Ch. 96..100: Until I Met You Chapter 96-100
Chapter 96
I sit at the church’s bench and stare at Jesus on the cross. I hate my life. How did it go from perfect, to hard and then complicated. My life’s complicated right now. I can’t begin to think what’s gonna be Gray’s reaction. And soon I’ll be calling Sinclair daddy.
Twenty whole years without my real parents and just like flash everything changed. A former mob boss and a present drug dealer turns out to be my father. Oh God I hate my life more again. Where am I even gonna start from?
My phone rings as I pull it out from my jeans. I look at the dialer and it’s not in my contacts. I keep my phone on the bench close to me and mute the call. I blink back my tears and wipe my eyes. My phone rings again and I’m getting irritated at the caller. I pick up my phone and angrily swipe the answer icon.
” Ariel…” A male voice speaks on the phone.
” Who’s this?”
” It’s Theo.”
” Sterling?” I ask. Why’s he calling me? I don’t even need the job anymore. I just wanna stay indoors and grieve.
” Yeah. I want a favor from you. Your boyfriend’s on my neck and he wants his money back.”
” Why not pay him?” I ask. He’s adding to my problems right now.
” I don’t have it. I told him this weekend and he’s not listening. I want you to talk to him and maybe plead with him.”
” And why should I do that?”
” You know he listens to you. I’ve never ask you for something before and I need your help. This weekend I’m giving him his money back. I really can’t handle Gray.”
” No Theo.” I hang up and keep my phone.
I take a deep breath and look at Jesus hoping he’d give me a sign. A sign that everything’s gonna be fine. That I’m gonna be fine. That every single turn and event that happened to me , happened for a reason. I shut my eyes and say a silent prayer. I open my eyes only to see the person i never thought I’d see anytime soon.
” Ariel…” Freddie says as he looks at me.
He smiles softly and sits next to me.
” What are you doing here?” He asks and looks at me briefly before turning to look at Jesus on the cross.
” I should be asking you that too.” I tell him and he chuckles.
” Confession. It’s been a long time since my last confession.”
I chuckle.” Never knew you’d come to the priest for confession.” I say and he laughs softly.
” Right? I always do. The day I fucked up our friendship, I made a confession. That happened to be my last and now this one.” He sighs.
I nod without looking at him.
” So you, what are you doing here?” Now it’s his turn to ask.
” Meditating. I’m just sick.” I say half the truth. Right now I’m sick. Sick of all the drama and lies. It sucks.
” You’re sick? What happened to you?” Freddie asks. It’s nice to know that he cares. Even if our friendship is already ruined and we can’t go back to being close friends, he still cares for me.
I sigh and look at Freddie. He can see the vulnerability in my eyes. I feel like puking.
” Did Gray hurt you?” He asks all of a sudden.
” No, Jeez. It’s not Gray. I’m fine. I’ll be fine. I’m here because I need to listen to my thoughts for once.” I sigh.
Freddie nods and smiles at me.” You know despite everything that happened, you still stand up tall. You proved to the world that nothing can actually break you. You can handle every single pain and you’ll always be fine. You taught me that.” He says as we turn to look at ourselves.
” I might not really know what’s going on with you, but I’m pretty sure you’ll be fine and you’ll handle everything just fine. And if it’s relationship issues , it’s not worth it. The pains , the tears and the deep thoughts and thinking less of yourself. It’s not really worth it. No matter what, just remember that some people out there truly care about you.” Freddie says and that made me smile.
” Thanks Freddie.”
He gives me a small smile.” Wanna have lunch? I mean it’s fine if you say no. I can still understand. You’ve gone through a lot.”
Lunch with Freddie?
I don’t wanna complicate things more with myself and Gray.
” Stop overthinking things , Ariel. I understand. Nice necklace by the way.” He says and tips his chin to my chest.
” Thanks.”
” You’re welcome. I should get going.” He stands up and shoves his hands inside his pants.
” Be Careful princess. I still care about you and I still miss you.” He reminds me and turns to leave.
” Fred…” I call out to him as he stops. He looks at me and walks back.
” Why did you do it? Broke our friendship?” I ask him.
He takes in a sharp breath and looks at the floor.
” It’s funny.” He shrugs and looks away from me.
” I already forgave you. You can just tell me why.”
He sighs and walks back to the bench to sit next to me.
” When you graduated high school, I wanted to tell you how I feel since you’re out of highschool. I couldn’t, I thought maybe you were gonna hate me and we won’t be friends. Leslie liked me since highschool I think. She told me she liked me and she wanted me to date her one night at my house. I told her no , even if it was weird she was at my place at a very wrong hour…” he stops and looks at the statue of Jesus before looking down at his legs.
” I told her I liked you, like I loved you. She was mad and angry but I noticed she masked it perfectly well. She said she could help me get you to like me back since I don’t like her. She told me about your nun dreams. I was furious you didn’t tell me about going to the convent. She said you liked me also and she told me your mom was the reason behind your going to the convent. Leslie told me you don’t want to be a nun but your mom made sure you agree. She advised me to drug you. It was supposed to make you horny and maybe you’ll tell me how you feel about me. And that you’ll let me have you. I was wrong, it just drugged you and made you hate me more. It was a dick move , I’m really sorry.” He bites his lip and sighs. He’s still fighting the urge not to look at me.
I can’t believe Leslie would do that. She made Freddie drugged me and she didn’t even tell me about it till date. Leslie didn’t really apologize for even bullying me and saying shit about me. I still overlooked everything she did to me and treated her like a sister when her own mom pushed her out. Can’t believe she made Freddie raped me.
” I’m sorry. I was stupid and foolish. I confronted her about what happened and she said I deserved it. That I was stupid to think she would wanna help me.”
I wipe my eyes and stand up. I can’t take any more of this. I just wanna get out of here. Maybe go to a club and get drunk to numb my pains. My life sucks. I head for the church door as Freddie chase after me.
” Ariel, please I’m sorry. I regretted everything.”
I shouldn’t have asked if I knew I was gonna get hurt more. It’s like I got raped yesterday even if it’s months ago. I’m not really angry at Freddie as much as I’m angry at Leslie. She lied to me and took advantage of me. Who knows if she hasn’t really changed or she’s trying to use my vulnerability against me cause her mom kicked her out.
I stop beside my car and turn to look at Freddie.
” I’m not angry at you. Leslie actually. Can’t believe she’d do that. I just wanna go home. Becareful Freddie.” I open my car door and slide into the driver’s seat.
I ignite the engine and drive into the street. I drive straight to my apartment and halt the car. I step out of the car and walk into the lobby. I enter the elevator and press my penthouse button. I lean against the wall and stare at my reflection at the transparent elevator walls. I continuously wipe my tears and thank God Gray hasn’t called yet. I really can’t handle him right now.
The elevator slides open as I step out. I punch in my code and the door opens. I walk in and shut the door. Alexa isn’t around I think because everywhere seems quiet. I walk to my bedroom and undress myself. I stay under the shower for God knows when, as I step out. I put on one of Gray’s hoodies that I successfully took and I wear pink cotton shorts. I go to the living room and turn on the TV as a music station pops up.
Rihanna’s music video displays on the TV as she dances to her song. I go to the kitchen and brew coffee for myself. I add cream and a little sugar and I sit on the island stool with my elbows on the counter. I run my hand through my hair and take in several deep breaths. My doorbell rings and I groan. Who’s here to visit? I’m not in the mood for this.
I stand up and walk to the door as I look through the peephole. Sinclair? What’s he doing here? How did he find me? I sigh and twist the doorknob open as the door opens.
” What are you doing here? How did you find me?”
” Sorry, that must be creepy for you. I wanted to see you.”
” We just saw each other almost an hour ago.”
He sighs and nods.
” Why are you here?” I ask him and cross my arms.
” Can I come in?” He asks instead of answering.
I step aside and let him come in. I shut the door once he’s inside and look up at him. He’s really tall. I think I took my mother’s height. Because even with heels, Gray’s still taller than me.
” I’m sorry. For everything. I know it’s hard for you to take in and I understand. I just wanna let you know that I’m sorry that this is happening. I want you back Ariel. I know this feels weird and new but I’d like to have you back…” he says.
