmed with tears. He felt his own tears threatening to push through, but he held it in for Ken.

"I’m sorry about that; I was planning to come see you soon; I just got caught up with things," Zeno replied, hoping the boy believed him.

"It’s okay. You’re an adult, and adults are quite busy," Ken replied, touching Zeno’s jaw as if he were trying to recall how it used to feel in his hands.

"You’ve grown so big, Ken; I can barely hold you; working out already?" He asked with a heart-melting smile.

Ken nodded, "Yes, boxing, like you," He hugged Zeno around the neck again.

Zeno’s heart melted away with that sweet hug; he felt proud and happy for Ken, and his heart warmed with the knowledge that Ken wanted to be like him.

"Hi, Ken, I’m Cassian," Cassian introduced himself since he was still standing behind Zeno and would see the boy’s happy face.

Cassain was confused, but he wasn’t going to ask any questions now; he would wait till they were done with their clients so that he could personally ask Zeno his many questions.

Zeno had said he’d never met Sebastian, how come he was familiar with his son?

"Hi, Cassain," Ken replied.

"Can I drop you you now?" Zeno asked softly.

Ken reluctantly nodded, "Okay," He said.

"Hi," Cassian met Ken and offered him a handshake.

"My name is Kenneth Orion, pleased to meet you, Cassian," Ken introduced as he shook Cassian’s hand.

Zeno smiled, noticing how big and smart Ken had become.

"Nice to meet you, Ken, I can call you that, right?" Cassian asked.

Ken nodded.

He faced Zeno and grabbed his hand, "Come, Daddy is right here." He dragged Zeno.

"Daddy! Look, it’s Zeno, I found him!" Ken announced as he walked over to his father.

’Shit,’ Zeno thought.

Sebastian’s eyes haven’t left Zeno from the moment he opened the door, he even saw him before Ken did.

However, he wasn’t going to share in his son’s excitement.

Zeno stopped in front of Sebastian and a British man in a white suit, "Good morning, Mr. Sebastian, I believe this our partner?" He rather offered a handshake to the man beside Sebastian.

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Zeno. I’m Gerald; Sebastian was just telling me about you; I’m more than happy to work with you on behalf of Leroy’s partnership," The man welcomed.

Zeno glanced at Sebastian; he wasn’t going to ask the man what Sebastian was saying about; it was probably just business, and he really didn’t want to know.

"Pleasure to meet you, Gerald, I’m ready to hear all about your plans. This is Cassian Leroy, first and only son of the Leroy family," Zeno introduced.

"Nic to meet you, Mr. Gerald," Cassain greeted politely.

"Nice to meet you, Cassian," Gerald shook Cassian’s hand.

"Dad?" Ken tapped Sebastian’s arm.

Sebastian looked down at him, raising a brow at his son, "I’m working, Kenneth-"

"But, Dad, Zeno is right here," He pointed at Zeno, who was pretending as if he was listening to their conversation as he spoke to Gerald.

"Kenneth," Sebastian called; a warning underlying his tone.

Ken saw the look on his Father’s face and went quiet, walking closer to Zeno and holding his hand again.

Zeno glanced at the boy and gave him an acknowledging smile before turning to listen to what Gerald was saying.

Sebastian sighed, his fingers tightening slightly at his sides. Zeno had changed; he hadn’t spared him a glance, or spoken to him, his cold indifference cutting deeper than any words could.

Zeno hated him, and he could guess why; he had caused it all; he chose this path, knowing it would turn out this way. That was why he was keeping his distance.

He wasn’t going to pretend as if he and Zeno parted on the best of terms and tried to act all free and comfortable around him; he wasn’t. But why was he unable to look away? To stay away...

He never expected to see Zeno last night at the Leroy family house. He’d been punched in the gut the moment he saw him together with Cassian, and he couldn’t even explain how he felt when Mrs. Leroy called Zeno Cassian’s boyfriend.

How long have they been dating? Did Zeno find someone else the moment he moved to Paris?

It was for the best, at least Cassian wouldn’t ask him to hide his relationship with him from people, just like he had done.

It was none of his business; Zeno found his happiness, and that was awesome.

"Mr. Sebastian?" Gerald called.

Sebastian blinked back to reality and looked at him; he realized that everyone was staring at him, except Zeno, of course. He was a plague Zeno wanted to avoid by all means.

"Did you say something to me?" He asked Gerald.

"The blueprint, Dad," Ken facepalmed, sighing.

Zeno smiled at his cute yet naughty gesture, he loved that Ken was giving Sebastian some trouble, he hoped he’d give him a heart attack someday, not to kill him, but very close to death, he still needed to stay alive and take care of his family, but a heart attack once in a while would be nice.

"Let’s take a look around the building first; I’ll hand it to you once we’re leaving," Sebastian spoke, his voice perfectly smooth.

 

Chapter 155

Zeno held Ken’s hand as he walked behind Sebastian and Gerald.

He really had no business here, he was just here to speak to Gerald on behalf of the Leroy family, but from the way he saw it, it seemed like he was going to be involved in this renovation until the end; Gerald didn’t look like he was ready to speak to Cassian at all, and he was starting to believe that it wasn’t really about the accent, maybe it some sort of past business rivalry or something.

He’d still find out later.

"That stairs looks weak," Ken tugged Zeno’s hand, causing him to pause.

Zeno looked at the stairs Sebastian and Gerald were climbing, old and creaky, but it looked like they could still hold a little weight.

Zeno faced Ken, "It does look weak, but see? Two huge adults walked on it, it could hold your weight just fine if you don’t stump on it," He tried to convince Ken.

Ken looked, and when he saw that his father was out of sight, he smiled at Zeno, "I know they can hold my weight; I just didn’t want us to follow them," he shrugged.

Zeno widened his eyes, glancing at Cassian beside him before he returned his shocked gaze to Ken, "Ken," He called quietly.

He never Ken was this mischievous, he didn’t know whether to chastise him or to laugh.

"Ken, you know we’re working, right?" Zeno asked, stepping little smile playing on his lips.

Ken nodded, "But I don’t want to go up there; the place is so old and is allergic to dust," Ken faked a sneeze, looking up at Zeno and Cassian.

Zeno couldn’t hold his little laugh, "Mastering the art of deception, huh?" Zeno started to lead Ken away from the stairs.

Ken shrugged, placing his finger on his lips and glancing at Cassian to check if he heard what Zeno had said.

"Oh, Kenneth, you’re something," Zeno chuckled.

"You can’t the blame boy; business can be quite boring, am I right, Mr. Kenneth?" Cassian walked with them, standing beside Ken.

"Most definitely, I’d rather be a world champion boxer," Ken replied.

"You can be whatever you want to be," Zeno patted his head.

He controlled how he interacted with Ken in front of Cassian so that Cassian wouldn’t find out about their history.

"The boy really takes you as a role model, takes such a strong bond to achieve that," Cassian pointed out.

Zeno hummed, "Yeah, it does," He smiled.

