Luka's POV
I'm not even able to describe how nervous I am. But I know I have to do it. I know that if Jasmine was here, she would like to visit them. Besides, I owe it to her. Especially after everything what happened...
I finally gathered myself and knocked the door. I immediately started walking around nervously, because of that fucking waiting. Then, I finally heard opening door and I saw some middle-aged woman. When, I saw her... I felt like I just saw Jasmine.
Woman: Hello? - She looked at me questioningly - Can I help you somehow?
Luka: No - I said quickly - I mean... Yes... - I started rubbing my face.
Of course, when I'm getting nervous, I don't know what I'm talking about. Just great.
Woman: Are you okay?
Luka: My name is Luka McKing - I took a deep breath and finally said that - I'm Jasmine's boyfriend.
Then, I saw that smile immediately appeared on woman's face. I got a bit confused and narrowed my eyes at her.
Luka: What? - I laughed.
Grace: Grace - She held out her hand to me - It's such a pleasure to finally meet you, Luka. Jasmine has told me a lot about you.
Luka: Really? - I got even more confused and shook her hand.
Grace: Yes - She laughed and put her hand on my shoulder - Well... Jasmine hasn't told me yet that you two are finally together. Actually... - She sighed - I haven't been in touch with her for several days. Where is she? - She started looking around - Is she in Australia too?
Luka: I promise I'll tell you everything, okay? - I sighed and looked at her.
Then, Grace smiled at me one more time and invited me to her house. I peeked at Jake and Elena one last time and nodded to them that I'm safe.
Man: Mom? - I heard someone's voice from some room - Are you expecting any other guests than your favorite sons?
When I heard that I immediately turned pale. Great, both brothers are at home now. Just great, now I'm even more sure I'll be dead.
Grace: Oh, shut up, James - She laughed - You won't believe who visited us!
Then, I saw them. Two tall, black-haired, well-built men. They left some room and when they saw me, they looked at me questioningly.
James: Have I ever threatened you? - He pointed at me.
Luka: Not yet - I swallowed and hardly smiled.
Grace: It's Luka McKing - She said excited - Luka, there's James and Dylan, Jasmine's older brothers.
James: Wait, wait... - He started approaching me and narrowed his eyes even more - THAT Luka?
Grace: Yes, that Luka - She laughed.
James: That Luka who has been friendzoning my beloved, little sister for the last ten years? - He stood in front of me and crossed his arms on his chest.
Luka: In my defense, I have to say that recently I almost died and confessed my love to her - I raised my finger - And we're finally together. Somehow... - I started scratching my head and grimaced.
Dylan: So, you fucked my sister? - He stood in front of me and crossed his arms on his chest as well.
Luka: Me? - I pointed at myself - Oh, no, no - I started nodding - I'm a gentleman and I don't fuck with women after the first date.
James: So, you are already experienced with fucking women, do I understand it right?
Luka: I'm clean as a whistle - I said proudly.
Dylan: Since you're inexperienced, you won't satisfy my little sister well enough - He was still firm.
Luka: Did I just say I'm clean as a whistle? - I swallowed - I meant... I'm boor as a... Dickcissel!
They looked at each other questioningly and narrowed their eyes. Just great, I'm definitely improving my current, and already shitty situation.
Grace: Oh, come on, boys - She laughed and touched my back - You're gonna scare him!
All the time they were looking at me with their narrowed eyes. So, Jasmine wasn't joking. They're really protective towards her.
Man: Grace? - He shouted from the room too - What is this all about for God's sake?
Grace: Henry? - She sounded excited - Move your ass here! You won't believe who visited us!
Great... Right next to the brothers who have "I will kill you for whatever you say about my little sister" faces, will stand the father with the "what did you do to my little daughter?" face. Now, I'm sure. I'm dead.
Henry: What? - He left the room and looked at straight at me and narrowed his eyes at me - Have I ever threatened you? - He pointed at me.
Luka: Can we just say that no one has threatened me here yet? - I looked around and started gesticulating.
James: What do you mean "yet"?
Luka: It depends - I put my hands on my hips and sighed.
James: On what? - He got even more confused.
Luka: On whether the door is still open so that I can run away from there - I nodded at the door.
Grace: Oh, don't be ridiculous, Luka - She started nodding and laughed - They won't hurt you. They only want to scare you like that.
Henry: Will I find out who are you? - He was still confused.
Luka: Also depends - I sighed again.
Henry: On what?
Luka: On whether you're armed or not.
Henry: Well... - He started looking around himself - Not yet. I left the gun under the bed and the knife in the kitchen, why?
Luka: Because... - I stood behind Grace and grabbed her shoulders to cover myself - I'm Luka McKing.
Henry: You've got to be kidding me! - He approached me furious.
Luka: Cheater! - I pointed at the scissors in his hand - You said you're not armed. That's not fair! - I took offense.
Henry: What? - He looked at his hand confused - Oh... - He noticed the scissors and smirked - I knew it would be useful.
I swallowed and started taking steps back. You know what? Fuck it. I've changed my mind. I almost died a few days ago, I don't want a repeat of that little entertainment.
Grace: Jasmine's boyfriend is about to run away because of you! - She sighed, turned to me and grabbed my hand - You'll stay here.
Henry: Jasmine's boyfriend? - He stood right next to James and Dylan and crossed his arms on his chest as well - It's impossible. Jasmine doesn't have a boyfriend
Luka: Yes, you're right - I smiled and pointed at him - I must have mistaken the houses... - I started scratching my head - And surnames.... Sometimes I'm just raving, don't worry about it. Sorry for disturbing you. It was such a pleasure to meet you - I smiled, slightly waved and started taking steps back again - And you? - I pointed at Jasmine's father - Awesome scissors, really. I'll buy that one for myself too.
Grace: You'll stay here! - She looked at me annoyed and pulled me to her again.
Luka: Oh, come on! - I groaned exhausted - Now I know after who Jasmine is so stubborn!
James&Henry&Dylan: Excuse me?
Luka: Hey! 3vs1? That's not fair - I took offense again.