” Please…” He pleaded when I didn’t answer.
Where am I supposed to start from?
” Erm… we can hangout all weekend to get to know each other better if that’s fine with you. It will be nice of you to consider my offer.” He says.
I sigh and cross my arms.
” What type of hangout?”
” Father-Daughter hangout. You can come spend the weekend with us…”
” Us?” I ask.
” The family.”
” You’re not introducing me to the mafia are you?”
” I won’t , if you don’t want me to.” He shrugs.
He’s kinda handsome for someone who’s into this type of shitty job. My mom looked really well. Can’t believe both sisters dated one man.
” We can also talk more if you want to. I just wanna hangout with you. I missed my daughter. Eighteen fuckin years.” He sighs.
I take a deep breath and nod.
” I’ll think about it.”
” Thanks. Can I call… you know..” Sinclair rambles.
” You don’t have to be nervous. Phone?” I open my palm for him as he gives me his phone.
I take it and type in my number. I press the call icon and it rings before I hang up. I give him back and he gives me a small smile.
” Thank you.
I smile back.” Sure.”
He stares at me awkwardly as he keeps back his phone. I stand on my toes and wrap my arms around him. At first he tenses but later relaxes to the hug. I could barely believe I’m doing this. This feels awkward. He wraps his arms around me and pat my back.
” Thanks Scarlett.”
I don’t really like the name Scarlett but I didn’t tell him that. We pull apart and he flashes me a big smile.
” See ya around.” I tell him.
” Nice penthouse by the way.”
I chuckle and nod. I open the door for him and he walks out. Before I could shut the door , Alexa and Leslie walked in. The sight of Leslie made my stomach hurt and I hate the fact that she fucked up my friendship with Freddie.
” Hi Ariel.” Leslie says.
Is it too late to hate her?
Chapter 97
” Hi Les…” I greet her with a fake smile.
I close the door as they walk in. Alexa looks exhausted as she carries the pizza box to the kitchen.
” So what are you doing here , Leslie?”
” Was passing by, just decided to drop by.” She says. Maybe she needs money. Obviously.
I nod as Alexa returns. She slumps down on the couch and takes a deep breath.
” I wanna ask you something.” I tell Leslie. She looks at me and nods.
” Did you tell Freddie to rape me because he didn’t like you?” I ask her as Alexa whips her head to us.
She stands up at once and walks to us. Leslie looks pale.
” No way, did you?” Alexa asks.
” Uh… I…” Leslie stutters.
” Oh my fuck. How could you?” Alexa yells.
” I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to. It wasn’t intentional. I was…”
” Jealous. You were jealous of me. You know I never thought you could do that to me even if you’re capable of it.”
” I’m really sorry , Ariel.” Leslie plea.
” You should leave.” I sigh and open the door for her.
” Ariel, I didn’t mean to.” Leslie says.
” Leslie get the fuck out.” Alexa yells at her and pushes her out and shuts the door.
” God.. how could she do that?”
I bite my bottom lip and sit down on the couch opposite the TV.
” How did you know?” Alexa asks.
” Freddie told me. We met at church.” I say and shrug.
” I’m so sorry.” She says and I nod.
I just wanna go out and party. This sucks. My life sucks.
” It’s fine. What happened to you? You look wasted and depressed.” I tell her.
She sighs and chuckles.
” You know i never thought seeing your ex fling will be so fuckin hard.” She mutters and goes to the kitchen.
” You’re not okay, what happened?” I ask her even if I’m not okay at all. I still feel like shit.
” I’m not. You wanna party tonight. I need to get numb and I need a friend to hangout with.”
I sigh and nod.
I also need that. Just few drinks and I’ll be numb as long as I don’t think about my stupid life. Thinking about Leslie and the shit she did is impossible to forget.
” Then let’s eat up.” She motions to the pizza box as she opens it.
She opens her bag and brings out a gun. I look at it and sit down opposite her on the stool.
” You should have one too.” She says.
I pick it up and bring out the bullet, it’s loaded. I put it back and cock the gun.
” Okay Mrs Carter. That’s kinda risky.” Alexa says.
I shake my head and drop back the gun.
” Since we’ll be partying tonight, I suggest we carry guns. We need to buy.”
She said it like it’s something normal. Why would I wanna buy guns when Gray got a bunch of them. And he sells those too.
” Why will we be needing guns?” I ask and pick up a slice of pizza.
” The Russians have gone rogue.” She simply states.
” Really?” I ask her and raise my coffee to my mouth as I drink it.
” Yeah.” She answers and munch on her pizza.
” Damn…”
” Yeah. But we can go to your boyfriend’s for guns if you’re willing to tell him you are going to a club. You know he won’t let you party.” Alexa says and I nod.
I really don’t wanna tell him I wanna visit a club today. Tonight I need to forget the fact that people who claimed they cared about me hurt me so much. I can’t even tell Gray about Sinclair being my father. Maybe not now. He’s going to freak out.
Alexa and I eat as we converse. I didn’t tell her about Sinclair and I was grateful she didn’t ask. I’m not ready to think about that or I’m diving back to depression and depending on pills.
I brush my hair as Alexa applies makeup. I wear black jean trousers and a peach colored off the shoulder crop top and a peacoat. The peacoat was Alexa’s idea actually. She also wears a peacoat , with a leather skirt and a crop top too. Alexa bought four handguns and I’m still wondering what we need them for. We only wanna get a few drinks and then come back home.
I shove both guns inside the pocket of the peacoat as I wear my boots and tie the strap of my coat. We walk out of my room and I promise myself that I’m forgetting about my pains for tonight. Gray called. I texted him that I’m in my parents house and I’m helping them out. He sounded surprised because of the relationship I had with my parents in general.
We pull up at the club as we step out. I shut the door and we walked inside the club. You know I never thought I would ever visit a club to get numb. It’s just the best idea right now to fight my problems. I can’t get Gray involved with this. The loud music hit my ear as we walk to the bar. We sit at the available stool at the bar and Alexa snaps her fingers at the bartender to draw his attention. The blonde haired man walks to us with a huge smile on his face.
” What should I get you?”
” Vodka and Martini, please.” Alexa says.
The bartender smiles and walks out.
” So what are you getting drunk for?” I ask Alexa and turn on my side to look at her.
” It’s complicated.”
” Yeah?” I think my life’s more complicated than yours.
” Because of Reid.”
” Reid?”
She rests her elbows on the counter and nods.
” I never knew meeting your ex fling can be complicated sometimes. I couldn’t stop thinking about that terrible night. I hate to admit it, I liked it.” She says as the bartender returns with our drinks.
” Thank you.” Alexa gives him her card and he takes it.
” So, are you in love with him?”
” No. It’s just an attraction.” She assures me and smiles at me as she chugs her drink.
I sigh and gulp mine too.
” How did he react to you?”
” Nothing. Just stare and look away.” She says.
” What’s your plan then?” I ask her.
” We don’t wanna talk about Reid tonight. Let’s just drink please.”
I giggle and gulp down my drink. I look back at the dance floor and it’s covered with different types of bodies. After taking over four glasses and we’re already tipsy , Alexa drags me to the dance floor. For once I forgot about my problems. Leslie, my foster parents slash aunt and even Freddie. A guy danced to us and Alexa shoo him away.
After dancing for a long time, we scurry to the bar. I ordered water, including Alexa. I feel like I’ve had enough. And seriously, I have. We talk and laugh at ourselves as we hear a gunshot. We looked back at the dance floor and my breath caught up in my throat. God not again. The next thing that follows is a gun fire.
” Get down…” Alexa shouts as we duck down the counter.
” Russians.” Alexa mutters.
People scream as they hide. Other gun men in the club pull out their guns as they exchange bullets.
” Let’s get out of here.” Alexa shouts as she grabs my arms.
The gun fire doesn’t stop. I cover my ears as we rush to the entrance but a gun shot made us turn back.
” Why are they here?” I ask Alexa.
” Running from something princess?” A guy asks as we stop right in front of him. He’s got an eye patch and he has a gun. Obviously a Russian because his accent sold him out.
He pulls out his gun but Alexa was smarter, she shot him right on the head.
” Go…” she shouts and picks up the Russian’s gun.
