Ch. 181..190

Chapter 181

Zeno and Sebastian sat in front of Nana, who was busy staring from one person to another.

Ken had left them the moment Julia entered the house, he was busy trying to help her out with things she absolutely didn’t help with.

His voice could be heard from the living room as he questioned Julia about everything she was using to cook.

Sebastian had never been so grateful for his son’s irritating questions as he was at that moment; Ken’s voice warded the awkwardness away, giving them some kind of easy environment to quietly think of what to say the old lady sitting in front of them.

Zeno hadn’t looked at her the whole time; he was scared of seeing the disappointment in her eyes; she had always been big on family and reproduction; what would she say now that she’d discovered that he could never give her the granddaughter-in-law she always asked of? As traditional as she was, this might just be a deal-breaker for her.

Nana cleared her throat, causing them to shift uncomfortably in their seat.

"I was worried about you, Zeno; it’s been two nights since I was told you were with Sebastian. I thought you would call, or he would call, but none of you did," She tapped her feet on the floor.

Zeno bit his lips and glanced at Sebastian, who seemed more confident and was giving Nana short glances.

"I’m sorry, Nana. He was just a little sick and I decided to keep him here to recover," Sebastian explained but immediately regretted it when he saw the eyes Nana was giving him.

"Yes, my dear child, I was lucky enough to see your method of treatment, it was quite intense," She replied, eyes narrowed.

"Nana..." Zeno called cautiously.

"Ah, he speaks," Nana smiled at Zeno.

"Tell me, Child, are you feeling better now? I’m sure Sebastian is perfect in his field," Nana continued.

Zeno’s face was red and hot, he glanced at Sebastian and was shocked to find him looking at him expectantly to answer Nana’s ridiculous question.

’Shamelss!’ He cursed mentally.

"Nana, what you saw -"

"I’m disappointed in both of you," Nana sighed and slowly shook her head.

Zeno’s heart broke as he heard those words, he balled his fists around him and faced the ground. He knew it, he just knew it. There was no way she would be accepting of him and Sebastian.

Sebastian shifted close to Zeno and placed his hand on his thigh, his eyes locked on Nana, "I’m sorry if you don’t appreciate what I and your Grandson share, Nana, but if what you want is for us to stay away from each other, then I’m sorry, I’ll have to turn down your offer before you request it," He said calmly and respectfully.

Nana shook her head, "I just got more disappointed," She stared at Zeno.

Zeno blinked slowly, staring at the table in front of Nana, "Nana, I’m really sorry, okay? I know you have hopes of me giving you another family one day in the way you’ve known to be right... but this way is also right, Nana; yes, none of us can carry babies in us, but we can still have children of our flesh and blood, there are means, Nana, I promise you won’t have to worry about that," He placed his hand over Sebastian’s on his thigh.

Sebastian was locked on Zeno’news profile, this was the first time Zeno was openly speaking to both him and someone else about their future. They had never talked about it, but there he was, speaking confidently about it. It gave Sebastian butterflies; he felt proud, and he felt loved.

Nana sighed, "What are both of you talking about? I thought you should be apologizing for letting me find out, or rather, confirm my suspicions by myself. Do you know how Turing it is to want to know something but can’t ask directly because you think you’d offend someone if you did? Yeah, that’s how I felt, and that is why I’m disappointed in both of you for trying to hide it from me." She frowned.

Sebastian and Zeno slowly stared at themselves, a wave of understanding and embarrassment washing over them.

"Nana... you knew?" Zeno questioned.

"I had a hunch, the moment the son of Orion stepped into my home, I could feel the atmosphere charged up between you two; as she stayed longer, the man made it too obvious with his intentions, and when he asked to sleep in your room, I was 95% certain about my hunch, and here I am, right." She gave Zeno an open look, letting him know where she was coming from

Sebastian immediately sighed in relief. He thought he was going to face another human who didn’t want him to date Zeno.

"You’re right, Nana. My intentions can’t be hidden with your cute grandchild over here, but I get where he gets the genes from, you’re one fine woman," Sebastian praised her.

Nana giggled softly, "Oh, please, you flatter me. Now you know why I hammering about you marrying my nonexistent granddaughter. I wanted you to tell me already, but none of you said a word," She smiled broadly.

Sebastian wanted to say something, but Zeno beat him to it.

"So... you’re not angry? You don’t hate me? Not disappointed? Well, at least, not in the way we thought. And..." He locked his blue eyes on his Nana, "Did you just call Sebastian son of who?" He raised a brow at her.

Sebastian went quiet, too. He had missed that part, but now that Zeno mentioned it, he wanted to know too.

Nana smiled, "Angry? No, I’m not, why should I be? You hardly love someone, Zeno, then when you finally found someone, you’d think I’ll be against it? No," She shook her head.

"I’m not disappointed either, nor do I hate either of you, children. If I hated your kind of love I wouldn’t love Nicholas, and, I knew you switched a long time ago when we came to Paris, I saw the way ran away from women, I do hear your little conversations with Nicholas about Cassian, and, you work in Nicholas’ club, what straight man would want to work there?" She stood and went over to Zeno.

"I love you, dear child. It doesn’t matter who you love, I will love you and whoever it is. And look who it is, a fine man, trust me, my old soul has no objections," She leaned down and kissed their foreheads one after the other and turned to leave.

"I’ll go save the girl from our little boy, he’s quite a handful," She chuckled and stepped forward

Zeno immediately stood and gently held her arm, "Come on, Nana," He hugged her from behind, "I’m happy for your acceptance, delighted. But, you can’t run away from my question: how do you know that Sebastian is the son of Orion? Tell me, Nana, trust me, I have a lot of surprises in store for you, too," He pleaded beside her.

Nana took a deep breath and turned to face him, "I would have loved to tell you that Sebastian introduced himself as ’Sebastian Orion’ the day he came to the house, but I already knew that. And, as you’re already dating him, it means you might have also discovered how they are related to our family," She said in a quiet voice.

Zeno stepped back from her, a sarcastic smile on his face, "Of course. I had to be the last one to know. Why, Nana? Why did no one ever tell me what they did? Why was I kept in the dark? Am I that dumb?" He questioned with teary eyes.

Nana stepped forward and held his hand, "It’s not like that, we were trying to protect you, the people your parents worked with, they were dangerous, that’s why we got a house to raise you, a simple house, to give you a normal childhood, it was out of love Zeno, not because anyone thought you were dumb," She explained.

Zeno nodded, "Okay, Nana, let’s pretend I understand what you’re saying, let’s move on to the next question. Are you aware that Mom and Dad never died?" He asked, his eyes staring right at hers to see her reaction.

He was shocked.

She didn’t seem fazed by that news.

"I don’t want to assume things, Nana, answer my question, please. Are you aware that my parents never died?" He asked again.

Sebastian went behind him and held his hand, but he got pushed away, "Just let me be, Sebastian, please," Zeno said without looking at him.

"Yes," Nana replied.

"No, Nana, No! That’s what you’re supposed to say! Say no! It’s you and I who were supposed to be shocked about this news, why am I the only one?!" He chuckled humorlessly.

Nana didn’t respond; she went and hugged him, "Calm down, Zeno, I’ll explain what I know to you," She whispered.

Zeno looked down at her face, "Nana?" He called quietly.

"Yes, Zeno?" She smiled at him.

"Were you ever in comatose?" His heart thundered dangerously; he hoped her answer wouldn’t break him.

 

Chapter 182

"Nieto, why would you ask that? Do you believe I would lie to you?" Nana asked with a worried look.

Zeno scoffed, "I’m sorry, Nana, but yes, I think you can lie to me; I think anyone can lie to me," he glanced at Sebastian.

Sebastian sighed quietly behind him. He hoped Nana’s revelations wouldn’t tear him and Zeno further apart.

Nana didn’t leave Zeno’s hand; she knew what Zeno must be feeling and thinking; this was what they kept away from him. Zeno might seem quiet, but he had a mind of his own; he was strongheaded and kind at the same time. If he knew things about his parents, he might want to play. Superhero wasn’t something their world needed; all their world needed were villains; superheroes were for fairytales.

"Just answer my question, Nana, were you ever in comatose?" He persisted.

"Yes, Zeno, I was. However, I regained consciousness way back before Ezra even gave you that flash drive, and in a way, I’m happy you didn’t watch it," She replied, gently leading Zeno to the sofa she had previously occupied and making him sit.

Zeno narrowed his eyes as he thought back to when Ezra handed him the flash, it was three months before the whole Bison episode. She gained consciousness and still chose not to contact him.

"Why, Nana? Why did you not contact me? You allowed the hospital to keep telling me that I couldn’t see you because you were under intensive care. This is bullshit, Nana; I’m heartbroken, disappointed. Are you even my Nana, are those two people even my parents? Has any aspect of my life ever been real?" Zeno couldn’t stop the tears from falling from his eyes.

"Let him be," Nana held back Sebastian when he moved to go to Zeno.

Sebastian gritted his teeth and stood still; his heart shattered to pieces as he watched Zeno question everything about his life.

Nana went and lowered herself in front of Zeno, placing her hands on his knees, "Nieto, you should never question your lineage; you’re your mother and father’s son; they love you so much, more than they live themselves, more than anything in the world," She calmly assured.

"We can run a DNA if you doubt that, we love you, Nieto," She promised.

Zeno shook her head, "This isn’t love; love doesn’t lie, doesn’t hide, doesn’t betray, and doesn’t hurt. You guys did all these to me and yet claim to love me. Nana, you don’t and will never understand what I’ve gone through from the moment I heard about the accident till now; it’s not been fun, Nana, yet all I get is information that all I’ve suffered and worked for were all baseless. What would you do in my shoes, Nana? Why did you lie to me?" He sobbed quietly.

Nana sighed, she took out a handkerchief from her pocket and wiped Zeno’s tears. "Don’t cry, Child," She whispered.

"I’m sorry for lying to you; my apology is not for hiding your parent’s true identity from you; I would do it again if it meant that I get to protect you from enemies. But I’m apologizing for not telling you about your parents’ situation when you met me in the hospital, but I promised Orion and your parents that I wouldn’t say a word," she said.

Zeno laughed quietly, "Wow, you just keep proving to me that I know nothing, Nana. I’m listening; pour it all out on me; let’s get this over with," His face was expressionless.

Nana nodded, "I too, had been surprised to hear that your parents were alive. I believed it for a while until Orion met me and told me about them. I had asked him to let you know, but he reminded me that there were still enemies searching g for you if you so slightly showed any signs of being affiliated with the Mafia. I chose to protect you," She looked into his emotionless eyes.

"That’s when I asked Ezra to give you the tape but not let you close yet. At that moment, Orion told me what Bison was searching for me; he knew I was aware of your parent’s location; Bison had had his eyes on you, and Sebastian’s presence was your savior. He wanted you to lead him to me; unfortunately for him, you rarely ever visited the hospital, so he couldn’t get to me," She watched his reaction.

Zeno smiled, he was no longer surprised, "You knew Bison," He chuckled, shaking his head.

"Nieto, Bison was the least worrisome of your parent’s enemies; he’s the one who caused the accident. That day, we were planning to tell you everything; they knew they were going out for a long time and decided to tell you, but look what happened. They realized that it wasn’t still safe, Zeno. All these are because we care," She touched his cheek and sat beside him, hugging his arm.