Ken never let go of Zeno’s hand, the boy was scared of letting go and never seeing Zeno for another year, or worse, forever.

"Can I ask you something?" Ken looked at Zeno with all seriousness.

’Damn it, how am I supposed to say no? I don’t want him asking implicating questions in front of Cassian,’ Zeno debated wanting him.

He always had in mind d that this moment would come. Ken was inquisitive, and he would have wanted to know why he left, but he couldn’t answer his questions in front of Cassian; even alone, he still wouldn’t be able to answer his questions; Ken was too small to understand.

"What do you want to ask, Ken?" Zeno asked.

Ken was about to speak when a voice called him, "Ken, I’ve been looking everywhere for you, What the eff?" Andre halted abruptly as he stared at Zeno.

Zeno couldn’t react; he was starting to sense that something was up; why was Andre here, too?

"Zeno! Ken, you found Zeno?" Andre questioned and hurried over to hug Zeno, who only patted his back because he believed that all the bodyguards had supported Ida in blackmailing him, after all, no one stopped Ida when he came to fight him or when he labeled him a traitor.

"Hello, Mr. Cassian," Andre greeted Cassian.

"You know me?" Cassian asked.

"Of course, my boss is working with you, I have to know you," Andre replied.

"That makes sense," Cassin smiled.

"Damn, Zeno, it’s been ages, how-"

"Andre?" Sebastian called from the top of the stairs, stopping him from finishing his words.

"Come on, Ken, it’s time to go," He held Ken but Ken wouldn’t move.

Ken looked at Zeno for help, "Zeno, will I see you again?" He asked.

Zeno smiled at him, "Sure, we’re working together after all; you can always come with your father; how about that?" He replied.

"He wouldn’t let me," Ken glanced at Sebastian.

Zeno sighed, lowering himself to Ken’s height, "Then just Andre to bring you to me whenever you want, deal?" He hoped Ken would accept the offer, he didn’t want it to get to the extent where he’d be asked to directly ask Sebastian to let Ken come see him when he wanted.

He didn’t want Sebastian to find out about his home, club, or gym. The further away he was, the better it was for both of them.

"Okay, promise?" Ken narrowed his eyes at Zeno.

Zeno nodded, "Promise," He replied.

Ken removed his hand from Andre and hugged Zeno again, "I love you," He whispered to Zeno.

If Zeno was butter, he would have melted away from the warmth he felt from Ken’s words.

"Damn it, Ken, don’t be like this, I’ll see you around, buddy," He patted the boy’s back.

Ken smiled brightly, "Bye," He waved to Zeno before ignoring Andre and walking out of the hall.

"See you," Andre nodded at Zeno before following Ken behind.

"Mr. Cassian, please get your representative to come and explain a few things to Gerald," Sebastian said and walked away.

Zeno scoffed quietly, ’Arrogant bastard,’ he cursed Sebastian in his head.

Cassian nodded, "I apologize once again for the inconvenience, Zeno," He said to Zeno.

Zeno shook his head, "You know, it’s not really an inconvenience, you know me, I would have been in my gym boxing someone down, so it’s not as if you’re depriving me of my precious sleep; I rarely home, plus, I love diversity. Who knows, I might really want to join your line of business. Let’s go," he smirked and walked up the stairs.

He wasn’t really bothered; he just took this as one of his adventures in Paris; if he could just overlook Sebastian, then he would find that this was an exciting job. Seeing Ken again had also somehow managed to lift some kind of weight off of him.

"Careful with the stairs," Cassian called from behind.

Zeno only nodded and kept climbing. He reached the top and looked around to search for where Sebastian and Geral had entered.

"It’s right there," Cassian held Zeno’s hand and led him toward a long passage.

They entered the first door that was left open. Zeno found Sebastian standing beside a broken window, looking out of it with his back to them.

"Zeno, just a little question, does Mr. Leroy intend on purchasing all his renovating materials from us? There are quite a few rooms on this floor that weren’t included in the lists he forwarded to me and I’m afraid the funds he’d sent won’t be enough to cover them," Geral said to Zeno.

Zeno glanced around the room, noticing the broken shards of mirrors on the floor, he wondered what this room was used for in the past.

"It must have been a minor miscalculation on our path. It’ll be rectified before the end of the day, and the rest of the funds will be sent to you, right, Cassian?" He turned to look at Cassisn.

"Yes, Mr. Gerald, it will be taken care of, you don’t have to worry about it," Cassian promises.

Gerald didn’t look convinced, "That’s what I was told last time, Cassian," He replied.

Cassian glanced at Zeno before smiling at Gerald, "This time is different, I promise,"

"How about this? Give Mr. Leroy a call and tell him the situation; it will make everything easier. Everyone is cooperating," Zeno suggested to Cassian.

"Great idea, give a second, Gentlemen," Cassian smirked at Gerald again before leaving the room.

"Excuse me," Gerald said and followed Cassian out of the room but it didn’t seem as if he wanted to eavesdrop on Cassian’s call.

Zeno was left alone in the room with Sebastian, who was still staring out of the window. He quietly walked over to the other side of the room and looked out of the other windows.

His phone suddenly rang and he immediately answered it when he saw Nicholas’ name, "Hi," He didn’t want Sebastian to know who he was speaking to.

He had a lot of things to tell Nicholas, but he couldn’t say them here; he listened to Nicholas quietly and gently dismissed him, "I understand; I’ll be back in less than an hour, I promise," He said, and ended the call.

"Cassian, huh?" Sebastian’s voice spoke behind Zeno, startling him.

Zeno frowned and quickly turned to face Sebastian; he was surprised to find him behind him; when did he get here, why was he here, and why was he even speaking to him?

He forced his eyes to look away from Sebastian as he subtly shifted away from him, cursing his heart racing; he fixed his hands in his pocket, not trusting them to be steady as he faced Sebastian.

He didn’t want Sebastian to think he still had the slightest effect on him.

When he was sure there was enough space between them, he faced Sebastian and asked, "What did you say, Mr. Sebastian?" His voice was steady and professional.

Sebastian’s face was unreadable, he pinned Zeno with his unblinking gaze, shamelessly and openly staring at him, "You’re daring Cassian now?" He asked calmly, tilting his head to the side ever so slightly.

Zeno frowned; he must have misheard or imagined; he stared at Sebastian as if he’d suddenly grown ten heads, "It’ll be great to keep the conversation one hundred percent on the business, Mr. Sebastian; it’s unprofessional to ask such a personal question. Do feel free to ask about anything concerning the project; I’ll be more than willing to provide you with the best answers," He even managed a forced smile after his speech.

Zeno wanted to be anything but professional; he was fuming! How dare he?

What the fuck made Sebastian think he could ask him such a dumb question? He wanted to scream out all the profanities he knew at Sebastian but he just gave Sebastian a polite nod and walked out of the room.

Sebastian balled his fists, his jaws clenched. He never in his life imagined that the person who once sought his attention and love would be colder than ice toward him.

It struck a sensitive nerve inside him, and for some reason, he wanted to break whatever relationship it was between Zeno and Cassian.

