Ch. 106..110: Until I Met You Chapter 106-110 [Finale]
Chapter 106
I sit opposite Alexa on the kitchen stool as she goes about her plan on Alejandro. My phone rings and I pick it up from the countertop. My heartbeat stops at the caller ID. Oh God, what am I supposed to tell her?
” What? Who’s that?”
” Mia.”
” Holy fuck.” She sighs and runs her fingers through her hair.
” What am I supposed to tell her? I’m just gonna break it once I hear her voice. She’s obviously gonna ask me where Gray is and I’ll start crying again.” I say. I haven’t talked to her and I’m about to sob.
” Just calm down and act normal.”
I nod and take several deep breaths as I answer the call.
” Oh my God Ariel. How are you?” She asks on the phone.
I inhale and sigh. I wipe a tear that slip out of my eyes at once.
” I’m good, Mia. How are you?”
” I’m fine. How’s the baby? Hope you’re eating well? Pregnancy is worse than a heavy toll. Have you started medications and doctors appointments?”
Talking of which. I haven’t. I still can’t bear the news of Gray missing. This doesn’t feel right.
” The baby is doing okay too. My doctor appointment starts next week. School has taken a lot of my time lately.”
” Oh dear. I know school is important but your health is more important. Do you eat?”
Can’t tell her I haven’t eaten anything since her son got shot and announced missing. This feels like a nightmare each time I think about it.
” Yeah. I’ve eaten. I do eat sometimes even when I don’t have an appetite.”
” Are you okay?” She asks on the phone, noticing my voice.
” Yeah, I’m fine Mia.”
” Is Gray looking after you? You know what type of son he is.”
” Yeah, he’s been good.”
” Is he there with you? I’ve been calling his phone and he’s not answering.”
” Uh…” I mute the call at once and turn to look at Alexa for help.
” What am I supposed to tell her?”
” She’s gonna freak out and have mom sickness if you tell her Gray got shot three times four days ago at a dinner date with your father. And now he’s missing and nowhere to be found. Don’t let her freak out Ariel.”
I sniffle and clean my eyes as I unmute the call.
” Ariel, are you there?”
” Yeah. The reception is kinda crappy. Yeah , he’s fine. He’s been good.” I lie and I hate it.
” Alright, dear. Do tell me if he starts acting like a dick. I’ll make sure I discipline him.”
” Sure, Mia.”
” Do take care of yourself, will you?”
I nod.” Yeah. I will take care of myself.”
She giggles on the phone before hanging up.
” This is insane.” I mutter and drop my phone.
” Ariel, you need to eat something. Whatever thing you’re planning to do needs food. The baby needs food.”
” Gray is missing Alexa after being shot. Where’s the appetite gonna come from?” I sob.
” Ariel.” Alexa stands up from her feet and cuddles me. I cry into her chest as she caresses my hair.
” It’s okay. He’s gonna come back. Gray will be back, alright. He’s a strong man and I’m sure of that.”
” I know, right? There’s always this doubt. Like I don’t trust myself anymore. I can’t lose him.”
” Shh…” she shushes me.
” Breathe. You wanna pay the Russians a visit, you know you can’t do this with all these emotions intact. You need to be strong for Gray and the baby.”
” I can’t. I can’t do this anymore.” I pull away from her and clean my eyes.
” You need food, you don’t want to fall sick.” She says and opens the Chinese food. She hands me my chopsticks and gestures for me to take it.
” Ariel, please, you need to eat. You said you can’t stand and watch the murderers of the people who we love go scot free. You need food to make that wish come true. Now eat up.” She says and looks up at her.
” I bet he gave you that promise ring…” she says and points the chopsticks to the ring in my finger.
I sigh and nod.
” Good. Then you shouldn’t doubt your man. He’ll be back for you and Gray junior, okay. Please eat.”
I smile and nod. She giggles at me and gives me the chopsticks. I take it and she wipes my eyes and pat my hair.
” Now that’s a good girl.”
” What’s your plan in finding Alejandro?” She asks and opens her own Chinese food.
” Stripper.”
” You wanna impersonate a stripper?” Alexa asks in disbelief and scoffs.” You can’t do that. You wanna be a stripper. You’ve never stripped once in your life.”
” You wanna do it? Dance round the pole and make sure Alejandro notices you.”
” I dated Vladimir, remember? What if he notices me amidst my disguise.”
” That’s why I need to do it.”
” I can’t let you be a stripper. I want you to stand guard.”
I flash her a big smile.” Yes, boss.”
****
I walk down the hospital’s hallway and stop in front of my father’s room. I slowly open the door and peek inside. Aisha sits on the chair next to him and Cage’s father stands close to his bed.
” Really princess…” I jolt and turn around, startled at the voice.
” Jeez, Cage.” I chuckle softly and run my right hand down my arm.
” You’re okay? Sorry I startled you like that.”
” It’s fine.” I breathe out as we step inside the room. De Luca and Aisha look up at us as we enter.
Aisha’s face beams with a smile once she sees me.
” Hi Aisha. Hello De Luca.” I say.
Aisha returns my greeting but De Luca only grunts and nods. How did he become Cage’s father?
” Any improvement?”
” Nothing. Still in a coma.” Aisha says holding dad’s hand.
I sigh and breathe out.
” Why did the Russians have to shoot him?” De Luca asks.
” I don’t know. Maybe because he was trying to defend me.”
” You did this to him, you know that right? The Russians will never start a war with us. You brought Gray to that dinner of yours and now he’s in a coma.” De Luca abuses.
What is he saying?
” Dad, stop. It was a normal dinner night with father and daughter. You shouldn’t blame her for anything that happened.” Cage defends me.
” Oh really? You know everyone hates Gray and yet you brought him along because of what? You want to stop whatever thing that transpired between your little sweet boyfriend and your dad. I mean I know you’re naive but I didn’t expect you to be this naive.”
” De Luca stop.” Aisha says.
” Stop it okay.” Aisha adds.
Cage scoffs and walks out of the room.
” What did the doctor say, Aisha?” I ask and hug myself.
” Same thing. He said your dad might sleep for a month or so except he’s willing to fight it.” She says. I exhale sharply and bite my lip.
Sleep for a month?
So what’s gonna happen to Gray?
Where’s he right now?
I turn my back on them and walk out of the room. I can’t take it. I’m about to break down. I sob and bite my lip when someone wrap their arms around my shoulder. I breathe in the scent and it’s Cage. I badly wish it was Gray.
” It’s okay.” He whispers.
I nod and wipe my eyes.” Thanks Cage.”
” So what’s your plan? Heard from Gray about his disappearance? He’s been out for days now.”
” Nothing. And I’m getting worried.”
” It’s okay. I think he will be back. You should think positive.”
I look at him and smile.
” Thank you.”
” It’s the least I can do to help. I’m sorry about my dad. He’s always an ass. Sorry about how he spoke earlier.”
” Yeah. He’s just being paranoid. It’s not his fault.”
Nick died because of me. Maybe if I didn’t make Gray come with me to have dinner with my dad, this might not have happened. I feel like I caused this.
” Hey, this isn’t your fault okay.”
And just that assurance, I burst into tears again.
” Come here.” He pulls me to himself and rubs soothing promises on my arm.
” Whatever happened, happened for its own purpose. It wasn’t your fault alright?”
I nod in his arm and clean my eyes. This is so embarrassing. Can’t believe I’d cry like this in a hospital’s hallway.
” Thanks Cage.”
” Sure thing.”
I pull away and rub my hand down my arms.
” I gotta go check on Alexa.”
” Be Careful.”
I nod and give him a small smile as I walk down the hallway to Reid’s room. I bet he would be dead too by now if it wasn’t for a bulletproof vest. I knock on Reid’s room and enter. Alexa sits on his bed with their fingers intwine. Now I’m jealous.
” Have you been crying?” Reid asks.
I sigh and shake my head sideways.
” I’m fine, thanks. How are you?”
” I’m good. I’m healing.”
” I can see that.”
I stuff my hands inside my jeans back pocket and bite my lip.
” I don’t think he’s dead , Ariel. Gray doesn’t give up on anything and that includes death.”
” But where’s he?” I ask.
” He might be anywhere Ariel. He’ll be fine and he’ll be back.” He assures me.
The promise ring is the only thing that is keeping me going. I always remember his word , his promises that he won’t leave. Even if he does, he’s gonna come back. I can’t raise a baby without a father. Without Gray, my world will just be worthless.
” Ready?”
” Ready for what?” Reid asks.
” We’re going shopping. She needs the air.” Alexa says and stands up.
” Are you sure it’s safe? You should get Manny or even Spencer to drive you out.”
” We will be fine on our own.” Alexa says and kisses him on the cheek. A quick peck.
” When will you be out, Reid?” I ask him.
” Tomorrow. So says the doctor.”
I smile at him and nod.
” You’re ready, princess?”
” Yeah, sure.” I reply as she locks her arms with mine as we leave.
•••••
I stare at my reflection in the mirror and run my fingers down the wig. I don’t know why I chose red. Alexa says whoever we’re impersonating is a redhead and she’s supposed to be stripping at Vladimir’s strip club tomorrow. I run a little comb down the bangs that sits on my forehead. I drop the comb and brush the wig. Alexa walks into my room and stands next to me as she stares at her reflection. She wears a grey colored bob wig with extra heavy makeup. Her eyes are black and I hate to admit it she looks a little different with her red lipstick and blue lens.
” I hope this goes as planned or else we’re fucked .” She says and I chuckle.
