Ch. 51..55: Until I Met You Chapter 51-55
Chapter 51
Daniel comes back to me and look at this new occupant. The other bartender already give him his drink.
” You want something?” Daniel asks the guy.
” How much did Gray pay you to look after his little girlfriend?” The guy asks Daniel.
” What do you really want , Cage ?” Daniel asks.
” Mind your business man , or I won’t hold back to fuck you up.” He threatens Daniel.
” If he do shit , call me okay. I’d better have Gray kill me or fire me than have you throw a punch at me.” He directs his last statement to the guy before leaving.
Cage or whatever his name is, chuckles and turns to look at me.
” Why did Gray have to bring you here , Ariel?”
” How did you know my name?”
He chuckles again and chug half his drink.” You are Gray’s. Who doesn’t know you. You shouldn’t have come here in the first place . The fact that you’re in his club doesn’t mean they can’t hurt you.” He winks and smirks.
” I don’t know what you want with me.”
” Maybe I want the same thing Gray wants from you. You’re pretty and will make a good mistress.” He looks into my eyes and shift his gaze to my lips.
I roll my eyes and remove the straw from my drink and chug down the entire beverage down my throat.
” Cage.” I hear Gray’s voice beside me. He looks at me and glares at Mr Cage.
” What the fuck are you doing with my girl?”
For some awkward reasons Cage doesn’t look frightened or even threatened.
” Sorry dad , i was telling her she’s hot.” Cage smirks and lift his glass to his lips to chug down the remaining content of his wine.
” Get out Cage.”
” I should get out because I told your girlfriend she’s hot ? Don’t cause a tantrum Gray. Look around , everyone’s got eyes on her.” Cage says and smirks. Okay he’s a little creepy but cute.
Gray clenches his fist and I had to hold his arm. I’m already on my feet and I’m in between them.
” I’m gonna leave bro.” Cage says and stands up.
” Don’t just leave , get out of my club. Don’t come back , cause I won’t be this friendly next time.”
Cage chuckles and straightens his black jacket. He has a gun too , cause I see it in his jacket. Cage smirks at me and leave. Gray licks his bottom lip and look around the club. It seems nobody notice what happened between Gray and Cage , except for these men on black suits whom that lady gave them the white powder. They look at me and go back to talking.
Gray turns back to me and lock eyes with me. He didn’t say a word and I’m bothered.
” Daniel.” Gray calls out to the bartender as he rush to him.
” Gray please don’t. It wasn’t his fault. He truly looked out for me , don’t fire him.”
” I wasn’t going to fire him. Just wanted to punch him.” Gray glares at Daniel and takes a deep breath.
” Fuck off.” Gray orders.
Daniel nods and go back to work. Gray grabs my arm and walk me out of the club. We step out to the dark night as Gray opens the passenger door for me to get in. I slide in and he shuts the door. He turns around and enter the driver’s seat. The drive was terrible cause none of us decide to start a conversation.
” You’re okay?” He breaks the silence.
” Yeah. Who was that?”
” Who? Cage?”
” Yeah , Cage. He said he’s been looking for me. He had to use the crazy line you used today. What’s up with him ?”
” Just some random person.”
” You’re always lying.” I mutter and look out the window.
” I’m always lying? Oh really? Fuck.”
” Then tell me who he was. Why did he act like that towards me. Like he wanted me.”
” Everyone wants you Ariel.”
” Why?” I yell.
” Why?” He yells back.” Oh you want me to tell you? Fine I’ll tell you.” He yells even louder than usual. I flinch and move back to hit my side against the door.
” You make me mad sometimes.” He says calmly and turns to look at me. He sighs and look back at the road.
” I’m sorry that I yelled at you.” That wasn’t even an answer to what i needed. Why was Cage so weird.
” He’s a dick like Vladimir.”
” And you did business with him too? Outsmart him and took what belongs to him as well?”
He chuckles and looks at me. He smirks and bites his bottom lip.
” That’s bad. You must have hurt a lot of people.” I mutter.
” You basically don’t trust me , do you ?”
” You know you’re being…. I don’t know what to call it. If I don’t trust you then, I don’t see reasons on why I’m in a relationship with you. I trust you Gray.”
” Then why did you just assume that i overshadowed Cage too. What happened between me and Vladimir is not what you think. I wanted that Chinese affiliation. But then it wasn’t possible because they weren’t searching. Vladimir went behind my back and took it . I can’t just sit back and let him keep it. I took what’s mine.”
” Now look at us. Vladimir won’t stop till he hurts me. Now Cage.”
” Cage shouldn’t bother you including Vladimir. As long as you stay in my house nothing’s gonna happen to you.”
” So what happens once i step out of your house? They are gonna come after me as usual.” I scoff .
Gray place his right hand on my thighs and squeezes it gently.
” You know I won’t let no one hurt you right?” I doubt that sometimes.
” That doesn’t matter Gray. Your enemies are too much.”
” You don’t have to freak out because of that. They want what I have. Something they couldn’t work for.”
” And what’s that?”
He sighs , clearly bored of the conversation.
” Ariel, I don’t want you to hate me. I’ve done a lot of bad things with bad people and sincerely I don’t want you to get involved with it. I care about you too much to let anything happen to you.” He says and briefly glances at the rearview mirror.
” What type of bad things Gray ?”
” Can you drive ?” He asks at once.
” Uh…”
He glances back at the rearview mirror again and open his compartment to bring out a gun. God no , not again. I mentally freeze and look behind me. There’s a car on our tail and it’s almost close to ours. Why can’t they just give up!
” Drive , Tinkerbell.” He says and shove out another gun from his jacket. So when am I supposed to get used to this ?
He lets go of the steering wheel and motion for us to swap seats. Now I’m freaking out. He push his seat back and lift me off my seat for me to take over the wheel. In less than few seconds we swap seats and I’m driving.
” Why are they always after us? When is this ever going to end?” I yell. My hands tremble against the wheel and I’m already whimpering. It’s obvious if I continue this game with Gray then maybe I’ll come out dead.
God , why can’t I hate him already ?
The car behind us appear beside us and I’m already loosing my mind.
” Ariel , breathe. Swerve to the left and slow down the speed.” He says calmly. ” Anxiety is gonna take you out if you keep on driving like that.” He winks and even smirks.
Seriously , like this is the time to wink or even smirk. I forgot sometimes that he’s a crackhead.
I take several deep breaths as Gray pushes a button. His side mirror rolls down as Gray turns to look at the driver. The car is tinted but I can bet there are more than two people in that car. Out of nervousness , i swerve the car to the left as Gray pulls the trigger at the driver. I gasp and almost loose control of the wheel. I tried my best not to look at the bloody mess. Gray’s stunt seems to alert the other occupants of the vehicle because they started shooting back.
” Ariel , duck.” Gray says through gritted teeth as he shoots endlessly at the other vehicle.
This isn’t helping. The bullet almost hit me and that made me panic. I sob and my eyes are already blurry. I swear , bullet sounds are louder in real life than movies. I barely can hear a thing and my hands are going weak because of shock. The shooting didn’t end and I can hear both shooters groan. I swerve and speed up , same time I had to slow down because they won’t stop shooting at each other. I need to go to church and plead for forgiveness. I don’t know why my life is filled with violence and danger.
” Fuck , babe.” I turn to my side as Gray smirks at me.
He pulls the last trigger at the rivals and I had to look at the mess he created. The car’s windows are design with bullet holes and blood. I believe all the occupant are dead but Gray’s bleeding. He was shot.
” Gray you’re bleeding.” I remind him.
” Can you increase the speed?” He asks calmly and shrug off his jacket. His plain white t-shirt is blood stained. He was shot in his arm and he’s not bothered.
” Gray , you’re bleeding and you need to go the hospital.”
” Tinkerbell , I’m fine.”
I whimper and grip tightly to the wheel. I’m really fed up of all this crazy stunt. How am I supposed to behave normal with a bleeding boyfriend by my side.
” My penthouse.” He says flatly and hold tight to his bleeding arm.
I roll my eyes and bite my lip. A tear slip out of my eyes and I didn’t notice I’m crying.
” Tinkerbell.”
” Just leave me alone.” I sob and halt the car in front of his penthouse building.
I quickly hop out of the car to help him out but just like the annoying man he is , he gets out of the car before I even get to his side. He shuts the door and flung his jacket over his shoulder. He release the grip on his arm that was shot as he wraps his non injured hand around my waist.
” Gray , this isn’t the time.” I whine and unwrap his hands from me.
” This isn’t even a hospital. You’re bleeding.” I panic.
He groans and holds my elbow as we walk into the lobby. We ignore the lady at the lobby as we take the elevator. I pressed the button to his penthouse as the elevator ascend. I whimper and turn to look at him. He still grips to his bleeding arm and shoot me a smile that simply says ‘i’ll be fine.’
How can I not panic. First we were attacked and he was shot. When is this ever ending? The elevator slides open and I help him out. He chuckles and type in his house code. The door opens and we get in.