The gun-men direct their shooting at us as we hop onto the counter and hide behind it. The bullets hit the counter and I barely can hear myself. Bottles, glass scattered to the ground . I didn’t expect I’d witness this again. At least not now. Alexa pulls out another gun to make it two.
” Ready to shoot princess?” Alexa asks as she cocks both guns.
” The last time I tried this, I got shot.” I tell her. The shooting got nearer and that Is when it dawned on me that they are after me again.
” Seriously.” Alexa hisses as she stands up and shoots at each gun-men.
She squats down the counter and gives me a weird look. I pull out both my guns as i cock both of them. A Russian mob boss killed my mother. And then these same mobsters are after my own life. I tip my head to the top of the counter as Alexa smiles. We stand up in unison and start shooting. The screaming doesn’t stop and everywhere is messed up. We use the bar counter as a shield and shoot back as they fall dead.
” Go…” We hop out of the counter and run to the entrance because the gunmen in the club are already dead.
Girls with barely clothing scream as they run out of the club. We pursue as we rush straight to the front door. It’s locked and obviously jammed.
” Back door.” I mutter to Alexa as we rush back to the club.
We take the hallway that leads to the back door as three Russian mobsters rush in. We point our guns at them and shoot them before they pull the trigger.
“Fuckin bitch.” A man growls behind us as we turn around.
I shoot him on the shoulder as he falls down. The hate and anger rush through my veins and I shoot him on the head.
” You fuckin dick.” I hear Alexa curses as I turn around swiftly.
She fights with a Russian mobster as she punches him. She kneels on the private region and he crashes on the floor in pain. She shoots him on the head and rubs her neck.
” Dude tried to fuckin strangle me.”
” Let’s go.” She sighs as we walk down the hallway. I see the back exit and hopefully it’s not locked.
I twist the doorknob and it’s open. We walk out as the cool fresh air blankets our skin. I’m already sweating. I squatted to catch my breath and a bullet hit the door behind me.
” Fuck go.” Alexa shouts as we shoot at the Russians.
I duck at every bullet as we run to a parked car and hide behind it.
” Where the fuck’s Gray?” Alexa shouts as bullets hit the car.
” How am I supposed to know? We’re crowded and this won’t end well.” I tell her and stand up a bit to shoot the invader.
The bullet hit his shoulder as he falls down. Dead maybe.
” We need to get the fuck out of here. There are too many of them.”
” And they want me dead.” I say as we shoot at them.
” If I don’t make it out alive, know that I love you.” Alexa says and winks.
We stand up at once and begin shooting at the shooters. They fall down as we walk to their bodies. I throw away my used gun and pick up the dead Russians guns including Alexa. Alexa kicks one on the head before rushing to enter a car the Russians drove in with. She starts the car as I check the ammo. Both are assault rifles.
Alexa drives down the pavement as I reach my pocket for my phone. God I lost it inside. I look at the side mirror and notice a car on our tail. They are obviously armed.
” Where’s your phone? I need to call Gray.”
” Left it at your place.” She answers and speeds up. I’ve never been scared this much in my life.
” You know we got company right?” I ask her.
” Yeah. Ready to roll?” She looks at me briefly and I smile.
She pushes a button as the sunroof opens. The Russians are close and this is getting scarier than I thought. Alexa drives through a tiny lane and they chase after us. The passenger pulls out his gun from the side window and shoots at us. Alexa increases speed as she drives down the lane. The road is even bumpy.
” Shoot princess.”
I sigh and pull out the gun and aim at the car behind us. I squeeze the trigger and shoot at them. Alexa swerves the car and we appear on the road. A normal road. I duck the incoming bullets and shoot at them. Their car swerves dangerously and hits itself with another car , I watch it go ablaze. I take a deep breath and sit in my car.
” That was good.” Alexa says.
” Watch out.” I scream but it’s too late. A car sped out from a tiny lane and hit ours.
Everything starts to turn violently. The windshield breaks and a broken glass pierces my shoulder. The car stops turning as everything turns black. The car’s upside down and I can’t breathe.
” Fuck…” Alexa touches her ribs as she struggles with the door.
I push open my door and stagger out of the car including Alexa. My shoulder is already bleeding and Alexa hurts her ribs. I feel a cold metal press against my head and I can’t feel my feet.
” Found you now.” Moskov says as he pulls the hammer of the gun.
Chapter 98“Why did you do that?” I ask De Luca for the hundredth time.
” Did what exactly?”
” You know what I’m talking about. De Luca we work together. We’re partners and family. Whatever decisions you make you should tell me first Luca. You can’t just make Phillip work for Gray and use him as a mole to steal information from Gray. Why start a war with him?”
” Seriously Sin. What the fuck are you saying? You’re scared of Gray now? That fuckin kid is leading in the drug business. There’s no damn profit anymore. Now what , I use someone to steal information from him about his biggest clients that’s gonna change our lives, you’re getting angry? When did you start having feelings for the kid? You forgot what he did to you?”
” That doesn’t explain the shit you did. Gray might be a kid but you can’t easily outsmart him. He’s got Phillip now and he’s gonna kill him because of you.”
” At least I got one client’s name.” De Luca says, like it’s nothing.
I slam my palm on his desk and puff out my breath. This is so complicated. I’ve finally found my daughter whom I think I lost and she’s deeply in love with Gray. How am I gonna do that? No matter what Gray does , I just can’t like him. I trusted him and he used me like a piece of shit. I walk out of De Luca’s office and go to mine. I push the drape aside and sit on the swivel chair. I toss my suit jacket on the desk and lean against the chair.
Now I need to tell Aisha that I have a daughter and she might come over for the weekend. Ariel makes me nervous. She reminds me so much of Ariana and I can’t forget the memory of how she died before my eyes. I have hated my life since that incident. Finding out I lost my daughter , made things worse for me. I hated humanity and all I wanted that period was revenge. Now I’ve got her back. Hurts to think she’s falling head over heels in love with Gray.
Imagine someone who ruined your life, kissing your daughter and even in a relationship with her. This sucks. Someone knocks on my door and i let the person in. Aisha peeks her head in and smiles at me. She can’t be like Ariana. I’m not even sure if I can love someone else as much as I loved Ariel’s mother. She took everything away from me when she died. I don’t even know what I feel for Aisha. Still don’t know why we got married. She isn’t really bad or annoying, she’s calm , nice but her daughter is a crack addict. Little slut who likes money.
” Sweetheart, are you okay?” She asks and walks in. She shuts the door and sits on the desk.
” I’m not.”
She sighs and runs her fingers down my hair.
” What happened?” She asks.
” I… I have a daughter.” I state. She blinks her eyes and stares at me blankly.
” A daughter? What daughter?”
” I once had a daughter. Thought I lost her but I got her back.”
” You had a daughter? Sin you couldn’t even tell me. Why didn’t you tell me?”
” I’m sorry. Thought she was dead and I didn’t want to talk about it. It’s like bringing back painful memories.” I say and she nods.
” Who’s she?”
” Her name’s Ariel.”
” Ariel? Sin, you have a daughter?” Sasha asks from nowhere as she shuts the door.
“I have told you several times to always knock Sasha.” I scold her.
” I’m sorry. Was passing by and I heard the loudest shocker of my life. A daughter? Is she prettier than me?” Sasha asks. She’s a psycho.
I ignore her and look at Aisha.
” When is she coming?” Aisha asks.
” Weekend, hopefully.”
Aisha smiles and kisses my cheek.
” We’ll be waiting for her then.” She gets up from my desk and drags Sasha out.
~ARIEL~
My heart leapt to my feet and for once I wish I didn’t go out to party. My shoulder hurts and the glass is still pierced against my skin. Alexa is also held at gunpoint. She clutches her ribs as she whimpers silently.
I see six other guys pointing their guns at us. All looking ruthless and emotionless.
” You don’t have to fuckin do this.” Alexa hisses in pain.
” Do what, really? Shoot your brains out? You know most times i actually wonder why the fuck did Vladimir picked an interest in you.” He says through clench teeth.
” Why don’t you just go after Gray? Why come after me? You don’t have to get away with everything you do Moskov.” I say.
