Ch. 6..10: Until I Met You Chapter 6-10
Chapter 6
“What did you do to me ?” I sob silently.
His cold stare is not leaving me and I’m about to freeze up. How can I be so stupid to drink that cocktail whatever.
” What did you do? Why am I wearing your clothes?” I ask. I’m standing in front of him and he barely looks away.
” I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
” What do you mean? Why would I wake up in your bed dressed in your clothes? How could you touch me?”
” What?” He smirks.
” Are you trying to tell me you won’t be able to know if someone touched you?” He asks and that rings a bell.
” Wait, you thought I took advantage of you?” He asks me after I’ve stayed quiet.
” Why would I do that?” He blinks his eyes and crosses his arms. I can’t help but look at his intimidating self in front of me. He makes me speechless and that’s new.
” I thought…”
” You thought I had sex with you?”
” I’m in your room and wearing your clothes. What am I supposed to think?” I sniffle. I never knew I was crying earlier.
He scoffs.” You’re too naive.”
He turns to leave but I stop him.
” Who changed my clothes?”
” I did. What? You’re shy?” Oh no , this can’t be happening to me again.
” Jesus. My house help did that. She changed your clothes and she’s forty years old.” I was relieved after he said that. He turned his back and left the room.
By the way, where’s my dress? I ponder and rush to get my phone. 20 missed calls. Dad , mom , Leslie and Alexa. Where was I when my phone was ringing? I’ve never spent the night out before and I’m sure they won’t spare me. I deserve it in the first place. I should have stayed at home , I won’t end up drinking that cock demon.
A knock startles me. I turn around and a lady greets me. Probably that stranger’s maid.
” You’re awake. You need to shower and wear this before eating breakfast.” What? This is not even my dress and not my house. It’s 10: am and I’m not at home yet.
” Um… where’s my dress?”
” Master Carter asked me to get rid of it.”
” Carter?”
” That’s his last name.”
” What’s his name then?” I ask, forgetting the fact that this master Carter just got rid of my dress.
” Gray.”
” Thanks.” She drops the black lace dress on the bed and turns to leave
“There’s a pill inside that drawer and it will help with your hangover.” She smiles and shuts the door.
I glance at the dress and it’s far better than Alexa’s choice of clothing. It has sleeves not like last night’s dress with a brazier’s strap.
I enter the bathroom and it’s huge compared to mine. Without being told , he’s rich. I scrub my body with the body wash and let the warm water rinse myself. I dried my skin and got dressed. Thank God my underwear is still intact. I put on the dress and carry my bag walking out of this room. I have a lot of explaining to do once I get home. I know I’ll be grounded, that’s for sure .
I climb down the spiral staircase and step on the last one. The view was amazing. The walls are originally made of translucent glass and you can see the large swimming pool outside. I stare at every piece of furniture and I know this isn’t just a dime. My eyes land on Gray’s shirtless self smoking. Is he aware of lung cancer , maybe he’s not really scared of death.
” Gray.” I called out. His back tensed when I called out his name. He exhales the smoke out of his nostrils before turning to look at me.
He raises his eyebrows at me indicating what? What type of man is this?
” I’m leaving.”
” I noticed. You’re not eating?”
” I’m fine. Thanks.” I reply standing in front of him.
” What did you do to my dress?” I ask, feeling really uncomfortable inhaling his smoke. I’m feeling sick.
” Got rid of it. Don’t ever dress like that. You look like a slut.” I gulp. Why does he care about how I look? Looking at his house and cars , it’s obvious the type of ladies he would like are slutty models with expensive hair extensions and wigs.
” Thanks.” I sigh and turn to leave.
I walked out of his building and noticed two guys in suits standing outside with their cold stares. I quickly look away and hurry out of this millions called a house. The cab ride was terrible because I was thinking on what to tell Mom and yes dad. I step on our front porch and twist the doorknob. Here begins my headache . I didn’t even take my medications last night.
” Where are you coming from? Your boyfriend right?” Mom asks, standing a few feet from me with her arms tightly crossed.
” Is she back? That rebel of a daughter.” I heard dad’s voice from the kitchen. Leslie looks at me and I really don’t know what to say.
” I…”
” Go on. Start lying.”
What am I supposed to say? I went to a club with Leslie and Alexa and I followed someone home because I was drunk. They will definitely call me a whore.
” I went out with…” I point to Leslie who widens her eyes at me.
” Leslie?” Dad asks, shooting daggers at me. I gulp and fiddle both my fingers.
” Did she spend the night in a man’s house?”
” It’s not what you think. I got lost cause I couldn’t find Alexa and Leslie. I saw someone who decided to give me a lift but I don’t know the address.” I told almost half the truth. I can’t say I was drunk. I’m gonna be dead.
” You got lost?” Mom asks, walking slowly to where I’m standing. I’ve not left the door post since I walked in.
” I’m telling the truth.”
” What truth? Leslie went down the street to meet some church friends , she returned last night at 9:pm.” What? I look at Leslie but she can’t look me in the eyes because of guilt. How could she do that?
” Ariel, where are you coming from?”
” I’m telling the truth.”
” You didn’t go to the party with your sister. You went to visit your boyfriend again to have sex. What type of daughter are you? Your bad luck is the reason we’re here. You brought the same bad luck to New York by sleeping around again. Ariel, don’t you wanna go to college?” Mom questions, as my eyes start to water.
I keep on looking at Leslie but she’s avoiding my eyes.
” Oh my God , Ariel.” Alexa calls, walking into the living room. She shuts the front door and stares at me confused.
” What’s happening?”
” Ariel is just coming back. She said you took her out.”
” Yeah , we went to church.”
” And she’s just coming back from church?” Dad glares at Alexa.
Alexa sighs and crosses her arm.
“Fine. I ask them to party with me.” Alexa says.
“Them?”
” Yes. Arie and Les. They’ve been staying indoors and a friend is throwing a party down town. My boyfriend showed up and I left with him to a corner. Leslie left too but I really don’t know who she tagged along with. Ariel was drunk and lost , I couldn’t find her either since I was drunk too.”
” And she woke up in a man’s bed , right Ariel?”
” No- I mean yes. He gave me a ride because I was stranded and…”
“… Drunk!” Mom cuts me short.
” Alexa, are you trying to corrupt my daughters? Is that the reason you chose to stay the weekend? To take them to parties and make them drunk.”
” It’s not what you think…” Alexa mumbles.
” Really? That you have boyfriends and you’re not even a virgin. What are we supposed to think? You don’t have the fear of God and you run after men. You choose to take Leslie with you. I don’t even care about Ariel , she’s already useless.” Mom yells. I sniffle silently to hold back the tears.
” Fuck me, I’m just gonna leave.” Alexa scoffs and turns to climb the stairs.
” Mind your language, Alex.”
Alexa snorts all the way to get her bags.
” Ariel, you’re grounded. You’re staying in your room till you decide to cultivate a little form of dignity and discipline. You won’t eat anything for the rest of the three days. Get out of my presence.” Dad yells.
” Daddy.”
” Get out.” I flinch and run upstairs.
I met Alexa in our hallway with her bag. She smiles at me and hugs me.
” I’m sorry about Leslie , she’s such a dildo.” Alexa says and kisses my cheek.
” You can keep this. I overheard your mom telling mine she stopped your therapy. I’m sorry about that.” I open my hands and it’s a bundle of money.
” You can eat with that. Once we resume college we are gonna hang out more often and you’ll tell me about that hot stranger I saw you with at the club. I didn’t get to meet him.” I roll my eyes and thank her.
” I’m sorry about my parents.”
” It’s fine. It runs in the family. My mom’s like that sometimes. Be Careful.” She walks past me and climbs down the stairs.
I sigh and enter my room before locking my door. I hate my life. With my shoes still on, I slump on my bed and wipe my tears. I feel stupid for going in the first place.
My phone buzzes and it’s a new text message. I click on it and read the text.
From Gray: Tinkerbell , are you at home?
I roll my eyes and toss my phone aside. How can he steal my number and even save his number in my phone. I ignore it and press my face on my pillow. He’s gonna end up like Freddie. Always after your pants.
