ã€ŠA Mafiaéˆ¥æªš Obsessionã€‹


 Chapter 1

    CRYSTAL

    I closed my eyes nervously, exhaling and inhaling.  Even though I knew I had been doing this for some weeks, my legs still felt too heavy to walk me. I had danced several times, I practice ballet and I was absolutely incredible at it but tonight I was going to be dancing as a stripper infront of men old enough to be my father.

    I felt knots tie in my stomach and I wanted to puke. I wished I could be anywhere but here but I just couldn¡¯t make my wish a reality. It took every self restraint in me not to cry out in frustration and anger. Ever since our parents died months ago, it has just been only I and Mabel, my younger sister, fending for each other.

    Life was extremely tough especially when we had to settle a debt of seven hundred thousand that was loaned by my gambling father from a crime boss.

    When he was alive, he never brought us peace and now he was dead and we still don¡¯t have peace as we are left to cover up his disgusting tracks.

    I just wondered why mum had to join him in death.

    Mabel was the only family I had, I took up this job to fend for her and myself and also pay of our father¡¯s debt but time was running out and so did our anxiety increase. By the day I worked in a ballet hall with my crew, dancing decently and performing for people and by night I worked as a stripper. I had applied for so many other well paying jobs but I was never employed. Even though, I had been in this stripper upation for weeks, I truly couldn¡¯t believe the sort of upation I had to engage in to make ends meet and pay off my father¡¯s debt.

    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you ready yet princess?¡±Golden, my work colleague called out to me snapping me out of my reverie as she entered into the dressing room.

    I didn¡¯t even realise I was alone in the magnificent dressing room and I wasn¡¯t also ready to do the work I had to get ustomed to.

    I gave her a faint smile. ¡°I¡¯ll soon be ready¡±

    The red haireddy gave me a broad smile and pinched my cheek slightly. Out off all my colleagues she was the nicest.

    ¡°Look darling I know you didn¡¯t want to be in this sort of business but you just have toe to terms with it. Food ain¡¯t gonna fall from heaven you know. You got to stand and work. Now let me help you put on some make up¡± she said with a grin.

    I allowed her work her magic on my face. By the time she was done, I looked so radiating that I could barely recognise myself whilst I stared at my reflection in the mirror.

    ¡°You are really so talented Golden¡±Iplimented. She flipped her hair and winked at me.

    Suddenly the door swung opened roughly and two otherdy walked inside, perspiration covering their tanned skins.

    ¡°Crystal what are you still doing here? The men are eagerly waiting for your performance¡±ire, one of thedies, chided before taking off her wig and slumping down on a kingsized sofa.

    For a strip club, I had to admit this ce was oozing pure luxury. The building was magnificent, sometimes I wondered who owned it.

    ¡°Boss is here today and there must be no mistakes and sloppy performances¡±Violetta, the seconddy, chorused as she eyed me from up to down like I was infected with leprosy.

    ¡°Chill vilu¡±Golden said with a sigh.

    ¡°Crystal has never messed up and she won¡¯t. Stop being so hard on the poor girl¡±Golden added with a frown.

    ¡°Crystal¡±she began turning to face me.

    ¡°You will do great ok. Go over there and show them what you are made off¡±

    I truly liked Golden.

    I took in deep breaths trying to calm the torrents of nervousness coursing through me and stared at my appearance in the mirror.  I stared at my nude self from myced underpants to my white lingerie and dagger heels. Then my eyes darted to my face and the breathtaking make up Golden applied on it.

    Yup. I truly looked like a certified stripper. My one wish was that Mabel wouldn¡¯t join this line of profession with me.

    ¡°Once you go out there baby, free your mind and rx. You look so tensed. Do your thing and get the money flowing¡±Golden urged with a chortle.

    I gulped and nodded my head.

    I opened the door but not before giving her a soft smile whilst the other two girls exchanged res at me.

    I truly had no idea why they didn¡¯t like me.

    I began walking down the narrow walk way .

    Loud defeaning music and the rush from the crowd could be heard from the hall.

    I approached it briskly. Once I got to the wine coloured closed curtains, I took in deep breaths and tried rxing myself.

    Soon enough the curtain were pulled opened revealing a hall bustling with life. Loud music was sting from all corners of the hall. Some men were dancing shamelessly with multiple women and endless swarm of waiters buzzing around filled the entire atmosphere with the stench of s*ex, dru*gs and alcohol.

    I had no time to stop and think as I was already on the stage with poles sprouting out of them.

    A new song was yed by the dj and the crowd went noisy, cheering and expecting me to dance whilst feeding their eyes on my body. The men were yelling for me to strip myself n@ked. I felt like running back but I couldn¡¯t. I had to do this to put food on the table and settle my father¡¯s debt.

    I immedately began moving my hips. I ran my hands down my body seductively in ordance to the beat of the song and grasped a long pole as I swirled my body around it.

    The men were howling as they fed their eyes hungrily.

    ¡°Damn!!¡±

    ¡°Come n@ked darling!¡±

    ¡°Give us that @ss!!¡±

    I felt so irritated hearing their nudements but I hid my irritation and kept on swaying myself around the pole.

    I released my thoughts and let my my body twist around the pole seductively.

    My eyes travelled around the hall as I danced to the rythm of the song. It then suddenly locked with a pair of cold blue eyes, eyes colder than ciers.

    He locked his eyes with mine, not cheering or howling like the other men. He stared at me like the way a predator would stare at a prey.

    I suddenly felt myself being self conscious on my performance as a result of his fiery like gaze on my body.

    His dark silky silver coloured hair cascaded over his shoulders. I couldn¡¯t really get a perfect view of his face since he sat in the shadows, surrounded by skimpy dressed women whom were seductively caressing his body to get a response from him.

    Something about the way he stared at me gave me goosebumps. I immedately tore my eyes away from him and continued my dancing, twisting my body against the pole in hopes of finishing the dance quickly.

    Slowly the beat came to an end and I immedately packed the money littered on the stage for me.

    From the looks of it, I got about a thousand dors if not more as I walked out of the hall. Today was really my lucky day.

    ¡°Oh my God. You performed so well today!¡±Golden excitedly chirped as she waited for me by the walkway.

    ¡°I truly am so happy Golden. Look at the amount of money I got¡±I replied back ted as I showed her my hands stuffed with money.

    ¡°Keep up the good work sis¡±

    I sighed and stuffed the money inside my bra. ¡°I¡¯ll. I have to be going home now. My sister would be waiting for me¡±

    I quickly hugged Golden and headed to the dressing room to change back to my normal outfit.

    * * * * * * *N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    I slumped on the couch, my hands iling around.  I was damn tired.  Being  a stripper was really not easy.

    ¡°How was work today sis?¡±Mabel asked as she came to sit by my side. She handed me a ss of water to which I collected and mouthed her a ¡®thank you¡¯.

    ¡°It was good. I made eight thousand dors today!¡±I chirped with ecstasy.

    Mabel stared at me with widened eyes.

    ¡°Oh my God! That¡¯s huge. If you can make this amount everyday, we will settle dad¡¯s debt in no time¡±

    Just the mention of my father got me hissing. He got us into this mess and now he is lying peacefully six feet underground whilst we were working our @ss off to pay off his debt.

    ¡°Crystal why don¡¯t I join you so we can raise enough money on time¡±Mabel suggested with a faint smile.

    I shot her a hard re immedately. ¡°Don¡¯t ever join me. There¡¯s no light in this job. I don¡¯t want you to get yourself involve in it. Stick to your normal part time book sales please sis¡±

    She nodded her head reluctantly and slumped her shoulders. ¡°We received another letter by the way¡± she informed me lowly.

    I didn¡¯t need to ask.

    I already knew who it was that sent it and what the wordings were.

    It was from the ruthless crime boss, the one whom my dad took a loan from, reminding us of the ever nearing deadline to pay off our debt.

 Chapter 2

    CRYSTAL

    I pointed my toes and arched my back gracefully on the hands of Sebastian, my ballet partner as we danced together gracefully to the rhythm of the calm music  ying in the dance studio.

    With beads of sweat covering my foreheads, I was goddamn tired. I couldn¡¯t even sleep well the entire night knowing that some ruthless crime boss out there would being for his money soon.

    With the now frequent letters we were recieving, I had a feeling he would being very soon.

    Toppled with my sleep being haunted by those mysterious pair of ocean blue eyes.

    ¡°Ouch!¡± Sebastian immedately eximed as he let go off my body and twisted his toes.

    My face turned scarlet red immedately after I realised I must have stepped on his toes.

    He winced in pain and crunched his face.

    ¡°Crystal what¡¯s the problem?¡±The ballet instructor, L, asked as she came over to my side.

    ¡°I am so sorry Sebastian. It was a mistake¡±I apologised quickly. The soft music came to an abrupt end and  Sebastian nodded his head whilst rubbing his toes.

    ¡°Everyone take a break. Sebastiane let me give you some ointment for your toes¡±L said with a sigh.

    I watched Sebastian limp away with L and I couldn¡¯t help but feel guilty for my silly mistake. I truly need to learn how to keep my anxiety thoughts at bay whenever I was dancing.

    I slumped on the wooden studio floor andid my back down. Sounds of chattering andughing began echoing round the atmosphere by my fellow ballet workers. They were obviously happy with the much needed break we got.

    ¡°Crystal you look so stressed¡±Bailey, my best friend asked as her brows wrinkled to a frown.

    ¡°I¡¯m just tired you know. The dance step was really a very difficult one¡±I replied wiping away the perspiration that covered my temples.

    ¡°You need to cool off hun. Go to the club once in a while and party¡±Bailey urged with a lopsided grin.

    If only she knew I did go to the club every night but not to cool off, to swing my body for filthy men.

    ¡°Besides I heard that Jake likes you¡±She squealed as sheid her back next to me.

    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in him¡±I simply stated which got her abruptly jerking up and giving me a quirky look.

    ¡°Oh wait it¡¯s cause you like chase, your crush¡±she teasingly said with a mischievous grin

    I felt my cheeks heated up and I nodded my head. ¡°I do but I¡¯ve been so busy. I haven¡¯t even had chance to even go visit him and you know I¡¯m so shy to confess my feelings to a boy¡±

    ¡°Well create time. He probably likes you too you know¡±She winked.

    Iughed at her reply. The chances of chase loving me back were slim. I was satisfied with admiring him from afar.

    ¡°Ok everybody on your toes. We have a performanceing upter in the afternoon and so no mistakes¡±The high pitched voice of L cut through our conversation.

    It was time to get back to work. I exhaled deeply and stood up with Bailey.

    We all arranged to our dance formations and stuck up with our partners as the dance process began from the beginning.

    * * * * *

    Time moved really fast and once again the city was sunked back into the darkness and I was back at the entrance of the club. I felt like a bee, ever so busy with no rest.

    I sunked in my shoulders and walked in to the familiar dressing room littered with the chattering of women. The usual boisterous noise of the crowd could be heard.

    ¡°Crystal you came so early today!¡± Golden ted voice sounded through out the room as she came over to hug me.

    I hugged her back and giggled. ¡°Ofcourse. I need to dress up on time for my performance¡±

    ¡°How won¡¯t youe this early with the crazy amount of money you madest night¡±Violetta scoffed as she focused on applying mascara to her face.

    ¡°Cut the girl some ck. You made that much money of your first day vilu¡±Golden retorted back, defending me.

    ¡°Anyways Crystal the boss wants to see you¡±she added turning back to face me.

    A puzzled expression wiped across my face. ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve been in this shit longer than you and the boss has never called any of us privately to dance for him but you just came not so long ago and all of a sudden he wants you dancing for him. You¡¯ve sucked your way to the top¡±ire jeered at me.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything¡±I said with a shaky voice thatcked enough confidence and power.

    ¡°Ignore their taunts. It¡¯s a good thing you came early today. Come on get ready so you can go meet him and tell us all the juicy deeds¡±Golden eyes sparkled like a puppy who had seen a treat.

    I subconsciously nodded my head.

    Golden handed me a nude exposing dress which I wore and shoved me onto a chair.

    In less than twenty minutes she had already done her magic again and I looked so beautiful, older and sexier.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious ok. You are lucky you know. Boss pays good so you will definitely get enough money today just like yesterday¡±Golden said with glee as she observed my tensed expression.

    ¡°He just likes your pretty face that¡¯s all. Don¡¯t feel special¡±Violetta shrugged her shoulders.

    ¡°Shutup and get your ass down the stage¡±Golden snapped back.

    I truly liked how fierce and bold Golden was. I wished I was like that.

    She hissed at both of us and exited the dressing room.

    I wasn¡¯t even concerned about her taunts, I was concerned on meeting the boss.

    I had never met him but I heard he was cruel and unforgiving. A man that held so much raw power and money.

    I really hope I wouldn¡¯t mess up in my performance.

    The door to the changing room opened and a tall bald man stepped inside, squinted eyes roving around until he met with my terrified eyes.

    Was he the boss?

    ¡°She is ready Bruno¡±Golden spoke up with hesitance.

    ¡°Good. Boss wants you doll¡±He said nonchntly not even minding the half naked women in the dressing room.

    The order was loud and clear.

    My heart began palpitating, wanting to break out of the rib cages and my hands began to feel sweaty.

    Golden gave me a reassuring smile as I stepped out of the dressing room with him.

    Oh goodness. Who was this boss?

    Would I meet a middle aged man, hairy and rugged?

    Heaven knew I felt so nervous as a million thoughts ran through my mind on the type of man I would meet.

    He led me to a private lounge before exiting out. The interior was breathtaking; walls aligned with marble stood out and a chandelier stood in the centre of the lounge illuminating it with beautiful dim lights. There was also a mini podium by the centre of the lounge.

    Right there seated on a velvet coloured sofa was the tall frame of a man whose one hand was strapped around the waist of a blonde who held a cigarette, puffing the smoke out of her parted lips.

    My breathing got caught in my throat the moment our eyes locked. He was the same man that stared at me the other night. Now seeing him at a closer range, I had a better view of his face. He had the body of a Greek god. I didn¡¯t expect the boss to be a young man, a handsome one at that.

    His impable suit hugged his arms, showing of his muscles. His silver coloured hair was let to fall like yesterday, it¡¯s locks dangling dangerously over his shoulders.

    His jaw line was sharp and his cheek bones were pointed.

    His lips were a shade of peach and pink and under his long eyshes peeked those cold ocean eyes, colder than ice that stared intently at me. It felt like he was staring deep into my soul. I felt so naked under his brutal gaze.

    ¡°Leave us¡±he ordered the blonde who kept on puffing smokes in the air. His tone was dark andmanding.

    She scrunched her face and red at me but she didn¡¯t dare to object to his orders. She stood up with inaudible grumbles and scurried out of the room, her heels clicking against the floor.

    I casted my gaze downwards and stood on the spot, unsure of what to do.

    ¡°Crystal Price¡±His baritone voice boomed after a torturing moment of silence enveloped the atmosphere.

    How did he know my name?

    ¡°Y-yes? How do you know my name?¡±I stuttered.

    He chuckled and flopped his head back on the sofa. ¡°Believe me, I know a lot more than your name¡±

    I was suddenly doused in an ominous feeling as I stood with this man.

    I locked my fingers together, trying to control my nervousness.

    ¡°You have a debt to pay off¡±He simply  stated in that dark tone.

    I almost choked on the air on hearing that. How did he know that? Who was this man?

    ¡°How-how did you know?¡±

    ¡°Because I am the one whom your father is owing. Too bad he passed away. Now you have to carry his cross¡±He replied huskily.

    So he was the crime boss my cruel father borrowed money from.

    I didn¡¯t even know how to react. I felt glued to the spot. Knots got tied up in my stomach as his blue orbs peered intensely at me.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Get n@ked for me¡±He ordered.

    What?

    That was absurd. I know I am a stripper but I can¡¯t do that.

    ¡°I can¡¯t do that¡±I objected trying to sound brave and stop the jitters from spreading across my body but my trembling voice gave me away.

    He chuckled lowly. ¡°Do it. You can¡¯t pay back my money with those chi*cken bucks you earn daily. Let me atleast help you¡±His tone held a mocking aura in it.

    He was right. I had only managed to raise two hundred thousand out of the seven hundred thousand. Life was really so tough for I and my sister.

    I gulped and with shaky hands, I began undressing myself whilst he hungrily fed his eyes on every inch of my body.

    I couldn¡¯t believe I was fully n@ked in front of this beast. Who does this to a woman?

    He didn¡¯te over to touch me, his eyes already did the touching as it hungrily took in my body.

    ¡°Now go over to the pole and dance for me¡± He demanded.

    I was so doused in shame and embarrassment. I had let down my dignity as a result of a stupid loan my dad took to waste on gambling. Goosebumps began covering my bare skin as the cold air pped against it.

    I ponderously walked over to the stage and held on to a pole.

    There was no music ying so I just had to close my eyes and think of a song in my head so I could dance effortlessly.

    Silence enveloped the atmosphere and the only sounds heard was the sound of my heels clicking against the poles and the ground.

    I couldn¡¯t bring myself to open my eyes and watch him stare at my body but I knew that was what he was doing.

    ¡°You can stop¡±Hemanded after a brief period of time had psed.

    I abruptly stopped and breathed heavily, my bre@sts heaving repeatedly.

    ¡°Come here¡±He ordered.

    I did as I was told and shamelessly walked over to him. He motioned with his hands for me toe sit on hisps.

    I stared at him, disgusted by his request.

    Was making me dance naked not enough?

    ¡°Now¡±He growled. A lone tear slipped pass my eyelids and I heeded to hismand.

    I sat on him and he moved me to sit directly on top his hard se*x.

    I flinched and felt my face going beetroot red as a result of his hard man*hood po*king me.

    ¡°Grin*d me¡± he said gruffly against my ear.

    This was torture. I felt like a sl*ut. I wouldn¡¯t let a man touch me and here this man wasmanding me like he owned my body.

    I closed my eyes and began moving my @ss, my waist and my hips slowly against his bulging manhood. With every move I took, he groaned deeply. He didn¡¯t touch me, instead his hands were kept by both sides of the sofa.

    ¡°Harder¡±he slowly groaned in my ear.

    I felt so petrified and embarrassed by what I was doing.

    I moved my @ss repeatedly up and down his sex and his groans deepened.

    ¡°Fuck crystal. Give me more¡±

    Tears began slipping down my cheeks. I felt so embarrassed but he wasn¡¯t even concerned.

    Hell he didn¡¯t even care about how I was feeling.

    After a long agonising moment of torture, he exhaled deeply and chortled.

    ¡°You can stop¡±

    I felt so relieved. I immedately stood up to face him.

    He stood up with me, his tall frame towering above mine.

    Deeping his hands into a pocket inside his suit, he brought out a cheque book and a pen.

    Right in my presence, I watched him write a cheque of three hundred thousand and he handed it to me.

    My jaws dropped on seeing the amount.

    I collected it with nervous and mortified hands. I didn¡¯t know if I should be happy or sad.

    ¡°Till we meet again dear Crystal¡±he said to my stunned self before stepping out of the lounge, a mischievous smirk etching by the corners of his lips.

 Chapter 3

    CRYSTAL

    ¡°Sis ever since you came  back from the clubst night you¡¯ve been silent. Anything the matter?¡±Mabel asked, probing into the abyss of thoughts that I had fallen into.

    I quickly nced at Mabel and blinked severally. I yawned a little and stretched my bodyzily on the bed.

    ¡°I met him¡±was what I could only utter.

    Mabel¡¯s brows pulled together in a worried look. ¡°Who?¡±

    ¡°The crime boss. The one whose money we have to pay back. He owns the club I work in¡±I confessed.

    Mabel didn¡¯t even try to hide her shocked expression. With jaws dropped and mouth agape, she stared at me doe-eyed.

    ¡°He¨Che made me dance naked for him¡±I whispered as my eyes began welling up with tears.

    ¡°What the fuck!¡±she eximed angrily.

    ¡°Just because you work in his goddamn club, it doesn¡¯t give him that right to do such an absurd thing to you¡±

    I nodded my head at her. Mabel came over to my side and wiped the few traitorous tears that trickled down my cheeks. ¡°Sis I love you for everything you¡¯ve been doing. I¡¯ll always respect you. I couldn¡¯t have asked for a more better sister¡±

    I pulled her in for a warm embrace. She was my only family. I would do anything and everything in my power to make sure I gave both of us the life we deserved.

    We pulled out smiling at each other. I sniffed my nose and stood up, heading for my bagying on top the mini cupboard.

    I took out the cheque he gave me and showed it to her.

    ¡°He gave this to me afterwards¡±I said.

    She was bewildered, shocked as hell, stuperfied. Anything to describe the astonishment on her face.

    ¡°This is three hundred thousand. We¡¯ve raised two hundred making it five hundred and the debt is seven hundred. So we just have two hundred thousand to go. The frequent letters shows that he mighte anytime to take his money and I truly want to pay off this stupid debt and quit this job¡±I exined with a frown.

    ¡°I am so speechless Crystal. You mean he paid this huge amount of money to you? Wow. Some guts he has there. Well anyways you are right. We just have two hundred thousand to go. I truly hope we pay it off. I don¡¯t even want to think of what would happen if we aren¡¯t able toplete his money¡±

    I also dreaded that thought. This man had this omnious dangerous aura around him. I silently prayed we wouldplete his payment so we could finally be at rest.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going for ballet sses today?¡±Mabel asked as she shot up from the bed.

    I shook my head at her. ¡°No I wont be going today. No sses and I really need to rest. I think Bailey ising overter in day¡±

    Mabel took her brown handbag and stuffed some books inside it before strapping it over her shoulder. ¡°Ok sis. You deserve the rest. I¡¯ll be heading to work now. Take care sis¡±

    I baded her farewell and watched her leave the room. I sighed and flopped my head back on the pillow.

