Hey don't stare at the boy up there. I know he's sexy af.
Listen to Andas En Mi Cabeza. I'll marry you if this song is your life. Anyway enjoy. ;)
*****
Alexis' POV
One. Roll to the right.
"Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers. Did Peter Piper pick a peck of pickled peppers? If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers, where's the peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked?"
Two. Roll to the left.
"How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? He would chuck, he would, as much as he could, and chuck as much wood as a woodchuck would if a woodchuck could chuck wood."
Three. Play dead.
"When a doctor doctors a doctor, does the doctor doing the doctoring doctor as the doctor being doctored wants to be doctored or does the doctor doing the doctoring doctor as he wants to doctor?"
I'm really good at this. No I'm not a dog, but if I will become one I want to be a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Why? Because according to www.yourpurebredpuppy.com, it is sweet-tempered, playful, and gentle. And because I think the long name of the breed is cute. And because I'm cute. I'm literally losing my mind.
I kicked all the pillows in my bed and even my blanket. I cannot take this anymore. Yes, I'm throwing a tantrum because I'm still a kid. A kid who was left alone and cannot remember a single thing about all the ruckus he had done last night; a kid who became naughty and did something that will cause him to lose his mind. Yes, I'm a kid.
No. Not anymore, remember? Silly.
"Ang shunga shunga mo, Alexis Rodrigues!" I screamed in frustration. Why did I do that? Why? Shunga means stupid. No, there's a new meaning, it means Alexis Rodrigues. Now you know. Who am I talking to? Oh yeah right, I'm talking to myself. Now, shut up.
I sat up and hugged my knees. I'm sulking. I'm not feeling well, my body is aching and I woke up alone, trying to remember and trying to forget at the same time. Everything is just... complicated. Why did he do that? Why did I do that? I'm getting hungry from thinking. It's already lunch after all.
I will never drink again. I think I'm a superhero because I don't feel like vomiting at all even though my head feels heavy. Amazing. If I die because of poison, that would also be amazing. Ugh.
I forced myself to stand up. I need to eat something and take some painkillers. I walked out of my room and went to the kitchen. Instant noodles with an egg will do. Goodness, I'm really not feeling well.
After cooking, I sat on the chair and started to eat. I already ate half of it when my stomach started to get upset. Why now? I got up and ran towards the sink. I pulled up my hair and dispelled the contents of my stomach. I guess I'm not a superhero at all.
"Oh mama. What happened to you? Are you pregnant?"
I felt a hand rubbing my back and when I looked up I saw Jack. He opened the faucet and sighed.
"Let me get your toothbrush and mouthwash. I guess it's in your bathroom. Wait a minute."
After he left me, I started vomiting again. Goodness. I'm cursing every alcohol in this world. Of course I'm just kidding. A chef needs those. I promise to drink moderately starting from now on. I already finished when Jack came back and handed me my toothbrush. I'm glad he's here even though I don't know how he entered.
"Are you feeling better now? You get wasted last night, aren't you?" He asked me after I finished rinsing my mouth. He sat on my chair and started to eat my unfinished food. I wiped my mouth with a towel and sat on the other chair in front of him slowly. How will I answer him? Me? I...
"I-I just took a few glasses. W-Well you know. Maybe I just ate something bad before that. Y-Yeah something like that." I forced out a laugh which made him raise his eyebrow to me. I know he won't buy that. I can feel my face heating up because of embarrassment. I just don't want to think about it because nothing is being registered in my mind right now. It was my fault.
"Uhmm. I feel better now. Thank you." I rubbed the back of my neck and tried to offer a sheepy smile. I truly feel better now even though I feel a bit exhausted. He just rolled his eyes and shrugged.
"I know you're not the party kind of person. There must be a reason. Anyway if you feel hungry, eat a banana after an hour. You can also have some soup if you want. Your stomach is still adjusting after all. Avoid milk and juices okay?"
Oh. I almost forgot he's a doctor. He's a blessing in disguise. I'm glad he's here. I just nodded and watched him finish my food.
"That was yummy. As I was asking, how did you get drunk?"
Oh Peter Piper. I don't know how I will answer him. It's just I can't remember. It was my first time getting drunk... well getting wasted as what he had said. All I know is I'm comforting Cai yesterday then... wait. I stood up and went to my room. My phone!
"What's the problem? What are you looking for?" I didn't notice him following me here. I feel bad that I just left him there without saying anything. But my phone... I bite my thumb as I paced back and forth. C'mon think. I looked up to Jack.
"Jack, may I ask you a favor? C-Can you please ring up my phone? I don't know where it is or if it was missing." I asked hesitantly and almost pleadingly.
He did not say anything and without second thoughts, he handed his phone to me. I muttered my gratitude and dialed my number. Where is it?