Grace: It's not 3vs1, it's 3vs2, but it doesn't matter anyway, because I'm the boss here - She looked at them again and pointed at them - You will just touch Luka and you will regret it. Understood?
Henry: Grace, don't be...
Grace: Don't even dare start messing with me, Henry. Should I start now? - She asked firmly.
Henry: No - He sighed and took offense.
Grace: And you? - She pointed at James and Dylan.
All the time they were looking at me with their narrowed and analysing eyes. Even when I moved, they followed me with their furious eyes.
Luka: Nah, don't bother them - I patted her shoulder and sighed with my smile - I was about to leave anyway.
Then, I tried to walk away, but of course she grabbed my hand again.
Luka: Oh, come on! - I groaned annoyed again.
Grace: You're coming with me - She said firmly and she pulled me with her.
Grace led me to the room that James, Dylan and Henry had left earlier. I started looking around and saw that it was a dining room with a kitchen.
Luka: Pretty nice room - I smirked - It would take you a long time to wash my blood off the walls.
Grace: They won't hurt you, Luka - She laughed - You're pretty funny, you know? This is exactly how I imagined you.
Luka: Do you have some back exit here? - I started looking around - I can escape before they come here.
Grace: You won't escape, Luka! - She laughed again - Sit down on your ass and don't even try to make a move - She pushed me into a chair - Perfect.
Luka: You're definitely Jasmine's mother - I mumbled angrily and sighed - That's for sure.
Grace: Do you want some tea? - She approached the kitchen.
Luka: In my current situation, even pure vodka won't help me - I sighed and started rubbing my face.
Grace laughed again and then, James, Henry and Dylan entered the room too. Of course they immediately started looking for me and when they finally saw me, they narrowed theirs eyes again.
Luka: In my defense... - I raised my finger and rested my head on the other hand - I wanted to escape. She's keeping me here - I pointed at Grace emotionlessly.
Dylan: But I'm still confused - He sat down in front of me - If you're here, where's Jasmine? And why are you here after all?
Luka: Nah, long story - I slightly waved - It's not even worth starting.
James: We have plenty of time, Luka - He sat in front of me next to Dylan.
Luka: Perfect - I clapped and looked at them - If you both have time then you can spend it together. I have a lot of work to do now anyway... - I tried to got up, but of course Grace blocked me - Seriously? - I looked at her annoyed.
Grace: Here - She made all of us some tea and smiled at me.
Dylan: Where the fuck is my sister? - He said as slow and as furious as he could.
Luka: Well... - I started scratching my head and then I looked at them. I saw they are furious, but simultaneously, they were worried as hell. That's why I took a deep breath and closed my eyes - Fine, I promised myself that I would tell you everything. Just... Can I leave my testament somewhere? - I peeked at Grace - It's only a few pages, it won't take up much space.
Grace: I like you, Luka - She laughed again and sat down next to me - Now, I'm not even surprised that Jasmine is madly in love with you.
When I heard that I immediately looked at her again started smiling. So, Jasmine didn't lie to me, she really gets along very well with her mom. I'm sure she told her everything about me and her. But... Was I really that important to her from the very beginning? And another question... Did Jasmine tell her mother about everything I've done to her?
James: As far as I heard you two finally wanted to move on, is that right? - He looked at me appraisingly - What suddenly changed your mind, huh?
Okay, so Jasmine definitely told them about everything. So, she must have been really hurt after that day in Greece. Just great. I don't deny wishing that she would be kidnapped a bit later, so she could pacify them a bit, but... I see I have to do it all by myself.
Luka: Let's say that next to Jasmine I'm losing my common sense and talking nonsense... Yes, it's like that most of the time.
Dylan: How do I know that you won't break my sister's heart again soon, because you will "suddenly" change your mind again?
Luka: Because... - I sighed - I met Jasmine 10 years ago and fell madly in love with her the moment she looked in my eyes for the first time. Did I fuck up everything at the very beginning? Yes. I was just... Jasmine became my best friend from the very beginning. After a few years of our friendship, I was so fucking close to tell her about my feelings, but... Then, the argument between Jake and Jacob happened - I mumbled angrily.
Henry: Yes, I know about this case - He said firmly.
Luka: Jake is like my brother, so please understand me... - I looked at James and Dylan - Please, understand me why I change my attitude towards everyone, even towards Jasmine. This whole shit changed me too, not only Jake. I know I wasn't able to create a happy relationship with Jasmine back then. I was too hurt and I wasn't ready. I distanced myself from Jasmine to protect her. I would do everything to protect her, that's why I wanted to spare her suffering with that formal and cold version of me during all these years.
James: So, you preferred her to live for the last 10 years in the fucking friend zone with you?
Luka: Honestly? Yes - I said firmly - Believe me, Jasmine would suffer a lot more with relationship with me back then than in the friend zone. Besides, I couldn't lose her. I knew that if I had started a relationship with her at that time, I would've lost her immediately. I couldn't let it happen. At the time, Jasmine was the only one who helped me handle the situation with Jake. That's why she became my friend even more. I know about her literally everything, so is she.
Dylan: I don't get it, Luka - He touched his forehead - Jake has been back for a while now and is what he used to be thanks to Elena and you still didn't start a relationship with Jasmine anyway. Moreover, you wanted to move on. Something is wrong here.
Luka: Will you believe me if I tell you I don't know? - I looked at them with my grimaced face.
Dylan&James&Henry: Yes and no - They said firmly.
Luka: Well... That's something - I smirked - So, I'm sure that you know why we started our trip around the world...
James: Mhm, to find some Maria, right? Her husband is your client?
Luka: Exactly. So, after all these years I've been so close to Jasmine... That I can't imagine my life without her. Me and Jasmine are best friends, best partners in action and work, and like a good old marriage - I slightly smirked - But... - Smile faded from my face - That's why I was so scared. I was so scared that I wouldn't be good enough for her as her boyfriend... I was just afraid that I would destroy everything. If we didn't get along in the relationship, I would lose not only an amazing girlfriend, but also my best friend who was always there next to me for the last 10 years. Jasmine deserves everything the best, you know. I was terrified that I wouldn't be able to give her that.
Henry: So, that's why you wanted to move on? Because you just gave up on her?
