Ch. 61..65: Until I Met You Chapter 61-65
Chapter 61
Why’s he always doing this to me. I always stop thinking each time he’s around me. It’s like my brain just stop working automatically. He loves me and I love him too. But then I remembered what he is. Gray kisses me. I didn’t kiss back at first. He wraps his hands around my waist and presses me gently against the wall. I hopelessly wrap my arms around his neck and kiss back. Maybe I shouldn’t be kissing back right now.
I should be thinking about the mess he’s trying to get me involved with. And if I don’t back out now, then I can’t back out anytime soon. I stop kissing him. He stays still with his hands around my waist. I raise my hand and place my hand on his face. His eyes peel apart and they look into mine.
” We need to talk.” I say. He sighs and looks at me for seconds before nodding.
He lets go of me and tucks his hands in his jacket.
” Ask whatever thing you wanna ask , I’ll tell the truth.”
I nod and cross my arms. Where am I supposed to start from. There are a lot of things in my mind right now.
” Why didn’t you tell me? Why hide it?”
He looks around the apartment and runs his fingers through his hair.
” It’s not that easy.”
” And why’s that?”
” Because I thought it wasn’t the right time. I can’t just tell you I run a Mafia. You’re just gonna wake up in the morning and run away.” He sighs again.
I heave a deep breath. Thank God I switches off the cooker before coming here.
” What were you doing in Italy that day?”
” I got a job to handle. Some asshole ratted me out and i needed to sort his shit out.”
” Murder?”
” Murder.” He answers. When am I ever getting used to all of this. This is too hard to take in. I remembered i wanted a normal life once i resumed college but then , a really cute mystery man barged into my car. How can I ever forget that day?
” Why did you kill your father?”
He didn’t expect I’d asked that. He looks tired all of a sudden. He looks away from me and mutter something under his breath.
” He was an asshole , I told you.” He says.
” That didn’t explain anything Gray. Why did you do it? You said you were closest to him or was that a lie?”
” It wasn’t.”
” Then what happened? Vladimir told me how you cleared a man named Sinclair’s dirty deals and most times do his delivery. And you killed a lot of people to be on top so your father was part of those people too?”
He takes a deep breath and leans against the wall close to me.
” He was right. Sinclair was my father’s friend. They were close and my father was Sinclair’s right hand man. I was a part of his Mafia. I cleared the dirty deals and most times deliver their drugs. No one suspects a teenage boy with drugs actually. I wanted more. My father was a coward , he couldn’t build up his own organization and he’s just tied to Sinclair like a puppy. I hated calling someone boss and I needed to make my own money and i planned ahead…” he stops and takes a deep breath.
” Then Sinclair’s Mafia was American’s most powerful mob. He’s got a lot of men and clients. And then his biggest of them all was Harold. He was a Columbian. He made a deal with Sinclair for a large amount of narcotics and almost 50 million was involved with it.”
” Things got messier.” He turns to look at me.” Remember I said I make the delivery , I took the drugs to him that day after I killed the guy who was supposed to deliver them. I took the money and killed Harold. I made sure I leave no trace behind. Only my father knew about it because I told him about my plans. Sinclair discovered Harold was dead and he got furious. He didn’t get the money and his drugs either. My father ratted me out to Sinclair and…”
” You shot him.” I say and turn to look at him. He couldn’t meet my eyes and he just nods.
” You killed your father because he ratted you out?”
” I have to. He was a coward. He was supposed to support me since we were always close. Even when my mother threatened to leave his life because he was involved with the mafia , I didn’t leave. I always supported him, including the countless times he cheated. The grief of having a mistress and Freddie and the guilt of what he did , I had to kill him.”
I didn’t say a word. I pace around the room and cross my arms. Gray’s so much. I’m too innocent for him. All of this is too much. So his mother tried to leave his father too when she found out.
” Did your mother knew from the start he was involved with drugs.”
” She didn’t. It was when I turned fifteen she discovered and it was through Damon. Damon went to rehab actually because of his drugs intake. She blamed me for it because i knew about it and didn’t tell her.”
” Why did you not tell her?”
” Because I was also involved. I liked it and I loved the lifestyle. It was a choice I made when I was a teenager.”
” So it was when Damon left rehab he joined the army. Why not SWAT? I think their major jobs is to fight against illegal drugs.”
” I don’t know. We had issues when he knew i was with dad. Nobody knew I killed my father.”
” Till date?”
” Yes. I didn’t tell anyone. I flew out of town and came to New York that was how I started Summit. Or maybe I actually started it secretly before I killed my father. I just wanted to make sure Sinclair get out of the way.”
” You’ve done a lot of shit.”
” I know and I’m really sorry I didn’t tell you.”
” If no one knew you killed your dad , then who told Vladimir?” I ask.
” I don’t know. I bet he guessed that just to make me look bad in front of you.”
I turn my back against him and sigh. I really want a break from all of this. Maybe visit Miami with Alexa and my friends this weekend. It’s gonna be worth it. I need to be far from all of this heavy secrets. Now I’m wishing I didn’t ask in the first place. It’s better to be kept in the dark , than to carry this heavy secrets.
” Why did you do all of that? What you did to Sinclair was wrong. Your type of game is shitty and too dangerous.”
” That’s how the Mafia works , Ariel. You have to take out the people on top to be on top. That’s the ugly shit.”
” And you thought it’s nice to take out your boss and every other unlucky souls. Do you even have a soul?”
He sighs deeply.” I’m sorry. For everything that I’ve put you through. The problems, the trauma. Everything , I’m really sorry.”
” Sorry? Sorry won’t bring back my normal life , Gray. I lost my normal life the very day you barged into my car. You know most times , I wished i didn’t meet you. I wish we didn’t even cross parts. Maybe I’ll be concentrating in school and going to therapy so I can fight my depression. Not running from gun-men and mob people who wants to kill me because my so called boyfriend is a Mafia boss and he did a lot shit to a lot of shitty people. The fights never end Gray and you know it. But yet , you had to put me in between your mess. I got shot because of you.” I yell and turn to look away from him. He’s turn me into a mess. Maybe I’m the cause. I had time to back out from his world but I thought i could stick in because he’s unavoidable.
” You have a right to yell at me. Do whatever you want to do to me , i deserve it.” He says behind me.
” So what if I rat you out too?” I ask and turn around to look at him. He watches me closely with his hands in his pockets.
He stays quiet like forever before answering.” You won’t.”
I chuckle. He knows me too well. I bet I don’t even know myself that much.
” Why would you say that? What if I go to the CIA or maybe the SWAT team and tell them popular Gray Carter is a Mafia boss and he’s involved with narcotics. What you gonna do Gray?”
He push himself from the wall and walks slowly to my form. He stops in front of me and we’re so close. He raise his hands and tuck my loose strands of hair behind my ear. His forefinger seduce my neck with it’s slow trails. Gray lifts my chin to look at him.
” You won’t.”
” Why so confident?” I ask. I really wanna hear him say it. Tell me he’s gonna shoot me like his father.
” Because you care so much about me and you don’t wanna admit it. You love me , Ariel.”
I swat his hand off my chin and glare at him.
” I’m gonna call the cops and tell them that you’re a criminal.” I say.
” Why are you doing this? Why are you trying to step on my shoes?”
” Step on your shoes? I really wanna see what you can do when I tell on you. Cause I will Gray.”
He takes one last step and we’re breathing the same air.
” I dare you Ariel.”
” You know I will.”
” Then I will fuckin kill you.” He says with so much seriousness that my heart forgets to beat.
He shuts his eyes and opens them. He looks weak and crowded with lots of emotions.
” You know I will never hurt you. I love you too much to try.” He says with lots of emotions.
” Don’t you care about your father? Is it even worth it?” I inquire.
” Yes and yes.”
Jesus , he’s obviously a psychopath. He needs to visit a therapist.
I turn around and cross my arms. ” I need a break , Gray.” I bite my lip to stop me from crying. I made sure my voice doesn’t fail me.
I continue when he didn’t answer.” We need a break. I need time and space to process everything and I want you to grant me that request. I won’t tell anyone if that’s what you’re scared of. But I wanna be far from you for now. I need to breathe properly. This is too much to handle. I’m tired of being a bait to blood thirsty criminals who want you dead and I want you to leave me alone for now. Please.”
I hear him sigh behind me. I don’t really know what I did but I just wanna be away from him. I don’t know when , but, I’m not sure I’m getting on with him anytime soon.