” Bitch, he likes you. And killing you is like killing him emotionally. Now move your dumbass.” He commands and pushes my head with his gun.
I refuse to move but he angrily pierce the glass deeper into my skin. I shriek in pain and shudder.
” Are you gonna fuckin’ move or not?” He yells.
” Don’t fuckin’ touch me.” Alexa warns the gun man and he aggressively kicks her already broken ribs.
She falls down and coughs violently. I turn to run to her but Moskov holds me back. The gunman squat to grab Alexa’s arm, i see her pulls out the gun from the man’s belt and shoots him. Gunshots erupts from every corner and I’m being tossed on the ground. I hiss in pain as I hold my shoulder. I look up and see every single mobster dead and Alexa was shot on the leg.
” Oh my God, Alexa.” I try to sit up to help her but Reid squats close to her. No way.
Someone grabs my waist and pulls me to my feet.
” Gray?” I call out.
He looks pissed and worst still angry. He ignores me and grabs my wrist as we start walking.
” Moskov ran away.” Reid mutters.
” I’ll find him.”
Reid lifts Alexa as a bride and they follows behind. I look back at the dead mobsters and Moskov is truly missing.
” Gray I can explain…” I tell him.
He ignores me and opens the passenger’s side door for me to enter.
” Gray it’s not what you think.” I protest.
” Get the fuck in Ariel.” He commands through clench teeth.
Reid sits Alexa at the backseat and enters as he shuts the door. I sigh and slide into Gray’s car. Gray shuts the door violently as he rounds the car and enters the driver’s seat. He ignites the engine and drives onto the street. I look at Alexa through the rearview mirror as she gives me a sick smile. She was shot on the leg and obviously she’s bleeding. I caused this. I got her shot and it was all my fault.
” My car is still at the club.” I say out of the blue.
I hear Reid huffs at the back as he looks out the window. Gray doesn’t say a word to me till we reach his house. He halts the car in his garage and Reid hurries out of the car to carry Alexa out. It’s rare he cares about anyone other than Gray. That’s weird. Gray gets out of the car and opens my side door for me to get out. Reid already leaves with Alexa in his arms.
” I’m sorry.” I say as I step out of the car.
He ignores me again and shuts the door. This is unbearable. Why the silent treatment? I know I deserve it but not to this extent. I wince at my shoulder and it hurts more than ever. I actually forget that windshield glass is still inside my flesh. Gray sighs and holds my wrist as he begins walking. For once he doesn’t look angry. Calm and sad. His workers look at us as we enter.
I ignore Nick’s pitiful look and look at the floor. We walk up the stairs to Gray’s room. He sits me on the couch and leaves. Why did he have to leave me? Is he even aware that a glass is stabbed to my skin? I try to take it out but I stop when I hear Gray’s voice.
” I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” He says.
I look up at him and he’s holding a first aid kit. He sits on the spot next to me and drops the kit in between us.
” It’s gonna hurt a lot so close your eyes.” He says and I shake my head sideways.
He rolls his eyes and starts to pull it out. It feels like my shoulder is falling off. I scream and Gray stops at once. He sighs and looks into my eyes. Tears already stained my face and I know I look like shit. He tucks my hair behind my ear and cups my cheek. Gray kissed me at once and that caught me off guard. I shut my eyes and let his mouth roam mine. I part my lips to kiss back but he stops.
I open my eyes to look at him and he’s holding the broken glass covered in my blood. He already pulled it out. How did he do that and I didn’t feel a thing. He helps me shrug off the pea coat and he cleans the injury with alcohol. I scream and swat him several times as he cleans the cut. It hurts like hell. After applying treatment on it , Gray covers the cut with a band-aid.
I take several breaths and look down at my shoulder.
” How did you find me?” I ask him as he takes out the first aid kit.
” Really? How could you go out to a party without even telling me? You even told me you visited your parents, I knew that sounded strange. I can’t believe you will lie about something like that.” He scolds.
I sigh and look at my lap.” I’m sorry.”
” You’re sorry? Ariel you almost got shot again. What if I didn’t even show up? What if I didn’t give you that pendant?”
Maybe he should be asking what if I didn’t put it on. What if I was stupid enough to take it off , forgetting the fact that Gray made sure it has a tracking device. I think i always make stupid decisions when I’m in bad shape.
” I’m really sorry. I found out some ugly truth and I hate to think of it. I wanted to feel numb and forget about everything.”
He looks calm for once. Gray sits next to me. He lifts me off the couch and places me on his lap. His right arm caresses my hips to my lower back as he draws small circles on my bare back.
” What did you find out?” He asks. His grey eyes watch me and I feel terribly guilty for lying to him.
” Sinclair..”
His brows furrow at me as he looks at me blankly.
” Again?”
” Gray, look it’s different this time.”
” What do you mean?” He asks with a bored tone.
” He’s my father.”
I feel his hand tense on my back as he clenches his jaw. His eyes look dull all of a sudden as he looks at me emotionlessly. He’s pissed.
” It’s true. He visited my family at home and he had a DNA test, Gray. He’s my real father and I didn’t see that coming either.”
He still looks emotionless. His facials portrays emptiness and nothing. Gray grabs my waist and sits me back on the couch. He stands up and puffs out his breath. His hands run down his hair and he’s not looking at me. He walks to the nightstand of the bed and picks up a cigarette and a lighter as he walks to the balcony. I watch him struggle to light it as he keeps the lighter in his pocket. He inhales the stick and the next thing that follows is a cloud of smoke.
I stand up and slowly walk to his form standing on the balcony.
” Ariel, not now.” He says when he notices I’m almost close to him.
” I’m really sorry about that. He visited the penthouse though.” I say and stop moving.
He gently taps on the railings with his forefinger and smokes.
” He wants me to come hangout with him..”
” The fuck you won’t.” He says as he turns to look at me. He’s now angry.
” Gray you don’t understand.”
” I don’t understand? You’re serious? You go out to party and almost get yourself killed and now what? Sinclair turns out to be your father and you’re telling me now. Like this. What do you want me to do. Smile and then get booze and get high as fuck. You’re not hanging out with him.”
” You are not even helping matters.” I yell at him.
He steps out of the balcony and stops in front of me. He is always so intimidating as he towers over me.
” He can’t just tell you you’re his daughter and you wanna throw yourself at him and Hangout. What type of shitty hangout is that?” He yells.
I poke his chest.” A father and daughter hangout. I’m visiting his house this weekend and we’re gonna have dinner and I’ll meet his family. We’re gonna talk like father and daughter and I’ll be spending the weekend. If you don’t like it , then let me do what I want.” I yell at him.
He stares at me blankly and bites his bottom lip.
” I won’t let you do that.”
” You don’t control me Gray and don’t tell me what to do. The fact that we’re in a relationship doesn’t mean you have to be in control and tell me what to do. If you love me , you’ll support my decisions.”
” Not decisions that have to do with Sin.” He says.
” Can you even listen to yourself? He’s my father. You can’t change that and you can’t stop me either.” I tell him and poke his hard chest one last time.
I wanna run my fingers along that chest of his but this is not the time. He’s acting like a kid and I didn’t expect him to act like that. I huff and pick up my pea coat.
” Where the fuck are you going?” He asks when i turn to leave.
” I’m getting the hell outta here.” I tell him as I walk out the door.
Chapter 99
I walk out of Gray’s room and walk down the hall to Reid’s room. I raise my hand to knock only to find the door slightly.
” You know I never thought you’d care.” I hear Alexa’s voice.
” Shut up. I didn’t tell you I cared anyway.” Reid says and Alexa chuckles.
” You know I cared. Even if you acted like a pussy when we had sex.”
Goddamnit.
Are they serious?
Are they like having feelings for each other?
” Fuck , I didn’t act like a pussy. I only made things easy for the both of us. You liked it.”
” So what about you? You acted like it was nothing to you.” She says.
” You need to start healing. I already called a nurse to make sure you’re okay.”
I tap my knuckles on the door as I hear footsteps. The door opens as Reid steps aside for me to come in. He walks out and shuts the door behind him. I walk to the bed Alexa lay on. I sit on the edge of the bed and hold her hand. Her leg is wrapped up in bandages and her ribs. Can’t really see that. She is wearing Reid’s t-shirt and Calvin Klein briefs. Oh my God.