"Oh. I can hear something vibrating from there." Jack pointed my hamper. Oh right! My dirty clothes. I searched for my pants and luckily saw my phone. I did not even hear it vibrating. Thank goodness. I thought I lost it.
"Thank you so much, Jack. I---"
My speech was cut off when my phone vibrated on my hand. Someone's calling and it's... it's Eva. I'm so dead. I swallowed the lump from my throat and gave Jack an apologetic smile. He just gave me a wink. I'm dead nervous, I don't even know what to say. After taking a deep breath, I finally answered.
"You better give us a valid reason after disappearing last night and for ignoring our calls. We've been calling you for about 214 times. 57 from me, 46 from Eve, 42 from Xandy, and 69 from Cai because he's a maniac. Where are you right now? You're making us worry."
I released the air that I've been holding after hearing the soft voice of my friend like she was about to cry. She has no time to get mad I guess because she's really worried.
"I'm sorry Eva. I left my phone here at my place so I wasn't able to answer. I just got home."
I hate lying, but I need to. I don't know how I will explain what happened last night because I can't remember.
"You left it? I saw you holding it yesterday."
I froze. I did not see that coming.
"O-Oh right." C'mon think Alexis. Think. "Oh. I-I run! I went for a run a while ago. That's right. I-I mean I left it here at my place when I had some exercise. You're right, I have it yesterday. H-How could I forget that?" I forced out a laugh. What am I saying? Jack gave me a bewildered look and smiled afterwards. He pointed his phone in my hand that's why I handed it to him. Oh goodness. I don't even know what I'm saying.
"Exercise? Since when? You won't even come with us for a morning run before. You prefer to walk because you get tired easily."
I gnawed my lower lip. Oh goodness. This is what you get from doing this stuff, Alexis.
"Y-Yeah, but I.. Uhmm. People change! I-I mean I think I started to enjoy having a morning run. It clears up my thoughts and it's good for the body, you know. Right? That's right."
I palmed my face. I'm not really good at this. I'm so doomed.
"Then where did you stay last night?"
Oh Peter Piper, help me I'm cornered. I woke up here at my place. What should I say? Oh my.
"W-Where did I stay last night? I.. I-I'm..."
Jack tapped my shoulder and showed the screen of his phone to me.
"Hotel..." I read absentmindedly. Hotel what?
"Hotel? Why did you stay at a hotel?"
My eyes widen. Oh shit.
"W-Why? Because..." Jack typed something and showed me what's written. 'Far'
"B-Because it's far! Yeah, that's right. The club was kinda far from my place that's why I checked in for a night. I was so tired to go home. I went home early in the morning to change then went for a run."
Take deep breaths Al. Take deep breaths. Almost.
"Oh. That's why you're not at your place when we got there. You could have just told us you're going. We were worried sick. Wait. You said you just got home a while ago. Don't tell us you just came back from your run. It's already lunch. Alexis Rodrigues, don't you dare lie to us."
Oh shit. Calm down, Al. Calm down. Jack sighed, typed something from his phone again and showed it to me. 'Buy and eat'
"No. I'm not lying. After I run, I-I went to buy some ingredients in the grocery then went to have some breakfast. I went to the library afterwards then after that, I got my lunch. You know how much time I spend in reading."
Can I cry right now? I hate this. I'm the worst.
"A-Anyway, how's Cai? Is he okay now?" I asked to divert the topic a little. Jack must have sense my distress and patted my back. I cannot do this anymore.
"Yeah. I think so. It's like nothing happened. Nothing my ass. He got a hangover, but he was so worried about you that's why he doesn't care about it at all. Don't ever do that again okay?"
I looked up to stop my building tears. My chest is hurting so much. I feel so bad.
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." I'm sorry for lying. I'm sorry for keeping secrets. I'm sorry for everything. I'm sorry for being a bad friend. I'm sorry. I mean it.
"It's alright, Baby Al. Don't be sad there. You will make it up for us. Let's have some bonding. We missed you like crazy."
This is why I love my friends. I wonder how's Mar-Mar and Lon. I haven't heard anything about them for almost a month now.
"Sure. Tell Cai to rest. I'll be seeing all of you tomorrow."
That will be great.
"We will have a run for the next weekend. You should rest too, okay? Love ya Baby Al!"
"Alright. Love ya." Wait, what? Before I could say something again, she already hung up. Run? I don't even... Oh my goodness. Karma, why now? What am I supposed to do? I can die right here at this moment. Where did I put myself into?
"You've got amazing friends. You should probably start exercising now," Jack said as he laid on my bed.
"T-Thank you for helping me." I whispered. I just wanted to disappear right now for he had to hear and witness that. I owed him a lot.
"It must have been hard for you, isn't it?"