Zeno looked at Sebastian then at Nana, "Everything is a lie." He muttered.

"Zeno..." Sebastian called softly.

Zeno ignored him, he was tired.

"Your mother always wants to speak to his baby boy, but your father refuses. He told me not to tell you because you would try to make contact with them, which would be dangerous for them since they had been declared dead. Their enemies had lay low, but if they heard the news about the fake death, they’d come for you and them..." Nana spoke quietly.

"I think I need to be alone, Nana," Zeno said.

"You asked me for the whole truth," She reminded.

Zeno shut his eyes, "Go on, Nana," He said, looking down at the floor.

"They didn’t work for Orion, they worked with Orion," Nana announced.

Zeno didn’t speak, he’d had too much shock and was now numb, "Awesome. So, they’re Mafia?" He asked calmly.

"Yes," Nana nodded.

"Okay," he said and stood from the sofa.

He paused in front of Sebastian and smiled, "You’re not surprised, you knew, so much for trusting you a second time, or, did you just find out, too?" He removed his eyes and walked away.

"Zeno, Baby," Sebastian caught his arm, hurrying to stand in front of him, "I know you don’t want to listen to me, but I want to talk with you, I can let you alone right now," Sebastian held him tightly.

Zeno smiled sadly, "I’ll hate you if you insist," He simply removed Sebastian’s hand and left the living room.

Nana sighed, "You go speak to him, Sebastian. He doesn’t have to be left alone." She told him.

Sebastian nodded and immediately hurried after Zeno.

Zeno knew Sebastian was coming, there was no way he would stay away.

He sat on the bed, waiting for him to come into the room.

He didn’t wait for long before the door was pushed open and Sebastian walked in, locking the door.

He didn’t flinch, he sat still and watched Sebastian as he approached him.

"Baby," Sebastian touched Zeno’s face gently.

"You’re a liar," Zeno said.

Sebastian shook his head, "It’s not how you see it," He explained.

Zeno looked up at Sebastian, "You had every chance to tell me, Sebastian. For fuck’s sake Seb, you were not supposed to hurt me again. I opened up to you a second time, you still chose to lie, Seb..." He stood, hugging Sebastian.

Sebastian held him close. He didn’t know what was on Zeno’s mind, but he knew that Zeno’s actions were not what they seemed; hugging him at this moment was unexpected and suspicious.

"Zeno, Baby, I’m sorry. I was looking for the best time to tell you. I had also just learned about it after you left for Paris; I knew you wouldn’t take it well, so I decided to focus on making you stay with me first. I was scared you would leave me if that was the first thing I told you," Sebastian whispered.

Zeno buried his face in Sebastian’s neck, "This isn’t fair. I want to hate you, I really do, but I can’t. You’re too... I can’t hate you, Sebastian, but I’m not gonna stay with you. You should be my person, my safe place, but you’re hurting me, just like that rest," He stepped away from Sebastian, his eyes tearing up again.

Sebastian placed his hand on the side of his face. "My father, he’s actually protecting you by asking me to break up with you. He said it’s his promise to your parents, to keep you safe," His voice was low.

"What a surprise," Zeno replied, "What is protecting me from by breaking me up with you, your dick?" He scoffed.

Sebastian let a small smile grace the corner of his lips, "Maybe that too, but it’s mainly because of my enemies. He actually asked us to break up because Bison’s partners found out about you and me after the episode and set out to find you. I was both glad and happy when you left with Nicholas, why do you think I let you go for a year? I was staying away to let them believe you meant nothing to me, and that’s why my father and I agreed to Sakura’s father’s proposal of marrying her daughter. We’re using her as a distraction from you, Zeno. The rivals think Sakura is my weakness, but it’s you, Zeno, you’re my Achilles’ heel, I shouldn’t even be here, but I couldn’t bear staying away from you," He narrated.

"How touching, more mystery. So how about now? Have the so-called enemies backed off?" Zeno questioned.

Sebastian shook his head, "They would have, but I brought them to you, Zeno. I’m sorry, I just wanted to get you back in my arms, I wasn’t thinking right, and I ignored the loopholes. But it’s fine now, I’m here to -"

"It’s alright, Seb. You don’t have to worry about them coming for me. It’s not like we’re together, right? I mean, yeah, we were on that track a few minutes ago, but not now. I’m done here. I swear to God, I’m losing my sanity. I love you, but I have to be away from you, I might go crazy if I keep staying with you or Nana," Zeno calmly said, maintaining eye contact.

Sebastian shook his head, "They know you’re mine, Zeno. I need you close, to protect you." His arm snuck around Zeno’s waist.

"I don’t want you or my parents’ protection. I’m leaving, I need ro live my life," Zeno said.

"You don’t understand, Baby girl, your at risk, and I’ll be damned to let you walk away," Sebastian’s lips was a whisper away from Zeno’s.

Zeno leaned in and pressed his lips hard against Sebastian’s.

Sebastian immediately engaged in a heated kiss session, he could feel Zeno’s anger from it and he welcomed it, if this was how he wanted to vent, he was available for him and whatever method he wanted.

Zeno leaned his head away and drew air into his lungs, "Fuck you. Fuck your protection," his voice was raspy.

"Fuck me? Yes. Fuck my protection? Not happening, baby girl," Sebastian whispered, eyes dark.

"You can’t stop me, Seb. You can go ahead and live in your web of lies and secrets; I’m done," He pushed Sebastian’s chest, but he wouldn’t budge.

Sebastian smirked, "I’d rather blow off my balls than let you leave, Zeno. Your mine, mine to protect, mine to cherish, mine to love. Letting you get hurt is not on the list, in case you didn’t check. You can’t leave." He kissed Zeno’s ear.

Zeno shivered, "Are holding me hostage?" He asked in a quiet voice.

"If I have to," Sebastian chuckled darkly, his hand going between Zeno’s legs.

"A food fuck will change your mind, no?" Sebastian whispered.

Zeno bit his lower lip, "No," He stepped out of Sebastian’s hold.

"Fuck you," He said and walked toward the door.

Sebastian watched him calmly, waiting.

Zeno pulled the door and frowned, "You locked it?" He glared at Sebastian.

"Come here, Baby girl..." He strode to Zeno, "I need to remind you why you can’t leave me, trust me, you’ll love it," he pulled Zeno into his arms, sucking the side of his neck.

"Let go," Zeno whispered.

"On your knees, Zeno," Sebastian’s dark voice made Zeno’s insides curl deliciously.

 

Chapter 183

"On your Knees, Sebastian," Zeno mocked his order.

Sebastian smirked, "I don’t mind," He whispered and was about to go on his knees when someone knocked on his door.

"Hi, handsome, it’s time to eat; the old lady is asking for her Grandson; I think his name is Nieto; I thought you were with Zeno; are you cheating on him?" Claudia’s voice rang from outside the door.

Zeno rolled his eyes, "At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised if you did actually cheat on me," He said.

Sebastian held Zeno’s arm as he replied to Claudia, "I’m with Zeno, Claudia. We’ll be out in a minute."

"Oh... okay, I’m gonna go eat, not waiting for you guys to finish doing whatever dirty deeds you’re currently engaging in," Claudia chuckled and walked away from the door.

Sebastian sighed and looked at Zeno who had a frown on his face, "I wish we were actually doing something dirty," He said in a suggestive tone.

Zeno eyes him with expressionless eyes and steps out from the front, "Just open the door. Right now, I don’t want you, Sebastian, and you know why. I might not want you for a really long time, so stop trying, no matter how hard you try, I’m not giving in to your seductions until I decide if we should really be together and not just because of the out-of-the-world chemistry we feel for each other," He folded his arms.

Sebastian sighed, "Fine. I’ll respect that. But I can’t let you out of the house, Zeno, at least not alone. What you went through from Bison would be nothing compared to what those guys are planning to do to you if they get their hands on you. I can’t risk losing you, Zeno. I can’t risk you getting hurt. You can hate me all you want, but your safety is my priority. I just want that to be clear between us," He went to hold Zeno but he moved away from him.

He sighed and opened the door, "Let’s go eat," He said and stood beside the door, looking at Zeno.

Zeno knew Sebastian meant every word he said about not letting him go, there was no use starving himself to show his anger.

They wanted him to stay here, right? Fine, he would stay, but he would make sure they understood that he no longer ger trusted them and didn’t feel so beside them.

He walked out of the door, ignoring Sebastian.

Downstairs, Nana was sitting with Ken and Claudia at the dining table, waiting for Sebastian to bring his Nieto down.

She soon saw them walking down the stairs and gently pulled out the chair beside her, waiting for Zeno to cone and sit beside her.

Sebastian was slowly walking behind Zeno, but as they approached the dining table, he hurried past him to pull out a chair for him.

"Zeno, over here, with me," Ken called, jumping down his chair to drag the chair beside his back for Zeno.

"Thank you, Ken," Zeno said and went over to Ken.

He held out Ken’s chair for him and pushed him in when he sat back.

He then settled on the chair near the boy, ignoring Nana and Sebastian’ gaze.

"Zeno’s here, Nana, we can eat now," He announced.

Nana nodded, "Claudia, please," She said to the lady sitting beside Sebastian.

Claudia smiled, "Yes, Nana, I’ll share the food," She proceeded to ditch the food.

The dining was quiet; apart from Ken’s comments on how sweet the food was, everything else was quiet.

Zeno barely touched his food; he was moving them around his plate, his face lowered, and mind occupied.

"Ahem..." Nana cleared her throat to get Zeno’s attention but he didn’t give it.

She moved her eyes to Sebastian, "Sebastian," She called quietly.

"Yes, Nana," Sebastian answered.

"Zeno mentioned something about family... does it mean I’m expecting news soon?" She smiled.

Zeno paused, his face slightly tilting to glance at Sebastian before he proceeded to face his food again.

Sebastian sighed; he could feel the eyes of everyone on him, Nana, Claudia, and especially Ken. They were all expecting something from him, heck, he was even expecting something from himself, but Zeno’s mood wasn’t the best one to act with at the moment.

He looked at Nana and shook his head, "Nana, this is something I and Zeno have to agree on. Hopefully, it’ll be as you expect," He smiled.

"Oh, I understand. I was just being inquisitive," Nana chuckled.

Ken frowned at his Father.

He looked from Zeno to Sebastian, a disappointed look masking his face.

"Dad?" Ken called.

Sebastian said a little prayer before answering his son; he just hoped Ken wouldn’t say something he wasn’t supposed to say.

"Yes, Kenneth?" He sent Ken a secret look that warned him to behave.

But, hey, it was Ken, he rarely behaved, except with Zeno.

"I thought you promised?" Ken questioned.

Sebastian sighed, "I know, son, can we talk about this later? In private?" He asked, gritting his teeth.

Ken furrowed his brows, "Dad -"

"Kenneth Orion," Sebastian dropped his fork with a clank.

"I’m full," Zeno suddenly announced and stood from the chair, leaving the table.

Ken blinked slowly, looking remorseful.

Zeno let the table, stepping out of the house for the first time.

He’d only gotten a tour of the inside, but not the outside.

He knew the mansion was big but he didn’t realize it was that big as he stared at it from outside.