Luka: You can call me everything, but I never gave up on Jasmine, not even for a moment - I looked at him and said firmly - In Greece... - I sighed - Everything was just so... Complicated - I mumbled angrily and started rubbing my face - Jasmine has changed, so have I. Can you believe that Jasmine I have knew for the last 10 years was the nice, quiet, shy and calm one? - I smirked.
Henry: You're raving - He started nodding - Jasmine? Calm and quiet? Bullshit.
Luka: I'm dead serious! - I burst out laughing - And I used to be just the same like that! For the last 10 years, we've been pretending to be people who we have never been. Why? I have already told you it was because of that whole Jake's affair. But in Greece... - I sighed with my smile and started nodding - Everything changed. You see... I am not holy. When I was young, I did a lot of crazy and illegal things. When I was 16 I escaped from the orphanage with Jake and started my journey around the world with him. Well... - I sighed - Okay, I want to be honest with you, I enjoyed my life as much as I could. I don't count how many women I've fucked with. Sometimes it was even several at once... - I grimaced and peeked at them, they were furious of course. Then, I sighed and looked into theirs eyes - But, now I want to tell you something very important. Since the day I met Jasmine, since she looked in my eyes for the first time, I haven't fucked a single woman. Moreover, I didn't even look at any woman other than Jasmine. Why? I didn't feel such a need. I had Jasmine next to me. My best friend. I didn't need any other woman next to me.
James: You haven't really fucked anyone in the last 10 years? - He looked at me questioningly.
Luka: Nope, like I said, I didn't even look at any other woman. But in Greece... - I sighed again - Our true sides have met and... At first we argued a lot and I mean, really bad. We couldn't get along with each other at all. I started playing with her, but so did she! I would never have expected that Jasmine is so sneaky, mischievous, maneater and just... Bon vivant! The real me is just the same, that's why... I guess I tried too hard, but she was unbearable too. One day... I just had enough. Due to Elena and Jake's accident in Harvard all responsibility fell on me. At that time, I had to make many really important decisions that would affect Maria's life. You can imagine how stressed I was. Just... Think to yourself that your decision affects whether someone dies or not. And Jasmine... She kept telling me I was making the wrong decisions...
Henry: Maybe she was right?
Luka: No, she wasn't. Later I spoke to Jake and Elena and they confirmed that I was making the right decisions. So, imagine that you are so stressed out and the person who should be supporting you is not helping you. Moreover, that person is getting you down even more. At that day... I've had enough. After all these days... - I sighed - Jasmine and I argued again and I just left her in the hotel restaurant. I was on my way to our hotel room, but I was so furious and lost in my thoughts and I didn't looked where I was going and I walked into some woman...
James: Mhm... - He became even more furious - A woman you said.
Luka: Yes - I sighed - She spilled hot coffee on me. Of course she started apologising me and she said that she will make up for me destroying my shirt, but I didn't care about it. All I wanted was to go to my fucking room, but Zoe was so... Stubborn. She grabbed my hand and she took me to her hotel room.
Henry: Excuse me? - He got up from the table and looked at me furiously.
Luka: It's not the right time to kill me yet, believe me - I stopped him with my hands and he sat down again - So, Zoe gave my a new shirt and it turned out she's the DIC fashion designer. I didn't recognize her because we do all transactions remotely. I never met her personally before. Then, she started... Oh, fine! She bought me, okay? She saw my state and began to manipulate me. She started asking questions about me, my life, if I'm dating someone, everything. She just knew what to say to me at that moment. Then... - I sighed - We started kissing...
James: What?! - He got up just like Henry.
Luka: I know it was stupid, but can you put yourself in my shoes? - I sighed again - Next to her I was feeling like a fucking God! But now I know it was wrong and false impression. Then... We were about to fuck, but... I stopped.
Dylan: What?
Luka: You have no fucking idea how much I wanted that. After all these years, after all these days of arguing with Jasmine who wasn't even my girlfriend at that time... But I couldn't - I shrugged - All the time I was thinking about Jasmine and I just stopped. After that Zoe said proudly that she was right I'm in love with Jasmine, because a few minutes earlier I spilled the tea in front of her about Jasmine. Later, me and Zoe chatted all night. She started to convince me that Jake and Jasmine's behavior towards me was not okay and... I just believed in that. That's why, when I came back to mine and Jasmine's room in the morning I said we should move on. I was sick of her and this whole sick situation between us. Moreover, I was still in some amok after talking to Zoe. Besides, Jasmine was the one who was talking about moving on all the time - I shrugged again - She wanted to move on first. But after that... Something changed...
James: What? - He sat down again.
Luka: From that moment on, we got along with each other well again. Really. The situation between us was so relaxed that we never quarreled once. Then I realised that if there was no "aura of love" between us, then everything was okay. At that moment I thought it was the key. I just thought that Jasmine and I were never meant to be a couple. But... I just couldn't move on. As soon as I saw that motherfucker contacted her... - I mumbled angrily.
Grace: Who? - She narrowed her eyes at me.
Luka: Xavier. She met him in the Washington at the party where she and I got drunk and high. You know, the day before Elena's accident at Harvard.
Grace: She never told me about him? - She looked questioningly at the others.
James: Don't look at me like that - He shrugged - She didn't tell you, of course let alone me.
Luka: Anyway - I continued - I couldn't move on, because I'm so incredibly in love with her. That's why when I saw he contacted her again I was about to explode because of me jealousy - I slightly laughed - Of course it confused her even more, but me too. Believe me, until today I don't understand my behaviour towards her. Everything was just fine... Until she saw Zoe's message on my phone.
Henry: What did she text to you?
James: And how did Jasmine see the message?
Luka: We switched our phones - They looked at each other questioningly again - See? I told you it was complicated - I laughed - I mean, when I saw Xavier's message to her I took her phone. Of course she started her complaints so I gave her my phone and we were even. While Jasmine was taking a photo of some particular place, she saw the message from Zoe on my phone. Well... At that moment Jasmine didn't know I didn't fuck Zoe so she was... Devastated. I mean, I wasn't aware of that, because I went to Zoe's room right away. She wanted to thank me for talking to her about her problems and when I came back to our room 30 minutes later, Jasmine was already asleep. A few days later Jake made me realise what happened, because Jasmine called Elena and she was... Broken. She was sure I slept with Zoe and I replaced her like that... - I snapped my fingers - That's why Jasmine was so determined to move on. It was because she thought I moved on as well and fucked some random woman who I met a few hours earlier.