” Damn…” Gray pushes his jacket off his shoulders and pull the shirt above his head. It’s obvious this isn’t the first time he was shot.
” What are we supposed to do? You don’t even have any kits at all. No Band-Aids , no scissors , nothing. Gray..”
” Tinkerbell , just calm down.” He hisses in pain and leads me to the kitchen.
He asks me to go to his room and retrieve a first aid kit. I never knew he had that. I search through his room and finally found one. I’m already panicking and sooner than later I’m freaking out. Gray sits on the kitchen stool still holding to his bleeding arm. Seriously , i never thought Gray would ever be shot.
” I’ll be fine. Stop panicking.”
I roll my eyes and sit the first aid kit on the counter. I open it and rummage through the items.
” Take the scissors first. You can remove the bullet with that.”
” What?” I panic. ” I can’t remove a bullet. I don’t even know how to do it.” I breathe and try to calm my panic state.
” Look at me.”
I blink my teary eyes and look up at Gray’s. He cup my cheek and run his blood stained thumb pad on my cheek.
” I’m the one who’s shot okay. Just take the scissors and pull out the bullet. Except you want me to die of excess bleeding.” He says.
I shake my head and sob. He pulls me to himself and kisses my forehead.
I take several deep breaths and pick up the scissors. My hand trembles and my feet are already wobbly. I can do this. Breathe Ariel. I raise my head to look at his eyes. He smiles at me and motions for me to go on. I pierce the scissors inside his skin and he didn’t even wince. After several battling, I remove the bullet.
Damn , I’ve never seen a bullet before. This one is tiny and weird. I drop the bullet on the counter and clean his wound with alcohol. He watches every single move of mine and I’m uncomfortable. I treat the wound and stitch it and bandage his arm. I put the instruments back inside the first aid kit and wash my hands. I’m still angry at him. I don’t even know when this will ever stop. Each time we step out , we’re always supposed to be vigilant because of some psychotic assholes who won’t leave me alone. Or probably us alone.
I take a quick shower and put on his t-shirt under my panties. I go back to the living room and Gray’s watching TV. He doesn’t even look bothered that he just got shot. Maybe I’m just overreacting. I cross my arms and lean against the doorway as i watch him. I think he hasn’t notice my presence or maybe he chose to pretend not to notice me.
” Ariel.” He calls out and dart his head to my form.
I breathe out and push myself off the doorframe and stalk to the couch opposite the TV that he’s sitting. He grabs the hem of his shirt I’m wearing and pulls me to himself. I fall on his lap and straddle him.
” Are you still angry?” He asks and pinches my nipple. Like this is the time to flirt with me.
I bite my lip and look down at my hands that rest on his chest. My gaze move to his bandage arm that was shot.
” You know I’m angry.” I scoff and swat his hand off my nipple.
He chuckles and grab my hips to pull me closer to him.
” I’m sorry.” He says and wraps his arms around my waist. His head nuzzles my neck as his thumb caresses my lower back.
” I hate seeing you angry.” He whispers and kisses my cheek.
” How are you feeling?” I ask and thread my fingers through his hair.
” You’re here , that’s what matters.” He kisses my cheek and then peck my lips.
I sigh and trail my fingers on his body. My finger graze gently on the bullet wound.
” I was scared. Thought I was gonna loose you.” I mutter and raise my head to look into his eyes. He leans his head on the headrest of the couch and look into my soul.
His eyes always hold so many emotions that I barely could fathom. We stay quiet as he lock eyes with me. Goosebumps rise on my skin as he slowly trails his fingers on my leg to my thigh. His eyes not breaking from mine. My heart beat hammers against my chest and he’s making me want him.
” Who are those people? Why are they after you?”
He smirks and sits up. He runs his fingers down my back and pull me to him. His lips slightly brush against mine and he’s not saying a word. He’s avoiding my question. He plant soft kisses down my neck to my chest. He holds the back of my neck and clasp his lips on mine. He’s my weakness. No matter how hard I’ve try to shut out all this crazy doubt about him , it’s not always working. I mean we got attacked and he’s not bothered or even answering my questions.
I hopelessly wrap my arms around his neck and kiss him back. His hands move up my hips as he desperately kisses me. I trail my fingers on his body making sure of his bullet wound. After our desperate make out , we stop kissing as he leans his forehead against mine. Our breathing mix with the temperature of the room and the sound coming out from the TV.
He slowly opens his eyes to lock eyes with mine. I raise my hand and trail my middle finger on his jawline.
” You’re cute when you’re scared.” He says.
Seriously. I was expecting an explanation of what happened and he had to tell me I’m cute when I’m scared. I roll my eyes and drop my hands on my side.
” Who are they, Gray? Why where they after us? Was it some of your enemies? Who’s Cage?”
He stays silent and bites his lips without saying a word.
” Gray.”
” What?”
” Who are they?” I ask getting impatient with his sickening attitude.
” You know who they are Ariel. They are gangsters.”
” Gangsters?” I ask and he didn’t say a word.
” Gray , are you also one of them ?”
” Tinkerbell , drop it.” He says dryly.
” I should drop it?” Now I’m getting offended. I mean we were attacked and he was shot. So i should just sit back and drink Coke and also assume everything’s fine when clearly nothing is fine.
I get off his lap and stand up.
” Gray , I need explanations. Why can’t you just tell me you’re also part of it.” I yell. He didn’t answer and I’m irritated.
God , why can’t I hate him already. I bite my lip and watch him. His blank expression that’s glue to the TV. He looks up at me and yet he didn’t say a word. Now I hate him. I turn my back and walk out on him. I wish I can just leave him alone , but it’s so hard and nearly impossible.
He’s got me wrapped around his fingers.
Chapter 52
I wake up to an empty bed the following morning. I rub my eyes and blink them. The bustling and rustling of the busy city below us can be heard. I mean this is New York , what am I supposed to expect.
I push the blanket aside and sit up on the bed with my feet not even close to the floor. I sigh and walk to the floor to ceiling glass walls that view the city. I itch my eyelids and push the white drapes aside. I look down at the city below the penthouse and they look tiny.
I go to the bathroom to brush my teeth and yesterday’s incident flows into my head. Gangsters. Gangsters who wants him dead and also they want me as bait to get whatever thing they need from Gray. I don’t even blame them that much. What ever shitty business Gray did , I’m sure he hurt a lot of people. And this stupid shooting stunt isn’t ending any time soon. I drop the toothbrush and stare at my reflection. I look a bit weird because of last night’s stunt. I walk out of the bathroom and wonder where Gray is. I look around the living room and the sight of smoke almost made me panic. Faint music plays in the living room and there’s smoke coming from the kitchen.
” Jesus…” I cough. Gray just burnt an entire breakfast.
” What are you doing ?” I ask him and cough slightly.
He pouts and shrugs. I chuckle and look around the kitchen. He was trying to cook and obviously , he burnt the kitchen.
” What did you do ?” I ask and pick up the spatula to point at him.
He chuckles. Thank God the smoke is almost out.
” You were sleeping and I wanted to be a good boyfriend , so i thought I should prepare you something. I’m sorry , it’s stupid , I burnt it.” He shrugs and run his fingers through his hair.
I throw my head back and laugh. Now he’s amused cause I just laughed at him.
” Jesus , Jamal.”
He rolls his eyes and watch me carefully.
” You look pretty when you laugh at me.” He says dryly.
I roll my eyes and help him clean the table.
” I should be at school today. Today is Monday.”
” You’re skipping class.”
I raise my head to look at him. He winks at me above the rim of his glass as he drinks the water. I sigh and bite my tongue.
” What about work ?”
” Same thing.”
” Gray , really. I won’t go to school today and i won’t go to work. What am I supposed to tell Theo.”
” That your boyfriend , Gray Carter ask you to skip work today because he wants to have alone time with his girlfriend. He doesn’t have a choice.”
I sigh and drop the napkin.” But that’s not fair. It’s like you’re intimidating him.”
” That’s exactly what I’m doing. He’s a dick.” He scoffs and drops the glass on the counter.
” I’m gonna think about it. I can’t stay at home all day with you.”
” I’m not hot enough ?” He leans his elbows on the counter and watch me with his seductive smirk.
I chuckle and bite my bottom lip.” You’re such a jerk. I didn’t say that.”
” Then what are you saying?” He asks softly as he make his way to my side of the counter.
” Yes , Tinkerbell.” He whispers in my ears and wraps his hands around my waist. I breathe into the new feeling and blush.
The closeness of our body makes my body want him so badly. I lean against his chest as he kisses my neck. Now i forgot I’m supposed to be asking about his arm.
” How’s your arm?” I ask.
” Better than ever.” He answers against the skin of my neck.
I turn around to inspect his wound and he presses me against the counter so I can’t escape. I trace my fingers along the wound careful and he looks better. I mean he always looks better. He doesn’t even act like someone who got shot.
” This got me scared.” I murmur and trace my fingers on the bandage.
” Thank God you’re fine.” I breathe out and wrap my arms around his torso.
” So you care about me this much?” He asks and furrows his brows.