What does he mean by that? He stood up and get the pillows and even my blanket on the floor. Oh chuck. I forgot about those a while ago. I was about to help him when he waved his hand to say that he's got it. I'm getting anxious because he had help me a lot today. I don't know how I would thank him.
"Stay there sweetcakes. I mean, you're not able to tell the truth even if you want to. You are surrounded by unusual men just like the devil billionaire who was supposedly dead in public's eyes. How crazy is that right?"
I sat on the couch near the bed. He's right. It's hard for me. I don't want to hide anything to them, but this is not just about me. He took one of my pillow and sat down on my bed as he continued what he's saying.
"You must be thinking about their safety more than yours. That's heartwarming. Well, I must admit that being connected to those men is pretty dangerous, but I guess this was meant to be. Look at me. I'm stuck."
He's right. Everything just... happened. I did not even expect it. Maybe some would really want to be in my position, but honestly it's kinda hard, unbelievable and yeah... dangerous. What does he mean by he's stuck? He grinned at me and hugged my pillow.
"I know what's running through your mind, but it's not easy for me to talk about it. All I can say is... It's really hard to get out from where I am right now."
Oh okay. I just nodded and gave him an understanding smile. I do not want to pry. It is not my business after all.
"Anyway, if you're wondering how I entered your place, Cristy asked me to look out for you. He's with the devil right now. Ugh men and their unending bromance. Maybe the devil just went to visit hell. No need to worry." He snorted and made face. I wonder where he is... Just by thinking and hearing about him makes me feel skittish. My heart's been doing some wonders I couldn't understand right now.
"Don't worry, I like staying here at your place especially right now. I wonder what's on your mind to cause that rosy face of yours."
I touched my cheeks. I'm blushing? I raised my legs and hugged my knees to hide my face. I'm so embarrassed. Jack just laughed at my reaction.
"Now I know why. Well, we're already chit-chatting in here. Oh. I'm the only one talking. Anyway, aren't you curious about something? Don't you want to ask?"
I peeked at him questionably. Ask what? He just rolled his eyes and flicked his hair like a diva.
"Oh c'mon. Don't you want to know something about the devil whose been living with you here? You've gotta know even just a little. It's impossible that he's been opening up to you. That guy is an asshole. C'mon ask me anything. I will try to answer them." He winked at me and giggled. He's right. I... I don't know anything about Lucas. All I know is he's a billionaire and he's an ex-convict. He's short-tempered and can be stubborn sometimes. He likes breaking things and... he has beautiful eyes. Apart from that, I know nothing. Nothing at all. That thought is piercing my heart for some reasons.
"Hey. Don't look so heartbroken there like you're about to cry. I don't want to die early. I need questions. I'm in the mood to answer. Go on."
Is it really okay to ask him? I mean what if Lucas get mad if Jack spills some information about him? I don't want him to hurt Jack just because of my curiosity.
But I really want to ask.
"Earth to Alexis! Hey snap out of it. Don't worry, he wouldn't kill me. You're there to protect me so no worries." He winked and flipped his hair. What? How am I supposed to protect him? I have no enough strength to do that. Lucas is really strong.
Just by the way he holds me, grips me, restraints me...
Oh hombre. Why am I thinking about that? I slapped my face with both hands. Goodness stop. This is not the right time to remember that. I glanced at Jack and it seems like he's really waiting for me to ask him.
I nibbled my bottom lip when something entered my mind. I'm really curious about it and it really bothers me for some unknown reasons. Maybe it is not bad to ask about it 'cause I really wanted to know. I cleared my throat and opened my mouth to speak.
"W-What does he look like when... when he smiles?" I curiously asked which made Jack stared at me dumbfoundedly. What? Did I ask something wrong? It seems like he's waiting for me take it back, b-but it was a serious question for me. I'm starting to feel bothered and I was about to take it back when he started to chuckle. Huh?
"Seriously? My oh my poor Alexis, oh goodness wait. Let me breathe!"
I don't know how long he's laughing, but I'm really confused right now. What's funny with my question? He fanned his face as he tried to calm down, but when he glanced at me, he started to laugh again. I crossed my arms and adjusted my position in the couch to avoid seeing him. I'm really bothered now.
"Oh my. I'm so sorry Alexis. I just found your question... hilarious. Of all the things you can ask me, that's the first thing that came up to your mind? That's why I'm not doubting at all. Jeez. Lucky bastard."
I did not and cannot understand the last part of what he had said that's why I just shrugged it off. What part is hilarious in my question? I just don't get it. Hmp.
"Alright alright. I know you're cute, but don't pout in there. Fine. I'll answer your first question. Honestly..." He stopped for a moment to think. Honestly? Honestly what? I've waited for his answer like an eager puppy.
"Well, he doesn't smile. Not at all. I've never seen him smile like for real. He's just not the type of person who shows positive emotions. All he can do is to get mad and destroy things like he's the king of earth hell. What a badass."
