Chapter 36 - Cracked dreams

"Let's meet again, for the first time."

************

One week later...

Lilly's POV

"Dad, I will tell you something and you are not going to like it," I started my conversation, giving him pre-heads up so he won't god forbid have a heart attack or something, "But promise me that you'll keep an open mind about it before you say no."

His expression shifted, expecting the worst from me as usual, can't blame him for that to be honest. Ever the problematic one I am.

He rushed a hand over his face, the muscles of his jaw working, silent still as he glared at me. Mom passed behind him, heading for the fridge, she paused and gave me a thumbs up, smiling and urging me to go for it. I internally groaned, God, why can't he be as supportive as she is in these matters.

Dad's gaze flickered behind him, they suspiciously narrowed at her, understanding how we are teaming up against him again. She gave him a sheepish smile, casually tapping her hand over his shoulder before she scurried off to the fridge, saving herself and pretending to be busy as she rampaged through it.

"So, uhm," I cleared my throat, trying to sound more professional and serious. For god's sake, if I will ever make it in the business world, I should at least be able to convince my own father that moving out of his house is a good idea.

But his glare, jesus...he is so going to make a scene.

"I think it's time for me to have my own place," I said it all at once, my heart beating a thousand miles per second. I sucked into a deep breath and rubbed my sweaty palms over my pants. This is beyond stressful.

Step one...done.

Step two; show him that you've done the necessary preparations.

"I've been searching around for something convenient, you know, location and budget-wise," I carried on, explaining, and he was still silent for some reason, his smoldering gaze keeping me in my seat and I tried to not let it affect me. Stand your ground, Lilly, stand your ground, "And after intensive research, I found the perfect apartment."

Step three; show him that it's matching with his criteria.

I kept my tone steady, reflecting just how determined I am to carry on with this at all costs, "It's really safe in there, I swear, the apartment complex has security guards at the entrance and no one can pass past them without calling and confirming with me first."

Step four; give him a real-life example, so he can visualize it.

"It's actually in the same building block as Chase, you've been there, you've seen the place," I added, defending my purposes, "The apartments are huge, modern, and very luxurious," He was still silent, making me more anxious, almost like a bomb ticking and waiting to explode in my face once I am done, "It's really safe in there, you've seen it, it's a family-friendly compound, it's so safe and it's really close to work and Chase is there in case you know, so uh yeah...it's safe," Okay, today's game is; guess how many times Lilly said the word safe in the past minute.

Ugh, it's just I know him and how much he worries. I need to show him that I am responsible enough now, that I can handle being on my own without tripping and falling every second.

I hefted a low breath, waiting for a reaction but he stayed silent, his expression impassive, giving me no clue whatsoever, his fingers tapping over the table, slowly and one at a time. Damn it, I never thought I'd be more uncomfortable with his tranquillity. I'd rather him say some words, maybe like shout at me, scold me or something, tell me how I barely survived when I was on my own in the UK, how the small decision that I took years ago almost broke down my family.

Phew, this is escalating too fast. Breathe, in and out, Lilly, keep breathing...

I tucked my hair behind my ear, keeping a poker face even though every nerve in my body was trembling with unease. I mean, dad is like the coolest, he is fun, he is always saying all kinds of inappropriate things, he spoiled us way too much, part of why I am what I am, but he really does have that scary strict aura sometimes, especially when it is concerned with anything that could threaten me and Max in any way.

Oh, and also when the subject is about boys...yeah, he kills me with that overprotectiveness. He wants me to die a virgin. Oh, poor him, he really has no clue what type of person I am when it comes to that. I mean, come on, I am his daughter after all.

"Also, uhm, Noah said he'd stay by my side, checking on me and all around the place whenever he can, you know, to make sure no threat is around or anything," I added, trying to earn more brownie points for my thorough planning process.

His eyes held mine for a long second, assessing my state and determination, his eyebrow raised, amused and maybe a bit impressed if I am not mistaken. He rubbed a hand over his tight jaw, his gaze flickering down before they held mine again, "Okay," was all he said. He backed into his seat, crossing his arms over his chest, "We can go tomorrow and check the place," He added.

I could no longer keep my poker face on, my eyes grew wide, taken aback by his instant approval, "Okay?" I mumbled, "So, you are really not gonna fight me over this with so many viable reasons?" My eyes narrowed, a bit horrified; is he okay?

He rolled his eyes, "What's the point of that when I am just gonna say yes in the end," He grumbled out, knowing very well how most of the time, I end up convincing him of my reckless decisions somehow.

A small smile pulled up at my mouth, "Really?" I checked again, he could be trolling me for all I know.

He couldn't look more annoyed than he is right now. His lips curled up in pure aggravation, "Yeah, so wipe off that smile, I am not that happy with my decision."

I tried to ignore that last sentence as I got up from my seat, unable to keep my excitement in. I imagined a hundred different scenarios of how this was going to unfold but this in exact was definitely not one of them. I reached his side, wrapping my arms around his neck from the back, squeezing the hell out of him, "You're the best, you know that," I said, squealing before I dropped a big kiss on his cheek.

He tried to kick me off him, trying to act indifferent and annoyed with me still, "Yes, I am, you don't deserve me," He grumbled and I shook my head, kissing him again, "Nope, I don't, which is why I love you so much."

His lips twitched, fighting off his smile as his hand rested over my arm, his head edging backward, his eyes drifting to my face, "Promise me you'll be safe," He said, fighting a battle inside and I get it; The coast isn't clear yet, we have no clue where Louis is, or what else is he planning to do...

But what's the point of hitting pause on our lives because of him. If he is gonna strike back, I doubt any closed door is going to keep him off our case, so all I could do for now is resume my life and just hope for the best.

"I promise," I said, trying to assure him. The weird thing is, I am really not scared anymore. It is so weird, and I don't know why...just a week ago, I was terrified to my very bones.

He tapped his hand over my arm, "Okay now quit talking and go get ready, we need to be at the company in less than half an hour," He said and I nodded, leaving his side and hurrying up to my room to get ready.

My enthusiasm blinded me and I came crashing up against Max as he was about to make his way down the stairs, "Sorry," I mumbled but he barely reacted, his eyes on his phone, typing something and totally ignoring me. A small smile curved his lips as he read whatever was written on his screen and started typing right after. I tiptoed from behind him, trying to sneak a peek at what made him so giddy at this time in the morning but failed to see clearly.

I sighed and shook my head, it's probably just another girl he is trying to score. Lucky him. I groaned as I pushed the door to my room. I miss being in a relationship...actually scratch that, I miss the sex part of it only.