” What?” She laughs.
I blink my eyes at her form and smile.
” His clothes. Did he help you out?”
” Yeah. Reid helped to get me changed. He isn’t as bad as I thought.”
” Shut up. I see the chemistry between you two. He likes you just scared to admit it. Gray was like that too.”
Talking about Gray, it hurts a lot that we fight. Maybe I was a little irrational and yelled at him when I’m supposed to be calm. He’s only acting selfish now. What type of boyfriend stops their girlfriend from hanging out with their long lost father. Gray of course.
” Are you okay?” Alexa asks. I blink at her and nod.
” You zoned out Ariel. What happened?”
I sigh and fiddle with my peacoat. My shoulder still hurts terribly. I didn’t even let him give me painkillers for this because I was angry at him.
” I uh… you know Sinclair right? Shit , of course you know Sinclair.” I sigh and look at my lap.
” Alexa , he’s my father.”
” Oh my God…” she tries to sit up but I force her to lay back.
” You don’t have to Alexa. He showed up at my apartment and he told me. He did a DNA test with my hair too and my mom confirmed it.” I tell her.
” Wait, your mom cheated on your dad with Sinclair?”
” Not really. She’s not my mom. My mom’s her younger twin sister.”
” Oh my God. Oh my fucking God. How did this even happen? Where’s your mom?”
” Dead. Vladimir’s father killed her when I was two. My foster mom , our Aunt hid me from Sin because of this whole Mafia thing. Long story short , I’m hanging out with him this weekend.”
” Damn. This is deep.”
” Yeah , right? Gray doesn’t like the idea. He wants me not to hangout with Sinclair because he thinks it’s not right and it’s not safe for me.”
” Really? Or there’s something to do with that reason.”
” They don’t like each other. Something happened between them and they really can’t get along, ever.”
” Okay, that’s triple deep. Your new daddy doesn’t like Gray and Gray doesn’t like your new daddy at all. This is fucked up.”
” Right? I’m so tired.”
” So you guys fought?”
” Kinda. I wanna go home and get some pain killers for this injury. How are you feeling?”
” I’m not fucking good. You’re in deep shit Ariel.”
” I’ll be fine, Alex. I just need a warm bath , painkillers and then think throughout the night.”
She sighs and nods.
” Can I see?” I ask her tugging at the hem of the T-shirt she’s wearing. She nods and I push it up to look at her ribs.
” The Mafia isn’t really easy huh?” I look at her and drop the t-shirt. She shrugs and holds my wrist.
” You will be careful right?”
” Yeah. Thanks sis , for everything.” I say.
She scrunches her face and then giggles. She’s a psycho.
” See ya. I’m pretty sure Reid’s gonna take care of you.”
” Yeah.” She nods and I stand up holding my peacoat.
” I’m gonna come check on you.” I tell her and head to the door.
I open it and step out of the room.
” Ariel.” I stop on my track and turn around to see Nick.
” What the fuck happened to you guys?” He asks and motions to Reid’s room.
” Russians. Club and then gunfire.” I answer and shrug. He looks at my shoulder and it’s bleeding out.
” I’m really sorry about that.”
” Thanks Lucy.” I smile at him and he chuckles.
” Lucy now huh? Fuck me. Kennedy caused this.” He fakes sadness and I laugh softly at him.
” Where’s Gray?”
” Drove out with Reid a few minutes ago. He wasn’t really in a good mood though.”
” Thanks, Nick.”
You know I never actually thought he would drive out after we fought. I’m just overthinking things obviously.
” Later Nick.” I tell him and turn to leave.
” Gray wants me to drop you off at your place since he couldn’t drive you himself.” He says as he walks beside me.
” Thank you.”
****
Nick parks the car as I step out.
” Wow. So you live in a penthouse now?” Nick asks as he gets out of the car too.
” Kinda.” I shrug.
” See ya Hermosa.” He smiles and I smile back.
I walk into the lobby and take the elevator. The ride was terrible for me since I can barely think. I open my door and throw my peacoat on the couch. I groan in pain and walk to my bedroom. I open the nightstand and pick up the painkillers. I throw the pills inside my mouth without water as I sit on my bed.
|•GRAY•|
” I didn’t get to see your girl.” Damon says as we drive to his new apartment.
Dude bought a penthouse a few days ago. Glad he’s getting his life back and he needs a job since he isn’t going back to the army.
” She’s got a house Damon.” God why can’t we act like normal brothers. We always had to fight. Maybe because he’s got an ego he’s not willing to bruise.
” You hired a babysitter or what?” I ask as I park the car outside the apartment building.
” Kinda.” He says as we stare at ourselves. It’s like I’m looking at my older reflection. Why did we have to look alike?
” You know you should get a car right? I ask you to keep the one you used in driving Kennedy the other day.”
” You’re drug dealer Gray.” He says sarcastically. I glare at him and nod.
” Then what the fuck are you doing in a drug dealer’s car?” I ask him.
He chuckles and he unfastens his seatbelt.
” You’re my kid brother, remember.” I hate it when he calls me kid. Like he’s six years older than me when he is just two years older.
” Bro I’m not a kid. And stop calling me that.” I glare at him and get out of my car. ” Fuckin asshole.” I mutter and walk ahead of him.
He follows behind as I wait for the elevator to arrive. It arrives and a blonde haired girl walks out. She flashes me a smile but I ignore it. I missed her so badly and it hurts like hell. Sinclair is bad news. He can’t just walk back into her life and demand a hangout. Things don’t even work like that. I puff out my breath and turn to look at Damon watching me.
” God you’re so fuckin creepy.” I mutter and look away from him.
” You know you just act like someone who got dumped. You fought with her right?” He asks.
Damn , is this elevator even moving?
Why are we stuck here?
He’s making things worse for me with his frequent talking and he’s not helping.
I ignore him and look away from him.
” I ask because I care about you, Gray. You guys make one of the best couples ever. Whatever the problem is, just remember that you should always make the first move to apologise. Wrong or not. Women code.” He smiles and thankfully the elevator doors slide open.
I step out and walk down the elevator. I ring the doorbell and wait impatiently for who’s in there to open up. The door opens revealing a petite brunette. She’s so fuckin short but kinda pretty. She smiles warmly and walks back inside the house. I briefly look at Damon as we enter his house. I’ve never been here since he bought it. I wanted to make sure Kennedy’s fine, that’s why I had to drive him back here.
” Jamal…” She calls my name as she races into the living room. The petite already disappears into the kitchen.
I lift her off the ground and sit her on the couch. I ruffle her hair and tickle her. She laughs and shouts as she giggles.
” God, I’m so jealous. You’re like her daddy.” Damon mutters and picks up the remote control.
” Don’t change my cartoon.” Kennedy says between laughter.
” You heard her dad.” I say and stop tickling her.
Damon rolls his eyes and drops the remote.
” Where’s your mom Kenny?” I ask as she crawls to sit on my lap.
” At home. It’s daddy’s turn to look after me. Where’s Ariel? Why didn’t you come with her?”
” Well…”I trail off. Damon looks at me and shakes his dead sideways.
” She’s busy Kenny.”
” You don’t ever come with her.” She whines.
” I’m really sorry, Kennedy. School and work and she’s at home.” I smile at her and pat her hair.
” You’re sure?”
I nod and she smiles widely. My phone rings as I pull it out from my pocket. I slide the answer icon and press it against my ear.
” Reid.”
” Wanna go Russian hunting?” He asks on the phone.
” Seen a target.”
” Yeah. You know Moskov is missing and he’s probably gone MIA. Seen an idiot who can probably know his whereabouts. Where the fuck are you?”
” I’m coming.”
” Waiting.” He hangs up.
I look down at Kennedy as she pouts. Oh God.
“I’ll be back , I promise. And I will personally take you out and get you all the cotton candy you want.”
She beams with happiness.” Really?”
” Yeah. And also I’ll get Ariel too. I know you miss her a lot.”
She flings her arms around my shoulders as she hugs me.” Thank you Jamal.”
I pat her hair and look up at Damon who is watching us. I smirk at him and give him my middle finger.