He smirked, slowly but surely; he’ll get what he wanted, he didn’t make plans for nothing.

 

Chapter 156

Zeno immediately dragged Nicholas over to his apartment the moment he returned.

He didn’t want to discuss Sebastian where Nana might hear; she still didn’t know about his past with Sebastian.

"Ouch, ouch, chill, man, are you trying to choke them to death?" Nicholas dramatically fell on the couch as Zeno released him inside his living room.

Zeno glared at him, "Tell me you’re not aware of Sebastian’s presence in Paris," He dared.

Nicholas frowned and sat up, he had definitely missed something.

"What do you mean, Sebastian’s presence?" He asked cautiously.

Why was Zeno speaking about Sebastian after a year of not mentioning anything about him?

Could it be that he ean into Sebastian? But how? Ezra had said that Sebastian wasn’t coming to their area, how did Zeno end up seeing him?

"Don’t play dumb with me, Nick, you knew Sebastian was going to be at Cassian’s family house, right?" Zeno questioned angrily.

Nicholas was more than confused, but he wasn’t innocent after all, "Calm down, Zeno. I admit I did know he’d be in Paris -"

"I knew it!" Zeno snapped his finger and pinned at Nicholas.

Nicholas sighed and gently pushed Zeno’s hand out of his face. "No, Zeno, I know what you’re thinking. You think I’ve kept contact with Sebastian and Ezra all this while and finally decided to tell them about our location, right?" He looked at Zeno.

Zeno shrugged, "Well then, tell me what I should think, then," He replied.

"I’ve seen you hurt, Zeno, and don’t forget, I still do love you more than just a friend; even though I’ve accepted the fact that we can never be more, it doesn’t mean I’ve stopped caring for you just as much. I’d never hurt you, Zeno. Sebastian hurt you and I know that even though you never speak about it, you’re still hurting, so why would I keep contact with someone who hurt the person I love? Why would I invite him over? To come and continue his torment on you? I never invited him, Zeno; he came on his own," Nicholas stood from the couch and faced Zeno.

"I’m guilty of not telling you about Ezra’s message. I don’t know how he got my new number, but he reached out to me and said that Sebastian knew about my club and was coming over to my club for business. I wanted to tell you, but he texted me again and said he had mistaken the location. Sebastian wasn’t coming to my club; he was going somewhere else, and that’s why I decided not to tell you. What’s the use of mentioning his name to you if he’s not coming? I believed there was no need to remind you of him since you weren’t going to see him anymore, and you’re no longer interested in him," He held Zeno’s hand.

"I’m sorry for allowing myself to make decisions for you; at least, if I had told you, at least, it would have prepared your mind to see him sometime and someplace," Nicholas moved closer to Zeno.

"It’s alright, you did nothing wrong. You were just trying to be a good friend..." Zeno paused when he noticed Nicholas’ face getting close to his.

He held back his laughter, placed his finger on Nicholas’ forehead, and easily pushed down on the couch, "What do you think you’re doing?" Zeno asked, giving Nicholas a taunting look.

Nicholas sighed and relaxed on the couch, "Get lost; that would have been the perfect moment for our love story. Go away, let me mourn in peace," He covered his face with his hands.

Zeno chuckled, "Instead of searching for love where it doesn’t exist, why not try and find out how Ezra got your new contact. And Sebastian, too; I don’t believe that bastard came here just for business," He said.

"Mm, so you think he came to get you laid -"

"Shut up, Nick, I’m being serious here. He can’t be here because of me, that’s very dumb of him because I don’t know what he’d be expecting from me," Zeno scowled.

"Right, it’s suspicious,"

"I’m going to sleep, I’ve got work to do tonight," Zeno turned to walk out of the house.

"Not even a ’Thank you for playing with my Nana while I was gone?’" Nicholas called after Zeno.

Zeno paused, "Thank you," He smiled at Nicholas before leaving the apartment.

***

"Early as always?" Luke asked as Zeno walked out from the door beside the bar.

"Yeah, heard your girlfriend is due next week; you need to be around more often," Zeno walked inside the bar, picked up a glass, and started to wipe it with a clean cloth.

Luke stared at him in disbelief, "Do you mean -"

"Yeah, man, go home, I got you," Zeno nodded in confirmation.

Luke gave Zeno a side hug, "Thanks, man, I appreciate it," He said and quickly hurried out of the bar.

Zeno knew that Luke’s girlfriend was pregnant, everyone knew, she didn’t stop coming to the club just until a week ago because she was getting very heavy. He knew that Luke wished he could spend all his time with her so he was helping him out in the littlest way he could.

He was two hours early, and for some reason, he wasn’t entertained by what was happening around the club like he used to be, he had just come in early to escape the relentless mental storm that raged within him.

Nicholas didn’t even know he was gone.

People came, and he served, feeling a bit alone for the first time in a year.

He loved his life, no doubt, but seeing Sebastian was taking its toll on him, he wasn’t mentally prepared for that abrupt encounter.

"Zeno, what the hell?" Nicholas marched forward and slammed his hand in front of Zeno, who was absent-minded wiping a glass.

"What happened?" Zeno asked with no interest.

"You left," Nicholas pointed out.

"I left," Zeno repeated.

Nicholas groaned in frustration.

"Zeno you left without telling me, without Nana! She almost didn’t let me leave," He complained.

"But you’re here now, quit complaining," Zeno replied.

Nicholas was about to say something when his phone rang, "You’re being rude, Zeno, and we’re not over this conversation yet," He pointed at Zeno before answering his call and walking out of the loud club.

Zeno sighed, "I was indeed rude," He shrugged.

"Hey, you look drained tonight, sick?" A young man in a white shirt and a fresh buzz cut placed his arm on the countertop.

Zeno smiled, "I’m good. What would you like, Willow?" He questioned the guy, already taking out a bottle from the shelf.

Willow chuckled, "You already know," He pointed at the bottle in Zeno’s hand.

Zeno smirked, pouring the drink into the shot glass.

"Here," He pushed the glass to Willow.

"Thank you," Willow said and carried his drink toward the dance floor.

Willow was a regular; he never missed a night of clubbing and changing men more often than one changed his underwear.

Zeno had never seen him with the same man twice, like right now, he was dancing sensually with a twink, and Zeno knew that he went home with them each night. It surprised him how people actually had the spirit and mind to bed more than two people in a year.

But in Willow’s case, it was a man per day; that’s 365 men in a year...

"Damn, how many men in three years?" Zeno was amusing himself when he saw a lady come up on the other side of the bar.

"Focus, Zeno," He muttered and walked over to her.

"What would you -"

"Oh, excuse me, I’ll be right back," The girl rushed into the dance floor, leaving Zeno confused.

Did she just realize she’d not had enough dancing?

However, he soon saw her coming back with a broad smile on her face, but Zeno never expected to see her dragging a man back with her.

And that man was no other than Sebastian Orion.

"Fuck my life," Zeno muttered under his breath.

"Ah, yes, he knows what I like to drink; I just drink; I’m not familiar with the names," She giggled.