” Shut up! You know I will always care about you. You make me happy Gray.” I say and rest my head on his chest still holding his waist.
” You make me happy too.” He replies , barely above a whisper.
His right hand runs through my hair and he kisses my temple. I trace my fingers down his spine and he gently lift me off the ground and sit me on the counter.
” I’m going home today , Gray.”
” You know I won’t let you.” He says softly.
I chuckle and roll my eyes. ” I have to. I’ve stayed with you more than two weeks now. Don’t you think I should go back to the apartment.”
” What if someone comes after you and I’m not there to protect you?”
I sigh and look up at his face.
” Gray , how long am i supposed to hide from all this drama. I’m serious , I’m tired of it. You don’t expect me to go around town being self cautious because of this stupid gangsters. I’m tired Gray. I don’t mean to sound selfish but I want my normal life back.” I sigh and hop out of the counter.
I set out the bowl and ingredients to make pancakes for Gray and i. He isn’t saying a word and I’m in need of a word from him. I want him to say something. If he’s not tired of this awkward situation whereby any minute from now, some men are just gonna barge into our privacy just to shoot at us. I swear , I’m already tired.
” Is Cage part of yesterday’s shoot out ?” I ask mixing the ingredients.
” You ain’t giving up , are you ?”
” Gray , if you want us to work out , you need to start telling me everything about you.”
” I thought you know almost everything about me.” He says sarcastically.
I huff and tap my finger on the countertop. He’s being annoying right now.
” Are you also a gangster ?”
He looks irritated and bored.
” I don’t wanna talk about it.”
So that’s it? He doesn’t wanna talk about it. It’s no longer Vladimir now it’s Cage. A green eyed freak who’s also his rival. How did I get myself in this mess? I wasn’t thinking obviously. Now I’m a bait to everyone. To everyone who thinks it’s smart to come after me just to get at Gray. I mix the items on the bowl and place the pan on the stove to start cooking.
After taking out the pancakes on two different plates. I swirl syrup over my pancakes and little on Gray’s. I carry both plates to the living room and drop them on the glass table close to the couch opposite the TV. Gray’s watching a football game with the volume low. I bet he’s not even concentrating on it. It’s obvious his mind has traveled to God knows where.
I ignore him completely and eat my breakfast in silence. He hasn’t touched his yet and seriously , I’m bothered. I look at him at the corner of my eyes and he looks deep in thoughts. I wanted to ask him if he’s okay and then i remembered I’m supposed to be angry at him. He owe me an explanation and also an apology for making my life complicated.
“So you’re not asking me if I’m eating or not , hmm?” He asks and turns to look at me. Damn , that smirk. It literally makes my heart beat.
I look straight at the TV and bite the inside of my cheek to keep me from blushing.
” What happened to the syrup? Mine is empty.”
” I thought you don’t like it.” I reply dryly , making sure I don’t make eye contact with him. I feel him smirk and he leans closer to me on the couch. I swallow and try to keep up with my angry facade. Of course it’s not possible. Gray’s my addiction and my distraction.
He gently snatches my plate from me and chuckle at my playful glare at him.
” I can’t believe you try to stay angry at me?” He muses with a smirk and eat my pancakes.
” Gray that isn’t yours.” I whine.
” I see nothing wrong in wanting your food.”
I roll my eyes and take a slice from his and eat. He only chuckles beside me and finish both plates.
~~~
I wipe the plates with the napkin and arrange them back to their place. Gray walks into the kitchen and I’m still mad at him. I ignore him and turn on the tap of the sink to wash my hands. Suddenly , Gray wraps his arms around my waist from behind and kiss my nape. I shudder , trying not to get tempted with his seduction.
He kisses down my nape to my shoulder blade as he kiss up to the side of my neck.
” Gray , don’t.” I warn but he doesn’t listen.
He smirks against my skin and gently bites my neck. Surprisingly , I shut my eyes and collapse to his touch. I bite my tongue to stop me from moaning but it’s fruitless.
” I’m sorry.” He whispers and kiss my hair.
” Sorry , for?”
” Everything that I’ve put you through. I’m such an idiot for wanting something as beautiful as you. And maybe I’m selfish for keeping you.” He sighs and turns me around leaning me against the counter.
His hands stays at the sides of my body as he kisses me. I part my lips giving him more entrance and I moan.
” Take a shower with me?” He asks after breaking from our intense make out.
I roll my eyes and swat his hands. He chuckles and lift me off the ground as my legs curl around his waist. I squeal when he pinches my hips all the way to the bathroom. I’m visiting Alexa today and Piper and Brandon texted me to ask if I’ll be checking up on her. I rest both hands on the cold wall of the bathroom as Gray sponge my skin gently. He kisses my hair from behind me as the warm water rinse our skins. I get out of the shower while Gray stay back to rinse himself off the lather.
.
***
.
I sing along the song from the radio as Gray drive us to the hospital. He chose to follow me for security reasons. Said he doesn’t want me to get hurt.
” You are sounding like Kennedy right now.” He says.
I scrunch my face and jab my elbows on his ribs. He laughs to my crazy attempt of hurting him. He didn’t feel it at all.
” Why would you say that ?” I whine.
” Your voice.”
” I sing great.” I protest.
” I know. You sing really good but right now you’re sounding like Kennedy.”
I roll my eyes and cross my arms.
” Don’t tell me you’re mad.” Gray says and place his hand on my lap.
I smile and swat his hand off my lap and I pull my knees to my chest.
” I’m sorry.” He says. I bite my bottom lip and burst into laughter.
” You’re cuter when you care.” I smile and turn to look at him. I poke his cheek and pinch it.
He glares playfully at me. I watch him handle the wheel as we pull up at the hospital. We walk inside the hospital and I’m nervous again. Most times i can’t believe the fact that Alexa got shot. It’s so hard to believe. I open the door to her room and peek my head inside before stepping in. She look just the same , pale and not even responding. Gray shuts the door and lean against the wall close to the door with his hands tuck in his pockets.
” Why would Vladimir shoot her?” I ask no one in particular. I sit on the chair close to her bed and sigh. Probably I’m the reason for her laying in the hospital. Maybe he wanted me dead and she didn’t want it to happen.
” Manny. Where are you?” Gray speaks on the phone.
I didn’t hear the other voice from the background. With one hand holding his phone , his other hand smooth his hair.
” Vladimir is not in the country?” Gray sighs and hangs up , shoving his phone in his jacket.
” What happened?” I ask.
” Vlad flew out of the country. I think he’s in Russia. Maybe he shot her afterwards and left the country. He’s such a pussy.”
I sigh and look at the monitor. She’s not even showing any sign of survival.
” Oh my God. I’m sorry we….” I dart my head to the door to see Piper and Brandon. I don’t know what made them freeze but I’m certain it’s Gray.
I chuckle and shake my head sideways.
” Oh. Hey , hi.” They say to Gray. Gray smiles warmly and nods.
” When did you arrive?” Piper asks sitting next to me on Alexa’s bed.
” Not quite long.”
” Have you seen the doctor?” Brandon asks.
” No. Haven’t seen any doctor since I arrive.” I heave a deep breath and slide my hand down my face.
” I’m gonna wait outside. Gotta take this.” Gray waves his phone at me and walks out.
” We didn’t expect you’d bring your boyfriend , girl.” They muses.
I roll my eyes and cross my arms.
” You skip school today. Are you gonna go to work?”
” Gray won’t let me. I can’t protest on that. He called Theo and told him I’ll not be coming to work today.”
They giggles and ruffles my hair.
” Stop it.” I laugh and swat their hands away.
The doctor from the other day walks in holding her clipboard. She smiles at us and walks to the other side of Alexa’s bed. She’s still breathing through oxygen.
” How’s she?” We ask the doctor.
” Same. We hope she’s gonna get better though.” The doctor sighs and holds Alexa’s wrist to check her pulse .
She scribbles something on her clipboard and look back at her heart rate on the monitor. She sighs deeply and lastly move her gaze back to Alexa.
” You should keep on hoping. She might get better. She bled so much before she was brought here. It’s one of the reasons she’s barely responding.”
I nod and the doctor walks out. I look at Brandon and Piper who looks speechless as well.
” So what’s gonna happen if she doesn’t make it?” I ask.
” Ariel , I thought you wanted to be a nun. Where’s your faith?” Piper asks and smirks.
I chuckle and stare at her in awe.” Piper , you’re not religious.” Brandon laughs too and shakes his head.
” Sincerely , I believe she’ll will be fine. She’s gonna fight it out. She’s a strong woman.” Brandon says.
” So who else thinks Brandon should be a therapist or maybe a motivational speaker?” I ask. Piper and Brandon throws their head back and laugh.
” I support.” Piper adds. Brandon rolls his eyes and shove his hands in his pockets.
” How was class ?”
” Terrible as fuck. I also need to copy from your statistics paper.” Piper says.
” You’re tripping.”
” I ain’t fuckin kidding , boo. I can’t think about anything actually. So tomorrow when coming to school , bring it to school.”