How long has it been since I last did the deed...oh god, let's not open that door. Let's just say; It's been a while.

I tried not to think about my non-existence sex life and focused on the good part; I will have my very own apartment very soon, no parents, no roommate, just me, with a bedroom that I will probably sleep in all alone...Yay me!

Ugh, way to ruin a mood, Lilly, way to ruin it...

*************

Later that day...

Squinting my eyes at the monitor's screen, I tried to carry on with my to-do list so I can finally call it a day. Feeling the ache increase in my eyes as I've spent the better half of the day glued to my computer, I backed away and opened my purse, pulling my glasses out and placing them on to relieve some of the pain and better clear my eyesight.

I sighed loudly as I went through the rest of my emails and checked up on the huge pile of work that is yet to be done before next week. Such a smart move it was to insert myself in every damn project. So very smart. Uncle Ashton told me to take it easy but stupid me wanted to prove herself worthy so I pushed my nose where it shouldn't be pushed just so I can give myself a mere chance at scoring the Paris branch's manager position.

Well, look who is laughing at her own stupid decisions now...

Checking the time, I couldn't help the low whiney sound that left my lips. Looks like someone is gonna have a sleepover at the office, and here I thought I could rest today so I can have tomorrow and the weekend clear for moving and settling down into my new place.

Realizing I have no chance of postponing this, I got up from my seat and shrugged my blazer off, I hung it on the side before I gathered my hair, and pulled it up into a bun, getting all comfy as I sat down and entered the zone. I focused my eyes on my monitor, glued my fingers to the keyboard, and carried on with my work. A few minutes later and I heard a knock on my door, expecting it to be dad since it was already the end of the workday and I have nothing else scheduled, I didn't even let my eyes leave the screen as I mumbled, "Come in."

The door opened and footsteps got closer, "I won't be leaving with you now, dad," I mumbled, squinting my eyes at the text ahead of me, making sure I made no typing or grammatical errors before I send the email to the head of accounting, "I still have-"

"Dad? I don't think we ever used that nickname before-" The voice and the amused tone that was used had my eyes instantly snap from the screen to my intruder. My eyes widened at his unanticipated sight and I jumped off my seat, horrified, "What the hell are you doing here?!" I snapped, screeching, circling my way around the desk and to the front so fast as I slammed the door shut, scared of anyone unexpectedly passing by and seeing him.

"How did you even get inside the building?!" I hissed, whisper-yelling at him and trying to keep my voice low to not attract more people into this.

Christian shrugged, "I know how to charm my way in," He gave me a wink, acting all casual, forgetting that if dad was to spot him in his own company, he would just shoot him on sight, "Also I think the security lady downstairs has a thing for English accents, so-"

"What? What the hell were you thinking coming into here?" I wanted to rip my hair off at the moment, "Are you crazy?" I threw my arms in the air, frustrated and bewildered. I so badly want to smash his head into something, maybe it could knock some sense into him because he's becoming more reckless with each day, no wonder he and I clicked, we are similar in that sense, "If dad was to see you, he'd kill you," I grated out, whispering the next words in pure terror, "And probably kill me too."

"Well, you weren't answering my calls all over the past week," He said, his eyebrow raising, as if he just gave the best excuse ever for his stupid action.

I shot him a murderous glare, my jaw tightening in pure annoyance, "Yeah, and that distinctly states that I don't want to talk to you!" I want to hit him so bad, ugh, when will he leave my life for good? Just when? "It definitely doesn't mean barge unannounced into my father's company!"

He shrugged, crossing his arms over his chest, "It was worth the risk," He said, ever so casual.

Stupid, so stupid...just like me.

Before I could snap some more and push him off my window or something, I heard dad's voice from outside my office, talking with someone and most probably heading here. My eyes grew wide and panic rushed into my chest with full force, snapping all of my oxygen off, "Oh my god!" I mumbled, hysterical as I looked around me, lost at what do to next. Fuck, fuck...Pushing him off the window does seem like my best option at the moment.

"Wha-" He started to speak as I pushed at his body, moving him away.

"Move, move, quickly, come on, move," I pushed at his arm, interrupting his words, and led his way to the teeny tiny closet I have in here. I opened it and pushed him inside, he looked like he was about to whine and complain but I shushed him by tiptoeing and pressing my hand to his mouth, ever so harshly, covering it before it blabbers some more nonsense.

My eyes were wide and glaring, while his were soft, amused, almost like he was smiling underneath my palm, enjoying this...the stupid dick, "Don't you dare get out of here or even say a thing!" I hissed, "If you could stop yourself from breathing altogether, that would be a bonus," I mockingly remarked before I stepped backward and slammed the closet door shut just as I heard the knob to my office's door rattle.

I sucked into a deep breath and twirled around, pressing my back up against the closet, terrified to my very own bones as dad opened the door and stepped inside, "Hey, little bug," He started to say but paused midway, his eyebrows pulling closer when he noticed me plastered to my closet and not behind my desk, "What are you doing?"

I forced on a smile, nervously stepping forward, "Uh, I was just feeling hot, so I uh...changed my clothes," I rubbed a hand at the back of my neck, "It's hot, isn't it?" I waved a hand over my face, I was literally burning up, my pale white skin turning reddish due to my anger and panic. I pulled at the edges of my crop top, "Phew, very hot," I mumbled as I stepped closer to him, trying to let his eyesight be just on me and nowhere else.

He looked double confused but also unfazed, like he could care less, probably thinking that I am weird and questioning what type of person he gave birth to, "Anyway, I am heading home, you're coming with me?"

I shook my head, gulping down, "No, no, I still have so much to do, I am planning to stay till it's all done." Till I can kick this stupid dick out of here without anyone noticing.

My words had lines etching between his eyebrows, "When it comes to working, you make me feel like you are Ashton's daughter, not mine," He said, not satisfied with me being extra committed to this.

I smiled, shrugging, "I am still giving the first impression to everyone, so, I need to work hard."

He nodded, a faint proud smile crossing his lips, "Okay, just don't over-exhaust yourself, also order something to eat, it's almost dinner time, and if it was late when you finish up, call me, I will come and pick you up, don't drive alone at night-" He pulled on the caring sweet dad tone and I nodded, feeling like shit for hiding that asshole in my closet from him, but it's not like I invited him into here!

I keep pushing him away, trying to step as far as possible from that tainted past, but he is not giving me much of a choice lately. I'd rather have him hate me again, I swear.

Dad bid me goodbye, stressing again about ordering something and feeding myself before he finally left my office and headed outside. I stayed by the door, looking and impatiently waiting to see him get into the elevator. When I was sure he is far away, a low sigh of relief left my lungs and I closed my door, locking it from inside, and preventing anything like this from occurring again.