” This is for the ones we love and lost because of a stupid drug deal. We’re putting an end to this.” I say and apply my own red lipstick. Green lens looks good on me.
” We look like sluts.” She says and I chuckle.
I put on thick lashes and blink my eyes several times. With a final touch of eyeshadow, my eyes look darker than normal. So much for being a stripper. She throws an ID on top of the dresser and I pick it up.
” Francesca Petrov. A lot of weird names.” I say and look at Alexa.
” That’s you for tonight.” She says and walks to my bed to open up the duffel bag.
I got the gun from Gray’s mansion after telling Manny half of the plan. I step on my stilettos and grab my peach peacoat. I put it on and pick up a switch blade, tucking it inside the garter I’m wearing.
” What if we don’t succeed?” Alexa asks.
” Where’s my holy water? I bind away every bad energy and negativity. We gon’ succeed, alright?” I say as Alexa loads her two guns.
” Amen.” She answers and smiles.
I load my own guns and tuck them inside my peacoat. I tie the strap together and turn to look at Alexa. She picks up her black peacoat and tucks her guns inside.
” Let’s get the fuck outta here.”
I nod and allow her to lead the way.
” You can fake an accent right?” She asks.
” Russian?”
” Yup.”
I chuckle as we walk out of my apartment.
” I will give it a shot.”
°°°°
Alexa parks her car outside the strip club as we step out. As expected, two men with black suits and sunglasses stand outside. We put up our biggest smile as we approach them.
” IDs please?” One of them asks.
” Sure.” I say , making sure there’s a little accent.
I open my purse and give him while Alexa gives the other guy her ID.
” Francesca Petrov? I thought you didn’t have a strip show till tomorrow?”
” Yeah. I’m here for a friend.” I say and point my thumb to Alexa who’s chewing a gun.
” Monica.” The other guy says.
” That’s me.” Alexa chirps in.
The men gives us back our IDs and pave the way for us to enter. I flash the man a smile as we enter. Loud music attacks my ears once we’re inside.
” So we’re splitting?” I ask as we look around.
” Yeah. Have fun at the bar while I go to the strip room.”
I nod at her as we part ways.
” Mic check, Alex.”
” Tink.” She giggles from the earpiece.
” Don’t get drunk.” She whispers.
” Be Careful.” I say and stride to the bar.
I sit on the empty stool and call the attention of the bartender.
” Water, please?”
” Alright, ma’am.” He smiles and leaves. I look around the club and the podium. A stripper with little clothing dances around the men as two other strippers give the audience a lap dance.
” Water, lady.”
I turn to look at the bartender and smile at him.
” Thank you.” I collect the bottle of water from him and pay.
I look back at these horny men as one of them slaps a stripper’s butt. He brings out money and tuck it inside the stripper’s panties. So gross. Thank God , I’m not stripping. Alexa was right, I was just gonna freak out and ruin everything.
The strippers leave the stage and someone walks in. Shit Alexa. She smiles at the men and they smile back. Horny freaks. I follow her line of stare and it lands on a man. He wears a black dress shirt and he’s sitting opposite the stage with legs wide open and a stripper on his lap. Thank God for the mask she is wearing.
” Hello beautiful.” A man says beside me. I turn to look at him and it’s obvious he’s in the Russian Mafia. Pricks.
” I’m sorry I have a boyfriend.” I said in a Russian poor accent.
” I’m willing to pay double.”
” Not tonight, Mr. I have a boyfriend.” I say through clench teeth.
He stares at me and scoffs.” Bitch.” He mutters and leaves.
I look back at Alexa and she’s already spinning round the pole. Alejandro already pushes the stripper away from his lap and his full focus was on Alexa. She takes slow strides to his form and straddles his lap. I see him suck in a deep breath as she dances on him. She kisses his neck and stands up and walks back to the pole to continue her spinning. Men already started throwing money on the stage.
” Francesca…” A lady calls my name. I actually forgot I’m supposed to be Francesca tonight.
I turn to look at this petite lady with her extremely dark hair. She’s ugly.
” You visited the club all the way from LA. You look a little different, maybe because of your hair.”
” Yeah.”
” You’re stripping tomorrow, right?”
” Yes.”
” I’m gonna need you in the inner room. You’ll be making a lot of cash today. Alejandro needs a strip dance and he’s paying three thousand grand.”
” What?”
” Yes. He needs Monica too. Both of you.”
Bingo.
” Let’s go.” I drop my bottle of water on the counter and follow her. We walk down a quiet hallway and stop right in front of a room. A man stands outside as the petite women ushers me in and leaves. Oh my God, I’m nervous.
I smile at the stiff man and walk in. Alejandro smokes a cigarette as he looks down at me down. Oh my God, he’s ruthless.
” Alright, Ariel, you can do this. You can be a seductress.” I give myself a pep talk.
” I’m waiting.” he says and tosses away the cigarette.
” Distract him Ariel while I take out this dick in front of the room.” Alexa speaks through the mic.
I take in an invisible deep breath and walk slowly to Alejandro’s form. I bite my lip and run my hand down his chest.
” Impress me…” he says.
I smirk and gently push him down on the chair behind him. His eyes are filled with lust and he’s obviously aroused. What a prick. He reaches to grab my waist but I gently swat his hands away. I lean on him and run my fingers down his body as I kiss his neck. He breathes in sharply and squirm. I remove his tie and smirk at him.
” Let’s play dirty, yes?”
He chuckles and nods impatiently. I wrap both his hands with his tie and tie him against the chair. I look at him with a smirk and his eyes meet mine.
” You look more pretty than I remember.”
” You like the change, don’t you?” I whisper and bite my bottom lip as I tie his wrist tightly.
He winces a little at the force and smirks.” A lot.”
I hear a thud outside and grunts follow. Alejandro is too occupied with my looks to notice. I pull away from him and glare at him.
” What princess?” He asks.
I pull out my gun as Alexa walks in, guns already drawn out.
” What the fuck is going on?”
” Your funeral, you piece of shit.” Alexa hisses and slams her gun across Alejandro’s face.
” The fuck bitch.” He cusses.
” Gray. Where the fuck is Gray?” I ask him.
He stays quiet a minute and stares at both of us for a long time. Alexa aims her gun at him and cocks it.
” Oh I get it. You’re not Francesca and Monica. Gray’s little bitches.” He chuckles.
” I’m gonna shoot you on the balls and no one’s gonna hear it. Now talk.” Alexa demands.
” Your man is fuckin dead and you know it.” He laughs and I angrily punch him.
” Talk. Where. The. Fuck. Is. Gray?” I ask him, gripping his jaw and pointing the gun at him.
” Take a look at the barrel. It’s got a silencer on. No one’s gonna hear a thing.” I tell him and he smirks.
” I don’t know. The last time I saw your man was in his own pool of blood outside that fancy diner four days ago.” He chuckles.
” He went missing you fuckhead. No body, just blood and it’s got no trace.”
” Ooh. Don’t tell me he survived it.” I push his face and blow out my breath.
He can’t be dead right?
” Where’s Moskov?” Alexa asks.
” You thought because you two little bitches are pointing guns at me and I’m gonna spill. You must be fucking crazy.” He says and tries to pull away from the chair.
Alexa rolls her eyes and shoots his arm. He winces and groans.
” Alejandro…” A male voice says as he walks into the room.
I launch at him with a punch as I pull out my knife and stab him on the neck. He groans and holds his bleeding neck. I cock the gun and shoot him in the head.
” You, talk now.” I say to Alejandro and aim my gun at him.
” Fuck you.”
” We know you’re gonna say it.” Alexa smirks and pulls out her phone. She shows her screen to Alejandro and he flinches at once.
” His name is Paulo. He’s ten years old and he stays with his mama , Bianca. He attends windrich highschool and he’s a fifth grader. The school bus picks him up everyday and his mom drives him back home. They live at 17 , Elm Street.” Alexa says as his face flushes with anger.
” Now are you gonna talk or not?” I ask him with a smirk.
” Don’t you dare hurt my son.” He chokes out.
” Where’s Moskov? Or we’re gonna pay Bianca a visit and take your son for a ride.” I ask him.
Alejandro breathes in as he weighs his options.
” There’s a warehouse close to the end of the city in Buffalo. It’s an underground warehouse and it’s highly guarded with close to sixty men. There’s a casino inside and a club. Moskov owns it and he’s been residing there.”
” How can we find him?”
” Once you successfully pass the guards and enter the casino. There’s a door at your left , a man always stands in front of it to stop people like you from getting in. Go through that door and I hope you survive. Because it’s fully armed.” He says.
” Good boy.” Alexa blows him kisses and we turn to leave.
” Who’s gonna untie me you fuckin bitch?” He asks through clench teeth.
” You won’t be needing it by the way.” We say as we pull the trigger.
Chapter 107
” Oh my God…” I groan and rush into my bathroom to throw up.
I rest both hands on the edge of the sink and puke out whatever thing I ate. What is this called, baby sickness?
I breathe in and out and look up at my reflection.
” You’re okay in there?” Alexa calls out.
” Yeah. I’m just having baby sickness I think.”
” Baby sickness? What the fuck is that?” Alexa asks and walks into the bathroom.
I turn on the faucet to let it rinse out my vomit as I wash my hands.
” I think it’s because of Alejandro. We killed someone.”
” Seriously? You regret that now?” She asks. I turn off the tap and turn to look at her.
” I didn’t mean that. Maybe it upset the baby.” I shrug as she chuckles.
I laugh and walk to her as we walk out of the bathroom to my room. I remove my peacoat and toss it on the couch. Alexa pushes the drapes aside to reveal the city below.