Dylan: So, you broke my sister's heart? - He became furious and got up too.
Luka: I wasn't even aware of that, okay? - I sighed - I didn't know she read the message and I didn't know she was crying in our hotel room. The next day she was acting normal, how could I know? - I shrugged - But as soon as I found out about it I knew I had to do something. I couldn't let Jasmine think I would ever treat her like that. That's why I decided to apologise her for everything. I apologized to her for everything I've done to her in the last 10 years. I explained to her that I didn't want to start a relationship with her because I was afraid of losing her. I told her about my feelings and told her I never fucked Zoe. Honestly? At that moment, I was sure I had lost her forever and I told her the same. I said I was aware that I had lost my chance but it's okay, because all what matters to me is her happiness, no matter who she is with. And I really meant it. Jasmine deserves everything the best and if Xavier was supposed to be the the one who could give it to her, I would be able to live with it... Somehow. When I finally said that, I wanted to came back to the house where we stayed, but she grabbed my hand and told me that I didn't lose my chance. Jasmine told me that she's just confused and needs more time. Of course I said her that's I would be able to wait all eternity for her to be ready. Then... - I slightly smiled - We almost kissed, but our friend interrupted us.
James: So, you've been together since then?
Luka: No - Smile faded from my face - We were supposed to go to Kenya the next day. My friend from Greece warned us about the riots in Kenya and...
Henry: Did you go to Kenya to the middle of the fucking riots? - He started walking around the room nervously.
Luka: We had to. We don't have much time to find Maria, we couldn't wait for Elena and Jake to be discharged.
Dylan: But you might have taken some bodyguards with you for God's sake! - He got up too.
Luka: We didn't have time for it either - I started nodding - Believe me, if we were to get our bodyguards, they'd get to Kenya halfway through our stay. Besides, most of the security guards were in the hospital with Elena and Jake. But... The riots weren't our biggest problem - I sighed and got up from the room and started walking nervously too.
Grace: Luka... - She looked at me terrified - What happened?
Then, I started stressing even more. Whenever I only think about this fucking Kenya, I want to throw up. I leaned against the kitchen island and lowered my head. I don't even know how to tell them this. I don't give a shit about it that they'll kill me. I care about it that they'll be incredibly worried.
Dylan: What did you do to my sister? - He grabbed my shirt and mumbled furiously.
Grace: Dylan for God's sake! - She take him away from me - Control yourself!
Dylan: I can see that something is wrong here, mom! - He became even more furious - This motherfucker did something to Jasmine! - He pointed at me.
Grace: Luka... - She touched my back and her voice cracked - You need to tell us what happened.
I took a deep breath and looked at them again. I saw that they already started worrying about her. Just great...
James: Now you're speechless? - He got up again and crossed his arms on his chest.
Luka: I... - I sighed and started rubbing my face - For several days I have been wondering whether to come here at all. I talked with Jasmine about you and she told me how important you are to her. Honestly? I really envy her. Jasmine has a complete, beautiful and loving family. Just like... - I slightly smiled at them - I used to have. But I lost everything in the fucking fire 20 years ago. That's why... I decided to come to you and tell you what happened. All I ask you is... - I walked by the window - Please don't kill me until I finish my speaking, okay?
They looked at each other with their furious eyes and started thinking. Then, Henry sighed and nodded at James and Dylan. Thanks to that they finally sat down again.
Luka: Thanks... - I sighed - So, believe me or not, but all the time I was keeping my eyes on Jasmine. Moreover, I asked her to promise me that she wouldn't go anywhere in Kenya without me. She knew I would be able to protect her, but I just needed to be all the time next to her. So, Jasmine promised me that and I was a bit calmer. There was a situation in some bar. The group of some rebels have been bullying the bar's owner for the last few months, because of Joe King, Maria's husband. Joe is a motherfucker and start a fight with some man. Bar's owner really liked Maria so he decided to help her. He grabbed Maria and Joe and helped them escape. That's why the rebel thought that the bar's owner knows them and was helping them hiding. When I was in that bar... They came back again and wanted to destroy his bar. I couldn't let that happen - I shrugged - Why this man was supposed to be responsible for Joe King's madness? That's why I stood up for him. I told them I know Joe King and I know where he is. Of course all theirs attention was on me, that's why I asked bar's owner to take Jasmine from the bar immediately.
James: You we're sure they would hurt you - He narrowed his eyes at me.
Luka: Yes, that's why I must have taken Jasmine from the bar. I couldn't let them touch her. Let's say that... - I slightly laughed and started scratching my head - I'd rather talk than fight. Jake is the responsible one who takes care of the dirty work here. The ability of speaking is my secret weapon. That's why I started talking to the rebel. I explained him everything and then I told him that I would tell him my name and where Joe is only if he promised me he would leave the bar's owner alone. It turned out that I know that man. His name's Jaali and I saved his sister from being raped 13 years ago when I was in Kenya with Jake - They looked at each other with their shocked face - Jaali promised me that he would leave him alone and moreover, that I would be untouchable in the whole Kenya. I think Jaali is some king of rebel's boss or something - I smirked and then, smile faded from my face again - Of course when I left the bar I saw that Jasmine was sitting safely in the car. When she saw I left the bar in one piece, she ran into my arms and she asked me to promise that I would never put myself in such a danger ever again. Then we returned safely to the hotel. But the next day this nightmare happened... - I mumbled furiously.
James: The nightmare?
Luka: I don't know why, but as soon as I woke up I had a strange feeling that something bad was about to happen. That's why I asked Jasmine to stay in the hotel room and wait for me, but... - I mumbled angrily - She was so stubborn! Of course she wanted to help me, but... - I touched my eyes and started rubbing it.