He took a deep breath and looked around the large compound.

A few trees were planted around, a huge water fountain was pouring at a distance, and the sun did justice to the beauty by casting its golden rays down on the compound.

"Hey," Someone said behind Zeno.

Zeno didn’t turn, he knew who it was already, "What do you want?" He questioned, not moving.

"I want to apologize to the friend I wronged," Ida replied, walking over to stand in front of Zeno.

Zeno scoffed, he looked at Ida for a while. This was the first time he had seen him since after he met him and Sakura in front of Ezra’s office.

He slowly shook his head, "You don’t have to apologize, you were just doing your job. And, even if you didn’t say anything, I and your boss would have still broken up," He smiled.

Ida sighed, "I was wrong, Zeno. I had known you for so long and should have been aware of what you could and couldn’t do. I know you said you don’t need my apology, but I want to apologize. My actions were wrong, I realized it long ago. And I knew you wouldn’t believe me, but I miss you; I miss our friendship," Ida smiled.

Zeno wished he could believe him, "You missed our friendship?" He asked.

"Yes, Zeno, I know you don’t believe me and I can understand," Ida said.

"You don’t understand, Ida. You’ll never understand why I can’t trust you, it’s not even you, it’s the people I never thought would betray me. But hey, it’s none of your business, I’m sorry for saying more than I should say. Don’t mind me, I’m just out here for a while," Zeno said and walked away from Ida.

Ida stood still, looking at Zeno for a while.

He could see that Zeno had changed, both in appearance and aura, but he wasn’t happy, at least, not as happy as he was when he started dating Sebastian.

He knew a few things about what was going on between his boss and Zeno and he knew that Zeno was strong to be able to still want to stay with Sebastian after everything. He guessed that’s what love meant.

His mind went back to Cody, who chose to stay with Sakura. Cody had broken up with him a few months ago for some mistake he made; he wished they had the resilience Sebastian and Zeno had in their relationship; even distance and lies couldn’t separate them from each other.

He sighed and hurried over to Zeno, he wanted his friend back, at least, even if the only thing he could offer was his company.

"Why are you following me?" Zeno asked as he heard Ida’s footsteps behind him.

"Ah, you see, wait... do I call you boss?" Ida questioned with a serious frown.

Zeno scoffed, "No way, Zeno." He told him.

Ida nodded, "Alright, boss," He chuckled when Zeno glared at him.

"Do you want to race?" Ida held Zeno’s hand and led him toward the far end of the building.

Zeno was curious, "Race?"

"Yeah, it can help release steam, you’ll feel better," Ida assured as he led Zeno toward a closed door.

"Okay... but why are we going in there?" He questioned as he watched h

Ida pushed the door open.

"Well, I never said what type of race," Ida led him through the door and smiled when he saw the amazed look on Zeno’s face.

"A swim race?" Zeno chuckled.

"Yeah, you in?" Ida asked challengingly.

"What’s the catch?" Zeno raised a brow.

Ida shrugged, "Um, nothing, the winner just gets to realize that he’s better than the loser," He Informed.

Zeno chuckled lightly, "Let’s race," He agreed.

 

Chapter 184

Zeno was sitting beside the pool with Ida, a smile on his face, "So?" He asked.

Ida sighed, defeated, "You’re better than me. Happy?" He frowned.

Zeno smiled, "Of course, that makes my day. Being better than head of Sebastian Orion’s bodyguards is on cool thing to be," He patted Ida’s head.

Ida chuckled, "Glad you feel that way," he said.

Ida was glad he could make Zeno smile in his situation. He knew that the secrets Zeno was unraveling were the kind to take easily, so making him smoke and laugh was a miracle.

"Your boyfriend must miss you. Why didn’t he come with?" Zeno asked, slowly kicking his leg in the water.

Ida chuckled, "I don’t have a boyfriend anymore," He informed.

Zeno frowned, "Huh? What do you mean? You broke up with him?" He couldn’t believe it.

Ida shook his head, "No, why would I? I still love that stubborn shortie," He replied.

Zeno tilted his head to the side, "Then?" He wanted to know what went wrong; Ida and Cisy seemed quiet, loving, and sweet to him.

"Well, there was this girl -"

"You fucked a girl? Cheated on him?" Zeno interrupted.

Ida blinked in confusion, "Yes, I mean, no! It’s not like that; I didn’t fuck her; he walked in before anything couldn’t happen," he hurried to explain.

Zeno’s face twisted with anger, "So you did try to cheat on him?" He glared at Ida.

Ida sighed, "No, you’re getting it all wrong, just like him," He said and removed his legs from the water, putting them in front of him as he faced Zeno.

"I’m listening, lie your way through, just like your master," He rolled his eyes.

Ida shook his head and cleared his throat, "Here’s what happened: we went to a bar to get some drink, and the twin had tagged along, too. We ordered our drinks and drank, everything was going fine until I started feeling funny. I decided to wash my face in the restroom, but on my way to the restroom, it got worse," He scratched the back of his neck.

"Everything turned blurry, I felt hot; to put it simply, I needed to fuck someone, Cody," He continued, watching Zeno’s reaction.

"So you fucked a girl thinking she was Cody?" Zeno questioned with a raised brow.

Ida chuckled, "Chill, Zeno. I got in the restroom, splashed water on my face, and was ready to go grab my boyfriend when someone pushed me against the sink and chained my wrists behind my back," he showed Zeno his wrists as if he still had the chains on them.

"Like I’d believe you’d let someone take you unaware," Zeno scoffed.

Ida blew out an exasperated air from his lips, "Bro, I was drugged, I could barely see clearly or stand on my feet," He pointed to his feet.

Zeno nodded, "go on,"

"She pushed me against a wall and forced my pants down, I was disoriented, trying to force my brain to not like the touch on my skin, and just at the moment she wanted to put me in her mouth, Cody pulled her away and from my blurry vision, I could see him slapping her until her cheeks turned red. He came to me and pulled my pants back up, dragged me to her, and forced her to unlock the chains," Ida put his hand in the water and made slow circles.

"Okay... then, if he saw the whole thing, why did he still break up with you?" Zeno questioned.

"He... he didn’t believe me. He said I asked the lady to come to find me in the restroom for done BDSM shit; I mean, he knows I’m not really a fan, I only do it because he enjoys it, but asking a stranger to do it with me? That’s insane," Ida frowned.

"He didn’t even believe that nothing happened between the stranger lady and me; it’s four months, Zeno, four months with no backdoor activity; I’ve groveled, sworn, promised, cried, but nothing seemed to work. He’d shut me out completely, he even threatened to quit the job if I dared to bring the matter up again to him," Ida stared at Zeno, leaning close to look better at his face.

Zeno slowly reeled back, "What?" He asked.

"Tell me, how did you go a whole year with no action? I know you’re never letting anyone else touch you, Or, did you?" Ida asked quietly.

Zeno smirked and suddenly pushed Ida back into the water.

"Ugh! Come on, Zeno, just answer me. I could use a few tricks; it’s getting really hard for me," he shouted at Zeno who was walking away from him.

Zeno paused, "I have nothing to tell you, if he’s really done, you let him go. There’s no amount of pleading that’s going to get him back. It’s just like I and Sebastian; he thinks I’m kidding around, but I’m really done this time, I mean it," He told Ida.

"I’m sorry, Zeno, I find that hard to believe with the way your eyes shine busy just calling his name. I think you’re just angry for now and would want him to fulfill those dark fantasies of yours later. I can’t take your word for it, I’m never giving up on Cody! You hear?!" Ida shouted at Zeno, who rolled his eyes and left with his clothes in hand.

Zeno went into the house and couldn’t find anyone. It was better that way; he wasn’t still ready to speak to anyone, especially Ken, he felt like that kid was trying to fix him in an uncomfortable situation.

He went up to the room and quietly opened the door, sighing in relief when he didn’t see Sebastian in there.

He went right into the shower and washed his body under the warm water.

With a towel around his waist, he stepped back into the room but frowned when he couldn’t still find Sebastian anywhere.

He wondered where he’d gone to.

He shrugged pulled his loose pants up his waist, and went straight to the bed.

He closed his eyes and thought of everything he’d learned about himself and his family. He was very disappointed, but he started to calm down and realize that, indeed, his parents did all this because they loved him.

He, too, wouldn’t want his child to be put under the eyes of his Mafia enemies; it would bother his soul, he was surprised at how Sebastian managed to keep Ken safe even when he had so many enemies. Having a child as a Mafia could be quite tricky, even if it wasn’t a child; having someone as a weakness was a huge loophole in the life of a mafia, just like himself.

Sebastian had said it; he was his weakness; maybe he might have overreacted by telling Sebastian that he was living when all he was doing was trying to protect him.

Ida’s words were true; he could never truly leave Sebastian; the Mafia king already had half of his soul, he never knew someone could own your body just as much as you thought you owned it.

Sebastian was a part of him, a part of him that he never wanted to lose. He wasn’t leaving, instead, he was ready to help with whatever plans Sebastian had made to bring his parents back and defeat those rivals.

For once, he’s going to accept Sebastian for who he was. He is Mafia, Zeno knew that and still fell for him in the beginning. He knew what he was signing up for, a life of secrets and threats.

Hating his parents would be throwing stones while living in a glass house.

He loved a Mafia king and dared to hate his parents, hypocritical.

He heard the door slowly open and knew it was Sebastian.

He stayed still, his eyes closed, waiting for Sebastian to come onto him, as he always did.

However, he didn’t feel the bed dip from any side, he only heard a little shuffling from the wardrobe.

He opened his eyes and looked toward the wardrobe, Sebastian stood there, searching for something in there.

He quietly stood from the bed and walked over to Sebastian, hugging him from behind.

Sebastian sighed; he’d heard Zeno approaching him and waited for him to do what he wanted to do. He didn’t say or do something that would upset him again.

"Zeno," Sebastian called quietly.

Zeno hummed, "Sebastian," He slowly turned Sebastian around so he faced him, holding his face.

Sebastian didn’t know what Zeno was feeling at the moment, he raised his hands to hold Zeno but dropped it down beside him again.

Zeno saw Sebastian’s reluctance and took his hands, placing them around his waist, "You can hold me, Seb, I won’t step away," He whispered.

Sebastian sighed and pulled Zeno closer, his arms possessively wrapping around his waist.

"Zeno, I’m sorry for everything, sweetheart, I know invaded the power to stop some few things from getting to this point but I fucked it up anyway, I’m just asking for one last chance to amend everything-"

"Shh..." Zeno placed his finger on Sebastian’s lips.

"No talking. You’re boring me," Zeno chuckled.

Sebastian smiled, "Sorry," He said, lost in Zeno’s eyes.

"Everything is too tiring, we should give ourselves a break. Let’s pretend we’re on a vacation, just you and I, zero worries, no enemies, no threats, no secrets. Just two people insanely in love with each other, what do you say, Seb? Sound good?" Zeno’s arm went around Sebastian’s neck, his eyes shining with affection.

Sebastian gulped, "I’d like that," He replied softly and suddenly lifted Zeno off the floor, wrapping his legs around his waist.

Zeno chuckled, "That’s a good start, don’t disappoint me," He looked at the bed and back at Sebastian.