I cannot help, but to feel sad for him. No, I'm not pitying him. It's just that this world is beautiful even though it is not perfect. That's how we love completely right? Accepting the perfect imperfections of a person who holds our heart?
"He's not bad. He's just... lonely." I whispered the last word. There is a short silence between us, but he chose to break it.
"Oh. I've seen him smile, well if you will consider an evil smirk a smile then it is a smile."
I smiled a little. How many times have I saw that evil smirk? I buried my face between my knees again when I remembered a scene in his house. Bad Al. Stop thinking about that embarrassing moment.
"So what else do you want to know?"
What else? Uhmm. I guess it would be weird if I tell him what's running on my mind right now. I better keep it to myself. It's not that I'm hiding my feelings or what, but I just want to leave it unsaid. Lucas will never know anyway.
"You're giving me a headache kid. So quiet. If you wouldn't ask me, then I will just tell you what I know."
I sat straight to ready myself especially my ears from listening. I'm trying not to show that I'm really curious, but I guess I'm failing big time. Goodness I'm acting like a teenager, but I guess there's nothing wrong with that. I cannot help it, but to smile from the thought that even just a little, from knowing this maybe I will be able to help and understand him.
"If you're thinking about his likes and favorites, you better just sleep." He said which made my smile died down. I thought...
"Are you freaking serious? This kid. Ugh! I'm just teasing you then you seriously want to know about that? You're unreal!"
What? What's the problem with that? I would want to know especially about the food he eats. We're living in the same place and my sole purpose is to take care of him. What if he has an allergy right?
"Don't look at me like that, darling. I know nothing. Why would I want to know about those? Gosh, you're unbelievable. All I know is he's good with blades or swords and he actually hate guns even though he's good with that too."
Oh. No doubt about that. I wonder how long he's been in that world. It must be hard.
"I was just 16 when I first met him and he's 20 at that time. I've been in his company for two years before he's been jailed."
I nodded my head. I don't know what to say.
"H-How old are you now?" I asked curiously then Jack smiled with mischief.
"I'm just 24. Yeah I'm too young to be a doctor, but guess what? I'm witty as fuck. No wonder he didn't recognize me when he saw me. Change is inevitable."
There is something that flashes in his eyes for a moment, but I don't know what it is. He sighed and removed his ponytail. He's so confident and amazing. I wonder how he looked like before.
"Don't imagine darling. It's from the past now. I'm like a dangerous animal that was shackled and been freed. Speaking of dangerous, the devil is a lot more dangerous before if you just know. Cristiano is the only one who can stay by his side for a long time."
I think they are the only one who could understand each other pretty well. They are both kings of poker face, but Cristiano is calmer and a lot nicer. Hey I'm just saying the truth. Lucas is always glaring at me, but I love him anyway. I didn't just think of that. I cleared my throat and asked curiously.
"A-Are they siblings?" He raked his hair with his fingers and became silent for a moment like he's thinking of something.
"Should I tell you or not? I don't know? Hmm. I think I could trust you. Just don't mention it to Lucas alright? I'll tell you a little secret."
Why? Is it something private? Who's the legitimate child? Something like that? Are they orphans? But I cannot see any resemblance or similarities. I often encounter those kind of stories.
"They are not siblings. Actually they are rivals before."
What?
"I don't know how their bromance started, but Cristiano has never been inferior. I'm actually under Cristiano that's why he can order me around. That's the only information I could tell you. They are on the same level."
This feels so unreal, but it is interesting. Am I in an action movie or something or maybe in a book? I'm a little confused.
"Well, honestly my knowledge about this is quite little. The devil and Cristy are inseparable and they always work together. When Lucas was in prison, Cristy handles everything and all the outcomes are registered in Santoro's name that's why he's still a billionaire."
Wow. That was possible? Amazing. Their bond is quite strong. Cristiano might have a reason.
"I don't know if Cristiano is stupid. I cannot understand them, but that's how it goes," he muttered and snorted. He must be comfortable with Cristiano, but still...
"Aren't you afraid to Cristiano? He's your boss after all."
He stared at me for a moment, quite taken aback. If I'm him, I'll be intimidated. He gave me a small smile and shrugged.
"Nah. Why would I? Well, I'm the only one who could talk back at him since he's used to it and I'm the only one who could call him some pet names. If you're not me, you'll die. I'm a nutcracker darling, but I'm the most reliable. He cannot kill me."
Oh okay?
"Enough about me. I wonder where they are now. I think there will be a war soon and I'm getting giddy already. Someone messed with Lucas after all. Should I tell you a secret code?" He squinted his eyes and placed his hand above his heart.
"You mess with one, you mess with everyone." Jack said dramatically and I found myself laughing. Don't judge me. I just found it cute.