I wanna be far from him. He’s trouble in disguise and he was part of the reason I got stuck in some cocktail rubbish. If I didn’t agree to drink that, I would be at home , sleeping in my room in peace and not getting grounded and reminded countless times how I messed up in Georgia. I remembered my drunk state last night , I can’t believe I called him hot. I mean he’s hot , but a normal Ariel won’t call someone hot.
My phone dings again. One new message.
From Gray : Where’s my t-shirt and sweatpants , did you take it?
I chuckle and scoff.
To; Gray : No. Why did you steal my number? And why would I wanna take your T-shirt and sweatpants?
From; Gray: Because it looks sexy on you. You got beaten?
To: Gray: No, thanks I’m fine.
I sigh and blush.
From; Gray: Let’s hang out. I won’t bite.
I scoff and bite my lip. Is he serious? I’m not even comfortable around him. I’m always speechless with him standing close to me. My brain stops working at that moment and I end up embarrassing myself.
To; Gray: No , I’m not interested. I don’t wanna hang out with you. I don’t even know you.
From; Gray: it’s better you don’t know me. I’m outside your house, get dressed.
What the hell! I text him back immediately , how can he be outside my house?
To; Gray: you’re joking right?
From; Gray: Look through your window.
My heart beat is already drumming in my chest. Why’s he getting me scared? I don’t want him but he’s not staying away. I breathe in and look through my window. He’s not here.
To;Gray: Why are you lying?
From;Gray: I know your address, Snow White. Are you scared of me?
I sigh and tuck back my loose hair behind my ear.
To; Gray: I don’t know what you’re talking about. Just hanging out with you last night and I end up getting grounded.
I wanted to delete the message but I already sent it.
From;Gray: Grounded! Your parents are fucked up. You’re not sixteen, are you?
I ignore his text and toss my phone aside. He’s trying to make my life miserable. I look down at my ringing phone and it’s Gray. What does he want?
I ignored the call and text back.
To;Gray: please don’t call me. I really wanna stop talking to you.
From;Gray: like you can. You can’t avoid me , princess.
I roll my eyes and try to imagine him smirking right now.
To;Gray: I’m sorry to burst your bubble, mister Carter but I don’t want you. Stop texting me. I’m really not your type of girl. You already explained you don’t really like naive girls and I’m grateful I’m out of your league. I won’t be able to give you my body in exchange for whatever thing you’re planning.
And now I regretted why I typed that. He was nice , made me sleep well and asked his house help to change my clothes even if he looked like a bad guy.
I stand up from my bed and wrap my hair up tightly to shower. I haven’t taken my medicine and I’m grounded from eating and going out. What about Leslie? Nothing. I’m always the bad egg. I look at my phone and he hasn’t replied to my text. I scoff and thank my stars he didn’t reply but at the same time I was guilty. I take my bath and walk out of my bathroom only to find Leslie going through my phone.
” What are you doing?”
” Confirming my claims. I saw you walk out of the club with that hot guy and this…” she points to my phone.” This made everything simple. You’ve been secretly dating?”
” Why do you even care? You lied to Mom about last night and I got grounded.”
” That’s because you left with a man. Boo.”
” Please hand me back my phone.”
” And why should I do that?” She bats her lashes at me and smirks.
” Leslie , please. My phone.”
“You know you are a weirdo right? I just thought about highschool. How you asked Alexa to make you up so you would look presentable for Freddie.” She chuckles. Wait, she knows Freddie.
“You know Freddie?”
She scowls.” Who doesn’t. You have a secret crush on him in highschool. Always hanging out with him because you want him to look at you the same way you looked at him. It’s stupid you didn’t realize every hot asshole in highschool liked you.”
“You knew I was raped? You knew about me being raped and you couldn’t defend me.”
“Why would I defend you? You deserved it sometimes. Let’s just say, you look really cute each time you cry.” She laughs and that sparks the anger Inside me.
“Give me back my phone now.”
” I won’t do that shit. I’m gonna show mom you’ve been keeping a second boyfriend with the name Gray and he’s the guy you followed to his house. You’re dead , Ariel.” Leslie smirks and rushes out of my room with my phone.
” Leslie.” I call out to her but she’s already gone down the stairs.
Oh no. Why is she trying to make my life more miserable?
” Ariel!” Mom yells my name. I’m dead.
Chapter 7
” Ariel…” I heard dad’s voice this time. I know I’m good as dead. I quickly slip on my pajamas bottoms with a t-shirt and rush downstairs.
” Dad.”
” What’s this? Chatting with your boyfriend?” Mom asks, glaring at me and showing me the screen of my phone. Even if I really can’t clearly see the writings on my phone , I know what she’s talking about.
” What did we tell you about discipline?” Dad roars.
” I.. it’s not what you think.” I stutter.
” It’s not what we think? What do you want us to think? That last night you went out to party , then you got drunk and you drove home with a total stranger and you slept with him . Ariel you had sex again when your older sister is still a virgin! Why can’t you be like her for once!” Mom yells.
” Mom I-” I sob and meet eyes with Leslie who scoffs and looks away.
” Mom what, Ariel? We did our best to take you to school , the convent to be precise, and you spoiled everything. I thought coming to New York will straighten your already broken life but yet you’re still being useless…” Mom yells as my heart aches. I need my meds or I’m just gonna go insane.
” Who the hell is Gray?”
” I don’t even know him. He took me out and we did nothing, you have to believe me.”
” Believe you? Ariel , he’s texting you about wearing his sweatpants and he wants to take you out. What type of daughter are you?”
” I did nothing with him.” I yelled on top of my voice and I didn’t even recognize what I did. My mom slaps me across the face .
” How dare you? How dare you raise your voice at my wife, you whore?”
” I’m rebooking your visit to therapy. You need help and you’ve finally decided to turn into one of these hopeless street girls like your cousin Alexa. What happened to that little you that has dignity and fear of God? You dropped everything after meeting with that Freddie and now Gray. Aren’t you shameless?” Mom yells.
My hand is still plastered on my face and I wish I can run away. My shirt is decorated with my tears and another word I’m gonna faint.
” You’re grounded more. You’re not leaving this house and you’re not eating for the next five days.”
” Mom , dad.”
” Shut up! You…” My ringing phone stops my mother from talking. She looks at the dialer and glares at me. God let it not be him.
” It’s her boyfriend , Gray.” Mom scowls. Dad snatches the phone away from mom as he answers the call, putting my phone on loudspeaker.
” Ariel.” I hear his voice on the phone.
” This isn’t Ariel but her father. Now listen to me mister Gray , leave my daughter Ariel alone. Stay away from her and let her be. You can’t just go about deceiving her and getting her in your bed. Leave her alone , you stupid, useless street rat.” Oh God.
Why are they making things hard for me? Gray might be a weird stranger to me, but the worth of his house might even be my father’s entire income. That’s not even important , he has successfully humiliated me on the phone with Gray. I feel like a stupid teenager even if I’m not one.
” Lemme make myself clear to you…” mom says on the phone.” She’s not your type of girl. Ariel’s supposed to be in nun school serving and not following less ambitionless men like you. Keep your dick in your pants and leave her alone. She’s a Christian daughter and not meant to be used by hopeless hoodlums like you. Stop calling her.” Mom spits and smashes my phone on the wall.
” Mom…”
” Another word and I’m beating the hell out of you. Now to your room.” I sniffle and run back upstairs.
My life’s stupid. Most times I don’t expect all this from my parents. I feel like maybe I’m adopted. That crazy party caused almost half of this. How could Leslie show mom my phone? Does she hate me that much? I wipe my eyes with the back of my hand and sit up to swallow my pills. I really didn’t want Gray, but apparently he’s gonna see me as a dweeb. A controlled freak.
” You look down.” Leslie says at the side of my door.
” You’ll be fine, sweetheart.” She smirks sarcastically .
” You should leave. You’ve finally let mom insult me to Gray. Worst is that I even got slapped because of you. Do you enjoy seeing me hurt?” She shrugs and crosses her arms.
” So who’s this unfortunate Gray? What’s so attractive about you that made him take you home?” I blink my eyes at Leslie’s hate speech.