Dylan: Yes, she's stubborn as hell - She slightly laughed.
Luka: That's why she went to the pawn shop with me. She wrapped the pawnbroker around her little finger! - I laughed - Before we went to the pawn shop I saw some suspicious men. I asked her again to stay in the car once again, but of course she didn't even listen to me. When he finally left the pawn shop, these men accosted us. At first, they just wanted some money, because they were sure that due to the fact we were in the pawn shop, we have some money. Of course I immediately covered Jasmine and took her behind my back so they didn't see her, but then... - I became furious again - They recognised me as Jake's friend. This made them even more sure that we had a lot of money with us. They started talking some shit about Jake and they provoked me. I got closer to them and then, they pushed me against the metal gate and for a moment I was... Dizzy.
Grace: Are you okay? - She looked at me with her worried eyes.
Luka: Believe me, the worst is yet to come - I sighed - Then, they started approaching Jasmine, because unfortunately, they noticed her.
James: What?! - She shouted furiously and got up again.
Luka: They started talking some bullshit again about raping her in front of my eyes. Of course, she knew how to defend herself, because all DIC workers have to pass self-defense training. For a moment it worked, because she twisted man's hand, but it... It only made him even more furious. As soon as I have regained control of my body I approached them from behind. They set Jasmine into trap and they were holding a knife. Well... The fact that I don't like violence and I don't like fighting doesn't mean that I can't do it. It's just... I just use violence when I really don't see any other option to resolve the shitty situation. Of course I immediately helped Jasmine and put these assholes to the ground. Then, I shouted to Jasmine to run away to the car. Meanwhile, I was dealing with the second man, I noticed that some third man blocked Jasmine way to the car. Of course he was holding a knife as well. I hit the second man so hard that he finally passed out and ran towards Jasmine. Then I saw this... - I sighed - The third man started running towards Jasmine with the knife... - I leaned against the table - I couldn't let anything happen to her. That's why I... - I sighed - I grabbed her and I pushed her aside. She avoided being hurt of course, but because of that... That motherfucker stabbed me with the knife in my stomach.
Grace: My goodness! - She stood up immediately and got closer to me.
James: You covered her? - He looked at me questioningly again.
Luka: Yes. Then, Jaali appeared at the last moment and helped us. Jasmine was totally okay, but I... My stomach started to bleed a lot. Of course Jasmine was terrified and begged Jaali for help. They took me to the car and we were on our way to the nearest hospital. Jaali told Jasmine to sit down next to me and help me while he was driving. Then... - I sighed again and looked at them - Honestly? I was sure I would die, literally. That's why I confessed my love to Jasmine. Yes, we were on our way to the hospital, Jasmine was sitting next to me and cried a lot and I decided to tell her about my feelings during this time. Why not? - I laughed - I just... - I shrugged - I thought I would die anyway so I had nothing to lose anymore. To my surprise Jasmine told me that she loves me back and then she kissed me - I started smiling and nodding - Believe me, although I was dying, I felt like in a fucking heaven. But after a few moments I just lost consciousness and I woke up in the hospital an hour later. Fortunately, they saved me in the last moment and they gave me a huge dose of painkillers so I was able to come back to the hotel. You know... The condition of hospitals in Kenya is tragic and it was much safer to send me home. Jasmine and I left the hospital and when we were about to enter the car, I grabbed her hand and... - I started smiling again - Disregarding all the details, I asked her about her answer to my question.
Henry: What question?
Luka: If she wants to be with me. And I mean, officially. I didn't want to make the same mistake again. I didn't want any misunderstandings between us like we had for the last ten years. Of course she started messing with me, but then she finally answered that yes, she wanted to be with me and from that moment on we have been together.
Dylan: Okay, so... - He started rubbing his forehead - Now we know that you almost got killed and how you two became a couple, but... - He looked at me again with his confused face - I still don't get it where my fucking sister is.
Luka: When we came back to the hotel, Jasmine tried to convince me to leave Kenya - I sighed and started walking around again - Of course I couldn't let that happen.
James: Are you out of your mind or something? - He became even more furious - Jasmine was right! You should have left.
Luka: Maria's kidnapper is in touch with us from the very beginning - I took my bag and put the screenshots on the table - I knew he's not dangerous. As long as we continued his game, he was totally harmless. But I knew that if we wanted to interrupt his game, something terrible would happen. I said the same to Jasmine. This madman had access to our phones several times, he has access to the cameras videos as well, all the time he's observing us. I knew that if we didn't play as he wanted, we would pay a high price for it. I was sure that continuing his game would have less serious consequences than stopping it. Besides, we were only supposed to spend few more days there. And of course... I was right - I sighed angrily.
Dylan: What do you mean?
Luka: When Jasmine and I got back to the hotel, she insisted that I go to sleep. Let's skip some details here again... - I smirked and looked at furious James, Dylan and Henry - Anyway - I shook my head - Jasmine wanted to work on the notes for the day a little longer. Of course I had bad feelings about it right away. I told her that I would feel more peaceful if she went to sleep with me because she was exhausted too. But of course... - I sighed annoyed again - She made her puppy dog's eyes at me and promised me that all the time she would be in the hotel room as she promised earlier and I just bought it okay? She's so stubborn! - I started rubbing my eyes - So, I went to sleep and... - I immediately lowered my head - I was awakened the next day by the FBI rushing into our room.
Dylan&Henry&James: What?! - They shouted furiously and got up again.
Luka: The FBI chief himself decided to visit me as well - I sighed - As soon as I realised what's happening I started looking around the room, but Jasmine... Jasmine was not in the room.
James: What do you mean? - He stated approaching me with his furious face.
Luka: The FBI wanted to take me from the room, but I said that I'm not leaving the room until they tell me where Jasmine is. Then, Anthony Gomez aka FBI chief told me that Maria's kidnapper caught her.
Dylan: You've got to be kidding me right now, McKing - He approached me too - That joke isn't funny.
Luka: Of course I didn't believe him either so he told me I should call either Elena or Jake and they would tell me the same.
Grace: Elena? Jake? - She got even more confused - How would they know what happened to Jasmine?