    ¡°Two hundred thousand to go. I can do this¡±

    * * * * *This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    The chilly air pped across my face, whipping my hair back and forth. I stuffed some fries into my mouth as Ibed my hair back and walked across the street with Bailey. The evening sky was sshed in a canvas of orange and pink. The street bustled with life with people swarming in various corners.

    I listened to Bailey as she chirped excitedly about the sleepover she had with her boyfriend. I observed my best friend, she was so happy and carefree, not a single worry in the world. Life was so good to her. I wish I could get a taste of this genuine happiness she had.

    I was struggling with debt issues and financial burden. I couldn¡¯t even tell anyone about it. It felt like my soul was dying away slowly with burdens and anxiety weighing it down.

    I kept on listening to Bailey as she went on and on with her chats. I asionally nodded with a smile and that was enough response she needed for her to go on with her chattering.

    Suddenly she held on to my hand tight, nails almost drawing blood from my skin.

    I immedately yanked my hand away from her painful grip and rubbed it, a frown spreading across my face. ¡°Why would you do that?¡±

    She pointed at the other side of the street. I strained my eyes to check who or what it was that got her attention. Immedately I sighted the person, my breathing got clogged up in my throat.

    It was Chase.

    He noticed I and Bailey and crossed the street,ing over to our side.

    ¡°Heydies¡±He greeted shing us his perfect smile.

    I felt all the colours drained from my cheeks and I tried so hard to hide my blush. He was looking as handsome as ever. His caramel coloured hair was ruffled but in a cute way and whenever he smile, he had a line that etched by the corners of his red lips making it seem like a dimple.

    His hazel eyes sparkled with joy as usual on greeting us.

    ¡°Hey chase how are you?¡±Bailey immedately replied with a grin.

    ¡°ssic bailey¡±I thought to myself with a soft smile on my lips. She was never shy with a boy.

    ¡°I am good what about you two?¡±

    ¡°We are fine chase¡±I replied softly. From the corner of my eye, I could see Bailey smirking.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t been seeing you for a while Crystal. It seems you are bing very busy¡±Chase cheekily teased me.

    Bailey nudged at my shoulder for me to speak up. I gulped and tried ignoring the butterfly garden spranging up in my stomach. ¡°I¡¯ve been so busy chase. It¡¯s my bad¡±

    He chuckled and waved it off. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.  I actually lost your contact earlier would you mind dropping it in and you also Bailey¡±

    He brought out his phone and I nervously called my number for him to input it.

    ¡°I don¡¯t really know my number by heart so Crystal will give it to you when you guys text¡±Bailey said, cing emphasis on my name and ¡®text¡¯

    I shook my head at her cunning behaviour, chuckling.

    ¡°Ok then. I¡¯ll text you Crystal and I hope to see you more often. Take caredies¡±Chase replied with his boyish smile and crossed over to the other side of the street.

    I nced at Bailey and a broad smile spread across her lips. ¡°Guess who is soon getting a boy friend¡±

    ¡°Stop that. Stop teasing me¡±I chided her as my face turned scarlet red.

    Did I really have a chance of dating him?

    I didn¡¯t know but I felt happy knowing he promised to text me.

    * * * * *

    Time flew really fast these days. Sometimes I just wished the night would nevere so I wouldn¡¯t have to go to back this irritating club filled with horny ass men.

    After what happened yesterday, I didn¡¯t ever what to step my foot inside here but I just had to. I was so close to getting the full money of the debt and I had no idea when that beast of a man woulde for his payment so I had to work harder.

    I stared at myself once again in the mirror. I had looked so different every night for the past two months. I wasn¡¯t the Crystal everybody knew by the day time. This Crystal here was the crystal that was struggling hard to fend for herself and her sister.

    ¡°Just a little while longer and you will be free crystal¡±I said to myself. It had be my daily reaffirmation.

    ¡°Oh you are here. The boss wants you again¡±Violetta¡¯s harsh voice cut through my thoughts.

    She stood by the door and gave me a hard re.

    I became more perplexed by her sudden information.

    Why would he want me again?

    Does he want me to perform naked again?

    I dreaded that thought because this time, I wouldn¡¯t do it.

    ¡°Girl get your ass off that seat and go meet the boss¡±she barked at me causing me to flinch.

    ¡°What does he want?¡±I managed to speak up.

    ¡°Find out for yourself bitch¡±she jeered before walking out of the dressing room.

    I was the least bothered about her bad behaviour towards me. I wouldn¡¯t stay here forever so I might as well let it slide and keep to myself. Golden was nice to me and I was satisfied with that.

    I walked out of the room, heading towards that same lounge. With shaky hands and nervousness building in me, I knocked on the door.

 Chapter 4

    CRYSTAL

    I suddenly had the urge to throw up but I suppressed it and knocked again, this time louder.

    ¡°Come in¡± a familiar baritone voice responded from the other side. I pushed the door open and stepped inside.

    He was seated in that particr sofa he sat on yesterday with his blue orbs burying deep into my nervous self.

    I dragged my feet from the doorway and closed the door beforeing closer to him.

    ¡°Sit down Crystal¡±He ordered with his hands motioning for me to take a sit next to him.

    Hesistantly, I followed his instruction and sat down by his side. It was just only two of us which made me feel so awkward. His gaze was entirely focused on me, not wavering for a second.

    ¡°Why¨Cwhy did you call me here?¡±I asked trembling. I feared the answer he would give me. I silently prayed it wasn¡¯t for me to dance again for him.

    ¡°Because I want to talk to you¡±

    ¡°Me?¡±I asked shocked.

    He nodded and smirked at me.

    ¡°I want to propose an offer to you¡±He said with a taunt smile on his lips.

    I nodded for him to go on.

    ¡°Sell yourself to me and I¡¯ll cancel your father¡¯s debt¡±

    What!? My eyes widened and sudden anger and panic coursed through me. My shocked expression got him sniggering as his lips pulled to a taunting sneer ¡°Crystal sell yourself to me and I¡¯ll clear off your father¡¯s debt¡±

    My shoulders became tensed and the hairs on my body stood in fear.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    His offer was absurd. I would literally be selling myself off as amodity just to settle a debt? What happens to me afterwards? What happens to my sister?

    I can¡¯t do this. It¡¯s crazy and unthinkable.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to ept sir¡±I objected with an unknown temerity.

    ¡°Call me Leonardo¡±He replied slightly amused by my tone.

    I shrugged my shoulders and rolled my eyes at him. ¡°I ain¡¯t selling myself to you goddamnit. I¡¯ll dance as many nights as I can and pay off your bloody debt¡±

    ¡°Well the date for the debt to be paid is today¡±He replied dropping the bomb.

    That statement hit me like a fieryet. My tongues became tied and I didn¡¯t know how to respond. I immedately casted my gaze downwards.

    ¡°Have you got my cash ready?¡±He taunted leaning closer to me, his face just inches away from mine.

    I shook my head at him, unable to bring myself to speak.

    He pulled back, a satisfied smile on his lips and his arms folded across his chest.

    ¡°Do you know what I¡¯ll do to you if I don¡¯t get my money? Do you know what I¡¯ll do to Mabel?¡±

    I faced him the moment he uttered hisst statement. My sister was the only family I had. If anything happened to her, I wouldn¡¯t be able to live.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt my sister please¡±I pleaded with my hands sped together.

    Tears began trickling slowly down my cheeks. I hated the fact that I was easily emotional and I know him seeing me like this brought him satisfaction.

    ¡°Exactly. Think about my offer Crystal. I give you just twenty four hours. Sell yourself to me and I¡¯ll clear off your father¡¯s debt and take care of Mabel or refuse this offer and suffer the consequences¡±He gruffly said not battling an eyelid at me.

    ¡°Leave¡±He ordered.

    I quietly stood up with my tear stained face and walked towards the door.

    I was caught in between the devil and the sea. What would I do now?

    I approached the door and opened it, hisst word ringing in my ear. ¡°Just twenty four hours Crystal¡±

    * * * * * * *

    I paced round my room, agitatedly. My mind was in turmoil. The resounding echo of Leonardo¡¯s husky voice ringing in my ear.

    ¡°Just twenty four hours Crystal¡±

    God!

    I had just today to make this life changing decision. If i choose to sell myself to him, I¡¯ll just be a meremodity used to pat off a debt. What then bes of my sister Mabel?

    We will be separated. And if I don¡¯t do his bidding the brute would end up harming me and my sister. He might even kill us.

    ¡°Shit!¡±I groaned out loud as vertical wrinkles appeared on my forehead. I felt like screaming out. The hatred I had for my father soared higher than before. He put I and Mabel into this damn endless maze of debt and now we were trapped.

    My life, my freedom, my identity was on the verge of being ripped away from me.

    Tears pooled in my eyes as my mind was in disarray.

    As if on cue, Mabel roughly entered the room.

    ¡°Sis I¡¯m about to¡­¡±she cut herself short when she noticed my fearful and worried state. I quickly forced myself to smile at her and snatched my bag from the sunken sofa, pretending I was looking for something in it.

    ¡°Sis what¡¯s wrong? Is everything ok?¡±she asked, concern webbed all over her face.

    ¡°Everything is fine Mabel. Aren¡¯t you suppose to be heading to work today?¡±I asked, averting my gaze from her¡¯s.

    ¡°C¡¯mon talk to me¡±Mabel sighed. ¡°Ever since you came back from the club yesterday night, you¡¯ve been so withdrawn. Tell me what happened? We¡¯re you throw out¡±

    I tried so hard to fight my tears and appear brave but my eyes failed me and some traitorous tears streaked down my cheeks. I immedately began sobbing with my head downcasted and my face buried in my palms.

    Mabel came over to me and pulled me to her warm embrace, soothing me by patting my back softly and slowly.

    ¡°Talk me to crystal¡± she softly coaxed, pulling me out of her embrace.

    ¡°He wants me to sell myself to him¡±I confessed crumbling into tears.

    Mabel raised a brow at me. ¡°Who?¡±

    ¡°The crime boss that we are indebted to. The deadline for giving him back his money psed yesterday. He offered me a deal. I sell myself to him and he cancels our debt. Or I don¡¯t and he¡­¡±My voice trailed off with a faraway look in my eyes as I whapped my face away from Mabel¡¯s.

    Mabel gasped. Her facial features morphed and became contorted in rage.

    ¡°How dare he!? Are you some sort ofmodity!? You are a human being not a thing! That man is such a devil. You won¡¯t do that¡±

    ¡°If.. if.. I.. don¡¯t, he¡­ might kill us¡±I stuttered unable to bring the words out of my mouth.

    ¡°Let him do his worst. Father put us into this mess. He gambled and got himself involved with those thugs. We won¡¯t pay for his sins. We just have to look for a way to escape this¡±She replied to me determinedly.

    I was appalled by my younger sister¡¯s braveness. In the face of adversity, she stood her ground and held her head up high. I couldn¡¯t be more proud of her.

    If she hadn¡¯t given up then I shouldn¡¯t too.

    A brief silence fell on both of us as we sought for multiple ways to end our dilemma.

    ¡°Let¡¯s leave the city tonight¡±I finally spoke up breaking the terrible silence.

    I can¡¯t believe I never thought of that. I could get I and my sister to flee from newyork and probably settle in some of the little towns in Minnesota, California or even Toronto.

    We would be far away from Leonardo and his stupid ass proposal. I wiped my tears with my palms and gave her a bright smile.

    ¡°To where?¡±

    ¡°We could leave by train and head to Toronto. Bailey¡¯s cousin, Jane stays in Toronto. Probably I could ask her more about it today and she could help us contact her cousin. We could lodge with Jane for the mean time till we get our feet on the ground and hustle for our own ce¡±

    Mabel bit her bottom lip and gave me a mild nod. ¡°Ok sis¡±

    ¡°Do me and favour and pack our stuffs ok. Let me go meet Bailey. Don¡¯t tell anybody about this. He gave me just twenty four hours to decide so I have just today that¡¯s why we will have to leave today¡±I nervously rambled in my speech.

    Mabel nodded and hugged me. I mouthed her an ¡°I love you¡± and quickly made my way outside our apartment.

 Chapter 5

    CRYSTAL

    I walked briskly towards my little apartment. I had talked to Bailey about my sudden urgent relocation to Toronto. She wailed loudly like a child. She didn¡¯t want me to go and I also didn¡¯t want to go but my hands were tied. She did inquire of the reason and I just cooked up a story that my sister got a job offer there.

    We had talked to Jane about it and fortunately she agreed to it. Bailey escorted me to the trainstation to buy two tickets and currently now I was heading back home after that tiresome activity. Our train was scheduled to leave by nine pm and it was seven pm. I just had an hour to prepare. I truly hoped Mabel would have finished packing by now so we could get the hell out of this city and away from the clutches of Leonardo.

    On getting to the door of my apartment, I found out it was unlocked. That was strange. Mabel never left the door unlocked. I pushed it open slightly and peered inside.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    My jaws dropped and my pupils dted on entering inside.

    My once cozy apartment looked so roughed and scattered.

    Pillows on the ground, chairs overturned, clothes lying around carelessly.

    What happened there?

    ¡°Mabel!¡±I called out as an unknown panic seized me.

    Fear and dread soured within me and my heart began palpitating.

    Did Leonardo take my sister?

    He didn¡¯t know of our ns and he gave us a one day ultimatum. The day was wasn¡¯t  even over so what happened?

    I quickly ran outside , tears pooling in my eyes.

    I had to call 911.

    Fast. My sister was missing.

    I tucked out my phone from my pants, about dailing 911 when a ck suv pulled up in front of me.

    A tall bald man stepped out, his cold eyes ring at me. I immedately recognised him from the club. He was the one called ¡°Bruno¡±

    I gulped and my heart sank to my stomach. I was suddenly doused in an ominous feeling.

    Something bad was definitely going to happen or it had already happen.

    ¡°Get in here¡±He barked.

    I felt unwillingly to walk inside.

    ¡°Why?¡±I asked attempting to muster up bravery and stopping the jitters from spreading through my body.

    His lips curled up to a taunting sneer.

    ¡°Then i guess you don¡¯t want to see your sister again¡±

    I became doe-eyed that instant.

    My sister! What did they do to her?

    ¡°What did you do to my sister?¡±I asked, my voice shaky as I fought to control my tears.

    ¡°Get inside and see for yourself¡±he ordered.

    Nervously, I shambled into the back seat of the car, the door mming behind me and locking.

    Tears began streaking down my cheeks as my heart pace increased.

    My mind was in disarray. I could only think of my sister. She was all I had. I just wished these monsters didn¡¯t harm her.

    I pressed myself firmly against the seat of the SUV, my heart racing in anticipation of seeing my sister.

    Worried lines drew over my forehead and I began sweating luminous beads even though the interior of the SUV was cold.

    We kept on driving till the car came to a sudden halt.

    Millions of knot tied themselves up in my stomach. Bruno roughly pulled open the car door and yanked me outside by the arm. His grip on my arm was so tight and strong, not even minding the fact that I was literally trembling.

    He led me to the door of a gloomy domed warehouse. It looked like those houses from horror movies with ck fainting paints, shattered windows and rusted walls, dustyered and shadowy.

    Bruno led me to the interior, revealing various armed goons, their dagger eyes ring at me and also Leonardo who just gazed at me, unfazed. Panic and fear totally imnted themselves within me and surged like rapid waves.

    ¡°Where is my sister!?¡±I cried out as Bruno tossed me inside, my body causing a painful thud as it hit to the ground.

    The awful scent of blood, dirt and death wreaked the atmosphere.

    The interior was poorly lit, only a faintly fluorescent bulb hung from the ceiling, swinging slowly and not doing justice to illuminating the room.

    Leonardo came towards me, crouching down by my side and slowly dragging my hair, making me face up, my terrified eyes locking with his cold, fiery ciers.

    ¡°You yed a very risky move dear Crystal¡± venomced in his tone.

    ¡°W-what did i do?¡± I stuttered trying to sound brave.

    His jaws clenched and he dragged my hair to a side making me wince and grip onto his hand instantly.

    ¡°You think you can escape me right Miss Price? You and your sister. You both think you can run away from me?¡±he growled before standing up.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t give me a choice. How do you expect me to sell myself to you? I am not amodity or a thing. I¡¯m a human being. Give me more time let me work and repay you your debt please¡±I pleaded admist the tears that began streaming down my cheeks.

    A sarcastic, dryughter rumbled from his lungs as he watched me plead and cry.

    ¡°Bring her in¡± I heard him matter and in no matter of time, I heard footsteps apanied by inaudible wailing.

    My heart pounded as I watched one of his goons drag my sister out from a nearby room.

    I became horror struck as I watched my sister, dragged out of a room, unded except for her panties. Her body littered with bruises, her hair dishevelled, her eyes swollen, her cheeks stained with dried blood and her nose oozing out trails of blood. She was barely conscious. She looked half dead.

    ¡°Mabel..¡±I coughed out as my breathing suddenly became clogged in my chest.

    ¡°Your sister will pay for your silly mistake¡± Leonardo grunted without even batting an eyelid at me.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t touch my sister please. I beg you¡± I pleaded, my voice bing hoarse and my lungs strained.

    Leonardo didn¡¯t even move an eyelid at me. He totally ignored my pleas and red at me.

    ¡°You¡± he suddenly said pointing at the goon that brought Mabel¡¯s injured frame out of the room.

    ¡°Have your way with her sister and kill her afterwards¡±hemanded, venomced in his tone.

    For a moment I couldn¡¯t breathe and my eyes widened in horror.

    Trepidation seized me and I quickly screamed out.

    I scurried over to him, my knees bending on their own ord. I sped my hands together as the tears flowed from my cheeks without restraint.

    ¡°I beg of you Leonardo. Please. Don¡¯t harm my sister. She is all I¡¯ve got. I¡¯ll sell myself to you I swear. I¡¯ll never disobey you or try to run away again. Please don¡¯t do this¡±I bemoaned, my voice drowning in my tears.

    ¡°I love seeing you helpless. This will serve as a lesson to you. Try this move next time and I¡¯ll kill both you and your sister¡± His baritone voice boomed, a predatorial smirk on his face.

    I sobbed and nodded my head at him.

    ¡°Bruno get Mabel her clothes and take her to the hospital. Arrange for their home to be tidied up and drop Mabel after she gets discharged¡±

    ¡°And as for you Crystal¡±he said turning to face me, the corners of his mouth moving up to a smile. ¡°You will be going home with me¡±

    The beast had won. He had gotten his way and there was nothing I could do about it.

 Chapter 6

    CRYSTAL

    I slumped my back against the leather seat of the SUV, eyes narrowing through the tinted ss of the otherwise ratherfortable car. Leonardo sat by my side and I could feel his eyes burying themselves into me.

    He didn¡¯t even give me a chance to say farewell to my sister. What manner of cruelty is this?

    I focused my attention on the moving cars  and people my eyes spotted as we drove on the busy road.

    How I wish I could be among those people walking freely outside. But I couldn¡¯t because this brute of a man had turned me into a meremodity to use pay off a debt.

    ¡°Now you know the consequence of defying me don¡¯t you?¡±He suddenly probed, cutting into my thoughts.

    I hissed within me and chose not to reply him. He suddenly grabbed my chin, forecfully whapped my face to gaze at his cold dark ocean eyes, as dark as the midnight.

    ¡°When I talk you answer me!¡±He growled with a sneer.

    ¡°Why should I?¡±I scowled back, daring to raise my voice at the beast.

    ¡°If you keep on disrespecting me, Crystal I¡¯ll punish you in the worst possible way you can ever imagine¡± He grimaced before letting go of my chin roughly.

    I brought my hand to caress my face whilst avoiding eye contact with him as he leaned in closer to me, a burning desire hooded in his eyes.

    His lips brushed my earlobe, a soft brush that got my toes curling up.

    I gulped feeling his hot breath fan my neck. He had this spicy scent of cinnamon radiating off him.

    ¡°ept this new life of yours and stop behaving like a feisty cat¡±he breathed against my ear giving me goosebumps before pulling out.

    I couldn¡¯t say a word after then. I felt restricted and ustrophobic. I decided to avert my gaze from his and focus it on the road. An eerie silence enveloped the atmosphere and to be honest, I liked it that way.

    Soon enough, the car came to a sudden halt in front of gigantic ck iron gates. As soon it halted, it began moving slowly inside what seemed like a mini garden.

    My anxious eyes peered through the ss, taking in the beauty of the surroundings.

    From the mini fountains scattered all around, oozing clear crystal water to the beautifulwn that covered the entire scenery and the ostentatious statues of lions carved and deposited around the surrounding.

    My eyes hungrily took them all in. Ruthless he was, but the surrounding of  house was beautiful. We kept on driving till a gigantic white shade came into view.

    It was his house. No not a house. His mansion.

    My eyes became doe-eyed and my jaws dropped. I stared open mouthed at his house till I heard him chuckle which got me to quickly mask my surprise and adopt a nonchnt and unconcerned expression.

    A chauffeur opened the doors of the SUV  and various men of equal muscrity including about two to three dozen of male and female workers lined up and bowed their heads as if Leonardo was some sort of royalty.

    He led the way as we approached the huge oak doors of his mansion.

    The interior was as beguiling as I imagined it.  Chandeliers were situated at every corner, illuminating the huge living room with beautiful patterned iridescent.

    The ceiling had an intricate marble design and by the looks of it, it must have cost a fortune.

    Various nt pots were dispersed at all concers giving off a wonderful odour frenzy feeling the entire room.

    Two huge staircases seperated the imperial living room, their rails outlined with gold

    The walls literally looked like they were dripping gold as the light from the various chandeliers struck them.

    ¡°Show her to her room¡±Leonardo ordered to the various workers that nked around us.