I turned around just as Christian left the closet, a grumpy look over his face, "That was not fun at all," He mumbled, annoyed, earning another glare from me. He looked back inside and pulled something from the closet, "Also, why do you keep these in here?" He questioned, very amused as he held the extra bra I have kept in there by its straps.

I pressed a hand to my forehead, trying to keep myself calm. Don't push him off the window, Lilly, don't push him off the window. I chanted in my head before I faced him again, not an ounce of amusement on my angry face as I strode forward, snatching my bra from him and pushing it into the closet before I slammed it shut.

His eyebrow raised, "You're not by any chance planning on having office sex without me, are you?" He questioned, tease dripping off his words and I nodded my head, going on with his stupid game to infuriate him just like he pushes all of my buttons, "It's exactly what I am planning to do!" I shot out, my jaw tight as I tried to make my way back to my desk, wishing him to disappear from here and from my life altogether.

His hand curled over my arm, stopping and pulling me back to him. I fisted my hand and tried to pull my arm back but he refused, his other hand sneaking up to my lower back, resting there and swiftly tugging me closer. I looked up at him, watching the tender smile that curved the side of his lips, "To be honest, the businesswoman look really suits you," He mumbled, no longer teasing and genuine for once.

His hand left my arm and traveled to my face, tucking the loosened strand that fell off my messy bun behind my ear, "I am so proud of you," He mumbled, his eyes turning into a very soft shade of grey, almost like a fog on a meandering road, blurring my vision and jumbling my perception of direction.

"I still remember you sitting on my couch, with all the books piled up around you," A flicker of despondent surged into the look he was giving me even though he was reminiscing good memories, "Wearing these glasses that drives me half-mad," He added, placing his fingers over its temples as he pulled it off my eyes and placed it on the desk's edge, "I would sit there and just watch you all night, and you would shush me every time I try to speak a word, focusing only on your studies," His head tilted slightly as he gazed at me, "And look at you now," He added, his eyes swiftly moving around my office, indirectly addressing my achievement.

It didn't feel much of an achievement anyway.

If my father didn't own half of this, I wouldn't be here.

A lump lodged in my throat and I found myself talking without thinking, "And what were you thinking back then when you were watching me," I said, my voice dropping much lower than before, "Probably how easy and cheap I am that I was sitting in your house," I recalled back to Louis's words, "How once I finish my studying, you'll push me into your bed, feed me more lies and fuck me up some more," My eyes narrowed at him, "Am I right? Or did I miss something?"

My words stole that somewhat content look from his eyes, it had the muscles of his jaw work, furious, but not at me, "Lilly, please-"

I shook my head, shushing his meaningless sorrowful words as I pulled myself away from him, pushing his arm from around me, needing anything but his touch - it's just a mocking reminder of everything I hate about myself. It took me a while to realize it, but he is what I hate the most about me. The Lilly that grew with him, learned from him, the one who sank too deep into his manipulation; I really hate that Lilly.

I sat down over my chair, focusing on what's important, "You're not leaving till I make sure no one I know is left in the company," I said, my eyes on the screen as I resumed my work, ignoring him, but still not willing to risk anyone finding out he is here. It was so stupid, how I still worry about any member of my family hurting him in any way...

"So, sit there and stay silent as I finish my work," I added, not for once looking at his face as I typed down, sinking into my work, and improving the parts of me that I could still salvage from under the wreckage of my cracked dreams.

A few seconds later, I heard his footsteps fade as he headed to the other end of my office, probably planning to sit on the chairs far away from me. Great. I still refused to look at him and concentrated on the task in my hands. But Christian had other plans because apparently, he enjoys my misery. The screeching sound of a chair right beside me had me groaning loudly, my eyes flickering to my right, to witness as he pulled a chair from there and settled it right beside mine before he sat down on it.

My glare had him give me an innocent smile, "I will get bored, so-" he mumbled, defending and explaining why he chose to sit right beside me.

I huffed out and looked back at my computer, furiously typing down the words, the clicking sound of the keyboard enveloping the whole room. He sensed my deep frustration and thankfully enough, he kept silent, allowing me to carry on, but it was almost impossible, not when I could feel him so close, the side of his arm innocently brushing against mine with every move I made. His masculine cologne invading my nostrils with every breath I took.

He is just so infuriating.

At that moment, I wished to just stop breathing. The only way to not be distracted by him, I guess.

He pressed his elbow over my desk, resting his cheek in his palm as he watched my screen, making sense of what I am doing, "I taught you this," He commented, a bit giddy at the realization, speaking his thoughts out loud as he pointed a finger at my excel sheet, addressing the risk-return analysis I was busy finishing up since this morning.

True to his words, I did take this analysis in his class. Looks like I wasn't really paying attention since it's taking me a day to finish up and I am still ending up with the wrong percentages. I could only wonder why...

"But you know if you first calculate the expected return, investment by investment, you could find...wait let me show you how-" He started to speak before he pulled my keyboard to his side, selecting and deleting the table I was working on since morning all at once before he started typing an equation in its place. My eyes widened at his audacity, it took me a day to finish these and he just deleted them?

He selected the next seven columns and pressed enter, letting the program calculate the percentages simultaneously, "See, now you can do the analysis, one by one," He carried on, pointing at something on my screen but I was too busy gawking at him, "As you see over here, from the low expected return value of investment one, you can deduce that it's safer, and when you compare it with the standard deviation, it means it has a low risk and so on."

His eyes fell on me, checking if I got it but all I heard was blah blah blah, I am smart, I could finish what took a day from you in less than five minutes...

Way to boost my wrecked self-confidence.

I nodded my head, crossing my arms over my chest as I gave the screen a thorough look, going again through the steps he made in my mind till it finally clicked, "Oh," My lips parted as I shot forward in my seat, finally keeping up with where I went wrong, "Oh my god yes, now I get it!" I said, a bit louder, excited at the fact that I can finish this up faster than I anticipated, "Thanks," I said in a rush, my fingers resuming my work and doing it according to his way this time.

Midway through my analysis, my stomach decided to embarrass me, grumbling out loud in hunger, and begging me to put some food in it, "Lilly, your father was right, you need to eat," Christian said, resting his hand over my arm, trying to grab my attention away from work. I looked at him, knowing very well that I needed the energy boost. The last I ate was just a salad at lunch, which was like six hours ago. I am practically starving.

I nodded, picking up my phone, "What do you want to eat?" I asked him as I checked for nearby places to order from.