It’s not her fault.
I’m not classy. I don’t wear skimpy dresses and nice crop tops. My wardrobe is filled with jeans and hoodies and sweaters and t-shirts and some types of dresses that classy girls don’t wear. I can’t afford their expensive hair extensions like Alexa. I’m not like Leslie either , she’s almost like these models with super sexy movements and always on social media. If my parents would ever allow a carefree life , then Leslie would be at a magazine shoot posing naked for the covers. She pretends too much.
” I bet he’s ugly , hmm?” She teases and furrows her brows in disgust. Yeah , I’m too lame for Gray. I see the paparazzi he caused by just sitting across from me in that club.
His cars are expensive compared to my truck. He smells wealthy, including his house. I saw people’s eyes when I left the club with him even in my drunk state. What would he want from me? I’m just this naive Christian, like he calls me.
” It’s none of your business.” I state, looking far away from her.
” Yeah. Of course not.” She scoffs and turns to leave.
I just can’t wait to start college , at least I’ll be far away from them. The only time they’re possibly gonna see me is after class. My parents made sure we don’t stay on campus or even around campus. So we’re stuck with them. Or maybe I’m stuck with them. I wish I could make my own decisions just like Leslie , but I’m stuck with being a naive and controlled person. Too scared.
***
It’s been a week since the Gray incident. I haven’t heard from him , of course I don’t even have a phone anymore. I don’t go out and I’m always in my bedroom. Reading and sleeping, my life’s boring. I sit on the chair of the counter and stir my coffee endlessly.
” Mom , I’m going out with a friend.”
” You’ve gotten a new friend?”
” Mom , it’s Hazel. She’s a good girl and doesn’t have a boyfriend.” Leslie tells Mom walking to the kitchen.
” Is she in college?”
” Yes, mom.” Leslie smiles drinking from her cup of coffee.
” She goes to church and is a member of the Catholic parish. Her dad is also a respected elder in church…” Leslie continues.
I secretly roll my eyes and envy the way mom listens. I dare not say ‘I’m going out’.
” Oh, there she is.” We dart our head to the kitchen door as I scan this pretty Blond.
She smiles at us and greets me and Mom. She looks too good to be true.
” Mom , this is Hazel. Hazel , meet my mom.”
” A pleasure to meet you, ma.”
” It’s nice to meet you too , dear. Leslie says a lot about you. So you’re hanging out with her this weekend?” Mom’s voice beams with eagerness and her smile is so genuine.
” Yes , and we’ll be back early. We promise to be good girls.”
” Sure thing. Please don’t get drunk , I don’t want you to wake up in a man’s bed wearing his sweatpants.” Mom says. I bite the inside of my cheek and stare non-stop at my coffee. I can’t believe she had to use me as an example.
” Thanks , mom.” Leslie kisses mom on her cheek and rushes out with Hazel.
Mom scoffs and turns to look at me . I gulp the entire tea and stand up from the stool. I’m trying to avoid my mom’s ranting. She hisses and stirs her spaghetti on the cooker.
” Mom…” I called out.
” What! ” She turns to look at my figure standing beside the door.
I wanted to tell her about my new plan. I was tired of sitting at home all day so I need a job and I wanna go out to look for one.
” I want to look for a job.” I spit out, almost not calculating.
” A job?”
” Yes. I wanna be useful and not sit at home all day.” I say and continue before she taunts me.” It’s gonna be a decent job and I’m not following or visiting any man. I’m sorry about that stranger, Gray, and I’ll never go close to him again.” Now i feel like a stupid teenager again. Like I’m in highschool.
” So I should believe you?”
” Please, mom. I promise to never bring trouble.” I pout, rubbing my sweaty hand together.
” Fine. And I wanna know the type of job once you find one. At least by 6pm you should be at home. Clear?”
” Clear.” I breathe out and rush out.
I rush upstairs and put on a black jeans and a t- shirt before rushing down the stairs. At least I’ll be breathing normal air aside from the air from my air conditioner.
After my daily search for a job , I found one at Sandy’s, a restaurant and it’s really classy. I’m glad it’s a part- time job with shifts. Since I really haven’t started college, I decided to resume work by noon and round up by 5:30 pm. It’s gonna be a long time for me to gather myself before reaching home by six.
” You’ll be fine.” Sandy whispered to me on my first day of resumption. I have changed my clothes to her work clothes and it’s a shirt with the name of her restaurant at the back on top of my trousers.
I tag alongside Vickie , arranging desserts and snacks on each table. I return back to the counter to take orders from every other customer. A pair of blue eyes catches my attention , staring at me. I raise my head to look at this stranger as he smirks before looking back at his friend.
” That was weird.” I mutter while taking a cup of coffee to give to this blue eyed man.
” Your coffee , sir.” I address him even if he’s in his early twenties , maybe Leslie’s age.
” Thanks. Call me Ryan.” He answered sincerely.
” Uh, Sure.” I reply about leaving but they stop me.
” Can we get your name?” His other friend asks. He’s a brunette with hazel eyes.
” It’s Ariel. I need to get back to work.”
” Sure.” Ryan said and he’s giving me the creeps with his unending stare.
I nod politely and walk back to my stand.
” Asking you out?” Vickie asks and nudges me with a smile.
” Not really.”
” Yeah.” She giggles and smiles.
I arrange my hair properly to a tight bun and take out the used dish from the tables. I walk back to the counter and arrange the plates on the dishwasher for the supposed cleaners. I walked back to the counter and a sight made me stop on my track. What’s he doing here? Vickie was standing beside him smiling endlessly as they talked. I didn’t even notice the dark haired girl opposite him in one of the booths.
” Great , I’m just gonna puke.” I mutter to myself.
His head raises up from the table and his eyes meet mine. I gulp and look away. What’s he doing here? Vickie walks back and sighs standing by me.
” I’m still trying to catch my breath.” Vickie mumbles beside me.
” You’re okay?”
” I’m not. Look around , didn’t you see someone unusual?” I look around and I can see some girls stealing glances at Gray Carter. I can barely tell his stand around New York.
” Just Gray sitting with a girl.”
” Just Gray? Gray is the hottest guy ever in New York and also one of the richest men around the country. Many women will obviously dump their husbands because of him.”
” That’s ridiculous.”
” I really can’t explain to you who Gray Carter is.” He’s just one annoying stalker that brought me nothing but trouble.
” I don’t care.”
” 70% of New Yorkers care, sweetie. He’s the envy of men and the gossip of every normal person.” So obviously I’m not normal.
” Oh my gosh , he’s coming to the counter.” Vickie murmurs beside me. God I hate her.
” You care for something?” Vickie asks Gray who’s already leaning on the counter.
He doesn’t say a word but stares at me. His grey orbs glue to my figure in front of him.
” Coffee , please.” He says, still not breaking the intense eye contact.
” Alright.” Vickie replies.
” Not you , let her do it.” Gray says looking at Vickie before smirking at me.
” Alright.” He’s so intimidating. I can’t believe I lost my voice because he’s standing just an inch from me.
He nods politely and walks back to his table. What’s he up to? I hopefully brewed two cups of coffee and made sure it’s perfect. That weird brunette he’s sitting with stares at me. Her glares are worse than intimidating. I arrange the coffee on a platter and slowly walk back to his booth, making sure I don’t spill his coffee.
” Thank you.” He says but doesn’t spare me a smile.
I nod politely and walk away. The rest of the day was terrible for me because he was always staring. That evening , I closed for the day and hurriedly shower in the bathroom before getting dressed. I walk out of the restaurant and halt to the presence in front of me. His grey eyes scan my figure with his hands in his pockets. I open my mouth to speak but nothing comes out.
” What are you doing here?” I manage to ask.
“Get in the car.” He says, opening his car for me.
” I’m sorry , I can’t.” I stutter and try to walk past him but he pulls me back to himself. My hands rest on his chest as his eyes pry all over me.
” Get in.” I gulp and nod , scared of whatever thing this cute man is willing to do. I entered his car as he shut the door.
He turns around and enters his driver’s seat to ignite the car. This is so expensive with it’s tinted windows.