” Yes , mother.” I huff and bite my tongue.
” What’s up with Jamie?” I ask.
” Damn girl. That nigga is a virgin.” Piper burst out.
” What the fuck!” Brandon exclaims.
” Can you please be easy? You don’t wanna wake her up.” I utter. The guys chuckles.
” fuck , Ariel she’s in coma. And by the way, we want her to be awake.”
” Whatever. Back to that Jamie. Piper you took his virginity ?”
” fuck , yeah.” She smirks and shuts her eyes trying to fantasize whatever thing she did with Jamie.
” You need to see his face when I go down on him. shit.” Piper emphasizes.
” Okay , that’s gross. It’s enough.”
” Yeah , totally gross.” Brandon adds and burst into laughter.
~~~
We left after spending hours at Alexa’s hospital room. I had to argue with Gray countless times about sending me home but he didn’t listen. After taking some strange call he decides to take me back to my apartment. I walk into the apartment and shut the door behind me. This feels like forever. I hear chatters coming from the kitchen and i know that voice. Leslie and her best friend , Hazel.
” Look who decides to show up.” Leslie smirks at me.
” Hi , Ariel.” Hazel grins and stuff her mouth with baked beans.
” So you got rid of it? And you’re celebrating it? ” I cross my arms and lean against the doorframe.
” Yeah , Hallelujah.” Leslie glares at me and rolls her eyes.
” You’re such a shitty disgrace.” I retort.
” I beg your pardon! bitch mind your business.” Leslie fires back.
” I wish you can also listen to your dumb advice of minding your business. It’s stupid your precious parents didn’t find out about it.” I scoff and turn to go to my room.
***
.
Piper and I walk quickly down the hospital hallway the following day after school. Gray as usual asked Nick to drive me to school even if I’m hanging around my apartment now. My parents called earlier today , saying I should come home with Leslie for family dinner that she misses us and would love to see us.
We open the door and step inside the room. I shut the door and stare at Alexa’s supposed room. It wasn’t the same as yesterday. Piper and I look around and it’s obviously her room. But something is wrong , she’s missing.
Chapter 53
Okay Ariel.
Don’t panic. Think positive. Maybe the doctor’s took her out for some treatment and they couldn’t do the treatment in her room.
What if they shot her again?
What if she’s kidnapped?
What if she’s dead?
What if-?
Jesus , for Christ sake think positive. If anything happens to her , her parents will never forgive me. No matter how hard I try to apologise.
” What the fuck! Where the fuck is she? She was right here , right?” Piper rambles.
I think I’m the only one who’s panicking.
” Okay. We should look at the bright side. She might be around. Let’s check under the bed. Maybe she was attacked by some weirdo and she was pushed under the bed.” I say.
Piper looks at me weirdly and blink her eyes. God , why’s this even happening in the first place. Obviously I know why , I said i don’t want a college student as a boyfriend and then I chose to date a mystery man called Gray Carter. So much for falling In love. Piper and I made a mistake by looking under the hospital bed and then we freaked out.
” What the fuck!” Piper scream out panicking.
The doctor Kayla , rushes in as she stares at us totally baffled.
” What the hell is going on in this hospital of yours? Where’s she?” I ask and point to Alexa’s bed.
” What are you talking about?” The doctor stutters.
” There’s a fuckin dead body under her bed and she’s no where to be found.” Piper yells.
Another doctor walks in and it’s a man. He looks at us totally bewildered. It’s like he heard our conversation.
” What’s going on?” The male doctor asks.
” Our friend was admitted here and she’s in coma. We came in to check on her and she’s no where to be found. There’s a dead man under her bed. What is wrong with this hospital?” I cross my arm and whimper.
I just saw a dead body and just a little hope is the only thing that’s keeping me from panicking. Infact I panicked. The male doctor squat to look under the bed as he gasp. He drags the body out and his face was covered with his suit jacket. I look the other side as the doctor removed the jacket from his face.
” Holy fuck.”
I dart my head back to the body and it’s a man. He has tattoos because few are seen around his neck. He was stabbed in the eyes and it’s obvious it was a syringe and lastly he looks pale.
” He was overdosed.” The male doctor says and stand to his feet.
” Overdosed?” Piper and I ask.
” Yes. Maybe he came here to hurt her and probably overdose her but he couldn’t succeed. Now the question is , who overdosed him instead? And where’s the patient?”
” We’re not dectectives. You should be answering that , not us.” Piper replies , sarcastically.
I walk to the body to take a proper look at it. It’s a Russian man. My mind snap to one person. Vladimir. He sent him to kill her but someone else killed him and kidnapped her body. But who?
” Look , we don’t care who did it but , you should look for our friend. She can’t go missing just like that. What’s even wrong with your staff? Your jobs was to look after your patients and not to get busy while intruders try to murder them.” I scoff and drag Piper out of Alexa’s hospital ward.
” Who do you think would wanna kill her again?”
” Same person who shot her?”
” Vladimir.”
I nod.
” But why? I mean he shot her once and why’s he trying to kill her again?”
” It’s obvious. He didn’t succeed in taking her life and he found out she’s still alive. He needs to complete the mission.” I sigh as we step out of the hospital.
Nick rolls down the window of my car and step out.
” Everything okay princess? How’s Alexa? Is she okay?” He asks.
I sigh and cross my arm and shake my head sideways. ” She’s missing.”
” The fuck! What you talking about?”
” We checked in , in her ward and she’s no where to be found. We saw a dead Russian man under her bed and he was overdosed.” I explain.
” Vladimir?” Nick asks. I nod.
” He’s out of the country , right?”
” Exactly my point. If someone tried to overdose her and he couldn’t. Then who took her body? She’s in coma right?” Nick asks and I nod again.
” Ariel , you’re not safe if she’s missing. Someone who took her body might come after you. You should skip work today.”
” And get fired ?”
” You’re Gray’s girlfriend , no one’s gonna fire you.”
I scoff and walk past him to get in the car. I slide into the passenger seat and shut the door.
” I’m gonna take the cab.” Piper says from outside.
” Get in Piper , Nick’s gonna drop you off.” I turn to look at her and motion for her to get in. She shrugs and get in the backseat.
Nick huffs and enters the driver’s seat and ignite the engine. I turn on the radio as he begins driving.
” So what are you planning to do Ariel?” Piper asks.
I glance briefly at her through the rearview mirror. I sigh and look back at the window.
” I swear I don’t know.” Maybe I just want my normal life back. Not some hard life where I can’t be free from psychotic shooters.
” I’m gonna talk to Gray about it. Manny’s gonna look through the ward for any suspects.” Nick utters.
” But how come they don’t have surveillance cameras around the hospital? For fuck’s sake , they are supposed to be watchful of their patients not the other way round.” Piper says.
” I’m scared.” I mutter to myself.
I give Piper’s direction to Nick and he stops in front of her apartment.
” Bye , Ariel. Becareful okay.”
” Sure. Regards to Brandon.” I smile at her and she nods.
She gets out of the car and shuts the door.
” I need to be at work today.” I say to Nick once we’re at the road.
” Ariel your cousin is missing. The least you could do is stay guarded.”
” So you’re saying I’m not allowed to go to work? Nick, I skipped work yesterday.”
” And you’re not gonna die if you skip today. I need to take you to Gray’s house. It’s my responsibility to see to your safety or I’m gonna pay with my life.”
” Fine. Can we go to her apartment ?”
” No. I need to drop you off first. I’m sorry Ariel.”
I chew on my bottom lip and look out the window. After several attempts of talking to Nick to take me home so I can I go to work , it was fruitless. He halts the car in the garage and we get out. God I’m back to his house again. I shut the car angrily and walk ahead of him to the house. I cross my arm and glance around the living room. Gray’s talking with Reid and Manny is at the corner with his hands in his slacks pockets.
Gray smokes his cigarette while Reid is smoking a pipe. Gray hasn’t noticed me yet. He’s busy talking about Cage’s arrival and I’m left to wonder who’s really this Cage.
” Boss.” Nick appears from beside me.
He turns around and his eyes falls on my form. I sigh and walk past them to his bedroom upstairs. I shut the door and fling my bag on the couch. I crouch next to it and turn the TV on.
” Tinkerbell.” I hear that all too familiar voice.
He sits next to me on the couch and kisses my temple.
” Gray, I skipped work today. ”
” I know. Nick told me.” He says, barely audible as he kisses my hair again.
” Alexa is sorta of missing. We visited the hospital and she’s not there except for the dead body of a Russian man whom I believe Vladimir must have sent him. Why’s this happening Gray? Will this ever end?”
” Come here.” He coo’s and bring me to sit on his lap.
” I don’t want you to worry okay. She will be fine. I already send Carl and Nick to check out what happened. Vladimir is out of the country. I wanted to give him a single message and the bitch is no where to be found. And about your internship , I’ll take care of that. Theo won’t say a word , i promise you.” I sigh and nod.
” Happy now?” He asks and caresses my hips. I chuckle and shake my head sideways.