” You’re breaking up with me?” He asks. His voice is so quiet and calm.
” Call it whatever thing you want Gray. I wanna be far from you. Far away from your mess. Far away from your world. I don’t wanna be in the middle of your crimes. Gray I can’t handle them. I really love you but I can’t. This is too much for me to handle. We need a break , Gray.” I turn to look at him. He looks so cold without emotions.
” Okay.” That was his last statement as he leaves.
Chapter 62
” You fuckin’ did what!” Alexa shouts.
She just returned from where ever place she went to and I told her what happened.
” You broke up with him? Why would you do that?”
” I didn’t break up with him. I just needed a break.”
” So what’s the difference?”
” There’s a difference. I still love him but I can’t fit into his lifestyle. It’s too much for me to handle. How long will I stop running?” I sigh and run my palms down my arms.
” Running? Ariel , you just hurt his feelings , you broke him.”
” You’re not getting it Alexa. I can’t keep up with this dangerous side of Gray. He’s the best thing that has ever happened to me , yes but…”
” You can’t accept his dark past and his dark world huh?” Alexa asks and crosses her arms. She chuckles and bites her bottom lip.
” I don’t mean to sound annoying, but you should stop being the hero here. Don’t try to be the good girl who’s trying to tame the bad guy. Why can’t you accept him for who he is and love him with your whole life. Why do you want the bad guy to change for you when you can actually love him with all his flaws. I believe partners stick together and fight and not run away like cowards.”
” You don’t get it. I…” I sigh and facepalm myself. Yeah , I wanted the break but now I’m the one hurting.
Alexa sighs and sits down on her couch.
” Come here.” She coos.
I lay on the couch and rest my head on her laps. My hair splays on her lap and she runs her fingers through my hair.
” Love is crazy. You need to sacrifice a lot of things for each other. I believe he sacrificed so much for you too. I just wanna let you know that , what ever decisions you make , it’s okay.”
” Thanks.”
” But , don’t keep too far from him. You guys are so fuckin in love with each other. I see no reasons in fighting over things like this. Okay I get it , it’s sort of hard to take in. And you’re that good girl who wanted to serve in a convent and you find yourself in a romance circle with the bad guy. That type of shit is really tough and hard to take in. To talk the worse , he even killed his father.” Alexa sighs.
” It’s really annoying. Why does it have to be a criminal. You know i actually never thought I would ever be in a normal relationship with someone not even Gray. Alexa he already stole my heart.”
Alexa smiles and runs her fingers on my hair.
” You wanna travel?” She raises her brows and smirks.
” Miami?”
” Yup. Since we couldn’t make it last week , we could check in this week. It’s gonna be fun and it’s gonna help you think.” She says. I dare not stay back or I’ll die of depression.
” Sure. I ain’t dropping this one.”
” That’s my girl. Now let’s go eat dinner. I’m sure the pancakes are already cold. Piper and Brandon are coming over for sleepover.” I sit up and follow her to the kitchen.
I sigh and sit on the stool. Alexa takes the pancakes as she microwaves them.
” We’re gonna discuss about you and Gray later. I’m not dropping that topic.” She says and I chuckle.
I pick up a cookie from the jar and take a bite.
” Did you ever withneesed any sort of fights when dating Massimo?” I ask Alexa.
” A lot. Including one that almost took my life.”
” And you stayed?” I ask and lean my elbows on the counter.
” I liked him. I really love him. When my parents found out I got involved with the mafia , they panicked.”
” Damn. Who wouldn’t panic? The guns, drugs and every other illegal things. They wanted to be sure you’re safe since Ace is out.”
” Yeah , true. But most times , love is crazy. It makes you do stupid things even if you’re gonna get hurt. My own opinion is, no matter the circumstances , you should stand by Gray. No one’s gonna take your life because Gray would be there for you.” Alexa says.
I shut my eyes and take a deep breath. I open them and sigh. This is too complicating. I can’t fit in. I’m not the bad girl everyone is scared of. I was the one bullied in highschool. How am I supposed to act like everything’s fine when I can’t breathe properly. They won’t stop shooting because they are all criminals. Vladimir is gone , so who’s gonna be next? Cage?
” Who’s in the house!” Piper screams from the living room as she walks to the kitchen with Brandon.
” Damn…” She sniffs the air and smiles.” I love pancakes.” She smiles widely and sits close to me. Brandon sits on the other side opposite us while Alexa drops the pancakes on two different plates.
” Hey guys.”
” Hi , Arie. Ready for vacation?”
I laugh and nod.
” You’ve been acting super weird these past days. Are you okay?” Brandon asks and picks up a cookie.
” Yeah. Alexa said you got the flu. Are you pregnant?” Piper grins and smirks.
” Guys , no. I’m not pregnant. I’ve got no flue either. I’m just sick , that’s all.”
Alexa raises her brows and swirls syrup all over the pancakes. She pushes my plate to me as I pick up two forks. I give one to Piper.
” No , I’m fine. Eat up while we plan Vacation.” Piper says.
I shrug and drop one fork as I begin to feast on my pancakes.
” What did Jamie say about your vacation?” Alexa asks Piper.
” Same thing everyday. He’s gonna missed me but he’s gonna endure and wait.” Piper chuckles.
” What about you Tinkerbell?” Brandon asks and grins.
” Tinkerbell?” Alexa asks as she looks between me and Brandon. Why would Brandon call me that.
” Your pendant. So don’t freak out.” Brandon utters.
” Oh that. Is that what Gray usually calls you?” Piper asks.
I really don’t wanna talk about Gray right now and they are not ready to drop it.
” Yes.” I say with a tight lip smile.
They smiles and nods.
Thankfully Brandon talks about school and I am grateful. We talked about winter and also Christmas even if it’s far. The semester is almost coming to an end. My phone beeps and it’s a text message from my mom. She said she’s coming over tomorrow and she really wants to speak to us. Same pregnancy rumor.
We scatter around the couches in the living room as we watch pretty little liars.
” So who do you think it’s A?” Piper asks as she stuff her mouth with popcorns.
” Maybe some weirdo who decides not to show his identity. But seriously who do you think it’s A?” I ask and look amongst the guys. Brandon huffs at our disturbance and he dramatically shoots himself.
” Guys , please let’s watch in silence.” Alexa shushes us.
Piper and I roll our eyes at the same time. We turn to look at each other as we laugh.
” Really.” Brandon speaks.
We zip our mouths and pretend to throw away an imaginary key. I curl my legs and watch the series in silence. My mind drift to Gray again. Why’s relationship always complicated. I wanna run into his arms and hug him and hold him all night but I guess I’m restricted. We watch the series till I fall asleep.
” So we’re gonna need sexy little bikinis and some lotions and sunscreen. That’s a must. I planned on shopping for new clothes once we reach Miami.” I hear Alexa’s voice.
I open my eyes and it’s morning. I’m the only one still sleeping.
” Oh , she’s awake.” Alexa says as they turns to look at me.
I run my fingers through my hair. ” God , morning guys.”
” Morning sunshine. I think your mom called.” Brandon says.
” Oh God.” I think she’s already on her way to the apartment.
” Thanks , Brandon. Alex , do you have any extra toothbrush.”
” Sure. There’s a bathroom down the hall. You’ll find one there.”
I smile and nod. I pick up my phone and turn to walk down the hallway.
” Do you think she’s okay?” I hear Piper asks.
” Yeah.” Alexa replies.
I sigh and shake my head. I open the door to the bathroom and shut it. What’s Gray doing to me? I lean both my hands on the edge of the washbowl and stare at my reflection on the mirror. I go through my missed calls and Gray didn’t call. Part of me liked the fact that he respected my decision. The other part hated the fact that he didn’t call. Truth is i expected him to call. I spread toothpaste on my brush and begin brushing my teeth. I wash my face when I’m through and my phone starts to ring.
I groan. I pick up my phone without looking at the dialer as I press it against my ear.
” Mom , I’ll be home soon.”
” Mom?” I freeze at the voice. I bite my tongue and blame my inner self for being so attached to him.
” Gray.”
” Tinkerbell.” He sighs on the phone.
My heart drop to my feet and I literally can’t think. I mean yesterday , I told him i wanted a break and he gave me the worst reply ever. OKAY.
” I missed you.” He mutters after a long silence. I look down at my fingers and look up at the mirror. I missed him too. I really wanna tell him that i missed him so badly and I wish he could adore my neck with lines of kisses and whisper his promises to my ears. But I didn’t tell him.