Sebastian smirked, "I never disappoint, Zeno," He whispered and carried Zeno toward the bed.

 

Chapter 185

They really fucked like they were on a vacation; none of them left the bed the whole day; it felt like taking their hands off each other was a taboo.

"Babe, where are you going?" Zeno asked in a soft voice.

Sebastian placed a gentle kiss on Zeno’s forehead, tracing his fingers along his back. "You need to rest, love," He whispered, kissing Zeno’s lips.

Zeno licked Sebastian’s lips, "You mean we need more rest?" He murmured

Sebastian smirked. "You catch on fast, baby girl." He placed another kiss on Zeno’s forehead before he finally slipped out of bed, his movements fluid and unhurried.

Zeno watched him through half-open eyes as he padded over to the floor-to-ceiling windows, his broad back flexing slightly as he drew the heavy curtains closed. The room lightened instantly, the beams of the moon casting them in a cool, lazy glow.

"Come back," Zeno muttered, his voice softer than he intended.

Sebastian turned, a slow smile spreading across his face. "That almost sounded like you missed me."

Zeno rolled his eyes. "Don’t make me regret saying it."

Sebastian wasted no time slipping back into bed, pulling Zeno flush against him again. He let out a content sigh, pressing a kiss to Zeno’s temple.

"This is how it should’ve always been," He murmured.

Zeno didn’t reply, but his fingers curled slightly against Sebastian’s chest. He didn’t know what would happen when the sun rose the next morning when reality came crashing back in, but for now, for this moment, he let himself sink into Sebastian’s warmth.

***

"What? No way, you go," Andre pushed Ida forward.

They were in Sebastian’s living room debating on who to go wake them up that morning.

Everyone knew that Sebastian and Zeno had been locked in since yesterday, and they wouldn’t have even bothered to wake them if it weren’t for the important message they received from Mr. Orion through Cody.

They hated to disturb the two lovebirds; they were finally catching up with each other and needed all the time they could get.

"Come on, Ida. Zeno’s closer to you, he’ll probably stop the boss from killing you after you’ve disturbed them," Andre drew Ida forcefully to the stairs.

"Stop it, you fucking idiot, you asked me to accompany you, now you want me to deliver the message, get you fucking -’

"Hi, Ida, hi, Andrew," Ken greeted, looking down at them from above the stairs.

"Hi, young boss, what’s up?" Ida bowed his head to him.

"Hi, Ken, will you be a good boy today?" Andre asked.

Ken rolled his eyes, "Onmynof you agree to box with me today," He smiled mischievously.

Ida sighed, shaking his head.

"No way, you little devil, my rib still hurt from the last practice we had, I know that waist a practice, you’re planning to eliminate my handsome existence, so no, I will never box with you, ever again, you’ve got Zeno, go to him," Andre scowled are Ken.

Ken chuckled, "Okay, fine, then." He shrugged and was about to walk off when Ida called him back.

"Hey, wait, Ken," Ida looked up at him.

"Yes, kind, Ida?" Ken smiled widely at him, causing Andre to scoff.

"Devil," Andre muttered.

"Did you have something to say, Andre?" Ken asked.

Andre widened his eyes, "Huh? No, of course not, young boss," He gave Ken a fake smoke, bowing his head.

"Better," Ken rolled his eyes.

"Yes, dear Uncle Ida, I’m listening," He returned his eyes to Ida.

"Um, can I ask you for a favor?" He asked.

Ken nodded, "Of course."

Ida didn’t believe him but he asked anyway.

"Andre has a message for your father, can you help us wake him up? He’s probably still sleeping with Zeno," Ida requested.

Ken’s face could be seen listening up with a mischievous glint as his eyes fell on Andre again, "You said it’s Andre who was a message, right?" He questioned calmly.

"Yes," Ida nodded.

"You’re just dumb, Ida, did you have to say my fucking name?" He whispered.

"Mind your language, Andre, I’m just but a child, innocent and pure, just like my father," He smiled cutely.

"For God’s sake, Ida, that little devil is going to torment my life," Andre was almost crying.

Ida ignored him and spoke to Ken, "It’s Andre who has a message to deliver. Will you help him out?"

Ken nodded, "Yes, I’ll help him disturb my sweet father, but he knows the catch, should I go ahead and wake them up?" He asked Andre.

Andre balled his fists, a huge frown marking his face, he glared at Ida.

He sighed, "Fine, I’ll practice with you, Young boss," He said in a resigned tone.

"Perfect, I love you, Uncle Andre; now quit frowning, or you’ll be single like Ida," He giggled before running off to Sebaroom.

Ida frowned, "Why am I catching story bullets?" He asked Andre.

Andre was angry, he glared heatedly at Ida and rolled his eyes, "Because he’s a devil," He muttered and walked away.

In Sebastian’s room, he was busy hugging Zeno and whispering sweet nothings into his ear, placing slow kisses all over his sleepy face.

"Seb, I still want to sleep, my body aches," Zeno whispered softly.

Sebastian sighed and sniffed Zeno’s hair, "Fuck, Zeno, you’re too perfect, I’m addicted...obsessed with you. You’re precious to me, Zeno; I love you so much," He pulled the covers away from Zeno’s body, and his fingers traced the red marks on Zeno’s skin.

Zeno smiled, "I love you, too, Seb... I don’t ever want to be away from you. You’re my world," He confessed shyly.

Sebastian grabbed his face and kissed him deeply, gently pushing him down on the bed and climbing over him.

Sebastian pulled away from the kiss and Zeno wrapped his arms around him, their breaths mingling as they stared into each other’s eyes.

Sebastian’s caressed Zeno’s face, "I knew you’d mean everything to me the first time I set my eyes on you, something in me flipped," He whispered.

Zeno smiled, "You sure? You were more interested in busting my balls," He put his hands between them and touched Sebastian’s balls, causing him to gasp.

Sebastian’s eyes darkened, "That was my defense mechanism; I saw someone I was instantly attracted to for the first time, and I got scared, scared that I might lose myself to you if I didn’t push you away... your face..." He slowly drew circles with his thumb over Zeno’s cheeks.

"Your face was very angelic as you slept. I almost didn’t want to wake you, but then my insecurities kicked in; if I could feel the reluctance to hurt you, then if you turned out to really be an enemy, I wouldn’t know how to get rid of you. I loved you even before you saw me, Zeno; I was just too scared to admit it," He whispered against Zeno’s lips.

Zeno chuckled, "How romantic. I’m glad I didn’t give up on wanting you, my stubborn Mafia king, even when I felt like my I session wasn’t healthy, I couldn’t still back off, I didn’t give a shit, I wanted you," He moved his head to the side, licking his lips in anticipation.

Sebastian smirked, "I loved that about you, Baby girl; you’re the only person who stood up to me, and that shut turns me on," he slammed his mouth against Zeno’s, kissing him urgently.

His hands were wandering around Zeno’s body, sliding right between his legs.

"Ahh, Seb~" Zeno moaned as Sebastian fisted him sensually.

"Feel good?" Sebastian whispered huskily.

Zeno nodded, "Feels good... ahh~ I love it, baby," His hand food Sebastian’s cock, too, teasing his round tip.

"Baby, let’s do it again, please," Sebastian gasped out.

Zeno pouted, "But I’m sore from all those rounds from yesterday, Seb; we can do it later," He kissed Sebastian’s neck.

Sebastian groaned, he placed a sloppy kiss on Zeno’s lips, "You can do it this time, Love," He whispered.

Zeno paused, slowly blinked, and stared at Sebastian’s face, "Seb, are you serious?" He was breathing heavily as he stared into his eyes.

Sebastian nodded, "I don’t mind moving, Zeno, it doesn’t matter; all we want is to pleasure each other, Baby girl, so do you want to fuck me?" He smirked down at Zeno.

Zeno shivered as he heard Sebastian’s deep voice, wrapping his legs around his waist, "Some people are not meant for that role, baby, I love it when you’re dominant with me. We can try it some other time, but not now. For now..." He put his hand under the pillow and took out a new lube, "Fuck me, Seb, you own me," he bit his lips.

Sebastian smiled as he took the lube from Zeno, opening it immediately, "I’ll be gentle, I promise," He whispered before turning Zeno’s front to the bed, exposing his back to him.

He squirted enough lube on his cock and on Zeno’s opening and gently slid himself in.

"Uhgg~ tight as always, Baby," Sebastian grunted, slowly pushing his cock in and out of Zeno’s whole.

Zeno was moaning softly; the mixture of pain and pleasure was something he didn’t know he’d enjoy; it was giving him feelings he’d never felt before. He lived it.

"Move faster, Seb... faster, ah ~ mmm~" his moans got louder.

Sebastian kissed his shoulders, "Are you sure, baby girl?" His voice was rough and raspy.

"Yes, Seb, faster," He groaned, gripping the sheets with his fingers.

Sebastian gave in, he balanced his weight above Zeno and slammed harder into him, grunting, and panting a,s Zeno’s warm and spasming walls threatened to lock him in.

"Seb, faster, I’m coming, faster..." Zeno turned his face to the side and begged.

"Fuck, Zeno, you asked for it," He gritted his teeth and slid his hand under to Zeno’s neck, gently exerting the right pressure he knew woukd set Zeyou no ablaze as he increased he his hip thrusting, digging deeply into Zeno’s backdoor.

Zeno cried in pleasure, "Oh my God, Sebastian, ah, yes, yes, yes ~" He moaned.

"Shh... Ken’s here," Sebastian coveted his hand over Zeno’s lips and that’s when he realized that Ken was knocking at the door.

"Dad? Are you awake?" Ken asked loudly from the other side of the door.

Sebastian shut hus eyes and breathed fast, "Yes, kiddo, want something?" He quietly grunted as he thrusting quickly into Zeno.

Zeno sucked one of Sebastian’s fingers into his mouth, sucking it like a dick and morning quietly, he needed something in hus mouth that woukd stop him from meaning loudly.

"Shit, Zeno, you’re playing dirty," Sebastian whispered beside Zeno’s ear, thrusting faster, "I’m close, baby, cum with me, so close," He panted.

"It’s Andre, he has something to tell you, are coming down with Zeno, is still sleeping?" Ken’s voice asked again.

"Ah, Seb - mmm..." Sebastian covered Zeno’s mouth once again as he shivered and shook under him.

"Shh... fuck, good job, baby, quietly," He groaned very quietly above Zeno as his cock violently shook and spasmed inside Zeno.

"Dad?" Ken called when he couldn’t hear any response from his father.

"I love you, Zeno," He whispered as he slowly slid out of Zeno.

Zeno immediately hugged and kissed Sebastian, chuckling, "You should go and answer the kid," He said, looking into Sebastian’s eyes.

Sebastian sighed, "He has the worst timing," he murmured.

 

 

Chapter 186

Sebastian hid his smirk as Zeno tried not to wince as he sat on the sofa.

He was sitting beside him in the living room, Andre and Ida in front of them.

"Sit," Sebastian managed to get his eyes off Zeno and ordered his guards.

They bowed and lowered themselves on the couch opposite Sebastian.

"What do you have to say?" Sebastian questioned, his hand gently landing on Zeno’s thigh, slowly grazing his fingers on the side of it.