"Hey, I'm serious. There's a hidden message behind that. Well, don't think about it anymore. The devil is in a big trouble. Hmm. This is becoming interesting." He gave me a wicked look which made me a little nervous. I wonder if he'll be okay. I sighed and gripped my shirt. I'm getting used to this setup, but I'm still worried. He's been living his life in danger and with blood.
"Anyway, don't be scared. The devil will take care of everything. He'll be okay. No one can kill him that easily."
Lucas Santoro... He's the man I fall in love with. His true nature revolves around in this kind of danger, but still even though he's a man with blood in his hands, I still love him and I will stay until he kills me. I wonder if he will be able to give his trust to me. I know my time is limited, but I'll still take care of him. If this is my only purpose to him, so be it.
"Hey, hey, hey stop it. What's with that sullen look? He won't die. That devil has no weakness. Well I don't know if until now."
Huh? What?
"Nevermind that. Lucas is an unpredictable person. What he wants, he gets. He's been gone for six years that's why I don't know if something has changed, but I know there is. I can see it AND I can feel it." He grinned then threw the pillow towards me which I almost didn't catch. Something has changed? I suddenly feel curious.
"W-What is it?"
Jack's face became serious and that made me a little nervous right now. What happened to Lucas? Was it bad?
"It's..."
I gripped the pillow as I waited for his answer. My heart is beating really fast right now. I gulped a few times and held my breath.
"It's... It's his appearance!"
My shoulders sagged. I did not expect that. His appearance? He smirked and started twirling his hair.
"I will admit that he's a sexy bastard, but gosh he had mature a lot. I never said that it is a bad thing because I think it just made him more eye-catching. Ladies want him more than before. He's a magnet after all."
Magnet.
"Oh. And you know what, there are rumors before that he is a beast in bed. I wonder if it's true." Jack shrugged like it was nothing, but there's a glint in his eyes which I could not decipher.
Now here I am, I don't know what I'm supposed to feel. It's pathetic, but I feel like breaking down. Of course he already had a lot of experience when it comes to that thing. C'mon Alexis, you just experienced that a while ago. Don't be so riled up with the thought that he had slept with countless of beautiful ladies. What you have experienced is nothing compared to those so stop your delusions. He's just confused and you're the one who jumped him. He just accepted your invitation because he's just a man with needs. Why didn't you think about that a while ago? You're so stupid.
"Shit. Are you crying?"
I touched my cheeks. Oh. I am. I didn't even notice, but it doesn't matter. I couldn't stop them anyway. My heart feels heavy and it is hurting so much. This is what I get for getting my hopes up.
"Shit shit shit. What have I done? Look Alexis. I-I'm just kidding alright, not all of it, but I don't even know about his sex life! Shit. Please stop crying," he panicked.
Jack's already by my side, trying to calm me down, but I just can't stop crying. I'm not feeling well then I heard those things. It's just too much too handle. I'm not a woman for pete's sake. Why am I such a crybaby? He must be thinking that I'm pathetic.
"You. You love him, don't you?"
Silence embraced the room after that question was dropped like a bomb. I was speechless. Should I deny it? I'm tired of lying. This is not easy for me. I feel so selfish. I want him to take me in his embrace like I wish he has done when I woke up and tell me that everything's going to be alright. I want to feel his lips, I want to hear his voice, I want to feel his warmth. I just want to be in his arms, but I'm simply tired right now. Physically, mentally, emotionally.
"I knew it. Stupid devil. Oh my sweetcakes. It's going to be okay."
Jack took me in his arms and rested his chin above my head.
"Listen to me. Why do you think he has the term 'devil' on his name? Loving a man like him is somehow hard, but I know you could understand that. You're quite a masochist. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me AND trust me, everything will work just fine. Trust him and never leave his side. Dang, Santoro you owe me for this."
He kept cursing which made me smile a little. I looked up then suddenly his eyes widen as he stared at me, dumbfounded. And after a minute of silence...
"This is so unfair! Stop being so cute. I rarely top! I'm a proud bottom!" He whined as he hugged me tighter. I don't know, but I found myself laughing. Should I introduce Cai to him? I think they will get along just fine. Jack let me go when his phone started to vibrate.
"Gonna answer this for a minute alright? I'll be back."
He stood up and went out of my room. Who might it be? I slumped on the couch and started to reflect from my situation. I'm starting to have some realization. Take a deep breath, Al. You cannot cry and be sad forever. Goodness, EWBA, EWBA, EWBA. Everything will be alright! Be positive. Lucas is already grumpy that's why you need to contradict that if you wanted to stay by his side.
That's right. Starting from now on, try to show him what happiness means in this crazy world. You need to be a lot more understanding plus always have some good vibes.
"Ooh. What's with that creepy smile? I'm sorry for spoiling your mood, but your devil cannot go back today. I think something came up."