” Thanks.” I say.
He chuckles tiredly on the phone.
” You’re welcome.”
” Gray , look , I’m really sorry about how I spoke yesterday. But , I meant what i said. I wanna stay away from you.”
” I bet you’re doing just that. You’re not around me.” He says sarcastically. I blush and brush my hair with my palm.
” Gray stop joking about. I need to be far from you so i can think.” True. I can’t seem to think around him. He has stolen my senses and I can’t just avoid him.
” Okay. Have fun in Miami.” He says and before I can reply, he hangs up.
I sigh and go back to the living room. Piper and Brandon were cooking.
” Oh, here you’re. We were thinking on where to stay for the weekend. I suggested a beach house but Piper thought maybe a suite will be better.”
” A beach house is expensive , Alexa.”
” I don’t fuckin care. I need to make sure we have fun.”
” We can still have fun in a suite. Alexa , a beach house is expensive. I already budgeted on the food , I’ll handle that.” Piper says.
” I’m paying for the club we’re storming on Friday and Sunday. I have a beach house in a Miami.”
” You do?” We ask Alexa. She shrugs.
” My father bought it for me or let’s say it’s my possession and part of my inheritance even if he’s not dead. So food and shelter, check.” Alexa says proudly.
” What other expenses are we supposed to take?”
” I’ll pay for the clothes shopping.” I declare.
” Fuck, Mrs Carter.” They give me a ear deafening scream.
I roll my eyes at the last name.
” Did Gray give you his credit card?” Alexa asks as the guys watches me. I chuckle and shake my head sideways. I have made a lot of grand from babysitting Kennedy even if Gray won’t stop paying me. The money in my account right now can buy a house. Hopefully.
” Don’t worry guys , I’ll handle it.” I say and cross my arms.
” Fuck , girl. Aww , Brandon there’s nothing left.”
” Can I handle the beach side? I don’t wanna look left out. Since Piper is taking the food and refreshments then i could book for a swim in a hotel and also to visit the beach.”
” Damn , i already got that checked before , but don’t worry I’m giving it to you.” Alexa tells Brandon.
We chuckle.
” Guys , I need to rush home. My mom’s coming over today. I need to be at home.”
” Is everything okay? Your mom don’t visit for nothing.” Piper asks with concern. Alexa already knows why she’s coming. To confirm if I really committed an abortion for Gray.
” It’s fine guys. I’ll be back soon.” I wave at them and pick up my key from the coffee table as I leave.
I take the elevator and rush out of it. I slide into my car and drive into the busy road. Today is Thursday and tomorrow we’re traveling. I touch my forehead and sigh , I’ve been thinking too much. I park the car at the lot and get out. I walk inside the lobby and take the elevator. I press my floor button and it ascends. My phone buzzes. I slide the screen and look at my mom’s name. She just sent me a text that she already arrived. The doors slides open and I step out. I twist the doorknob to our apartment and I walk in.
I smell lasagna and garlic bread. I shut the door and walk inside.
” Hi kiddo. Mind joining us?” I drop my keys on the table and walk to the kitchen. Leslie glares at me. Now I remembered what she said to our parents. I feel like reaping out her hair extensions.
” Hi Mom.” I greet and sit on the stool across from mom and Leslie. They already arranged the food on the counter.
” Hi Arie. Where were you?”
” Alexa.”
She nods and sits down close to Leslie. Leslie picks up a fork as she starts eating.
” So how have you been?” Mom starts a conversation as she eats her bread.
” Fine. You can also go straight to the point and ask me about the pregnancy.”
” Ariel. Listen , I want you to understand that however I treat both of you isn’t partial. I wanted to make sure you both have a better life.” Mom says.
Leslie rolls her eyes and glares at me.
” Where you pregnant?” There. That’s what I’ve been waiting for.
” I don’t know.” I say.
” Leslie told me everything. How you got pregnant for Gray and he asked you to get rid of it. And you did? What happened to all the teachings in church? No sex before marriage. No abortions or even getting pregnant. Ariel, what happened to you! You went to college and started being wayward.”
” Wayward.” I chuckle.” Wayward seriously. I’m not pregnant ma and I was never pregnant. Leslie got dumped by her college sweetheart Hayden after she basically gave him a handjob in the living room. She got jealous of me and decides to bring the hate back. I don’t really know what she told you but I’m not discussing this issues.”
” Really Ariel? I got dumped?” Leslie snorts.
” Yes. And every night you keep on sneaking men into our house. Getting drunk and coming home with different men. You know Reid picked you up from a strip club as a one night stand. You thought since you couldn’t attract Gray , you decide on using his best friend. You thought he was gonna buy you a fuckin car and he got you pregnant. He dumped you and abandoned you , even called you a bitch to your own face. Why don’t you admit you’re a looser Leslie. You’re a goddamn looser. You knew Freddie was my best friend. You had a crush on him in highschool and you never told mom the truth. You knew I was raped but your jealousy made you laugh at me. Karma is gonna fuck you real hard , you dirty bitch.”
” How dare you.” Leslie stands up as she looks down at me in rage.
” Enough. Leslie would never sleep with an enemy’s friend.” Mom defends.
” Oh really? But I can?” I ask and laugh.
” You’re just a whore. You…” Leslie stops and touches her stomach.
” Leslie are you okay?” Mom asks at once.
” Yeah.” She waves it off. She opens her mouth to speak again but halts at once. She grips to her stomach and runs out of the kitchen.
” Leslie.” Mom and I chase after her. She runs straight to the bathroom at the end of the hall. We follow her as she squats close to the toilet and begins to throw up.
I widen my eyes and blink them. Hope it’s not what I’m thinking. She aborted it.
” Leslie , are you okay?” Mom rushes in as she holds Leslie’s shoulders.
” Yeah , I’m fine. Maybe I got the…” she throws up again. I scrunch my face and lean against the doorframe of the bathroom.
She throw up one last time and flush it. She stands up slowly and wash her mouth. Wow this isn’t the flu. I can’t believe she’s pregnant. She touches her abdomen and bite her lip.
” What’s wrong with you Leslie?” Mom asks.
” I don’t know. I’m…”
Mom touches Leslie’s forehead and she stops at once. She looks down at Leslie and scans her up and down. She turns around and walks out of the bathroom. I look at Leslie and her stomach before following mother.
” I fuckin got rid of you. Why are you still in my stomach.” I hear Leslie mutters.
Mom paces around the living room. She’s finding it hard to believe that her precious daughter is pregnant for Gray Carter’s druggie friend. Oh karma , take kisses.
” Mom…” Leslie calls.
” You’re pregnant?” Mom asks as she turns to look at Leslie. I slump on the couch and watch the show.
” I…”
” Oh my God. You got pregnant after all my teachings. So you were the pregnant one and you lied. Leslie what’s wrong with you!” Mom yells.
” Yes , I’m pregnant. I was pregnant and I got rid of it because I wasn’t ready to bear the shame. How am I supposed to know the baby didn’t get out even after i bled.” Leslie yells .
I bet Reid’s gonna be happy he’s expecting a child. A really stubborn one at that.
” Leslie what’s wrong with you! Why can’t you be like Ariel?”
What the heck is she talking about.
” Oh I should be like Ariel now.”
” Yes! Because she’s better than you. I brought you to college to go to school and not spread your legs apart for anything with a manhood. You’re a disgrace Leslie.”
” How’s it my fault? What type of mom are you? You act like you’re perfect. You cheated on dad even with all your fake life.”
” I cheated? Oh my God you’re such a fool. Because I cheated on your dad five years ago you thought it was nice to open your legs and do whatever thing you want. I tried to caution you but you’re this little slut i tried to mould into perfection. But you’re so dumb , really dumb. Who the fuck is responsible!” Mom yells even louder. So mom also swears. Damn, i wish I can hold them apart , hell no , we ain’t done. I wish there’s a popcorn.
” Leslie I said who’s responsible?” Mom yells.
” She won’t tell you. She’s ashamed. Its Mia Carter’s druggie son’s best friend called Reid. They met in a strip club.” I answer.
” Gray’s friend. You really slept with the enemy? You knew what transpired between your father and his mother five years ago and you still have to spread your legs for him. Because of what! A stupid car .”
Oh I get the logic. The cheating happened same year. Dad cheated first and mom found out. She felt betrayed and then her boss picked an interest in her and then they had sex. Wow. I love this story.