” What if they come after me ?”
” Then they have to come through me first. I won’t hold back in hurting Vladimir this time.”
” Thanks , Jamal.”
” Don’t call me that.” He whispers and spank my hips. I giggle and thread my fingers through his hair. I raise my head to look at his face and his eyes.
” You’re supposed to be at work today.”
” I left afterwards. I wanted to make sure you’re okay.” He whispers and kisses my cheek.
” How was class?”
” Great.” I sigh and rest my head on his shoulders.
” How’s Kennedy?”
” I think she’ll be fine.”
” You think? Gray , you’re her uncle. It’s your responsibility to know if she’s fine.”
” God i know. I have a lot of things to handle lately.”
” Killing people?” I ask and sit up properly to look into his eyes.
” Part of it.”
” Must you kill people?” I ask and try to get of his lap. His hands grabs my waist and pulls me down.
” You should know me better by now. It’s part of my job.”
I roll my eyes and trail my fingers down his chest. His bullet wound is already healed and the stitches is also healed a bit leaving behind a pink scar that’s fading gradually.
” Are you hungry? Should I order McDonald’s?” He asks.
” Okay.” I kiss his cheek and kiss down to his jawline. His eyes flutter shut as I kiss down to his neck. I kiss the corner of his mouth and fully take his lips into mine. At first he didn’t kiss back but his eyes are shut. I nibble on his bottom lip and suck on before kissing his upper lip. He opens his eyes and kiss back. He takes charge of the kiss and next moment I’m already moaning in his mouth.
We stop kissing and we break from the kiss.
” Reid’s waiting downstairs.” I say.
He smirks and chuckles.
” I’ll tell Manny to order food.”
I nod and get off his lap. I fall on the bed and pick up the TV remote control. Gray walks to the edge of the bed and leans his hands at the edge hovering over my face.
” Once all this shit’s over , we’re gonna go to Hawaii.” He kisses my forehead and walk out of the room.
I smile and bite my lip nervously. When this is over. So when will this be over? Cause I’m already fed up.
••••
Later in the evening , I drive back to my apartment. Or let’s say Gray actually drive me to my apartment in my car. Nick pull up behind us so he would drive Gray back to his house. He leans closer to me and tuck my loose hair behind my ear. We stare at each other for seconds and no one’s willing to break the silence.
” I think we should teach you how to shoot a gun. Or maybe how to punch.” He smirks and runs his thumb pad on my lips.
” I can punch.” I defend myself.
” You sure about that?” He asks , calmly still rubbing his thumb on my bottom lip. His thumb graze against my teeth and he smirks. Just his little attempt automatically turns me on. His eyes watches me carefully and we’re so close.
I gently bite his thumb and licks it. His gaze move from my eyes to my lip and I can tell he’s getting hard.
” Not the time Gray.” I bite his thumb and take it out of my mouth.
” Fuck.” He cusses and sit properly , leaning his head against the car seat.
” I dont want you to go. Spend the night with me.” He says.
” You know I can’t. I’ve been pretty occupied lately. I need to focus on school. I have like three school work I haven’t done yet. I will stay the weekend.” I kiss his cheek and poke it.
He chuckles and nod.
” Goodnight.”
He smiles and cups my cheek to kiss me. I run my fingers down his hair to his nape as we kiss. He bites my bottom lip and smirks between his devilish bite.
” Dream about me ?”
” Yes , daddy.” I wink at him as we step out of the car. Great , my bottom lip hurts a bit.
He throws my car key at me and I catch it. That wasn’t easy though. He pulls me to give me a hug and kiss my hair. We pull away from the hug and I turn to walk into my apartment building. I turn around and his other car that Nick’s driving already drove out. I take the elevator to my floor and step out. I unlock the door and open it. I shut it and the living room is a bit dark except for the TV light. I walk to the living room and see Leslie sitting next to a guy on our couch opposite the TV. They are watching a movie.
She jolts in shock when she sees me. The guy adjusts the blanket over his groin and that’s when I noticed it’s her ex boyfriend , Hayden. She was giving him a handjob obviously. I chuckle and shake my head sideways as I walk down the hallway to my room. I drop my bag on the chair of my dresser and undress my self to take a shower. After taking my bath , I arrange the few books I’ll need at school tomorrow on my nightstand as I lay down to sleep.
~~~~~~
My alarm woke me up the following morning. I hit the snooze button and brush my teeth. I have class in less than a hour and I’m really exhausted. Alexa is missing and some freak holes are after my life. This isn’t how I planned college. I brush my teeth and go to the kitchen to prepare toast , since it’s the easiest thing to make as breakfast. The doorbell rings and I stalk to the door.
Leslie is still sleeping or probably she must have gone out. Who must that be? I twist the doorknob and open the door only to see who I didn’t expect to see. She smiles at me and caresses her puppy’s fur. I look down at her and she’s fine , even dressed in her savage attire and ready for school.
” Alexa ?”
” Hi, cousin.”
Chapter 54
“Alexa!” I squeak surprisingly and pull her into a bear hug.
She giggles and hug me with one hand while the other holds Blue firmly.
” Jesus.” I smile and shut the door.
” Sup girl! You look pretty. Damn , when last did I saw you?” Alexa asks sitting on the couch.
” Last week.” I sigh and sit next to her to observe her.
” How are you? What happened? We checked on you yesterday at the hospital and then boom , you’re gone except for a dead man underneath your bed.” I explain.
She exhales sharply and drops Blue on the floor.
” Vladimir sent someone to kill me after he discovered I made it. I woke up from coma yesterday and I saw him , he wanted to inject me to death and make it look like an overdose.” She shrugs her shoulders and rub her palms down her hair.
” So what happened?”
She smirks and cocks her brows.” You know I’m a good fighter. I punched him and stabbed his eyes with the needle. And lastly inject him with the stupid drug.”
” Damn , I thought i lost you again.” I pull her into a hug and sniffle her hair.
” So where did you go from there?”
” I went home. Told my parents that I got shot at a club. It was a mistake and they treated me. I still feel weak though. Just decide to come back to school to see how you’re faring. How’s Piper and Brandon?” She asks and stands on her feet.
” They are fine. You know we have school today.” I say and follow her behind. Blue already lay close to the couch.
“Yeah , I know. I would have love to come to school.”
” You have to. You’ve skipped class for long you know.” I smile at her and sit on the island stool.
” Where’s Leslie?” Alexa asks , opening the fridge to collect a bottle water.
” Must be sleeping or maybe she might be out.”
” It’s morning. She should be at home.” Alexa says as she drinks the water.
” So what’s gonna happen now? Why where you shot?”
She breathes out and closes the cap of the bottle water before sitting on the countertop.
” Vladimir wanted you as bait. He asked me to lure you to come see him so that Gray would come for you. I refused and I was shot. Thankfully , I’m alive. I’m special.” She grins and pours cereal on a bowl. She add milk and stir with a spoon. I forgot I’m supposed to be getting ready for school and I’m hungry.
” What if he comes back?” I ask putting two slices of bread inside the toaster.
” He won’t. I believe if he comes after you again there will be a gun fight between Vladimir and Gray. He would never want that because of a bullshit business.”
” My point is why doesn’t he want money?” I ask. Then I remembered Gray said Vladimir wants me as possession.
” You don’t understand. What ever thing they did doesn’t really need money as payback. Vladimir want something that’s gonna hurt Gray and then he discovered Gray likes you a lot.”
” So what if I wasn’t available? Like , what if Gray doesn’t like me?”
” Then he would have gone for Kennedy.” Alexa replies. My heart beat stop for a moment before beating again. So they know he’s got a niece.
The toaster pop up my toast and I take it out. I make scrambled eggs and make tea. I stare at my food contemplating.
” Is this ever gonna end?”
” Maybe it will. You shouldn’t get worked up. Vladimir won’t come after you anytime soon.”
” You know , i followed Gray to his warehouse club the other day.”
” What? You’ve been there? That place is expensive. I went there twice and Jesus it’s fuckin meant for wealthy people.” Alexa squeaks. I roll my eyes and shove the content of my fork inside my mouth.
” Can you let me finish?”
” Yeah , I’m sorry.” She waves her spoon and stuff her mouth with cereal.
” Thank you. I saw this guy at the club. He was so weird and his name was Cage.”
” Cage? Cage Eduardo?”
” Do you know everyone? Like literally every hot guy?”
” Shut up. He’s a mobster so basically he’s fuckin popular and cute.”
” Wait a mobster? Did you sleep with him?”
” Bitch , seriously.” She rolls her eyes.” I didn’t. I’ve seen him. And yes , he’s a mobster. Son of a Mafia boss in Italy. Father owns a Cartel.”
” What!”
” What? You should get used to this type of stuff sooner. He’s cute. I bet he picked an interest in you?”
” I don’t know. He tried to flirt with me. Gray almost punched him but he hold back and ordered him out of his club. My problem is , why’s Gray involved with so many illegal people?”