” Damn. That was crazy. At first, I thought we were gonna be fucked.” I say and remove my wig.
” I thought about that too. Dying miserably.” Alexa says and we chuckle.
” What’s our next plan? Alejandro said Moskov is in his warehouse in Buffalo. Which means we’re driving to Buffalo?”
” Yeah. You wanna walk?” She smirks at me as she removes her wig. I roll my eyes and chuckle at her.
” We don’t even know where the warehouse is located.”
I sigh and pull off my shoes.
” I’ve got an idea.” I announce and smile at her.
My phone rings and I pull it out from my peacoat. I swipe the answer icon and press the phone against my ear.
” Kennedy?”
” Ariel…”
I giggle and remove my other shoe.
” How are you?”
” I’m not fine, you don’t care about me anymore. Including Gray. He promised he was gonna take me out with you and yet he didn’t call to check on me or visit me again. You didn’t even call either. I’m so mad at you.”
I sigh and drop my shoes next to the other one close to the couch.
” Kenny, I’m so sorry. I’ve been pretty occupied lately…”
” I knew you were gonna say that.” She points out and I giggle.
” Alright, how can I make it up to you?”
” Come visit me with Jamal.”
Damn, Gray.
What on earth are you?
” Gray’s not around.” I say. A tear threatens to slip out of my eyes. I blink my eyes rapidly and sigh.
” Did he travel again?” She asks.
Alexa looks at me with her brows furrowed and gestures to my phone with a look that simply means ‘what’s going on?’
” Yeah. He traveled. But he will be back soon. Where are you at? Mom or dad?”
” I’m with Mom. I want you to come visit me Ariel.”
” Yeah, sure. Can you text me the address, I’m gonna come over.”
” Yes… ” she squeals and I can hear her giggle.
” Honey, who are you talking to?” I hear Jhene’s voice in the background.
” It’s Ariel.”
” Why are you speaking with her?” Jhene asks on the phone.
” You should quit hating mom.” Kennedy says. ” Ariel, are you still there?”
” Yeah. Text the address, will you?”
” Sure.” She giggles and hangs up.
I puff out my breath and keep my phone on the couch.
” Kennedy?”
” Yes..” I breathe out and run my hands down my hair.
” She wanted me to come with Gray.”
” I’m just wondering how they are gonna react when they find out Gray Carter was shot and he’s gone missing.”
” I don’t know Alexa.”
” I’m gonna be truthful to you Ariel, they are gonna feel bad. And the point is what if he doesn’t come back?”
I look up at her and blink back the tears.
” He’s gonna come back, alright?”
She sighs and stands up from my bed. She walks to the couch and sits next to me.
” Was he doing fine before the shot?”
I nod.
” Yeah, he was fine. He was doing okay and he was strong. Gray is a strong man. He might not like to say he’s got an allergy but he hates hospitals. He hates acting sick too.” I tell her.
” Where was he shot? Was he wearing any Kevlar vest at all?” She asks and that didn’t ring a bell earlier.
” Kevlar vest, I don’t know about that. I didn’t see him get dressed. And about where he was shot, first was his shoulder, and his chest, his pec actually. And then… I don’t really know the last spot. I think it’s his ankle.”
” Damn. That pec shot it’s kinda risky. It’s like a 50/50 chance Ariel. He is gonna be fine if the shot isn’t close to his heart. The ankle and shoulder that’s not really big but the chest. Jeez. What if he’s in a coma as we’re speaking?”
” Coma? But where?”
” That’s the issue, nobody knows. He’ll be fine, I’m pretty sure of that.” She says and wraps her arms around me as she pulls me to herself.
” It’s okay alright. Gray will be back. I’m really sure he’s in a coma somewhere and he’s gonna be fine. We should start drawing maps and plans on how to light Moskov out for good.”
I chuckle and wrap my arms around Alexa’s torso.
” Thanks, Alexa. I truly owe you.”
” Alright, breathe sister. That’s my responsibility alright. You’re my responsibility, if I don’t look out for you, no one will.” She says and I smile.
” Thank you.” I say and pull away from her.
” What’s up with Leslie?” I ask.
” She’s about to put to bed, I suppose.” She winks at me.
” Yeah. I should probably pay her a visit soon.”
She scoffs and stands up.
” I’m starving. You’re hungry?” Alexa asks as she removes her peacoat.
” Yeah. I’m really starving.”
” I’m gonna cook something.” She says and leaves.
•••••
I lean my head against the car seat as Alexa sings to Rihanna’s ‘pour it up’ Alexa parks the car opposite a shopping mall as we look around. I push down my sunglasses a little and look around.
” What makes you think he’s gonna be here?” I ask Alexa as she turns down the volume of the music.
” Trust me he will. I’m pretty sure Moskov has received the death of his right hand man and he’s already freaking out.” She says and pushes up her sunglasses to rest on her hair.
After I visited Kennedy yesterday, Alexa and I spent time on how to find Moskov’s warehouse. As usual, Jhene wasn’t nice. She was mean and rude and she said a lot of shit.
We are parked here because she thinks a Russian mobster supplies coke for the manager of the shopping mall across from us.
” How are you so sure about this?”
” Vladimir.” She smiles and brings out a lollipop. She unwraps it, tosses the wrap away and sticks it right inside her mouth.
She pushes the button to open the sunroof as she leans her elbow on the window sill. We waited in the car for almost one hour and I’m getting bored.
” Goddamnit.” I cuss.
Alexa is already on her tenth lollipop and I’m wondering where she got them from. A black Lexus drives into view and parks in front of the mall. Alexa and I tilt our heads to the car and a man steps out. He wears a blue suit carrying a small duffel bag as he shuts the car door. He looks around the area and removes his sunglasses as he walks into the shopping mall.
” Is that our target?” I ask as she presses the button to retract the sunroof.
” Yup.” She says as we hop out of the car.
” Activate the earpiece and go as planned.” Alexa says walking ahead of me.
” Roger that.” I smile at her and walk to the newspaper stand as she walks inside the mall. I pick up a newspaper and look around before walking into the mall.
Alexa is nowhere to be seen.
” Where are you?” I ask on the earpiece.
” Turn around.”
I turn around and I see her looking at the items on the aisle. I smile and look around for the blue suit man as he comes into view. He talks to the counter girl and I pretend to shop. The counter girl giggles as he talks. He writes something down, probably his contact info as he waves at her and walks through a door.
” Did you see that?” I whisper on the mic.
” Yup.”
I pick up two tampons and body spray as I walk to the counter. Alexa had her own items on her hand as she walked to the counter too.
” Hi.” The counter girl says.
” Hey.” I smile at her and drop my items on the counter.
I look at the note blue suit guy wrote his contact information on and I was correct, it was his mobile number, probably to hook up with her. She carelessly left it on the counter without taking it out.
” There , your items…” the sales girl says as I snap my head to look at her with a smile.
” How much please.”
” Hundred dollars.” She answers as Alexa drops her item on the counter close to the notebook.
I open my purse and look at Alexa as I motion to the blue suit’s guy’s contact on the notebook. She pulls out her phone as I pay at once. I watch her click on the camera icon and take a picture of it.
” There you go ma’am.” The sales girl says referring to Alexa.
Alexa flashes her a big smile and pays. We leave the mall and hurry to the car.
” Don’t even know what the fuck I’m gonna do with this.” She says referring to the bag in her hand.
” It’s still useful.” I say as we enter my car.
” What are we using his contact for?” I ask
” Sending him a text that he needs to be at the warehouse immediately.”
” You’re serious? And he is just gonna follow orders with a mere text.”
” Mere you call it.” She grimaces as she types the contact on her keypad.
She types on her phone as she smirks widely.” Bingo.”
She smiles victoriously and shows me the screen of her phone.
” Come to the hideout warehouse immediately, it’s important.” I read it out.” And you think this is gonna work.”
” They are dumb sometimes.”
I nod as we wait impatiently. Thirty minutes passed by and blue-suit man was already running out of the mall. He opens his car and slides in.
” Told ya.” Alexa winks at me and ignites the engine to trail after the mobster.
” How’s that even possible?” I ask her.
” They are mobsters. Most times their fellow mafia families don’t really save each other’s contact, except the necessary ones.”
” That really doesn’t make any sense. I can’t just leave my house and go to some place because an anonymous number sent me a text. What if it’s the wrong warehouse?”
” Oh my God. Jesus, you nag a lot when you’re pregnant.”
I roll my eyes and huff.
” So when are you ready to tell Brandon and Piper that you’re pregnant? We’ve been skipping classes lately.”
” I don’t know. Maybe after I know Gray’s whereabouts and that he’s fine.”
She drives at a slow pace to keep up with him. I tap my fingers on the window sill and lean into the car seat. Forty minutes into the cat chase and the Lexus car the mobster is driving slows down ahead of us. Alexa slows down her car as we watch the man drive inside a warehouse.
” Don’t tell me that’s the warehouse.”
” Of course it’s the warehouse. Let’s get out of here, mission accomplished.” She says and reverses the car as we drive back.
*****
We stand on the roof of a building as Manny and I look at the warehouse through the binoculars.
Alexa stands next to Spencer and they share a cigarette.
” Alright, this will be hard.” Manny says at once as he looks at me.
” Life ain’t easy either.” Alexa says giving Spencer the cigarette back.
Two other guys are on the roof too. I watch them open the duffel bag and bring out a sniper rifle.
” This is different, Alexa.” He says and looks through the binoculars again. I don’t look, instead I give it to Alexa.