” Reid isn’t responsible.” Leslie burst out.
YOU. SAY. WHAT?
“I’m sorry, what did you say?” Mom asks.
” Reid isn’t the father. I lied. I couldn’t tell the real father. I was scared of being rejected. The day Reid and i had an affair the second time I was already pregnant.”
I blink my eyes and stare at Leslie with wide eyes. If Reid isn’t the father then who. Hayden?
” Leslie, who’s responsible?” Mom asks calmly this time.
” It’s…” she stutters. She’s already crying. I pity her.
” Leslie talk. Who got you pregnant.”
” My… it’s Lawson. My philosophy professor at school and he’s married with a kid.”
Oh. My. God!
Mom fainted at once.
” Mom..”
Chapter 63
Leslie and I sit my already conscious mom on the couch as she looks down at Leslie. Rage , anger and lots of emotions spread across her face. I sit on the single couch and stare at mom. Leslie stands at a corner with her hands cross.
” What were you thinking? Getting pregnant for your professor. You had to sleep with a professor Leslie. A married one with a kid.” Mom leans her elbows on her knees and holds her head.
” Is he aware?” Mom asks. Leslie bites her bottom lip and shakes her head sideways.
” He’s not aware?” Mom flares up. She stands to her feet and almost rushes after Leslie.
” Mom , calm down.” I hold her.
” You’re gonna suffer Leslie. We made sure you had a good life. I always advised you after I noticed you sleep around. We talked to you. But no , you’re this wayward freak who always wants a penis. Make sure you don’t come home for holidays or even Christmas. I and your father will stop paying your tuition fee and I hope your professor boyfriend will see you though college.”
” Mom , you can’t do this to me.” Leslie burst out.
” Really? You’re a disgrace Leslie. You brought nothing but disgrace to our family. Family we’ve been keeping it’s good name for a long time. I don’t want to see you and your disgrace of a baby around my house. You have the guts to ruin the family’s reputation. Don’t ever call me mom and I don’t want to see you around my house , you cheap slut.”
” Mom , don’t do this to her.” I say.
Mom ignores me and continues.” You’re not a part of our family anymore. I cut you out and I don’t want to see you around the house. Whore.” She picks up her cardigan and bag as she stands up.
” Mom. She can’t cope. She’s pregnant , mother.” I try to convince my mom. Maybe I’m not supposed to be doing this but I can’t stand suffering even if Leslie gave me that in hundred folds.
” Don’t worry Ariel , she will be fine. Maybe she needs to pick well before spreading her legs like a damn rumor. I bet he’s not gonna take you in because he’s got a wife and a child. I advise you don’t go knocking on his door to tell him about your stupid pregnancy if you don’t wanna get disgraced.” Mom looks down at Leslie in disgust as she walks out.
” Fuck.” I mutter.
Leslie breaks down as she cries. I watch her with so much pity. Maybe she deserves it same time she doesn’t deserve it.
” Leslie I…” She raises her forefinger up.
” Shut your mouth and mind your business. I don’t need your pity because it’s useless and fake. Don’t try to preach to me that you’ll talk to Mom and give me your terrible pity speech.” She wipes her eyes and sits on the floor.
The door slowly opens as Hazel walks in. She walks in slowly with her eyes all over Leslie as she shuts the door.
” So Reid wasn’t responsible?” Hazel asks at once. So she heard everything.
Leslie doesn’t reply but focus on the floor in tears.
” You stoop so low and slept with your professor without a fuckin condom. What the fuck is wrong with you? I thought we were friends , why did you have to lie to me?” Hazel asks.
” Fuck , I’m so screwed.” Leslie sobs more. ” How could I be so fuckin stupid.”
Poor thing.
” You’re fucked up Leslie. I’m just gonna leave.”
” Hazel wait , you can’t leave too.” Leslie stands up at once.
” The fuck girl, you lied to me. That Reid was responsible. You couldn’t even tell me the truth and you expect me to be here with you. Fuck it” she opens the door and walks out as she slams the door.
” Oh fuck…” Leslie screams and slouches on the couch.
” Leslie.” i call out to her.
” Leave me the fuck alone, you depressed fuck.” She yells at me and stands up to her feet as she walks away.
I puff out my breath and pick up my phone and car keys as I walk out of the apartment. I slide into my car and turn on the radio to help me forget about what happened. I need to talk to my parents especially my dad. He’s sometimes better than my mom . He listens sometimes and he’s a soft hearted person. Mom’s this African woman with a hot temper. She controls dad and makes the decision. It seems whatever thing she says stays and no one’s changing that.
I’d never thought mom would kick Leslie out of her life after everything. She supports Leslie. Assists Leslie. Loved Leslie more and would always believe any shit she says. Why did she have to kick out Leslie? So all this was just pretence. Pretends to believe every shit Leslie says, but why? I halt the car outside Alexa’s apartment and I step out. I shut the door and stalk inside the lobby. I’m tired as hell and I don’t feel okay. This is too much. Leslie is pregnant for her professor and she’s been cut out from the family. I need to speak to my parents after this vacation. If they don’t take her back , Leslie is gonna suffer. She’s already dropping out of college.
” Hey guys.” I smile as I shut the door behind me.
They are watching a movie and arguing at the same time. They stop arguing as they grins at me.
” What’s going on ?”
” We’re arguing over money heist.” Brandon answers for them.
Damn that series.
” I said Tokyo is the worst character ever because she’s self centered and rude. Annoying , too showy, and to top it all selfish. She uses your problems to laugh in your face.” Piper says.
I cross my arms and look amongst them waiting for another debate.
” You see. Piper is just a liar. I believe Tokyo is one of the best. She’s fearless.” Alexa protests.
” Fuck fearless…” Piper cuts in.
” Let’s be sincere , Berlin and professor is the best characters here. Tokyo or whatever is really shit.” Brandon says.
I smile and chuckle.
” Are you guys done?” I ask. They look at themselves as they shift their gazes to me. Joining them in this conversation, then we ain’t getting out of it. I really don’t watch it that much but if I had to pick the best characters then I’m choosing professor and Berlin. I don’t wanna argue with them either.
Suddenly they raise up their voices and starts arguing again. Their voices fills the living room and it’s so loud. I drop my keys and leave them to their argument. I go to the kitchen and sit on the counter to eat cereal , i really haven’t eaten anything. They made omelette and even meatballs. I drop the cereal and serve the omelette on my plate. Their argument hasn’t stopped yet and I’m enjoying it. I stuff meatballs in my mouth and pick up a fork and bottle water.
I eat and they are still arguing. I’m already tired of their nuisance. I drop the plate and wash my hands. I go to the living room and switch off the TV. I connect my phone to the speakers in the house and play a song on my playlist. They stop at once.
” You guys are gonna like this song.” I sway to the song as they relax.
God , so much for having friends.
” Did you really have to stop our argument this way?” Alexa asks.
I roll my eyes and sit in between Piper and Alexa.
” I have news and it’s bad.” I announce.
” Is it gonna stop us from traveling?” Brandon asks.
” It depends. You wanna hear it?” I ask and look at each of them.
” Okay.”
I turn down the volume of the music and sigh deeply.
” Leslie is pregnant.”
Silence.
Alexa don’t really look surprised , i already told her the truth. Brandon looks at Piper and then Alexa.
” Hayden got her pregnant?” Piper asks.
” It’s a damn long story. She got pregnant and she said Reid was responsible. Reid threatened her to get rid of it and she did. Today at breakfast, Leslie threw up after she lied against me that i got pregnant for Gray and he threatened me to get rid of it…”
” Wait , she turned the table around?” Brandon and Piper asks at once. Alexa still stays quiet. I sigh and nod.
” She threw up today and we discovered she’s still pregnant.”
” Oh my God…” Alexa squeals.” She’s still fuckin pregnant. I knew Reid got a bubblegum seed. It can’t easily get out.” She grins.
We turn to look at her. She’s a weirdo and act like who smokes weed sometimes.
” Reid isn’t responsible. Leslie lied.” I say.
Silence for minutes.
” What the fuck! She lied. What exactly is wrong with Leslie? Is she a psychopath?” Alexa asks.
” Why did she have to lie?”
” It’s obvious. Gray is Reid’s closest friend and maybe she could gain a lot from him. She wanted to prove a point to me and the world that she can also get loaded guys.” I explain.