    A red haired maid stepped forward, a look of pity in her eyes as she essed my appearance. No doubt, I looked like an insane lunatic that fled a mental asylum.

    ¡°Follow me¡± she said, her tone barely above a whisper.

    She led me through the various halls of the mansion, her ck low heels clicking against the tiles. That was the only sound heard as we walked in an uneasy silence.

    She finally stopped in front of a huge ck coloured door and softly pushed open the door.

    It seemed Leonardo must have informed his workers of my arrival as the huge bedroom was already so neatly arranged.

    What first caught my eye was the beautifully carved four poster bed with white and gold patterned sheets, having a caramel canopy thereby providing a rectangr roof over the bed.

    Two long windows were situated at the far end, velvet curtains drapping over them.

    A beautiful Arabian designed rug stood at the centre. I instinctively walked towards it and stepped my barefeet on the silky soft rug. It felt so tender beneath my bare feet.

    The room felt chilly which made me rub my hands together for warmth. My gaze then caught two air conditioners situated at opposite corners of the room and a fluorescent bulb illuminating the room with a sunset orange glow.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°That¡¯s the closet¡±The maid announced, her index finger outstretched, pointing at a white door. It jolted me out of my reverie to facing the door. I didn¡¯t even notice the two doors by the right hand side of the room; one white and the other a frosty silver colour.

    I hastily walked over to the closet and truth be told, it was beautiful and huge. Inside it stood a sliding door wardrobe, it¡¯s door built from head to ceiling. Next to it were various shelves aligned with footwears which had a horizontal rectangr mirror opposite it.

    Where all these for me?

    I slid open the wardrobe and was met with  various exquisite styles of dresses.

    All these were literally for me?

    I closed it back and walked outside the closet, the maid still standing fixed on the spot.

    I walked to the frosty silver door and opened it, peering inside. It was a bathroom.  The walls were covered with ck marbles and the bathroom had a lot of walking space.

    My eyes observed a juzi sized hot tub attached to the wall and a shower not to far from it as the sweet scent ofvender hit my nostrils.

    The toilet was also good looking and a sink was built to the wall opposite the bathtub with a silver mirror above it. A small cupboard was situated next to the mirror and I opened it. It just had a toothbrush and a toothpaste.

    I felt so weirded out. He literally knew before hand that I would ept his sickening offer and nned my arrival.

    If this wasn¡¯t creepy then I don¡¯t know what is.

    I walked out of the bathroom feeling like a glorified prisoner, captured.

    ¡°I hope you love your room?¡±The maid asked nervously as she still stood fixed on the spot.

    I nodded my head at her and she gave me a soft smile.

    ¡°Freshen up Miss. Dinner will be ready soon¡±she added before giving me a courtesy bow and scurrying out of the room, closing the door behind her

    I sighed and slumped by the wooden edges of the bed, my hands running through my dirty blonde hair.

    I couldn¡¯t help but think of Mabel. How was she faring now?

    I miss her so much but I can¡¯t even go visit her. My thoughts drifted to Bailey, my ballet group and Chase, my crush.

    ¡°God¡±I said with a low groan.

    I wanted to weep but I couldn¡¯t. My eyelids felt weak and heavy from the multiple tears I shed.

    Only one question rang in my head.

    ¡°What would my life be now?¡±

 Chapter 7

    CRYSTAL

    Feet. They were approaching me.

    Immedately my eyes fluttered open as my ears twitched to the sound of feet approaching me. I was a light sleeper and the tiniest noise could disrupt my sleep.

    I didn¡¯t even realise I had fallen asleep, my body resting on the wooden edges of the bed. My gaze slowly lifted up and locked with the eyes of a different maid.

    I yawned drowsily and rubbed my eyes with the back of my palms.

    She cleared her throat at me and offered me a polite smile. ¡°Dinner is ready. Pleasee downstairs to the dinning room. Master wants to have dinner with you¡±she instructed.

    Master?

    My brows furrowed at her. Leonardo was just a cocky jerk.

    ¡°I¡¯m noting¡±I blurted out, standing up and lying on the soft mattress of the bed.

    She blinked severally as if trying to grasp what she heard. ¡°Huh? You are declining master¡¯s offer?¡±she muttered slowly.

    ¡°Yes. I don¡¯t want to eat especially not with him¡±I snapped back.

    ¡°Reconsider please. He would be angry¡±she interceeded.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care. I am not eating¡±I spat.

    She gulped nervously and nodded her head at me, retreating out of the room.

    I huffed and hissed at the thought of Leonardo.

    What was the worst he could do at this moment? He had taken everything from me. My freedom, my family, my life. I was merely a prisoner in his house.

    A glorified prisoner bounded in a cage.

    I won¡¯t go meet him for dinner.

    He is such a brute. First he takes me against my will and then wants to have dinner with me.

    Psychotic jerk.

    I  slowly closed my eyes back once more, attempting to sleep.

    These days I loved to sleep more because my dreams were far better than my reality.

    * * * * * *

    I was sure I hadn¡¯t closed my eyes for more than fifteen minutes when the door to my bedroom suddenly mmed open, the noise reverberate through the air.

    It immedately made me jerk my eyes open in a sudden fright.

    Standing by the door way, capturing my now uneasy stare with his taunting eyes brooding anger was Leonardo; the muscles in his jaw clenching and unclenching in anger.

    He walked towards me like a predator seeking to devour his prey; slow yet dangerous, calm yet burning with anger.

    ¡°How dare you?¡±He growled, rage dancing in his eyes.

    I stared at him, tongue tied. The sudden bravery I had when I rejected his offer to join him in the dinning table had disappeared.

    ¡°Answer me!¡±Hemanded in his baritone voice.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to eat with you!¡±I yelled back, a tiny me of the bravery sparking within me. A voice in my head told me not to talk but I was willing to take the risk and raise my voice at the beast.

    ¡°What?¡±He asked somewhat amused by my tone of voice.

    ¡°You heard me right!¡±I snapped back, my eyebrows pulling together.

    ¡°Keep your damn food. What more do you want from me? You¡¯ve taken practically everything from me! Everything! Leave me to be by myself Leonardo!¡±I added, daring to raise my voice.

    He just stood unfazed and tucked his hands in his pocket.

    His lips tightened and curled inwards.

    ¡°Leonardo I hate you so much.

    Do your fucking worst. Kill me! I don¡¯t want to eat with you¡±

    I watched him run a hand through his long hair,  ruffling it and having the locks dangle dangerously over his shoulders.

    ¡°You will learn to respect me Crystal¡±he abruptly stated with a menacing re.

    Before I could reply, he suddenly leaned in closer and gripped onto my legs dragging me fiercely towards the edge of the bed.

    ¡°Leonardo!¡±I screamed as panic soured like waves within me.

    I tried releasing my legs from his grip but it was futile. He tossed me out of the bed to the ground, nostrils ring and jaws tensed.

    ¡°Ouch!¡±I whimpered as I fell with a loud thump to the ground.

    I stared with fear in my eyes as Leonardo progressed towards me, giving me a slithering look.

    ¡°Leonardo please stop¡±I cried out in apprehension.

    He immedately lunched for me, dragging me by the arms outside the room. My skin bruised against the floor as I wailed in absolute terror and fright.

    ¡°What are you doing Leonardo?¡±I asked in between tears with an unknown trepidation seizing my entire being.

    ¡°Teaching you little brat a lesson¡±He scoffed back at me as he dragged me through the halls of the mansion.

    I thrashed about, wailed and pleaded, trying to free my hands from his iron grip but it was a futile attempt. Instead his grip became more tighter, it felt like he could pierce through my skin. His grip was searing hot.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Leonardo please¡±I pleaded, my voice hoarse and resounding within the walls of the mansion. He kept on dragging me to God knows where, my skin getting ck-and-blue marks.

    Suddenly I heard an elderly shrill pierce through, drowning my own pleas.

    Grey hairs tied to a bun came rushing towards us. An elderly brown eyes held Leonardo¡¯s gaze softly.

    Who was she?

    This woman made Leonardo stop in his tracks.

    ¡°Child¡±she began hesistantly.

    ¡°Why are you doing this to the poor girl?¡±

    ¡°Stai lontano da questo- stay away from this¡±He scoffed back almost as if he was trying to control his tone towards the elderlydy.

    I had no idea what he said. That seemed Italian.

    She gave him a mild smile and caressed his cheeks. ¡°Leave the poor girl please¡±

    ¡°Lei ¨¨ una mone- she is a brat¡±he grimaced, his bloodshot gaze locking with my terrified eyes, scaring the wits out of me.

    The woman attempted to talk again but he shook his head at her. ¡°Don¡¯t vouch for her Maya. She needs to be taught a lesson¡±

    As soon as he uttered his statement, he began dragging me again through the hallways, my skin getting cuts and bruises.

    I screamed once again, trying to wiggle myself out of his grip but he dragged me like I weighed no less than an A4 paper.

    I could hear the elderly woman begging on my behalf as he dragged me away.

    We got in front of a grey door and he pushed it open with his legs, pushing me inside and closing the door shut.

    My skin at this moment was covered with bruises and cuts. I felt so numb and my body ached.

    Tears stained my cheeks and I sniffed my nose, waiting for his next move.

    What would he do to me?

    This room was basically empty apart from a mattress, a wooden table that had two spherical holes of equal sizes and an angry red bulb illuminating the entire room giving off a bloody look.

    I was once again doused in fear and trepidation as my eyes roved around.

    ¡°Get yourself naked!¡±Leonardo¡¯s voice boomed.

 Chapter 8

    CRYSTAL

    I stared at him, shock, confusion, bewilderment, any word that could describe how totally bbergasted I was at his request.

    I remembered back in the club he got me to get naked for him. And now he is repeating the same thing. My eyes quickly took a cursory nce round the entire room. We were alone just like before but this time were were in a moreprising situation.

    He definitely wouldn¡¯t make me dance naked again would he?

    Or he would¡­. I immedately shook my head trying to get rid of the thoughts.

    ¡°Are you deaf!?¡±He yelled, his veins throbbing.

    I gulped and shook, fear trailing down my spine sending an awful panic coursing through my body.

    ¡°Get naked else I¡¯ll make sure I get you naked myself!¡±

    I cried watching him boil in fury and his raised eye brows hinting anger raging within him.

    Was he this angry because I rejected dinner? Just because of that? Heaven knows what this beast wants to do with me.

    I painstakingly pulled off my clothes, my skinpletely bare and naked in front of him. I suddenly felt extremely chilly. The air in the room suddenly felt too tight for me to breathe in.

    I made an attempt to cover my breasts with my hands but he yanked them off fiercely.

    ¡°On your knees now! Get on your fucking knees and put your two hands in those holes¡±He said authoritatively.

    I shuddered at his vile tone. This man was cold. He was a beast. Who would do this to a woman?

    I am a human being too.

    ¡°Now!¡±He growled, rage shing in his eyes for me.

    I slowly did as he told and put my two hands in each hole carved in the table.

    I saw him open the only cupboard in the room and I let out quick gasps for breath on seeing what he brought out.

    A handcuff.

    What?!

    ¡°Leo.. Leo.. what.. are.. what are¡±I stuttered, unable to bring out the words from my mouth.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear any thing from your pretty mouth¡±He snapped back.

    He quickly came over to me. Crouching down close to me, he handcuffed my hands together.

    Trepidation seized me.

    With terrified eyes, I watched him unbuckle his belt.

    ¡°Leonardo what are you doing!?¡±I heard myself screaming.

    He ignored my question and wrapped the belt around his hand.

    My mind instantly went wild. Thoughts of what he could do shrouded my mind.

    Would he rape me?

    Oh God. I crumbled into tears immediately. All because I rejected his offer to have dinner with him?

    This man was a psychopath.

    I wasn¡¯t even given time to ponder over what he was nning on doing to me when I felt a cold whip on my back.

    I gasped and my eyes widened.

    ¡°LEONARDO!¡±I screamed loudly. The tears came out like flood waters.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    I quivered, quaked, shuddered and pleaded for Leonardo to stop but he continued with his merciless beating.

    He flogged me like I was a criminal that hadmitted a gruesome murder.

    Each stroke of his belt sent a sharp pain down my back, the cold buckle of his belt scratching and bruising my skin at impact.

    ¡°Leo.. please¡±I begged with my tone faltering, my pleas drowning in my tears.

    My throat was hoarse and dry as a result of the multiple pleading. I could barely shout again but Leonardo continued with his ruthless punishment.

    He flogged me with no atom of remorse.

    I felt liquid trailing down back. It was blood.

    My body shivered and I could feel my vision slowly bing dim. Leonardo couldn¡¯t hear my pleas as he was too engrossed in melting out his punishment on me and neither could I plead again.

    I felt myself falling into an abyss of darkness and suddenly everything went ck.

    * * * * * * *

    ¡°ThankGod you are awake!¡±Maya eximed on noticing Crystal fluttering her eyes open.

    It took a while for her vision to adjust as she squinted her gaze before fully opening her eyes.

    Her eyes scrutinised the entire room she was in and she realised it was her room.

    The brilliant rays of the sunlight shone through the curtains of the room, feeling the room with warmth and light.

    How long had she been sleeping?

    Her eyes darted to her body. She was on clothes. Who wore her back her clothes? Was it the beast in a human form?

    Could it be Leonardo? And who carried her to her room?

    Her head ached and she ced a hand on It, caressing her temples.

    ¡°Leonardo brought you in to your roomst night dear. How are you my child?¡± Maya¡¯s soft voice soothed her as if reading her thoughts.

    ¡°Oh¡± was what crystal could only say. Her body ached with each move she took to adjust herself on the bed, especially her back. It suffered the most from Leonardo¡¯s beating.

    ¡°Freshen up ok. I prepared a hot bath for you in the bathtub. Check the wardrobe and pick any dress of your choice¡± Maya softly said to her.

    Crystal nodded and shed her a faint smile. She wasn¡¯t truly in the mood for conversations but she did notice that Maya spoke so kindly to her. It reminded her ofte mother.

    Maya blew her a kiss and quickly left the room, giving Crystal the privacy she needed.

    Crystal painstakingly stood up from the bed. Her legs felt wobbly on the ground and too heavy to walk her.

    The door then suddenly open, a maid entering.

    ¡°Leonardo wants you to have breakfast with him¡± she announced.

    CRYSTAL

    I shuddered and became doe-eyed immediately the maid said Leonardo would want to have breakfast with me.

    Again with this? My mind instantly shed back to yesterday when he littered me with strokes for refusing to join him for dinner.

    I gulped and my hands felt sweaty in an instant.

    I hate this man. Oh good Lord!

    I am being forced to live with a beast. My eyes skimmed down the bruises deposited all over my body.

    My body especially my wrists had taken an awful shade of red. I felt like puking.

    He beat me up and requests me to have dinner with him. Who does this?

    This man must truly be a serial killer.

    ¡°Um miss are youing?¡±The young maid probed into my thoughts, snapping me out of it.

    I had no choice after all. I truly can¡¯t bear another round ofshes.

    I nervously gulped and nodded my head.

    That was enough confirmation from her. She gave me a warm smile and left the room.

    A sorry look washed upon my face.

    I felt like a helpless animal inside a cage.

    When will this torture end?

    * * * * * *

    He sat down on one of the dinning chairs, taking the fork stuffed with chicken to his lips, he took a bite and slowly ate it, as if taking pity on the animal that had been killed to prepare this meal.

    I loathed this man. I hated him with every fibre in me. Nobody had made me hate them the way Leonardo did. He was cruel, callous, unkind, menacing and audaciously wicked, not caring who he hurt as long as he got his way.

    Why the fuck did my dad take a loan from him!?

    I didn¡¯t know who to hate more; my father that brought me into this mess or Leonardo my captor.

    His head titled towards the staircase and his eyes had a glint in them the minute he saw me. He stared at me intensely as I made my way towards the dinning section. Something about the way he stared at me got me frightened.

    His stare never filtered for a nano second.

    I suddenly became self conscious of my steps under his zing stare.

    ¡°Good morning miss Crystal¡±Leonardo greeted. ¡°I trust you had a good night rest¡±he added slowly as if devouring the words in his mouth before letting them roll out of his tongue.

    What!? This man was unbelievable. How would he ask me that sort of question when he made my night hell.

    ¡°My night was fine¡± I replied unfazed by his words. I knew he wanted to see me crumble but I won¡¯t let him.

    A dangerous smirk drew by the corners of his lips as his eyes assessed my bruised wrists. I had made sure to put on a gown that would cover my entire body, thereby hiding the inhumane marks he gave me.

    It was a shame it couldn¡¯t cover my wrists as this monster had his eyes on my now red wrists.

    ¡°Now you know the punishment for disobeying my orders don¡¯t you?¡± He taunted.

    I gave a low hiss and remained silent.

    ¡°Answer me!¡±He suddenly yelled which got me startled. The familiar terror I had feltst night began climbing within me.

    ¡°I hate you¡±I heard myself cry out before I could even stop my voice.

    My statement to him didn¡¯t go unnoticed. A malicious smile spread across his face.

    He stood up and strolled to my side. Crouching down to my ear, he tucked some strands of my hair behind my ears and brought his lips to my ear.

    I felt his lips brush against my earlobe, a soft brush that suddenly made my toes curl. His breath lingered on my neck before he finally whispered, ¡°I own you Crystal. The sooner you get to ept that the better for you. I¡¯ll make sure you submit yourself to me, be it the hard way or the easy way. And I¡¯ll break this ego of yours. I promise you¡±

 Chapter 9

    CRYSTAL

    After that breakfast I had with Leonardo, I hadn¡¯t set my eyes again on him for up to a week. It seemed like he just vanished into thin air.

    I had gone upstairs after having breakfast with him and sat by myself in the my bedroom¨C or should I call it a prison cage. I didn¡¯te out again until evening. I was truly growing ustomed to just enjoying my ownpany.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    I felt free whenever I was with myself, away from the clutches of Leonardo and his callous attitude.

    The broad grin on my face when Maya had told me Leonardo had to catch a flight to Australia was so wide that it could have torn my lips apart.

    I felt so happy. I felt so free. The beast was no more around me. Even if it was just for a short period of time, I still felt extremely happy and I had this sudden freedom to do whatever I want.

    I actually thought of running away but I realised the brute actually increased the security measures inside and outside the doors of his mansion.

    He didn¡¯t want me to escape but at the same time he treated me like a piece of rag.

    For him beating me up that day all because I didn¡¯t want to join him for dinner was the total height of it all.

    I couldn¡¯t stand this man neither did I even want to breathe the same air with him. He was nothing but a beast and a wicked human.

    I truly hated Leonardo and I wished for my hatred never to falter or wane over theing days.

    His sudden departure out of the house brought me immeasurable pleasure and tranquilty. Even though the security measures had been trippled, I still felt so free for once in so many days.

    I grew more closer to Maya and even helped her out in the kitchen.

    I had started memorizing the names of most of the maids and also became close to them. One thing I found truly strange and amusing was their loyalty to Leonardo.

    They all spoke so highly of him, so eloquently and so heroic as if Leonardo was some sort of phnthropist.

    Maya praised him alot and I got to find out that she actually raised him following the death of his mother when he was just a young boy. She was his godmother. I suddenly found myself feeling sorry for him but then I remembered all what he did to me and how he forcefully made me sell myself to him.

    Leonardo was not a human. He was incapable of feeling human emotions. He was a beast in the body of a human.

    I sincerely wished Leonardo would nevere back here but today was the day he would be arriving. I was submerged back into that feeling of dread, gloom and anxiety once again.

    I never knew how afraid I had be of him until today. Just the very mention of his arrival by Maya sent cold shivers down my spine.

    I repeatedly nced at the wall clock in my bedroom. Watching the hour hand and the minute hand tick continuously in anxiety and fear was killing me.

    He was scheduled to arrive around eleven and now it was 8:30.

    I was so doused in fear that I almost began choking on the air.

    The air in the room suddenly felt too tight for me to breathe in.

    Would I leave in this sort of fear all my life? Would I just be scared by the mere mention of Leonardo¡¯s name like this forever?

    Oh God.

    There was a slow knock on the door and I jerked up on my bed immedately. It got me startled and also shivering in fear.

    ¡°C-ce in¡±I stammered.

    Maya walked inside with a smile on her face. A smile¨Cthat was one thing never missing from her face.

    She was always beaming with smiles. She was such a cheerful elderlydy.

    ¡°How are you dear?¡±

    ¡°I am fine Maya what about you? Do you need any thing?¡±I asked calmly.

    She shook her head at me and softlyughed. ¡°Leonardo is back. He brought back gifts for you downstairs and is requesting you see  them. They are downstairs¡±

    I gulped and my breathing got hitched. I slowly nodded my head and forced a smile on my lips. ¡°Yes Maya. I¡¯ll be right there¡±

    She smiled back and closed the door, leaving me to my fate.

    My eyes quickly darted to the clock on the wall. It wasn¡¯t even eleven yet. He was scheduled to arrive by eleven so why did hee so early?

    God. I thought I would get atleast two hours of peace and freedom before his arrival but damn it. The brute just had to show up early.

    I got off my bed with wobbly feets and dragged my pale self outside my room.

    I felt like a prisoner once more. A glorified prisoner living in a castle.

    I briskly walked downstairs, eyes roving around for any trace of Leonardo. Fortunately for me he was out of sight.

    Out of sight means out of mind but reverse was the case for me.

    The more I didn¡¯t see him, the more frightening thoughts of him lurked around my mind, plunging me into a bottomless pit of dread and captivity.

    Once I reached downstairs, my orbs  trailed to a huge pile of giftbags lying in the middle of the imperial living room.

    I walked over to it, doe-eyed and jaws ajar.

    Did he really buy me all these gifts?

    There were various things ranging from designer dresses to shoes to nes and perfumes. Expensive handbags and different makeup sets were all littered around.