” Where are we going?” I ask him. He turns on the radio and drives onto the road. He refuses to meet my eyes but continues driving.
I fiddle my fingers and look at my lap.
” What did your parents say? Were you beaten?” He asks but doesn’t stare.
” Not really.”
” But she smashed your phone?” He asks and meets my eyes.
” Yeah.” I nod. He scoffs and continues driving.
“Have you ever defended yourself?”
“I can’t. They are my parents.”
“Fuck them. The last time I checked , parents have no fuckin’ right to hit their kids. They should be arrested for that.”
I sigh and look out the window. I watch the city pass swiftly through his tinted windows. Who’s he? Always showing up in my life and it’s weird.
“How did you know my name?” I ask and turn to face him. His natural messy locks are everywhere as usual. He handles the wheel with one hand and turns to look at me. A smirk slowly tugged on his lips and he looked away.
“I have my ways, Tinkerbell.” Tinkerbell , Snow White and now Ariel. What else?
“Yeah. Because it’s weird you’re always everywhere around me. It’s crazy the day i managed to find a job , you thought it’s best you eat out with your girlfriend.” I scoff and look out the window. I feel his eyes burn holes through my skin. I could nearly tell he smirked. Such a jerk.
“Girlfriend? Don’t tell me you’re jealous?”
I chuckle silently and whip my head to look at his figure. I didn’t realize he took off his jacket and he’s just left with his grey colored t-shirt. I scan every ink on his skin and his pretty Arabic neck tattoo. It’s so tiny you could barely tell the words.
“Done eye raping me?” He raises his brows and smirks.
I roll my eyes and look away from his intimidating self. How did we come to know each other? Always barging back into my life.
The rest of the ride was tense , because I wasn’t breathing from my nostrils. I look up and meet his eyes but they look away instantly. He halts his car beside the road a little far from my house. He turns down the radio and unfastens his seatbelt.
” Thank you.” He raises his brows and watches me carefully. I gulp and open his car to get out.
I shut my side door only to find Gray in front of me.
” Take this.” He hands me a new iPhone.
” I can’t…” I stutter.
” Take it.” He glares at me.
” I can’t. You’re gonna get me in trouble.”
” Are you a teenager?” Of course not. I rub the back of my neck and sigh.
” Ariel , take it.” I bite my lip and hold back my blush. It’s weird he called my name.
” I can’t.”
He takes a step closer to me and drops the phone on the roof of his car. I can’t move and he’s standing in front of me , inch apart. God he smells so good. I can’t look away from his grey eyes that are glued to mine. His hand brushes on my cheek and pushes back my loose strands of hair behind my ear.
I can’t breathe properly , he’s making my tommy churn. I didn’t notice his hands around my waist and that sent shivers down my spine.
” I need to go.” I stutter, not looking away from his eyes.
” Take the phone and call me.”
” It’s fruitless , they are gonna destroy it.”
He chuckles. “They won’t. Tell them it’s Gray Carter and call me. If you don’t call me, I’m gonna ring your doorbell and tell your parents I’m your boyfriend.” He leans closer, his hot breath fans my neck as he bites my earlobe. I jump in shock, but he holds me close to himself.
” I dare you to call me.” He smirks and hands the phone to me before entering his car and driving away.
Chapter 8
I shove the phone in my bag and walk inside our apartment. Mom and dad are having dinner with Leslie. They seem happy. They talked and laughed and it’s really great. I ignored them and walked past them but mom stopped me.
“Your dinner is served.”
” Thanks mom.” I reply and rush upstairs. I toss my bag on my bed and climb downstairs to eat. I’ve been starving and I didn’t even notice.
I sit close to Leslie and pick out a fork to eat after praying.
” So sinners do pray ?” Mom teases, drinking her glass of juice. I secretly roll my eyes and continue eating.
” So how are you enjoying your job at Sandy’s ?” Dad asked.
” Very fine , thanks dad.”
” Can I know the reason why you choose to work ?”
” College is starting in a week’s time. I’m tired of staying at home without having something to do.”
” Wow. That’s epic.” Leslie scowls.
“Do you have male customers ?” Mom asks and that bothers me.
” We do.” I reply looking at both my parents.
“Have you gotten a boyfriend yet ? A customer boyfriend ? It seems you’re always good at getting guys to look at you.” Mom snorts.
“I bet she throws herself at them.” That was Leslie.
I sigh and look down on my food. She’s always good at making me feel inferior.
” I hope that’s not true. Cause it’s gonna be dead bad for you. The fact that you’re out of nun school doesn’t mean you can mess around. We forgive you about that club nonsense and that’s the reason we allowed you to get a job. You should always try to be like your sister.” Dad scolded me. My eyes meet Leslie’s. she wink and smirk.
Why would I wanna be like her?
Always faking everything in front of my parents. It’s really weird that my parents don’t see that. My eyes scan her newly made manicured nails , so my parents didn’t say a word. They’ve always hated things like that.
” Sure Dad.” I reply in order to end their conversation. I ate in silence hoping they wouldn’t talk more about me.
They talked about their new church friend Janell and I couldn’t wait to get out of here. I finished my pancakes and bacon and stood up from their gathering. After washing the plates, I return to my room. I remembered Gray’s words , I really don’t wanna call him . Same time he’s not joking. Knocking on my door and telling my parents he’s my boyfriend will ruin my life , including college. I hated that I had to meet him in the first place.
I pull out my damaged phone and remove the Sim card and place it inside Gray’s phone that I really didn’t want. I switched it on and waited impatiently. I don’t know why I’m doing this but I clicked on his name that he actually saved in my phone and dialed his number. I stand up from my bed and stand in front of my mirror. My reflection is always the same , never changing.
” Hey.” I said on the phone, making sure I wasn’t heard.
” Are you this scared?” I rolled my eyes and locked my door.
” What do you mean?”
” You called.” I sigh and run my fingers on my loose hair.
” I really don’t have a choice.”
” And why’s that?”
” You’re kidding me right now. You threatened me that you were gonna knock on my parents door and tell them you’re my boyfriend.”
” That wasn’t a threat though.” I sigh and sit on my bed.
” I know, that was why I called. You’re worse than trouble itself. I could barely fathom what you want from me.”
He was quiet for seconds.
” What I want from you?”
” Yeah. Look Gray I’m not really your type of girl. I’m this naive Christian like you called me. You’re super different from me. So what do you really want?”
Another second of quietness.
” Gray..” I called out.
He chuckled.” So what makes you think I want something from you?”
” You’re always coming around.”
” Really? You want me.”
” Of course I don’t.” I sigh and run my fingers down my hair again.
” Yeah? And why are you always nervous around me?”
” ‘Cause I don’t know you.” I told half the truth.
” You don’t have to know me. You’re definitely gonna run away from me.” Run away?
I sigh and stay quiet.
” What do you want from me , Gray ?”
“What do you think I want from you?”
” Sex.” And that came out unexpectedly.
There was silence till I heard Gray chuckle on the phone. I roll my eyes and it’s weird I smiled.
“Is that what you want ?”
” What ? No. Jesus.”
” I can get sex from any random girl. I don’t like naive church girls.” And I hate to be referred to as naive.
“That’s not even an answer.”
“I’m picking you up tomorrow.”
” Gray , don’t.”
” Go out for dinner with me.”
” I can’t. I’m working and I can’t stay out late.”
” I’ll come pick you up by five , you don’t really have to say no. Get ready tomorrow.” With that said, he hung up. For crying out loud , I am the one who should hang up cause I called.
I remove my SIM card and switch the phone off, keeping it back in its case. I’m returning it back even if my conscience doesn’t want me to. I sat on the chair opposite my mirror and stared at my reflection. My mind drifts to Gray Carter. What does he really want? I look back at the phone sitting on the headboard and avert my gaze back to my reflection.
I reach for my pills and swallow it dry without water. I look for my book and I can’t remember when I last read it. *How to fight against depression* I stare blankly at the book cover and toss it aside. I needed a good shower and a nice bath. After taking my bath , I slip on my pajamas and crash on my bed.
The following day I left rather too early for work. Hazel visited Leslie and they’ve been talking non-stop about boys and make up.