Alexa looks at me and chuckles. ” You think too much sweetheart. You know Gray’s not a bad person. And lastly this is New York , a lot of shit happens. I mean it’s filled with shitty people.”
I nod and quietly eat my meal.” I’m glad that you’re back. I can’t ever imagine what’s my life gonna taste like if you leave.”
” So literally you’re telling me you have a crush on me?” Alexa jokes.
I laugh and smirk. I’ve missed her so much and I’m glad she’s back.
***
With Blue on Alexa’s lap, we drive to school after breakfast and Alexa won’t stop singing to the song playing from the radio. I park my car at school’s lot and we step out of my car. Attention. Most students who were chattering at school’s lot turn to look at us. They still aren’t used to the fact that I’m driving a Ferrari.
I shut the door as Alexa flip her hair stylishly as we walk into school. Who cares to look , look as we walk past students.
” You can’t believe I brought no books.” Alexa mutters loudly for me to hear.
I chuckle and shake my head at her.
” Oh my God. Is that Alexa?” Brandon squeals attracting other students on the hallway.
I smile and roll my eyes as Brandon and Piper hug her. She winces a bit as they pull from her.
” I’m sorry.” They flinches and pouts. Alexa shrugs and smiles.
” It’s fine guys. Let’s get out of here.” We laugh and walk to our first class.
•••••
We settle on our usual booth at Sands & winches. Piper and I sit across from Brandon and Alexa. Jay , a real cute nerdy waiter walk to our booth to take our orders. I think he has a huge crush on Alexa. He takes our orders and leaves.
” Haven’t you noticed the way Jay looks at you?” Brandon starts a conversation and points his chin to Alexa who’s caressing Blue. She huffs and roll her eyes.
” I don’t do nerds.” Alexa grimaces.
” Talking of nerds , Piper took Jamie’s Virginity.” I say and grin.
” What the fuck. Bitch.” Alexa smirks at Piper and she blushes.
” Give me details now.” Alexa winks at Piper. Brandon and I stares at each other and chuckle.
” Jeez. He was shy when I wanted to give him a BJ. Then later he confessed he had never slept with any girl before and he was nervous…”
I roll my eyes and look around the restaurant.
” Fuck , it was great. Jamie is a mega piece even if he’s a nerd.” Piper ends her story.
” So you’re in love?” Alexa asks. I reach to take Blue from her and she willingly give her to me.
” No , but I really like Jamie. There’s a family dinner at his family house on Thursday and I’m coming with him.”
” No way.”
” I don’t have a choice. You guys know how I hate family bullshit. I don’t want him to feel bad.” Piper says and shrugs.
” So how are you Alexa ?” Brandon asks. ” What happened? I heard that you went missing yesterday.”
” Yeah.” Alexa sighs as the waiter walks in and place our items on the table. He shoots a warm smile to Alexa before leaving. I bet Alexa didn’t notice that.
Alexa go on explaining to them how that Russian man tried to kill her by injecting her. I slurp my Sprite noisely and listen.
” Fuck. What’s wrong with this Vladimir guy?” Piper mutters as she eats her Pizza.
” What if he comes back?” Brandon ask.
” He won’t.” Alexa shrugs keeping Gray out of it and I was grateful. They really don’t know I’m the reason she was shot. She skipped that part. My phone buzz and I take it out of my bag. I swipe the screen and see it’s a message from Gray. After that conversation with Freddie in Molly’s , he hasn’t texted me or even call. Most times I wonder what Gray must have threatened him about.
FROM GRAY; Drop by at my place?
I chuckle. That’s certainly not a question it’s an order.
” What you smiling at?” Piper who sits next to me snatches my phone from my hand. I tried to take it back but Brandon swats my hand away. I scrunch my nose and groan.
” Drop by at my place? Damn girl. This is seducing. He misses you.” Piper says and give me back my phone.
” Shit! She’s fuckin lucky. It feels like you’re dating Zayn Malik. Fuck!” Alexa chuckles.
I laugh and roll my eyes. I type on my keypad to reply his text.
TO GRAY; I’ll think about it. Later.
I drop my phone on the table and feast on my meal. My phone buzzes again. I bite my lip and look at the guys whose eyes are already pointing to mine with their crazy smirk.
” Go on. Reply it , don’t keep him waiting.” They say.
I sigh and look at the text.
FROM GRAY; I have a surprise for you. And also get a dress , we’re going out.
I roll my eyes and sit my phone back.
” What did he say?” They asks. Alexa already leans her elbows on the booth. They are all grinning at me.
” He’s taking me out. So i should get a dress.”
” Fuck. I bet it’s an expensive club or probably a restaurant. You should get pregnant already.” Alexa points out.
” Seriously , no way. Why would you say that?” I laugh.
” Because he is in love with you. And getting a baby for him is gonna be awesome.” Brandon answers and Piper nods.
I huff and shake my head sideways. ” I also need to be at work. He made me skip work for two whole days. I’m just wondering what’s gonna be Theo’s reaction.”
” He won’t say shit. I mean your boyfriend is Gray Carter. He’s just Theodore Sterling. Some random ass nigga.” Alexa scoffs and sips her latte.
” Fact.”
” And also , since i just got back from hell..”
” Hell?” Brandon stops Alexa.
” Yeah , hell. That place is ugly as fuck. You know I thought I was gonna die so as a thank you to God, I’m thinking about that Florida slash Miami weekend vacation.” She says.
” Damn. That’s a hit.” I mutter.
” You know I ain’t saying no. I’m coming.” Piper says.
” Me too. Sup Ariel?” Brandon asks. Of course I wanna come. But what if Gray doesn’t me wants? Damnit.
” I’m coming.” I say and they all squeal.
” That’s the spirit.” Alexa giggles.
Leslie walks in with Hazel. They didn’t look at our booth and maybe they didn’t notice us. They walk to the counter and Leslie stops. She sees something. We follow her eyes and it’s her boyfriend , Hayden. Same dude she was giving a hand job in our apartment yesterday. How come I didn’t notice him in here.
” Fuck. Shit’s about to go down.” The guys mutters.
She walks to his booth with Hazel by her side. I mean she just committed an abortion , doesn’t she needs to rest. Hayden is with Madison and her special goth best friend. Madison sits close to Hayden and without being told they look like they are dating.
” Hayden.” Leslie calls his name. He looks startled. Madison , her goth friend , Hayden and his friend that sits close to Madison’s goth friend all turn to look at Leslie and Hazel.
” Damn , this will obviously hit thousands of views on Snapchat.” Alexa giggles. I turn to look at her and she’s recording the scene.
” Hi, Leslie.” Hayden replies , not even looking concerned that his girlfriend just saw him with another girl. Madison to be precise.
” Madison, what are you doing with my boyfriend?” Leslie asks.
” Boyfriend?” Madison chuckles including her friend.
” Hey, babe, please tell her whose boyfriend are you.” Madison says to Hayden as she caresses his hair.
” You of course.” Hayden replies as he kisses Madison.
Leslie paled out. I didn’t notice other customers from their booths are already watching. Madison smirks and looks down at Leslie who’s already feeling dejected.
” You’re a looser bitch. Why don’t you get your lame ass and take your slutty best friend with you.” Madison scowls.
” Get out bitches.” Her goth friend adds.
Alexa laughs loudly and that made others turn to look at Alexa who hasn’t stop laughing.
” Fuck…” She squeaks and continues laughing. Crazy part , Brandon , Piper and few others join in the laughter. Now i feel sorry for her.
” Hey everyone , look , Leslie is standing in the way of love.” Alexa squeaks and everyone burst into laughter Including Madison and Hayden. Oh God.
Leslie sniffles as she burst into tears. She facepalms herself and runs out of the restaurant. Now i wish I ran after her to console her. That hurts.
Chapter 55
I stand up from my chair and rush after Leslie.
” Ariel.” Alexa calls out but i ignore them.
” Leslie.” I call out her name once I’m outside the restaurant.
She stops walking down the sidewalk with Hazel. She turns to look at me and crosses her arms. I stalk towards her and sigh. Her mascara already smudge her eyes and she looks pale. I take a step forward and stuff my hands in my back pockets.
” I’m really sorry about what happened.” I say.
She raises her brows and laughs. Hazel chuckles and glares at me.
” Stop acting like I’m the cause of whatever thing that happened back there. I wanted to make sure you’re okay.”
” Why should you care?” Leslie asks.
” Maybe because we’re sisters and we should always look out for each other.”
” I don’t fuckin care about you. I mean you’re this little tiny girl who’s got popular and almighty Gray wrapped around her fingers. And you have a fuckin Ferrari too. Don’t act like you care about me , you don’t fuckin care about anyone.”
” Oh yeah really? You think if I don’t care about you I won’t be out there telling Mom you got pregnant for Reid? Reid , Leslie. Gray Carter’s closest friend. And then you secretly abort it because what?”
” Fuck you, bitch. Don’t think you’re better than me. You’re still a slut who got lucky for having to sleep with Gray.”