    I¡¯m sure he picked all these from his travel around Australia.

    This man was so mysterious. He beats me up, forces me to eat with him, treats me like a property and then buys gifts for me.

    What exactly was in Leonardo¡¯s mind at times? What was he thinking? That was truly something I would never find out.

    My eyes and hands rummaged through the expensive piles of gift. I didn¡¯t know if I should feel happy or scared by his sudden disy of kindness towards me.

    ¡°You like them right?¡±Irina, one of the maids I had be friends with cheekily asked me.

    I could only nod my head. The gifts were very beautiful and expensive and I honestly didn¡¯t know if I should be happy about them or not.

    I already had enough clothes and he added more and also spiced it up with other essories.

    It felt so ironical to me. His gifts were portraying him as a kind person but the opposite was the case.

    Leonardo was nothing close to kindness and he would never be such in my eyes. I would always loathe him and despise him for everything he did to me.

    No matter how many gifts he got me he would never be a saint to me.

    ¡°Crystal¡±Irina called out apanied by urgent tappings on my shoulder.

    I quickly nced at her.

    ¡°What were you thinking? I¡¯ve been talking to you¡±she exined.

    I never realised I zoned her out.

    ¡°Um I¡¯m so sorry¡±I apologised as I blinked severally whilst massaging my temples.

    ¡°Are you good? I wanted to tell you that master wants to see you in his chambers¡±

    The bomb was dropped. My breathing got clogged in my throat and my eyes widened in apprehension.

    ¡°Are you¡­ sure?¡±I hesistantly asked, hoping she would say it was just a trick but deep down I knew it wasn¡¯t possible.

    She nodded her head at me. ¡°Is something wrong? You seemed tensed¡±she asked with curious eyes.

    I put up a stic smile and shook my head. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll be going to meet Leonardo¡±

    She gave me a satisfied nod and I made my way upstairs at once.

    I had never been in Leonardo¡¯s private room before. I had no business in there but today he wanted me toe there.

    What would he do to me?

    Force his bloody self on me? I definitely won¡¯t go down without a fight.

    I approached his door and once again, apprehension and agitation took control over me.

    I knocked on the huge ck doors with shaky hands before pushing it open gently.

    The room was dim but the sunsetmp provided a measurable amount of light to it, feeling the room with its soft rays.

    It was just like I imagined it. ck marble decorating the walls of his room, an ostentatious kingsized bed ced in the middle, scarlet coloured duvets and ck sheets decorating it.  There were two grey doors by the right, probably leading to his closet and bathroom.

    I noticed various tall book shelves aligned perfectly but the darkness forbade me from seeing more.

    By the far end of the room stood three long windows drapped in gold coloured curtains. The eager wind blew the curtains vigorously as they danced to its rhythm providing little view of the luminous moon whose rays shone through the foggy clouds.

    There was a vanity table at the centre and various nt pots were spotted around each corner of his room, feeling the room with their beautiful flowery scent.

    Opposite the fire ce sat Leonardo in chair, his gaze staring into the low mes, the mes giving off an orange glow around the room. Only the sound of the wood cackling could be heard in the room, everywhere was dead silent.

    I took few mortified steps forward and heard Leonardo sigh.

    ¡°You called for me¡±I spoke up, my voice barely above a whisper, trying to stop the jitters from spreading across my body.

    There was a brief silence after I spoke up. The silence was eating me up. There was usually a sign before a storm but my life was filled with storms already.

    He stood up and slowly faced me. Dangerously hot and yet sinful, his blue orbs peered into my frightened eyes.

    He took a few steps forward as I instantly retreated backwards.

    He noticed it and then stopped.

    ¡°Did you like my gifts?¡±He asked, his voice raspy, tucking his hands into his pockets.

    ¡°Why did you get them? I didn¡¯t ask you for them¡±I bodly stated with an unknown temerity coursing through me.

    I deserved to know the reason.

    He chuckled darkly and took some steps forward. The more he came towards me, the more I moved back until I had hit my back against the door of his room.

    I was totally caged. He gave me a mischievous smirk and ced his two hands by the door on both sides of my body, totally restricting my movement and locking me in.

    ¡°You are too curious Crystal. Curiosity kills the cat¡±He whispered huskily as he leaned down towards me. He had this spicy sweet scent of cinnamon radiating off him. It was like a drug intoxicating and hitting me strong.

    ¡°My obsession¡±I heard him breathe out. His head descended and met with my neck.

    My breathing got hitched and I gulped.

    What was he doing?

    ¡°W-what?¡±I nervously asked with my tone shaky.

    ¡°You are my obsession¡±he whispered onto my neck, his hot breath lingering on it. His hands slowly moved from the door and onto my waist, griping me and pulling me into himself.

    ¡°You are mine Crystal. Just mine¡±

 Chapter 10

    CRYSTAL

    I wasn¡¯t even given a second to register what Leonardo said when I suddenly felt something warm pressed against my neck.

    Oh shit!

    That was Leonardo¡¯s lips.

    I instinctively tried taking his hands of my waist but he tightened his hold making me whimper.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    He trailed wet kissess around my neck, sucking and stroking on it with his tongue.

    I felt my toes curl up and a strange heat began trailing up my legs, threatening to take control of my entire body.

    He trailed his kisses to my earlobe, softly biting and nibbling on it.

    I subconsciously let out a soft, low moan which I presumed got him more aroused as his hold on my waist tightened.

    ¡°So fucking soft¡±he groaned against my ear before sweeping my neck with his tongue once more.

    I tried so hard to stifle my moan and shut my eyes tight as my breathing became heavy.

    ¡°Leo.. please¡­. stop¡±I moaned airily.

    ¡°Your body wants it¡±came his husky reply. He nted kisses down to my throat, sucking on it causing me to moan out. He was right. My body was responding to it and it irked me knowing the powerful effect his touch had on me.

    I could feel him hardened. His huge erection was firmly pressed against my thighs causing a butterfly havoc in me. His one hand went to my breast, softly kneading my ripe mound through my shirt whilst the other tugged me tighter towards him, hauling me against his chest.

    ¡°Leo please¡­¡±I writhed underneath him. I tried moving my hands towards his chest in a bid to stop him but he immedately grabbed my hands and ced them above my tossing head.

    ¡°You are mine kitten¡±He gruffed not looking up at me. His wet lips trailed around my neck and throat, biting me softly, sucking and marking me on all sides. I moaned out which earned me a low guttural groan from him.

    He was loosing control and I was also loosing my senses as a ravenous heat spread throughout my body. I needed to stop this.

    I twisted my wrists, trying to break free from his dangerous hold but it only became tighter as I writhed underneath his towering frame.

    ¡°Leonardo¡­. you are hurting me¡±I breathed out hesistantly but it didn¡¯t matter to him.

    He sucked on my neck, teeth nibbling on it and stroking me with his tongue like he didn¡¯t even hear me, leaving my mind in a foggy trance like maze.

    He was evoking sensations in me that I didn¡¯t want.

    ¡°Let me have you kitten¡±he said, his tone barely above a whisper.

    What?

    Did he mean sex?

    It was as if the veil had been removed from my eyes. Various knots got themselves tied up in my stomach and my heart sank.

    ¡°You can never have me¡±I heard myself cry out.     At once he stopped and slowly let go of my wrists.

    ¡°What did you say?¡±He raspily asked with his lips pulling up to a smirk.

    ¡°I said.. you will never have me¡±I replied hesitantly.

    He let out a dark chuckle and bit his bottom lip. ¡°I love seeing you feisty. It makes me more eager to break you and have you¡±

    I became doe-eyed and shot him a frosty re as his own cold blue ciers darkened inadvertently causing me to shiver. It was said that the hottest fire burns blue.

    ¡°Get out¡±hemanded not batting an eyelid at me. I gulped and stared mouth opened at him.

    ¡°W-what?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me repeat myself¡±he grimaced.

    I quickly scurried myself out of his presence, not wanting to even look back.

    I walked swiftly to my room, shutting the door behind me once I entered.

    I slumped on the bed, lying face up with a deep sigh escaping my lips.

    My hands subconsciously walked to the marks he gave me on my neck.

    I shivered. This man evoked various deadly sensations in me. I was already feeling a wet pool in my panties.

    I shook my head trying to remove the mundane thoughts.

    I¡¯ll never let him have me.

    * * * * * * * * * * * *

    I stared at my reflection in the mirror. The hickeys Leonardo gave me were still very much visible. I grabbed a scarf from the drawer and wrapped it around my neck.

    The warm shower I just had did no justice in soothing the wreck that had be my nerves.

    This man was leaving his prints on every part of my body. He had flogged hell out of my body giving me scars now he was marking me on my neck.

    What was wrong with him?

    It got me sick to the stomach knowing how my body responded to it. I felt so dirty.

    I wish I could erase the marks off my body but I couldn¡¯t.

    My stomach growled. I was hungry.

    I didn¡¯t eat dinner wellst night after learning about Leonardo¡¯s arrival back to the mansion.

    My appetite vanished and was reced with an immeasurable tension.

    Now the mysterious appetite had settled itself in me again.

    I ponderously made my way downstairs.

    My eyes trailed the magnificent hallways as I came downstairs.

    I spotted Leonardo on the dinning table, sitting at the far end like some sort of king.

    A maid was serving him food. He waved his hands at her, motioning for her to stop without even ncing at her. She shyly nodded and left him.

    He had his unwavering gaze at me as I slowly approached the dinning section. My breathing seized watching his blue orbs peered into me and a sudden wildfire took control of my body.

    Would this now be a ritual? Both of us having dinner and breakfast together? Always?

    God.

    My steps became wobbly and I quaked.

    ¡°Sit¡±he authoritatively stated once I was close enough.

    I did so by pulling out a chair and sitting down, the mouth watering aromaing from the various cuisines on the dinning table feeling my senses.

    My stomach growled and grumbled once more. I didn¡¯t need to be told. I at once began stuffing my mouth with food immedately.

    I was so damn hungry.

    Leonardo still had his gaze on me. He hadn¡¯t even touched his food yet. I could spot him with a side eye, watching me like a predator.

    I focused my entire attention on the food I was eating, trying to distract myself from focusing on his gaze.

    ¡°Kitten is really hungry isn¡¯t she?¡±He asked lowly with a smile.

    I didn¡¯t respond but kept on eating. It was better if I focused on the food and my insatiable hunger at the moment.

    Once I had eaten to my fill, I pushed away the te. Luckily for me, we had no discussion thoughout. I kept on eating without even ncing at him.

    But his eyes seemed to be touching me. They roved all around my body, scrutinizing me.

    Even though I was modestly covered, I felt so naked with his lustful stares on me.

    I hate this life. I hate what he turned my life into and I missed my sister so much.

    My sister. It felt like it had been forever since Ist saw Mabel. I wondered how she was faring.

    Was she sick? Was she healthy? Was she overwhelmed with work stress and also thinking of me?

    I needed to see her once again. But how? I slowly nced to look at Leonardo who still had his unwavering gaze at me.

    Shit. This man was creepy.

    ¡°Um Leonardo¡±I nervously called out.

    He tilted his head at me, raising a brow.

    ¡°I miss my¡­. um sister¡±

    Wow. I didn¡¯t think I could let it out that easily. My heart thumped. He didn¡¯t say anything as an unsettling silence enveloped us.

    ¡°So?¡±came his abrupt reply breaking the silence.

    I interlocked my fingers together nervously and my toes tightly curled up.

    ¡°I¡­ um..¡±I began trying to bring out the words from my mouth.

    ¡°I want to see her¡±I requested in one breath, shutting my eyes tight.

    He let out a breathyugh which made me fly my eyes open.

    ¡°You miss your sister gatina? You want to see her¡±He asked again with his tongue in cheek.

    I was doused in gloom and nodded my head.

    A sly grin spread across his lips and he chuckled.

    ¡°Then you have to earn it¡±

    ¡°Excuse me. What?¡±I asked confused with a shaky exhale.

    He shrugged his shoulders and stood up from the dinning chair,ing over to me. My eyes walked along with his steps as my heart threatened to break out of its rib cages.

    ¡°Stand up¡±hemanded.

    I nervously stood up and he held my hand roughly and tightly. His hold was like iron, threatening to break my fragile wrists.

    He began leading me upstairs.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±I mumbled out.

    ¡°I¡¯m giving you the chance to earn what you want¡±came his gruff reply.

    His steps were swift and unyielding. I truly had a hard time keeping up with him if not for the fact that he held on to my hands as he led me to an unknown destination.

    We then came infront of his room door and he pushed it open roughly. I gulped down my nervousness and apprehension.

    Why are we back in here?

    He closed the door the moment we entered and let go of my wrist.

    Memories of what took ce here yesterday came rushing into my mind.

    I clenched on to my dress tight as he stared at me. I was feeling so nervous. Darkness settled itself in his room, even though it was clearly day.

    The curtains were pulled together and the air inside was chilly.

    His tall frame stood out in the dark, his cold blue eyes glimmering giving him a sinful look. His jaws were so sharp and clenched like it could cut through anything.

    ¡°If you want to meet your sister you have to earn it¡± he spoke so gravelly, sending a cold shiver down my spine.

    ¡°H-h-how?¡±

    He came closer and rubbed my cheeks ever so softly. ¡°Let me fuck your mouth¡±he whispered entrancingly.

    I let out quick gasps of breath and tears pooled in my eyes.  I held on to my dress so tightly, my knucles began turning white.

    I missed my sister so badly but what he was asking from me got me feeling nauseous.

    ¡°You will do it¡±He bodly stated. His confidence was so appalling.

    What sort of life was this?

    ¡°Undress¡±

    That one word was spoken so low, it shook the air around us.

    My hands finally let go of my dress, the area I had held cramped and squeezed. I unzipped my dress, letting the fabric slip down from my slender shoulders and slowly to the ground. He watched every move I made, hungrily.

    I was doused in fear.

    His gaze lingered on my now almost nude body. I was just on my panties and bra and I knew he enjoyed the clear view he was having of my body.

    It noticed the huge bulge in his pants and gulped harder.

    ¡°Get on your knees kitten¡±he said, his voice hoarse and sultry.

    I felt tears pool in my eyes as I sunked my knees between his legs.

    ¡°You will submit yourself to me whether you like it or you don¡¯t¡±

 Chapter 11

    Crystal petite finger walked to Leonardo¡¯s zipper. Her fingers fidgeted with it till she finally grabbed hold of it, unzipping it.

    Her trembling fingers undid his belts as he watched her. He was already fully hard and erect. His huge erection was visibly pressing against his boxers, wanting to be let out.

    ¡°Why are you trembling kitten? Is this your first time?¡± Leonardo asked as hebed her hair with his hands.

    Crystal swallowed her frightful state and nodded her head, pushing back the waves of emotions she was experiencing.

    Heughed and took a fistful of her hair in his hands, twisting and twirling it softly.

    ¡°You are so innocent¡­¡±His voice trailed off with a groan as her frail fingers brought out his huge manhood, holding on to it.

    It was so big. She wondered if it would fit into her mouth.

    ¡°Suck¡±hemanded.

    Crystal brought his dick to her lips, the thick cap pushing past against her lips and into her mouth. His grip on her hair tightened and he began guiding her head into the movement.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make the mistake of biting me¡±he balefully threatened.

    Crystal wished she had the guts to do it but she didn¡¯t want to incure Leonardo¡¯s wrath again. She couldn¡¯t stand getting another set of bruises littered all over her skin.

    His huge tip and erection filled her entire mouth as she kept on sucking on it. With a sharp thrust of his hips, Leonardo pushed it in more deeper into her mouth almost making her gag.

    Crystal flinched and her jaws ached. He began going rough, precise and sharp not caring the pain she was going through. His grip on her hair tightened with a low grumble rumbling out of his chest.

    His head flopped back in pleasure, low groans escaping his parted lips.

    ¡°Fuck.. Crystal¡­ so fucking warm¡± he groaned out with each swift thrust of his hips, making his dick intrude more deeper into her aching mouth.

    He didn¡¯t give her any breaks or time to breathe. He was pushing in and out of her mouth so roughly and so swiftly. He was reaching his climax and Crystal felt her throat burning.

    A lone tear escaped her eyelids as he kept on thrusting himself into her mouth. His rugged breathing became low groans feeling the entire room with his hold on her hair so tight it felt like the hairs could fall out from her scalp.

    Then she instantly felt him stiffen and a hot liquid trailed down her throat without any resist.

    Crystal let go of his dick as he pulled out of her mouth. She crumbled down beneath his feet, her chest heaving repeatedly trying to catch her breath.

    ¡°Fuck. Your mouth was so good¡± Leonardo praised with heavy breathing and a sly smirk etching by the corners of his lips.

    He hade thoroughly undone underneath her touch when she was pleasing him. Now he was back to the cold, heartless mafia leader.

    ¡°You¡¯ve earned your visit to your sister¡±he simply stated as he zipped back his pants.

    Was this what her life would be subjected into? Pleasing him before he grants her request like some sort of ve?

    Fear settled into her features and her face morphed into a frown as she thought of what her life had be. Realisation dawned on her after she deciphered she would always have to beg him like this for anything.

    ¡°Get ready. We will be leaving in an hour¡±he added, noticing her tensed state.

    ¡°We? What did he mean by we?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by we?¡± Crystal asked as confusion seethed into her.

    ¡°You really think I would let you go see your sister alone so you could escape? Not a chance sweetheart. I aming with you. Now get out before I change my mind¡±     This man was tossing her to and fro like she was some sort of toy he used only when he wanted. Crystal felt her blood boil. He was treating her like an object. Ofcourse she didn¡¯t expect less from a cruel monster like him.

    She quickly averted her gaze from him and scurried out of the room.

    * * * * * * * *

    She peered through the tinted sses of the moving SUV, eyes watching the highway and the speedy vehicles passing her by.

    It seemed like it had been ages and centuries since she came out. Leonardo¡¯s mansion was a prison to her, restricting her from the world outside and caging her within its treacherous holds. It felt like a dark cloud had cleared from her fate the minute the car¡¯s engine geared up.

    It was just only her and Leonardo in the car. He drove whilst she sat next to him.

    Silence was in the air but she feltfortable with it. She felt happy that he didn¡¯t talk to her and she wanted it that way.

    Suddenly Leonardo pulled over to a huge boutique. Crystal nced at him, wondering why he was stopping.

    Her apartment was still very far away.

    Her eyes surveyed the environment. No doubts the ce seemed so ssy and prestigious.

    ¡°Leonardo why are you stopping?¡±

    He sighed and unlocked the car doors with a push of a button.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get some things for your sister shall we?¡± He asked which seemed more like a request as he had alreadye down from the car.

    Crystal hurriedly followed him. His sudden attitude seemed so genuine, one could actually mistake it for kindness but she knew better than to think of Leonardo bing soft. He was a man of sheer control and absolute power. He was incapable of having genuine care. The only thing he knew best was inflicting pains on others.

    ¡°Hurry up¡±Leonardo¡¯s voice boomed as they both made their way towards the entrance of the boutique.

    Crystals jaw dropped. The interior of the boutique literally had riches dripping out of it. The clothes here were so expensive she knew she would never be able to afford them.

    An aura of authority filled the air as her eyes observed the various individuals purchasing their wears.

    The bountiful fragrance of different perfume hit her nostrils creating a wonderful odour frenzy.

    A woman approached them both and gave Leonardo a sultry look.

    ¡°Wee back Leo. What would you like to purchase?¡± She asked fluttering her longshes at him and partially ignoring Crystal¡¯s presence.

    Crystal felt annoyed by her attitude but controlled herself.

    ¡°I came with her. Give her anything she wants. I¡¯ll pay¡± Leonardo instructed not even minding her advances towards him.

    She faced Crystal and forced a facade smile which Crystal knew too well was fake.

    ¡°Right this way ma¡¯am¡±she formally addressed her. Crystal followed the woman¡¯s lead, eyes travelling around the expensive stocks of items.

    Crystal surveyed every thing, her hands gently running across the silky materials of the various dresses thedy brought out for her.

    Minutes passed as she rummaged through every clothing. Suddenly, like aet, it hit her.

    Yes. An idea clicked to her.

    ¡°I could literally escape from here and go far away from Leonardo¡±

    Shit. Why didn¡¯t she think of this from the beginning?

    She ventured out of the dressing room, paying no heed to thedy¡¯s incessant calling.

    ¡°Tell Leonardo I went to ease myself¡±she shot back at thedy in an attempt to keep her quiet.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    She wanted to survey the environment, making sure the coast was clear.

    Leonardo was no where to be seen fortunately for her. The ss doors just stood at the far end corner, so tempting and enticing.

    Her freedomid outside the walls of this boutique, away from the authoritative grip of Leonardo. She couldn¡¯t stand him anymore in her life.

    He was like a virus. A deadly one that was slowly infecting her, taking control of her entire life.

    She wished for an opportunity to escape and now she had seen one.

    It was now or never.

    With sunken shoulders, Crystal briskly walked towards the doors of the boutique and pushed it open immedately.

    She need not to be told what to do. Immedately she stepped outside, she took to her heels.

 Chapter 12

    Crystal ran as fast as her legs could carry her out of the vicinity of the boutique. She wanted to get as far away from Leonardo as possible.

    Her breathing was unsteady as she pushed through the busy crowd that swarm around her like a tide, nervously hitting people and almost tripping in her steps as she scrambled to get away from Leonardo.

    She kept on taking cursory nces of her surroundings especially at her back, anxiously checking if she would spot Leonardo amongst the crowds trying to get to her.

    She knew by now he must have already figured out she was gone from the boutique. If not now then soon he would notice her disappearance but by then she hoped she would be far away from his hold.

    Crystal had no idea where she was heading to as she pushed through the crowds.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡±

    ¡°Sorry. Excuse me¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry¡± were the words she had been fumbling out as she pushed against people, shuffling her feets through the paved walkways.