My gaze flickered up from my phone, watching the small smirk that lifted one side of his lips up, "Well, since you are asking then-" I immediately pressed my hand over his mouth, glaring at him, "If you dare make a sexual comment, I will throw you from my window!" I warned, very serious.

His eyebrow raised and he left a kiss on the inside of my palm, infuriating me more. He gave me a wink and I pulled my hand back, itching to slap him and have one thing go right on this horrendous day, "Pizza?" I shot out, angrier than I should. He shrugged, "Pizza sounds fine."

I nodded and ordered our food before I resumed my work, finishing up seventy percent of it till our late dinner finally arrived. The office's phone buzzed and I answered, the security guard checking if I ordered food; I confirmed and asked them to bring it up. When it's an innocent pizza, they call and ask me but when it's a tall British guy, they just let him waltz in just fine.

I need to bring up this matter with dad someday. We need an urgent change of security guards.

Sighing, I got up to my feet, unlocked my office, and received my food. I offered the delivery man an appreciative smile, handing him his tip and thanking him before I latched the door shut and walked back to my desk. I turned off my monitor and moved my stuff aside, making a place for the pizza boxes. I opened them up and sat down, picking up a slice and taking a bite.

My eyelids glided down, the hot melted cheese triggered the sweetest form of pleasure in my taste buds and I moaned in satisfaction as I swallowed it down, already reaching for my second bite. Feeling his eyes on me, I let my glaring gaze flicker up to him, silently asking him to eat his food and leave me to enjoy mine.

His lips twitched into a small smile before he reached for a slice and joined me. I shamelessly took another one and leaned back into my seat, "So," I fished for a conversation to cover up the silence, "Aren't you going back to the university for this term? Don't you have a job?" I mocked, "Isn't there another student for you to seduce and sleep with?"

His eyebrow raised, dissatisfied with my choice of words, "I don't date my students," He said and I almost choked on my heavenly pizza, "Uhm, excuse moi," I said, pointing at myself and he rolled his eyes, "You were the only exception."

"Oh wow, I've never felt so special and lucky till this moment," I remarked ever so sarcastically.

"Anyway," he stressed out, asking me to drop it, "To answer your question, I am on a sabbatical for this term," He said and I let out a low groan, "So, I am not getting rid of you any time soon, am I?"

Ever so casually, he just shook his head before he backed into the chair, his gaze dead serious as it settled on my face, "Lilly, until Louis gets caught, I am not going anywhere," He said, his jaw tightening at the mere thought of him.

I sighed, leaning forward and addressing the subject seriously once and for all, "Look, I get it, you're scared," I said, "First, you don't have to be, because I am not," I clarified, honestly speaking, "And second, being worried doesn't give you the right to just pop up here anytime you feel like it."

"Then, answer my calls next time," He stressed out, annoyed by how I keep pushing him away. Mr. smug face can't have his ego bruised, can he?

I shook my head, "I do as I please."

His eyes slightly narrowed at me, a bit suspicious of my calm attitude toward this, "How come you're not scared?" He asked and I just shrugged, pulling up a napkin to wipe at my mouth, "I am just not," I casually said.

"No, I know why," he said, trying to read beyond the surface and I gave him an unfazed look at his lame attempt, "Louis threatened you, he didn't threaten your parents," He shook his head, "He didn't threaten you brother, he made it very clear that you are his next target," He said, his words stealing the cool poker face I was trying to pull, "And that's exactly what you want, don't you?"

I swallowed hard, letting my eyes drift away from him, my appetite lost as I pushed the pizza box away, turning on my computer screen again so I can finish up before midnight hits, "Lilly!" He grated out, his hand wrapping over my arm, forcing me to look at him and face this bullshit.

"What?!" I shot out, just as furious.

The grey in his eyes took on a very dangerous tone, the same shackles he bound me with for two long years. The rage intensified in his smoky gaze, "Since I saw you at the airport, I felt something was off about you," He remarked, the muscles of his jaw working, "You want him to come after you, don't you?"

I shrugged, still not giving him an answer. I owe him no answer. It's my job only to fix this. I started it somehow and I should be the one to finish it for good.

A loud breath pushed off his chest, frustrated as he moved forward, extending his arm and reaching for my purse on the other side. My eyes widened, not anticipating him to understand me and my motives so fast. I punched his arm, "Give it back!" I snapped but he easily shrugged my hand off as he opened my purse and pulled what he wanted from its inside.

His eyelids dropped down for a passing second, trying to keep calm as he raised the gun I kept in there up high, showing it to me, his eyebrow raising, "Where the hell did you even get this?!" His enraged words enveloped the room, bouncing off the wall and coming back as an echo. I gulped down, the office felt so small and I felt trapped, I just wanted to move back and run away, I didn't want anyone to interfere in my decisions and dictate what I should and shouldn't do.

"Lilly, where did you get this from," He grated it out again and I refused to answer. It wasn't that hard to steal one from back when we were in Italy. Practically everyone was armed. It wasn't a hustle to obtain one and go unnoticed.

"If he..." His loud angry breath made my nerves quiver with unease, "If he attacks you, do you really think you can fight him off with this and win?" He said, indirectly mocking my plan.

I nodded, "I can at least try."

He suppressed his growl as he shot up from his seat, "And what? Die trying?!"

"It doesn't matter," I mumbled, a bit lower for him to hear but he caught it nevertheless.

He leaned down, pressing each hand over the chair, trapping me between him and my seat, his face in close proximity to mine, "You know this is a suicide mission, you'd be insane to think you can take him yourself."

I bit at the inside of my cheek, staring back at him with full determination, "If it means a slight chance at saving my family from him, then yeah, I would risk it."

Each word fed the fury taking over his expression, "It's stupid, Lilly!"

I shrugged, rolling my eyes, "Well, I am stupid, so, deal with it."

He shook his head in disbelief and backed away, tucking the gun into the back of his pants, "This stays with me, and don't even think of getting another one," My eyes widened and I shot up from my seat, "Give it back, its mine!" I tried to reach for it but he effortlessly kept me at arm's length, blocking my way from retreating it back.

"Give it back!" I snapped, "Why can't you just leave me the hell alone? Can't you just stop pushing yourself into my business!"

"Well darling, your business is mine, so you better cut off this nonsense or-"

I crossed my arms over my chest, scoffing, "Or what?" I challenged. What could he possibly do-

"Or I will tell your father about this stupid plan cooking up in your mind."

I scoffed, "Yeah, as if you'll just walk up to the man you claim to hate more than anything and do that."

He nodded, his expression not once wavering, "When it's your safety at the line, I would do anything."