Zeno placed his hand over Sebastian’s on his thigh, shaking his head at him. Sebastian stopped grazing his fingers but did remove his hand.

Andre cleared his throat; he didn’t want to be there; he could see the marks on Zeno’s neck, and he imagined how the rest of his body would be.

’Boss must be a beast.’

"Something else you want to say, Andre?" Sebastian asked darkly as he caught Andre staring at Zeno’s neck.

Andre blinked rapidly, removing his eyes from Zeno and looking at Ida beside him.

"Ah, no, boss, I’ve got a message from your father," He said.

Zeno frowned and looked at Sebastian; he hoped it wasn’t something problematic again.

"What did he say?" Sebastian took Zeno’s hand and brought it over to his lap, rubbing slow circles in his palm, but he kept his eyes locked on Andre, waiting for his reply.

"It’s about Zeno’s -"

"Boss’" Sebastian corrected.

Andre nodded, "I’m sorry, my apologies. It’s about -"

"Wait, hold on, Andre," Zeno looked at Sebastian with narrowed eyes, "Babe, they don’t have to call me that; Zeno is just fine, okay?" He asked quietly.

Sebastian frowned, "But, you and I -"

"Come on, it doesn’t change anything, just let them call me by my name," Zeno touched Sebastian’s arm.

Sebastian nodded, "Okay," he leaned down and kissed Zeno’s lips.

"Stop it," Zeno playfully pushed him away.

"Why are we here?" Andre whispered to Ida.

"Witnesses," Ida replied, looking sad.

Sebastian and Zeno were rubbing his singleness on his face, just like Ken had done.

"Seb quit it; Andre has something important to say," Zeno pushed Sebastian away but didn’t move away from his arms.

Sebastian had his arm around Zeno’s waist, holding him close to himself. "Go on, Andre," He said in a serious tone.

Andre nodded, ’Now they have time for me.’

"Mr. Orion said that Zeno’s parents are ready to come to France, Paris. But he’s asking why you haven’t found and eliminated the enemy?" Andre informed.

Sebastian’s face hardened, and he could feel Zeno staring at his face; he was scared that Zeno might get upset with the whole news.

"It’s okay, Seb. It’s a good thing they want to come here, I have a ton of questions for them. However, we have to find who the enemies are, right?" Zeno smiled up at Sebastian, chuckling when he saw the relief wash over Sebastian’s face.

Sebastian looked at his face, "You’re not angry? You’re not going to start blaming me for anything?" He asked in a low voice.

"No, why would I do that? I just want everything to end quickly so we can officially start dating," Zeno winked.

Ida suddenly cleared his throat, shifting uncomfortably on the sofa.

"Go drink some water from the fridge, Ida," Sebastian ordered in a calm but dangerous tone.

Ida immediately stood and bowed, "Yes, boss, sorry about that," He sent Zeno a secret look before walking away from the living room.

’Great, now it’s just me,’ Andre clasped his hands in front of him.

"So, is there any clue to finding this mysterious enemy?" Zeno asked Andre.

Andre thought for a while, "He didn’t particularly mention it, but I’ve once heard him saying that the people to look out for in Paris are the least expected people... if that makes sense," He muttered the last part.

"No, Andre, that doesn’t make sense," Sebastian sighed.

"When is Sakura coming in?" Sebastian asked.

"Um, tonight," Andre answered.

Sebastian turned to Zeno, "If you’re not comfortable with her staying in the house, we can find a hotel for them," He whispered.

Zeno shook his head, "Nah, she’s good. She has a lover already, and she’s not a threat. She can stay, the house is boring with just both of us," He smiled.

"Did someone say boring?" Ken suddenly appeared and jumped between Zeno and Sebastian, wriggling his body until he fit perfectly between them.

"Am I a joke to you? I thought you said I was fun. Did you lie?" Ken climbed Zeno’s lap, staring at his face.

"Ouch, Ken, my body hurts; no, I didn’t lie... there’s never a dull moment with you, right, Andre?" Zeno looked at Andre for help.

’Fuck you, Zeno,’ Andre cursed silently.

Why did everyone have to draw him into the conversation with Ken? He had thought he would escape after the conversation with Sebastian and Zeno, but not anymore; Ken was going to make sure he kept to his word and practiced with him.

"Of course, Zeno, Ken is such a star. He lightens up the whole place when he enters," Andre replied.

"Really, Andre? I thought you said I was a devil," Ken pouted, looking at his father.

Andre froze, feeling Sebastian’s eyes in him, "No, come on, Kenneth; I would never say that. How about we go practice some boxing now?" Andre stood and held out his hand to Ken.

"Zeno, join me?" Ken was excited to have Zeno around; he placed his forehead on Zeno’s and blinked cutely, "Please, I want to show you how good I’ve gotten; I use to beat his ass every time," he pointed to Andre.

Zeno chuckled, "That’s awesome, Ken, but I’m not feeling very strong today; maybe tomorrow?" He asked gently.

Ken sighed, "Okay, tomorrow, promise?" He asked.

Zeno nodded, "Yes, I’ll even take you to my gym, and you’ll compete with children your age," He informed.

"Great, easy-peasy, I’ll send them crying to their Moma, just like Andre," He laughed happily.

Zeno laughed, "Yeah, poor Andre, the guy doesn’t stand a chance in front of you," He teased Andre, laughing when he saw the enraged look on Andre’s face.

"Kenneth, get off him, he’s not feeling alright," Sebastian held Ken’s waist and was about to lift him off Zeno when Ken suddenly hugged Zeno’s neck

"What happened to your neck? Daddy, look, it’s, it’s, it’s, it’s a... what do you call this? It looks like blood, but it’s inside his skin. Does it hurt? Maybe we should take you to the hospital? Did Dad do this to you?" He paused and turned to face e Sebastian.

"Dad, did you hurt Zeno’s neck? Why? You’re going to make him leave again if you keep hurting him this way. Why did you do it?" Ken glared at his father.

"That... that’s why he’s staying, Kenneth. Just go practice your boxing, Zeno’s fine," Sebastian carried the boy away from Zeno.

Andre bit the insides of his lips to stop himself from laughing at the hilarious situation.

"I’ll ask Ida to get some ice for you, okay? Stay away from Dad until you’re fine, okay?" Ken asked as Abdre dragged him away from the living room.

"I will, Kenneth. Thanks for your concern," Zeno smiled.

"Leave me, Andre, I can walk," Ken snatched his hand away from Andre and ran out of the house, Andre hurried after him.

"I don’t blame Andre for calling him a devil," Sebastian sighed.

"He’s learning from the best," Zeno said.

Sebastian smirked, "Is he now? You know I’m an angel,"

Zeno grimaced, "Oh, please, that’s a word you should never mention. You’re completely opposite of that word: Angel," He rolled his eyes.

Sebastian shrugged, "Maybe..." He sat beside Zeno, leaning into him.

"So, are you going to stay away from me like Ken asked?" Sebastian whispered.

Zeno chuckled, "For today? Yes, I would, I can barely walk, Seb," He replied.

"Not even if I go slow?" Sebastian started to slip his hand into Zeno’s pants.

Zeno immediately held Sebastian’shand, "Sebastian, control yourself. This is a living room. Remember what happened the last time," he warned.

Sebastian bit his lips and stared at Zeno’s face, "So, if I carry you up to the room, you’ll let me go slow?" He whispered into Zeno’s ear.

Zeno lucked his lips, "It’s tempting, Seb, but I know I’ll end up asking you to go faster, and if I do, I might not just walk for a whole week," He pushed Sebastian away.

Sebastian was about to move close again when someone walked in from the entrance.

"He said no, Sebastian. As a gentleman, consent should always come first, right, Zeno?" Ezra walked in, Nicholas beside him.

Zeno was surprised and happy to see them, "You’re right, Ezra. Hi, Nicholas, Miss me?" He smiled.

"Nah, better off without you," Nicholas walked away from Ezra and took a single couch.

"You know you don’t mean that," Zeno chuckled.

"I don’t, the club’s boring without you," Nicholas laughed.

"Why are you both here? Tired of fucking each other?" Sebastian smirked at Nicholas, who looked like a deer caught in a headlight.

"Huh? What do you mean, Seb? Ezra and Nicholas... fucking?" Zeno looked at the proud look on Ezra’s face and confirmed what Sebastian had said.

"Don’t listen to Sebastian," Nicholas denied, glaring at Sebastian.

"Oh, come on, babe, I already told Sebastian, chill; Zeno will understand; he knows how hard it is to stay away from someone you love," Ezra approached Nicholas and squatted in front of him, "Or, you don’t love me as you said?" He whispered.

Nicholas sighed, "Stop asking stupid questions, Doc, just go sit somewhere," He smiled.

"Nicholas, I thought we were friends? Why did you hide it from me?" Zeno narrowed his eyes.

Nicholas looked at Ezra and sighed, "It happened suddenly, I was trying to find time to tell you, but, tadda, now you know," He stared at Zeno’s confused face.

"You could have done better, Nicholas, Ezra is lame," Sebastian smirked.

"Babe, don’t start," Zeno pinched Sebastian’s arm.

"No, let him start, I’m ready for him," Ezra chuckled.

"Sebastian, you should have let Zeno when he wanted to do better with Leon; he’s sexier than you are; that’s probably why you felt so insecure and jealous, right, sugar?" He asked Nicholas, who nodded in agreement.

Sebastian stood and approached Ezra, "One more time, say it again," His voice was low and dangerous.

"Leon is better, sexier, and... good in -"

"Don’t say it, Doc; he might actually punch you for that last part," Nicholas crosses his legs together, enjoying the show.

"You know what, say it, Ezra," Zeno relaxed, yawning.

"None of you are trying to stop us from fighting?" Sebastian asked Zeno, disappointed.

"Yeah, baby, you too?" Ezra looked at Nicholas.

"They’re so lame, Nick. We should really have done better," Zeno smiled.

"Absolutely," Nicholas nodded.

"Get off my face," Sebastian pushed Ezra and returned to Zeno.

"You don’t mean it, right?" Sebastian asked.

"Maybe...maybe not," Zeno shut his eyes and relaxed back.

Sebastian was about to say something when his phone rang.

"Who’s that?" Zeno questioned, opening his eyes to look at Sebastian’s phone.

Sebastian frowned, "My mother," He was surprised, his mother never called.

 

 

Chapter 187

"What do you think the mother is saying to him?" Nicholas asked Zeno.

Zeno shook his head, his eyes not living Sebastian’s figure pacing around the dining room.

"I don’t know, but, I know it’s something not good," Zeno frowned.

"Chill, guys, it’s not going to be that serious; his mother only wants her son to love her life before; she’s probably making small talk with her distant son," Ezra tried to convince them.

Nicholas scoffed, "We’ll see,"

Zeno was quietly observing Sebastian when his phone suddenly started ringing too, "What now?" He picked it up and loomed at Nicholas.

"Did you accept a booking from him on my behalf?" Zeno asked Nicholas, showing him the ID of the caller.

Nicholas sighed, "No, I didn’t. He did call for a booking, but I told him you wouldn’t be working with me anymore; he sounded a little heartbroken during the call and said he would call you to confirm; I asked him not to, and I never knew he would. I’m sorry," He explained.