    Slowly, she began loosing her strength as she ran, her breathing bing very heavy. She stopped for a while and her anxious eyes browsed her surroundings.

    She had this feeling Leonardo was watching her, perfectly waiting for when to strike which got her doused in fear.

    She truly had no idea where she was. She and her sister had barely stayed up to a year in NewYork. They had moved over to the bustling city with hopes of starting a new life after the death of their parents but it seemed fortune was not on their side.

    Instead of getting what they wanted, they ended up finding themselves trying to clear theirte father¡¯s debt. Crystal despised her father and eagerly wanted to leave the horrid past he had put them through but instead she found herself struggling to clean up his mess.

    Crystal then heard a low rumble. She looked up to the sky. The sky was overwhelmed by grey and navy blue clouds.

    It wanted to rain.

    ¡°Fuck!¡±she eximed in anger.

    The posters by the road side swayed to the rhythm of the wind as the sun fought to stay filtered through the clouds.

    Crystal felt like shouting out. The sun shone in the unending bright sky earlier this morning so how did the clouds be dark and gloomy?

    ¡°Nothing can ever go right in my life!¡±she thought to herself.

    Shaky breaths escaped her lips and she kept on walking. She was sure that she had covered a great distance between her and Leonardo.

    A satisfied smile spread across her face . Suddenly she felt something drop on her nose. It was wet. It was a rain drop.

    It had already started drizzling slowly. Everybody began scrambling to find shelter before the real storm settled.

    Crystal was utterly confused. She had no where to go and no money on her. She had to atleast keep on walking and look for shelter because by the looks of it, the storm was looming very fast.

    She kept on taking multiple turns till she found herself in an alleyway. The area was literally deserted apart from a man who stood by a corner making a phone call.

    Crystal felt lost. She was short of cash and she had lost her way. She wasn¡¯t the type that liked talking to strangers but at this very moment she needed the help of anybody so she could be free from the clutches of  Leonardo.

    With rickety feet, Crystal walked over to him. ¡°Excuse me sir¡±She politely called out.

    ¡°I¡¯ll call you backter¡±he said to whoever was on the call with him and gave Crystal curious brows. ¡°How can I help you?¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Well i lost my way and I¡¯m short of cash. Can you please help me?¡±Crystal pleaded.

    He essed her for a while as if trying to figure out if she was being genuine or fake. ¡°Ofcourse I¡¯ll help you¡±He finally said.

    Crystal breathed a sigh of relief and thanked her stars. Probably there was still hope to get away from Leonardo.

    The storm was already settling in with various shes  of lightening and rumbling of  thunder in the foggy clouds.

    The sun had totally gone into hiding leaving the torrentious clouds to take over.

    ¡°Sir please I just need about¡­¡±Crystal wasn¡¯t allowed to the finish her sentence when he suddenly held on to her arm, grinning from ear to ear.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you all the money you want pretty thing¡± he sensually said shing her a wide smile.

    Crystal¡¯s eyes widened and her nose wrinkled in disgust with her eyebrows twitching upwards slightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in your offer again. Thank you¡±she abruptly replied before she  yanked off her arm away from his hold.

    She attempted to turn back but he grabbed on to her again. This time rough and swift. ¡°Where are you going sweetheart? Let me help you¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need your help pervert. Let me go!¡±Crystal spat at him, trying to release her hand from his rough hold.

    He let out a bitterugh and pulled her closer to himself. ¡°Sweet little thing¡±he breathed against her.

    His breath wreaked of alcohol.

    Crystal felt a gag hauling up to her lungs but she pushed it back. ¡°Let go of me you mad man!¡±she yelled but it got himughing.

    Crystal at once kicked him in the groins with her knee which got him wincing in pain and letting go off her. She frantically attempted to take to her heels but as clumsy as she was, she tripped andnded on the cemented ground.

    ¡°Dang!¡±Crystal cried out, her knee bruised slightly. The man immedately grabbed on to her one leg, shooting her a hard, death re.

    ¡°How dare you bitch!¡± He grimaced as he turned red with fury.

    ¡°Let go of my leg¡±she scowled which earned her a painful p on the cheek.

    ¡°Whore! I¡¯ll deal with you I swear!¡±His eyes seethed with exasperation.

    Crystal felt trepidation and horror course through her like powetful waves of the ocean. She was in deep trouble now and she knew nobody woulde to her aid.

    It was already raining and she was partly drenched under the rain.

    Her eyes welled up with tears as she remembered Leonardo. She began wishing for Leonardo to appear which she knew it was impossible noticing how far she was from the boutique.

    The man immedately pulled out a silver dagger from behind his pocket, his hard re ced on Crystal as he took a fistful of her hair.

    Crystal felt  the air seize around her. For a moment she couldn¡¯t breathe and she didn¡¯t know how to react.

    Would she die this way?

    ¡°Watch what I do to you bitch!¡±He yelled, raising the dagger up as Crystal screamed in fear.

    ¡°Let go off her now¡±came the baritone voice that dared to interrupt the ordeal.

    Crystal recognised that voice anywhere. She whipped her head back the same time the man nced up.

    It was Leonardo.

    She couldn¡¯t be more happier to see him right now but from the look of things he wasn¡¯t happy to see her. Instead in his eyes, had a baleful look infused in them. She knew that look well enough. It spoke off raw, bloody, threatening anger.

    His jaws were clenching and unclenching so also his fists which were balled up.

    ¡°You better leave here man!¡±the other man grimaced as he roughly pulled Crystal up from the ground and ced the dagger on her throat.

    Crystal flinched and quaked. She wanted to run away from Leonardo but got into a more dangerous situation.

    Now a knife was ced on her throat.

    ¡°Don¡¯t youe any closer¡±the man threatened Leonardo. If only he knew who Leonardo was, the nature of the human standing in front of him.

    ¡°Or else what?¡±Leonardo replied, unfazed by his threat.

    ¡°Else you die and she dies¡±

    Crystal gulped and shook her head in panic. ¡°I don¡¯t want to die please. I didn¡¯t do anything to you¡± She pleaded.

    ¡°Shut the fuck up!¡±He growled by her ear causing her to jerk and shiver.

    Leonardo gave a false chuckle and turned his back, as if walking away from both of them.

    She became jaws dropped. Wouldn¡¯t he save her?

    ¡°Leonardo!¡±She called out with tears streaking down her cheeks.

    The man gave a breathyugh. ¡°You are all mine princess. Nobody can save you¡±

    This couldn¡¯t be happening.

    Leonardo was literally walking away for her.  ¡°Didn¡¯t hee here to save me?¡± Crystal thought to herself.

    She cried out the more but in an instant Leonardo turned towards them, his blue cold eyes more deadlier than before.

    In his hand, held a gun, swirling around his slender finger as if it was a toy.

    Crystal felt her face lit up and she sniffed.

    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t leave me¡±

    She had never been so happy to see Leonardo.

    ¡°The Fuck!¡±the man eximed, astonished by the gun in Leonardo¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Now again, Let her go¡± Leonardo ordered, cocking the gun and pointing it precisely at the man.

    He gritted his teeth and tightened his hold on Crystal. He wasn¡¯t going down without a fight.

    ¡°Come any closer and I slit her beautiful throat open with my dagger¡±he threatened.

    Leonardo huffed. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare¡±

    Before the man could make a reply, Leonardo pulled the trigger.

    No sound was made but the man slowly let go of Crystal and fell back to the ground, blood gushing from his forehead.

    It was a silencer.

    Crystal stared at Leonardo in nk amazement.

    The downpour had already begun and they both stood under the rain in the deserted alleyway. Her dress stuck to her body and she stood glued to the spot, terrified of what Leonardo would do to her.

    ¡°Follow me now!¡±His voice boomed.

    She need not to be told. She hurriedly walked over to him.

    He yanked her hands roughly leading her out of the alleyway.

 Chapter 13

    CRYSTAL

    I sat in the car with Leonardo, mortified hands clenching on to my wet dress that seemed like it was glued to my trembling body.

    A deadly silence spread through the atmosphere like a wild fire, destroying every thing in its path as Leonardo drove along the high way.

    I scrutinised his facial features as he drove. He was still visibly angry and it was affecting his way of driving. He drove speedily like we each had an extra life, overtaking cars and honking unnecessarily.

    ¡°Leonardo..¡±I called out in a shaky breath.

    I got no reply but his gaze terribly focused on the road apanied by his menacing look.

    ¡°Thank you¡±I voiced out in one breath, my tone wavering.

    He immedately took a sharp turn which made me let out a shriek and pulled over.

    ¡°You are thanking me?¡±His acrimonious voice sarcastically asked.

    I nodded my head frightfully unaware of what next to say.

    ¡°Do you know what could have happened to you if i hadn¡¯te on time?¡±He barked like an angry dog.

    I knew fully well what would have happened if not for his timely arrival. I avoided the thought like a gue. I could have been abused or possibly died.

    ¡°What is wrong with you!? This is your second time of trying to run away. Stop testing my patience Crystal. We made a fucking deal!¡±he yelled, his nostrils ring up in pure rage.

    I shivered and tears pooled in my eyes.

    ¡°Stop shouting at me!¡±I heard my voice cry out even before I could stop myself.

    He stared at me in utter disbelief.

    ¡°What?¡±He asked lowly with eye brows raised.

    I cleaned the tears threatening to spill and sniffed my nose. ¡°If you had treated me better, if you atleast showed me human empathy, probably I wouldn¡¯t have thought of running away. But no! You are a beast. A monster. A cruel human. A devil. I hate you. You flog me, treat me like a meremodity, toss me over like a rag and make me do things I don¡¯t want to. Why shouldn¡¯t I run away?!¡±

    I suddenly didn¡¯t feel scared any more. To hell with the consequences that woulde with my actions.

    I was sick and tired of the way he treated me. It hadn¡¯t even been up to a month and this beast in a human form treats me with so much disgust and disdain.

    I stared at him eyeball to eyeball, daring to face his cold blue orbs and challenging his authority over me.

    ¡°Let me make one thing clear to you Crystal..¡±he began after a brief, tormenting moment of silence.

    He gripped my chin with one hand, his sharp long finger nails pressing into my jaws, probably leaving a mark there, causing me to wince in pain and shut my eyes.

    ¡°I own you and I have the right to treat you however I want to treat you. Don¡¯t annoy me any further else I¡¯ll make sure I throw you to the back seat, tie you up and do some nasty things to your body, making sure the entire street hears your pretty screams¡±He gruffed.

    I gulped and he pushed my chin away, bringing his hands back to the steering wheel and igniting the car once more.

    I was shaking. What did he mean by doing nasty things to my body?

    I dreaded thene in which my mind was leading me to and I shook my head to clear off those mundane thoughts.

    I turned my face at him. Still quivering, I decided to ask, ¡°Are we still going to see me sister?¡±

    He huffed at me. ¡°No chance. We are heading back to the mansion. No buts¡±

    I felt my eyes being choked up with tears. I wanted to scream, shout, thrash around and hit my head repeatedly on the car sit but I suddenly lost my voice.

    I pressed my lips in tightly as I felt tears threatening to spill over.

    Leonardo didn¡¯t even nce at my forlorn state, instead he kept on driving like I wasn¡¯t even existing. He ignored me like I wasn¡¯t seated right next to him, experiencing an emotional rollercoaster.

    What sort of a life is this?

    * * * * * * *

    Time moved really fast in the mansion. After my failed attempt to escape yesterday, Leonardo truly kept to his word of not letting me go see my sister again.

    My freedom, my life, my choice were literally snatched out of my hold. I was not in control of my fucking life any more.

    Everything was in Leonardo¡¯s hands. I felt so suffocated in this prison like mansion.

    Ever since he dropped me back at the mansion, I had not set my eyes on him again. He did not spend the night in the mansion which got me relieved.

    I usually felt able to breathe whenever he wasn¡¯t looming around the corners of the mansion.

    I felt a bit of freedom knowing his callous eyes weren¡¯t monitoring my every movement like a criminal.

    I spent my morning with Maya as usual. She was such a bubbly elderly woman.

    I listened to her ramble about her grandson and Leonardo. It seemed she was very fond of Leonardo.

    I wondered why Leonardo grew up to be so cold when the woman who raised him was practically so good and filled with love and light.

    I nced at the digital rectangr clock ced in the kitchen. It was three pm sharp.

    ¡°Maya will Leonardoe home today?¡±I asked as we sliced some carrots.

    ¡°Ofcourse. A function is to be heldter in the night. He wille back¡±she replied.

    What?

    I felt my breathing obstructed in my lungs and my eyes widened.

    I didn¡¯t expect him toe back so quick.

    I thought he would leave for a week like thest time.

    ¡°I know you are surprised he ising back¡±she added as if sensing my anxious thoughts.

    I nodded with a slight exhale.

    ¡°It¡¯s kind off like a ritual in the Constanzo family. They throw functions very well especially to celebrate business deals. When his father was alive, he was always throwingrge functions¡±she exined.

    I hummed and gave her a soft smile.

    ¡°You should go get rest so you can be ready before sunset. The house will be bustling with people by then¡±she adviced.

    Probably.

    ¡°I¡¯ll Maya. Let me help you out more. I like yourpany¡±I said cheekily.

    Sheughed. ¡°Ok child¡±

    ¡°So tell me, how long have you been in this family?¡±I asked with a wide grin.

    I truly loved spending time with Maya. We were generations apart but she reminded me so much of my mother.

    Atleast I could use myst moments of freedom well enough before the Devil would arrive.

    * * * * * * *

    My hands trailed along the walls of the hallway as I made my way downstairs.

    I could hear faint chattering of the lively crowd and the sound grew louder as I approached downstairs.

    I was putting on a silver coloured off shoulder gown that Maya handpicked for me coupled with a pair of heels.

    My hair was let loose to fall at my shoulders but I spiced it up by adding some butterfly shaped hair pins to it. I wasn¡¯t a makeup expert so I applied some mascara, light foundation to cover up my gloomy face and a shiny lip gloss to match.

    I looked beautiful and simple.

    I stood by the edge of the staircase, watching the crowd from upstairs. From a simple nce, I could tell this was a formal asion for the elite ss.

    Someone of my status didn¡¯t belong here. The imperialrge living room had been given a total makeover.

    Balloons were situated at all corners, red and blue lights glowing all over the room, giving it a tempting, romantic colour frenzy.

    Waiters buzzed over the ce like bees, carrying trays and serving it to whoever cared.

    My eyes roved about for that one person, searching the sea of highly dressed individuals in search of that one person that was making my life hell.

    My eyes spotted him. He looked up and our gaze locked. I sucked in my breath noticing a blonde was by his side, their hands interlocked.

    Was she his woman?

    Why would he have a woman and force me to stay with him in his house, doing all sorts of forbidden things to me?

    He was a cheat.

    He gave me a knowing smirk as he realised I had my absolute gaze on the blonde he was with.

    I tore my eyes away from his and walked downstairs, my hands gliding through the gold rails of the staircase.

    Once I was downstairs, I totally ignored his presence and looked for a deserted ce to stay in. Every part of the living room was upied with people

    Soft ssical music yed reverabatingly out of the living room.

    I noticed an empty seat and quickly went to sit on it before it would get upied.

    I felt so left out. I truly didn¡¯t belong here.

    I didn¡¯t want toe to the function but Maya insisted I did because Leonardo specifically told her to make sure I attended the function.

    I only epted the offer for Maya¡¯s sake. I didn¡¯t want to see her disappointed.

    Now I was here, I still wished I didn¡¯te but atleast I could spare thirty minutes here.

    It was a good thing Leonardo saw me. Atleast he would know I attended his fucking function.

    I spotted him dancing with the blonde, his hands wrapped around her waist and face buried in her neck.

    I suddenly felt this burning sensation in my chest. My face became disconcerted as I watched them.

    I noticed him whipping his gaze to mine. I immedately adopted a stoic expression

    , trying to hide my disgust.

    ¡°Can we dance?¡±A young man came to me offering me his hand.

    I truly wasn¡¯t in the mood.

    I shook my head and offered him a pleasant smile. ¡°I am sorry. I¡¯m not in the mood¡±

    He nodded and walked away, leaving me to my disheartening thoughts.

    After about some minutes of staying, I stood up with an exhale.

    I couldn¡¯t stay here anymore. It was suffocating. I fought to scramble my feet out of the living room but identally hit a waiter, having the contents of his tray spill on my gown giving it an awful stain.

    Fuck.

    All eyes were on me at this point.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡±the waiter apologised immedately.

    ¡°No it¡¯s fine. It¡¯s my fault¡±I insisted with a smile.

    I heard the blonde hiss. ¡°Uurgh. Who is she Leo? Don¡¯t you know how to walk?¡±she spat.

    I stared with my lips slightly parted at her then to Leonardo.

    ¡°She¡¯s just a maid honey. Don¡¯t focus on her. Let¡¯s enjoy our function¡±he replied without even batting an eyelid.

    ¡°And you, get out off here¡±he added gruffly pointing at me.

    Everyone continued with their business except I who stood on the spot, shaken by what Leonardo just addressed me as.

    Me? A maid?

    It felt like the earth should swallow me up.

    I felt tears pool in my eyes and I quickly scurried out of the living room, frantically heading upstairs to my room before anyone had the chance of seeing me crumble into tears.

    ¡°I hate you Leonardo!¡±I screamed in tears the moment I had bolted inside my room.

    I shut the door and roughly pulled off my heels before falling on the bed.

    With my face buried in the pillow, I cried out bitterly.

    He just addressed me as a maid. I didn¡¯t beg for him to bring me to his mansion. I didn¡¯t want to attend this freaking function in the first ce.

    But I did. And I got insulted.

    I will forever despise Leonardo.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

 Chapter 14

    CRYSTAL

    A week passed since Leonardo shamelessly disgraced me in front of the guest in his party. I still couldn¡¯t believe he had the temerity to say that to someone who didn¡¯t even want to show up at his goddamn function in the first ce.

    I never wanted to be in this house to begin with. I was forced in here. I lived my life in this solitary confinement. I had every means ofmunication to the outside world ripped away from me.

    I was more or less a prisoner and he had the guts to call me a maid.

    I am fully convinced Leonardo escaped from an asylum.

    I hate that man so much. To actually think he would have the decency to apologise to me after the vulgar things he spat at me in the party.

    I guessed I expected too much from him.

    He is nothing but a beast that¡¯s incapable of having human emotions. I hate him so much and I just wish I could end my misery by killing him.

    I hadn¡¯t even set my eyes on him after that incident. I could still remember the taunting smiles that everyone wore on their faces after Leonardo insulted him.

    His guest were just like him. They probably derived pleasure in seeing others get hurt, in belittling others and trampling over the poor masses.

    I felt a huge wave of freedom when Maya told me the next day that Leonardo travelled on a business trip once again. He seemed to travel alot and it was a good thing. I don¡¯t think I could have stand to see his face after what he did to me in the party.

    Time seemed to move really fast whenever Leonardo wasn¡¯t around and it went by like a snail when he was.

    Nevertheless, I was still very grateful of the fact that I had a breathing space.

    As expected, the beast made sure to restrict my movements by assigning his guards to track my every move.

    He was such a dominating freak.

    ¡°Crystal my child¡± I heard the soft familiar voice of Maya walk into my thoughts and jolting me out of my reverie.

    I nced at her. She stood looming by the doorways of the library.

    I offered her a pleasant smile. ¡°Maya good¡­¡±my voice trailed off as I had to nce at the wall clock to ascertain the time.

    ¡°Good evening¡± I immedatelypleted.

    Wow it was evening already.

    I was so engrossed in exploring the vast knowledge of ideas oozing out of the library that I hadn¡¯t realise how fast I had lost track of the time.

    Once again, time went in a sh whenever Leonardo wasn¡¯t moving around the corners of his mansion.

    ¡°You have been here for such a long time. I decided to check on you. Don¡¯t you feel lonely?¡± She asked stepping inside.

    I sighed.

    ¡°No Maya. But I¡¯ll love to spend time with you¡±i replied with utmost sincerity.

    I truly wasn¡¯t feeling lonely. These days, I found sce in just enjoying my ownpany.

    Whenever Leonardo was around, I had my pulse racing at 140 beat per minute. I was usually so astonished at how one man could evoke so much fear in me.

    Leonardo was a nightmare in my life. His sudden appearance into my life were like foggy clouds that would not vanish away.

    They said there¡¯s always a rainbow after a storm but the storm in my life had be my life and there was no way escaping from it.

    I just had to let it rain on me.

    ¡°Come child. Dinner is almost ready. Come let¡¯s set up. Some one ising over¡±Maya sweetly said to me.

    My breathing got hitched at once and I almost choked on the air.

    Who wasing?

    Leonardo?

    I had no clue when he would be back from his business voyage but I didn¡¯t want him toe back, at least not now.

    He just left about two days ago.

    ¡°W-who? Who is cing?¡±I stuttered, suddenly unable to process my words.

    Maya hiked a brow at me. ¡°You look tensed Crystal. It isn¡¯t Leonardo ok¡±

    I found myself breathing a sigh of relief.

    Maya was no stranger in noticing how agitated I would always feel whenever Leonardo was around.

    ¡°Who is it then?¡±I questioned, my nerves slowly rxing.

    A broad smile walked its way to her lips. ¡°It¡¯s my grandson. He ising to pay me a visit for some days¡±she chirped excitedly.

    Wow. She had a grandson.

    ¡°That¡¯s amazing Maya. I¡¯ll really love to meet him¡±

    It would be nice having another human in the house apart from Maya and the multiple workers that roamed the mansion and it¡¯s guarded vicinity.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    ¡°Come child. Let¡¯s go set up dinner together. I¡¯m very sure you both will enjoy each otherspany¡±Maya said confidently.

    She spoke so highly of her grandson.