” Fuckin idiot.” He mutters.
” Daddy I heard that.” Kennedy says as she pulls away from the hug.
” I’m sorry honey.” He checks his pockets and pulls out 10 dollars.
Kennedy takes it and dash out of the living room.
” See ya later dad.”
••••••
I tap my fingers on the wheel as Reid lights his third cigarette. Now I’m getting bored. I badly wanted to call Ariel but I decided to play it cool. Since she left my place last night , I only called her once to check on her shoulder.
She still sounds pissed. Making me feel guilty because I tried to make sure she’s okay. I think she’d choose her father over me because of what I did. I sigh and lean my head against the headrest of the car seat.
” You fought with her right?” Reid asks.
” Yeah. Found out Sinclair is her father. So fucking stupid.”
” Hell no.”
” Hell yes. Her mother is Ariana. Same lady the Russians killed.”
” Did she tell you that? About Sinclair being her father.”
” Yeah, she told me. Got DNA proof. And her supposed parents proved her right. This sucks.” I stretch my hand and take the stick from Reid.
I Inhale the cigarette and exhale it out. I give it back to Reid and look out the window. There he was. One of Moskov’s most trusted men. I need to end this shit once and for all. I watch him walk down the sidewalk and I get out. I push my hands inside my jacket pocket and follow him from behind. I pull out my gun and press the barrel against his back. I feel his muscles tensed as he slows down his step.
” Keep walking, Alberto.” I whisper, pressing the barrel into his back.
” Fuck Gray.” He mutters and walks slowly.
” Don’t try to play smart. There are about 3 snipers on these roofs watching you. One wrong move and you won’t be breathing anymore. Walk like a fuckin person.” I motioned with the gun still pressed against his back.
He takes a defeated breath and continues walking. Reid drives in and slows down the car close to the sidewalk.
” The car.” I say.
“What?”
” Get in the fuckin car.” I mutter.
He sighs and walks to the car. I open the passenger side door for him and push him. Reid points his gun at him as he freezes more.
” Be a man Alberto.” Reid tells him.
I handcuff both his wrist and shut the door. I slide into the backseat as Reid starts driving.
•••••
” I’m asking you for the last time Alberto, where the fuck is Moskov?” I yell at this badly bruised man.
He’s got a black eye, a torn lip and almost bruised cheek and a broken nose. Yet he isn’t saying a word.
” Let’s kill this fucker Gray.” Reid says as he cocks his gun.
” We need Moskov’s new whereabouts and he’s the only one who can tell us. I want him dead or he’s gonna regroup.” I say.
” Are you gonna fuckin talk or not? I’m shooting you, if you don’t speak. Where’s your boss?” Reid asks.
Alberto smirks and spits on Reid’s face. I glare at him and he chuckles. Before I can stop Reid he already pulls the trigger.
” Shit.” I mutter and run my fingers through my hair.
” Fuckin bastard.” Reid cusses and wipes his face.
” How the fuck are we gonna find Moskov?”
” He was never gonna talk , Gray. Fuckin Omertà.”
|•ARIEL•|
” Mom, I don’t wanna talk to you. You’ve done more than enough. I get it, you were trying to protect me and I’m not mad at you alright.”
” I didn’t mean what I did. I even thought you would delete my number.” She says as she sniffles.
Whoa is she crying?
She can’t cry.
Does she even feel pain?
Most times I think Leslie got all her attitude from my foster mom slash aunt. Her husband is like a puppet. She controls him. Still don’t know why.
” Thanks. Even if you were kinda mean and ill treated me , you brought me up. You fought to protect me and I valued that. Talk later mom.” I hang up and toss my phone on the couch.
I slump on the couch opposite the TV and pull my knees to my chest. I’ve been feeling sick since yesterday. And I’m always dizzy and I throw up once this morning. I pick up my phone and tap on Gray’s contact on my phone. I miss him so badly even after telling myself I need to think about myself today after what happened yesterday. Maybe I shouldn’t have yelled at me. Also he tried to stop me because he doesn’t like Sinclair.
I’ve been thinking all through the night and I really don’t have a solution. I just wanna talk to Sinclair about Gray. Their feud, dissing and their past relationship. I click on the message icon on my phone and type a one quick message.
To Gray; I’m sorry.
Once it reads ‘sent’ , I keep my phone close to me and hug my knees. I look down at my phone waiting for a reply and there’s none from him. Is he snubbing me or what? I feel sick again. I think each time I’m stressed I always throw up and that’s kinda weird. My mind drift to Mia’s yacht party and i remembered when I had sex with Gray on that ship.
I stop breathing when I remember I wasn’t on the pills that day.
” Oh my God. It’s not true right?” I panic as I rush to my room to search for a PT. I haven’t missed a month and I’m normal. I’m not expecting, I can’t expect. Not now, not even anytime soon. I search through the drawers and I find one. I take a deep breath and decide to search through my brain for any day that I took pills. I kinda did but it was after the sex. My doorbell rings at once. I drop the PT on the nightstand and walk to the living room. I look through the peephole and there’s no one.
I bite my lip , hoping it’s Gray as I open the door. He always looks more handsome each time we fight.
” Tinkerbell.”
I blush. It sounds new , like it’s been long he called me that. I stepped aside for him to enter and he did enter. I shut the door and he surprises me by hugging me.
” I’m sorry Tink. Really sorry and I love you very much.”
” I’m sorry too.” I tell him as he lifts me off the ground. My legs are curled around his torso as he wraps his arms around my waist.
” Wanna hangout?” He asks.
I giggle.” Sure.”
” Go get dressed.” He drops me back on the floor. I stand on my tippy toes and peck his lips. He pulls me to himself and takes over my lips.
” Fuck, you’re so pretty.” He mutters against the kiss.
” And you’re hot.” I bite his bottom lip as I stand back on my feet.
I hurry to my room and go through my closet. I quickly get dressed and look at my reflection in the mirror. My eyes meet the PT as I keep it back. I’ll do that later.
Chapter 100
I lace my fingers with Gray’s as we walk out of the lobby.
” My car?” I ask eagerly as I look up at him.
” Brought it yesterday. Wanna drive? Or you want me to drive?” He asks and gives me my key.
” I will drive.” I take my key from him and open the driver’s side door. I slide into the car and Gray enters the passenger side.
” Fasten your seatbelt, lover.” I wink at Gray and ignite the engine.
I reversed back and accidentally hit a car behind me. Causing an alarm from the car.
” Shit.” I mutter.
” Damn.” Gray mutters and chuckles.
I quickly steer the wheel and drive into the streets.
” That was silly.” He says and I roll my eyes and chuckle.
” Where do you wanna go?” I ask Gray.
” I should ask you, where do you wanna go? I’m the one taking you out.”
” And I’m driving.” I tell him and he laughs softly.
” I wanna see a movie. We’ve never seen a movie together.” I say.
He sighs and nods.
” And please don’t choose romance.” He utters and taps his fingers on the window sill.
” But why not? Romance is cute. It displays the symbol of Love.” I tell him.
” So fuckin boring. Horror Is better, Tinkerbell.” He says.
I roll my eyes and stop for a red light. I tap my fingers on the wheel and turn to look at Gray. I think we’re both not used to fighting.
” I’m really sorry for how I acted. It was stupid I think.” I tell him as he looks at me.
” You weren’t stupid. It’s fine. And I’m also sorry for stopping you. I was actually angry. I wasn’t expecting that though.” He says.
” Wanna drive?” I smirk at him.
He smirks and bites his bottom lip. I push back the car seat and crawl out of the seat over the center console as I sit on the back. Gray sits on the driver’s seat and I climb out of the backseat and sit on his lap.
” Shit…” he cusses when my booty relaxes on his lower region.
I cup his cheek and give him a quick, but passionate kiss.
” Holy Christ.” A lady mutters as she stares at us from her car through my car’s open window.
Her son smiles at us and try to peek his head out of the window.
” Get a room , you two horny children.” She yells and drives away. I chuckle, including Gray, as he begins driving.
” That was crazy.” I say and push a button to roll up the windows.
My windows are tinted just like every car Gray drives.
” So , as I was saying…” I trail off. Gray briefly looks at me before looking back at the road.