” Good morning.” I greeted Brenda. She’s working only in morning hours and at noon Vickie and I take over.
” Morning.” She replied with a smile.
” You’re early.”
” I was bored at home.” I reply sincerely. There’s not much to do around my boring life.
” Hope you’re good?”
” Yeah.” I smile and walk to the change room to change over.
At noon , Vickie showed up. She looks a bit tired and frustrated.
” Are you okay ?” I asked her after she had already changed her clothes.
” Yeah. My mom’s a bit sick and I won’t stay too long. You’ll have to cover my shift.”
” Woah.”
” It’s fine. I explained to Sandy , she said she’s gonna bring a girl who’s gonna assist you.”
I sigh thinking about Gray. Of course he’s gonna walk through that door and take me out.
” Hope your mom’s feeling better ?”
” Yeah , thanks Ariel.” She smiles and walks to a customer to take his orders.
Today’s gonna be the worst day of my life. The day was shorter than i Imagined. It’s almost five and I look like a depressed widow. I’m tired as hell.
” You’re closing by 7:pm today.” Sanya said.
” I can’t.”
” Why?”
“Because I really can’t close by 7. I already handled half of Vickie’s shift.”
“We’ll see about that then.” She scoffed. Just then Gray walks in. His dark hair is a cute mess. He smiles at me as he leans against the counter.
” What are you doing here?”
” It’s five.”
” I can’t, I’m working.” I reply looking at Sanya who’s watching.
” Your boss?” He asks, referring to Sanya who’s tensed.
” Manager.”
He walks to Sanya who smiles seductively at him.
” I need to lend Ariel for the day.”
” Uh.” She stuttered disappointedly.
” I need to take her with me. It’s 5pm.” She sighs and nods defeatedly. For some reason I’m happy. I look broken… like tired.
Gray returns and shoots me that crazy smirk of his. I sigh and walk to the change room to shower quickly and change.
” So you’re his new toy?” Sanya’s voice startles me.
” I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
” He just wants to fuck you , hope you know that right?”
The sound of her foul language almost made me throw up.
” I’m just gonna leave. Thanks by the way.” I walk past her to meet Gray who I assume was outside.
I hurried outside and he was leaning against his black tinted sport’s car. Damn another huge machine that cost him a lot.
” Look I’m grateful you bailed me out , but I really don’t wanna eat out with you.” He ignored me and opened the door for me.
” Get in.” I sigh defeatedly and shake my head sideways.
” Will you please enter?” He asks in his British accent.
“Why did you switch your accent ?” I asked. He proceeded to touch me but I hurriedly entered his car.
He shuts the door and turns around to enter the driver’s seat. He’s a crazy driver. The speed was worse than the first time and I couldn’t help but steal glances at his figure. What type of psychopath is this ?
” Did you just get out of rehab?” I ask him.
” No princess.” He replies and smirks.
” Please don’t get me killed. The speed is too much.” I yell at him. I can’t imagine going to jail with Gray because of his murder attempt called driving.
After speeding for 15 minutes, he halts outside a restaurant. I heave a deep breath and look at his grey orbs.
” I’m sorry to announce to you but you need to go back to rehab. You don’t drive like that.”
” You’re driving us back to your house if that’s what you want.” He said getting out of the car. I jumped out without waiting for him to open my side door.
I gasp silently at the restaurant. It’s fancy and of course wealthy. He took my hand in his and I didn’t notice we had intertwined fingers.
” Welcome , mister Carter.” A waitress says leading the match. Her smile wasn’t genuine because her eyes were glued to my hand on Gray’s. I politely sneak my hand out of his grip and walk beside him.
I don’t fit in here. Most ladies who steal glances from Gray and I had expensive hairdos and dresses. I look like a lost girlfriend with my pink hoodie and black jean trousers. Gray is sort of a black jacket freak. Always wearing black jackets. He draws out a seat for me as I sit down admiring his nice gestures.
” I’ll be back sir.” The waitress smiled and walked out.
I look at this side of the restaurant and it’s secluded with just a dim light. It’s sort of romantic in here . Once again I’m tense just sitting across Gray Carter. His eyes are not leaving mine for any reason. I nervously run my fingers through my hair and lock eyes with the table.
” Are you nervous ? Or you’re scared ?” Just when I was about to answer, the waitress walks in with a platter filled with different kinds of meals. The sight of lasagna made me smile. It’s one of my favorite foods.
She arranged the food on the table and filled two glasses with wine. She dropped the wine on the table and left after shooting me weird glances.
” Do you always pull crowds like this?” I ask.
” I’m not a celebrity.”
” Yeah? But I see the eyes.”
” Go on and eat.”
” I’m not hungry.” Just when I thought I’ve won, my stomach disgraced me with its growl .
” God.” I mutter and blush.
” Go on.” Gray motion to the food holding back a laugh.
I throw away my nervousness at the aroma of the lasagna , grilled beef and spicy chicken. I take a deep breath and pick up my fork to eat. He wasn’t eating , just watching me.
” You’re not eating.”
” I’m fine.”
” No you’re not. You should eat something, you need it.” I say.
He smiles and takes in my gaze.
” Then you’re feeding me.”
” What ?” I chuckle.”That’s not happening.”
“Why ?”
“I’m not playing mommy .” I shrugged and drank the wine.
“Oh.” He laughs and nod.
” I’m good. Eat, I’ll watch.”
I sigh and look at my already consumed lasagna. This tasted better than my mom’s. Well that’s homemade.
“Were you supposed to be a nun?” Gray asks out of the blue. I pause from drinking the wine and sigh. Why did he have to bring up this conversation? I look around the restaurant and avoid eye contact with him.
“It’s fine if you don’t want to tell me.” I sigh and nod , grateful that he’s not pushy.
“Why did you bring me here if you weren’t gonna eat ?”
” It’s pretty hot to watch you eat.” He says and watches me with his extremely seductive smirk.
After dinner we left the restaurant and as promised, he didn’t eat a thing. He halted the car in his usual spot as I reached to get out.
” Thanks.” I halt, still holding the door.
He pushed a button as the door opened on it’s own. I get out and watch him drive away.
The following day I bathe early to go to work. College starts on Monday and I can’t wait to start. I picked up the phone Gray bought and dropped it inside my bag. Yesterday’s memory did not leave my mind but then I remembered what Sanya said. Referring to me as Gray’s new toy. I sigh and park my car in front of Gray’s residence. After the first day I got drunk , I haven’t stepped foot here. I wanted to talk to him , give him back his phone and stop whatever thing we’re doing cause I don’t even know what I’m doing.
” I need to talk to Gray.” I said to the emotionless guy outside his mansion.
” Who are you? You don’t look like one of Gray’s bitches.” Another guy said. He looks better than the first guy. His white dress shirt exposes a glimpse of his tattooed chest.
” I just wanna see him.”
” What are you doing here? You look different. Gray would never bang a girl like you. You should leave.” The emotionless guy said.
” Shut up , Carl. Come with me.” I stare at Carl before following the other guy inside.
There he was smoking and shirtless. His back is against us and his black jean pants were a bit downwards exposing his Calvin Klein briefs.
” Gray.”
He turned around and he was sort of shocked to see me.
” Manny, leave.” The guy nods and walks out. I sigh and cross my arms looking at shirtless Gray and his tatted toned body. Without doubts , he’s well built in and out.
He drops his cigarette on the ashtray and walks towards my figure.
“Hey…” I said. He still smells great after smoking hell.
” You wanna sit?”
“Thanks, I’m gonna be late for work. I thought I should bring this back ” I say bringing out the phone.
” I’m sorry , I can’t keep it.” I take a deep breath after saying that. I dropped it on his glass table and tucked back no loose hair.
He smiles and calls out to Manny.
” Throw that away.” Gray said motioning to the phone. Now I feel guilty. Why did I bring it back if he’s definitely gonna throw it away.
I looked at Manny who stared weirdly at Gray.
” You heard me.” Gray glares at Manny. Manny nods and walk out with the phone.
” You really…”
” It’s fine.” He takes two steps and he’s standing right in front of me. Inches apart. I wanted to move back but my legs weren’t obliged to.