    I stood up and returned the book I was reading before going over to her.

    ¡°I have a feeling already¡± I cheekily replied with a gloaty smile.

    Who ever he was, I was really anxious to meet him.

    ¡°So tell me child. What book were you reading?¡±Maya asked as we walked through the hallways.

    Iughed. ¡°One of Williams Shakespeare¡¯s books. King Lear is the tittle¡±

    ¡°You know I wish i could read English books. I can only speak but I don¡¯t know how to read¡± Maya confessed.

    I was so thrown aback by her statement.

    She speaks English so fluently so how can¡¯t she read it.

    ¡°Why can¡¯t you read English Maya?¡±I asked, my face contorted.

    ¡°My child back in my day¡­.¡±

    I listened to Maya as she took me on a walk down memoryne.

    Although I hated every nano second I spent in this mansion, Maya had won my heart over.

    I just hoped her grandson would be as cheerful and loving as her.

    * * * * * * * *

    I took bites out of the chicken that was pierced into my fork.

    I sat in the dinning room, eating with Maya as we awaited the arrival of her son.

    I noticed Maya would asionally nce at the clock in between our various discussions.

    She was getting tensed. I could feel it. Worried lines drew on her forehead while we both waited for her grandson.

    ¡°Maya¡±I called out to her.

    She gave me a faint smile. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s holding him. He should have been here an hour ago¡±

    I stretched out my hand to touch hers, gently caressing her fingers.

    ¡°He will be here ok. If you keep on thinking about it you will end up being so worried¡±I reassured her.

    She exhaled and softly gave me a nod.

    ¡°Now why don¡¯t we enjoy this¡­.¡±my voice trailed off as a maid approached both of us.

    ¡°Maya he is there¡±she meekly announced with a courtesy bow.

    I watched Maya¡¯s eyes shimmer like that of a child being given candy.

    ¡°Tell him toe in please¡±she said happily.

    I was very much eager to meet him.

    The maid left us only toe back few secondster with a familiar face that I knew too well walking in with her.

    Chase.

    I bolted up from my seat immedately our gaze locked.

    ¡°Chase!¡±I practically screamed, my feet running over to hug him.

    ¡°Crystal oh my God. What the hell!¡±Chase eximed the minute we pulled away from each others embrace.

    I was at lost for words. I hugged him again, even more tighter not minding the various stares I was getting from  Maya and the workers that patrolled the area.

    I¡¯ve missed him. Seeing him brought back memories of Bailey and memories of my sister, Mabel.

    ¡°Look at you Crystal. How have you been?¡±He asked excitedly.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been ok. What about you? You are Maya¡¯s grandson?¡±

    Heughed and hoisted his two hands at me ¡°Guilty as imed¡±

    ¡°You two know each other?¡±Maya asked, confusion written across her face.

    I nodded and faced her. ¡°Ofcourse we do Maya.  Chase is my very good friend¡±

    And also my childhood crush.

    I giggled at my thoughts and nced back at Chase.

    He looked as handsome as ever.

    ¡°Well dinner won¡¯t eat itself. Let¡¯s all eat¡±Chase smugly said with a smirk.

    I went over to my seat, chaseing to sit by my side as we began chattering and discussing.

    My life suddenly felt renewed with chase¡¯s arrival. Now my only prayer was for Leonardo not to show up any moment from now.

 Chapter 15

    CRYSTAL

    I slept so soundly like a baby yesterday night knowing that Chase was practically living with me under the same roof.

    It was absurd, unbelievable and too good to be true. I could not keep track of the multiple number of times I woke up at night asking myself if I was literally dreaming.

    This world seemed to be such a small world. Some days ago I was sulking in my bedroom, cursing Leonardo for bringing me into this prison called a mansion.

    I never believed I¡¯ll get to see Bailey or Mabel ever again not to talk of chase.

    But it seemed the universe has a way of aligning things.

    Now I felt regenerated and for once, I felt extremely happy.

    Who knows how long it wouldst?

    I just wished Leonardo would nevere back.

    ¡°Goodmorning Crystal¡±Chase greeted me the minute he spotted me as I came downstairs.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    ¡°Goodmorning chase. How was your night?¡±I merrily responded.

    He shed me a smile. ¡°It was cid, what about yours?¡±

    We both moved toward the dinning section.

    A banquet of breakfast had already been prepared. I am sure it was the handwork of Maya.

    The woman was just too happy to see her grandson.

    ¡°I could say same chase¡±I replied meekly.

    He helped me pull out a chair, shing me his beautiful smile and my face got flushed of its colours.

    ¡°Thank you chase¡±I replied softly. Chase was indeed a gentleman. He respected women and would never raise his hands to touch a woman.

    He was the opposite of Leonardo.

    I stuffed some beef into my mouth as chase sat next to me, eating.

    ¡°Crystal you know you never did get to tell me what you were doing here¡±Chase said out of the blue.

    My eyes widened and I almost choked on my beef.

    ¡°Easy princess¡± he admonished as he handed me a ss of water.

    I sculled it down at once and blinked severally.

    ¡°You want to know why I¡¯m here?¡± I asked nervously.

    He gave me longing eyes. ¡°Ofcourse I do¡±

    Chase then proceeded to drop his fork and stared at me. ¡°I stopped seeing you around and one time when I ran into your sister Mabel, she said you travelled. Bailey said you travelled to Toronto but here you are. You are in New York. I truly don¡¯t understand the entire story¡±

    Damn it.

    How can I exin to chase that I was forcefully brought into this house against my will?

    How can I tell him the bitter truth behind my stay in this mansion?

    I felt goosebumps all over my body as my mind raced for various, possible exnations to reply with.

    Chase stare lingered on me and I gulped.

    He then ced his hand on top mine, gently and softly caressing it.

    I took a cursory nce at his hands that now covered mine and back at his hazel eyes.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±He asked and leaned in closer. I guessed he must have sensed my apprehension.

    ¡°Well¡­. um.. I live here¡­ because I-i work. Yes¡± I struggled to process the words.

    Chase gave me curious brows.

    ¡°You work. You work here?¡±

    I gave him a droop of my head. ¡°Yes I do. I work here¡±i replied trying to stop the jitters from spreading in my body.

    Chase didn¡¯t seem like he was satisfied with my answer. ¡°So your boss is Leonardo?¡±He persisted further.

    My breathing got clogged in my throat and I stared jaws ajar at him.

    The mention of that name alone sent shivers down my spine.

    How did he know Leonardo?

    ¡°You know Leonardo?¡±I slowly asked, fear suddenly coursing through me.

    He nodded and moved back, a grin walking to his face. ¡°We grew up together. My grandmother raised both of us¡±

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±I asked stuperfied.

    He nodded and chuckled.

    Leonardo was raised up by a cheerful, kind woman so why did he turn out to be this cold and wicked?

    Chase is not nothing like him.

    Leonardo was surrounded by two extremely good people growing up so why didn¡¯t their attitude rub off on him?

    He turned out to be a devil in the body of a human.

    ¡°Leonardo, I see him as a brother to be honest. Though I know how overbearing he could be sometimes.

    Hope he is not like that to you?¡±

    Ofcourse he was overbearing towards me. He expressed how dominating he was and he made me feel like trash.

    But I couldn¡¯t say this to Chase.

    ¡°He isn¡¯t like that towards me chase¡±I lied whilst adopting a pleasant smile to cover up my lie.

    This lie felt so bitter in my mouth.

    ¡°How long will you be staying here Crystal?¡± Chase asked as he resumed eating.

    ¡°Mabel is seriously missing you¡±he added.

    I miss her too.

    I miss her badly. I wish i could leave here to go see her.

    Leonardo totally cut off mymunication from the outside world. He didn¡¯t let me take my phone or myptop.

    I remembered the day I was forced to live in here with him like it was yesterday. The day he threatened to kill my sister and also have his goons defile her.

    I suddenly felt ustrophobic as those images shed through my mind.

    ¡°Are you alright Crystal?¡±Chase asked and I immedately jerked in my seat.

    I didn¡¯t even realise I had zoned him out as I became lost in a maze of my own thoughts.

    I nced at him. ¡°I am. I will being back very soon¡±

    He gave me a soft smile and caressed my cheeks. I felt a butterfly earthquake in my stomach as he caressed my cheeks.

    ¡°You seem so tensed. Rx ok¡±

    Yes I was tensed. He was throwing me so many daunting questions.

    I smiled faintly and began eating once again. Atleast I hoped the food will distract me from my disheartening thoughts.

    ¡°After breakfast or when you feel more at ease, why don¡¯t we spend time together yes?¡±

    ¡°We could see a movie¡±he added.

    I had a beam on my face. This was what I had always wished for back then. I wanted to spend time with Chase but I never knew how to.

    Bailey would  always try to sync us together but I would be to shy. Now he was offering it to me on a tter of gold.

    ¡°Ofcourse chase. I¡¯ll love to¡±I replied merrily.

    ¡°Now she¡¯s smiling¡±He cheekily said which made meugh.

    Spending time with Chase will definitely lift up my mood.

    I wanted to enjoy my little happiness while itsted.

    * * * * *

    I walked together with Chase as we explored the beautiful garden behind the mansion. For a rugged man, Leonardo did have a fancy and lovely home.

    Everything was oozing pure luxury and wealth.

    The colourfulrgewn that spread across his mansion and the chirping of birds and buzzing of bees  just gave off a serene feeling.

    The various scents of the flowers in the gardenbined to give off an enchanting frangant frenzy.

    As the sun set, the thin strips of cloud on the horizon turned shimmering gold. The sky was bathed with a canvas of pink, orange and blue colours.

    Everything was so enthralling and lovely. For a moment, I forgot I was trapped in this mansion and I just wanted to stay forever.

    I had never actually stepped out of the huge doors of the mansion.

    I never explored it either. I was mostly stuck inside.

    Buting outside now, I felt so happy to be able to see the warm glow of the sunset.

    I sat on one of the numerous patio chairs littered across the garden.

    Chase sat by my side and dropped an arm around my shoulder as we both enjoyed nature¡¯s beauty.

    The breeze blew gently and my hair whipped across my face.

    I tucked it behind my ear and rested my head on chase¡¯s shoulder.

    Today had turned out to be amazing.

    I got to watch a movie with Chase and we yed a lot of indoor games together.

    I just wished he would never go at the same time I wished he would go and take me with him. Either ways I just wanted to be by his side.

    Although I felt happy, whenever I remembered he was just staying for a week, my heart would be troubled.

    I¡¯ll be back to my dull and dark life that had no colours in it. I could just enjoy the moment while itsted at least.

    ¡°Come Crystal. I wanna show you something¡± chase said as he stood up and stretched out his hand to me.

    I grasped hold of his hand and he led me to an unknown destination in the garden.

    I gasped on seeing where he led me to. It was a little pond.

    I never knew there was a pond in here.

    I moved closer to it, chase trailing after me and stared at my reflection in the glimmering waters.

    I could spot the moon which had faintly began to appear out of the clouds.

    ¡°How did you know there is a pond here Chase?¡±

    ¡°Because I grew up here¡±He revealed.

    My jaws were ajar and I tried to process what I just heard.

    He grew up in this same mansion?

    ¡°Are you serious?¡±I asked bbergasted.

    He nodded. ¡°Yes. I grew up with Leonardo remember. We both yed here. We would run around the garden together ying in the pond. We had wonderful memories here¡± he confessed with a saturated smile on his face.

    Wow. Chase and Leonardo must have been really close growing up.

    I wondered if they were still close like that?

    I shouldn¡¯t pry into their personal life.

    I faced my attention back at the pond.

    ¡°Beautiful¡± I whispered as I stared at the inviting pond.

    ¡°Just like you¡±Chaseplimented.

    I whipped my head to face him and giggled.

    ¡°You are beautiful Crystal¡±he softly said, his hazel eyes prating into my soul.

    This felt so perfect but at the same time it felt scary.

    I tore my eyes away from his stare and he interlocked his hands with mine.

    My face was flushed with delight but I remained silent and we just enjoyed the serenity of the atmosphere.

 Chapter 16

    CRYSTAL

    I walked ponderously downstairs, my hands scraping against the walls of the hallway as I reminisced about what happened yesterday evening between I and chase.

    I felt my cheeks going beetroot red whenever I remembered how he interlocked his fingers with mine. The feeling was incredible, unrivalled with any sort of emotion.

    I totally felt myself rxing and I allowed his soft touch to soothe and calm my torrentious nerves.

    A giggle escaped my lips as my thoughts kept on driving back to chase.

    He made me so happy and he had just been here for a day.

    I wish he would never go. I just wished.

    My flip flops made smacking sounds as they hit the tiled floors which irked me. The imperial living room was as busy as usual.

    I held on to the railings of the stair case as I alighted from it.

    Workers were cleaning, mopping, vacuuming every nook and cranny even though the house looked spotless. God. Leonardo had truly ignited fear in the minds of all of them.

    Even when he was absent, they dared not to ck in their duties.

    ¡°Maya Goodmorning¡±I greeted once I had stepped into the kitchen.

    About five cooks were stationed at the kitchen counter, preparing various cuisines.

    Leonardo¡¯s kitchen was truly sorge. It was asrge as a dinning room. A long kitchen table that could probably fit fifteen people stood at the centre of the kitchen.

    Various cupboards, kitchen utensils and stools crafted from the finest woods were all ced at different corners of the kitchen.

    The sun rays created a cluster of rainbow colours as they hit the marble walls of the kitchen.

    ¡°Child how are you?¡± She chirped happily.

    Ever since chase¡¯s visit, Maya had been more happy than usual. I guess he didn¡¯t visit her that often.

    She was literally radiating with smiles.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine Maya. How was your night?¡±

    She chortled and wiggled her nose. ¡± Well it was peaceful. I slept like a young child¡±she responded

    Iughed at her reply.

    My eyes peeped outside the kitchen, trying to see if I could spot chase in the sea of workers.

    He was no where in sight. Strange.

    Did he leave already?

    My heart sank to my stomach the moment that thought crossed my mind.

    ¡°Maya w-wh-where is Chase? He didn¡¯t leave did he?¡±I questioned with trembling lips.

    Maya sighed and shook her head. ¡°He didn¡¯t. He just had to rush to attend to some work issues early this morning¡±

    I sighed in relief and sunken my shoulders.

    I didn¡¯t even realise I had been holding my breath.

    ¡°Do you miss him?¡±Maya asked with a mischievous smirk.

    My face turned scarlet red and I casted my eyes downwards. ¡°No.. I mean yes. Well.. Maya¡±I struggled with my words.

    I heard Mayaugh and she gave me a pat on my head which made me raise my face to nce at her.

    ¡°I see you are two are familiar with each other. It¡¯s nice. Just be careful ok¡±she advised before leaving the kitchen.

    Why was she telling me to be careful?

    Was it because of  Leonardo?

    I shrugged my shoulders and disregarded the thought of having to think of Leonardo.

    I was happy already. I wouldn¡¯t spoil my few moments of happiness by thinking of that devil.

    * * * * * *

    ¡°Crystal there you are!¡±Chase called out joyfully the moment he spotted me in the library.

    I dropped the book I was reading and raised my head to capture his inviting gaze.

    He strolled inside and pulled a chair next to me.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been looking for you Crystal. I thought you left the mansion¡±

    Well I wish I could leave. I thought to myself.

    ¡°When did youe back Chase? Maya said you rushed out for work duties¡±I asked.

    I took a cursory nce at the wall clock. It was half past four pm. I had been so eagerly waiting to see chase.

    He made my world filled with light. He brought me out of the pits of darkness that was threatening to sink me into its dangerous and frightening hold.

    I needed someone who had an aura of love and light around me.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I just got back now Crystal¡±

    ¡°So what did you go do? I don¡¯t mean to be prying though¡±I asked feeling a little nervous.

    ¡°I went to drop my letter of resignation¡±he replied without batting an eyelid at me.

    I gasped and pulled my hands over my mouth. What?

    ¡°Why would you do that? I thought you loved your job?¡±

    He chuckled heartily.

    Chase was an editor for a prespany. He seemed ok with his job. The pay was good. I sometimes envied him. I sought to get such a job but I was always turned down.

    ¡°I feel I¡¯m not utilizing my full abilities. I mean I do love my job but I feel empty. I want to work because I love what I do not just because of the money¡±he exined.

    ¡°Oh¡±was what I could manage say as I paid rapid attention to him.

    ¡°So what do you want to do now?¡±I queried.

    ¡°I want to pursue my writing career. I want to be an author. I want to write novels. I have a whole lot of ideas in my head and I¡¯m dying to begin a new exciting journey¡±he responded with glee.

    My eyes glimmered and I grinned. I loved his high spirits. It was contagious. ¡°Have you applied in any novelpany¡±

    He nodded at me. ¡°Ofcourse. I¡¯ve signed a contract with three already. I really feel this is what i should do. I feel this is my calling you know¡±

    I ced my hand on his and softly rubbed his fingers. ¡°Go for it chase. I know you will be a great author¡±

    He looked at me with longing eyes and leaned in closer. ¡°Can I tell you something Crystal? I feel this is the right time¡±He whispered.

    I felt a butterfly havoc in my stomach and my toes curled up in expectation of what he wanted to say.

    ¡°You are so hard-working. You are beautiful. You are a good person. You are an angel you know. Ever since you moved into our neighbourhood, I observed how you would go out and hustle to fend for you and your sister. I observed it all. Yourte nightsing and your ability to preserver. Crystal you are amazing¡±he breathed to me.

    He grasped hold of my chin to  intently stare at him.

    I gulped and my body tingled with hopes. A million emotions were being brought to life within me as I and chase stared at each other.

    My cheeks were drained of its colours and it took everything for me not to turn my face away.

    ¡°Crystal I really admire you. I have admired you for such a long time. When your sister told me of your sudden departure, I felt so sad. But now seeing you here, it¡¯s amazing. Crystal I-i love you deeply¡±

    The bomb had been dropped.

    I suddenly lost my voice and I didn¡¯t know what to say. I blinked severally, trying to process what I just heard.

    I couldn¡¯t think or even react. Everything was at a stand still for me.

    ¡°Crystal I really do love you. And I¡¯ll love if you could be my girlfriend¡±chase genuinely confessed.

    Finally! he asked me out.

    I felt fireworks explode in me. My heart raced to its summit and my knees felt wobbly.

    He finally asked me out.

    But why was I suddenly feeling scared?

    I wanted this, or didn¡¯t I?

    Chase had his fixed gaze on me, his slender fingers still caressing my chin.

    Suddenly he leaned in more closer and locked his lips with mine. Time frozed in a collision of senses the moment his lips met mine.

    My lips quivered with each breath I took as chase kissed me deeply. His lips felt so soft and warm against mine. His hand trailed from my chin to my waist, tugging me closer to himself.

    My heart skipped a beat and my knees gave in. His fingers moved underneath my shirt, sinking with my skin of its own ord. It trailed towards my back, running along my spine slowly.

    I gave out a moan as chase deepened our kiss, our tongue moving in sync.

    No, this shouldn¡¯t be happening.

    It was what I always wanted so why did this suddenly feel bad.

    I ced my hand on his chest and pulled my lips away, breaking our kiss.

    His lips travelled to my neck, gently sucking on it.

    ¡°Chase please stop¡±I breathed airily.

    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡±my voice trailed off as I fought to stifle a moan that was threatening to spill out of me.

    ¡°What the fuck!¡±came the exasperated growl that snapped both I and chase out of our romance.

    My body jolted as I stared at the dangerous profile of Leonardo who was standing by the doorway of the library.

    Oh shit.

    Now I¡¯m in trouble.

 Chapter 17

    Crystal stared at the dangerous figure of Leonardo who loomed by the doorway of the library.

    The look in his eyes were threatening. She had never seen it before. The muscles in his jaw clenched and unclenched. His fist were balled up so tight she could swore his knuckles were turning white.

    His demeanour spoke off raw anger. Raw, bloody and threatening.

    ¡°How dare you Crystal?¡±He asked rather too calmly as he took predatorial steps towards a trembling Crystal and confused chase.

    Chase stood up with a smile but it vanished once his eyes snapped with Leonardo¡¯s fiery gaze.

    Crystal bolted up at once and swiftly stood in front of chase in a sh, keeping Leonardo and him distant.

    ¡°Leonardo please I can exin¡±Crystal spoke up trying to stop the jitters from spreading across  her body but it was of no use.

    Leonardo had his persistent gaze on both of them, his bloodshot eyes scaring the wits out of them.

    ¡°Crystal what¡¯s going on?¡± Chase asked calmly but his tone had already begun failing him.

    Leonardo snapped his fingers and began pping.

    ¡°Wow. So this is what you both were up to? I didn¡¯t know you wereing to my house to fuck my woman¡±he spat with a false chuckle.

    ¡°Your woman?¡±Chase asked, his features disconcerted.

    Crystal felt a clog in her throat hearing him utter those words.

    How did she be his woman?

    Why was she even feeling ountable to him?

    Anger and fear created an abode within her and she felt like screaming out.

    She turned to face chase and attempted to speak when the baritone voice of Leonardo cut her short.

    ¡°I expected better from you Crystal¡±Leonardo stated with a grin.

    ¡°Mario, Luca, Carlos¡±Leonardo called out.

    In a flick, three men of equal muscrity stepped inside the library.

    ¡°Cry-crystal what¡¯s going-on?¡±Chase stuttered, the eagerness and bravery he had earlier on suddenly vanishing.

    ¡°I can exin Leonardo¡± Crystal begged admist feeling tears pool in her eyes.

    He hoisted his hand at her.

    Before she could say another word, Leonardo¡¯s carous hands swiftly yanked her arm. Dragging her away from chase,  he pulled her towards himself with her chest hauled against his front.

    He jutted his chin towards his men whom began approaching chase like he was some sort of prey.