I situate both my knees on either side of him as I straddle him.
” Fuckin hell…” he cusses and rests one hand on my butt while the other steers the wheel.
” You’re making me hard, hope you know that.” He says and takes a deep breath.
” Make sure we don’t get killed.” I tell him and grind on him. Thank God for the dress. He cusses and grabs my butt.
I wrap my hands around his neck. I look back at the road and Gray’s driving terribly slow. I smirk at him and lean closer to him to kiss him. He returns the kiss as I grind on his erection.
” Sex in the car?” I ask him between the kiss and bite his bottom lip.
” Then I won’t be driving.” He winks at me and looks at the road. Thank God we’re not on a highway.
” Then stop the car.” I whisper and kiss his neck. Gray breathes out a moan.
I plant a soft kiss at the spot under his ear. A car drives by honking his loud horn. We pull away from each other as we laugh.
” We’re already close to the theatre. We should do this after your movie.” He says and spanks my booty.
I lean closer to him and capture his lips on mine. He removes his free hand from the wheel and grabs both my booty cheeks as we kiss. His right hand slide inside my dress as it runs down my thighs.
” We’re here.” He whispers and kisses my cheek.
I roll my eyes and get off his lap. How can he just turn me off like that? Just like that.
” You’re mad?” He asks and turns off the engine.
I shake my head and roll my eyes.
” Come here.” He pulls me out of the sit onto his lap and kisses me again.
” After your movies?” He asks and smirks at me.
” Okay.” I shrug and peck his lips before getting off his lap.
I push the buttons to the door as it opens upwards. I step out of the car and run my hands down my hair to tame it. Gray appears beside me and wraps his hand around my waist. He looks around the theatre and every single building as if he’s detecting a hidden enemy.
” Looking for something?” I ask him as we walk in.
” Snipers?” He kisses my hair and I nod.
” How can you easily detect that from here?”
” It’s a little difficult, but at the same time easy. Moskov is on the loose, any shit can happen.” He says as we pay for tickets.
He was serious about the horror movie. He buys two tickets for two movies. The romance and the horror. We find our seats and we sit down. I hold tight to the big popcorn as Gray wraps his arm around my shoulder. Few minutes into the movie Gray is already complaining.
” This shit’s boring as fuck.” He mutters and looks at me.
I stare at him and stuff popcorn into my mouth.
” You want?” I ask and flash him a smile.
He chuckles and motions for me to give him.
” Never thought you could eat popcorn.” I tell him and stuff it into his mouth.
” You make everything taste good.” He winks and chews on the popcorn.
” Is that a compliment?” I ask him.
” You’re missing the movie Ariel.” He smirks at me and looks back at the big screen.
” Can’t wait to take you out of here though.” He whispers and kisses my ear.
I gulp and keep my focus on the movie.
” Don’t try to make things worse for me.” I whisper without looking at him.
He chuckles softly and I can feel him smiling at me.
” Wanna try something naughty?” He whispers and bites my ear.
A breathy moan escapes my mouth. I shut my mouth and swat him on the chest. We’re at the theatre and he’s trying to turn me on. Who does that? He trails his right hand on my thigh as he kisses my neck. I grip onto his lap to keep me from moaning. He plants soft kisses on my neck up to my ear and he bites it. I moan and cover my mouth.
” Keep it calm Tinkerbell, will you?” He whispers.
Thank God the theatre is dark and everyone looks busy and focused on the movie. He slowly pushes my dress up and touch me through my panties.
” Gray…” I moan out his name silently. His lips seduces my neck as he slowly parts my leg. I still grip on his lap for dear life.
” Shh, princess.” He whispers against my skin and slips in a finger. I gasp and cover my mouth.
” Yeah , they are so cute and it’s emotional.” My next seat mate mutters. I turn to look at her but her focus is on the movie.
He slips his finger out and slide it back. He kisses my cheek down my neck. By dawn, it’s gonna leave a mark, that’s for sure. He doubles his fingers and increases the pace. I cover my mouth to muffle the moans. He smirks against my neck and slows down his finger.
” Fuck baby, you’re so wet.” He whispers and kisses down my neck.
” Wanna leave now? My penthouse.” He asks.
Without thinking, I nod.
****
I slowly slide down on him and lean down to kiss him. His palms squeezes my ass as we kiss. Our tongues glide together as he runs his hand down my back. I moan into his mouth and slide up and down on him. Our lips move in rhythm as I grind back and forth on him. He swiftly changes the position and he’s on top.
He kisses my lips and then moves down to my chest. His tongue swirls around my nipple as he tastes me. His thrusts are slow , gentle and then fast. He cups my boob and groans as he thrusts in and out of me. I feel my stomach clench as I near my orgasm. He leans closer to me and kisses me. I feel him twitch inside me as he breathes in and out against my neck.
****
I go through his closet after taking my bath. I put on his t-shirt and boxers and climbed back on the bed. Gray is still naked in bed with the comforter wrapped around himself as I cuddle next to me. He wraps his arm around my waist and kisses my hair and runs his hand down my back.
” Why get dressed?” He asks and furrows his brows.
I bite my lip and trail my finger on his tatted arm.
” You know why.” I say and turn around so my back is against him. His right arm wraps around my waist, as he pulls me closer to him.
” What’s up with Sinclair? Your new dad?” He asks.
Why’s he asking me now? We just got out of our fight and I’m not willing to fight again.
” What about him?” I ask him.
” I don’t know. You wanted to hangout.”
” Yeah. He wanted me to think about it. Till when I’m ready probably.” I shrug.
” So you’re still thinking?”
” I don’t really know. I really want to hang out with him. Eighteen years Gray.” I say and turn to look at him.
” You know I can’t stop you. That’s gonna be so unfair of me. I just want you to be careful. Moskov’s is insane and he wants to hurt you.”
I sigh and look away from him. I trail my finger on the ink on his wrist.
” What about your feud?”
” We ain’t beefing. Just don’t like each other.” He says.
” So what are you gonna do about it? You don’t like each other and you can’t bear to hangout with each other.”
” I don’t know.” He sighs.
My phone rings at once. I stretch to pick it up from the nightstand. I look at the dialer and it’s Sinclair. I lay on my back and rest my leg on Gray’s legs as I slide the answer icon.
” Hi Ariel.”
” Hey.” I say and look at Gray.
” You’re busy?”
” Well. Not really. I’m with Gray.”
” I was wondering if we could go get dinner together. Aisha likes to meet you also.”
Damn. That won’t be bad right?
” Okay. I’m gonna call you back.”
” Sure.” He hangs up and I take a deep breath. I keep my phone next to me on the bed and turn to look at Gray.
” He wants to hang out?” Gray asks.
” Kinda. Gray look , I have to. It’s just for a few hours and I’m gonna be back.”
” Alright.”
” Alright?” I ask. Did he just say alright? Just like that?
” It’s fine, I understand. Can’t stop you , I told you that.” He says and kisses my forehead.
His hand runs down my back to my butt as he kisses me.
” Thanks.” I smile at him and get out of his bed.
I quickly take off his t-shirt and briefs. I keep them back in his closet and put on my black dress. I stand opposite the full length mirror and run my hands down my hair. I turn to look at Gray and he’s staring back at me. I walk to the bed and give him a quick kiss.
” I’ll call you when I get there.”
” Be Careful.” I nod and put on my shoes and carry my phone as I walk out of his room.
****
Aisha smiles at me as she serves us dinner. She’s not really bad. She’s cute, with ebony skin and a nice smile. When I got here, I didn’t expect it to be a Mafia house. I didn’t see Cage or Ace but I saw De Luca when I got here. His features and everything aren’t friendly at all. He doesn’t smile or probably he doesn’t smile at me. Sinclair was kinda happy to see me. We hugged for a long time as Aisha welcomed me.
” Oh my God, I’m sorry I’m late.” A girl rushes in as she sits close to Aisha across from me and Sinclair.
She looks like Aisha and the same girl I met at the ball who called me a slut because I was talking to Cage. Sasha I think. Aisha’s daughter. Her braids are wrapped in a bun and she looks like she just got a tan.
” Hey Mom. Hi, Sin.” She greets. Sin? Not dad?