Zeno clenched his fists under the counter, his patience was once again tested that night.

Why was Sebastian here again?

He could feel his eyes on him, and he knew he couldn’t escape talking to him tonight; he was a customer, and customers were always right.

He slowly nodded at the girl, "Then I’ll ask him," He smiled at her.

His eyes avoided looking down at Sebastian’s unbuttoned black shirt; he noticed how Sebastian had also left his hair to grow a little bit longer; his body looked like the only place he’d been this last year was the gym.

’Get a grip, Zeno,’ He cautioned himself.

The man was a certified cheat; what was he doing in a club with another woman when his wife was at home, nursing a baby alone?

He wanted nothing with a man like Sebastian.

"What would you like to order?" Zeno asked, maintaining a brief eye contact.

Sebastian’s lips curled up a slight smirk, "You know what I like, Zeno," He replied, his eyes sparkling with a dark mischief.

 

Chapter 157

Zeno slowly turned to the lady beside Sebastian, "I’m sorry, Ma’am, I can’t serve you any drink, he left me with no information," He said and calmly moved over to the next customer beside the lady.

"Sebastian, what are you doing?" Zeno heard the lady ask Sebastian.

It was none of his business; his job was to serve them whenever they were ready, not to indulge in some stupid conversation.

Zeno had just finished serving the latest customer, successfully ignoring Sebastian and his girlfriend when someone sneaked up behind him, hugging him from behind.

"Boo!" Baby peered her head out from Zeno’s shoulder.

Zeno turned his head and stared at Baby, a smile tainting his lips.

"Baby, you’re sneaking off work again," Zeno gently held her hand and brought her out from behind him.

"Well, you owe me a kiss, remember?" She whispered.

Sebastian’s attention was completely placed on Zeno, from the moment he heard Zeno call someone ’Baby’

’Who the fuck was she?’ Sebastian battled internally.

He said something to the lady beside him before shifting so he sat on the stool in front of Zeno.

"You need to redeem the kiss right now?" Zeno asked Baby, not thinking she would agree.

"Yes, I did slap that bastard at the gym, so I need my kiss now," She winked at him.

"I couldn’t concentrate while I attended the tables; I need to do it and get it off my head; it’s distracting me," Baby confessed, caressing Zeno’s cheek.

"Here?" Zeno asked.

Baby shrugged, "No one cares, I finally get to kiss you, I’m not missing my chance, handsome,"

"I need a Martini," Sebastian called; he didn’t like the way the girl had her hands all over Zeno; he might be over with Zeno, but he just couldn’t stand the idea of someone touching him.

Zeno heard Sebastian’s voice and sighed; he finally decided to order like a normal person; he was making his night so not fun.

"Fine, you’ll get your kiss after I give that man over there his Martini," Zeno promised.

Baby smiled, "I’ll wait, go ahead," She gave him a seductive look and folded her arms, her breasts pressing up by the action, her revealing shirt wasn’t helping either.

Zeno shook his head at her and turned to pour the drink for Sebastian.

’What the fuck are you staring at?’ Zeno mentally rolled his eyes.

He felt his skin prickling from the way Sebastian was leering at him but he focused on pouring him the drink.

"Here’s your drink, enjoy," He shifted the drink to Sebastian and was shocked when he felt Sebastian hold his hand together with the glass.

Zeno’s brain froze, he was about to raise his head to Sebastian when Baby suddenly grabbed his head toward her and kissed his lips.

"Better than I imagined," She whispered into his ear before running out of the bar.

Sebastian’s hand immediately left Zeno’s and the sound of a glass shattering on the floor was heard.

Zeno was double-thunderstruck.

He was left wide-eyed.

He had just been trying to understand why he felt Sebastian’s hand on his when his face was suddenly whisked around and kissed.

Sebastian had definitely seen that hence his immediate withdrawal of his hand from Zeno’s.

Zeno forced himself out of his shock state and slowly turned to Sebastian, who was now looking murderously at him.

Zeno raised a brow at him, "You break, you pay, Mr." He walked away from Sebastian and called a cleaner, who quickly cleared the mess.

Zeno walked back and saw the lady hugging Sebastian’s arm while she spoke to him.

"Are you okay? What happened? Do you need us to go home?" She asked worriedly.

Sebastian didn’t respond; he simply shook his head at her, removed his hand from hers, and walked away.

Zeno scoffed.

"Dramatic," He went back to serving customers.

He didn’t owe Sebastian any fucking thing. Kissing Baby wasn’t planned, but to hell with him if he’s offended by that.

Sebastian had lost the right to get angry over Zeno’s interaction with other people a year ago, and so did Zeno.

They owed each other nothing; what were all these unspoken feelings of betrayal and longing?

Zeno couldn’t deal with it at this point in his life.

He kissed Baby and he wasn’t apologetic about that; Sebastian could go hug a wet naked wire for all he cared.

He was one to be judgy after leaving his wife and children at home to be out here with some hot chick.

Zeno was really starting to imagine punching Sebastian’s face to a pulp, that would really make him feel ecstatic!

"Zeno," Nicholas returned with a young man beside him.

’Damn,’ Zeno thought as he stared at the man.

For the first time in a year, Zeno saw someone he was attracted to.

Something told him that this man was trouble.

He was a walking sex appeal.

Short hair, tanned skin, stylish.

Zeno could see a rune tattoo peeking out from his buttoned collar. His face was void of emotions, and by good lords,, his eyes were magnetically green, like the dark forest green.

His back pants and fitted back shirt looked both hot and professional, he looked like he had just left an office, but Zeno knew there was nothing professional about that man.

His looks screamed danger, maybe, just maybe, a kind of danger Zeno was seeking.

"Zeno," Nicholas called again, dragging Zeno back to reality.

"Nicholas, how may I help you?" He cleared his throat, forcing himself to focus on work.

"This is my friend, Leon, Leon, this is also my friend, Zeno," Nicholas introduced.

Leon’s eyes locked in on Zeno; it was calm, but there was something dangerous about his stare, and at that moment, Zeno knew that Leon was attracted to him too; it was the way Leon stared at every part of Zeno’s face.

"Nice to meet you, Zeno," Leon stretched out his hand to Zeno.

Zeno bit the insides of his cheek; Leon’s voice was fucking deep, the kind of voice you’d want to hear beside your ear when you...

"Um, nice to meet you, too," Zeno forced himself to respond, embarrassed by his thoughts.

He shook Leon’s hand and wasn’t surprised when he kissed the back of his hands.

"I’ll have whatever you serve, Zeno," Leon said as he locked his eyes on Zeno’s, slowly releasing his hand.

"Okay..." Zeno replied and slowly turned away, not missing the weird way Nicholas was staring at him.

He was surprised to see Sebastian back at his spot with his girlfriend; he had thought he had gone home. Why was he back? Couldn’t he just take a hike?

He mixed the strongest drinks, just for the fun of it; after all, Leon had said he’d drink whatever he served.

He wanted to see how well the sexy man could hold his liquor.