” There are two guys at the gate. You’ll have to get past those two and that’s kinda easy…” Manny narrates. ” And right outside the warehouse, we have ten men, all armed. There are four men on the roof as we’re speaking. There’s a door at the end and I think that leads to the inside of the warehouse.” He says and looks back at us.
” The problem isn’t the outside, but the inside. No matter what , you can’t pass these men without a gun fight. It’s not possible. You’ll have to shoot your way through and it mustn’t be loud in order not to alert the guys inside.” Manny continues.
” Alright?”
” You sure you wanna do this?” Spencer asks me.
” Yeah.”
” News about boss?” One of these men asks. I don’t even know their names.
” I don’t know.” I say as a matter of fact.
” fuckin bullshit.” The other guy cusses. ” Then let’s fucking give them this war then. They started it.” He says as he starts to load the sniper rifle.
Spencer already pulls out a gun as he loads the gun.
” You’re sure about this?” Manny asks this time.
I smile and nod.” I’m sure. Alexa is here and also you guys got my back.”
Manny smiles at me.
” You might wanna use this.” Spencer says giving me a bulletproof vest.
” Is that necessary?” I ask and take it.
“Yup, very necessary.” Alexa says and collects another one for herself.
I remove my peacoat and put it on.
” Okay, I can’t breathe.” I say and take in deep breaths.
Alexa rolls her eyes and puts on her peacoat after wearing the vest. I scoff at her and wear my peacoat. I button it to the top and breathe in again. This is really uncomfortable.
” I and the guys will take the roof. Seb and the others will assist you inside.”
” Thanks.” I smile at him and pick up two guns. I load them and tuck it inside my coat pocket. Alexa does the same as we climb the stairs down.
This side of the city isn’t busy at all. Best place for a warehouse hideout. The breeze blows the red hair I’m wearing as I tuck it behind my ear. Alexa follows behind as we walk to the gate of the warehouse.
” Ready?”
” Ready.” I reply and walk to the gate.
” Hey guys.” I call out to the two men out front.
” Get the fuck out of here, fucking sluts.” One of them says.
” Maybe you should make us.” Alexa says.
They pull out their guns to pull the trigger, but Manny and the others were fast, both men fall dead on the ground.
” Party time.” We slowly open the gate and walk in.
The outside area is covered with different cars. We quietly sneak in and hide behind a car as six of Gray’s men quietly sneak in too and scatter around. Two men talk in Russian like they are arguing over something.
” Ready?” Alexa whispers and looks at Gray’s men. They nod.
” Go…” we jump out of hiding and a gun fight follows.
I pull out my guns and shoot at them. Alexa and I quickly duck behind a car to avoid incoming bullets. A bullet slams against the car window and grunts follows. Gunshots erupts from every corner and I see three men fall off the roof. A Russian mobster runs to our direction about to pull the trigger, Alexa and I shoot him first.
” Let’s go.” We aim at the two men hiding behind a car as we shoot and slowly approach him.
” fuck it.” Alexa hisses and ducks behind a car. She picks up the AK-47 on the floor and shoots recklessly at the men.
They grunts and falls down dead.
” Damn.” I breathe out and look around, they are all dead and Gray’s men are fine.
” Fucking bitch.” I hear Alexa swears. I dart my head to her form and she just aggressively smashes her foot on the dead man’s face.
” God.” I groan at the sight.
” Motherfuckers.” She hisses and looks at me.
” Are we heading in or not?” She asks and I nod.
” We’ll go first to avoid suspicion.” I say and start walking.
” Sure.” We walk inside and it’s actually abandoned.
I look around for a door and I see one at the end. Alexa and I walk to the door and open it. A bright hallway appears before us as we enter. Two men appear from the hallway and we shoot them at once as they fall down dead.
” Do you think they deserve this?” I ask Alexa and smirk at her.
” Fuck, yes.”
I stop at the dead men and pull out their guns from their belts. I tuck both guns in my pocket and we continue walking.
“Who the fuck are you?” A man asks but Alexa pulls the trigger without giving him a damn reply.
” Bitch.” She cusses.
” I never knew this could be fun sometimes.” I say as we walk down the hallway.
” Don’t get used to it, or your son is taking over the mob.”
” Hell no.”
She chuckles.” Hide your gun. There’s a guard at the door.” She says as we stop moving. I tuck both guns inside my pants and turn to look at Alexa.
” This has to be quiet. We don’t want war.” She winks at me and walks ahead of me.
” Hey buddy.” She smiles at him and kicks him on the face.
She grabs him by the collar and slams him against the wall. The next thing I heard is a broken neck. She twisted his neck. The man slums down the wall and falls down dead. She bends down, picks his gun, tuck it inside her pants and smiles at me. Damn, I need to learn how to do that.
We open the door and step inside. The noisy music welcomes us once we’re inside.
” We’re inside.” I say through the earpiece to Manny and the others.
” Good, be careful.” Manny replies through the mic.
” The others can start coming in.” Alexa says as we sway past sweaty bodies dancing.
We walk to the bar as I survey the club for any door. Truthfully there’s one and a man stands in front of it.
” How are we gonna get past that door?” I ask Alexa.
” Easy.” She snaps at a girl with barely no clothing who’s leaning against the wall.
She walks to us with a seductive smirk as she looks at both of us.
” You need servicing tonight?” The girl asks.
” No dear, I’m straight. I’ve got a job for you.”
Her smile falters as she stares at both of us.
” What fucking job?”
” How about, seduce that hot guy standing right at that door and I’ll give you a thousand grand.”
” You’re kidding?” She grimaces and I roll my eyes and slowly pull out five hundred dollars from my peacoat pocket.
” That’s five hundred dollars. We ain’t playing. Just get him out of that door.” I say and give her the money.
Alexa shoves her hand inside her peacoat and pulls out the remaining half and gives it to her.
” Seduce him and make him leave that door.” We motion to the door and her eyes follow our stares.
” Alright.” She tucks the money inside her boobies and leaves.
” Water…” I tell the bartender.
He nods with a smile and hands me a bottle of water.
” Are you Russian?” I ask him and uncap my bottle of water.
” Yes.” He replies with a smile. Oh I get it, he thinks I’m flirting with him.
” Why are there so many Russians here?” I ask him and bite my bottom lip.
” Maybe because a Russian owns it.” He replies.
Alexa scoffs beside me.
” Who? Moskov?”
” Yeah, Moskov.” He says.
” Thanks. It’s sad I barely see him around here. I always hang out here but I only saw him once. Was wondering if he hangs out here at all.”
The bartender looks at me for a minute before replying.” Sure. It’s his club, he’s always gonna be here.”
So dumb. I flash him one of my rare smiles and turn to look at Alexa.
” Damn, he won’t budge.” Alexa says through clench teeth.
I raise the bottle of water to my mouth and watch the man at the door. He tells the girl something and he sounds upset. She turns around and walks away from him.
” Shit, that didn’t work.”
” What makes you think some slut can take that man out of the door.”
” You’ll have to start a shootout.” Manny says through the earpiece.
I see Gray’s six men. They blend into the dancing bodies as they scatter around.
” Seriously. We have over 30 Russian mobsters inside this place. We’re only eight in number.”
” Then I’m bringing in more men , if that’s the case.” Manny says through the earpiece.
” I don’t advise that. We will look for a way. It will cause a lot of problems and a lot of people will get hurt.” Alexa says.
” So how do you intend to get the man out of that door? The quicker we do this and get the hell out of here, the faster for all of us. Spencer is coming in with the others. Once they are close, start a gun fire. I’ll give you guys the signal.” Manny says.
I sigh and drink more water.
” I’m just wondering what Reid is doing right now.” Alexa says.
He didn’t like the idea. He was worried that we’re going to get hurt. He just got out of the hospital and he said he needed to assist us. Alexa made sure he stays back because he is still healing.
” He’s gonna be fine.” I say and think about the worst thought ever. What if Moskov has no idea where Gray is?
” You’re okay?” Alexa asks.
” Yeah.”
” Now , Ariel.” Spencer says on the mic.
” I’m already in.” Spencer says.
I look around the club and his eyes meet mine. People dance and the music is so damn loud. So that means if Moskov is in that room , then the shootout might not alert him. Hopefully. I look at the edge and the dark side of the club for these Russian mobsters and I see only six, including the man at the door, seven.
” Be alerted.” I take in a deep breath and walk to the man at the door.
” What do you want?” He asks. His voice is lace with a heavy accent.
” I need to see Moskov. He’s expecting me.” I say.
” And who the fuck are you?” He asks.
” His slut.”
” He’s not expecting anyone. You should leave.” The man says.
Alright, he’s stubborn. I quietly pull out my switchblade and smile at him.
” Okay.” I dig the knife into his neck as he fights death. I let him go and he slumped down dead. The next thing that follows is a gunshot and screams.
I duck inside the room and lock the door. It’s a hallway and it’s brightly illuminated. I take in a deep breath and pull out my two guns, both fully loaded with silencers. I walk down the hallway as two men walk into view. I shoot them both as they fall dead. I walk to the end of the hallway and peek my head out to spy, about four men standing at the other side of the hallway, all fully armed.
I step out of hiding and shoot at them before they can pull out their guns. I duck into hiding as they shoot at me. Bullets slam into the wall close to where I’m hiding as I breathe in. Who knew I could face death this way? I come out of hiding and shoot back at the remaining men as they fall dead. I walk to their bodies and shoot at the last guy who’s finding it hard to die.