    ¡°Leo c¡¯mon wh-what are you doing?¡±Chase asked terrified.

    Crystal turned her face  immedately to gaze  at Chase mortified features and made an effort to break free from Leonardo¡¯s captive grips but he at once tightened his grip on her waist.

    ¡°Give chase the punishment for messing with my woman¡±Leonardo authoritatively stated.

    Fear masked Crystal¡¯s facial features and her eyes widened in horror.

    ¡°No leo! Please¡±Crystal cried out, tears like a river running down her cheeks.

    Crystal watched, horror struck as one of Leonardo¡¯s men kicked chase to the ground, causing a loud thud.

    She was not even a given chance to register what was going as the awful sounds of kicks and punches followed.

    Crystal¡¯s heart sank to her knees hearing the painful cry of Chase. Her legs struggled to keep her standing and she crumbled into tears.

    ¡°Leo p-please. I-i w-will not touch Crystal.. pl-please¡±Chase begged, his tone shivering and lips trembling with each painful and agonising punch.

    Crystal screamed out and fought to free herself from Leonardo¡¯s grip but  his grip only tightened the more.

    ¡°Leonardo please don¡¯t do this. I beg you please¡±Crystal pleaded with tears distorting her vision.

    ¡°Enjoy the show princess. This is your punishment¡±Leonardo whispered gravely into her ear.

    Crystal shook like a leaf. She begged and begged, her voice bing hoarse but the beating didn¡¯t relent.

    Chase was curled up to a ball.  Blood gushed from his ears, nose and mouth, creating a bloody pool around him but the beating persisted. The agonising and painful sounds of bones breaking filled the air.

    Crystal cried more and hit Leonardo vigorously on the arm, her nails wing and digging into his flesh but his grip didn¡¯t falter.

    He instead nuzzled against the nape of her neck, sucking and stroking on different spots as if nothing was going on.

    Crystal could feel her knees buckling to the ground but Leonardo¡¯s strong hold kept her afloat.

    ¡°Leo for the sake of Maya please¡±Crystal at once screamed in her raspy voice making Leonardo go rigid.

    Crystal could feel his grip on her waist lessening and she at once freed herself from it, falling to the ground in an instant.

    ¡°Let him go¡±Leonardomanded sharply.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    The beating died down immedately.

    Crystal was about crawling towards chase battered and bruised up figure  but Leonardo gripped on to her hair in a flick causing her to flinch and painfully stand up.

    She held on to his hand wincing in pain.

    ¡°Listen here¡±Leonardo growled savagely.

    ¡°The only reason I¡¯m letting him go, the only reason I¡¯m letting him escape his death is because of Maya¡±

    Fear resurfaced in Crystal and she gulped, trying to calm the torrentious waves of emotions surging through her like a strong tide.

    ¡°Next time you try this I¡¯ll ughter the man in your presence. I never want to see him in this mansion¡±He balefully threatened before pushing Crystal to the ground.

    ¡°Ouch¡±Crystal cried out, her elbow grazing the tiles of the floor.

    ¡°Take him out of here. Drop him at a hospital. I¡¯ll foot his bills¡±Leonardo ordered to his goons.

    Crystal watched dem drag chase¡¯s now unconscious body out of the library, leaving a nasty trail of blood behind.

    Her gaze followed their steps until it locked with the trepadised form of Maya who perched by a corner, her frail eyes observing everything.

    Crystal breathing got hitched and she almost choked on the air. Leonardo stood unfazed and exited the library, not passing nces at the elderly woman.

    Crystal ponderously walked towards her, her heart already swimming in her stomach at this point.

    ¡°He banned Chase froming here didn¡¯t he?¡±Maya asked in a whisper.

    Tears formed in her eyes. Crystal attempted to touch Maya but she stepped back at once.

    ¡°Why did you do this to my boy Crystal? I took you as a daughter and you choose to repay me this way!¡±Maya screamed in tears.

    Crystal felt her head spin and confusion washed across her face.

    ¡°H-how? I don¡¯t understand you Maya?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t understand? You knew fully well that  Leonardo  was interested in you and you went ahead to give my chase hopes of a rtionship. I bet you are happy now. I won¡¯t forgive you for this Crystal!¡±Maya spat unforgivingly at Crystal before scurrying her feets away, sobbing.

    Crystal felt a migraine throb in her head.

    Nothing was making sense to her anymore. She at some point forgot to breathe as she tried processing what just happened.

    Everything was going haywire.

    Nothing was ever right in her life.

    Leonardo wasn¡¯t making things easy for her. This was the life she had to get ustomed to.

 Chapter 18

    CRYSTAL

    My heart was thumping. It was mming against its rib cages, threatening to be let out so it could sink into its deepest abyss of sadness and despair.

    I was still trying to grasp the events that just urred. I can¡¯t believe Leonardo had chase beaten up and the brute actually called me his damn woman!?

    When did i be his woman?

    Wasn¡¯t I the same Crystal he embarrassed in his function and had me flogged because I refused to have dinner with him.

    So when the hell did i be his woman?

    Why was he trying to make me feel ountable to him? I hated all these.

    This pain, this heartache is hard to bear.

    Leonardo is gradually turning my life into hell. I¡¯m struggling to keep myself afloat in this abyss of darkness that has be my world.

    My feets quickened in their own ord making me run sharply towards my room.

    Once inside I shut the door hard with the noise reverberate through the air and carried my staggering legs to the shower.

    My lips quivered with each breath I took as the tears like a raging flood came crumbling down, distorting my vision.

    My knees buckled to the ground and I sat underneath the shower.

    I screamed out in pain and anguish. Why was Leonardo doing this to me?

    ¡°Leonardo why are you taking everything away from me?!¡±I found myself yelling in bitter rage.

    My fist balled up in an instant and I crumbled on to the cold tiles of the bathroom, screaming and cursing Leonardo.

    My eyes nced up whilst my hands trailed along the walls of the shower, reaching for the shower rotating valve. I immedately turned it clockwise.

    In no instant did the cold waters of the shower start descending in droplets on to my skin.

    Iid down on the floor and let the icy waters hit my skin like a heavenly downpour, drowning my cries and sorrow in its flow.

    My heart was being shattered into a million pieces when I remembered the look on Maya¡¯s face.

    The harsh words she scoffed at me all because of Leonardo.

    Heavenly deeply knows I bear no harm against chase. He was my childhood crush.

    And now  when I finally realised that he loved me, when he finally told me that he had real feelings for me, that mind blowing moment got snatched away from my grasp even before it blossomed.

    My first love was ripped away from me, shredded into pieces and burnt to ashes.

    Leonardo just proved me today that he is the most selfish and inhumane being I¡¯ve met.

    My heart ceased to beat whenever I imagined not ever seeing life in those beautiful hazel eyes of chase again as I watched him getting brutally beaten up by Leonardo¡¯s thugs.

    The bloody pool that surrounded his body couldn¡¯t get out of my mind. It kept on shing like it was on repeat making me feel worse of myself.

    It felt like I was the cause of everything. I felt like such a badluck to every good person out there.

    Nothing good ever stayed in my life.

    Whilst trying to pay my dad¡¯s debt off, I got myself signed off to this devil of a man.

    He had taken away everything from me. I just can¡¯t bear this any more.

    I cried even more harder as I thought of every turbulent moment i faced till my eyelids became weak and my throat became hoarse.

    As the waters of the shower kept on hitting me, I could feel my eyelids bing heavy.

    An unknown darkness shrouded my vision and I let myself sink into it.

    Darkness. It was all I ever knew.

    * * * * * * * * *

    ¡°Crystal?¡±Maya called out as she stepped into Crystal¡¯s room.

    She was surprised to see the bed was still looking unused. The sheets were still perfectlyid and it didn¡¯t even seem like Crystal slept on it.

    Her gaze narrowed to the wide open windows that weed the awe inspiring rays of the sun into the warm bedroom.

    Maya had her brows furrowed.

    Where could Crystal be?

    Suddenly a sound could be heard. It sounded like gushing of waters and it wasing from the bathroom.

    Maya shuffled her feets towards the bathroom only to meet Crystal lying unconscious on the tiles with the shower waters running down on her endlessly.

    She was terribly soaked.

    A horrified scream escaped the elderlydy¡¯s mouth and she dashed outside in fear.

    ¡°Leonardo¡±maya panted the moment she set her eyes on him strolling through the hallways.

    He tilted his head at her giving her the audience she needed.

    Maya sweated and pointed her hands towards the direction of Crystal¡¯s room.

    Leonardo¡¯s features hardened.

    ¡°It¡¯s cr-crystal. She¡¯s un-unconscious¡±Maya stuttered with trepadised hands.

    ¡°What!?¡±Leonardo bellowed.

    In a bolt, he immedately ran over to crystals room.

    His chest heaved repeatedly in anxiety and anger.

    ¡°Where is she?¡±He asked hyper as his eyes roved around her room.

    ¡°In the shower¡±maya sobbed.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    Leonardo swiftly ran into the shower and met the same daunting sight that Maya earlier met.

    The waters of the shower rained continuously on Crystal and she wasn¡¯t moving an inch.

    Leonardo immediately picked her up. Her wet clothes were sticking on to her body like glue, her hair bing so thin in size and her face looking so pale, flushed of its colours.

    For the first time in forever, Leonardo could feel himself sinking with fear. Horror washed over his face as he carried Crystal like a lifeless body to her bed.

    Dropping her ever so gently of the bed, he turned to face Maya who was already sobbing.

    ¡°Maya chiamare il dottore- Maya call the doctor¡± Leonardo¡¯s frantic voice rang across all corners of the room.

    Maya scurried out at once as Leonardo headed towards the shower to turn off the valve.

    In an instant, he came to Crystal¡¯s side, tears pooling in his eyes as he watched her lie unconscious.

    His hands trailed to hers.

    Gripping hold of her pale, cold fingers, he interlocked his carouse hands with hers.

    His fingers were gently caressing her pale skin as he gazed at her.

    ¡°I promise, you will be fine Crystal¡±he whispered.

 Chapter 19

    Crystal¡¯s pale hands slowly tried moving across the sheets of her bed. But it was barred by a pain so excrutiating it caused her eyes to fly open in an instant.

    Pain.

    Every part of her body was screaming pain. How did shee to feel so much pain?

    It exploded within her skull, trying to suck her back into her shadowy abyss of darkness.

    Her vision was blurry and her head seemed heavy. It spinned like a roller de that had lost its control.

    A beep apanied by another beep was heard. She whopped her head to see the foreign device causing that noise she felt was annoying like a bug.

    A shaky breath escaped Crystal¡¯s parted lips as her eyes locked with the various medical equipments that were ced like barriers next to her bed.

    Intravenous injections were pierced into her rigid arms. She made another weak attempt to move but it felt like her joints were glued together, incapable of separating.

    The pain shot through her cells again and Crystal pinched her eyes closed.

    It was as if a mountain was resting on her body as she found it so difficult to move her aching joints.

    Crystal painstakingly dragged her arms to the duvet of the bed and gripped on to it as if her life depended on it in an attempt to stand up.

    Her vision was still very much blurry as her eyelids slowly fluttered open.

    She sat at up with one push of her body upwards and winced.

    Where was this paining from?

    Why so much pain?

    Her breathing became rapid and she suck in breaths to calm herself down.

    Her frail hands trailed to her cotton gown and she likewise gripped on it, shifting her sickly legs from underneath the duvet to the cold floor.

    Crystal kept her feet on the seemingly ice floor and tried standing to get rid of her blurry vision. Her legs trembled and shook underneath her frail body as she stood up from the bed.

    Refusing to support her body, Crystal¡¯s knees buckled to the ground and she fell down, elbows grazing the flow causing her to wince.

    She wouldn¡¯t still give up even though she was in a hell lot of pain.

    Painstakingly, she crawled and held on to the vanity table that was ced in the centre of the room.

    Gripping on to it this time, she earned her sess and used it to support her thin frame.

    It took all the power within her to stand up again without crashing on to the cold floor.

    Her head spinned even more the moment she had gained her bnce on the ground and her legs suddenly felt too heavy to walk her but Crystal was determined to scurry out of the bedroom.

    As she took ponderous, shaky steps towards the door, dark dots began appearing in her vision causing her to shake her head regrly and blink frequently.

    With her sleeping body, she ventured towards the door, twisting the door knob until a click was heard.

    The doors opened with a click, escorting her out. Her steps were mortified, rickety like a toddler taking it¡¯s first step.

    Crystal¡¯s hand thrashed over a nearby flower pot ced by the door the moment she stepped out, causing it to fall, the piercing sound of ss shattering echoing through the walls of the hallway.

    She turned to see what had broken but couldn¡¯t make out much from it as a result of her slurred vision.

    She made tottering steps towards the railings of the stair case. Everywhere seemed so quiet and peaceful.

    One would actaully mistake her for being the only inhabitant of the mansion.

    ¡°My head¡±Crystal cried out, cing a hand on her forehead.

    It was searing hot, startling the young woman and causing her to flinch.

    Why was she in so much pain all of a sudden?N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    Crystal found herself thinking  deeper than usual in an attempt to decipher the cause of her pain.

    Then the memories like lightening bolt struck her, seizing her breath and pulling tears to her eyes.

    It dawned on her as she remembered everything that took ce yesterday.

    Chase confessing love to her, Leonardo¡¯s sudden arrival, chase being beaten and dragged out like he was a petty thief and her sleeping under the shower.

    Everything felt so surreal to her. How did her life turn out to be this way? How did her life turn out to be this terrible, filled with misery, hurt and pain?

    How?

    That question rang in her mind, seeking for answers.

    Guilty was an understatement of how she was feeling.

    She felt like an ominous cloud of badluck, misfortune and uncertainties over anybody that happened to drop into her life.

    Chase¡¯s awful and agonising screams and pleadings still rang in her ears like an unending music on repeat. The disturbing and gory sight of his blood forming a pool that was encircling his dying body still shed through her mind like she was watching a movie. It sent cold shivers down her spine that got her suddenly shivering.

    The way she screamed and begged Leonardo;vigorously begging the brute to spare innocent chase¡¯s life with her nails wing at his carouse hands, yed constantly in her thoughts.

    Crystal could feel her eyes getting choked up with tears and a gag hauling up her throat.

    She was so deep in thought that she didn¡¯t realise she had reached the stairs before she suddenly started falling.

    Crystal let out a shriek as she felt herself descending but a strong arm wrapped around her slender waist keeping her from hitting the ground.

    With a sharp pivot, Crystal was turned to face Leonardo.

    She gasped and felt her lungs being short of breath as she stared eye ball to eye ball with Leonardo.

    In his blue cold eyes held pain, the agonising type. The type that you get when you are loosing someone you care about.

    ¡°What are you doing out of your bed?¡±Leonardo asked, a hint of concernced in his tone.

    For a moment, one could think he was actually caring but Crystal knew any better than to to trust the man who had inflicted so much pain into her soul.

    His grip on her waist was still firm as they locked their gaze.

    ¡°Why do you care?!¡±Crystal scoffed back, trying to keep a straight head as she could feel herself fading out again.

    ¡°I care because I own you¡±was his unfazed reply.

    ¡°Don¡¯t care about me! I don¡¯t need it!¡± Crystal yelled in pain.

    What more could he do?

    He had taken away everything from her. The least he could do was to end this hell known as her life, atleast she would be in peace.

    Leonardo gave no reply. His grip on her waist lessened and Crystal immedately freed herself from it, staggering back.

    Leonardo attempted to move further but she hoisted her hands at him, making him stop in his tracks.

    ¡°What more do you want from me huh!? Haven¡¯t you done enough!?¡±Crystal spat, venomced in her tone.

    She could feel her body failing her, her vision hauling her to its bottomless pits of darkness as she spoke.

    ¡°You took everything! Every single fucking thing!¡±Crystal cried out as tears began distorting her already blurry vision.

    ¡°Crystal calm down¡±Leonardo advised noticing how her feet were unsteady.

    ¡°Don¡¯t fucking tell me to calm down!¡±Crystal retorted back.

    Her breathing became rapid and her head felt like a dumbbell.

    The darkness like an open arm weed her in and she felt herself been enveloped by it.

    ¡°Crystal¡±Leonardo called out the minute her knees were buckling to the ground.

    In a sh, he held on to her weak frame, hisrge arms encircling her petite figure.

    ¡°I hate you Leonardo¡±Crystal breathed, her voice barely above a whisper before she gave herself off to the darkness that flooded her vision.

 Chapter 20

    Inaudible yellings was what she could decipher in her slumber. She squeezed her eyes tight as she tried to focus on her sleep but the yellings echoed in her mind. It felt like it wasing from a faraway ce, pulling her into its hold.

    At once Crystal shot her eyes open. Her weak vision was distorted and blurred.

    Her eyes trailed to the curtains that were opened wide in hopes of a tempting breeze.

    The sky was painted in a horizontal canvas of blue, orange and pink colours, throwing its enthralling beauty over the mansion.

    How long had she been unconscious? Through out the day she had been slipping in and out of consciousness.

    One moment she was awake and the next moment she found herself being dragged back into the abyss of darkness by a strong ma like pain that was smashing to smithereens her limbs and cells.

    She squinted her eyes to try and make out the face of who it was thundering orders.

    It was Leonardo. By the looks of it, he clearly had no clue she was awake as he kept on booming orders at the doctors who stood in front of him.

    ¡°What is going on with her? Why is she in so much pain? I didn¡¯t pay you both tozy around did I?¡±Leonardo rhetorically asked.

    His Adams apple gobbled up and down in anger and he could feel his fest clenching just by thinking of Crystal¡¯s  weak state.

    Seeing her in this condition ignited fears within him. These sort of fears, he had never felt them before.

    He thought he never cared about her well-being but here he was doing everything he could to get her back on her feet.

    She disobeyed his orders and was never submissive. She even had a kiss with chase that blew up a grenade in his head. He almost killed chase because of it.

    But he was back here trying so hard to get her hale and hearty not even minding the cost.

    When did he suddenly be this caring? How did he be this?

    Leonardo racked his brain to find answers to why he suddenly felt scared by seeing Crystal in this state but he couldn¡¯t get one.

    His mind was lost in abyrinth of puzzles and mysteries.

    Nothing made sense to him now but all he knew was that he wanted to see Crystal healthy again.

    ¡°Will you both answer me!?¡¯Leonardo demanded after a long silence.

    ¡°It will be best if we take her to the hospital so she can be properly administered with drugs and treatment¡±Crystal heard the calm voice of one the doctor respond.

    ¡°She isn¡¯t going anywhere. If you can¡¯t treat her from home then you fuck off. I¡¯ll get better doctors to do that¡±Leonardo savagely spat at the two doctors.

    ¡°Mr Leonardo look..¡±one of the doctors tried reasoning with him but Leonardo hoisted his hands at him.

    ¡°You want me to take her to the hospital so she can get more sick huh? Her condition, her fragile state needs a calm and quiet ce to heal. My mansion is the perfect ce for that. If you can not treat her get your ass of my property and I¡¯ll hire morepetent doctors!¡±Leonardo raged like an angry bull, pointing his index finger at the mortified doctors.

    Crystal could faintly hear what the other doctors were saying. Her head spinned and that same excruciating pain was being thrown into her system again and again.

    Her throat felt dry and parched and her mouth felt acidic. She at once coughed alerting Leonardo and the doctors who quickly turned over to face her.

    ¡°You are awake¡±Leonardo frantically stated, rushing to her side.

    ¡°Water¡±she breathed out in a struggle.

    Leonardo poured water from the  nearby jug on the bedside wardrobe into a cup and fed it to her.

    Crystal drank it hungrily, allowing the cool water wet her desert lungs.

    ¡°What are you both looking at? Get out ore check her!¡± Leonardo baritone voice spat acrimoniously at the doctors.

    They quickly scurried to Crystal, checking her pulse and administering drugs into her drip and intravenous injections.

    ¡°Why are my in so much pain?¡±Crystal asked in a whisper, her eyes being choked up with tears.

    Leonardo gently took one of her frail hands and tenderly caressed it. ¡°You slept in the shower. You have a serious cold¡±

    ¡°You caused¡­ it¡±Crystal replied with hesistance.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    Leonardo ignored her reply and shot res at the doctors.

    ¡°Are you both done?¡±he rudely asked.

    ¡°Yes. We¡¯ve already given you the list for her drugs. We wille check on her again¡±One of them nervously replied.

    Leonardo nodded and tore his gaze from the terrified doctors and back to an ailing Crystal.

    They scampered away leaving only Crystal and Leonardo.

    ¡°Crystal you will be fine ok¡± Leonardo whispered, leaning down to her.

    He brushed off some strands of her thin hair off her face and gave her a peck on the forehead.

    Her skin was hot on his lips.

    Crystal recoiled on feeling his lips on her feeble skin.

    He looked down at her, his eyes a pained stare of guilt and regret.

    He never knew him beating up chase would make Crystal fall sick.

    A sudden pang of jealousy began brewing within him but he managed to control himself.

    ¡°W-why are you l-loo-king at me like that?¡±Crystal struggled to ask in her shaky voice.

    Leonardo gave her no reply. He instead leaned forward once more and began nting pecks on her forehead.

    Crystal flinched once more, expecting his short kisses to be rough and dominating but it felt soft.

    It was calm and soothing, as if telling her that she would be alright.

    His pecks felt like a tranquilizer to her restless soul, gently putting her at ease ever so lovingly.

    How could the same lips that at one point in her life spat vile, hateful words to her also provide her with so much relief?

    Who exactly was Leonardo and what really went on in his mind?

    Leonardo stopped nting  kisses all over Crystal¡¯s face and stared at her.

    Crystal felt very ufortable under his piercing gaze and turned her face away.

    An unsettling silence settled between both of them for a while before the intrusion of a maid who carried a tray of food.