Luka: Believe me, at that moment I was as much confused as all of you right now. But... I called Jake and he told me the same. Jasmine was on the phone with them when that happened...
Henry: It doesn't make any sense - He started walking nervously - You told us that she was supposed to be in your room all the time. Jasmine's kidnapping didn't wake you up?
Luka: I asked myself this question too, but then... - I pulled out my wallet and took out Jasmine's note for me - Anthony showed me the piece of paper Jasmine had left on the table for me.
Then, I handed them a note and they all started reading it. I saw that Grace gasped and I saw tears in her eyes.
Grace: It's... - She swallowed - Jasmine's handwriting.
James: How could she be so irresponsible? - He shouted furiously and threw away the note - Why the fuck didn't she just wake you up?
Dylan: But... - He leaned against the table and sighed - Why? - He looked at me.
Luka: As I thought, closing Maria's case had fatal consequences - I sighed and took Jasmine's note to my pocket again - Jake confessed to me that while I was asleep he, Jasmine and Elena wanted to close the case behind my back. Jasmine even wanted to buy us tickets to America. Although I warned her that we cannot close Maria's case, she was about to do it. At that moment I was leading the case and the only person who could close the case except me was... - I sighed - Jake.
Henry: Why?
Luka: Because he's the CEO of the DIC. Even if he is not dealing with the case, he can close every case at every moment. When Jasmine was on the phone with them... Jake was furious. He found out that we went to Kenya despite the riots, about my accident and he that despite everything I wanted to stay in Kenya anyway. Jake of course was worried about us as hell and he decided to close the case. He told Jasmine that he doesn't give a shit about Maria, who is completely stranger for us and all he cares about is our safety. Jake said he would contact George Webster to take us from Kenya right away.
James: And he did the right thing! - He shouted angrily again and grabbed his head - I see he's the only person who is using his fucking brain!
Luka: No, Jake made a mistake with that - I said firmly - Like I said, a few times the kidnapper hacked our phones and he had access to literally everything. This also includes telephone calls. At that moment he was listening the Jasmine's call as well and when he heard about Jake's decision... He attacked Jasmine. At the beginning, we didn't want to risk our health and life, because Maria is a stranger to us, but now this matter has become personal for all of us. He kidnapped Jasmine to let us continue his sick game to the end - I took out my phone and showed them screenshot from the kidnapper's last messages.
Grace: Jasmine... - Tears started to fall from her eyes as she saw a picture of the tied Jasmine.
Luka: Now, you have a choice - I sighed - If you want to know how he caught Jasmine, I can either tell you or show you the video from the street camera.
Dylan: You have a recording? - He narrowed his eyes at me - Are you some kind of fucking hacker or something?
Luka: Technically, yes - I slightly laughed.
James: I want to see what that motherfucker did to my sister, Luka - He crossed his arms on his chest.
Luka: What about the others? - I looked around.
Henry: I need to know - He sighed and started nodding - Yes, I want to see this.
Dylan: Me too - I grabbed his forehead.
Grace: I need to know too, Luka - She looked at me with her sad and hurt eyes.
Then, I just took a deep breath and took out my laptop from my bag. I played them the video, but I didn't watch it with them... I couldn't look at this for the second time. I was just... Waiting.
They watched the video very quietly and carefully. I saw they were analysing every her movement. But then...
James: This motherfucker electrocuted her! - He shouted and walked away.
Dylan: Why did she come over to that fucking bush? - He was furious too - Why was she talking on the phone outside the car?
Henry: He kicked her face! - He shouted the loudest of them all.
James&Dylan: What?! - They immediately approached the laptop again and they rewound the video a few seconds.
Grace: After all, Jasmine's veins are so weak that she's gonna bleed out here! - She was furious too.
Henry: But... - He narrowed his eyes and pointed at the monitor - Why is he standing and he is looking right at the camera?
Luka: After that, he sent a message to the street camera - I took the laptop and I started looking for the decoded message Jake sent me - This isn't on the video anymore, because he's a pretty good hacker and erased it. He's almost as good as Jake... - I finally found it - Here... - I showed them my laptop again - Jake decoded that message. This is a message from the kidnapper.
James: I told Jasmine right away that working in some investigative office wasn't a good idea - He started walking around nervously - She is a marketing specialist, not a life-sacrificed specialist.
Grace: So... - She grabbed her head and sat down again - That's true? Jasmine... My daughter is missing, Luka?
Luka: I will do everything in my power to find her - I said firmly - Besides, I talked to another kidnapper's hostage and she told me something about Jasmine... - I sighed and felt tear in my eyes - She told me that Jasmine miss me so much, she's strong for me and she hopes I will forgive her that she left that fucking room. Can you believe it? Jasmine is hidden somewhere, no one knows where and all she cares about is my reaction to the fact that she left the room. Moreover, she told me that Jasmine gives the kidnapper a really hard time - I slightly laughed and started nodding - All Jasmine...
Grace: After all these years... - She hid her face in her hands - She finally could be happy with you, Luka. But that monster... - She peeked furiously at the monitor - He destroyed everything. My... My little daughter - She started crying.
James: How do you want to find her?
Luka: By continuing his crazy game - I sighed - It's the only way to find her.
Dylan: But how long will it take for God's sake! - He shouted furiously again - You have been traveling around the world for several weeks!
Luka: We are flying to Japan in a few days and this is the last place we have to visit. After Japan we'll come back to LA and we'll find out the way to save them... - I sighed again - Somehow, I hope.
Henry: Why did she go out of this fucking room alone? - His voice cracked and sat down next to Grace - Jasmine... How could you be so stupid and naive?
James: I will kill this motherfucker - He mumbled furiously - Can I help you somehow? - He looked at me.
Luka: All you can do is to forgive her like I did - I looked at them and put my hands on my hips - Me and my friends will not give up until we find her. Elena and Jake were finally discharged out of the hospital so it was only a matter of time before Jasmine was found. All the kidnapper cares about is Elena - I shrugged - She's his target. I don't know why, but I'm sure Elena will be the key to rescue Jasmine.
Grace: But... - She turned pale - That means Elena is in danger and he will catch her, Luka.