” So who’s responsible?” They finally ask.
” Lawson. Professor Lawson.”
” Holy fuck.” They exclaims.
” No way. That man is too quiet and polite. He has a daughter and she’s thirteen.” Piper says. I have seen him but I know nothing about him. He doesn’t tutor me actually.
” Oh my God. Leslie fucked up real bad. What was your parents reaction?”
” They cut her out of the family.” I answer.
” Damn , baby Jesus. She deserves it big time. She’s fuckin annoying. If Ace is around, Leslie would be dead by now. He’s a fuckin crackhead worse than me.” Fact. Ace is worse. He doesn’t tolerate Leslie’s bitchy attitude at all.
” What’s gonna happen to her? I pity her.” Brandon asks.
” It’s easy. She’s gonna drop out of college. Move out of the apartment cause I’m gonna make sure you don’t renew the rent on the apartment. She’s gonna suffer and maybe move to the countryside because of shame and start farming.” Alexa says with a smug grin. She picks up her box of twizzlers and slip out one.
” Okay , that’s heartless Alexa.”
” Damn, when we were eighteen , close to prom and graduation in highschool , she fucked my boyfriend after I introduced both of them. Since then , i despise her. I fuckin hate traitors. Look at her, stuck between a fuckin child and a professor baby daddy in sophomore year. She’s just getting started.” Alexa replies and turn up the volume of the music. Drake’s ‘toosie slide’ plays next as Alexa stands up and begin dancing.
She picks up the bottle water from the coffee table and raises it upwards.” To Leslie.” she cheers.
Brandon, Piper and I stare at in awe. Did she really have to make a toast. I understand the fact that Leslie made a lot of bad decisions and let jealousy lead her but she deserves better. She fucked up yeah and I get it , she wanted better. She wanted to feel love –In a slutty way.
” Well no one wants to cheers. Thanks to Drake for toosie slide.” She opens the water and drinks from the content.
” Damn. I love you karma.” Alexa mutters.
.
The following morning , Alexa’s loud voice wakes me up. She’s always too loud. We’re driving to Miami today and I’m still in bed.
” Ariel wake up.” Alexa shouts my name. She’s a damn lunatic.
I get up from the bed and saunter to the bathroom down the hall. I think her bedroom is the only bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. The remaining two rooms share the bathroom down the hall. I wash my face and brush my teeth with the extra toothbrush. I go back to the kitchen to see Brandon helping Alexa cook. Piper’s watching TV. It’s actually a yoga class on tv. I roll my eyes and lean against the doorframe of the kitchen.
” You’re awake. So I’m thinking if we’re gonna drive to Miami then we’re thinking about using your car.”
” Can we drive to Miami? Don’t you think it’s gonna be too far.” Piper says and I nod. That’s like a thousand miles.
” Fine… we’re flying. Not a private jet though , we’re using an airplane.”
The doorbell rings. I roll my eyes and walk to the door. I look through the peephole and I couldn’t believe it’s her. I twist the doorknob and open the door. She looks really pale. Maybe she cried a lot last night because it’s obvious on her face.
” Leslie.”
” Hi.” Oh! her voice is croak.
” What are you doing here?”
She fiddles her fingers and looks down. I blink my eyes and hold her hand to bring her in.
” No please , I can’t. I need your help , i want to talk to you private.” She plea.
” Ariel , who’s at the door? Oh… Leslie.” Alexa appears beside me. I turn to look at her and she’s grinning. Good God let her keep her mouth shut.
” I heard you’re still pregnant after you tried to killed the baby and professor Lawson is the father. Jeez…” Alexa says with a big smile.
” I’m sorry. She…” I try to speak.
” It’s fine.” Leslie chews on her bottom lip and sob.
” Damn , Leslie. Hayden wasn’t enough and you wanted more.” Alexa chuckles. Leslie couldn’t meet our eyes.
” Alex, that’s enough , please.” I say.
” Whatever. Don’t bring her in here.” Alexa warns me and go back to the living room.
I look back at the living room. How could Alexa say that? I turn to look at Leslie and she’s trying to muffle her sob. I sigh and step outside and shut the door.
” Ariel , I need your help.”
I cross my arms and motion for her to go on.
” You know mom cut me out of the family because I ruin the family’s reputation…” she Inhales sharply and avoid my gaze.
” I called Lawson and told him i was pregnant. He denied it. Ask me to get rid of it and forget about whatever thing we did. He said he can’t accept whatever thing I’m carrying because he’s married and he doesn’t want me.”
” But why your professor?” I ask.
She sighs.” I don’t know. Maybe because I wanted someone older.”
” Like father, hmm?”
She bites her lip and keeps quiet.
” I visited the hospital to get rid of it. The doctor warned me not to try or I might have complications.”
” Why did you have to get rid of it again? Haven’t you tried enough?”
” I can’t keep up. That’s why I am here. I don’t wanna drop out of college. What am I supposed to do with myself. Mom already said I shouldn’t come to the house and I’m pretty sure dad already agreed to it. You’re my only savior Ariel.” She sob as tears slide down her tears.
” What about Hazel?”
” She’s still angry at me. I can’t ask her to talk to Mom. You’re the only one who can help. Please Ariel…” she drop to her knees and that caught me off guard.
” Leslie please stand up.” She shakes her head sideways and holds my hand.
” Please Ariel. Beg mom to take me back. Ariel i can’t cope, i’m broke. She ceased my card and freezed everything. I don’t know what to do anymore. I don’t wanna drop out of college and I can’t cope with a baby without a family. Ariel please help me. If I leave the apartment I have nowhere to go. He doesn’t even want me or the baby. Please beg mom , please Ariel, help me…” She burst out crying as she buries her wet face on my stomach.
Damn this is unbelievable.
Chapter 64
” Ariel don’t tell me you’re gonna talk to your parents. She couldn’t develop the decency to apologise for all the wrong things she did to you. I’ve been tolerating her shit for too long. Leslie deserve to taste the bad side of life.”
I sigh and sit on Alexa’s sofa. After Leslie left , Alexa decides it’s nice to drag me to her room so we can talk about Leslie. I promised her I was going to talk to my parents. I really planned to before she even got here.
” Alexa , she’s gonna suffer.”
” I’m not saying you shouldn’t help. But let her taste suffering first. I want her to feel all the bad shit she did . She couldn’t even apologize for the things she did to you. She couldn’t let go of her ego because of what? She was jealous of you. She bullied you, lied against you and even made you feel vulnerable and to top it all , she enjoyed your pains. Now what, your parents cut her out and she comes running to you because you’re this nice girl who always want people to be happy. Leslie don’t even deserve to be happy.”
” The semester is almost out and Christmas is close. By next year , the rent on the apartment is gonna expire and I’m certain, my mom won’t even renew the rent because of Leslie. I can’t kick her out either so I’ll have to renew the rent myself.”
” No , you’re gonna move out and Leslie should get a job. She’s fuckin lazy. She needs to enjoy motherhood. Breathe sister , Leslie isn’t dying. Maybe your mom might pity her and ask her to come back to the family.”
I shake my head and sigh. My mother would never. I don’t even know what to say. Except my father decides to act like a father and orders my mother to bring Leslie back or else, Leslie isn’t getting anything.
” She’s still gonna talk to your mom though. You know they are sisters , they listen to each other.” I say.
” Then I’m gonna call my mom and tell her not to dare. The fuck! I don’t wanna talk about Leslie. Go get ready , we’re leaving soon.” Alexa smiles and walks out of her room.
I lean my elbows on my knees and facepalm myself. I run my fingers through my hair and get up. I had to switch off my phone because of Gray. I take my bath and get dressed. I pick up the things I’m gonna need and zip my bag. I brush my hair and tuck some strands behind my ear. I sigh and look at my reflection. I feel my family is broken and we’re already tearing apart. I can’t even imagine what’s going on in my parents house right now.
I hang my bag and go to the living room. They are all ready. I hope by Sunday we should be back because I’m not planning to skip class on monday including work.
.
****
At the airport, they scan our IDs and luggage before we take them back. I sit close to the window after keeping my bag. Alexa sits next to me. Piper and Brandon already take the other sit and Piper is already reading a book. The plane already left the ground and we’re flying.
Truth is , i really don’t know why I’m traveling. I am trying to avoid Gray or maybe learn to live without him but it’s so imposibble because I already zoned out on the music playing through my earbuds. I can’t live without him but i need to try. He’s everywhere in my head, even my brain. I take a deep breath and shut my eyes. I want to call him , tell him I missed him but i just can’t. I can’t fit into his world.