Ignoring Sebastian, he gently placed the drink in front of Leon.

"Here’s your drink," Zeno said.

"Thank you," Leon picked up the game but didn’t drink it; he slowly unbuttoned the first two buttons of his shirt, and a very un-spottable smirk lifted his lips as he saw Zeno staring.

Zeno couldn’t help stating the now-exposed tattoo that started from above his collarbone to the lower edge of the collarbone.

Maybe this is how Willow saw the different men he took home each night, if it were so, Zeno could shamelessly see himself joining that boat.

He wouldn’t fool himself with love; he would just be out to have fun; he could never risk falling in love again; the jerk who broke his heart was right there, staring at him.

"Nicholas, can your friend join us tonight, maybe we can become mutual friends," Leon suggested, drinking his shit in one go without blinking.

"Thank you," He placed the drink in front of Zeno.

"You’re welcome...." Zeno blinked at glanced at Nicholas.

"Ah, well, that depends on him. Zeno, for you want to sit with us for a while? Morgan is here already," Nicholas pointed at the tomboyish girl walking toward Zeno.

Zeno shrugged, "I don’t m-"

"I need another Martini," Sebastian cut Zeno’s reply off, shifting closer to stand beside Leon.

Nicholas and Leon turned to look at Sebastian in shock; Leon had his expression in better control than Nicholas, who had his mouth opened in shock.

"Long time no see, Sebastian," Leon offered Sebastian a handshake.

’Damn it, another one of his friends, there goes my good my time,’ Zeno thought sorrowfully.

He was never going to get down with anyone related to Sebastian; as long as the person was on talking terms with him, he’d avoid any kind of personal relationship with that person; that was his policy: no dating or messing with exes friends, or acquaintances.

If it was over between them, it had to be over a hundred percent.

Zeno saw how Sebastian stared at Leon’s hand in disdain before he reluctantly shook it briefly and immediately turned to him.

"I need another drink, Bartender, I’ve got college friends to catch up with," Sebastian gave Zeno a smile.

That smile was loaded with unspoken words, words that might probably cause trouble if ever released... trouble for Zeno’s heart.

 

Chapter 158

Zeno was walking through the dance floor, his eyes locked on the booth he was heading to.

Sebastian was the one who chose the corner to sit in; he had gone to the last, darkest part of the club, sitting and spending with the darkness.

He had noticed the secret look Leon and Nicholas had when they followed Sebastian behind.

As he reached the booth, he could see the cherry tip of Sebastian’s cigarette glowing in the dimly lit booth, he frowned.

He thought Sebastian had stopped smoking, what was this habit of constant smoking?

"Zeno, can I talk to you for a second?" Nicholas met him before he could reach the booth.

Zeno looked past Nicholas’ shoulder and saw Leon calmly drumming his finger on the table while Sebastian looked aloof as he dragged in his cigarette.

Zeno frowned and looked away from him; he could smoke all he wanted, but he didn’t care.

"Now?" Zeno asked Nicholas.

Nicholas nodded.

He followed Nicholas to another space, curious to know what he wanted to say.

"What’s up?" Zeno asked.

"You know I didn’t invite Sebastian here, right?" Nicholas questioned.

Zeno sighed, "Chill, Nick, I know. The guy’s on his own agenda... we don’t have to pay him any attention," He scoffed.

Nicholas slowly nodded, "Alright... Um, as he said, we did attend the same college with Leon, but Leon was more of my friend; he didn’t really associate with Sebastian and Ezra, so if you notice any tension between those two, just overlook it; it’s their normal way of association," He advised.

"I got it, I wasn’t planning on speaking to him... I’m rather interested in getting to know your mysterious friend," Zeno smiled.

"Don’t tell me you’re attracted to him? I’d be offended, what about me? I’ve been by your side through thick and -"

"Thin. Yeah, I know. Now let’s get back to the table and see what Mr. Hot and Handsome has to say," Zeno left Nicholas and walked back to the table.

Nicholas sighed, hoping the night ended well, he could feel that Sebastian was up to something not good.

He wished Ezra would just reply to his text and explain to him why he lied about Sebastian, not knowing about his club; he was really pushed by Ezra.

He hadn’t said a word to Sebastian, and he wasn’t planning to; his friendship with him ended after he left his house with Zeno that day he broke up with Zeno.

He took a deep breath and walked back to the table.

"You can sit here if you don’t mind," Leon gently stood and stepped aside, allowing Zeno to go in and sit on the leather bench chair.

"Thank you," Zeno smiled at him, feeling unconscious by the way Sebastian was looking at him.

Leon sat beside Zeno, pushing a glass of wine in front of him, "You drink?" Leon questioned gently.

Zeno nodded, "A little," He took the glass but didn’t drink it.

Leon nodded, "It’s okay, I like guys who cut down their liquor intake," Leon’s voice was low.

Zeno cleared his throat.

Leon was totally ignoring Sebastian, making the situation more awkward. Sebastian didn’t look fazed, he was casually blowing his smoke, his legs crossed.

"Nicholas told me you went to the same college, you both must be good friends," Zeno mentioned, placing his hand on the table.

"Yeah, we did. With Sebastian, too..." He glanced at Sebastian, "But I’m sure you’ve noticed, I don’t quite flow with Mr. Orion over here," He smirked at Sebastian.

’Damn, he direct too,’ Zeno thought quietly.

Zeno glanced at Sebastian and so him looking uninterested.

"Yeah... Nick mentioned it," Zeno slowly shrugged.

"So, do you just work here, or do you have something else you’re doing? I can actually get you a better job if you want it," Leon slowly shifted closer to Zeno, his eyes taking him in.

Sebastian suddenly placed his cigarette on the ashtray on top of the table and placed his elbows on the table, leaning in.

"Are you looking down on his job?" Sebastian questioned.

Zeno frowned, looking at Sebastian in disagreement; why was he talking on his behalf?

"I-"

"You don’t have to reply to him, Zeno; speak to me... just pretend he isn’t here," Leon’s hand gently covered Zeno’s hand on top of the table, his other hand sensually rubbing against his rune tattoo.

Zeno was surprised at Leon’s forwardness, but his eyes got locked on his tattoo, he was curious to know what it meant.

"Your tattoo, what does it mean?" Zeno asked, ignoring Sebastian for real.

Leon chuckled and turned his body so his tattoo faced Zeno, "You want to touch it?" He questioned, already raising Zeno’s hand to his neck before Zeno would refuse.

Zeno gulped the moment his hand touched Leon’s neck...what was this open seduction?

He slowly withdrew his hand, wishing for control, if Leon behaved this way toward him, he wouldn’t keep to his words of not having anything with Sebastian’s acquaintances.

"It means strength and confidence, Zeno. It reminds me to always stand tall wherever I am... That’s why Sebastian can’t stand me," He looked at Sebastian, smiling at him.

Sebastian was boiling, his hand was itching to punch Leon’s face, the guy had always been a pain in his neck, always challenging him.