” Really? Why are you hard on yourself? Why are you even jealous of me? You’ve always wanted everything I have and thankfully you’ve got it. Our parents liked you more than me and hopefully they listen to your bullshit.” I scoff and turn to walk away from her. I stop and turn to look at her. She’s still standing there and Hazel is whispering something to her.
” And also, I’m glad Hayden dumped your cheap ass.” I say and leave. I walk into sands and winches and sit down on our booth. I’m so angry right now and I regretted ever going after her.
” You’re okay?” They asks.
I nod and sip my drink.
” She’s annoying. I wanted to be sure she will be fine and then she just blow out on me. What an ass.” I groan and bite my lip.
” You shouldn’t have followed her. You and I know Leslie is a lunatic.” Alexa scoffs and rolls her eyes.
” Damn you really uploaded this on Snapchat.” Brandon mutters and turn his phone to face us.
” Alexa?” I scowl at her. She winks and stuff her mouth with tacos.
” Woah. A lot of views. Leslie standing in the way of love.” Piper smirks and laughs.
I shake my head and scoff. We finish our meal and leave the restaurant. I attend my last class and drive home with Alexa. We get out of my car and walk into the building. She’ll be staying at my apartment for the day because of whatever thing that happened. I’m also driving her to the hospital to change her bandage and make sure the gun shot wound Is well treated.
” I can’t believe Hayden will leave me for that ugly brunette.” Leslie cowers as we walk in.
Alexa slumps on the couch and drops Blue on the floor.
” You’re okay , Leslie?” Alexa asks with her taunting smirk.
Leslie doesn’t look okay. She looks like she’s been crying. Her knees her pull up to her chest with her arms around her knees.
” Why don’t you mind your business.” Leslie says through gritted teeth.
” Damn , you’re already famous on Snapchat.”
” You uploaded that?” Hazel asks.
” Yeah. You have issues with that?” Alexa asks.
” You’re so annoying. I mean why would you do that?”
” I don’t know. Maybe I just thought it’s a nice idea to let the world laugh at you.” Alexa says calmly. She points at Leslie and burst into squeals of laughter. This is so embarrassing.
” Why are you here in the first place?” Leslie asks.
” Fuck you.” Alexa spits and pick up the TV remote. She crosses her legs and tune the television.
I sigh and go to my room. I’m really exhausted right now and what I want is a good sleep and maybe a massage. I quickly shower and clean myself off the water. I open my closet and decide against skirt and dress. I put on a black flay dress with sleeves and white collar. It drops on top of my knees as I step inside my flats. I brush my hair and curl it. I stare at my reflection and sigh. I comb the curls and it turns to waves. I smile at my reflection and pick up my bag. I walk back to the living room and stop in my track. Alexa is exchanging words with Leslie.
” Jesus , Alexa. Let’s get out of here.” I grab Alexa’s elbow and drag her out of the apartment.
She breathes in once we step inside the elevator and brush her black hair off her face.
” What was that all about ?” I ask.
” She’s a hoe.” Alexa replies and scoffs.
” She’s so fuckin lucky. If not for this stupid bullet wound , I would have beat her up so bad.” She sighs.
Blue whimpers on the floor. I bent down and pick her up as I caress her.
“I’m really sorry about that.” I say. She nods and tucks her loose strands behind her ear. We walk out of the elevator and slide into my car.
I drop her off at the hospital and she ask me to leave that she’ll be fine and she’ll hail a cab. I give her Blue and leave. I ignite the engine and start driving. 10 minutes later , I arrive at Sterling Corp. Now I’m nervous. What am I supposed to tell him ? I remember his coffee and drive back to the Cafe to get it. Thank God , there’s no que. I paid for his espresso and walk back to my car.
I pull my car close to other cars and step out. I rush into the building and greet the lady at the reception. She reply as I walk past her. Most workers stare at me for some awkward reasons but I’m sure it’s because of my outfit.
” Hey , there.” The manager greets as she stands in front of me.
” Hi. Good afternoon.”
She smiles weirdly and nods.
” I like your dress. Where did you get it?” She asks.
” At the store.”
” What store?” I roll my eyes at her ridiculous question as i walk past her.
“Sleeping with Gray Carter shouldn’t make you feel special. You’re still a slut.” I hear the manager mutters.
I bite my tongue and breathe in. I’m not gonna reply that. I take the elevator and press Theo’s floor button. I lean against the wall and wait till it ascend. It stops and the doors slides open. I drop my bag on my desk and knock on his door.
” Who’s there? Whatever just come in.” He says from inside.
I open the door slowly and walk inside. I shut the door and turn to face him. He has a visitor and they seems to notice my presence cause they stop talking. Both men turns around as I stare at Freddie. What’s he doing here?
” Miss Peterson.” Theo looks down at me. I gulp and shift my gaze to Freddie who won’t stop looking at me.
” I’m sorry.” That’s the first word that escape from my mouth.
” Wait outside.” Theo says and dismisses me. I nod and drop the coffee on his desk.
I give Freddie one last look before leaving. I take a deep breath and relax on my chair. I switch on my system and I’m guilty that I haven’t used it for ages. Not too long Freddie walks out with his hands inside his pants pocket. He walks to my desk and leans on it.
” Hi.”
” Freddie. Hey.”
” I never knew you worked here.” He says and look down at my face.
” Oh , I’m actually an intern.”
” That’s great. Why Sterling? Why not Summit?”
I shrug. I can’t just tell him my reasons.
” It’s been so long. You look different, beautiful actually.”
I nod and give him a fake smile.
” Thank you.” I stand up to go to Theo’s office.
” Your boyfriend warned me to stay away from you. I missed you though.” He says.
I sigh and bite my lip. Yeah maybe I missed him too. The old him. The him that will never take advantage of me because he liked me and couldn’t tell me he liked me.
” Later , Freddie.” I flash him a tight lip smile and knock on Theo’s office door.
Freddie sighs deeply and walk to the elevator. I open the door and walk into Theo’s office.
” Your boyfriend told me why you skipped two days.”
” I’m really sorry. It was an emergency.”
” Sex emergency?” He smirks and furrows his brows.
I look everywhere but him.
” Why are you dressed like that?” What’s wrong with my outfit? God , not again.
” Is it that bad?”
” You look hot.” He compliments. I mentally roll my eyes and stand still.
” You will have to work past your normal closing time.” He motions his head to his shelves.
” Take the files at the top , you know what to do with that. And also order me McDonald’s.” He says. I nod and walk to the shelf stack with files.
I carry the top files from the top shelf and it’s a lot. I groan and flash him a fake smile before leaving. I order the McDonald’s and begin working. It took it about 30 minutes before it arrive. I take the delivery and take it to his office. The day rolls by and I’m already done. I pick up my bag and inform Theo that I’m leaving. He asks me to get him coffee before leaving. I groan and shut his door before rushing to the elevator. Gray already filled my phone with missed calls including Alexa.
I shove my phone out and dial Alexa’s number. She pick up at the second ring.
” Ariel.” She drawls.
” Are you okay? How are you feeling? Did the doctor check the wound?” I ask walking down the sidewalk to the Cafe.
” I’m fine. Leslie had been sulking like forever.” She chuckles.
” Yeah , she just got her heart broken and it’s all over the internet.” I say sarcastically and walk into the Cafe.
” Where are you?” Alexa asks.
” In a Cafe , to buy coffee for Theodore.”
” Aww. Is he asking you out already?”
” Really Alexa.” I laugh. Theodore always checked me out and that’s obvious but ask me out , I bet he won’t dare.”
The waiter gives me my coffee and i paid. I walk out of the Cafe and hurry back to the company.
” There’s nothing wrong with that. You’re gonna leave for Gray’s right?” She asks.
” Yeah. You know he wants me to come over.”
” Ooh. I can already hear you moaning his name.” She muses on the phone and I’m already blushing.” Yes Gray , that spot Gray…” she fake moans on the phone.
” Alexa , please stop.” I bite my lip and walk faster to take the elevator. I can’t believe I had to imagine us making out.
She laughs on the phone.” Whatever. Enjoy yourself okay. He’s all yours , do to him whatever you want.”
” Yes, mother.” I roll my eyes and press the top floor button on the elevator.
” Take care , will you?”
” Sure.” I smile and hang up.
I knock gently on Theo’s door and he orders me in. I walk in and drop his coffee on the table. He leans back on his chair and eyes my form.
” I’m just gonna leave sir.”
” Sure.” He answers softly and watch me walk out of his office. He’s always a pervert. I quickly rush inside my car and drive out of the lot.
I stop by at the store to buy a dress. My phone buzzes in my bag and it’s a text message from Gray. Telling me he’s waiting for me and he misses me. I drop a quick text , telling him I’m close as I shut the door. I walk into the store and the salesgirl welcomes me. I look through her closets and mannequins. I settle for a silver colored strap dress with glitters and it’s mid thigh too. It has a choker too. I bought a strapless glass stilettos and pay. I decide to buy a new set of bikinis since Alexa wants us to visit Miami. I need to tell Gray about it. I bought three different colors of bikinis and paid before leaving. I fasten my seatbelt and drive out of the store.