” Ariel.” Alexa pokes my shoulder. I remove my earbuds and turn to look at her. Piper and Brandon already fell asleep.
” Are you okay? Are you thinking about him again?”
I sigh and nod.
” You’re so silly. Then why don’t you just call him? You know you can’t break up with him. You’re so vulnerable around him.”
” It’s crazy, i just want a break. Break from running away from gun-men and hitmen, plus drug dealers and arms smugglers.”
” How did you know all that?” Alexa asks with a grin. So funny.
” You’re silly. You know who I am with.”
” And you can’t even shoot a gun. Fuck me.” She retorts. I scoff.
” Can you even shoot a gun?” I ask her.
She turn to look at me and laughs quietly.
” Before i dated two drug Lord’s , I sold weed in highschool.”
” You did what?”
” You heard me sweetheart. I just love the bad side of life. I was in tenth grade. Ace was also involved too. I wanted more cash and I caught him that day, he was smoking weed in his bedroom. I said i was gonna rat him out if he doesn’t tell me who sold him weed. It’s not like I wanted to smoke them , I wanted to sell , just like him. That’s how it all started. I shot a fuckin gun Ariel. The world isn’t safe so you need to have one.” She tells me.
I breathe out and lean myself into the comfort of the seat. I have a lot of strangers in my life. Gray and Alexa.
” What you thinking?” Alexa breaks the three minutes silence.
” You selling weed and shooting a goddamn gun.” I say. She chuckles.
” Yeah , yeah, whatever. Your boyfriend is an international drug smuggler , you should get used to that and learn how to shoot a damn gun. You’ll thank me later.” She rolls her eyes and shuts them.
I exhale and put back my earbuds. I look back at Piper and Brandon , they are still sleeping.
The plane slows down after several hours as it comes to a stop. We pick up our bags as we step out. I look around the airport and it’s crowded. We walk outside and I breathe in the warm air.
” Damn..” Piper mutters.
” Come on guys.” Alexa leads the match to a blue Ferrari across the road. A man leans against the car with sunglasses.
” Alexa?” He asks her once we reach him. She smiles and nods.
” Here.” He gives her a key and she takes it.
” Thanks.” She tells him.
” See ya around.” He adjusts his suit jacket and leaves.
” Your boyfriend?” Brandon asks.
” No , I rented this car and probably he works for the company who rent cars. We’re gonna need this for the weekend.” She giggles and slides into the driver’s seat.
” Hop in ladies and gentleman.” I roll my eyes and enter the passenger seat.
Piper squeals and she takes the backseat with Brandon. Alexa pushes a button and the sunroof opens.
” Your seatbelt , cause I’m a crackhead driver.” She says and ignites the engine.
She’s right cause the speed was terrible. My hair flies to different direction because of the breeze that accompanies the speed. I open my bag and bring out a hairband to hold my hair still. I lean my head on the window sill as I stare at every single building and cars.
” Where are we visiting today?” Piper ask from the backseat.
” The store. We getting new clothes.” Alexa replies and nudges me with her shoulders.
Piper and Alexa sing to Tinashe’s ‘2 on’ from Alexa’s playlist. I already zoned out with their loud singing. Alexa slows down the car close to the gate. She presses the buzzer outside and the gate opens. She drives inside and parks the car in the garage. I sigh and get out of the car with the others.
” Wow. Is this the beach house?” Brandon asks.
” Yup. Come on.” Alexa says and walks ahead of us.
” You’re being awkwardly quiet.” Brandon whispers.
I turn to look at him and shrug. Piper already rushes after Alexa and they are not in sight.
” Are you okay?” He asks as we climbs the steps.
” Yeah. I’m sick.” I lie.
” Take any medications yet?”
I smile and nod and open the door. Brandon steps inside with me.
” Thanks Brandon , I’m fine. You’ve been awkwardly quiet yourself.” I tell him as I drop my bag.
Alexa and Piper were already at the backyard staring at the beach.
” I’m just thinking.” He chuckles as we step on the sand.
I cross my arms and nod.
” So , do you guys like it?” Alexa asks as she stares at Brandon and i.
” Yeah.” We say in unison.
” Damn. This place is pretty. I can’t wait to visit the beach. It’s like I’m in Hawaii.” Piper emphasizes.
” Let’s get settled and order for food. We can tour later since it’s afternoon. We’re visiting the beach tomorrow.” She says and walks ahead of us.
I slump on my temporary bed and look up at the ceiling. Damn Gray for making me this way. Weak and I’m missing him terribly.
” Who’s hungry?” Alexa shouts from the living room.
I don’t answer but stay quiet. My door swiftly opens as Alexa peeks her head inside. She grins and walks in as she shuts the door.
” Are you okay? Or are you horny?” She smirks and crosses her arms.
” Shut up Alexa.” I chuckle.
” You look like someone who’s sexually frustrated. Do you need a hot massage? Cause we’re gonna visit the spa if you don’t mind. Or maybe I can call Gray right now and tell him you’re seriously sick and you can’t walk. He’s gonna be here in less than a minute.”
I smile and sit up.” Alexa , I’m fine. I just miss him , that’s all.”
She nods and sits next to me.
” What can I do to help?” She asks and tucks my loose hair behind my ear.
” Let’s go to dinner and maybe we can visit the store or the spa. That’s a really great idea.” I say and smile brightly.
” Let’s get out of here.”
…..
♪Bitch better have my money♪
Piper and Alexa as usual sings to the song from her playlist. The bass from the stereo takes over the small space of the car. God I can’t even feel my ears right now. Brandon goes through his phone and rolls his eyes at Alexa and Piper. I look at him through the rearview mirror. Our eyes meet as we laugh at their poor performance.
Alexa slows down the car as she parks in front of an Italian restaurant. We get out and the valet man takes the key. I look around the restaurant and this place is fancy. Piper’s gonna pay a lot today. Since her budget is food and refreshments. A lady greets us and takes us to a table. Piper and I sit across from Alexa and Brandon.
” Is that a twizzler?” Piper asks Alexa who just bring it out of her bag.
” Yeah. It calms down my sexual frustration.”
” You’re sexually frustrated?” Brandon asks.
Alexa rolls her eyes.” I’m horny. Hmm…” she touches her neck and giggles. I roll my eyes and Brandon laughs.
” I’m not excluded.” Piper adds.
A waitress approaches us to take our orders. We order for italian dish, most that I’ve not eaten before.
” Damn , someone’s checking Piper out.” I mutter.
They dart their heads to the table at the end of the restaurant. A guy with well tailored suit winks at Piper obviously.
” Damn , I’m getting laid.” Piper mutters under her breath.
Alexa chuckles. The waitress returns with our food as she place them on our table. She smiles politely and leaves.
” I heard they cook good food.” Brandon says and picks up a fork.
” Yeah. This is one of the best italian restaurant in Miami.” Alexa answers.
” Been here before?” Piper asks briefly looking at the stranger who won’t stop staring at her either.
” Yeah. Thrice I think. My mom and I. Me and my ex boyfriend came here twice.”
” Ex boyfriend that we know?” I ask and grin. The guys chuckles as Alexa shakes her head sideways .
We talk and eat and Piper won’t stop eye-flirting with the stranger. The waitress comes back with the bill and Piper gives her her card as the waitress leaves.
” I don’t know if you forgot Piper but you’re dating Jamie.” I say. She shrugs and drinks her wine.
” Yeah. Jamie is in New York and I just want a weekend fling. No harm in trying. Right Alexa?”
” Yeah. She said they are not in love.” Alexa says.
” So, it’s like you’re gonna hurt him if he finds out.” Brandon speaks up.
Piper rolls her eyes and smiles.” It’s just a fling. A weekend fling.” She protests and Alexa nods. Yeah , she doesn’t like nerds , I get it.
The stranger stands up and walks to the restroom direction.
” Alright. We understand, go to him.” I say as Piper giggles. She drinks her water and smiles at us before leaving.
Two men walks into the restaurant as they sits at the end. A bit far from ours.
” Can I take this?” Brandon asks waving his ringing phone at us.
” Sure.” Alexa says. He smiles warmly and walks outside to take his call.
” Damn. De Luca is here.” Alexa mutters above the rim of her glass as she drinks her wine.
” Who the hell is that?” I ask and lean forward.