I take another turn and the hallway isn’t ending. I walk down the hall as two men walk in. I shoot at both of them before they pull out their guns. Another guy walks out , I shoot him in the shoulder before he can pull out his gun from his belt. He groans and grips his shoulder in pain. I pull the trigger again but it clicks. shit I’m out of bullets. The man smiles at me and reached to draw out his gun. I slam my gun on his cheek as his face whips to the left. I quickly draw out his gun from his belt and shoot him on the chest.
A bullet hits the wall behind me.
” Bitch.”
I swiftly turn the man I shot to face the shooter as I use him as a shield from the shooter. I aim my gun at the shooter and shoot him. I hear a thud and he’s already on the ground. I bite my lip and let go of the dead shield. I groan and look at my arm. I’ve been shot. I breathe in and out and bend down to pick up the assault rifle on the floor.
” God.” I groan at the pain.
” Fucking whore.” A man growls at once. I point the hand gun at him and shoot him. Not once , not twice but thrice.
I Inhale a sharp breath and throw the hand gun away. I pull the hammer of the assault rifle and continue walking down the hall. Another two men rush in but I pull the trigger before they can. I breathe in and out at the pain in my arm and look at the dead men. I continue walking till I get to the end of the hallway. This is like a maze. A lot of hallways. There’s another hallway that leads to God knows where at the left and I follow it.
I shoot at every enemy as I continue walking. And then I see the door which I assume is Moskov’s office slash hideout. I stretch my hand to twist the doorknob but I stop. He’s obviously aware of the gun fight because of the noise. I move back a little and aim the gun at the door as I shoot at it. Bullet holes scatter around the door as I continue shooting at it.
I hear a man groan and a thud. I smile and stop shooting. I twist the doorknob open and step inside. His room is scattered as objects litter on the floor. There he is, lying on the ground holding his stomach as he glares at me. He stretches his hand to pick up his gun but I beat him to it. I step on his hand aggressively and he screams in pain.
” You like that?” I ask him.
” Fuck, you, bitch.” He spits out.
” Where is Gray?”
” How the fuck am I supposed to know? Your boyfriend is dead.”
I bite my lip and twist my shoe on his hand. He groans and shudders.
” Where is Gray?” I yell at him.
” I fuckin shot your man. You were there.”
No it’s not true.
With tears in my eyes, I aim the gun at Moskov’s head and pull the trigger.
Chapter 108
Six months later…
” Dear God, I wanna say that I’m grateful for everything that you’ve done for me. I wanna appreciate the fact that you looked after me and Gray junior, I totally appreciate that. I’ve sinned against you and I’m sorry. I just wanna ask the same favor I’ve been asking for the past six months. Please bring Gray back. I want him back…” I sniffle and look down at my baby bump.
” His baby wants him back. Please. I know that he has done a lot of stuff. Bad stuff , yes, but please he’s a good man. It’s been six months now and I’m still asking you for this little favor. I want Gray back, please, God.” I weep silently and bite my lip.
I look up at Jesus on the cross and look down at my belly. Dad walks beside me and wraps his arms around my shoulder to comfort me. He woke up from a coma five months ago and Gray’s still missing. The first month , I always hoped. Stand opposite my transparent glass and wish he’s here. Cuddling me and maybe telling me how much I meant to him. But he didn’t show up.
I’ve prayed and hoped and he’s still not back. Reid was always confronting me that he will be back but sometimes I lose faith. After Moskov’s death, Nick was buried properly including Carl. Reid controlled the activities of the mob and also he and Alexa are shipping right now. They are in love and it’s nice Reid cares a lot about her.
Mia truly had mom sickness when she found out her son is missing and he’s not back yet. She cried and traveled down to NYC just to make sure I’m looking out for myself and eating. Found out it’s a boy after three months and it hurts Gray wasn’t around to hear the news. Leslie gave birth a few weeks ago and it’s a girl. The baby is really cute and she had blonde hair. Obviously got that from her dad.
I take a deep breath and turn to look at dad. He smiles at me and pats my shoulder.
” You’re gonna be fine, alright?” He says.
” I’m not even sure about being fine. Honestly I don’t even know what it feels like to be fine anymore.” I sigh and run my hand down my stomach.
” I hate the fact that I missed how he was supposed to freak out when he finds out I’m pregnant. He wasn’t ready to have babies. He said he was gonna walk me down the aisle before making babies.” I weep and wipe my eyes at once.
” It’s okay. You shouldn’t stop believing. Gray might be an asshole sometimes, but he’s a strong man and will always be. He’s gonna be back, I’m pretty sure of that.” He says and smiles at me.
” Thanks Dad.”
” You’re welcome. Let’s get you home.”
I nod as he walks me out of the church. We step outside and dad opens my side door for me. I slide inside the car and he rounds the car to enter the driver’s seat. I lean against the car seat as he ignites the engine. We drive into the street as dad turns on the radio. Leslie’s mom actually apologized to me for everything she did. She forgave Leslie and took her back when she gave birth.
Dad parks the car outside my penthouse building and I get out before he can think of opening my side door for me.
” Still can’t believe you killed Moskov. That’s really big news.” Dad says as we walk into the lobby.
” I was angry.” I say and he chuckles.
” That was brave of you. I’m proud.”
I smile and nod. The elevator arrives and we enter. I cross my arms on top of my belly and lean against the wall.
” Are you planning on going back to college once you give birth?” He asks.
” I’d like to. I can quit online and just go back to college.”
” And the baby?” He asks.
I sigh and shrug.
” I don’t even know. Maybe I just need to continue and forget about college. I’m still shocked that I’m gonna be a mother soon. It’s a big shocker considering the fact that Leslie got pregnant the same year too.”
” And it had to be Gray. A big shocker indeed.”
” You know you should stop hating each other.”
” I don’t hate Gray, I told you that. Still surprised that you fell in love with him. Dated him and also got pregnant for him. Since it’s a boy, you’re obviously gonna drop a younger version of Gray.” Dad says.
The elevator slides open and we step out. I twist the doorknob open when I find out it’s not locked. Dad and I walk in and he shuts the door behind him. I smile at the aroma from the kitchen.
” Alexa?”
” That’s me.” She walks out of the kitchen with a big smile on her face.
” Hi, Mr Daxton.” She greets dad.
” Hi, yourself.” Dad replies.
” Ariel…” I hear Kennedy’s voice as she rushes out of the hallway. Damn, who brought her?
” Surprised?” She squeaks as she grins.
” Yeah. Who brought you?”
” Alexa did. I had to beg dad to bring me to Gray’s but he refused. I Ran into her in a mall and I made sure she brought me here. We’re making a nursery.” She squeals.
” No way.”
” Yes, way. It was her idea.” Alexa jabs her thumb at Kennedy.
” And I’ve got the best baby names ever. You’ll love it.” Kennedy says as she wraps her little hand around my wrist. She drags me to the kitchen and Alexa follows.
” I’m just gonna leave, Ariel. I’ll call you.” Dad calls out.
I stop on my track and turn to look at him.
” Alright. Thanks. Alexa will take good care of me, including Kennedy.” I say and ruffle Kennedy’s hair.
” Sure. Be careful.” He gives me a big hug and leaves.
I sigh and take Kennedy’s hand as we walk to the kitchen. Alexa is making pancakes.
” So you wanna hear my name suggestions before checking out the nursery?” Kennedy asks.
” Sure.”
” Oh yeah. Since it’s a boy and he’s gonna be a badass boy. I think Jaden is hot. Haven , Kaden , Tyrell, Trevor…”
” A lot of ‘dens’ and ‘Ts’ in here, little one.” Alexa points.
” Come on. You know it’s cute. And Jamaal too.” Kennedy says.
” Jamaal?” I ask.
” Yeah. Since Gray is the daddy and he’s gonna be like Gray, I just thought Jamaal as his middle name won’t be bad since Gray is Jamal.” She says with a sad look.
” I miss Nick. And Gray especially. Can’t believe they just left without saying it.” She sighs.
” Come here…” I call out to her and hold her to myself.
” Nick is fine alright. And Gray, he will be back soon.” I assure her.
” I trust you.” She coos.
” Alright. Pancake is ready. Who’s hungry?” Alexa asks. I look up to her and she smiles.
Obviously, she’s trying to lighten up the mood.
“I’m hungry.” Kennedy mutters.
*****
I get out of my car and shut the door. I look up at the place I once called an apartment as I walk in. I smile at the lady and step inside the elevator. I just had yoga class and I had to check on Leslie since she just gave birth. I step out of the elevator once it slides open as I ring the doorbell.
I wait patiently and ring again. The door opens revealing Hazel. She smiles at me and ushers me in. I smile back at her and walk inside. I look around the familiar apartment and it’s weird it looks different.
” Hi, Ariel.” Hazel greets behind me.
I turn to look at her and smile at her.
” Hi.”
” You look pretty. Leslie is in the baby’s nursery.”
” Alright.” She walks me down the hallway and stops in front of my ex room. Just as I had expected. She opens the door and we enter. Leslie looks up from her baby girl and flashes me a smile.
” Ariel.”
” Hi.”
She smiles at me and looks down at my baby bump.
” You look hot.” She says as she looks down at her baby.
” Thank you.” I walk to her and look down at the tiny baby.
” She’s beautiful.” I say.
” Thanks. Even if I actually hated my life when I got her, I feel happy. Like really happy. She brought me happiness.” Leslie says.
” What’s her name?”
” Harmony.”
” Wow. That’s really cute.” I smile at her.
The baby opens her eyes and they meet mine. Her eyes are brown, really cute with her blonde hair. She smiles at me and begins to make baby noises.