” Why are you scared of me?” He asks, not breaking the eye contact.
” I’m not…” I stutter. I’m not really scared of him , I’m just scared of myself. Freddie’s incident left a scar in me.
He tucked my loose strands of hair behind my ear and caress his thumb on my cheek, that seems to have an effect on me.
” What do you want?” He asks calmly, still running his fingers on my cheek.
” I.. ” I stutter, not too sure of my own words. I think I’m lacking oxygen right now.
“I want us to… Stay away from each other. I…” He cut me short at once with his lips.
My eyes already flutter shut on it’s own and I’m kissing back. He tastes so good and I’m not willing to stop even if I really wanna stop. Automatically, my hands find it’s way to his nape and I run my fingers on his smooth thick hair. His hands grip around my waist pulling me to himself.
I kiss back like my life depends on it and he’s not slowing down. I feel his hands move up and down my back as he kisses me. My skin already heats up and it’s unusual that I want him more than I’ve wanted someone. What’s he doing to me?
I sort of moan in his mouth and I don’t know how that happened. And then it dawned on me that this is my first proper kiss.
“I’ve always wanted to do this the very first day I barged into your car.”
Chapter 9
We stopped kissing but that didn’t break us from that sudden drama. He leans his forehead against mine as his eyes meet mine. And that was when I got back my senses. I just kissed a boy , not just a guy , but a tatted stranger Gray.
I flinch and move away from him. He smirks and shoves his hands in his pockets. I wanted to speak but my eyes couldn’t help but check him out. Even if I was a nerdy depressed introvert , I could obviously tell when I see an absolutely pretty person. He was one of those. His toned self would make any normal girl lick him all over. But I wasn’t that normal girl.
” Why did you do it ?” I stutter.
” You liked it.” Of course I don’t. Or maybe I do.
” We should stop this , please. I really don’t wanna get into more trouble hanging out with you.”
” Troubles ? What troubles ?”
” I really need to leave. We should stay away from each other. I don’t wish to continue this , please.”
He smirks again.” You taste good.” Is he serious ?
Of course he’s not.
He’s obviously a crackhead that ran away from rehab and then barged into my car.
His smirk is something I really don’t like seeing. It makes me feel weird. Naturally he’s intimidating to me. I could barely breathe just standing so close to him.
” I need to leave.” I turn to walk out but his hands grip to my arm.
He pulls me to himself and locks eyes with me. I really don’t like the way I’m feeling. I’ve always wished I could avoid him but he’s always coming back.
“Please..”
He ran his thumb on my cheek and that seemed to raise an unknown heat inside of me.
“It’s a deal right ?” He asks with his eyes not leaving mine. His lips are ruby and inviting. My eyes scan every of his black ink on his tone self.
“I can’t handle you.”
He smiles and nods.
“Why did you return the phone ?”
“I don’t need it.”
” Do you have a phone ?”
I raise my eyebrows and sigh. Where’s he driving to , cause I’m not really enjoying this ride.
” I’ll be late for work.” He let go of my arm and shove his hands back into his pockets.
” There you go.” I bite the inside of my cheek and nod before turning around and walking out of his millions called a house.
My eyes met that Manny guy who referred to me as one of Gray’s bitches. I sigh and hurry out of his house. He was called boss, what is that supposed to mean? I entered my car and ignited the engine. The ride was intense for me because my head was occupied by that kiss. Why did I kiss back in the first place ? Of course I don’t have an answer.
I park my car outside Sandy’s and walk inside. I’m really early.
” Ariel..” she smiles at me. Sometimes I wish she was my mom. She’s obviously patient and knows how to amend every stupid situation.
” Good morning , Sandy.” I greeted her walking to the counter.
” You’re okay ?” She asked me, cleaning the counter.
” Lemme help with that.” I said reaching to collect the napkin she’s cleaning the table with.
” Don’t worry I can do this.” She smiles.
“I wish.” She sighs defeatedly and hands me the napkin.
” Where’s Vickie ?”
” On her way.” I nod and clean the counter.
“So how are you ?” She asked me.
“I’m great. At least I’m still breathing.”
She laughs and nods.”Fact. I like that.”
“I should get ready.”
“Go ahead.”
Sandy barely hangs around the restaurant. She’s always out with her husband and every other activity. I changed into my work clothes and cleaned every table before Vickie showed up.
“Hi Ariel.” She waved at me walking to the counter.
“Welcome latecomer.” I tease . She laughs and nudges me before walking to the change room.
“Coffee please.” A female customer says, and motions to her table.
“Sure.” I replied. She smiles and retires to one of the booths.
I make the coffee and take it to the customer. That morning wasn’t easy for me. I’m always thinking about that Gray incident. Something inside me didn’t really regret the act , but I obviously did. It was so wrong but yet it feels so right. He’s weird and strange to me.
But it seems every freak around New York knows him. Or maybe around the United States actually , doesn’t really matter.
“Are you okay ?” Vickie asks after taking a customer’s order.
“Yeah. Just thinking.”
“About what ?” I sigh and look at Vickie who’s so eager. Of course I can’t tell her I had a proper kiss with Gray Carter. It’s gonna be stupid. And plus, I’m having issues trusting people.
“It’s nothing.” I shake my head sideways.
“Can you both stop gossiping?” Sanya, the manager, snapped at us.
I really don’t like her. She’s an ass and always acts like she owns Sandy’s. Vickie rolls her eyes and arranges a glass of juice and snacks on a platter to take to a table.
“Table four please..” a cheesy lady shouted.
I scoffed and carried her meal to her.
“Anything else ?” I ask politely after arranging her orders.
“Please excuse yourself.”
“Sure.” I nod politely and walk out.
“Are you okay ?”
I look down at myself and avert my gaze back to Vickie. She shrugs an arm and raises her blonde eyebrows.
“I look okay, right ?”
“You do, but your mood doesn’t. Are you okay ?”
“Yeah, I’m fine.” I sigh and look at our customers eating.
“You look like someone whose boyfriend broke up with her.” I laugh at her hilarious joke.
” I don’t even have a boyfriend.” I snort.
” Why ? Haven’t you seen the guy you liked ?” And that’s a tough question. I roll my eyes and tap my fingers absently on the counter.
After whatever Freddie did , I really don’t see men nice or even attractive. It’s really stupid , Gray was cute to me , worse still beautiful.
” I really don’t want to date. Like I’m not ready. It takes a lot of heart to date someone.” I said feeling my own stupid motivational speech.
” It’s true though. I’ve gone through several heartbreaks since highschool and now. I’m still dating someone though , hoping.” She shrugs and tuck her blonde hair with a smile. Now I wish I didn’t lie , I should have told her my reasons.
The door swings open as Alexa and Leslie walk in chattering. Leslie looks happy , like genuinely happy. I really can’t remember when I was genuinely happy. But it’s sometimes awkward , Gray makes me forget my pain each time I’m with him.
“Arie..” Alexa squeals loudly buying the attention of gossips in disguise of customers.
” You’re not looking bad..” Leslie snorts .
” Hey Alex. Hi Les.”
” You look awesome.” Alexa smiles.
“You look really beautiful.” I widened my eyes at her new hairdo. Bleached blonde hair and tanned skin. Her blue contact lens really suits her. Alexa is a weirdo.
” You’re pretty.” I mutter to both of them. Leslie looks the same , just extra sexy clothes that I always wonder if my parents ever see her dressed like this . What are they doing here in the first place ?
” I’ll be back.” I told the girls and walked out with Vickie to clean up the tables since most customers were done eating.
We walk back to the counter to see Leslie laughing at something Alexa must have told her. She looks crazy chewing gum that way.
” Ariel , why are you working ?” Alexa asks.
I sigh.
” Your parents aren’t broke. They are cool. Why are you working ?”
” Alex , I’m fine. I’m tired of staying at home doing nothing. So looking for a job was definitely gonna save me from my parents’ abusive words and my sister’s nosy act.” I replied.
” So you’re saying I’m nosy ?” Leslie batted her lashes still chewing that gum.
I ignore her and smile at Alex.