Luka: Me, Jake and Anthony won't let this happen. We'll save Elena, Maria and Jasmine at any cost.
James: How could she make such a big mistake? - He was nodding with his disbelief - I know she's stubborn as hell and has a temper, but seriously? How old is she? 5?
Luka: You need to forgive her - I took a deep breath and looked at them with my firm face - I came here to explain to you what happened and why Jasmine is not contacting you. As I stand here, I am even more sure that I owed you that explanation. I didn't want you to find out about it accidentally from the media. I'm Jasmine's boyfriend and it's my responsibility to provide you with this information. Did I make a mistake? Yes, I trusted her and I was sure I could even listen to her and because of that I went to sleep without her. I'll be mad at myself for the rest of my life for not making her go to sleep with me back then, but... I can't undo what happened. However, I have an influence on the future. I swear to you... - I looked at them again - I'll find Jasmine even if I have to pay for it with my life. If I have to sacrifice my life to save her again, I will do it. But I beg you, you have to forgive her. She won't be able to bear the fact that you guys are mad at her for leaving this fucking room. When I find her, I want to tell her that you are waiting for her.
Grace: Of course I'm waiting for her Luka - She immediately got up and ran into my arms - Please - She started crying and hugged me - Save my daughter.
Luka: I will - I hugged her back and sighed - I miss her too.
Then, she let me go and we looked at the others. They were... Devastated. It really broke my heart. I was sure they were going to be mad at me, but... They weren't. Then, James looked at me, approached me and stood right in front of me with his arms crossed on his chest. I knew he was the most difficult to be convinced. Well... Now I'm sure, it's my time to be killed. Of course he's about to kill me! He's the oldest brother and he looks at me from the very beginning as if he wants to kill me.
James: You've been playing with my sister's feelings for the last ten years - He got closer to me and I started taking steps back - You hurt my sister's feelings several times. You broke my sister's heart several times as well. Because of you my sister left Washington and moved to LA. Because of you my sister started working in that fucking DIC ten years ago instead of some marketing corporation. Jasmine changed because of you too - I have already taken so many steps that I have touched the wall. Just great. My time has come - But I can't say she disappeared because of you - He sighed - You did everything right. Moreover, you finally moved your fucking ass after all these years you're together. You... Covered and saved my sister, Luka. You preferred this man in Kenya to stab you instead of her. You could die and you decided to save her anyway... - I saw tears in his eyes - Plus, you've decided to come here and tell us the whole truth in person... I... I don't even have words for how to describe how grateful I am... - He sighed and looked in my eyes - I believe you, Luka. I believe you will find my little sister - He held out his hand to me and I turned pale. Jasmine told me that her brothers never shook hands with any of her "boyfriends" - Find my sister and make her finally happy, Luka. You're a good guy and I really trust you, don't let me down.
Luka: I won't - I hardly smiled and shook his hand - Thank you.
James: As soon as you find Jasmine, tell her I'll kill her - He slightly laughed.
Dylan: James is right - He sighed and stood next to him - Not everyone would dare to come here and tell the whole truth, really. I'm sure Jasmine told you how protective we are towards her - He slightly smiled as well - And yet you came here and told us everything. You have my respect, Luka - He held out his hand to me too - Rarely do I tell this to people, but I really respect you and your courage. I'm sure you'll find my sister and... The love of your life. I can't even imagine how terrible you feel. I really feel sorry for you. This motherfucker has prevented you from being happy together, but someday you'll finally find her and then you'll be happy together again.
Luka: Thank you - I hardly smiled and shook his hand - Since she's not here next to me... I'm a shadow of a man.
Henry: If you want me to forgive Jasmine, I also have one request for you - He approached me too.
Luka: Sure, what?
Henry: Once you find my daughter, I want her to come here - He looked at me with his arms crossed on his chest.
Luka: Of course - I smiled - When we were in Greece, I tried to convince her to visit you anyway. I know how much she misses you, that's why I suggested she should visit you when we're in Australia, but... - I sighed - You know what happened.
Henry: But I want you to come here with her, Luka.
When I heard that I immediately turned pale again. Is this some kind of bad joke or something? I looked at him and he seemed to be dead serious.
Luka: Are you messing with me right now? - I looked at him questioningly.
Henry: You saved my daughter, Luka - He sighed - You were ready to sacrifice your life for her. Maybe you've been lost for the last ten years but you've finally found yourself and I know my daughter will be happy with you. I really want to know you better and I want you to come back here with her - He held out his hand to me too - I'll be waiting for you. Both of you.
Luka: I promise - I shook his hand and smiled.
Henry: And I'm dead serious, Luka - He said firmly and raised his finger - If you chick out and don't come here with her, I'll come to LA on my own.
Luka: Don't worry - I laughed - As long as you don't want to kill me, I can come here with Jasmine. Can you give me a moment? I have to call someone.
Grace: Sure - She smiled at me - Take your time.
I nodded at her and left the kitchen. I started looking around and then I decided to go to the patio to call Jake of course. I dialled his number and he answered pretty quickly.
Jake: Are you ready?
When I heard his voice I immediately turned pale and started shivering with stress. I've never heard him so furious. Never.
Luka: What happened? - I swallowed.
Jake: Nothing - He answered quickly - I asked if you were ready, Luka.
Luka: Y... - I started stuttering - Yes. Everything is fine, you can come to pick me up.
Jake: Good.
Then, I started thinking about it. I started to wonder what could have made him so mad. Only Elena is able to evoke such strong emotions in him... Bingo!
Luka: Will you come with Elena?
Jake: I don't want to hear that name next to me ever again - He answered quickly - I'll be there in two hours. See you.
Then, Jake just hung up. So, I was right. Of course, only Elena can upset him so much. But... What the fuck happened? Why is he so mad at her? Mad? He's furious!
I took a deep breath and came back to the house again. I will definitely talk to Jake about this, but now... Jasmine's family needs me.
Luka: Jake will pick me up from here in two hours - I entered the kitchen and smiled.
Grace: Good - She was still sad.
Luka: I see where it's going - I smirked and approached her - Someone here needs to be cheered up.