"Do you have nothing better to say apart from mentioning my name? Or you can’t feel validated without bringing me into your conversation?" Sebastian was speaking to Leon, but his eyes were on Zeno.

Zeno unconsciously removed his hand from Leon, clearing his throat.

"Hi, guys, what’s going on?" Nicholas easily slides in beside Sebastian, smiling at Leon and Zeno.

Zeno sighed in relief. Finally, someone with humor was on the table.

"I was just asking Zeno if he wants another job," Leon replied, taking Zeno’s wine and sipping from it.

Nicholas laughed, "Him? Did he tell you this is his only job?" He sent Zeno a secret look.

"The guy’s just here to have fun, he owns a gym and works as a -"

"Nicholas..." Zeno called, glaring at Nicholas.

"It’s alright if he doesn’t want people knowing what he does, I believe he’ll let me in with time, right, Zeno?" Leon placed his hand over the bench, leaning in beside Zeno.

"Ah, right, I believe so," Nicholas replied.

"Bold of you to assume that someone would want to let you in just because you asked them to," Sebastian lighted another cigarette, drumming his fingers on the table.

"Unlike you, Sebastian, I don’t beat around the bush, I make it clear when I’m flirting with someone, and from the looks of it, Zeno isn’t complaining," Leon smiled easily at Zeno.

Sebastian scoffed, "Do you want a relationship with Leon, Zeno?" He pinned his eyes on Zeno, his face hardened.

"None of your business, Mr. Sebastian," Zeno said, a fierce look on his face.

"True, why not go back to your bitch, Sebastian. Or, are you interested in Zeno but are not man enough to tell him?" Leon chuckled.

"If I wanted him, I’d get him, Leon, trust me," Sebastian smiled.

"Fuck you, Sebastian. I’d rather hump off a cliff than be with you," Zeno slammed his hand on the table.

Sebastian stares at Zeno, "Really? Do you mean that?" He asked, frowning.

"Stop humiliating yourself, Sebastian; the guys had outrightly rejected you; now, quit being a pussy and go back to your bitch," Leon raised the corner of his lips in a small degrading smile.

Sebastian’s face suddenly turned deadly, "What did you say, Leon?"

Zeno knew Sebastian, he knew the look of anger, and he knew that something was about to happen if Leon did repeat what he’d said.

"Do you want to dance?" Zeno suddenly asked Leon, stopping him from replying.

"Why not? Can’t say no to you," He stood and offered Zeno his hand.

Zeno took it and stood, allowing Leon to lead him out.

Nicholas immediately stood, "Can’t sit with you," He muttered.

Sebastian moved like lightning and grabbed Zeno’s arm, "I need to speak to you," He drew him away from Leon’s hold.

"What do you think you’re doing?!" Zeno tried to remove his hands from Sebastian’s hold but he got drawn closer to Sebastian.

"I said, I need to speak to you!" Sebastian growled.

"I don’t want to speak to you! Get your hands off me!" Zeno pushed on Sebastian’s chest.

Sebastian came to hold Zeno again but Leon appeared in front of Zeno and pushed Sebastian away.

"He said let go, you pussy," Leon glared at Zeno.

"Fucker!" Sebastian raised his hand to punch Leon’s face but Zeno suddenly came to stop him, taking the blow for Leon and falling to the floor, his hand holding his cheek.

Sebastian immediately lowered himself and held Zeno’s hand, "Hey, I’m sorry, I didn’t mention to -"

"Get off me! What do you want from me?!" He pushed Sebastian away.

"Happy? Look what you’ve done now!" Nicholas went and helped Leon in getting Zeno off the floor.

"That’s not very gentlemanly, Sebastian. Your behavior is quite shameful," Leon scowled at Sebastian, leading Zeno out of the club.

Nicholas stayed back, "You, come with me, we need to talk," He said and walked off.

Sebastian cursed under his breath, looking in the direction Leon had taken Zeno, wanting to follow them.

"Don’t even think about it, Sebastian, you’ve caused more harm than good tonight; walk with me," Nicholas called angrily.

"Fuck..." Sebastian cursed and followed Nicholas.

Maybe if he really told Nicholas what he wanted, he’d help him out with speaking to Zeno.

 

Chapter 159

 

"Speak, young man; I hope you have something very reasonable to say; if not, I’m returning that punch you gave to Zeno," Nicholas said as he stood in a quiet room, he had led Sebastian into.

"Do you think I meant to hit him?" Sebastian leaned against the wall, raking his fingers through his hair.

"Oh, I think you did; you pointed a gun at him, remember? Punching him is considered merciful from you," Nicholas scoffed.

Sebastian sighed; Nicholas was right; he’d pointed a gun at Zeno the day he broke up with him in front of Sakura; he’d done it, and he’d lived with regret since that day.

"Listen, Nicholas, I need your help," Sebastian said, standing erect.

Nicholas chuckled, "Oh, really? And you think I’d be willing to help?" He asked.

"No, I’m begging you," Sebastian fixed his hand into his pocket.

"Fuck you, Sebastian. I don’t give a crap about what you need, all I want to know is why you’re here, in Paris, back in Zeno’s life," Nicholas faced him, glaring at Sebastian.

Sebastian closed his eyes for a second before replying, "I’m letting Sakura go," He announced.

Nicholas snapped his head up at Sebastian and slowly started to clap his hands, confusing Sebastian.

"Wow, bravo, what a great news. I’m sure Zeno would be ecstatic with this information, he’d fly right back into your arms, kiss, and bend over for you. Am I right, Mr. Sebastian?" Nicholas scowled.

Sebastian felt moved, he felt the sarcasm behind Nicholas’ words, "That’s why I need your help, Nicholas; Zeno no longer listens to me -"

"And might I remind you why it is so?" Nicholas questioned.

Sebastian lowered his face to the floor, "No. Nicholas, please, I need you to calm down and hear me out. I know you have no reason to help me, but for old time’s sake, I’m hoping you do,"

Nicholas shrugged, "Let’s hear you out; I’m not promising I’ll help you out; I’m just giving you a listening ear," He said, going over to the corner to sit down on a chair.

Sebastian nodded, "You’ve already guessed I’m here for Zeno so I won’t beat around the bush. I want him back, but I can’t make it public until I’ve cut things off with Sakura; I just want to start afresh with him, and with time, we’d be back to where we left off. I just need time,"

Nicholas slowly shook his head, "So you’re here to continue your secret relationship with him, but now with an extra step to the secrecy? You want him to forgive you and date you, all in secret, while you pose to the world with Sakura beside you. You still don’t understand what a relationship is all about. You hurt him, Sebastian; he’d suffered just to forget you, Sebastian; now, you’re back in his life, more complicated than you’ve ever been, and you think he’d be ready to get back with you. Even if he were, with Sakura still beside you, It’s never going to be a possibility, Sebastian. I’ve seen Zeno; he’d changed; he’s no longer you’re little bodyguard who you pinned beside you with your little threats. He has gotten over you, Sebastian, for a long time now, and as we both saw tonight, there seemed to be something between him and Leon. Give up, Sebastian, finish your business in Paris and return to your family, he doesn’t need you," he sighed tiredly.