” You wanna carry her?” Leslie asks me.
I shrug and nod.
” Yeah.”
I take Harmony from her and she giggles.
” She’s really beautiful.”
” I’m just gonna leave you guys and go check out the kitchen.” Hazel says and leaves.
I stare at the baby for what feels like eternity as Leslie clears her throat. I look up at her and her eyes holds a hint of sadness.
” I’m really sorry about Gray.” She starts a conversation. I smile and nod.
I hate to think about the fact that Gray’s missing. That he’s not here to give me foot massages and back rubs when I need them. Being pregnant sucks. It’s clearly stressful and it’s not been easy.
” And I’m sorry about what I did to you last year. I was stupid and jealous. You’ve always been the star of highschool without you even noticing that. I got envious of that. I wanted that. And then you got Freddie and I was a stupid teenager. I badly wanted Freddie. It was stupid. I was stupid.” She sighs and looks at her baby.
” I advised him to take advantage of you because that would stop you from going to the convent and all that. Make sure mom hates you so that I can be the best child. Look, I’m sorry. I regretted everything. I understand that, all of this , jealousy and envy was nothing. I was just hating myself without even knowing. I’m really sorry.” She pleas.
I smile at her and nod.
” It’s fine. I forgive you.”
” Thank you.” She wraps her arms around me and hugs me gently.
” Thank you very much, Ariel. I’m so glad you’re my sister. And we’re still family and we’ll always be sisters. I will never see you as a cousin though.” She giggles and pulls away.
” Yeah. It’s okay.”
” Thank you.” I nod at her and smile.
*****
I spent a lot of time with Leslie and Hazel as we talked and laughed. Later in the evening, I went home. I remove my shoes and breathe in. This is too stressful. I throw my bag on the couch and take off my clothes to shower. I take my bath and dry myself. I get dressed in my nightdress and go to the kitchen to make something to eat.
Alexa isn’t around. Just me. She said she was going to spend the night with Reid. I turn on the TV and make pasta. When it’s ready, I serve and go to the living room and sit on the couch opposite the TV. A romance movie plays on TV and I actually zoned out when the male lead tells the girl how much he feels about her.
I switched off the TV when I was eating. I keep the plate on the sink, switch off the light and go to my bedroom. I lay down and I had to imagine Gray laying next to me. This sucks, I had to cry and cuddle myself. I hate the fact that I had to take him out to have dinner with my dad. Maybe I shouldn’t have. I should have let him rest and heal and I wasn’t thinking when I invited him out.
I close my eyes and fall asleep. I was woken up because I heard a noise. I jolt up and switch on the bedside lamp. An image made me spring up at once as I slowly reached for my phone. I yelp when my room light switches on. I blink my eyes at the visitor and I almost choke on my breath. No way.
” Gray?” He walks to my form and stops in front of me.
He’s got a stubble. Sadly he looks cuter or maybe it’s because I haven’t seen him since he was shot at the dinner.
” Oh my God.” I gasp and bite my bottom lip to stop me from crying.
I pry the comforter out of my body and sit up. He hasn’t said a word to me. I stand up slowly and reach to touch him. He’s real. I’m not dreaming. He scans my body as his eyes land on my stomach. A glint of emotions spread through his face as he stares at me in bewilderment.
” You’re pregnant?” He asks at once.
” Who the fuck got you pregnant?”
Chapter 109
|•GRAY•|
I still can’t believe what I’m seeing. I battled death for over six months and when I finally won , I decided to check on the one girl who makes me happy and she’s pregnant. Like fully pregnant. How can she do that?
” You’re pregnant?” I ask her.
She stares at me like I’m a ghost and I can’t fight back the anger that I had to come check on her the moment I was okay and she’s pregnant. Who the fuck got her pregnant? Cage? Or maybe some dimwit.
” Who the fuck got you pregnant?”
” You’re serious?” She asks me. It hurts me that she’s barely concerned about my reaction to finding her pregnant after waking up from a six months coma.
” Ariel, who got you pregnant?” I ask her.
” I’m sorry.” She simply states.
” You’re sorry? Ariel you’re pregnant and you’re saying you’re sorry. I was in a coma for over six months and I finally came back and you’re expecting a baby. Who the fuck got you pregnant?”
” Gray, can you please keep it down? That’s not how to make a proper welcome back speech. And yes, I’m pregnant since you’re so vexed up.” She says.
I look down at her and her nightdress. She still looks beautiful, but that baby bump is making me angry. Who did she date?
” So you moved on? You couldn’t wait? And you were so fast to get pregnant. Who’s the asshole?”
” You’re that asshole.” She says through clench teeth as she walks out of her bedroom in anger.
I am that asshole. What’s that supposed to mean?
” Ariel.” I call after her and follow her out of the room. She is in the kitchen with a glass of water in her hand as she drinks it.
” You know you can’t change right?” She says and looks at me.” You got me pregnant since you care so much about who the fuck got me pregnant. Six freaking months, and you returned like that getting annoyed about a baby. Our baby.”
What!
What the fuck is she saying?
I got her pregnant?
How come I didn’t know about it?
Why didn’t she tell me?
I’m gonna be a Daddy?
Shit!
” What are you saying?” I ask her as she walks to my form and stops in front of me. She’s still short with her head barely reaching my chin. I thought that was gonna change in six months. I’m just being a dick.
She pokes my chest with anger.” You are still an asshole. We had sex Gray. At your mom’s yacht party , I didn’t use any pills, you didn’t even use a condom.” She points to her belly.” And this is the outcome of that.” She says and walks back to the counter to drink her water.
” Why didn’t you tell me?” I ask her.
” Maybe because I was scared. I wasn’t prepared for this. I didn’t want a baby and I got it. You told me at that party that you weren’t ready to be a father either. I bought pills to get rid of it…”
” Why would you do that?”
” You’re serious?” She asks and looks up at me in disbelief. ” Gray, you weren’t ready. Plus your Mafia stupid fights. I wanted to go to school and probably graduate and you… you don’t even want it. Why should I not get rid of it?”
I sigh and run my fingers through my hair. Fucking hell! I’m gonna be a dad? I didn’t see that coming. She looks at me with teary eyes and looks away. I hate the fact that I had to make her cry. I stand behind her and wrap my arms around her waist.
“I’m really sorry.” I whisper to her neck. She shudders against my touch and I smirk against her neck.
” You know, even if you told me earlier, I wouldn’t have asked you to get rid of it. It’s our baby and we made it together.” I say and she scoffs.
I pull away from her, turn her around, and sit her on the counter. I look down at her stomach, and I hate to admit it I’m still in shock. I trail my forefinger down her stomach. It’s real , I’m gonna be a dad. A really bad dad cause I suck at it.
” What happened to you? I feared that you were never gonna come back.”
She trails her finger down my chin and to my hair.
” Can’t believe you’re real.” She mutters and smiles.” I lost hope even if I was always praying and looking at that promise ring that you gave me.”
” I can’t break a promise.” I say and sigh.
” What happened?” She asks.
” I was in a coma. Woke up four days ago in some weird hospital. Some good man took me there. He said he didn’t know how to contact my family or anybody at all.”
” You went missing at the shootout.”
” I bled out, tried to cough for breath but I don’t know. I called the emergency team that day. Woke up later and I’m in the hospital.”
” Where did he take you?” She asks.
That I don’t even know. I remembered I try to make a chase at those Russian pricks and the next thing I’m collapsing. And six months later, I’m awake in a hospital with bandages everywhere and then I decide to come see my girl, she’s pregnant.
” I tried to run after them.”
” Were you wearing a bulletproof vest?”
I scoff. I hate that shit.” No.”
” Oh my God…” she sobs.
” Come here.” I wrap my arms around her to hug her carefully. Still can’t believe we’re expecting a baby.
” Thank God you’re okay. I thought I was never gonna see you again.”
I chuckle and she swats my back.” It’s not funny. Nick’s dead , including Carl.” She says and i pull away at once.
” What?”
She nods.” They died at the scene of the shootout. Carl was shot multiple times at wrong places and Nick, he was trying to save me. He took the bullet for me.”
” Fuck.” I cuss.
” And Reid too was shot but he’s fine.”
And Moskov?
Where the fuck is he?
” And that retarded fuck?”
” You swear too much.” She says and flicks my lips. That hurts a little.
” Where’s Moskov, Tink?
” Wow. It’s been a long I heard that name. Tinkerbell. I missed it. A lot.”
Why’s she avoiding my question?
Where’s the Russian fucker?
I can’t believe they took out Nick and Carl. He was one of the best recruits I ever had.
” I killed Moskov.”
What the fuck is she saying?
Is this some new joke of the century?
Or maybe I’ve been in a coma for more than seven years and this is the newest joke people say. She doesn’t smile, nor frown as she stares blankly at me.
No , she didn’t do that, right?
” You killed Moskov?”
” I get it. If I were in your shoes I would have doubted also. I did, with the help of your men. We barged into their warehouse club in Buffalo and took over. And that’s after me and Alexa impersonated two strippers who works with the Mafia and make Alejandro, Moskov’s right hand to spill out Moskov’s hideout.” She says and smiles. ” You can thank me later.” She winks at me, cups my cheeks and pulls me closer to her as she kisses me.
” I missed you a lot.” She whispers in between the kiss and I had to kiss back. Maybe I missed her more. More than anything.
” Thanks.” I tell her.
” For what?” She asks and stops kissing me.
