“If anyone is ever mean to you again, don’t hesitate to tell me.” His voice is stern, but still filled with concern.
I nod in agreement as he pulls me away to wipe the tears from my eyes. “I didn’t mean to get emotional. It just hurt to hear what she said.”
“We’ll discuss that later. You ready to go?”
The coast is clear as we head off. I’m thankful he stood up for me, but I just wish none of this happened. The first day I show up at his job, one of his employees gets fired because of me. How embarrassing. I wish I told her off and went on with my day.
I let out a long yawn as my eyes grow heavy, tired from the early morning. “Do you have a coffee machine at the apartment?”
“Yes, the realtor said it’s completely furnished. But I haven’t gotten a chance to get groceries, so no coffee.”
“Want to go to a cafe? There’s one near my new place.”
I nod happily.
We pull up in front of the brick building that is swanky and different from the Dunkin Donuts by my place. Aiden pays for my large latte against my wishes, but I’m thankful. I really need to get a job. I look for a seat while Aiden waits for our drinks. I’m on my phone when the chair in front of me slides out and I look up to find a man in his twenties staring down at me.
He eyes me with interest. “Hey, mind if I sit with you?” Not waiting for my answer, he takes a seat.
“Actually...” I begin but I’m cut off when Aiden sets my latte in front of me.
“Hey princess.” He scowls as he eyes the man. “Up,” He demands.
I watch the stranger get up and walk away. “What was that about? He didn’t know I was with anyone. Why are you so territorial?”
He laughs, covering my hand. “I told you, beautiful. You’re mine.”
Eight
It’s dark out by the time we arrive at Aiden’s new apartment.
His realtor greets us, handing Aiden his new keys. “Hello Mr. Scott, I hope you and your...” She trails off as she looks at me, extending her hand with a warm smile. “I’m Paula. It’s nice to meet you!”
I return her handshake. “I’m Emma. It’s my pleasure.”
Aiden’s lips curve into a small smile at my formality.
“Mr. Scott, your apartment is fully furnished. If you have any issues, please do not hesitate to call me.”
“Thank you very much, Paula.” Aiden guides me into the elevator and pushes the button to the penthouse.
The elevator door opens, and I’m taken aback when I see a large open living room. I had expected a hallway leading to multiple apartments.
I look at Aiden in surprise. “This whole floor is one apartment?”
He laughs as he undoes his cuffs. “Of course, it is. It’s a penthouse.” He throws his jacket on the rack. “I’ll be back in a moment. I’m going to hop in the shower. Wanna join?” He winks.
I shake my head.
“I ordered us food. It should be here any moment.” He calls out as he leaves.
I take in the modern and masculine architecture. The white floors and walls contrast with the black leather furniture that adorns the living room. The kitchen and dining room have a similar setup, but what truly takes my breath away is the view. The city skyline is so close.
The chime of the doorbell echoes throughout the house. With a grumbling stomach, I dash to the door to retrieve our food. I wonder what he ordered.
A man stands on the other side of the door, empty handed. He’s covered in tattoos and is as tall as Aiden. He’s not as muscular but he’s still pretty fit. He looks off, scary even. His eyes rake up and down my body as he stands in silence. He definitely isn’t the deliveryman.
“Can I help you?” My voice trembles slightly. Alarm bells go off in my head when he remains silent. Ashley’s voice reminding me that Aiden works with bad men penetrates my brain.
I attempt to slam the door shut, but he slaps a large palm against it and pushes it open with ease. The gesture frightens me, and I jump, letting out a slight yelp.
Where is Aiden?
I watch as the stranger paces around the room before coming to stand in front of me, a little too close for comfort. Dad was a police officer and I often listened to him tell Mom about certain cases. I note his demeanor. He isn’t twitchy or sluggish, so no drugs. Angry and paranoid? Yes.
I back away, attempting to head towards Aiden’s room but he pushes me against the wall.
“Where is he?” The stranger demands. His voice has an accent. Italian, maybe?
“In…in the…bathroom,” I stutter, hoping he will be out of there soon.
The man smiles creepily at me, tucking a lock of hair that fell out of place behind my ear. “Maybe I can take you for payment.”
I shudder at his touch and stiffen in fear. My mind races, but my worries melt away when I see a pissed off Aiden stalking his way towards us. His dark hair is wet from the shower and he only has gray sweatpants on.
Aiden yanks the man away, pinning him by his throat. His eyes darken as he holds the man in place.
I let out a sigh of relief.
“Se la tocchi di nuovo, ti ucciderò.” His voice is deep and full of venom.
I try to decipher Aiden’s words but he’s speaking in another language. Italian, definitely Italian. I wish I could understand what he was saying.
“Sweetheart, can you go to the balcony for a moment? And don’t look inside.” His voice has softened but it still holds a note of anger.
I nod, more than happy to get away from whatever is going on. I slam the balcony door shut behind me. But the anticipation is too much, and it isn’t long before