"Whatever," I mumbled as I slumped over my chair, knowing very well I can't win this argument this way.

"Drop this topic and just let me finish my work so we can leave," I grumbled out, reflecting my deep annoyance due to his presence.

He didn't like my attitude but he decided to keep silent for now as I finished up the left tasks. I couldn't help but go over the thought of him talking to dad. He wouldn't, I am sure. He can barely stand the mention of his name, let alone go and speak with him. He is just trying to scare me, and I won't let him achieve that. I am getting the gun back, he will see.

I don't know how much time passed, maybe an hour, maybe two, probably more, I was rather engrossed in my work to notice what Christian was doing. He was watching me at first, probably checking if I am doing what he showed me the right way. Then I felt his hand playing with the loosened strands of my hair, bored out of his mind. I moved forward, indirectly asking him to not touch me. After that, he went silent for too long but I still refused to look at him.

Saving all of my finished work, I shut down my computer and let out a loud tired sigh. I rubbed at my eyes, sleep and exhaustion starting to take over every muscle in my body. A small yawn escaped my lips and I checked my watch to see that it was nearing midnight. Shit, I really overstayed. I let my gaze flicker to my side, curious at what was keeping him soundless for the past half an hour. It was so not like him.

I almost smiled; He was fast asleep. Boredom probably took the best of him and knocked him down. His arms were crossed over his chest, his biceps bulging beneath the short sleeves of his grey T-shirt. His tattooed arm resting on top and stealing my attention the most. The form of art covering it always left me amazed and I recalled how many times I've traced every pattern drawn, how I know what was buried beneath the ink, hidden from everyone's sight.

His head was slightly tilted to the side toward me, a bit uncomfortable, but it was the only angle available. His eyes were closed, peaceful, his jaw chiseled and a bit tight, with a light stubble covering it. His hair a generous mess above his head, a few strands had fallen over his forehead, and almost an instinct or maybe an act my hand was used to but involuntarily it moved up and gently brushed them away.

My small action had his eyelids glide open, waking up at my mere touch. I gulped down, taken aback by my own move and I instantly pulled away before he would notice, "Come on, I finished everything, let's go," I mumbled monotonously as I got up to my feet, gathering my things and dropping them into my purse. I pulled my phone out and checked the recent notifications. Nothing important seemed to grab my attention so I pushed it back in and took a hold of my car keys.

Christian rushed a hand over the top of his head, watching me as I moved around. He inched closer and pulled my blazer from the hanger. He let it rest over my shoulders, his fingers so not innocently brushing the bare skin, "It's cold outside," He mumbled, urging me to wear it.

I nodded, placing my arms into the sleeves, and walked forward, both of us heading outside of my office. Him being him, he rested his hand over my lower back. Me being me, I pushed it away and shot him a glare that spoke DO NOT TOUCH ME AGAIN. He couldn't seem less bothered as he reached for me again.

I decided to ignore him, just a few more seconds and I will be free of him for the day. I made sure to look both ways as we headed downstairs, checking for any other presence. I doubt it but I still had to be cautious. It was almost impossible for anyone else to be here. Just newbie me trying to prove herself. Ugh.

We reached the parking lot and I pressed the button over the smart key fob, unlocking my car, impatient to get home and sleep; I have a hectic weekend waiting for me.

"Where is your car?" I asked and he pointed to the visitor's part of the lot, "Over there."

I nodded, "Okay, what are you waiting for, leave," I said, my tone impatient, waving my hand and dismissing him.

His eyebrow raised but before he could make one of his comments, I added, "Also, don't do this again," I nodded toward the building, "You can't just barge in whenever you feel like it, okay, you're damn lucky my dad didn't see you today," I said, warning him, for his sake.

A small smile touched his lips, "You worry about me," He said, a statement rather than a question.

I rolled my eyes, "In your dreams."

I was about to kick him toward his car when I heard footsteps nearing us and my eyes caught the sight of someone walking into the parking lot. Oh shit. My eyes widened and I opened the backseat of my car, "Get in, get in!" I hissed, scared of it being someone I know, and here I thought this day couldn't get any worse.

Christian joined me inside and I closed the door, a bit louder than I intended. I pressed a hand over my forehead, facepalming at my stupidity, "Please tell me he didn't see us," I mumbled and Christian was just purely confused, "Who?"

"I don't know, someone was th-"

"Lilly," My name followed by a phone's flashlight being pointed at my window had me squint my eyes, internally groaning at my stupid luck. Recognizing the voice as Zacks's, I rolled my window down, facing him because I have no other choice, "Yeah?"

He moved the flashlight away from my face, his eyebrows pulling closer, "What are you doing here at this time?" He asked and I gulped down, "I just had some work to finish," I mumbled and that's when his eyes flickered beside me, noticing Christian as well. Oh fuckity fuck. Confused about who the stranger is, Zack just gave him a nod before he turned back to me.

"You were working till now?" He asked shocked.

Instead of answering his question, "Well, you're here too, so-" I pointed out.

He sighed and nodded, "Yeah, I was also finishing up some last-minute work," He mumbled tiredly, "Anyway, I was just surprised to see you here," He added, straightening himself and edging away from my car, "I will see you later, goodnight."

I nodded and waited for him to walk away before I slammed my head into the seat in front of me, cursing my luck. Maybe, he won't tell anyone. He doesn't even know who Christian is, right?

"Who's that?" Speaking of the devil...

I groaned, "Uncle Ashton's nephew," I mumbled.

"Oh, so he's golden boy's cousin," He commented, earning the millionth glare of the day from me, "No wonder I didn't like him," He added with an arched eyebrow and if I wasn't so tired I would've jumped at him and slapped him.

"Stop calling him that," I said as I leaned back into the seat and crossed my arms over my chest, too exhausted to move and sit upfront. I felt so energyless to even drive at the moment. I pressed my eyes shut for a short second, trying to kick myself back in.

Letting out a low breath, I opened up my eyes and turned my face to the left, looking at him. He already had all of his attention on my face, watching me for some reason. He brought his hand up and tucked my hair behind my ear, "Are you moving into a new place?" He asked.

My eyebrows pulled closer, "How do you know that, creep?"

"I saw you looking at some furniture on your computer," He replied, disturbed by the mere thought as he added, "You know this is definitely not the ideal time to be alone, right?"

I shrugged, "I don't care," I mumbled, "I am not stopping my life because of Louis."

"When will you stop being so damn stubborn?"

"When you stop pushing your nose into my life," I answered.

"This mouth of yours is gonna drive me mad one day," He said, part annoyed, and another thinking of something else entirely as I saw his eyes involuntary descend to my lips.