” Cage’s father. He’s the one with the blue suit.” She says and sit back her glass. I turn to look at the two men and they look deep in their conversation. De Luca or whatever look ruthless , really a Mafia boss.
” And the other?”
” Sinclair Daxton.” Damn. This same man again. Whom Gray betrayed and outsmarted him. Also same man they believe I look like.
” Remind me how you know this people? It’s like you know every single criminal in the entire world.”
” I told you i dated Massimo. A Sicilian Mafia boss and it’s an ally to the Italians. I also had sex with Vladimir , so you get it. I’ve also attended their Mafia party once. It’s usually occupied with lots of mafia bosses around the world. It’s like a ball , they are throwing one this year. Get ready to accompany Gray.” She says and winks at me.
I sigh and drink my wine. I’m not willing to attend any dumb party and if I can remember , Gray’s mother’s birthday is around the corner. I turn to look at these men as they slowly turn their heads to look at me. Sinclair’s eyes falls on my form and for some reasons I freeze. He furrows his brows at me. Cage’s father smirks as he whispers something to Sinclair.
” Alexa .”
” Huh.” She replies. I think she feels the tension. Something isn’t right about the two of them. I sit up and try to look away from them. But I can’t , i can’t just look away , i don’t even know why. They talk some more and Sinclair stands up.
” He’s coming…” I mutter to Alexa.
” Let’s get out of here…”
Chapter 65
” Okay, can someone tell me why you guys left the restaurant just like that?” Piper asks from the back seat of the car as we drive to the store.
Brandon cross his arms as they stare at us. Yeah , that was a bit weird. I couldn’t even look into his eyes because they were just looking into my soul. His eyes sparks in recognition and a glint of emotions that I barely could decipher. I look at Alexa as she turns to look at me. She smiles awkwardly and shrugs as she steers the wheel like a maniac she is. She’s obviously a crackhead driver like Gray.
” Some weirdo was staring at us awkwardly , so we had to leave.” Alexa answers.
” Some weirdo? Staring? I mean why?” Piper asks.
” I don’t know. They look wealthy and unpredictable. We weren’t ready for any shitty games and we left.”
” What shitty game?” Brandon asks this time.
” I don’t know guys. They look weird.” Alexa answers and exhales.
” What’s up with your restroom hookup?” I change the topic. I look at Piper through the rearview mirror and her cheeks already flushes. She rolls her eyes and bites her lip.
Brandon chuckles and looks out the window.
” Sup Piper…” Alexa calls out and grins at her through the rearview mirror.
” Okay , fine, we did nothing cause I freaked out at his boner. Fuckin hell. He wanted us to hook up this Sunday and I actually thought about what Ariel said…”
” What did I say?” I smirk and turn around to look at her.
She sighs.” Jamie.” She slyly smiles and picks on her nails.
” I thought you said you’re not In love with Jamie.” Brandon retorts.
I chuckle with Alexa.
” I know okay. But we’re literally in a relationship and it’s unfair to cheat.”
” How come you didn’t think about that before running after his boner to the restroom?” Alexa asks.
” Shut up , you advised me.” Piper huffs and rolls her eyes.
” Yeah , yeah, you said you wanted a weekend hookup and i talk you in. I see nothing wrong with that.” Alexa defends and dance to Justin Bieber’s ‘Intentions.’ playing slowly from the stereo.
” Fucking bitch.” Piper hisses and scowls at Alexa.
” Whatever. You’re still hanging out with him this weekend. You horny fuck.” Brandon says and we laugh.
” Seriously , I thought this Miami weekend is for us. Like no hook-ups or weekend sex.” I say.
” Boom. Piper didn’t think about that.” Alexa says as she sways to the song.
” Okay , can someone tell Alexa to put her hand on the damn wheel. Bitch the speed is deadly and I’m too young to die.” Piper says.
Alexa squeals and throws her hands in the air.
” Alexa , hands on wheel please.” I tell her.
” Whatever, scaredy cats.” She says and slows down the car. She parks the car in front of the store as we get out. Alexa pushes a button and the sunroof closes.
I look around the busy city. The tall buildings and fancy cars. This looks like New York. She gives the valet man the key and we walk in. Dresses on mannequins decorates the store. A tall brown skinned girl walks to us as she greets politely. She leads us to a closet covered with dresses. Piper giggles with Alexa as they scamper through the wares.
I roll my eyes and rub my temple. I’m really not in the mood for shopping. That awkward meeting with Sinclair is never getting out of my head anytime soon. I look at my phone for a missed call but I got none. You know it’s funny sometimes I wished Gray would call. Like i always want to call him so that I can listen to his voice. Brandon stuck his hands in his pocket at the end of the store and mutters ‘women’ as he takes a seat.
” Ariel , you ain’t buying?” Piper asks as she and Alexa turns to look at me.
” Not really. I’m fine guys.” I shove my hands in my hoodie pockets and stalk to Brandon who look busy with his phone.
” Damn.” I breathe out and sit next to him.
” You’re okay?” He asks.
I sigh and rest my head on his shoulders. I nod slightly and shut my eyes. Maybe I shouldn’t have suggest this weekend Miami trip if i was gonna end up thinking about Gray. I look like a sad wife whose husband ran away. Brandon wraps one hand around my shoulders and stroke my hair. I smile and snuggle into him.
” Seriously Ariel.” I hear Alexa’s voice. I puff and and open my eyes.
” I thought we planned to shop together. What’s up with you two? Brandon did you get a heartbreak?” Piper asks.
” Fuckin hell. We took a long trip and it has really worn me out.” Brandon answers.
I smile.” Credit card?”
They scoffs. I open my clutch and give Alexa my credit card. She takes it and drag Alexa to a corner. Brandon and I talk for several minutes and they won’t stop trying out several dresses. Damn, I’m bored. I look down at my phone , not a single call from Gray. Why do i want him to call me so badly. Each time I close my eyes , all i could think of is Gray and just Gray. He has finally turn to my addiction and I can’t get him out of my head. Finally, Alexa returns with Piper with each of them holding three separate bags. Great , I’m going broke.
They grins as she gives me my credit card. I take it and we get up to leave.
.
••••••
” Damn…”
I remove my sunglasses and look around the beach. Obviously a lot of people visit Miami today because the beach looks crowded.
” Come on. I’ve seen a spot.” Piper calls out to us as she walks ahead of us. Brandon goes to the bar to get us drinks. I spread my towel on the sand below my umbrella. I remove my shirt and lay on the towel. Piper lay next to my right while Alexa sleeps on the left.
” Okay. This is fun.” I say and we giggles.
” Where’s the sunscreen?” Alexa asks.
I point to the bag close to Alexa. She opens it and brings out the sunscreen. She asks me to to help her apply on her back. I press the sunscreen on her body and massage it on her back.
” Piper you need some?”
” Thanks, babe. I’m good.”
I give the sunscreen to Alexa and motion for her to apply on my back. I lay on my belly as she rubs the sunscreen on my back. She rubs down to my back and smack my butt before covering the bottle.
” Silly.” I mumble and sleep on my back as i stretch my body on the towel.
” So what’s gonna happen once we go back to New York?” Piper asks.
” Simple , we gonna read for exams all night.” Brandon says and rolls his eyes at us.
He gives us our drinks and we sit up. I fold my legs and glance around the beach. My phone rings and I look down at the dialer. Gray. I stand up and excuse the guys to answer.
” Gray.”
” Seriously , a white bikini? Why did you have to dress that hot?”
What the! I look around the beach and I’m pretty sure Gray isn’t here. Did he fly down to Miami. The sea breeze made my hair fly to different directions as i stuck it behind my ear. Just his voice and I’m wishing he’s here. I’m fucked up already and i don’t mind.
” Don’t tell me you’re in Miami.”
” What if I am in Miami?” And i could literally feel him smirking right now.
” You’re not in Miami , are you?”
” I’m not.” He sighs. ” Look at your right.”
I look at my right as Nick waves at me with his right hand that’s holding a beer.
” Really? A spy?”
” Yeah. I wanna make sure some dickwad don’t ask you out.” He says on the phone.
” Seriously. Why did you have to ask Nick to look after me?”
” Not just Nick. There’s Spencer at the bar and Toni too.”
” And who the hell is Toni and Spencer?”
” Breathe. I just wanna make sure you’re safe. I like your bikinis though. You look hot. And it has to be white.”