She looks at me as she scowls. Great, she won’t be fun.
” I think I know you. The little lady who was flirting with Cage at the ball. Are you Sinclair’s daughter?” She asks me.
” Sasha , behave please.” Aisha warns.
I look at her face and she’s got a white substance on her nose. Is that coke?
” You’ve got a little… some…” I point to my nose as I tell her.
Sasha wipes her nose and looks at her hand. Her mom glares at and she chuckles.
” Sorry, I was having a little fun.” She says to Sinclair and Aisha.
” Are you spending the night?” Sasha asks.
” No. I’m just here to have dinner and all that.” I say.
Aisha made garlic bread, omelette, fruits , pies and also lasagna. I sip my fruit juice and meet eyes with Sasha. I don’t like her.
” So , why a Mafia house?” I ask Sinclair.
” It’s temporary. We’re allies and we had a deal. Need to hang out here and all that.” Sinclair explains and I nod.
” What’s up with school? Heard you’re in college.” Sinclair says.
” Yeah. I’m in sophomore year and I’m majoring in business.” I answer.
” You’re in college? And I heard you’re dating Gray Carter.” Sasha butts in. I ignore her.
We talk mostly about me as we eat. Aisha asked me a few things about me and I told her. I help Aisha with the dishes as we take it to the kitchen. Sasha already disappears down the hall.
” Thanks for coming. Really appreciate it.” Aisha says. I smile at her and nod. She washes the dishes while I rinse and wipe it dry.
“And you cook really well though.” I tell her and she flashes me a genuine smile.
” Thanks Ariel. Glad you like it.” She smiles and we work in silence.
” So are you moving in? You know…”
” No…” I chuckle.” I can’t. Stay alone and all that.”
” Or Gray doesn’t like the idea.” She says.
” Not really. I can’t come between you two and all that. Also I kinda have my own apartment.” I tell her and she nods.
I wipe all the dishes and clean my hand with the napkin.
” Ariel , you’re through?” Sinclair asks as he stands beside the door.
” Sure.” I answer and walk to meet him. Still finding it hard to call him dad. Just don’t know why.
We walk in silence and enter an office. There’s a staircase that leads to the bottom. The basement. We climb down the stairs and it’s another office. This one is quite prettier. It has two brown couches. A desk and a chair. A bar filled with drinks. A chart for shooting and also a human kinda target stuff.
” Wow. This is pretty. Why the ally stuff with the italians?” I ask when I already know the answer to that. Gray of course.
” Lost half of my clients and stupid shit.” He says.” The Italians were the last option and also De Luca was a friend. He suggested we partner together.” He says.
I nod and walk to his desk. I pick up the M16 on his desk and pull out the cartridge. I place it back and pull the hammer.
” You know what you’re doing?” He asks. I chuckle and aim at the human kinda target. I squeeze the trigger and shoot.
” Who taught you how to shoot?”
” Same man you don’t like.” I say and continue to shoot.
He sighs and pours himself a glass of tequila.
” Did you want to? Or he suggested it?”
“I had to learn, dad. He is a mob boss and I needed the training.” I drop the assault rifle and sit on the couch.
” So… thought about reconciling?” I ask him.
” Gray?” He chuckles and drinks his wine.
” I don’t like the kid and I can’t stop you both either.”
” What if we wanna get married?” I ask him.
” Is he proposing?”
I huff.” Hell no.” I chuckle.”I’m just asking. I think this happened a long time ago. Eight years ago I think. Why the beef and the feud.”
” Did he tell you that? That we’re feuding and all that bullshit?”
” He didn’t tell me that. He said you don’t like each other and all that.” I sigh. ” My point is, why not move ahead of it. It hurts, I know. Our family owns the American Mafia. Gray took it away from us. Damn that’s painful.”
” My point exactly. It resulted in me being an ally to the italians. I’m trying to build back the mob and thankfully it’s working.” He says. I nod.
God I feel sick again.
” Can I?” I motion to the glass of tequila.
” You drink?”
I shake my head sideways.
” Kinda sick.” I say. He nods and gives me his glass. I chug down the liquid and drop the glass.
” I gotta go , it’s late. I’ll come to spend the weekend.” I say and stand up.
” Sure.”
” Where’s Cage?”
” Are you guys like friends?” He asks as he walks me out.
” Yeah. He’s a good person.”
” He went out. Business.” Sinclair replies.
We walk out of his office and I decide to bid Aisha good bye. She hugs me and I leave afterwards.
****
Gray speeds into the dark night as the pop music plays at an average volume.
” I see no reason why you love romance movies seriously.” He mutters.
Since I didn’t get to finish my movie earlier today I made sure we watch the movie again in a different theatre. Can’t watch in peace if we didn’t change the theatre. Memories and all that. After my dinner with Sinclair, I didn’t tell Gray I talked to my dad about him. I can’t bear to see his reactions.
” You made me watch horror.” And yes I freaked out at every single minute of the movie. He was unaffected. Watched it like it was one of Kennedy’s cartoons.
” And you liked it.”
” Gray, I freaked out.” I tell him and stuff cotton candy inside my mouth.
” The romance was boring. Same normal ending. The boy apologized, they kiss and fuck, movie is over. There is always this heroine everyone likes. Horror, there’s barely a hero. Every single hero might end up dying.”
” Jesus.” I huff and stuff the last cotton in my mouth.
New York looks a bit busy tonight. I know it’s always busy because it’s New York. The street lights illuminate the city as I watch people drive by and walk by. I look at the side mirror and something catches my attention. We’ve got company. Not again.
” Gray, a….”
” I know.” He says and looks briefly at his side mirror.
A biker is on our tail and he or she has a helmet.
” Moskov?” I ask Gray and open his compartment to bring out a gun.
” Obviously. He might have sent that dude.” He says, like it’s nothing.
We approach the bridge and the biker increases it’s pace. I see him pull out a gun as he shoots my side mirror out.
” Jesus Christ.” I mutter.
” Breathe princess. Wanna drive?”
” I’ll be fine.” I wind down the window and poke myself out of the window as I aim at the biker. He ducks and drives beside another car.
” Do you have another gun aside a handgun?” I ask and sit back in the car. The biker shoots at the car as Gray swerves the car to the left.
We lost both sides of the mirror, I can’t see him anymore.
” Check the backseat.” He says as he increases the pace of the car.
The biker drives to the side of the car with his gun ready to aim. I pull the trigger and shoot him on the shoulder. He groans and falls off his bike.
” Good. Never seen you shoot outside of practice.” He says as someone shoots at the car
” I thought it’s just a biker.”
” There are like two cars behind us.” Gray says as he overtakes a vehicle in front of us.
I open the duffel bag in his car and pull out an assault rifle.
” Open the sunroof, will you?” I tell him as I load the gun.
The sunroof slowly opens, I stand on the center console of the car and he’s right. We got three cars on our tail beside the biker. I aim at the car upfront and shoot at the tyres.
” Careful , Tinkerbell.” Gray says as he handles the wheel.
The car jerks backwards and slams itself on another car. The two cars increase it’s pace and the driver pulls out their guns.
” Oh shit.” I sit back in the car at once.
” Bend down.” Gray tells me
I cover one ear and make sure I’m not open for any shot.
I see the bridge close by and I don’t know why I feel relieved. They continue to shoot at the car as Gray overtakes every other car. When the shooting stops, I stand back up and shoot at both cars making sure both driver and passenger don’t survive. A biker speeds to the driver’s side of the car as I shoot at him. I sit back in the car and push the button to retract the sunroof.
” You’re okay?” He asks as he looks at me.
I take a deep breath and relax my nerves. Two attacks in two days. This is getting too much.
” I’m good.” I nod and wind both windows up.
Before I can notice what’s happening, A car from the side slams itself against ours as it hurls violently to the side. Before I can pull out my gun to shoot at the other vehicle, a headlight shines brightly at the windshield. The car at the side slammed harder against our car as a bullet pierced through the windshield right into Gray.
I scream as my head hits against the dashboard and Gray’s already bleeding from a gunshot. He’s already passing out. ” Oh my God. Gray…” I sob.
The car hurls off the bridge, hits the barricades, as the car falls off the bridge down to the cold water beneath us.