Zeno sighed, "I’ll be back in a minute," he said and stepped out of the house with his phone.

"Hello, Cassian?" Zeno stood in front of the building; he was too lazy to put the phone on his ear, so he placed it on speaker, holding it up.

"Hi, Zeno... um, I know I should call you directly for bookings, but I was wrong about if you were available to accompany me to a gala that night; it’ll just be an hour, I promise, please?" Cassian asked gently.

Zeno sighed, the job wasn’t appealing anymore, he was doing it to forget about Sebastian, and maybe even to spite him, but they were back together and he loved him more than ever, agreeing to this kind of job would cause hitches in their relationship and he didn’t want that, they already got enough hitches, creating more himself would be a dumb idea.

"I’m sorry, Cassian, I can’t go with you. I’m sure Nicholas already informed you that I no longer work with his firm, so why not choose someone else? There are a lot of good guys on there; it must not be me," Zeno politely rejected Cassian’s offer.

"Okay, I understand, I mean, I’m kinda glad you’re no longer working there. Maybe now you can really give me a chance to date you? How about you join me tonight as my date?" Cassian’s excited voice sounded through the phone.

Zeno sighed, "Cassian, I’ve really not got time this morning, I have things I’m doing, but I’ll just run you a quick one. You remember Sebastian, the man you’re family is currently-"

"Yes, Zeno, I do remember him, everyone knows Mr. Orion, you did mention he’s your ex, but I promise I’ll do better than him, just give me a -"

"I’m back with him, Cassian, actually, I never really stopped loving him. It’s part of the reason why I never wanted to let anyone in. You’re a fine man, and I’m sure that finding your own person wouldn’t be hard; you’re only but a client turned friend to me, let’s make it awkward between us, in case we meet in Sebastian’s resort someday," Zeno chuckled.

Cassian was silent for a while, "Did you really have to get back with him? You can tell me if he forced-"

"Enough, Cass -"

"Trying to steak my boyfriend, Mr. Leroy?" Sebastian suddenly spoke behind Zeno, pulling him close to himself.

"Uh, Mr. Sebastian?" Cassian sounded shocked.

He took the phone from Zeno, "That’s right, Mr. Leroy; as a matter of fact, Zeno will be at the gala tonight, but not as your escort, not even as your friend. Here’s some advice: don’t get close to him, do you understand?" Sebastian’s voice was threatening.

Cassian cleared his throat, "I understand, Mr. Sebastian," He said.

"Good," Sebastian said and ended the call.

"You’re being naughty, Zeno," He gently turned Zeno to face him.

Zeno frowned, "Forget Cassian; he’s not important; tell me what your mother said," Zeno asked.

Sebastian sighed, "She’ll be here tonight, but don’t worry, she won’t be staying in my house, she’s just here for the gala, my Father asked her to come in his stead, don’t worry, there will be no trouble tonight, just you and I in the boring gala, and after a while, we’ll be back home, alone," He kissed Zeno’s cheek.

"Fine," Zeno nodded.

"Hungry?" Sebastian asked.

"Starving, you drained me," Zeno smiled.

"Come on, then," Sebastian led him back into the house.

"So we have a gala to attend tonight, but who’s going to welcome Sakura?" Ezra asked.

"Ida and Claudia, trust me, she doesn’t even want to see me," Sebastian replied, drawing out a chair from under the dining table for Zeno.

"Ah, I get it," Nicholas grinned.

Ezra smirked, "You should, it’s just like when you and I want our alone time," he winked at Nicholas

Nicholas widened his eyes, "Shameless, Doc., shameless," He sipped his glass of water.

Zeno only smiled, happy that Nicholas finally found someone who cherished him.

***

"Come on, baby, she knows about us," Sebastian tugged Zeno’s hand as they stood in front of the talk building where the gala was held.

Zeno sighed, "I know, Seb, I just don’t want drama," He hooked his arm around Sebastian’s.

"No drama, I promise," Sebastian kissed the back of his hand and led him toward the building.

They walked into the already filled-up hall, and the first thing Zeno saw was the open display of weapons in a glass case mounted on the stage; he frowned; was this allowed?

"Seb, why are they displaying weapons in a gala?" Zeno whispered.

Sebastian chuckled, "This is strictly Mafia gala, babe, they want to bid the most dangerous weapon to the highest bidder," He placed a hand on Zeno’s waist, pulling him close, "Scared?" He asked beside Zeno’s ear.

Zeno scoffed, "No. I didn’t just know that it was a mafia-only gala," he shrugged.

"Well, maybe you should also know -"

"Good evening, boss," A suited man approached them and bowed to Sebastian.

Sebastian nodded at the man, "Done?" He asked the man.

"Yes, boss," The man bowed and walked away.

Zeno stared at Sebastian with a curious frown, "So?" He asked.

Sebastian sighed, "That’s what I was trying to tell you before he interrupted; the gala is hosted by my father, so I had asked one of his men to take out a few of the best weapons for me, just for collection," He winked.

Zeno furrowed his brows, "Really? So why isn’t he here?" He questioned.

"I’m here; my mother is somewhere here; that’s more than enough; plus, he’s got stuff to handle over there with your parents before they can come over here, remember?" Sebastian raised a brow, leading Zeno toward a nicely dressed lady in a black gown, who was standing a bit far away from the displayed weapon.

"Um, okay, I get it, but hey, where are we going? Wait, Seb, that’s your -"

"Madre," Sebastian tapped the woman’s shoulder.

Mrs. Orion turned her head to the side, smiling when she saw Sebastian.

"Hi, son," She hugged Sebastian, kissing his cheeks.

She stepped back and stared at Zeno, "And you must be the young nan who has my Don wrapped around his finger," She smiled at Zeno, spreading her arms for him.

"Um..." Zeno cleared his throat and glanced at Sebastian.

"Come on, Zeno, I don’t bite," Mrs. Orion gently encouraged Zeno.

"No, no, that’s not what I thought," Zeno slowly walked into her open arms and let her hug him; he awkwardly hugged her back, biting his lips.

"It’s nice to officially meet you, Zeno Evander, my son almost caused the third world war when I asked him not to meet you here," She chuckled, staring at his face as she stepped away from him.

Zeno blushed, "Ah, I didn’t know that; nice to meet you, too, Mrs. Orion," He said politely.

He never believed that a day would come when he’d be casually speaking to any of Sebastian’s parents; he was surprised and happy; it meant that their relationship had the right support.

"Please, call me Madre, just like Sebastian," She touched Zeno’s face.

"Alright, I will," Zeno smiled back, happy.

Sebastian was quietly standing aside, watching his mother interact with his boyfriend; at that moment, he decided to forgive her for Georgia Einstein’s case. It was all in the past; everyone has moved on and healed.

Zeno was his healing, it was time for a fresh start.

"You see? She wasn’t that bad," Sebastian stepped forward and wrapped his arm around Zeno’s waist, "Trust me, she expects another child from us; that’s why she’s being nice," He whispered into Zeno’s ear.

Zeno’s eyes widened as he snapped his head to glared at Sebastian, "Stop joking around," He whispered.

Sebastian smiled and shook his head, "I’m not joking, she told me herself; she’s always using Sakura and Claudia as an example; she hasn’t told you yet because she’d just met you and doesn’t want to freak you out," He said seriously.

Zeno was speechless, he stared at Sebastian’s face and wondered if he knew ew the full meaning of his words.

"Come on, boys, let’s go sit at my table," Mrs. Orion took Zeno’s hand and led her away from Sebastian.

Zeno looked helplessly at Sebastian, who was just smirking at him as he followed them behind.

"Here, Zeno, you can tell me what you want to eat or drink; I’ll get it for you," She drew a chair for Zeno to sit on.

Zeno wanted to refuse, feeling awkward, he was the one who was supposed to draw out a chair for her.

"Thank you, Madre," He smiled and sat down.

"You’re welcome, Cutie," She replied.

"Come, Sebastian, you’re helping me carry some food," She ordered and walked away.

Sebastian blew an air kiss to Zeno, "Be right back," He said and followed his mother away.

Zeno sighed, calming his anxious nerves, everything was happening fast.

Sebastian stood like a waiter with a tray in his hand as his mother dropped different dishes onto it.

"I think that’s more than enough, Madre; he can’t even finish one dish," Sebastian said with a frown.

Mrs. Orion scoffed, "You’re not him, you wouldn’t know,"

Sebastian sighed, "I’m his boyfriend; I know enough," He rolled his eyes.

"Well, it’s unfortunate; if you were his husband, I would have believed you, but a boyfriend can only know to a certain limit. A husband knows all," She smiled at him, "Now, Mr. Boyfriend, walk," She ordered and walked away from him.

Something was wrong as they walked back to the table, the smiles fell from their faces, replaced with apprehension and fear.

Mrs. Orion was the first to stand beside the chair Zeno was sitting in, clearing her throat, "Don’t panic, Son, he might have just stepped out for some fresh air," She tried to lessen the tension.

Sebastian dropped the food on the table and picked up a small white card in front of Zeno’s table.

"He didn’t go out for any fucking air, Madre," He showed her the cars.

Mrs. Orion blinked and focused on the card, "Got him." She read out, her face paling.

"Oh no, they got him," she gasped

 

 

Chapter 188

Zeno was sitting on his chair when he felt a tap behind him.

He turned his head to the side and was surprised to find Gerald standing behind him. "Gerald?" He called with a small smile.

"Fancy seeing you here, Zeno," Gerald gave a friendly smile.

Zeno nodded, "Yeah, so, you’re in the Mafia too?" He asked.

Gerald shook his head, "No, I’m only a friend of a Mafia."

"Okay, do you want to join me?" Zeno tapped the chair beside him.

Gerald shook his head. "Actually, I walked over to speak to you about something," He said.

Zeno frowned, "If it’s about business, I’m not disposed to talk about work right now; I’m here with my boyfriend," He pointed to Sebastian, who was standing at the corner of the hall with a large tray in his hands.

Gerald chuckled, "No, no, it’s not about work. Well, I’m here as a spokesman for Cassian, he pleaded with me to convince you to step out with me. He just wants to tell you something very important. Don’t ask me what, I don’t know either, I’m just a messenger," He smiled.

Zeno frowned. "I’m sorry, tell him I can’t come out and meet him, he can text me if it’s that important," He informed.

Gerald sighed, "Alright, I’m texting him your reply right away - Oh! He replied," He placed his phone in front of Zeno, allowing him to read Cassian’s reply.

"It’s about your parents." Zeno read out loud.

He froze, ’How did Cassian know about my parents?’ He wondered.

He snapped his head to Gerald, "What does he know?" He turned serious immediately.

"What do you know?" Zeno fiercely glared at Gerald.

Gerald picked his phone up, shaking his head clueless. "I really have no idea. I had just followed Cassian here because he asked me to, every other thing, I don’t have an idea about it." He cleared his throat.

"Well, my job here is done; I see yummy food around the hall; I better go fill my tummy. Enjoy your night, Zeno," He patted Zeno’s shoulder and walked away.

Zeno watched him leave.

He was restless, from experience, he knew it would be a bad choice to go out and meet Cassian. He no longer trusted people easily, especially after Leon’s episode.

For Cassian to mention his parents meant that he wasn’t as innocent as he thought he was. He needed to get to Sebastian and tell him about Cassian’s text.