Usually, I would slap him and kick him out of my car, but not right now, I had other plans, so I let him take the bait. He moved closer, his hand going toward the other side of my neck, his fingers all bunched up between the strands of my hair, angeling my face on the right side as his lips fell into mine with full force, knocking my breath off.

I didn't think. I didn't want to understand what I was feeling at all. My eyes closed and my hand curled over his wrist, kissing him back as my other hand traveled to his shoulder, moving down his back till I felt the coldness of the gun brush my fingertips. I didn't want him to feel me take it away so I deepened the kiss, my other hand going to the back of his hair, tugging at it, knowing exactly what makes him tick as I bit down at his lower lip.

A groan rumbled from him and into my mouth, tightening his hold around me and lost in the moment that he didn't feel me pull the gun and push it into the seat behind him, as far as I can so he won't notice it when we pull apart. When it was all done, I edged backward, breaking the kiss and any contact of our skins. I felt a lump block my throat at what I just did.

I swallowed hard, my eyes on his hazy ones as I asked, "Don't ever do that again," I mumbled, never wanting his lips on mine ever again, for whichever motive there is.

A loud breath pushed out of his chest, "Come on, leave," I mumbled as I opened the door and stepped outside, reaching for the driver's seat. Christian followed my lead, going down, apparently still not aware of what I did. Good.

"Goodnight," I mumbled lowly as I shut the door, not waiting to hear any more words from him as I roared the engine to life and drove off as fast as I could into the empty street.

Feeling an itch over my skin, almost like something was biting on it, I opened my window, allowing the cold air to tumble in with full force, wrapping around my hair, letting it fly everywhere, and allowing its coldness to cover my flushed skin, maybe wanting to erase his touch...I don't know, I just felt every nerve in my body on fire.

I felt a few silent tears trickle down my cheek, I didn't know what was the reason behind them. I don't understand myself and my emotions lately. I just wiped it off and headed home. When I reached our house, I parked the car and went down, pulling the gun out from where I hid it and securely dropping it back into my purse. Trying to be as careful as possible, I silently unlocked the main door and walked in, afraid to make any noise and wake them up if they were to be sleeping.

"Lilly," My mother's voice had me pause in my steps, my eyes flickering to her. Lines etched over her forehead as she walked closer, "Were you still at work?" She asked, concerned.

I nodded, "Yeah."

"Oh, it's really late, don't exhaust yourself this much," She said, rubbing her hand over my arm, worried as she read the tired look on my face.

I forced on a smile, "It's okay."

She sensed my distorted state, "Lilly, sweetie, are you okay?"

I nodded, biting at the inside of my cheek, scared of the tears pushing at the threshold, waiting for one word to drop down. I was teetering right on the edge. The concern flashing into her soft gaze was enough for me to fall, it pushed me forward, crashing into her arms and hugging her so very tight, letting some of the tears free into her shoulder. She immediately hugged me, her hand soothingly rubbing over my back, "What's wrong?" She asked, breathless and taken aback by my sudden outburst.

I didn't even know the answer to that, "Mom, why am I like this," I mumbled, "What's wrong with me?"

She wrapped her hands over my arm, edging backward and forcing me to look at her, her eyes a bit wide, puzzled at my words, "Baby, there is nothing wrong with you, why would you say that?" She said, so certain, the worry had her frowning, unable to comprehend what was going on through my head.

I shook my head, trying and searching for answers; Why does it feel like there is this huge crack in my foundation? Why am I always making stupid decisions? Why am I so attached to the past, never able to move on or resolve anything? Why can't I figure out what to do? Why whenever I feel like I paved my way ahead, everything comes crashing down?

I wiped at my face, sniffling, "You know what, I think I am just so tired and sleepy," I mumbled, smiling to ease her worry, "Lilly-" She started to say and I shook my head, "I have a long day ahead, I better go and sleep," I inched closer and kissed her cheek, "Goodnight, mom."

*************

Friday passed in a blink. In the morning, dad and I went and checked the apartment. He looked so hesitant but he approved somehow. I am still not sure how he accepted, what was going on in his mind, I could only wonder. After that, I spent the rest of the day packing my things, Sally and mom helped me all through, stuffing the boxes and placing them aside for the moving company to pick them up later.

"You sure you won't need help tomorrow?" Mom asked, rubbing a hand over her forehead, a bit tired after one heck of a day. I nodded, snuggling under the duvet, pulling it away from Sally and into my side. She groaned and pulled it back, both fighting over it as we used to do whenever she used to sleepover in the past.

"No, no, we can manage," Sally said to mom, "There is just one room left to be painted, we decided to do it ourselves, Conner, Sally, Noah, Max, also Chase, they all are going to help," I added, yawning and closing my eyes, "We will clean after and all will be ready for the moving company to come on Sunday."

She looked pleased, "Okay, call me if you need anything tomorrow," She said, turning off the lights, "Goodnight you two."

We mumbled goodnight and when the door closed, I let out a low tired moan, moving to the side and throwing my arm over Sally, spooning with her because I have no other option. She groaned, "Move away," She said sleepily.

"Shush, pretend I am Conner and sleep," I mumbled, closing my eyes. I chuckled when she pinched my arm, not satisfied with my words.

Exhaustion took over and it took us minutes only and we both were fast asleep.

**************

Saturday

Looking at the phone's frontal camera, I used it as my mirror and fixed my messy bun, making sure the red ribbon I used to tie around it was presentable. Satisfied with my reflection, I closed my phone and pushed it into my jeans overall's pocket. I licked my lips, wetting them as I rang the bell and waited by his door.

Seconds later and it got opened. I involuntarily smiled, "Hi, neighbor," I said and Chase's lips lifted into a similar warm smile, "The name is Lilly," I extended my hand forward and he went on with my stupid game, shaking my hand, "I am moving into the apartment across from you," I pointed at it, "And I was hoping you would lend this stranger a hand and help us out," My eyebrow raised and a low chuckle left his mouth at my silliness.

He nodded, "Let me change and I will be right there," He said, addressing his pilot's clothes. My eyebrows pulled closer, "Hey, but if you are tired, you don't have to," I said, worried if he didn't sleep or something because of his messy flight schedule.

He shook his head, "No, not all," He said, sounding certain, "I'll be there in five."

I nodded, "Can you please bring with you water and anything that can be eaten, because Conner keeps complaining about how I am making him do labor work and not offering anything in return," I rolled my eyes and he nodded, knowing his friend and his antics very well.