” That’s really a nice step though. Who wouldn’t run away from parents like yours. And about Leslie , she’s an Asshole. Ignore her.” I chuckle and shrug.
” How’s that my fault ? I saw her texting a guy named Gray. The same guy whom she spent the night with.” Leslie says. She talks a lot and I hate her a lot for that.
Alexa smirks and raises her brows leaning carefully on the counter.
” What !”
” You really haven’t told us about this Gray. Is he as hot as Gray Carter ?” Alexa pressures .
” Of course he can’t be as hot as Gray Carter. What will a guy as hot as Gray Carter want from Ariel ? No offense boo.” Leslie scowls.
I roll my eyes and look at Alexa who sneers at Leslie.
“What’s up sis! Is he hot? Did you both have sex?” Jesus, what the hell!
” No we didn’t.”
” You woke up in his bed wearing his sweatpants and of course t-shirts. What’s that supposed to mean dummy?” Leslie asks. There’s jealousy in her tone.
” I didn’t sleep with him.” I sigh and look at Vickie who’s already entertained. Why will they bring up such things in my place of work?
” So what does he look like ?”
” I’m not interested in him and I really don’t wanna talk about it.”
” Of course. It’s just father Benjamin that’s definitely gonna ask girls like sister Ariel out? I’m perplexed.” Leslie snorts.
” She’s jealous.” Alexa scoffs and asks me to make coffee for her.
” Talking about Gray Carter. Damn, he’s a hot gig.” Alexa smirks and wiggle her brows.
” True. A lot of girls would do anything to be his girl for a night.” Vickie added. I almost choke on nothing but pretend like I didn’t hear them.
” I really haven’t seen him , just magazines and social media. He’s totally hot.” Leslie moans and bites her bottom lip.
” Les , don’t say that. The day I met him in Las Vegas , I almost pee on my panties. I just want a night out with him then I’m okay.”
” Alex, you have a boyfriend.” I huff loudly, getting irritated with their choice of conversation.
” Does it even matter? We’re dating, not married. So obviously, I have every right to grind with a super hot Gray.” She twists her waist, snapping her fingers like she’s humming to a song.
” That’s cheating.”
” Who cares, let him cheat too.” Alexa scoffs and rolls her eyes.
I shook my head sideways and ignored her. What a cousin.
“He’s always busy. Driving tinted cars. I’ve always wished we could meet in a club so that I can give him a good lap dance.” Alexa says. So she really haven’t come across him in a stupid club.
” He eats here once in a while with some brunette sometimes.” Vickie says.
” Really? Do you have any vacancies? I wanna work.” Alexa says and I chuckle. I gave her her coffee as she paid.
” What’s so special about him in the first place?” I mutter, keeping Alexa’s payment.
” You really don’t have to ask Ariel. He’s not for girls like you. He would never look at you, so forget it.” Leslie snorts. Now I wish I could punch her on the nose right now.
Why does she find joy in talking bad words about me? Reminding me that I’m unfortunate. It’s stupid. Because I just kissed that same Gray Carter. He’s too good for the crowd and it seems almost every girl wants to hang out with him. Seriously.
” You said he eats here sometimes?” Alexa asks Vickie.
” Yeah. I’m sure he’s gonna walk through that door any moment from now.”
Speak of the grey eyed devil and he just walks in. My breath caught in my throat and I could see shock in the eyes of the girls. Yeah , he’s attractive. His tattoos were visible on his simple black T-shirt. He looks perfect , but I don’t care. Seeing him standing a few feet from me reminds me of that weird kiss. Who kisses a boy they don’t know? A normal person. Most ladies avert their gaze to Gray Carter.
” Hi, welcome to Sandy’s. What do you care for?” Vickie asks giggling like a high school student who just saw her crush. So silly.
Alexa and Leslie stayed still watching this grey-eyed God. Yeah , those who cared to stare at him , continued straining their necks.
Vickie takes his orders as he slowly avert his gaze to my nervous self. I tuck back my loose hair and look at Leslie who is tense.
“Fuck me hard and get me pregnant.” Alexa mutters close to Gray.
” Sorry?” Gray says and whip his head to look at Alexa who’s already smirking like a temptress. Holy hell. I can barely concentrate.
” Hi , Gray.” Alexa greeted him.
” Hey.” He smiles plainly at her. I feel weird, like I’m jealous.
” Can I lend your phone? Wanna call my ma.” She pouts and smirks. Alexa is pretty and also a model. I bet any normal and hot guy would never ignore her. Why am I thinking so hard? I thought I wanted to end things with him.
“Sure.” Gray hands his phone to her as she dialed in a number and pressed the call icon.
“That’s my number.” She gives him back his phone and leans a bit closer to him with a smirk. She trails her fingers on his shoulders as Gray looks down at her perfectly manicured expensive nails.
Now I feel really jealous.
She leans closer to him and whispers
“Call me..”
Chapter 10
Gray looks at me before walking out of the restaurant with his order. Alexa squealed with a victory dance and that made some customers chatter amongst themselves. Leslie faked a smile and giggled.
” That was sudden.”
” That’s how to get a boy. Learn from the best.”
” So what are you gonna do when he calls you?” Leslie asks.
“We booked a hotel and…” She wiggle her brows and smile.
” What if he doesn’t call you?” I choose to ask.
“He will. Everyone likes a good pussy.” She winks and drinks her coffee.
I feel weird like I’m jealous or something. Imagine kissing him few hours ago and your cousin is already booking to have sex with him. I wanted to be far from him. I’m not really strong enough to handle any of his problems , plus I know nothing about him. Same time I wish I hadn’t played that stupid stunt in his house telling him to stop stalking me.
” Ariel, I’m hanging around your house this weekend.” I chuckle when I remembered the time she chose to spend the weekend with us but ended up leaving because of my mom.
I nod and sigh. Alexa waved at Vickie and I before turning her back as she faced the door with Leslie.
” Who’s she ?” Vickie asks, referring to Alexa and my sister I guess.
“The one with the bleached blonde hair is my cousin. The other one is my older sister.”
“Yeah ? Your sister clearly doesn’t like you. I mean every one of her words carries sarcasm and hatred. Like she thinks she’s better.”
” Maybe she’s better. She’s pretty and sexy. She’s right though , Gray would never want a girl like me. I’m too plain.”
” It’s not like you like him.”
” That’s my second point. He’s too good to be true. Every single thing on heels wants him badly.” I scoff and turn around to clean a table.
.
That weekend, Alexa , Leslie and I sat at the dining table. I was bored upstairs so I decided to join them. I twirl my milkshake endlessly and play chess with them.
” What’s up with your Gray package ?” Leslie asks, drinking a cup of tea.
” Ooh. Shit , I missed the entire story. We hung out yesterday.” Alexa giggled and that made me freeze. I can’t believe Gray can be so taken , sleeping with any single awesome girl.
” What! What does he feel like ?” Leslie asks with so much eagerness. Asshole.
” He bangs good. He’s a megapiece.” I roll my eyes, getting bored of the conversation.
” Wow..” Leslie flush. She’s jealous. But why ?
” You’re okay ?” Alexa asked me.
I nod at once.” Yeah.”
” Of course she’s not. She wished she was the one being held captive underneath Gray Carter.” Leslie scoffed .
” Why do you find joy in making people feel inferior ?”
” How ?” She laughs.
I shake my head sideways and drink my milkshake.
” You know you’ll always wish to be underneath Gray , Leslie.” Alexa cut in.
” Why would you say that ?”
” Because you pretend too much. I mean you’ve been fucking and lying.”
I gulp an unknown lump and smirk to watch the unfolding drama.
” Alex..”
” Yeah. You know it’s disgusting when your parents keep on taking sides with you. Swearing that you’re a damn virgin when you lost that shit in highschool.” I choke on my milkshake and breathe.
This is stupid.
” You don’t have a right to judge me. You know nothing about me.”
” Yeah. Because you’re always painting Ariel black. Save your parents the embarrassment and tell them you’ve been giving blow jobs to boys.”
Leslie scoffs and frowns. Who knew she’s afraid of Alexa. They are almost the same age just that Alexa is a bit older by a few months.