His mind was made up; he was going to tell Sebastian it was safer with him beside him.

"Mr. Evander," Zeno saw a tall middle-aged man block his path.

He immediately knew the man was in danger.

He slowly looked around; the Orion’s guards were everywhere, but was it a good choice for him to call out to them?

"I wouldn’t do that if I were you, Mr. Evander. There is a sniper on your boyfriend over there, if you want him dead in a second, if not, then walk with me, Mr. Evander," The man said in a low voice.

Zeno balled his fists, his eyes once again going to Sebastian; he was smiling at something his mother was saying to him, clueless about what was happening.

He clenched his jaws and nodded at the man, "I’ll go with you," He would always choose to protect Sebastian, even if it meant sacrificing himself.

The man nodded at Zeno, silently asking him to walk ahead.

Zeno sighed and turned away from Sebastian’s direction, walking away from him.

He walked out of the, the man walking close behind him.

"The white car," The man said.

Zeno nodded and looked in the direction of the car.

He subtly took his phone out of the car, took a picture of the license number, and quickly sent it to Sebastian and then the phone; he hoped it helped.

He quickly turned on his location to let Sebastian easily locate him to wherever they were taking him.

As he approached the car, the door slowly slid open, "I’m sorry, young man, I have to take that from you," the man stood in front of Zeno and snatched his phone from him.

Zeno gritted his teeth, anger consuming him.

He stared at the man, "You think you can get away with this?" He asked.

The man didn’t show any expression, "The sniper is still active, disobey and he dies, or quietly get in the car,"

Zeno frowned, helpless and feeling very useless, "You’re in my way," He said to the man.

The man nodded and stepped out of the way.

Zeno bent his head and got in the dark car, sitting on the chair beside the door.

He heard a sound behind him and was about to look behind when he felt a needle pierce his neck.

"Fuck!" He growled before the darkness consumed him.

Zeno knew that once again, he had been kidnapped.

***

Zeno opened his eyes, feeling slightly drowsy, but every other thing was fine.

He wasn’t even chained or tied. It left him wondering if he was really kidnapped or if this was a trick played on him.

He looked over the quiet, unfamiliar room; it was a living room full of simple furniture and homely decor.

He was sitting on a blue sofa; his shoe was placed beside the sofa; Zeno was starting to wonder who it was that kept him there. If it was really Cassian, then it meant that he did not kidnap him to hurt him. This must be one of the classic scenes where someone gets kidnapped and locked up by his rejected lover.

But he couldn’t just ignore the fact that Cassian did mention his parents; that canceled out the idea of him kidnapping him just because he was to serve with him; it had to be something connected to the Mafia, too.

He heard a door creak open and snapped his head ahead, his eyes narrowing. "Cassian..." He called, feeling extremely betrayed.

Cassian looked troubled as he walked over to Zeno. "Zeno," He lowered himself in front of Zeno, taking his hand.

Zeno frowned, "Cassian, what’s going on?" He questioned.

"Are you okay? Were you hurt?" Cassian asked, slowly rubbing Zeno’s hand.

Zeno withdrew his hand from Cassian’s and shifted away from him, "If you’re not willing to tell me what’s going on, then step away from me, I need to leave. Sebastian must be worried sick about me," he wanted to stand up but Cassian placed his hand on his thigh, stopping him.

"No, no, Zeno, please, listen, you can’t leave, we can’t leave, there are -"

"Weldone, son. You have made me proud, finally," Mr. Leroy marched into the living room, a glass of wine in his hand.

Zeno scoffed, "So you’re really Mafia. You came close to me all these while so you could do this right? You were never my friend; why have you deceived me?" He questioned.

Cassian shook his head, "No, Zeno, everything we’ve had has been real; if only you followed Geral out of the hall, I would have told you everything, Zeno; I promise I’m not in this with my father." He explained.

"Calm down, my boy. You’re not as guiltless as you think, you’ve always known our family was one of the largest Mafia in Paris, and you have also known that I had a little misunderstanding with Mr. Evander. You just helped me bring his greatest weakness to my doorstep." Mr. Leroy chuckled.

He sat on the sofa in front of Zeno, sipping his wine, "You’re surprised?" Mr. Leroy chuckled.

"You see, your parents chose the wrong partner. They were supposed to be with me, to make my business boom smoothly. But they chose the stronger party the Orion’s..." He smiled.

"I’m sorry, Zeno if I knew that you were Mr. Evander’s son, I would have stayed far away from you and not led you to my father’s trap; I have no hand in this," Cassian spoke quietly.

Zeno stood and walked over to Mr. Leroy, he stood in front of him and glared at him, "What’s all this nonsense, Leroy? How am I a part of your business with my parents? You do know that you might lose your life on this path you have chosen, right?" He chuckled.

"Well, we’ll see when your parents get here. If I don’t receive the transfer of every single share they have, I don’t know; I might hurt you. I’m a petty man, Zeno, and I’m still angry about their betrayal of me. Sit still; my intel told me they’re on their way; let’s hope they get here on time. I’m not a very patient man," Mr. Leroy replied, smirking.

"What the fuck do you think you’re doing, Father?! You’re going to draw the family down with you! Stop this madness at once!" Cassian suddenly slapped the wine out of Mr. Leroy’s hand, angry.

Mr. Leroy only smiled, "Calm down, my son, soon, The Orions will no longer be the most feared, it will be the Leroys, our -"

A man suddenly barged into the room, drawing their attention to him; Zeno recognized him as the man who had met him at the gala.

"Boss, we have been breached, the - argh!" The man suddenly stopped speaking; a bullet was shot through the back of his head, creating a small hole between his eyes.

He fell to the floor, his eyes closing, dead.

Zeno smirked and turned to Mr. Leroy, "It’s too late now, Leroy," he said to Mr. Leroy, who was on his feet, shock written all over his face.

"No fucking way..." Mr. Leroy murmured.

 

 

Chapter 189

Sebastian was driving to the location where Mr. Leroy’s car was parked.

He had gotten the message from Zeno and immediately set out to find him.

Mr. Leroy must think he was a fool, he had known all this whole that he was involved with the Mafia. That was why he did a background check on him the moment he came to Paris; he found out all his hideouts, and he knew the exact one he had taken Zeno. However, he never suspected that Mr. Leroy would be the one they’d been searching for; his records never mentioned that he’d been affiliated with Zeno’s parents; if he knew, he would never have let Cassian near Zeno, and he would definitely not have gotten involved with the Leroy’s.

He had asked his father’s men to send his mother home before asking Andre to drive him to Zeno’s location.

His phone rang for the third time and he decided to answer it this time, "Father," he spoke.

He frowned as he listened to what was said.

"You’ve messed up big time, son, and this time, you can’t blame me for not being together with Zeno in the end. This time, it’s on you, unless you manage to find a way out for yourself," his father said.

Sebastian frowned, "What do you mean, Father? Tell me something if you know something, Father?" He stared at his phone and realized that his Father had ended the call the moment he finished speaking.

"Damn, drive faster, Andre," He sighed, tapping his feet on the floor of the car.

His phone rang again, and he quickly answered it, thinking his father was calling back, but frowned when he heard Sakura’s voice.

"Hi, Sebastian, I’ve just arrived -"

"Well, talk later, Sakura. I’ve got to manage something right now," He ended the call and threw the phone on the other side of the seat.

His eyes remained on the road until their car stopped in front of the small building where Mr. Leroy was hiding Zeno, but, something was off.

He quickly got out of the car and frowned; from the door of the house, he saw men lying dead; their blood was still flowing slowly, indicating that it had been a long time since they were killed.

"Check-in," He ordered Andre.

Andre nodded and pulled out his gun before stealthily going inside the house.

He soon emerged and shook his head at Sebastian, "Same as outside, boss," He informed.

Sebastian couldn’t understand what was happening; he stepped into the house and realized that the living room looked messed up with hikes on the walks and sofas, glasses broken, and tables broken.

Someone else was here, probably Mr. Leroy’s rival, and had taken him away with Zeno. He knew they were still alive because he could only see the bodies of Mr. Leroy’s men lying around the floor.

Whoever this rival was really unarmed Mr. Leroy, they left no survivor.

He was about to leave the house when he saw Zeno’s shoes beside the sofa, he quickly picked them up and marched toward the exit.

"Boss, I think a phone is vibrating in his pocket," Andre pointed to the man lying in front of the door.

"Get it," Sebastian said and left the building.

Andre quickly went over to the man and fished the phone out of his pocket, "I’ll be damned," He muttered and quickly hurried over to the car.

He got in and handed the phone to Sebastian, "Boss, it’s Zeno’s phone," He said.

Sebastian took it from him with a frown; the man must have taken it from Zeno when he realized he was sending him a location; too bad he was dead already; he would have loved to kill the man himself.

The phone suddenly vibrated and Sebastian read the message on the screen.

He sighed and handed the phone to Andre, "We have just ten minutes to get to that location," he said.

"On it, Boss," Andre said and stepped on the gas, driving away from the massacre scene.

Sebastian was quiet but his head was loud with wandering thoughts.

Who got Zeno now?

Was he alright?

What do they want?

Andre kept to time; Sebastian was surprised to see his car pulling up in front of a mansion, a beautiful one at that.

And for him to be amazed by the mansion spine volumes of how luxurious it looked.

The moment their car parked in front of it, they were surrounded by armed guards.

Again, Sebastian was surprised that someone was trying to match up with his wealth.

"Boss, we’re surrounded, how do we get out of the car?" Andre asked quietly, looking around at the mean bodyguards who were standing around their car.

"Unlock the doors," Sebastian ordered.

If they wanted to hark them, they wouldn’t have let them drive all the way in, and they were the ones who asked them to meet here, so they weren’t going to hurt them.

"Yes, boss," Andre replied.

Sebastian slowly opened the door and stepped out of the car, his hands raised beside his head to show that he came in peace.

One of the guards approached him and searched him from head to toe, taking out the guns he found in his body.

"You’re Mr. Sebastian?" The bodyguard asked.

Sebastian smirked, "You know it," He replied.

The bodyguard didn’t like his reply, he frowned, "If you want to proceed inside, you will have to answer all my questions, are you, Mr. Sebastian Orion -"

"Sebastian, you kept to time. What’s going on here? Get your men away, Kelvin, we’ve been waiting for him inside," Nana came out from the mansion and went to Sebastian; the bodyguards made way for her as she approached.

Sebastian was first surprised before realization dawned on him.

"Nana?" He called with narrowed eyes.

Andre, who was standing beside Sebastian, couldn’t believe his eyes; he wondered why he never suspected the sweet old lady.

She hooked her arm around Sebastian’s and started to lead him inside the house; Andre slowly followed them behind, not after giving Kelvin a victorious smirk.

"Zeno’s been waiting, took you long enough to find him," Nana chuckled.

Sebastian shook his head, "His parents, huh?" He asked as they walked through the huge door.

Nana shrugged, "You’ll find out," She replied as she led him into the massive living room.

Sebastian’s radar immediately found Zeno, comfortably sitting on the sofa, his back facing him.