” Everything. Still finding it hard that you killed Moskov. A Russian Mafia boss and you’re pregnant. I wasn’t expecting any of this.”
” Then maybe you should get used to it. It’s 5:am in the morning and by seven I’m always up. I like having tea and a nice foot massage while I take my tea. And also, I eat fruit salad that same morning with a nice coffee. And I like eating food from McDonald’s and also a back rub. I eat a lot lately…” she says with a big smile.
” And in the afternoons , I go to my yoga class sometimes and I do online courses now. Point I’m making is that you’re gonna be driving me every single time that I need it. You’re gonna give me a foot massage, make me coffee, tea, and also fruit salad. You’re gonna order from McDonald’s and give me a nice soothing back rub. You’re gonna stay next to me when I nag and when I need something. You missed all of this when you’re away. Since you’re back, you’re taking your responsibilities and you’re gonna make me a good soup too. I know you’re terrible at cooking, you can watch videos on YouTube on how to make soup and fruit salad too.”
What!
” Yeah. You’re always cute when you act this way. And I miss you.” She says. She wraps her around me for a hug and she kisses me.
Maybe we should just get married. I think it’s time. She’s already twenty one and I missed her birthday.
” I’m sorry about your birthday.” I tell her.
” It’s fine. It doesn’t matter. What matters is that you’re back and strong and annoyingly cute. You should take this off…” she gestures to my stubble. ” You look like Damon when you have that.”
I chuckle and rub my stubble.
” What’s up with him and my mom?”
” Your mom freaked out when I told her. She got mom sickness, cried and still made sure i took care of myself and the baby. And Damon , he was sad.”
” And Kennedy?”
” Super sad. And following Nick’s demise, it was hell Gray.”
I sigh and nod.
” Take me back to bed and cuddle next to me. I’ve been missing it.” She says.
I chuckle softly and look at her baby bump. I hook my arms around her ankles and lift her off from the counter as I walk her to the bedroom. I lay her on the bed and lay next to her with my arms around her waist and touching her stomach.
” Have you thought about a name?” I ask her and cover both of us with the duvet.
” Maybe , but I want you to do the naming.” She says and snuggles closer to me. I sigh and trail my hands on her stomach.
” It’s a boy right?”
” Yeah.” She says.
” Thank you.” I say. I hear her faint reply and she drifts off to sleep.
****
This is stressful.
Being a dad is stressful. I really had to watch videos on how to make soup and even fruit salad. I sucked at the first trial. She said I should make another one and make sure it’s perfect. I gave her a foot massage and also a back rub. It’s afternoon and it’s stressing the shit out of me. Right now we’re just returning from the hospital. She lay across the center console so that her head is on my lap and the other half of her body on the passenger seat.
” Don’t forget we’re stopping by at the grocery shop. I’m lacking groceries.” She says.
” Alright.”
” You should call your mom. She will be glad to listen to your voice again. And also visit your crew.” She advises.
” Yeah, I will.”
” Sure you will. Reid’s been handling things pretty well when you were out. You should take a break. Like vacation and stuff , you know, cause you need it.”
I look down at her face on my lap and smile.
” Canada? I promised I was gonna take you back. I think this is the right time.”
” Yeah, sure. Wait, I’m coming with you?” She asks.
” Yeah. It’s your idea. You need a break.” I say and park the car at the grocery shop.
” Can’t wait to see Kennedy’s face when she finally sees you.” She says as I help her sit up.
I get out of the car and open her side door for her. She holds my hand and steps out. The summer breeze hits her skin as her hair flies in a different direction. I help her tuck her hair behind her ear and she smiles at me. She’s so beautiful.
” You’re gonna be a good dad. You know that right?”
” No. I swear a lot.” I say and close the car door behind her.
” Yeah, right? We’re gonna work on that. And your smoking too.” She says as we begin walking.
” What’s wrong with my smoking?”
” It’s a boy, Gray. We’re just gonna work on the stick you consume a week. We gotta lessen it.” She says as we enter the grocery shop.
I roll my eyes and she hands me a shopping cart.
” You’re gonna carry that and I’ll do the shopping.” She walks down the aisle , looking at every single item. I follow her behind as she throws in every item that she picks.
” You ain’t buying the whole store, are you?”
” I will, if I can.” She turns to look at me and flashes me a warm smile. I can’t believe I didn’t see that face for over six months.
We walk to the counter and place the items there. The counter girl looks up at me and smirks at me. Crazy blonde’s. Ariel stares at her as she bags every item.
” Are you done checking him out?” Ariel asks her.
She turns to look at Ariel like she just discovered Ariel was standing next to me.
” I’m sorry?”
” He hates blondes, just so you should know.” Ariel tells the counter girl.
She swallows and hands the items to me. She stares at Ariel and her eyes lands on Ariel’s stomach.
” I’m really sorry.” She apologizes and I hand her my credit card.
She takes the card , deducts whatever we bought and she gives me back my credit card and I take it. She silently apologizes to Ariel and we leave.
” Should I tape ‘ you’re mine’ on your forehead before they let you be?” Ariel asks.
” Maybe you should.” I laugh at her and open the passenger side door for her. She slides in and I shut the door. I keep the groceries inside the trunk and slide inside the driver’s seat as we leave.
|•ARIEL•|
Dad and Gray stare at each other for what seems like eternity. It’s been five days since he returned and I’m still in awe. I mean I thought I lost him and then he just showed up at my penthouse at such an ungodly hour and surprised me. The mob was grateful he was back and also surprised. So probably Alexa was right, when she said he was in a coma somewhere trying to fight death. He called his mom and she wouldn’t stop screaming. And then I went behind Gray’s back and told his mom we’re visiting Canada soon. And Kennedy, she really freaked out and screamed and she won’t stop hugging Gray for a whole day.
My dad stayed on his own now. He, Aisha, me, and Gray are having dinner in his house and yet they are yet to say a word to each other. Just a staring competition.
” I’m sorry.” Gray breaks the silence.
I dart my head to look at him. He didn’t just apologize.
” I’m sorry for betraying you and taking what’s yours. I’m sorry for backstabbing you and being a little shit. I’m truly sorry. And also if we can still work together again, I’d be honored.” Gray says.
Dad sighs and leans back on his chair. He looks at Gray and then me.
” And why should I forgive you?” Dad asks.
” Because I’m truly sorry and I know I messed up. And also…” Gray looks at me, and back to my dad.
” We’re in love and she’s with my baby, and I wanna marry your daughter.”
What the!
Wait, what? Marry? What’s he saying?
” What?” Dad asks as Aisha smiles at me.
Gray brings out a box from his jacket pocket and I actually lost my breath. No he’s not about to do that. He opens the box and I see it.
Of course he’s about to do that.
Aisha’s smile broadens and dad stares at him in shock. I’m also in shock , because I literally can’t close my mouth any more. He takes out the diamond ring and I am not breathing.
Gray turns to look at me.
” I suck at all these cute speeches actually. I’m really sorry if I didn’t say any.” He says and looks at my left hand before looking back at my eyes.
” Tinkerbell, will you marry me?”
Damn, he just said the word.
Chapter 110
” What’s up with you Ariel?” Piper beams as I slide into the booth next to Brandon.
Piper and Alexa sit across from us at our usual restaurant ‘ sands and winches’. It’s been a long time since we hung out together in this restaurant. All thanks to life.
” I’ve been good.” I say with a big smile as I arrange my yellow sundress.
” What’s up with you guys? I swear I miss college so much.” I sigh and bite my bottom lip.
” Fuck college. It’s just been the same boring shit. How are you holding up with online classes?” Brandon asks.
” It’s been great.” I say.
Alexa stays quiet as she eats her fries.
” Sup with you, Alex? You’ve been quiet.” Brandon says.
” No, I’m good. I miss this so fucking much…” She moans with fries in her mouth and gestures to her fries.
” You’re sick as fuck.” Piper says and we chuckle.
The waitress walks to her table holding a menu. She extends it to me and I shake my head sideways.
” Thanks. I’ll have water.” I tell the waitress as she leaves.
” What’s that on your finger?” Alexa asks as she stops eating.
” What?” I smirk and chuckle.
The guys stare at me with wide eyes as they look at my ring finger. Yup, I told Gray yes. That I was gonna marry him and live in his world. And it’s kinda hard to believe that I’m actually getting married. I really didn’t expect I was gonna get pregnant, talk more of getting married. To Gray Carter. This feels like a dream. A good dream that I don’t wish to wake up from.
And also dad forgave him. Gave him a long speech that if he ever had to break my heart or mistreat me , he’s gonna hear a word from my dad.
” What the fuck is that?” They gape at the wedding ring on my finger.
” Well…” I drawl and smile.
They grab my hand and stare at my ring for what feels like eternity. I look up at them and they are all grinning at me.
” What the fuck? Will you please explain to us what the fuck is going on?”
” Alrighty, I’m getting married.” I announce and silence follows.
” Aah…” They squeal loudly and that actually attracted other customers. The guys didn’t bother to look at them or even say sorry.
” What the flying fuck?” Piper asks.
I nod.” Yeah. I am. Gray proposed yesterday and we’re getting married. Probably after I put to bed.”
” What? Oh my God. Our girl is getting married.” Now it’s Piper’s turn to squeal.
I giggle and shrug.
” This is wonderful. This is epic. Wow. Like we’re looking at the new bride already.” Alexa says.
” Let’s throw a party.” Brandon suggests.
” What! No way…” I laugh.
” What? That’s a great idea. I like it. I mean I know you’re pregnant and all that, but you should do this one last time. You’re fucking getting married girl.” Piper says.