” I didn’t sleep with Gray by the way. Just wanted to watch you freak out.” Alexa said and sip my milkshake.
” So he never called ?” I ask .
” Nah. Maybe he’s not interested in me. Doesn’t matter , just a taste of my lips and he’s definitely gonna look for me.” Alexa grin and wink. I release a deep breath I didn’t even notice I’ve been keeping.
” So , who’s ready for college ?” Alexa asks, nudging Leslie’s defeated self to life.
” It’s really not that cool. My mom wants us to stay with them.” I say.
” What the fuck ! A ride from here to college is about two hours. How are you guys gonna cope with that ?”
” Maybe they are not aware. Leslie, you should talk to them. We need to stay close to school. If not the school’s dorm , we could possibly get an apartment outside school.”
” They don’t want you to get a boyfriend.” Leslie scoffs irritatingly.
” So who controls a grown up lady?” Alexa asks sarcastically.
” Grown up ? The fact that she’s out of puberty doesn’t mean she’s grown up.” Leslie says and glares at me.
“Ariel , so when are you planning to fuckin rip out Leslie’s hair. The fuck girl..” Alexa rolls her eyes and shoots daggers at Leslie.
“What ! Why would you even tell her to rip out my hair ?”
“Because you fuckin annoy me bitch. You’re just like your mom.”
“Alexa, you won’t talk about my mom like that. I only told the truth. Ariel’s too naive and acts too annoying. The fact that she had something with Freddie doesn’t mean she had to fake being depressed because she wants our parents to have pity on her.”
“Seriously Leslie. I faked being depressed? The hell! What’s even your problem? Why don’t you just quit being a coward and say it to my face that you hate me because you’re jealous of me.” I talk back to her.
She’s acting too sassy and it’s eating me up.
“Go girl…” Alexa chuckled.
“Jealous of you?” Leslie chuckles and flicks her hair to the side. ” Boo, you can’t even afford me. We’re not even the same.”
“Yeah? And you’ve always had a long secret crush on Freddie and you wished he looked at you.” Alexa chuckles Insanely as she says.
I freeze at once and look up at Alexa.
“You liked Freddie?”
“Fuck girl, I don’t fuckin’ know what Alexa is talking about. Why would I like Freddie? He’s too nerdy.”
“Shut up. You called him hot when you got drunk at prom. For real Leslie? You suck. She’s like a honey bee, attracted to guys who’re loaded.”
“I hate it when you judge me Alex.” Leslie murmurs.
“And I hate it when you act all too goody. And you know the shitty part is when your parents act like they are from the sixties. All holy and god fearing. I might not be religious but trust me , your parents won’t even smell heaven’s gate and I’m gonna make sure I chase them to where they belong. Hell.” Alexa says and stands up to get a bottle of water.
I’m left alone with Leslie who won’t stop staring darkly at me. She acts like a witch who escaped from a mental asylum.
“It’s funny you liked Freddie all this while.” I said to her,
“I’m sorry to burst your bubble miss Ariel. I give no flying fuck about Freddie. I never liked him. You both suck and I’m glad to inform you that I look too good for him.”
“Then why lie about being a virgin ?” I ask her. She scoffs and gulps down her remaining tea.
“You think everyone is like you ? I’m sorry I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“So Ariel , you really don’t wanna talk about your mystery Gray ? Total stranger who drove you home at the club.” Alexa says walking back to the dining table. I sigh and play with my milkshake.
“It’s not important. I was drunk.”
“So how come you woke up with his sweatpants and t-shirt ?”
“His house help changed my dress because I don’t know..” I stutter.
“House help ? Is he rich ?” Alexa beams with a wide grin on her lips.
“I wish…” Leslie mutters and scoffs irritatingly.
“So what did you guys talk about ? He didn’t touch you right ?”
I sigh and shake my head sideways.
“Maybe he’s really nice. So basically you have never seen Gray Carter before ? Dude’s popular and fuckin rich.” Alexa says.
“Buddy has crowded her life with boring shit. You don’t even have a social media account..” that’s Leslie.
“Leslie , it’s my headache.”
“Ditch that. Let’s talk about college. Ariel found a major yet ?”
I sigh and nod. ” Yeah. Business administration.”
“Wow. We’re storming every fuckin party in college and clubs. Welcome to my new cousin freshman. I’m definitely gonna host a frat party.” She giggles and wink at me.
Leslie rolls her eyes and bites her tongue. What’s wrong with her?
“Nah. Ariel won’t like to party.” Leslie speaks up for me. Did I even ask her to talk ? Loud mouth.
“Why not. You’re gonna tag along with me. And I bet every hot ass nigga won’t even take their eyes off you. You’re pretty.” Alexa says and it’s silly that I blushed.
“Parties…” Mom says as she steps into the living room with dad beside her. Mom’s got a new job including dad and I’m grateful.
“Alexa.” Dad said as he eyes up Alexa. Great , world war 2 is about to take place.
“Have you started talking to them about going to parties with you ?” Mom asks with venom in her voice.
“Fuck me..” Alexa mutters.
“Mind your language. I’ve told you several times to stop coming over if you wanna talk them into getting a boyfriend.”
“Mom, calm down. We aren’t talking about boys. We were talking about college and dorms or maybe an apartment that we’d stay in once we go to college.”
“You’re not staying in any dorms or apartments. You’re staying here with us.” Dad retorts.
“Daddy , it’s a two hours drive from here to college. It’s too far and we can’t cope.” Leslie sighs and crosses her arms.
“Leslie no. I won’t even support that. Staying close to college will open Ariel more to the world. She’s gonna make me more carefree than she already is. Obviously she’s gonna get three more boyfriends and she will sleep around just the same way she did with that asshole Gray and Freddie.” Mom yells.
” So all this attitude is because you don’t want Ariel to have a boyfriend ? For fuck sake Ariel’s twenty.” Alexa scowl.
“Alexa , you’re gonna watch your tongue before I watch it for you.” Mom fires.
“You’re fuckin shitting me. You’re acting as if you married your husband as a virgin. Or should i start telling you the summary of your perfect life. How you met him in a club.”
“Alex..” Dad roars.
” Yeah , you want me to shut up now. This is the 21st century for heaven’s sake. You guys are supposed to be behind bars for even hitting a kid. Maybe I should even call the cops.”
“You won’t even dare. You’ve overstayed your welcome. Get out.” Mom says as she opens the door for Alexa to leave.
“Oh , should I leave ?”
“Yes , leave. And I’m calling Doreen to talk to you to stay away from my kids.”
“Kids. Leslie is also a child ? So your overprotective virgin who end up giving all the boys oral sex in school because she wanted to be popular is also a kid. Maybe I should yell on top of my voice and tell the world how you planned to hook up with…”
“Leslie don’t..” Dad raises his hands up, warning her to stop talking.
Alexa smirks and crosses her arms. God what are they even talking about ?
“Alexa , please, it’s enough.” Leslie cut her short.
“Leslie, maybe you need to shut up. Why don’t you tell them you had about thirty boyfriends in highschool before you graduated.” Alexa snapped at Leslie.
“Seriously..”
“Alex , stop telling lies about Leslie. You need to leave..” Mom points her finger at Alexa and motions her to the door.
“I ain’t leaving until you both stop whatever attitude you’re putting up. By Monday both girls will be starting college. Maybe you should do them good and get your clothes ready to be their roommate.” Alexa grins.
“Guys , please that’s enough.” I speak up this time.
“Ariel, you should shut up.” Mom yells on top of her voice as my heart skips to my feet.
I touch my heart and I can’t feel it anymore. I inhale and exhale sharply as I try to catch my breath. I can’t breathe.
“Ariel. Are you okay ?” Alexa rushed to stand by me as she grabbed my shoulders.
“Ariel , breathe..”
“I..” exhale..”I can’t breathe.”
“Shit , she’s having a panic attack.” Alexa cuss beside me as she tries to make me sit.
“Oh my God…” Mom whined and held my other arm.
I continue breathing in and out as I feel my lungs clutch against my chest. The world starts to spin and I can’t feel my feet anymore.
“Ariel , open your eyes…”
The world starts to distance and darken as I collapse to the fall and everything is void.