He knew Zeno was still unaware of his presence, so he quietly removed his hand from Nana and slowly approached Zeno. However, as he was about to place his hand on Zeno’s shoulder, he felt a gun behind his head; his eyes were rather focused on Zeno’s fed ey

"Don’t lay your hands on my son, Sebastian Orion," He heard a man’s voice behind him.

Zeno immediately snapped his head behind him and met Sebastian’s frozen gaze, he quickly moved his gaze to the person behind Sebastian.

"Dad, what are you doing?" Zeno asked cautiously.

"You cried?" Sebastian asked calmly, focusing on Zeno’s red eyes, ignoring the gun behind his head.

Zeno walked around the sofa and stood beside his father, "Take the gun away from him, Dad," He said in a calm tone.

"This is why we hid our identity from you, Zeno. We’ve protected you for years, just for you to form and end up with a Mafia, life is dangerous; you can’t survive the cruelty," Mr. Evander said, anger simmering in his voice.

Zeno scoffed, "I would have been dead two years ago if not for Sebastian’s protection; at least he was honest about who he was; that’s why I fell in love with him. If you didn’t want that to happen, you should have never left me in his care in the first place," He reasoned.

"Love?" Mr. Evander chuckled.

"There’s no such thing as love for a young Mafia. He’s bound to break your heart, either from external pressure, or family pressure," Mr. Evander cocked his gun.

"Does that mean you cheated on your poor wife when you were younger, Mr. Evander?" Sebastian turned and stared right at the gun, his eyes calm.

Zeno muttered a gun, "This is not the time to get cocky," He frowned at Sebastian.

"Don’t worry, babe, he’s not gonna kill me, he knows it’ll hurt you, and he wouldn’t want to hurt you more than he’d already done," Sebastian smirked.

Mr. Evander chuckled, "I dare you to say it again," He pressed the gun harder against Sebastian’s head.

Sebastian was about to speak when Nana dragged a woman to the scene, "Ask your husband to stop his madness this instant," Nana said to the woman.

The woman sighed and approached Mr. Evander, "Quit being a child, Carlos, let the kids be; you have Mr. Leroy waiting for you down there," The woman smiled at Zeno before pulling the gun out of Mr. Evander’s hand.

Sebastian knew without a doubt that she was Zeno’s mother; he was a striking image of his mother; he even had her blue eyes.

"But -"

"No buts, Carlos, go attend to Leroy, and you can come join me and the boys later," Mrs. Evander said to her husband.

Mr. Evander gave Sebastian a pointed look, "Jeep your hands away from my son, Son of Orion," He warned before waking away.

Zeno sighed in relief and hugged Sebastian tightly.

"I told you they were inseparable," Nana whispered to Zeno’s mother.

Mrs. Evander smiled and cleared her throat, "Hello, Sebastian, I’m Irene, Zeno’s mother," She introduced herself, offering him a handshake.

Sebastian slightly lowered his head in respect and shook her hand, "Nice to meet you, Irene," He kissed the back of her hand.

Irene smiled, glancing at Nana, "Please, sit down, Sebastian. I might have saved you from my husband, but that doesn’t mean I approve of you and my son. Unless you prove otherwise, please, let’s get sitted," She took Zeno’s hand and led him away from Sebastian.

 

Chapter 190

Zeno was sitting beside his mother while Sebastian and Nana sat in front of them.

Sebastian cleared his throat, "Respectfully, Irene, I wouldn’t want you to waste your time... and my time. If what you want to ask is for me to leave him," He pointed at Zeno with a smile, "I’m afraid that’s an impossible request, Irene. Maybe you should focus on building your relationship from the ground again with him. Your so-called secret almost broke him, mend that; that’s what you and your husband should do for your child and not suddenly try to be the protective parents after leaving him unprotected for two years. So, Irene, Zeno is mine, and I’m him; we’ve come so far to be separated by a cliche parent," He winked at Zeno.

"Right, Baby girl?" He asked.

Zeno resisted the urge to smile, "You’re right. But, you don’t have to worry, she’s just messing with you, it’s my father who’s the stubborn one, but he’ll come through," He chuckled.

Irene sighed, "Fine, you guys can’t even let me play the strict mother for a second," She pouted.

"Dinner is served, madam," A maid came and informed them, bowed her head, and left.

Nana stood, "I don’t know about you all, but I’m starving," She stood and walked away.

Sebastian took his eyes to Zeno.

Irene watched his son stand from her side without a second glance at her and walk over to his Mafia boyfriend, leaving her behind.

"Right, no one cares about the mother," She muttered.

"Come on, Mom, don’t play the victim," Zeno called as Sebastian’s arm possessively went around his waist on their way to the dining.

"I hope your bed is sturdy enough, Zeno," Sebastian whispered beside his ear as Zeno lowered himself onto the chair he had drawn out for him.

Zeno paused and turned to stare at Sebastian, "What do you mean?" He asked in a quiet voice.

Sebastian smirked, "You know what I mean... you nearly gave me a heart attack tonight; I need a great deal of compensation," his eyes shined lustfully.

Zeno bit his lips, "Stop it, Seb," He held Sebastian’s arm and drew him over to the chair beside him, "Behave," He whispered as his parents joined them on the table.

"But I need a distraction from your father, he’s just as annoying as mine," Sebastian placed his hand on Zeno’s thigh, sighing, "Damn... I want to skip dinner and eat you instead," his voice turned deeper, his eyes darker.

Zeno gulped and placed his hand over Sebastian’s, "Babe -"

"Shh, they’re here; just leave your hand here instead," He took Zeno’s hand and placed it directly on his crotch, leaning sideways, "Just touch me; they don’t have to know what we’re doing," he whispered and sat straight.

Zeno’s eyes widened the moment Sebastian’s hand moved up to his waist and slowly started to slide into his pants. He cleared his throat and kept a straight face as his father lowered himself to a chair on the other side of the table.

"Sebastian, come over here and sit with me," Mr. Evander tapped the chair beside him.

’Fuck!’ Sebastian cursed inside his head.

Zeno reluctantly removed his hand from Sebastian and felt very empty when Sebastian’s hand withdrew from him, too.

Sebastian cleared his throat and adjusted his pants before he stood and went over to sit beside Mr. Evander.

"Carlos, be nice," Irene said from the other end of the table.

"Alright, everyone, no talking while eating," Nana announced as she started to dish the food.

The table was quiet as they all ate; Mr. Evander watched as Sebastian kept glancing at his son; he struggled to come to terms with the fact that Zeno was dating a man.

"Dad, Mr. Leroy, what did you do to him?" Zeno asked, curious.

"Nothing." Mr. Evander shrugged.

Zeno didn’t believe him, he narrowed his eyes at him, "You know I don’t believe that, and his son? You gave his son to your bodyguards to ’keep’ him," he did air quotes with his fingers, "What have you done to him, I don’t care what you do with his father, I don’t know about your ordeal with him but don’t hurt Cassian, he’s innocent," he stared at his father’s face.

Sebastian clenched his hands around his cutlery, frowning, "Why can’t he hurt Cassian? He led his father to you," He stated, giving Zeno a disappointed look.

Zeno glanced at Sebastian and saw the jealousy on his face, "You misunderstood me, Seb; I’m just worried about him as a friend," He explained.

Sebastian nodded, "Yeah," his eyes were focused on his food and not on Zeno

Irene sighed, "Don’t worry, Zeno, Cassian is safe, he’s just kept as insurance, I’m sure you know what I mean, you’ve dated a Mafia for so long," She smiled

Zeno slowly nodded, "I guess."

"Tell me, Sebastian. Don’t you think that dating a nan will be seen as a taint to your family’s image?" Mr. Evander suddenly asked.

Sebastian scoffed, "I don’t care about what anyone thinks, except Zeno, of course... but everyone else can stick their opinion up their ass, including..." He chuckled and stared at Zeno’s mortified face.

"You’ve got nerve, boy... and I guess it’s expected of a mafia king, your reputation sure exceeds you, but let’s get one thing clear,"

"Dad!" Zeno shouted from fear and shock as his father forcefully lowered his knife to Sebastian’s hand on the table. However, he sighed in great relief when he saw that he had only stuck the knife between the small space of Sebastian’s fingers.

He glared at his Dad, and at Sebastian, who was unfazed by such action.

"Damn it, Dad, that wasn’t funny at all, and you, Sebastian, trying to play it cool? You think it’s funny?" Zeno quietly stood from the chair and walked away from them.

"Darling, I told you to behave," Irene sighed and kept eating her food.

"Excuse me," Sebastian politely nodded and left the table as well, going after Zeno.

***

In Sebastian’s mansion, Ida stood in front of the house and waited for the car to get parked. He immediately went and opened the door, standing aside to let the work inside the car.

"Hi, Ida, nice to see you again," Sakura hugged him.

Ida bowed his head, "Welcome, Sakura. Hi again, Claudia," He nodded at Claudia, who was carrying a sleeping Cloud in her hands.

Claudia smiled at him and walked over to place her hand on Sakura’s shoulder, "You prepared our room, right?" She asked quietly.

Ida nodded, "Yes, butler Nicole arranged an extra room for Cloud," He informed.

"Goodnight, Ida; oh, and please, do show Cody to his room," Sakura said and walked into the building with her family.

"Cody?" Ida froze, he looked behind him and saw no one, but a figure caught his eyes through the windows of the Cody was standing on the other side of the car.

His heart leaped in his chest; he was not prepared to see Cody at all. His hands were shaking, and his palms became sweaty; a strong longing filled his whole body, and he wished he couldn’t just go and hug him, but he knew that would make everything worse.

He slowly arranged his features and walked around the car.

Cody was leaning on the passenger’s door, a small travel box sitting beside his leg.

"Hi," Ida approached Cody, standing in front of him.

Cody didn’t look at Ida’s face, "Just show me to my room," He grabbed the handle of his box.

Ida’s heart broke; he felt weakened. Cody still hated him, and he thought the distance would have gotten Cody to soften, but it didn’t; it made him more grounded in his decision.

"Let me take your bag," Ida moved to take Cody’s bag but it was rolled away from him.

"Just take me to my room," Cody repeated.

Ida sighed and nodded.

"Our wing is at the far right corner of the mansion," Ida said and walked away.

Cody finally let his eyes settle on Ida as he followed him behind; he forced himself not to think of anything, especially not their good times together; Ida cheated on him, and that was a deal-breaker.

He followed him inside the house and into a long passage, Ida soon paused in front of a door and pushed it open, "Here’s your room," He stood beside the door, looking at Cody’s face.

"Thank you," Cody replied formally and entered the room, dragging his box behind him.

Ida closed the door and sighed, "Get a hold of yourself, Ida," He murmured.

He was about to walk away when the door opened again; he paused and looked at Cody, staring at him with unreadable eyes, "Do you need something?" He asked.

Cody frowned; he didn’t even know what he needed; he had thought that Ida would stubbornly follow him into the room and try to plead his case again, but he just let him through the door without a fuss.

The question now was: why did he open the door?

He cleared his throat and stepped out of the room, "I’m hungry, I’m just going to find something to eat," Cidy replied.

Ida nodded, "I can take you to Julia or I can ask her to bring the food to you, whatever you want," He said.

Cody frowned, ’Straight to the point, huh?’

"Take me to Julia," He replied and walked off, feeling angry for an unknown reason.