I left him to change and walked back into my new apartment. Just as I expected, Conner and Sally were playing with the paint, making a mess everywhere. Max was sitting up on the kitchen counter, busy on his phone, and Noah was the only one actually helping out. I walked closer to him and picked up a brush, "It's nice, right?" I asked, addressing the apartment.

He nodded, smiling as his eyes drifted around us, "Yes, it suits you."

"You'll visit me often, won't you?" I said as I took the area beside him and started painting it.

He nodded, "Of course," He said, leaning closer and playfully bumping his arm with mine. I looked at him, glaring at how he made my brush-holding hand move and ruin my straight line of paint. He winked before his gaze flickered behind me and to the door, falling on someone, "Lover boy is here," He commented, triggering me on purpose.

I shot him a glare and used the brush to place paint all over his shirt, "Shush, stop calling him that!"

He looked down at his shirt, "Hey!" He shot out, annoyed at how I ruined it.

I left his side and walked to Chase's, Conner was already there, snatching the water bottle and shugging half of it, as if he did anything to make him thirsty. I purposely bumped into him, making him spill some water all over himself, coughing as it went through the wrong pipe.

He shot me a glare before he turned to Chase, "Did you bring anything that can be eaten?"

"I thought I'd go to the market and pick up some snacks," He said, his eyes drifting to me, "Wanna come with?"

I nodded, "Yeah sure," I mumbled, coming closer to his side. I pointed at Conner and Sally, "You two do some actual work until we get back," I warned, and Conner waved me off with his middle finger before he threw his arm around Sally's shoulder, casually pulling her along as they walked away.

I shook my head at them, "What type of friends do you have?" I mumbled, turning around and walking alongside him as we left the house.

"Yeah, he's insane, never mind him," He said and Conner shot from behind us something like I heard you but we ignored him. I almost shivered when Chase's hand went behind my back, leading me forward and into the elevator. I gulped down, sucking into a deep breath as I got myself accustomed to his innocent touch.

We've been kind of...okay lately. Since we got back, we are civil with each other. We didn't fight again, we didn't open any topic about the past, or the kiss that we shared, or the fact that we were about to jump each other's bones if we weren't interrupted...thank you god for that.

Actually, in my search for an apartment, he was the one to suggest this place. It has just gotten available for rent and I couldn't be happier, because it fits right into my criteria. Having him next door, was an added bonus; to have someone you know just right there across from you, it's important. I don't want to be entirely alone in here. Having him this close is actually giving me a weird sense of warmth.

When we reached his car, I was about to enter when I seemed to notice my messy clothes, "Oh shit, I have paint all over me," I mumbled, looking down at my overalls, where spots of white paint were here and there.

"Hold on, I think I have my gym hoodie in the trunk," Chase said, always to the rescue as he opened it up and pulled a white hoodie from the back. He walked to my side and handed it over.

I smiled, "Thankeww," I said as I placed it over myself, pushing my arms into its oversized sleeves and sinking deeply into it, my small figure getting lost in the warm fabric.

I got inside the car, trying to zip it up and hide the mess underneath. I extended my arm forward, showing him how the long sleeve fully covered my hand and dangled on the side, "Why are you so big?" I said, pressing my lips into a thin line, and stopping myself from making a dirty joke about the question I just asked.

His eyebrow raised before he gently took a hold of my arm, folding my sleeves up and finding my lost hand, "The question is why are you so small."

I looked down at myself, pouting, "I am not that small," I mumbled. I was of average height, 5'6', not too short, and not too tall, "But the thing is, I've lost so much weight lately," I added, my lips curling up in annoyance as I stared at myself, not satisfied.

"Yeah, I've noticed," Chase said as he roared the engine to life and took off, his eyebrows pulling closer in what looked like worry, "Are you not eating well?"

I shrugged, "I think so," I mumbled. I mean, can you blame me? With everything that happened and is still happening, I either have no appetite or just have no time to eat.

"Anyways, I am gonna be your lovely annoying neighbor soon, so, you will have to cook and feed me," I said, turning my tone playful.

His eyebrow raised, "And who exactly made me responsible for your diet?" He said, his tone matching mine.

I narrowed my eyes at him, "Would you rather have me die of malnutrition?" I asked, "You'd feel guilty, I am doing this for you," I shrugged, "Just so you won't be guilty after my death, I know your big soft heart."

My playful words didn't serve their purpose, the opposite actually, they stole the smile from his face. Lines etched his forehead as he seriously added, "Don't say that."

"I am just kidding," I said, addressing the whole death topic. My humor is dangerously deteriorating lately with my depressed dark mind.

His eyes met mine, a very soft blue stealing all of my words and jumbling up my thoughts, a one I wish to go back and meet for the first time, how badly would I change everything...

"I am already worried sick about the whole thing," He spoke out, voicing his thoughts aloud, "They didn't catch Louis yet and I can't help but think that he'd show up again at any time and maybe," he sucked into a deep breath, "Hurt you this time."

I swallowed hard and shook my head, "Don't worry about that," I urged.

"How can I not?" He asked, his voice held an edge, "You are gonna be living alone now," He added, another person dissatisfied with my will to resume life the normal way, "It slightly calms me down that I am next door, but still-"

I fidgeted with the hem of the hoodie, torturing the fabric in my nervous grip, hating how this subject is being brought up by everyone. I felt his hand rest over mine, and shaking me out of my haze. He gave me a gentle squeezing, reading my anxiousness, "I didn't mean to bring it up and upset you-" He started to say and I shook my head, "No, it's not that," I mumbled.

He nodded, understanding, "It's just this is all that I can think about since we get back," He said, "This calm is not comforting, it's like the one right before a storm."

I sucked into a deep breath and forced on a small smile, "Just don't worry, I have a feeling it's all going to be okay."

He decided to go on with my fake optimism, dismissing the topic as we reached the market. I went down and so did he. I placed my hands into the hoodie's pocket, trying to extract myself out of that gloomy mood as we walked inside.

I took a small basket from the side, "Why don't you go pick up the drinks and I will get the snacks" I suggested, trying to save time and he nodded, heading toward the drinks aisle and I walked into the opposite one, searching for the snacks.

I filled the basket with different types of crackers, cookies, and whatnot. I reached the chip's stand and gave them a thorough look, picking up all of our favorites. The sound of something hitting the floor grabbed my attention, my eyes flickering to the right, watching as a couple of the cheese puffs barrel, the big ones, tumbled to the floor with a low thud, "Shit, shit," The girl that made them fall hissed, gathering them up again.

I inched closer, offering a hand as I picked up the two that fell into my side and placed them back over the stand. The girl sensed my presence and turned around, "Uh, thanks-" She started to say, appreciative before recognition flashed into her eyes.