Sebastian gritted his teeth, "Leon is going to break his heart," He said.

Nicholas chuckled, "Yeah, just like you did, right?" He stared pointedly at Sebastian.

Sebastian looked away from Nicholas, clenching his fists, "Zeno should only be with me and no one else," He muttered.

"Well, newsflash, Mr. Stupid and possessive, Zeno is moved on with someone befitting, someone who’s willing to put him first in every aspect of his life and stand beside him no matter what society or family says. It’s all Zeno’s choice, he’s a grown man, I can’t force him to do what he doesn’t want, even if I could, I wouldn’t force him to get back with you, if I were him, I would never,"

"So, you’re not helping me?" Sebastian asked.

"I thought I was clear enough? Well, I’ll be more clear. I am not helping you get Zeno back, Sebastian, go home," Nicholas stood from his chair and walked over to Sebastian.

"Stay away, let the guy live... without you," Nicholas patted his shoulder and walked out of the room.

Sebastian sighed and clenched his jaws; he wasn’t happy with the way things were turning out. He hadn’t told Nicholas the whole truth; he couldn’t risk telling him, for Sakura’s sake, he had to protect Sakura first.

He’d find a way to work things out with Zeno; he couldn’t let Leon have him, or even Cassain. He didn’t give a fuck if he was really dating Cassian or not, all he knew was that he was here to get what belonged to him, which was Zeno.

***

Outside the club, Zeno stood in front of the building with Leon beside him.

"Are you alright?" Leon asked, watching Zeno’s face.

Zeno had refused to look at him since they stepped out of the club, almost like he was hiding his emotions from him.

Zeno nodded, "I’m fine,"

"At least, let me check if I need to take you to the hospital," He placed a gentle hand on the side of Zeno’s face, slowly turning to face his.

"You’re really fine?" He asked, his forest green eyes scanning Zeno’s entire face.

Zeno nodded, "I’m fine, Leon." He stepped back from Leon.

"I have to apologize for what happened tonight, I didn’t expect Sebastian to act so... outrageously," Zeno chuckled lightly.

Leon smiled, "No, you don’t need to apologize; Sebastian has always been quite impulsive, especially with me around; the guy hates me," He laughed.

Zeno was quiet, wondering why Sebastian Hayes almost everyone, he didn’t want to, but his mind went back to when Sebastian really made him believe that he loved him. He had thought he was the exception; he thought he would be the only one to receive Sebastian’s love, it turns out he was just a pastime, and Sebastian still ended up showing him his true form.

"You have a past with him," Leon stated, not asking.

Zeno looked at Leon; there was no need to lie, "You could tell?" He hoped Leon didn’t find out from him.

Zeno was so sure he gave nothing away to make anyone suspect he’d been associated with Sebastian in the past.

Leon smirked, using his thumb to touch the red mark beside Zeno’s lips where Sebastian had punched him, "He gave it away when he hit you... I’ve never seen him that way before; regretful, pained. Being that way toward you, I added it up with his attitude throughout the night and came to a conclusion. He’s jealous," He explained, still touching Zeno’s lips.

"He’s no longer my concern," Zeno sighed.

"That’s good news," Leon smiled.

Zeno frowned, "How so?"

"It means I can hit on you, right?" He leaned beside Zeno on the wall.

Zeno bit his lips, "I no longer do relationships, Leon, and I’m sorry, I can’t do anything with either..." He informed with regret.

Leon frowned, "Why?" He asked calmly.

"You’re Sebastian’s friend, I think his acquaintance is more usable. I can’t have anything to do with anyone related to him," Zeno replied.

"Hmm... you’re hurting me off without giving me a chance? I thought I felt something between us at first glance?" Leon moved to stand in front of Zeno, "Or you’re still nursing something for him?" He placed a hand on the wall, close to Zeno’s head.

Zeno smiled, "You’re not wrong, Leon... but I’ve told you my reason, I’m not looking for a relationship, and I can’t do anything with you-"

"I don’t take no for an answer, Zeno. I like you, it’s that simple, I’ll try my best to change your mind," Leon lowered his face toward Zeno.

Zeno smirked, "You’re quite straightforward, Leon. You’re free to flirt, but you might not get the result you want in the end. I do stand by my word," Zeno didn’t even flinch as Leon’s face kept lowering toward his.

Leon chuckled, "Let’s see how long you stand by your words, Zeno, I like challenges," He whispered against Zeno’s lips.

"Flirt at your own risk," Zeno shrugged.

"I will. Are you still going back to work? Do I drive you home?" Leon asked, not moving away from Zeno’s face.

"No need. I have a room at the club, and I better call it a night," Zeno replied.

Leon nodded, "Okay..." his face moved closer, "I’ll see you tomorrow night, then?" He asked.

Zeno nodded, "Sure, see you tomorrow night, Leon," He raised his hand to push Leon away, but Leon gently held his hand and stepped away.

"You knew I wanted to kiss you, yet you didn’t push me away, do I take it that you wanted to kiss me, too?" Leon smirked at him.

Zeno shook his head, "I knew you wouldn’t," He said confidently.

"Don’t be so sure, I might just do it, next time," Leon kissed the back of Zeno’s hand and dropped his hand.

"I’ll see you tomorrow night," Leon said.

"Yeah, tomorrow night," Zeno replied.

Leon nodded at him and walked away.

Zeno watched him enter a car parked near the building, when he could no longer see Leon’s car, he sighed and turned to enter the building, unexpectedly seeing Sebastian standing at the entrance and watching him quietly.

He saw Sebastian leave the place immediately after his eyes met him; he wondered how long he’d been standing there and how much he’d heard.

Whatever; Sebastian could hear and see whatever he wanted, he didn’t care.

 

 

Chapter 160

Zeno looked for Nicholas in the club but couldn’t find him, he wanted to know what he had discussed with Sebastian, but as he was nowhere to be seen, he decided to retire for the night.

The loud music and people’s drama were no longer interesting to him; he just wanted to go up to his quiet room and block out everyone and everything.

He saw Morgan waving at him as he left the club; he returned her with a shirt, heading right out.

Zeno was texting Nicholas as he walked along the passage, asking him to come to his room as soon as he could.

"Fuck...not again," He paused when he reached the foot of the stairs, and the familiar scent of cigarette wafted into his nose.

He knew Sebastian was there before he even raised his face to look up the stairs.

He leaned beside the wall, one of his legs raised behind him to support himself on the wall, his eyes darkly pinned on Zeno.

Zeno sighed, ’Pretend he’s not there,’ he told himself and resumed walking up the stairs.

He walked, pocketing his phone and keeping his phone devoid of any emotion.

As Zeno neared Sebastian, he felt his heart racing faster. He almost wanted to turn around and go somewhere else, but it would only give Sebastian the impression that he was still affected by him, which wasn’t the image he wanted to create for Sebastian.