A little sadness cannot be avoided, but I still managed to smile genuinely and nod with understanding. We're facing different battles, but I will fight with him in my own ways. It may sound cheesy, but my love will keep me going. Jack crossed his arms and shook his head incredulously. He looked at me from head to toe and muttered something under his breath, but smiled afterwards.
"You cried like a baby a while ago, but now... just wow. I like that expression, sweetcakes so better keep that. You're quite unpredictable, too. The forbidden love of the angel and the devil is so cheeky, it gave me chills. Ugh."
Jack rolled his eyes in distaste and pretended to vomit. I bit back a laugh. Angel? I think I'm not even close to that. I pushed back my hair when Jack started to stare again. Honestly, it feels uncomfortable. Is there something wrong?
"I swear I do not want to bring this up, but it is indeed distracting."
Huh? What does he mean by that?
"You better look at yourself in a mirror and you will get what I mean. I need to go. Cristy wants me to workout my ass. The devil has finally done it. I'm excited as fuck."
What does he mean by that? Jack gave me a hug and a pinch then looked at me in the eyes.
"You're a good and a bad tamer at the same time. I'm so proud of you. Keep up the good work. For now, take care and fix yourself 'cause you look like a mess. Take note: a sexy mess, but still. Relax and do not panic. I gotta go."
What? Jack just smiled wickedly and winked for my confusion before he totally went out of my place. Tamer? I cannot understand. What does he mean by that? I stood up and made my to the bathroom. I decided to just shrug it off, but then when I finally reached my destination, it feels like a cold water was dumped on me and now I realized I'm doomed for the rest of my life. I touched my neck. What... What are... these?
He... he... No, no, no. This is not happening. This can't be. I'm so dead. Oh hombre.
LUCAS SANTORO!
If I say I'm doomed, I really am. My moves are calculated and I don't look okay. Not at all.
"I swear I never thought that he was getting married. We didn't even know that he has a girlfriend! Stupid boss!" Eva screamed and took a big bite of her chocolate.
"You're right twinny! Whoever that woman is, I swear I'll pull her tits until she cannot produce some milk!"
I winced from their words and just sighed afterwards as I gather the dirty dishes. They shouldn't talk like that. It is Boss' life after all. He loves her and maybe she loves him too. What's wrong with that?
"There's something wrong with that!" I was taken aback from their scream. Oh. Did I say that outloud? They muttered a quick sorry and shrugged it off like they didn't startle me from their outburst. Eve continued mopping the floor with a pout while Eva went back into eating her chocolate. I swear my girls are crazy. They cannot accept it.
"Cai is acting like nothing happened and he's damn good with it, but he couldn't fool us. I know he's dying inside." Eve said dramatically as she hugged the mop stick. We're actually cleaning right now. It's closing, but I still don't want to go home...
"I wonder why Boss is not around. It has been three days."
Yeah. It has been three days. Three torturing days...
"Maybe... he's having second thoughts! Anyway, Baby Al, are you sure you're alright? We told you to stay at home. It has been three days. If we just know that you're going to get sick, we shouldn't have let you drink."
No, I'm not sick. If it is just easy to say... I can feel the heat from my face and I really want to disappear right now. I shifted uncomfortably and avoided their gazes as much as possible.
"Yeah. I hate seeing that sweater, but if it makes you comfortable then I'll bare with it. You're too hardheaded, Baby Al."
It is not comfortable. I'm actually sweating inside. The only purpose for this is... oh goodness. I hate my life.
"You should sit over there baby. Let us take care of this. Your face is so red. Are you sure you don't want to take it off?"
"No!" I screamed, startling them a little. I cleared my throat and quickly added,"I-I'm really cold. Don't worry girls. I'll be alright. Uhmm girls, please do not talk badly about Boss' fiancee. You don't even know her. Respect his choices and the person, alright?"
The twins looked at me with guilt and nodded. I gave them a soft smile and shifted my gaze. I'm not comfortable with my own skin. This is his fault. That man with his sexy eyes and sinful mouth! I should be mad at him, but I... I just can't. I palmed my face. I didn't just think of that. It has been three days and I haven't seen him. Honestly I'm getting worried and frustrated. Is he okay? Is he mad?
I hit my forehead on the table. Oh goodness Alexis! He's indeed mad! It's your fault. You freaking jumped on the man for pete's sake. You know he's irresistible, but that was so unlike you. How could you do that? How will you face him now? You said no lovelife until you graduated, but what's happening to you right now?
"Twinny, I'm getting worried about our Baby Al."
"I feel the same twinny. He knows he could talk to us. He must be stressed. How do we cheer him up?"
I do not want to go home. It makes me feel lonely. I released the biggest sigh I have in my whole life. My thoughts are interrupted when a familiar song blasted on the speakers.