Then, I grabbed her hands and started rotating her. Of course she started laughing again.
Grace: Luka for God's sake!
Luka: And that's the smile I want to see all the time - I winked at her.
James: So, Luka... - He sat down at the table again and smiled at me - Since we have some time, please tell us about yourself.
Luka: Oh, man... - I laughed and sat down in front of him - Where should I start?
___________________________________
Jake's POV
Something just broke inside of me. Yes, I know that maybe I said a few words too much, but... Put yourself in my shoes. For many years it has been reminding you that you didn't respect any woman and now, when you finally have that only one, you're doing literally everything you can to change yourself for her. I haven't even looked at another woman since I met Elena and she?
When I watched these Harvard videos this morning, I was... Disappointed. At first, I was furious indeed, but after some time I was just incredibly disappointed with her. So, is this "fair play"? She can flirt with anything that moves because it's "fun", but if I started flirting with someone, everyone would kill me for hurting the feelings of "perfect, pure and delicate Elena". I know I'm not saint, but so isn't she. Yes, I was a womaniser a few years ago, but she was maneater as well. Flirting with all these men gives her some fucking satisfaction or something? The fact that she is with me is not enough for her?
Honestly? As far as I can see, yes. Elena isn't mature enough yet to be in a serious relationship. It's all fun for her. I was just the game for her. Now I can see it. How on earth could I be so stupid as to want to start a serious relationship with her?
There was a moment at the video... The moment that hurt me the most. There was some man who wanted to kiss her and do you know what she said? No, Elena didn't say „No, I don't want to because I am in a happy relationship ". She said "You don't even know how much I would like to greet you as before, but I shouldn't". Literally! So that means "relationship" for Elena. For Elena, "being together" doesn't mean a relationship between two loving people and a her own willingness to separate from other men. It means "compulsion to refrain from kissing other men". How the fuck old is she? 15 for God's sake?
I have to admit that I'm driving pretty fast. I was so lost in my thoughts that I didn't even care about the speed. I was awakened by a deer that ran on my way.
Jake: Fuck.
I gripped the wheel tightly and at the last moment I turned and stood the car crosswise in front of the deer.
Jake: And what are you staring at, huh? - I mumbled furiously at the deer that was standing right in front of my car.
Then, I swallowed and I leaned my head against the headrest. The deer looked at me for a moment longer and finally ran into the forest.
I just took a deep breath and slowly continued my way to Jasmine's parents. I finally reached her house and I saw that they all were standing in front of the house and were chatting. So, they didn't kill him, that's something.
I sighed and left the car. Talking to people is the last thing I want to do right now, but I'm not going to be a bear who won't even say hello.
Grace: Well, well... - She smiled at me - So, is that the famous Jake Danford?
Jake: One and only - I hardly smiled and approached them - So, Jasmine's beloved brothers didn't kill you? - I looked at Luka.
James: I can still change my mind - He smirked at me.
Jake: Nah, if I were you I wouldn't even touch him - I smirked - Let's say that Luka is my little sister and I won't let anyone touch my little sister either.
Luka: Hey! - He took offense.
Dylan: You're pretty sassy, I like it - He approached me and held out his hand to me - Dylan.
Jake: Jake - I shook his hand and hardly smiled - Nice to meet you.
Dylan: This is James and that's our parents. Henry and Grace.
Henry: So, you must be my third son - He approached me and held out his hand to me too - I heard you're very protective towards my daughter.
Jake: Nah, I don't think so - I smirked and shook his hand - If you were my father, I probably would kill you right away if I saw you.
Then, Henry turned pale and looked at Luka.
Luka: Let's just say Jake doesn't get along very well with his father - He laughed.
Henry: Really? - He looked at me again - That bad?
Jake: You have no idea - I said slowly and smirked with my evil smirk.
Luka: We really have to go now - He stood next to me and embraced my shoulders - I need to reprimand him.
Jake: What? - I laughed and looked at him.
Luka: You'll see - He smirked at me and then, he looked at them again - It was such a pleasure to meet you.
Grace: You too, Luka - She sighed and smile faded from his face - Stay safe.
Henry: Find my daughter, Luka - He embraced his wife and sighed.
Luka: We will find her - He sighed and smiled at me.
Jake: I'm so incredibly sorry - I sighed and looked at them - It's my fault.
James: Lots of people are to blame for this shitty situation, Jake. Even Jasmine herself - He approached me and put his hands on my shoulders - Forget what happened and focus on finding my little sister, okay?
Jake: I'll do everything to find Jasmine - I sighed - She's like my sister too. I won't let you down.
James: I'm counting on you.
Then, he sighed, patted my shouters and walked away. We looked at them one more time, waved to them and entered the car.
Luka: So... - He closed the door - Spill the tea, Jake.
Jake: What are you talking about? - I narrowed my eyes at him.
Luka: What happened between you and Elena?
Jake: Nothing - I said firmly and started the car.
Luka: I'm not stupid, Jake. Besides, I know you. I've never seen you so furious.
Jake: I'm not going to talk to you about it.
Luka: Too bad - He put his hands behind his head - You either tell me what happened or I will start complaining to you for the next two hours until your head explodes - He said proudly - You know me, Jake. You know I'm not bluffing - He smirked at me - You'll be sick of my voice.
Jake: I'm sick of everything about you, not only of your voice - I mumbled angrily.
Luka: Let me help you, Jake - He sighed and looked at me - Don't make this mistake for the second time and don't close yourself off from me.
I looked at him and saw his worried eyes. You know what? Fuck it. Why only Elena has the right to complain to others about me? I'm sick of the fact that I'm always the worst one. I really need someone to understand my point of view and I'm sure Luka is the right person for it.
Jake: Fine - I sighed and looked at the road again - I just opened my eyes, so did she.
Luka: What are you talking about, Jake? - He narrowed his eyes at me.
Jake: We should have never been together - I shrugged - That's all.
Luka: What?! - He shouted so loud that I made a sudden movement of the wheel - Jake fucking Danford, at this point you are to explain to me what the fuck happened right now - He said firmly.
Then, I just sighed and started telling him the whole story. All my anger came back again...