Zeno clenched his jaws as he stepped on the last step that led him up to Sebastian’s position; he made his steps faster, needing to be out of his sight immediately.

He did.

Or he thought he did.

Zeno cursed under his breath when he felt Sebastian’s hand grab his wrist, however, unlike the Sebastian he knew that would have dragged him back and forced him to listen to him, he simply held his wrist and walked up behind him.

"Can I speak to you, please," Sebastian’s voice asked behind Zeno.

"Let go of hand or I’ll call the security on you," Zeno warned, not looking at him.

Sebastian did release his hand, but as Zeno wanted to walk away, he asked a question that made Zeno snap his head to him.

"Are you fucking Cassian?" Sebastian blurted out; he wanted to rile Zeno up, and at the same time, he wanted to know the truth; his mind hadn’t been at peace since he saw them together.

The moment Zeno heard Sebastian’s question, he paused and slowly turned to look at him. The anger that he had been trying to tame down came rushing right back inside him.

He stared at Sebastian with so much anger that he wanted to punch him, and if Sebastian said one more annoying word to him, he’d drop professionalism and fight him.

"What did you say?" Zeno asked, still maintaining a distance from Sebastian.

Sebastian smirked, "I asked, Zeno; are you fucking Cassian - Ugh!" He doubled over in pain, he had expected a punch, not a freaking kick to the ribs.

"Shit, my rubs hurt, Zeno," Sebastian groaned, wincing in pain.

"Go now, before I really call the security on you," Zeno glared at him and walked away.

"Damn," Sebas grunted and looked up to see Zeno walking away from him, he groaned and straightened up.

He needed to speak to Zeno, whether he wanted to or not.

Zeno was just about to open his door when he was dragged away from it, the next thing he felt was his back hitting the opposite wall, followed by Sebastian’s tall figure shadowing his view.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?!" Zeno shouted at him.

"I need to speak to you," Sebastian replied calmly.

Zeno scoffed, "I don’t fucking want to speak to you, we’re typically strangers, and this is an assault," He breathed angrily.

He pushed against Sebastian’s chest, but his wrists were caught and pinned above his head.

"Stop this madness!" Zeno warned.

Sebastian smirked, "Don’t make me do things, Zeno; calm down and listen to me," He said quietly.

Zeno was frustrated, angry, and betrayed.

Frustrated with Sebastian’s stubbornness, angry at Sebastian’s audacity, and betrayed by himself.

He felt betrayed because a part of him wanted to actually listen to what Sebastian had to say, a part of him that just wanted to hear the reason why he had hurt them so badly in the past.

"Fuck off, Sebastian, read my lips, I -"

Sebastian’s dark chuckle cut him off, "Oh, I’m reading them, baby girl, and they are asking me to kiss them," He whispered fervently close to Zeno’s lips.

Zeno gulped, ’Fucking bastard, stay away from me,’ But he couldn’t say it out, he was hypnotized by the way Sebastian’s lips moved closer to his, but the moment Sebastian wanted to actually kiss him, he knead him on the groin and pushed him off when he was in pain.

Zeno never expected Sebastian to be very, very stubborn because, in the next second, he was right back with his back pressed on the wall.

"Are you stu-" He didn’t get to finish his words, Sebastian’s lips crashed against his, simply molesting his poor lips.

Zeno’s brain simply zipped open his skull and flew out to the floor because he immediately forgot how to think at that moment.

Sebastian was kissing him, after a whole year!

He was frozen, incapable of accepting or protesting.

But it seemed like his brain jumped right back into his head when he felt Sebastian’s hand going down his back; he did the only things he could do in his half-paralysed state.

"Jesus, Zeno!" Sebastian reeled back in pain, a look of hurt and rejection masking his face as he sucked his bleeding side lip into his mouth.

Zeno felt accomplished for causing him pain, he walked up to him and pointed a finger to Sebastian’s face, "I don’t know you, you don’t know me; leave me alone, I don’t give a fuck about what you have to say, your words are the same with the words of a dead man. You’re dead to me, Sebastian, don’t make me hate you more than I already do," He said and turned away from Sebastian.

"You can ask nicely, and I’ll fuck you, Zeno; you don’t need Leon, Cassian, or even that little bitch of yours. Don’t sell yourself short," Sebastian taunted behind him.

Zeno was unlocking his door when he heard Sebastian’s words; he so wanted to turn around and kill Sebastian, but he’d just be playing along with Sebastian’s tone.

He’d just realized that Sebastian was doing everything to get him close to him.

He ignored Sebastian and entered his room, making sure he locked his door perfectly, he didn’t want the psycho outside to infiltrate his room while he was sleeping.

Zeno immediately got a message from Nicholas telling him he’d be busy with clients for the rest of the night.

Zeno instantly knew that he was avoiding him.

He wants about Nicholas; he’d still see him at home in the morning, and there would be no running for him.

As for Sebastian, Zeno kept cursing his body and heart.

How could they lose focus with just a clumsy kiss and a little touch?

He wasn’t going to dwell on what just happened outside his door; he was going to dwell on how much he’d missed being in Sebastian’s arms, feeling his lips on his, hearing his voice very close to his ear.

He shook his head, "Fuck Sebastian Orion...he’s dead to me," Zeno muttered and fell back on his bed, shutting his eyes tightly to stop those stupid thoughts from entering his head.

Outside the door, Sebastian stared at Zeno’s door in contemplation, "I don’t have to stop you, go in, trust me, he was being merciful with the lip... the guy hates you now, he’d kill you if you dared to break in," Nicholas’ voice spoke from behind Sebastian, forcing him to look away from the door.

Sebastian sighed, "You saw?"

"Oh, I’ve just finished my popcorn; it was nice seeing you get beat," Nicholas replied with a satisfied smile, "Trust me, I would have bit off your tongue and swallowed it if I were Zeno," He smirked.

Sebastian slowly nodded, "Agreed," He smiled.

Nicholas could see hurt in Sebastian’s eyes, "Look man, if you really want him back, your monster approach is not going to work, as of now, Zeno hates you -"

"You don’t know that," Sebastian cut him off with a frown.

Nicholas chuckled, "Oh, I know, he hates you so much," he smirked.

Sebastian’s frown deepened, his mind thinking of the fastest way to make Zeno forgive him.

"Try using some softer method of approaching him, trust me, Leon is a master in the art of softly approaching people he wants. When you do, maybe Zeno would come to realize that he’d really missed you. Be free, I mean, break whatever relationship you have with Sakura, be ready to stand beside him, prove to him that you’re still the stupid man he once loved... then maybe, I said ’maybe’ he can let you in. Don’t take my word for it, you might still end up getting your ass whooped in the end, but it would be good to see you’re trying," Nicholas patted his shoulder and walked over to his room.

The mentioning of Leon made Sebastian realize that there was actually a probability that Zeno might actually be interested in that snake and wasn’t just interacting with him to spite him.

Then, he was left with no choice but to use his trump card; it always worked like magic.

However, if his trump card doesn’t work, which he doubts, he would just have to add Leon to his body count, yeah...that kind of body count.