"Oh shit! This song is ours, twinny!" Eva screamed and Eve nodded vigorously.
"Your song? That's my song biatches."
My eyes widened in surprise. Cai? The girls squealed and jumped at the ginger guy. Cai is smiling from ear to ear as he hugged them back. They are giving him kisses all over his face and even scanned him from head to toe like worried mothers. He looks like his normal self. He winked at me and pinched the twins' bums. They gave each other a meaningful look. Oh.
"Give me that stick."
Eva took the mop from Eve when the refrain of the song came.
"You're haunting me, taunting me all in my brain. Turn off the light and now all that remains. Fills me with doubt and I'm shouting your name out loud."
Eva snatched it back dramatically. They look so serious.
"Why do you wanna put me through the pain? I get the feeling I'll never escape. I can't hide away from the shame of you."
Eva passed it to Cai who closed his eyes and sang his heart out.
"Tears on the ground, tears on my pillow, you won't bring me down and I'll get over you. These tears will get me through and I'll get over you."
Then they started dancing like lunatics. Oh my goodness. I palmed my face as I watched my friends fool around. It was a good song. The title is "Tears" by Clean Bandit featuring Louisa Johnson. The notes are quite high to reach, but that makes them sound hilarious. I'm really enjoying while watching them. Cai is an amazing dancer. If someone sees them right now, they will think my crazy friends are drunk.
"I don't need you to call me tonight.
I don't need you to see if I'm alright! You left me, so leave me, I'm fine. I'll be here getting on with my life."
I wolf whistled and cheered as Cai sing the somehow like bridge part. It was too high for him, but he owns it. The poor chairs and table are sadly used by them. I'm never listening to this song again. My poor eardrums and eyes.
The song was finally done and they posed like divas. Imagine when an artist and the back up dancers stop when a song was done? They look like that. Cai is standing on top of the table, chin up while the twins are sitting sexily on his feet with a serious expression. Oh poor me. They slay!
"We should organize a concert. That was freaking insane!" Cai screamed as he slumped down on the table to catch his breath. Even the twins are heaving and laughing at the same time. I'm glad my friends are having fun. I decided to get some water for us. I think that was tiring and for the fact that I'm actually sweating because of the turtleneck sweater that I'm wearing.
"Oh. Thank you Baby Al. Did you enjoy the show? If you finally feel better, do not ever think you'll be able to escape from us. We will have our group dominate all those flipping music charts and awards!"
They reached for their water and chuckled. Oh no. I like listening to music, but I do not even dance nor sing. I never wish to be an artist or imagined myself performing in public.
"That's not a bad idea, twinny. Baby Al can contribute a lot. He can actually move that body, remember? He looks like a male vixen."
I almost spit the water that I'm drinking. W-What?
"I second the motion, twinny. That was a surprising, but hot as fuck night! Then you miraculously disappeared without a notice, Baby Al. I wonder how you managed to go out. I think you're also drunk that time."
I don't know what to say. I was... speechless. I'm starting to hyperventilate. What did I do? I cannot remember what happened that night. I think I'm going to faint anytime.
Lucas...
I bite my bottom lip to stop myself from gasping. Nobody saw him right? Shit shit shit. This is serious. I gripped my pants as I tried to calm down. This can't be.
"Hey stop it girls. Do not attack him. Our Baby Al is sick. By the way, my voice box wants more. One song is not enough. I need to mend this broken heart after all."
Cai clutched the front of his shirt dramatically and sighed. The girls awed and hugged him. I blinked in surprise when he glanced at me and winked. I calmed down a bit, but I wanted to know what exactly happened that night. I need answers. My memories are quite blurry.
"Yeah, one song is not enough. This only means..."
The three of them looked at each other meaningfully and nodded. I swear I will never get that.
"One, two, three. KARAOKE!"
They screamed in unison. Oh hombre. I guess this would be a long night.
~~~
Devil. A creature that has no remorse in making humans suffer; a creature that can easily poison the mind and soul of the weak until they are dragged to the pits of hell. It is heartless and carries deadly sins. It is hated, avoided, feared for the sole purposes of its existence is to provide queries for the humans that were given the free will to live their lives. This kind of a cruel responsibility has been given to an inhuman creature.
The term was never new to the man for he was labeled as one as he grew up. Facing death and living with it together with blood and suffering have been a part of his life. Fear is nonexistent and does exist at the same time for he doesn't have it, but he is able to give it to anyone.
The hands of the callous murderer had killed and tormented pestilent hypocrites that shouldn't have existed at the first place. He dragged them all to hell and the number will increase sooner for a certain reason.
He has barely contained his anger when a picture has been sent to him. It was taken yesterday morning; the same day when the annihilation occurs. The desire to kill is scorching through his brain and now it was filled with random ways on how he will drag it to his den.
Hell.