I halt my car in the garage and step out of it. I walk into the living room and everywhere looks quiet as usual. Manny walks out of the kitchen and smile slightly at me.
” Where’s Gray?” I ask Manny.
” Rush out with Reid. He’s gonna be back soon.” I nod and climb up the stairs. I walk into his bedroom and keep the items i bought in his closet.
I look around his room and walk to the balcony. I lean on the rails and look at the swimming pool. It’s bright blue waters sparkles and it’s inviting. Maybe I can just take a swim. I walk back to his room and change into a yellow bikini. The clothing is so tiny and it fits perfectly. I pick up a blue towel and rush down the stairs. Manny look up from his phone and he’s checking me out.
I sit on the deck and slowly get inside the water. I shut my eyes and duck under the water. The water is a bit warm and it soothes my skin. I bring my head out of the water and sweep my hand through my hair. I swim from one edge to the other and dive beneath the water. I stay there for minutes till I heard voices. I swim to the top and bring my head out of the water.
Gray stands next to Reid and they stand afar from the pool. Not that far though but it isn’t close either. He is always hot in every simple clothing. He wears a red colored hoodie and black Nike sweatpants. A cigarette dangles between his lips as he stares at me while Reid talks. His hands are tuck deep in his pockets as he takes out one hand to puff out the smoke.
I smile at him as Reid turns to look at me. Reid looks at me and bites his bottom lip. His eyes are dark and different this time from the eyes I’ve come to get used to. I get off the water and wring out water from my hair. They talk some more and both men are always staring at me. Reid sighs and looks down at my body through the tiny little bikini that I’m wearing. I can’t believe he is checking me out.
Gray say something to Reid and he shrugs. He hands his half cigarette to Reid as he puffs out the smoke. Gray looks at Reid and then tells him something. They are too far from me and I can’t hear a thing. It sound as if they are murmuring. Reid looks at me one last time before walking away. Gray walks slowly to the deck with his hands in his pockets. He squats beside me and turns to look at me. Great! He smells like who just passed through hell.
” What are you wearing?” I raise my brows and smirk at him , wiggling my feet inside the water.
” Don’t like it?” I smirk and wink, and stylishly tuck my damp hair beside my ear.
” Don’t try to seduce me.” He says calmly.” Come on. Let’s get inside.” He stands up and shove his hands in his hoodie pockets.
” I’m not yet tired.” I dive back into the water and swim to the middle.
” Tinkerbell , you’ll get cold.”
” Why don’t you get in with me?” I ask.
” Is that why you decide to wear that. That’s so tiny and too exposed.” He whines.
” I thought you like exposed.” I taunt him.
He leans closer to the deck and squat. ” Exposed for only my eyes. Now come on , let’s go. You’re going out with me tonight.”
” Is it a club ?” I ask.
” It’s a surprise.”
” Will you tell me?” I pout and push my hair to the side.
” Swim closer.”
I smirk. I know he’s trying to play naughty and I like it. I swim to the deck and get in between his legs. He grabs my waist and pulls me out of the water.
” Jamal.” I squeal. He ignores my ranting and tosses me on his shoulder.
” Shit…” he groans when he touches my butt. The bikini bottom covers the up of my butt while the bottom is exposed.
” Why did you wear this?” He groans as he walks into the house.
” Where did you go with Reid?”
” We went to handle business.” He simply states. I roll my eyes as he walks into the living room. Reid is the first person I see, before Nick and Manny and two other weirdos that work for Gray. I don’t even know their names. I’m still on his shoulders as he takes the stairs.
” Did you see their eyes? They were staring at you. Checking you out.” He whines and shuts the door to his bedroom.
” Gray, it’s just a bikini and girls wear this at the beach.” He drops me on the floor with his hands around my waist.
” You are wet.” He smirks and trace his hand down my spine to my waist and then he grabs my butt. My hands flatten on his chest and I bite my lip.
” Is it one of your clubs ?”
” No. Just a random club. I’m meeting someone and I want you to come so i won’t get bored.” He leans down a bit to kiss me. I stand on my toes and wrap my hands around his neck to kiss back.
He grabs my thighs and wrap my legs around his waist as we kiss. Gray walks me to his table and sit me on it. He stands between my legs and kisses down my neck. I moan as he adores my neck with his lips. He kisses down my collarbone and then in between my breasts.
” Gray.” Reid’s voice calls from outside with a knock.
He groans in between the kiss and bites my bottom lip. He gives me one last kiss and walk to his door to answer Reid.
” Busy?” I hear Reid’s voice from the door.
” Maybe. Called him?”
” Yeah. We gotta leave.” Reid says.
Gray groans and turns to look at me. I’m still sitting on his table with my bikinis.
” Hold on a minute.” He walks back to me and wraps his hands around my waist. His head nuzzles my neck and he smirks in between my neck.
” I’ll be back. Need to settle business with someone.”
” And you’re going with Reid?”
He moves his head back to look into my eyes. ” Yeah. And I won’t be long. We’ll skip the party for tomorrow , I’m really sorry.” He kisses my forehead and bites my earlobe.
” What’s my surprise?”
He smiles and shove out a necklace from his hoodie pockets. It’s a pendant.
” I saw it yesterday and I liked it. Thought you might like it.” He says and wear me the necklace
I hold the pendant and smile. It’s a gold pendant and without doubts this is gonna be expensive.
” Thanks Jamal.” I kiss his cheek.
He bites his lips and pinch my hip. I swat him and chuckle.
” It’s beautiful. Thank you.” I say and smile.
” I’m glad you like it. You’re just gonna change into something less sexy and wait for me. I won’t stay long.” He says.
I nod and pout.
” Don’t look at me like that or, I’ll bend you on this desk and take you right here.” He whispers and runs his forefinger down my spine.
” That won’t be a bad idea.” I smirk and rub my palm down his chest.
He leans closer and whisper.” Stay awake for me tonight , will you?” He kisses down my neck and pinches my hip again.
I suck in a deep breath and nod.
” That’s a good girl.” He kisses my cheek one last time and turns to leave.
” Be careful.” I tell him as he leaves the room.
I look down at the pendant and hold it. I hop out of the table and saunter to the bathroom to take a shower. I change into his t-shirt and oversized sweatpants before going down the stairs to prepare dinner in the kitchen. After making dinner, I go back to his bedroom and text the guys till I fall asleep.
.
••••
I hurriedly prepare for work since I don’t have classes today. Gray is still not yet back. I microwave the remaining of yesterday’s dinner after Nick ate some. I got dressed on my previous clothes and drive to my apartment. I was a bit angry. I mean he told me he was gonna come home and he’s not yet back. His phone number isn’t going through and it’s annoying.
I quickly take the elevator once I arrive in my apartment. I shut the door and go straight to my room , Alexa is not around. I change my dress and rush out of the house. I drive straight to Sterling Corp and park my car. Today will definitely be stressful for me. Mom called that she missed us and she wants us to come visit. Deep down, I don’t feel like going but i have to. I round up work for the day and go back to the apartment. Gray hasn’t called or even reply my texts.
***
.
Leslie and I help my mom in the kitchen as we take the food to the dinning table. Leslie has been shooting me unending glares and I don’t even care about her right now. We sit down to eat after dad said a prayer.
” Ariel , who owns the Ferrari you brought?” Mom asks.
” Mine.”
” Yours?” Dad asks and looks at me.
” It’s mine.” I say and look around the dining room. Leslie smirks and snarls at me.
” Who bought you a Ferrari? That’s a lot of grand Ariel and you’re in college. You can’t afford a Ferrari.” Mom says.
” Gray bought it. You’re okay now?”
” Gray bought you a Ferrari? Your mom and I don’t even have a Ferrari.”
” That’s because you chose not to have one.” I sigh and roll my eyes. This conversation is disgusting.
” I thought you guys are done. I mean we advised you to focus on school and get a better man and you still had to date Gray? You’re aware of what you’re dealing with right? If you get pregnant before marriage, you’ll have to deal with it alone. Because i and your father won’t have nothing to do with whatever thing you decide to bring. I mean it Ariel and that goes for you Leslie. I won’t tolerate fornication in our family , not even a stupid pregnancy with or without the father.”
What on Earth am I really doing here in the first place. First of all, Gray didn’t come home last night , and he’s not picking my calls or replying to my texts. And now my mother. It’s really funny they didn’t find out about Leslie’s pregnancy and abortion. I’m too annoyingly nice.
“So how’s school?” Dad asks diverting from mother’s rantings. I didn’t reply , not sure of who he’s talking to.
” School’s great.” Leslie replies.
” What about you Ariel?” Dad asks.
” Fine.” I reply flatly.
” Of course it’s fine , you’re sleeping with Gray Carter.” Leslie hisses.
I drop my fork and turn to look at her. ” And what’s that supposed to mean?”
She chuckles.” Seriously , Ariel. Why can’t you tell our dear parents you got pregnant for Gray Carter and you aborted it because he told you he never liked you and he’s just using you for sex.”
” What!”