” You said you’re not in Miami, Jamal. How did you know what I’m wearing?”
” I’m staring at you right now. Nick sent me a photo.”
” What!” I turn to look at Nick and he winks at me.
I stomp my feet on the sand and walk to his direction.
” I thought we agreed on something. I’m still angry at you.”
” I know. And I’m really sorry.” He says and hangs up.
I flare and cross my arms as I stand in front of Nick.
” Lucifer.”
” Hi , Mrs Carter.” I cringe at his choice of last name for me.
” What are you doing here?” I ask him.
” Checking on you. I need to be sure you’re safe or Gray’s gonna cook me for breakfast.” He shrugs and smirks.
” Nick.” Alexa says from behind me. Nick and i turn to look at her as she smiles at Nick. Yeah, crazy sparks.
” Damn. Those bikinis.” Nick says as he bites his bottom lip checking out Alexa. She’s wearing a red bikini while Piper choose to go with black.
” What you doing here?” She crosses her arms.
” Looking out for her majesty.” He motions to me.
Alexa nods and smiles at me. I scoff and walk out of their flirty conversation. I dial Gray’s number and he’s not picking up. I seriously don’t know why I called back but deep down i just wanna listen to his voice. I tuck back my loose strands of hair behind my ear and go back to Piper and Brandon.
~GRAY~
I light a cigarette and stare at the photo Nick sent me. Now I wished I was with her , to probably cover her naked body which is supposed to be seen by only me. The white bikini bottom hugs her skin and she looks irresistible. The thought of some horny fuck face wooing her irritates me. I couldn’t risk her safety and I had to send Nick and the others to look after her.
It’s nearly a week after her declaration that i should stay away from her and I’m missing her badly. This past week was terrible for me. I feel like a high school dork who got dumped by the hottest girl in school. Love is so fuckin annoying. I tried to fight the feelings but I couldn’t. She’s gonna be the downfall of me and i don’t really mind. I’m an asshole. Probably a big asshole who don’t even deserve her. I feel selfish for putting her in between my mess. Mess that i tried to fix but yet nothing’s happening.
I remembered what happened years ago. How I fucked Sinclair up and lived under the shadow for a year. Running and hiding from rivals. I had to hide underground and return whatever thing I took from him before he willingly left me. I’m such a fucker. Like I usually fuck people up and now I had to spoil everything with Ariel.
I aggressively toss the half smoked cigarette on the ashtray and remove my tie. I throw it on my couch and walk out of my room. I need to sort out Sarai. She’s been snooping around for too long. She walks in with a file as she smiles. Fuck , I hate her smile. Reid appears from the kitchen with a pipe in his lips as sarai gives me the files. I hand it to Reid and grabs her wrist.
” Um , is everything okay?” She asks as she walks behind me.
” Yeah. Need to tell you something.” I tell her as we take the stairs to the basement.
Reid follows behind slowly. We climb down the stairs and the basement as usual looks dark except for the white bulb that illuminates half of the basement and it looks a bit bright. Sarai turns swiftly to look at me. Fear is written all over her face. She knows what happens in the basement. Torture.
I pull her to stand in front of me. Manny place a chair in the middle of the room and she panics.
” Breathe.” I tell her and tuck her blonde strands behind her ear.
” What did i do?”
” Nothing.” I say to her and gently grab both her hands behind her back. She tries to fight it and i glare at her.
” Don’t fight it Sarai. I don’t wanna hurt you , don’t let me change my mind.”
She sobs silently and nods. Manny gives me a handcuff and I take it. She tries to panic again. I walk her to the chair and make her sit.
” Look at me. Do you trust me?”
She blinks her eyes and looks at me. She nods once and breathe in sharply. Damn, how dare she trust me? I look into her eyes and cuff her hands behind her and cuff it against the chair. She yelps in fear. I lean both my hands on the armrest and look down at her.
” What did i do?”
” Nothing. I’m gonna ask you some questions and you’re just gonna answer. Can you do that for me?”
Her breathing is rapid as she nods.
” Good. How did you meet Reid?”
” What! Seriously , Gray.” Reid says as he scoffs.
” I’m not talking to you , Reid. Sarai, how did you meet Reid?”
She twists her lips before answering.” Through Meghan.”
I nod and look at Reid. ” Did you fuck Meghan , Reid?”
” You shouldn’t be asking me such questions.”
” And I’m asking you and you’re gonna answer. Did you fucked Meghan or not !” I yell at him.” I thought I made rules. No sexual relationship with an employee and you had to sleep with Meghan.”
He scoffs and glares at me.” You know it’s irritating when you try to treat like Kennedy.”
I roll my eyes and look at Sarai.
” What’s your relationship with Meghan?” I ask Sarai .
She sobs silently and blinks her eyes. Her fake lashes flutter.
” I know she’s your girlfriend. I thought you were both straight. How long have you guys been dating?”
” A year.”
” A whole year.” I sigh and lean both hands on her chair.
” Why did she ask you to work for me? If I could remember very well , Reid brought you to me. And you Reid, why did you bring her to me and advise me to take her in?”
” Are you interrogating me!”
” Yeah. That’s exactly what I’m doing. Where did you find her?” I ask Reid.
” If you wanna ask me some damn questions , don’t do it in front of her or even Manny. I’m not your worker, Gray. I’m your friend.”
” Then get out. Leave , Reid.”
He bites his lip and walks out of the basement. I look at Manny who crosses his arms at the corner as i shift my gaze to Sarai.
” I need an answer. I want you to tell me why your girlfriend asked you to work for me.”
” I don’t know.”
I shut my eyes and open them.
” I don’t wanna hurt you Sarai. You’re gonna tell me everything I need to know and that includes what you and your girlfriend planned with Vladimir.”
” I don’t know what you’re talking about. Reid and Meghan are friends. He told her you needed someone who’s gonna take her place and I’ve always wanted to work with the Mafia. Meghan have no connection with the Russians.” She says.
I snap my fingers at Manny. He brings another chair and a tool box. I take the chair and sit in front of her. I collect a switchblade and smirk at her.
” You’re pretty and I bet you won’t be happy to have a scar. I will spare you if you tell me the truth.”
” I’m telling the truth.”
I nod and trail the blade on her jawline as blood drips from her face. She whimpers and cries. I trail the blade to her ears and blood drip along with each trails.
” Can I cut out one ear?”
” Please don’t. I don’t know anything. I swear.”
” Alright. Maybe I should cut one ear then.” I trail the knife along her ear as the blade slice into her skin. She let out a loud wail and I stop.
” Are you willing to talk or not?”
She nods her blood filled face swiftly.
” I’ll tell you what I know. Few months ago , Meghan found out about your underground warehouse through Reid. She drugged him and he told her about it. Painfully, he doesn’t where it is. It seems no one knows about it. She told me you fired her because of your girlfriend and she hated her. She planned to hurt her and make her feel the pains of loosing her job. Reid told her you needed someone and she decides I take her place. He doesn’t know about her plans. So he brought me to you.”
” Why?” I ask.
” Because she wanted me to continue with whatever plans she had. She found out Vladimir wanted same thing after you took his drug deal. Then she worked with him.”
” Wow…” I laugh and rub my temple. Why are they making a story out of whatever thing that happened between me and that Russian prick. It’s like I stole the deal when he’s the one who sabotaged me in front of the Chinese just so he could get the deal. I had to take back what’s mine.
” About a week ago. Ariel got kidnapped. Who told them I was traveling to Chicago and where to find Ariel.”
” I told Meghan you’re leaving. She’s been keeping an eye on your girl for a long time. She wanted her dead.”
” And the Queen’s attack? Also the first attack?”
” It was all Meghan. I never wanted to plan with her. I didn’t have a choice , trust me.” She whimpers and shudders in fear.
” So she used you as a mole to steal informations from me…” I look at her and laugh. This is so hilarious. And Meghan had to manipulate Reid. He’s such a pussy.
” So all this is because of money?”
” I’m sorry. Please don’t kill me. I’ll never hurt anyone. I just had to do it.”
” And seduce me too.”
” She ask me to seduce you. Maybe you might fall for my seduction and tell me where to find it. I’m really sorry , I didn’t plan to hurt her I swear. Meghan hated her and planned to kill her in order to carry on with her plans. She tried to manipulate Reid to kill her but Reid refused.” She says. I nod and stand up.
” Manny go get Meghan. Tell her i got a job for her. If she refuse to come , shoot her…”
…