Hours had passed, but he still have his gaze on the person who has been sleeping in peace. His stares did not falter like the little angel might disappear anytime.
"Brother." Cristiano called as he stepped forward and glanced at the sleeping boy on the bed. Finally, his gaze dropped to the man who did not even give him a glance.
"I saw this coming, but not this fast. The picture... He's not safe anymore. Whoever this person is, he is determined to bring you down."
The scratches and the bruises on the devil's arms and neck weren't able to hide from Cristiano's eyes. Santoro clenched his fist as he tried to hide his visible anger. The little trouble has become the man's sweetest downfall. He succeeded in getting into his barrier and now the devil has been breaking his own rules without even knowing it.
"What's the next move, brother?"
Cristiano noticed how the tension surrounding the room diminished when the devil stood up and sat beside the angel who still has a flushed skin and swollen lips. The innocence and peace affected the men inside, but in a good way. Silence took over until loudsteps made the both of them cautious for they are not expecting any visitors. Lucas raised up his gun while Cristiano managed his position. A man entered the room and his eyes are filled with the intention to kill. Cristiano lowered his gun and gave the man a blank look.
"Raphael. We did not expect you to be here. You could have send a message."
The man's eyes hardened when his gaze fell on Alexis. Cristiano's words seemed to fell on deaf ears when his glare diverted to the devil who is beside the little guy. If eyes could kill, they are both dead.
"Aren't you done messing with him? I received a picture. I know it will come into this. I won't say this again and I'm fucking serious. Let him go, Santoro. Do not make me do it for you."
The tension has become thick once again as the dangerous men challenged each other's gazes. Cristiano's eyebrows furrowed from the man's statement and was about to ask when Lucas beat him to it.
"You better shut your mouth Ventimiglia and mind your own business. Don't you have a bitch to fuck? I don't have time to listen to your shit."
Raphael was about to charge towards the devil when Cristiano stepped forward. Lucas went back on staring at Alexis while the big man tries to calm his anger.
"You better take this outside if you wanted to kill each other. Someone is sleeping peacefully in here. If he woke up and saw the both of you bickering, I swear you will deal with me."
The most composed from all of them is getting pissed. The cold glare he has indicates that he's not up to fool around, but Raphael wasn't taken aback.
"You agreed with all of this Cris? He dragged an innocent person to his mess and worse, he fucking touched him. Are you fucking blind? This wasn't supposed to happen."
Alexis shifted on his position, successfully stopping any noise from being done. He shifted again then Lucas reached for a blanket and covered the little guy's body. It worked for he did stop moving and snuggled beneath it. Cristiano smirked as he watched Raphael's evident confusion from the devil's action.
"Look, Raphael. I know you're against this, but I cannot do anything about it. Believe it or not, Alexis insisted to make Lucas stay here for a moment. The little guy is not stupid and he knows the risk. Whatever running on his mind, we have no idea. He's already involved and all we can do is to protect him until everything's done. How come you received that picture?"
Raphael heaved a sigh and turned his attention to Cristiano.
"The kid is too kind. Well, I was about to go to work when I received it. I was fucking worried. Did you also receive that picture?"
Cristiano folded his arms. He and Lucas received the picture from an unknown sender and even Raphael received it. The pieces are not falling into their proper places. Lucas was listening. The men inside the room started to think as they tried to connect all the pieces until they come into the same conclusion.
The tension is becoming thicker until it was too suffocating to handle. Finally, the three men looked at each other. The sleeping angel must have felt the tension and released an uncomfortable sigh which caught the devil's focus. He reached for the boy's cheek and caressed it. He ignored the two pair of eyes watching on what he's doing.
"After several years, someone finally dared again. I never thought that this would come. They even waited for this asshole. Why now?" Raphael sighed and massaged his temple while Cristiano patted his back and smirked.
"If you're going to ask me, I quite miss it. Don't worry, this would be fun."
Alexis finally relaxed and lingered to the warmth of the devil's hand, taking Raphael by surprise.
"I swear I'm having a long vacation after this. This is unbelievable to the point that it's making me hungry."
Cristiano snickered on Raphael's statement.
"Don't be dramatic, brother. Think of this as our little reunion. Lucas, what now?"
The devil lifted his gaze. Unsurprisingly, the glint from each man's eyes was the same. It only indicates the chaos that was about to come. The 'normal' clash between them was buried and their minds are entwined for the same goal.
"Gather the Primo."
And now the war has indeed began...
*****
Note:
Surprise? Yup, I just updated. I'll be busy again on the month of May. I hope you enjoyed this one. Click the star. This story is nearing 100k reads. Surprise me, too alright?
Til next time.
Listen to the song 'Tears'. You will feel this chapter. Additional information, the next chapters will revolve around them. The angel & the devil. I know you're looking forward to that.