An instant smile pulled up at my lips, "It's you," I said, "You're the girl from the airport."

She returned my smile with a similar genuine one, "And you are the one with the stalker ex-boyfriend," She said and I chuckled, nodding, "Yup, that's me!"

I placed the basket aside and extended my hand, "It's Lilly by the way," I introduced and she placed her hand in mine, "Evelyn," She said, her dirty-blonde hair pulled up into a short ponytail, the bangs covering her forehead super cute and suiting her very well. I don't think bangs would look good on me, maybe I should try it once...

"So, that boyfriend still stalking you?" She asked, raising a very unsatisfied eyebrow and I sighed, "Yeah, but nothing I can't handle."

She shook her head, sighing loudly, "If you need help, just give me a call, we can tie him up and teach him a lesson, I have connections," She was aggressively adorable and I couldn't help my low laugh.

"I really like you," I said and her grin widened before her eyes grew wide in terror, "I am very super straight by the way," She said, feigning horror at my words and I chuckled, shaking my head, "Me too, believe me!"

She gave me a wink before she pulled one of the big cheese puffs jars and hugged it to her chest, "Are you having a party?" I asked, addressing the family-size chips she was carrying and the basket full of different types of snacks.

She shook her head, "Just your average weekend night, just me, my cats, and a movie," My eyebrows pulled closer at her serious tone and I almost believed her. Her eyes grew wide, "I am kidding, don't believe that, I don't even have cats, I am allergic," I chuckled at her silly words, "Just having friends over," She answered, her eyes going to mine, "What about you?"

"Oh, I am moving into a new place and my friends are helping out so I have to feed them," I said and her lips parted, "Oh, cool," She said before she pointed a hand to my neck, and giggled, "That explains the paint."

I groaned and rubbed a hand over my neck, "Yeah."

"Lilly, I didn't know which one to get, do you thi-" Chase's words paused midway and I whirled around, my eyes falling on him, while his were on Evelyn behind me. His eyebrows pulled closer, almost as if he could place her face somewhere.

I took the drinks from him and placed them into my already stuffed basket, "Let's just take them both," I suggested but I don't think he listened to me.

"Uh, Chase," I mumbled, turning to Evelyn to introduce her, "This is-"

"Evelyn," He said the word on my behalf and I stared at him in utter bafflement.

What? Does he know her?

A small smile crept onto her face, "Yeah, and you're the nice pilot man who saved me," She said, clearing and at the same time doubling my confusion.

Chase returned the smile, "I go by Chase over here," He said.

She giggled, and her arms tightened over the chips jar, she looked...nervous, "It's...Ryder, right?" She checked and he nodded, "Uh, my father, he mentioned your father," She clarified how she knew his last name and I stood in the middle, gaping at them and understanding nothing.

She frowned, "I don't think my dad likes your dad," She said and Chase nodded with a low scoff, "I can say the same."

She chuckled, shaking her head at the silly thought, "Do you know why?"

Chase shrugged, "I have no clue," He said, "But I think he and my mom were university friends?" He added, uncertain.

"Oh, yeah, I think I heard something like that."

They were casually carrying on with the conversation and I never felt like I don't exist up till to this moment. I cleared my throat and that was the one thing to snap them off their trance, Evelyn's eyes flickering to me then back to him, "Uh, let me not hold you guys back," She said, smiling, "I should get going as well."

She looked flustered as she tried to squeeze the jar into the basket but failed, she ignored that and kept it tucked between her arm and waist, straightening herself and looking at Chase, "Uh, it was nice meeting you," She said, extending her free hand and he did the same, "Likewise."

They shook each other's hands right in front of me. My jaw tightened and I looked away, you know giving them privacy and all. They finally broke their hold and she looked at me, "Hold on," She said, opening her purse and pulling something out, all while accidentally knocking off the cheese puffs jar. Chase, being the knight in shining armor, pulled it up from the ground and handed it back to her, "Thanks," She said, a bit of redness crept to her cheeks, embarrassed at her clumsy actions.

She scribbled something over the paper she had pulled and pushed it toward me, "This is my number," She said, ever so sweetly, giving me a wink, "In case that boyfriend of yours does something again."

I nodded, unable to smile back as I took the paper from her. She gathered her things and turned around, waving me and Chase bye as she walked away, dropping the jar a couple more times on her way out. She was a cute clumsy mess...but looks like I wasn't the only one thinking that.

I looked back at Chase, to see him watching her retreating back till she disappeared into another aisle. My jaw tightened and I picked up the heavy basket, glaring at the clueless him as I grumbled out, "Do you want to leave or would you rather stay here?"

My words seemed to shake him back in, his unaware innocent gaze fell into me, "Uh yeah," He scratched the back of his head, his throat bobbing, "Let's go."

I stayed silent on the drive back to the house, and Chase didn't bother to open a conversation either. When we arrived, I went down too fast, while he took the bags and followed.

I pulled the phone out of my pocket when it vibrated, the battery signaled low. I looked at Chase, "You go, I will grab the charger from my car and follow you."

He nodded and left the parking area, heading for the underground elevator. I moved toward my assigned spot and pulled my keys out, pointing it toward my car, ready to unlock it but the sight ahead had me take a couple of steps backward.

My hand flew to my mouth, on the side of my car, over the door, there were two words written in...red paint or maybe something else. Blood?My chest heaved with every breath I took, a bit of panic rushed to my chest, because the car is parked inside, supposedly safe behind the main gate where the guards stood but someone was still able to get in. Too much for safe.

The words were simply, 'Tick tock.'

Just that.

Two meaningless words, yet they held a bigger meaning.

My eyes caught another thing and I stepped forward. Behind the windshield wipers was a folded piece of paper, safely tucked in there. Gulping down, I reached for it. My fingers slightly shaking as I opened it up, reading the words written inside;

'Hey, little one,

I think you are doing me a huge favor by moving into a new house,

all alone, unguarded, you know, much easier for the wolfs to attack.

Anyways, keep your eyes open, because;

Tick tock, goes the clock,

And now what shall we play?

Tick tock, goes the clock,

It's time for our second game.

Tick tock, goes the clock,

And then what shall we see?

Tick tock, until the day,

Your blood will be the paint and the painter shall be me.'

************************************

Hey! It's me!

After soooo long, I finally updated this book. I just seemed to realize that I really missed our little bug.

Anyways, what do you think of the chapter?

Your thoughts on everything? xD

Christian? Evelyn? Lilly and her obvious not stable mental state?

Also, Louis(Uncle Nathan) and his poems are back xD

What could be his next move? Who knows!

See ya soon!

Love y'all <3