” I don’t really know guys…” I sigh and pout.
” Let’s do it. I like the idea. I mean you’re not only carrying Gray Carter’s baby, bitch you’re getting married to one of the hottest men in New York.” Alexa pressures.
” No, in the fucking country.” Piper adds and they giggle.
” Alright. Let’s do this. But I won’t be drinking much, just some.”
” Deal…” They shriek.
****
By the time Brandon’s plans of throwing a party succeeded , they were already hungover. I wasn’t. I made sure I didn’t drink since I was pregnant. I ate cereal, drank milk, and ate a lot as they boozed off. And right now , they are sprawled on my floor with a terrible headache.
” This is so fucked up.” Brandon mumbles.
” I’m sorry about that.” I flash them a big smile.
” I can’t even move my feet. I badly need some aspirin and water. Ariel, can you please help us?” Alexa asks.
” I would get up and go get that myself if i were you guys. I made breakfast.” I tell them as they spring up at once.
They stride to the kitchen with heavy lidded eyes as they turn on the kitchen faucet with a glass underneath it. I help them with the aspirin and they swallow.
” Serve yourself.” I tell them when I hear my phone vibrate.
I walk back to the living room and get it. I swipe the screen and it’s a text from Gray.
‘ Where are you?’ I read the message.
I smile and text him back.
To Gray; you miss me so soon?
In less than a second he replies.
From Gray: Yeah. Missed the way I make you feel when you’re right beneath me. I don’t mean to be selfish but I kinda want you.
Shit! Where’s my holy water. I just made a confession not too long ago and Gray’s just starting to be Gray. I bite my lip and chuckle silently.
” Hey, Ariel, aren’t you eating?” Piper calls from the kitchen.
” I already ate. I’ll be with you guys soon.” I say and drop a text for Gray.
To Gray; we’re expecting a baby. In the next two months we’re having a baby. So be a good dad and keep your D’
From Gray; Oh yeah. And I didn’t forget that. It’s cute when you’re scared to swear. What are you doing?
To Gray; I’m with the guys. They had a party at my house because I’m getting married and they’re hungover. Where are you?
From Gray; At work. Just dealt with Theo. He had to pay half the other time, but now I got the full amount.
To Gray; What did you do to him, Jamal? Did you hurt him?
I sigh and look at my screen for any message from Gray. I walk back to the kitchen and sit on a stool.
” You’re okay?” They ask and I nod.
My phone buzzes in my hand. I look down at my screen and it’s a message from Gray.
From Gray; Hate it when you care about that miserable fuck called Theo. Have fun with your friends, I love you.
I blow out my breath and lock my screen as I drop it on the counter.
” You sure you’re okay?”
” Yeah, I’m fine.” I smile at them.
” So what’s up with your marriage plans?” Piper asks.
” Hmm.. yeah. What’s up with it?” Alexa hums with food stuffed in her mouth.
” Like I said , I’m giving birth first. Pregnancy isn’t what I expected. And also…” I click my fingers and smile.
” What?” They ask at once.
” I’m visiting Canada again with Gray. I don’t even know when we’re gonna be back.” I say.
” Wow.. I’m jealous.” Piper mutters and we laugh.
” Seriously pipes.”
” What?” She chuckles.
” Alexa got Reid. Brandon got a new lover and I’m stuck. So fucking stuck, my inner woman is worried about me.”
” You once had Jamie, you fucked him up.” Brandon says.
” It’s not my fault alright…” she points out and throws her hand in surrender. ” We weren’t a thing. We couldn’t work out and you know… I had to leave.” Piper says and drinks her water from the glass.
” There are thousands of hot assholes in college. You’ve been ignoring their signals.” Alexa tells her.
” Whatever. Maybe I should focus more on school , considering the fact that I’m graduating next year.”
” I can’t wait to get the fuck out of school. That shit sucks.” Alexa says and we laugh.
” And also we can’t wait to plan your wedding together Ariel. I’m gonna love it.” Brandon says and smiles at me.
” This feels all too new to me. I’m scared. Being a mom, a wife and all that shit.” I huff and grab a bottle of water as I uncap it.
” It’s no big deal. Rock it the way you want. It’s your world.” Alexa advises.
” Yup, she’s right.” Piper says and we giggle.
****
I hop out of bed and run my fingers down my hair. We are in Canada and Gray decides to pay for a suite till our visit expires. I turn to look at Gray, he’s standing at the balcony, shirtless and smoking. I go to the bathroom and look at my reflection in the mirror. I wrap my hair in a ponytail and look at my baby bump.
Gray made sure I slept with only white lace bra and panties. Like he said , he hates it when I wear clothes to bed. Really crazy. I spread toothpaste on my brush and brush my teeth. I turn on the faucet and rinse my mouth. I lick my bottom lip, stare at my reflection one last time and leave.
I walk to the balcony and wrap my arms around his torso from behind.
” You feel warm.” He says and turns around with a cigarette stuck in between his lips.
He pulls it out , blows the smoke above my head, reminding me that I’m petite and he’s taller than me. He tips the bottom of the cigarette and drops the stick on the ashtray resting on the railings.
” You look beautiful.” He says and leans down to place a kiss on my lips.
” Thank you.” I smile at him.
” So we’re getting married, huh?” He smirks at me.
” Still in shock. I’m scared.”
” Why?”
” Being a wife and mother. This feels new.” I tell him.
He chuckles and smiles at me.
” You will be good alright. Doesn’t really matter. We’ve got each other. I hope I don’t be a bad dad either.” He shrugs.
” You’ll be good.” I assure him and trail my fingers on his inked man.
” I’m still thinking about what my life’s gonna be like if I didn’t barge into your car.” He says and that makes my heart flutter.
” Come here.” He pulls me to himself and hugs me. His arms circle around my waist and I wrap my arms around his torso while I trace my forefinger down his spine.
” I told my mom we arrived. She wants us to come over and eat with them. She badly wants to see you.” He says and kisses my hair.
I nod in his embrace and breathe in his scent.
” Nice lingerie. They are hot. I like the panties better.” He whispers against my neck and I can literally feel him smirking against my skin.
I chuckle and swat his back.
” Perv.”
” Your perv.” He pulls back to look at me as his hands rest on my hips. They travel down to my butt and I breathe in.
” So what are we calling this young man?” He says and tips his chin down my belly.
” You go first.”
” Haven?”
I giggle and bite my bottom lip.
” Kennedy suggested that in her book of names.” I say.
” And I like it. It’s kind of badass just like I want it.” He says and pulls me to himself and the next thing we’re kissing.
” I love you.” He says between the kisses.
” I love you too.”
|•GRAY•|
Two months after…
I pace around the hospital’s waiting room with my hands in my pocket. It’s been two hours since Ariel was rushed inside a hospital room and I haven’t heard a thing from the doctor or the nurses. I run my hand down my hair and blow out my breath. I sit on the chair with both my elbows on my knees as I run my hands down my hair. Shit I’m scared.
What if she needs me?
What if something happened to her and she wants me to be there with her?
What if! Fuck me, maybe I’m just thinking things.
Alexa walks into the waiting room looking into her purse as she strides to my direction. I don’t even know if she sees me or not.
” Goddamnit.” She cusses and looks up at me.
” Hey , boss. Is she okay?”
” I don’t know. Haven’t heard a shit from any doctor. Fuck. ” I huff and bite my bottom lip.
” Damn. I think she will be fine. She’s in labor Gray and labor doesn’t happen fast, it takes time.”
” You’re not a nurse Alexa.”
She nods and blinks her eyes.
” Yeah, true.”
” What the fuck did you take? You’re high.”
” Damn, you Spencer.” She hisses and wipes her nose.
” Did he give you coke or what?”
” I just had a swipe. I badly wanted to try that shit and I fuckin hate it. My bad , Spencer is a freak.” She giggles.
” How can you be here when you’re high as fuck?”
” I need to be here for my Ariel. I know you got it covered, I just wanna be one of the first people to see our badass kid. Fuck you, Spencer, for giving me coke.” She mumbles the last part.
” I thought I told him to quit bringing that shit to my house. What the fuck is wrong with his dumbass?”
” It’s kinda weird, you’re a mob boss but you don’t do coke and yet you ship them.”
I turn to look at her and huff. I shouldn’t be having this conversation with her. I’m still worried about Ariel. I just wanna make sure she’s fine. That our son is fine. Fuck it. I walk down the hallway to the direction they took her and I hear Alexa follow behind me.
” Do you wanna watch her give birth?”
” Fuck, yeah, I don’t mind.” I say.
” That’s gonna be weird. Watching your baby slide out from heaven. That’s gonna be fun.” She giggles and I roll my eyes.
I stop at the door and walk in. There she lays, weak as fuck as she breathes in and out. A nurse holds a little infant in her hands as she smiles at him.
” Aww…” Alexa coos beside me and the doctor and his two nurses turn to look at us, including Ariel. Can’t fucking believe they didn’t use a female doctor to deliver the baby.
She smiles at me and I am too shocked to even say a word. Can’t believe I have a son now. The nurse walks to me and motions for me to carry him. He squirms when the nurse stretches him to me. I carry him from her and Alexa won’t stop giggling. I blow out my breath and hold him careful. The infant opens his eyes and his grey eyes meet mine.
Fuck me, he had to look like me.
” Damn. We should throw a party for our future bad boy.” Alexa squeals as she takes the infant’s little hand in hers.
I think my life has just obviously begun…
🎉 You have reached the end of this novel — Until I Met You has been completed. Thanks for reading!