    Crystal stared jaws ajar at it.

    It was heavily stuffed with food. Was it all for her?

    The maid dropped it on the vanity table ced in the room and Leonardo motioned for her to leave.

    ¡°C¡¯mon it¡¯s time to eat¡±Leonardo softly said.

    He at once helped Crystal to sit up straight which got Crystal more dazed. He was being so caring.

    In between the procedure, Crystal kept  on wincing as a result of the various injections piercing through her skin and she feared Leonardo mightsh out at her as a result of her multiple pained cries but he didn¡¯t.

    He was being the opposite of what she knew him for right now.

    Leonardo ced the tray of food on the bed and stuffed some chicken in the fork.

    He brought it up to Crystal¡¯s face and she attempted taking it from his hand but he shook his head at her whilst giving her raised eyebrows, as if telling her he would feed her.

    She gulped and took a bite out of the chicken as he had his unwavering gaze at her.

    Slowly, Crystal felt her nerves rxing and she gradually began feeling more at ease with Leonardo feeding her.

    He kept on feeding her like a toddler as she perused his appearance.

    His long hair that cascaded down his shoulders were dishevelled and messy.

    He had his sleeves folded up and his brows creased.

    He didn¡¯t look like he had rested himself nor eaten.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you eat too?¡±Crystal asked underneath her breath.

    She fervently prayed he wouldn¡¯t yell at her.

    Leonardo gave her a faint smile.

    ¡°I¡¯ll eat once you¡¯ve eaten¡±

    Wow. Who was this man sitting right in front of her? Was this the same Leonardo or it was a different person?

    When did Leonardo became so caring? Could he really be the beast she had always envisioned him as or there was more to his character?

    Her head throbbed with each puzzling question she threw at  herself.

    She opened her mouth and made an attempt to speak but Leonardo cut her short immedately.

    ¡°I¡¯ll eat gattina. You eat first ok. Please eat so you can take your drugs¡±Leonardo admonished softly.

    Crystal slowly agreed to his request. Once again, silence swept through the atmosphere but it wasn¡¯t one that got her scared or anxious.

    This time she felt at peace with it and continued eating from Leonardo¡¯s hand.

 Chapter 21

    CRYSTAL

    My joints made cracking sounds as I tried stretching my pale body on the bed, wanting to feel the warmth of the duvet.  They felt so stiff like rusted irons that needed lubrication.

    My eyes at once shot open in a sh, the lights in my illuminated room almost blinding my sclera. I whipped my face to take a peak at the windows.

    The rays of the sunlight were seeping in through the curtains, making the temperature in the room warm. I truly didn¡¯t know what was going on with my body. I seriously can¡¯t believe I had spent the whole of yesterday slipping in and out of consciousness.

    I felt so ill and sickly yesterday. My head spinned, my throat ached and my skin was searing hot.

    This sudden illness was rming.

    I had just a hazy memory of what transpired yesterday.

    My mind travelled to Leonardo and in a flick, the memories came rushing back into my mind like floodwaters without restraint.

    He was in this same room by night with me, feeding me from his hands whilst nting wet soft kisses in form of pecks all over my face.

    I was still in awe of how those spiteful lips of his could provide so much warmth and empathy.

    His kisses were like those you give a lover you haven¡¯t seen for ages. He nted pecks all over my face like he cared deeply for me.

    I was stunned by his sudden nice gesture. One who walked in on both of us would almost think we are lovers.

    But I know better than to trust Leonardo and fall for his sudden affection towards my sickly state.

    He hasn¡¯t inflicted any thing other than pain in my life.

    I am in this fucking condition because of him in the first ce.

    Someone who didn¡¯t bat an eyelid before separating me from my sister and my life, neither did he flinch on seeing chase being brutally beaten up like he was a criminal yet suddenly I¡¯m sick and he tries to y the good guy. I will not fall for his tricks.

    I felt my blood boiling with fury as I reminisced about everything Leonardo had put me through up until now.

    He bought me like amodity, whipped my body because I wouldn¡¯t eat with him, barred me from leaving the mansion and almost killed chase because he felt entitled to possess me as his woman.

    Shivers ran down my spine as I recalled the day he whipped me like a ve. I suddenly found myself shivering and I shook my head to discard the gloomy memory.

    If Leonardo thinks he can suddenly turn up as the good guy in my life because he called in doctors to take care of me then he is definitely wrong.

    I hate him so much.

    I found my eyes being choked up with tears and quickly wiped it away with the back palms.

    I won¡¯t cry¡­ especially not for that beast of a man.

    An unexpected knock on the door snapped me out of my reverie.

    ¡°Ce in¡± my pale voice croaked.

    The door was pushed open slowly and the elderly figure of Maya stepped inside.

    I sucked in breath immediately and I felt my breathing clogged in my lungs.

    I didn¡¯t set my eyes on Maya again after chase¡¯s incident and the way sheshed out on me.

    The hurt, pain and grief in her eyes on seeing her dear grandson almost beaten to death by the one whom she raised was clearly visible.

    It shattered my heart, breaking it into smithereens and crushing it into dust. If only she had given me a chance to exin myself.

    But what exactly would I tell her?

    After her painful retort at me, I never set my eyes on her again. Infact I felt more guilty than ever and I eagerly wished to just vanish into oblivion.

    It felt like my appearance into any body¡¯s life brings them nothing but misery and pain. I felt like the most unfortunate being on earth.

    Now seeing Maya again standing right before me got me stuperfied and lost for words. What would I tell her?This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    Maya took ponderous steps towards my bed. On reaching my bed I moved my legs aside, giving her the space she needed.

    An awful silence enveloped the atmosphere as we both stared at each other. I gripped on to the sheets of my bed, my hands tightly squeezing them to calm down my frightened nerves.

    My mind raced through a million thoughts on what she would say to me.

    Maya suddenly held on to my hand softly. I parted my lips slightly and stared down at my hand and hers.

    ¡°Maya¡±I whispered facing her immedately. She offered me her warm soothing smile and I could feel the tension within me reducing so alps my hold on the bed sheets lessening.

    ¡°How are you Crystal?¡± She asked underneath her breath.

    I nodded at her, shing her a faint smile. ¡°I¡¯m ok¡±i mumbled.

    ¡°Though I still feel weak¡±I added. Truthfully I did feel weak and pale but atleastpared to yesterday, I am much better.

    My head wasn¡¯t throbbing alot neither was my throat aching.

    Yesterday my skin felt like it was burning and I was in such an excruciating pain but today it had lessened.

    I peaked down at my hands that were now tattooed with intravenous injections. They looked so bony and frail.

    A deep sigh escaped my acidic throat and I stared back at Maya.

    ¡°Maya¡±I began.

    She nodded at me. That was the signal I needed to go on.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡±I apologised in one breath.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what happened to chase. It is all my fault. I didn¡¯t mean for any of it to happen believe me. I cried so hard when I watched chase being beaten up. Up till now the thought still haunts my memories Maya. I truly never¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine Crystal¡±Maya quickly butted in, cutting me off and stopping my rambling.

    I stared at her with pleading eyes and she gently brought her fingers to careress my cheeks.

    ¡°Crystal I understand ok. I¡¯m sorry for alsoshing out at you like that. I knew deep down it wasn¡¯t your fault¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologise Maya¡±I replied.

    A smile broke on her lips.

    ¡°How is chase doing?¡± I asked nervously.

    ¡°Well¡±she began with an exhale.

    ¡°He is recuperating just fine Crystal¡±

    I let out a breath I didn¡¯t even know I was holding. I felt ted on knowing that chase was doing just fine.

    Another question shot into my mind. I gulped hard and nervously shifted on the bed. ¡°I-is he umm.. angry with me?¡±I asked in a whisper

    I stared wide eyed at her, my heart beating suddenly fast eager to hear her response.

    ¡°He isn¡¯t to be honest. He just wished you had told him earlier that Leonardo was interested in you¡±Maya replied with a shake of her head.

    I let out a breath of relief once more on hearing that but then I remembered Leonardo once again.

    That name had be a nightmare in my life.

    I was tempted to ask where he was but I shook of the feeling.

    I straightened my spine and sat up straight. ¡°Thank you maya¡±

    ¡°I just want to see you recover ok¡±maya replied with doting eyes.

    I gave her a genuine smile. ¡°I have to freshen up now¡±I announced.

    Maya nodded and stood up from the bed. She stretched out her hands at me and I grasped on to them as she lifted me to my feet.

    Once again, the weight of my body on my feet felt like a dumbbell and I almost fell but Maya held on to me, supporting me.

    She guided my tottering feet towards the shower and watched me enter

    ¡°Oh Crystal¡±she called out from the outside having stepped out of the bathroom.

    ¡°Yes Maya¡±I replied.

    ¡°Leonardo will bring you breakfast ok¡±

    My eyes widened and my breathing got hitched.

    ¡°O-ok¡± was what I could stutter out.

    I heard her feet walk away and the door close behind her.

    I was trying so hard not to think of Leonardo and here I am being informed that he was going to bring me breakfast.

    What sort of the game is he trying to y with me?

    Well, whatever it is, I know I definitely won¡¯t fall for it.

 Chapter 22

    CRYSTAL

    My hands iled around on the bed, wandering aimlessly as I slowly drew in deep breaths to calm my stormy nerves that were causing wreckage in my mind.

    After Maya informed me that Leonardo would be the one to serve me breakfast, I had all the hairs in my body standing so rigid.

    The more I thought of seeing Leonardo again, the more it sent shivers like cold slithers down my spine even though I was having a hot shower.

    It gave me frightening goosebumps and I had to remind myself to breathe every now and then.

    I stared at the white intricate design ceiling of my room with my heart beating so erratic and my palms bing sweaty.

    Leonardo had seeded in making me always shudder by just the very mention of his name. I had never been so terrified of anyone the way I was of Leonardo.

    He was heartless and selfish, not caring who he hurt as long as he got his way.

    I hadn¡¯t been here for up to a year yet his attitude towards me was nothing to write home about. I truly wondered how his workers and most importantly Maya handled his domineering attitude.

    I wonder when I will finally get my freedom. I yearn to see the day Leonardo will finally set me free. I¡¯ll go far away from this mansion and most importantly from him.

    A rapid knock on the door cut through my soliloquy and I nced at the door, knowing fully well who it was.

    Dark, long raven locks dangling across his nape with steel cold blue eyes, colder than ciers, met with my mortified eyes.

    Dressed in navy blue track pants and a white hoodie, Leonardo stepped inside, a tray of food in his hands.

    I had longing eyes as I took in his appearance. This was the first time I was seeing Leonardo dressed so casually.

    He seldom dressed this way and was always on suits, ties and ck tuxedos.

    He approached my bed and ced the tray of food on the vanity table, his eyes locked with mine as we gazed at each other.

    He jutted with his chin for me to shift for him on the bed. Not wanting to invoke his wrath, I did as I was told and moved myself giving him a measurable amount of space in the bed.

    He picked up the tray and sat next to me. His eyes scanned my trepadised state and he closed in the distance between us in the bed by shifting even closer towards me, cing the tray on his thighs.

    I gulped and swollowed my nerves, trying to stop the jitters from spreading in my body.

    ¡°Good morning Crystal. How are you feeling now?¡±He softly asked with concern written over his face.

    God. That freaking nice tone again!

    What was he trying to prove to me? That he cared for me or what?

    I felt my blood boil and the temperature in the room seem to rise with my nerves.

    I blinked in an instant in a bid to calm myself down and I gave a nervous smile. ¡°I feel ok¡±I replied abruptly.

    He gave me quizzical brows. ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    I ignored his question and my eyes scrutinised the tray of food he he had on his thighs. It was heavily packed lik yesterday¡¯s.

    Chicken, pancakes, cheese, bacon, sausages, eggs and hot chocte tea with it steam filling the entire room decorated therge spherical tray.

    Ruthless he was but he sure did know how to present a breakfast in bed.

    My eyes snapped to meet his and I immedately caught him staring at me with those blue eyes hooded in desire.

    ¡°Are all these for me?¡±I asked with a hiked brow.

    He nodded in reply. ¡°Yes eat up. The doctors will be here soon to administer your drugs ok¡±

    He was acting so genuinely concerned. I felt like seriously pping him hard across the face. What was the need for this farcade show of concern?

    I suppressed my raging feelings to hit him hard across the face and focused my eyes on the food even yet I could still feel his hot gaze on me.

    I stretched my hand about to grip on to the cutleries but his hand swiftly lifted the fork and knife.    Catching me off guard, I stared a him in awe and watched him cut part of the pancakes and stuffing in into the fork.

    My eyes trailed with his movements , watching him raise the fork up to meet my mouth.

    ¡°Take¡±he demanded.

    I subconsciously parted my lips and took bites out of the pancakes stuffed in the fork.

    ¡°Eat it whole gattina¡± hemanded.

    I hearken to his instructions and took the whole pancake from the fork.

    ¡°Good girl¡±he smirked.

    Was this going to be a ritual for both of us now? Him always feeding me?

    I would have been more calm if someone else was doing this but with  Leonardo I can¡¯t seem to calm my nerves.

    It was saddening how even his supposed good sides got me scared to the bones.

    I allowed Leonardo feed me in silence and didn¡¯t utter any word.

    At some point I began coughing when I almost choked on a bacon.

    Leonardo quickly poured a ss of the chocte tea and I sculled it down at once.

    Wiping my lips with a tissue, he gave me doting stares.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    ¡°Are you ok?¡±he asked.

    I pushed his hands away, having been fed up with his farcade care at this point.

    ¡°What do you want Leonardo?¡±I retorted back in reply.

    Leonardo had his brows wrinkled at me. ¡± What do you mean Crystal?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t dare act confused! What the hell do you want from me? Why are you suddenly acting so concerned towards me!? What do you stand to gain by acting up and having two face!?¡± I spat carelessly not caring the slightest about the repercussions of my words.

    He leaned in closer to my ear making me shudder and I moved my face backwards a little.

    ¡°I am a lot of things but I am not two faced¡±he huskily replied, his hot breath fanning my ear and lingering on my neck.

    I gasped. ¡°You are definitely a lot of things. You are selfish, ruthless, wicked, rude, overbearing and dominating, always wanting things to go your own way. I hate you I swear. After taking everything away from me you want to start acting all concerned towards me? Drop the act Leonardo!¡±I persisted further, daring to raise my voice and taunting him.

    Leonardo looked unfazed at my utterances. I stared at him, anger dancing in my eyes and my chest heaving continuously.

    I suddenly hissed in pain and held on to the back of my head as I felt a sudden pang of pain throb.

    ¡°Crystal¡±Leonardo called out some what hyper, stretching out his hand to grasp hold of my chin.

    I instinctively moved my chin away and shot him a hard re.

    ¡°Fuck it¡± I heard Leonardo cursing under his breath.

    Before I could even process what was going on, Leonardo pulled me closer to himself in sort of an embrace.

    His spicy scent filled my nostrils and his body felt so warm. I felt so tiny as he hauled me against his chest.

    ¡°I care about you Crystal. That¡¯s the truth. I am not being two faced¡±he silently whispered.

    I felt tears pool around my eyes. I fought the urge to cry but my body betrayed me as a traitorous tear slipped down my cheeks, followed by another.

    I am sure Leonardo must have felt the wet tear stains on his hoodie but he didn¡¯t say a word about it or asked me why I was sobbing.

    Probably he knew the reason.

    This was strange. He didn¡¯t hold on to me with an iron fist this time. It felt so tender. He was being so gentle like I was a fragile equipment that could break at any time.

    Once again I felt myself rxing in his hold.

 Chapter 23

    CRYSTAL

    After my partial emotional break down disy, I saw a different new side to Leonardo.

    I am seriously still finding it hard to believe that I actually surrendered myself to his embrace. He felt so warm and I felt so little as his huge body enveloped mine in a warm hug.

    He was actually being more human and caring which was totally shocking for a man of his attitude.

    I expected mysh out to make him reveal why he was being so kind to me but instead it showed me a totally calm and cid side to Leonardo Constanzo.

    Several times I would ask myself within me if I were dreaming as Leonardoforted my tensed nerves.

    I know that before whenever I did try to raise my voice at him, it would always end up in a punishment from Leonardo.

    But now¨Ctoday¨C he hugged me. He really hugged me like he cared for me.

    I struggled to get that off my mind but it stayed filtered through my thoughts.

    I engaged in a little t¨ºt¨º-¨¤-t¨ºt¨º with Leonardo afterwards and I actually discovered some things about him.

    For one, I learnt he always slept with a gun and he would never go any where without it. I cringed knowing how dangerous he was.

    I totally forgot that this man ran a mafia and was a crime boss.

    I did more of the talking whilst he just nodded his head. It was more of a question and answer session as I was trying to decipher who exactly was Leonardo Constanzo.

    Though never letting go of his uncanny mask, I was beginning to see little signs of human nature in him.

    He hated avocados and he didn¡¯t like to talk alot. I ended up pinching in one or two stories about my life whilst he just listened with rapt attention.

    It was evening. The few thin strips of cloud in the horizon turned shimmering gold and pink as the sun set over the mansion.

    I had spent my entire day in the room as usual. But Leonardo strangely stayed with me. He watched me eat, engaged in a t¨ºt¨º-¨¤-t¨ºt¨º, lulled me to siesta and by the time I woke, my lunch was already served.

    The doctors were on time to check on me and administer my drugs. Like me, they probably didn¡¯t want to incure Leonardo¡¯s wrath.

    He would always bark at them if he noticed my face being disconcerted as I was receiving my daily dose of intravenous injections.

    They would freeze on the spot, their rigid eyes darting to the ground the moment Leonardo barked orders at them, breathing fire and breamstone on them.

    At some point, I felt sorry for the trepadised doctors observing how frightened they would be whenever Leonardo noticed my features contorted in pain so I did my best to mask the pain I would feel as I recieved my injections.

    After the doctors left, Leonardo called a maid who had my bath prepared after which we both had dinner in my room.

    He had his arm wrapped around my shoulder with my petite figure hauled against hisrge frame.

    He was reading me one of the books I did not get the chance toplete before I got hit by this dreadful illness.

    It was tittled ¡®Faceless¡¯ by Amma Darko, a Ghanaian novel.

    I really loved the novel. It portrayed the phenomenon of the street child especially females who were left to fend for themselves in a world dominated by greedy, irresponsible and cruel men in their lives.

    Reading the story kind off reminded me of my own father. Never actaully contributing to the upkeep of the family, he was an alcoholic and a chronic gambler.

    Deposing all the workload on my poor mum, I watched my mother painstakingly struggle to put food on the table whilst my greedy father swindled away her money on womanizing and gambling.

    Whenever I thought of my childhood, I got so emotional. While other children of my age had nice and enthralling memories, mine was filled with nothing but pain, grief and sorrow.

    Mother would work her ass out to take care of myself, Mabel and our greedy father yet he wouldn¡¯t have the decency to live up to his responsibility as the man of the house.

    On many asions, I witnessed him hitting my mother. Heaven knew I had tried calling 911 countless times but I was always stopped by my mother. Sheter got me to promise her that I¡¯ll never call the cops on my father.

    I was dumb struck. So many nights, I would wonder why my mother was still habiting with my irresponsible and non chant  father.

    Could it be because of I and Mabel? Was she scared of how she would take care of us by ourselves?¨CI would ask myself.

    But it felt absurd because even though she still stayed with my dad, she was the one taking care of the family. She was the breadwinner, she was the wife and she was the husband. My father was just another living being in our house. The only tittle I saw fit to address him as was as my mother¡¯s ¡®partner¡¯.

    Questions like those rummaged my mind every fucking time, as I sought answers to why my mother was willing to endure my father¡¯s abuses.

    It wasnt until I gathered up courage to go ask her the reason she stuck by my father.

    Her answer got me weak in the knees. With tears in her eyes, she narrated her life with my father.

    It turned out that my father was never like this from the beginning.

    Mum described him as being the perfect man for her. He was kind, caring, loving and hard-working.

    Life was, well sunny for them at the start. But everything came dwindling  down when my dad¡¯s business crashed.

    ording to my mother, my dad¡¯s supermarket caught aze as a result of an electrical failure. He lost everything.

    To top it off his savings got ripped off  from him when he engaged in a business with one of his supposed friend whoter on duped him of everything. Several times my dad triedmiting suicide but was stopped by my mum.

    She believed and hoped for a better future but my dad ording to her had lost all will to live.

    He became uncaring and unappreciative towards my mum, not contributing a dime or more support to the upkeep and wellbeing of his family.

    He resorted to gambling and somehow managed to get himself in debt to Leonardo before his demise with my mother in a car crash.

    Reminiscing about those gloomy memories brought tears to my eyes.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    I sniffed my nose and fought the tears from spilling.

    Life was so hard on I and Mabel. We moved to New York trying to get away from our depressing childhood but the past still haunted our present which was how I found myself here.

    ¡°Crystal what is wrong?¡±Leonardo asked which pulled me out of my mncholic thoughts.

    I had totally forgot he was in my room with me. Seemed like I zoned him out.

    I could barely remember what he read.

    ¡°Nothing¡±I replied with a shake of my head.

    He gave me a quizzical brow. ¡°I can read you like an open book. Spill¡±

    ¡°I said nothing!¡±I snapped back which I immedately regretted afterwards.

    I shouldn¡¯t have done that. He had been calm with me and now probably he was going to change back to giving me his beastly attitude.

    I shook like a leaf as his blue cold ciers stared at me, the white rays of the moon shining through the curtains and falling on his sharp profile making his eyes shimmer and look so devilish.

    He dropped the book by the bedstand, our eyes not leaving each other.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Crystal?¡±he asked one more time.

    I let out a breath I didn¡¯t know I was even holding. I expected him to shout at me but he somehow was calm.

    I inhaled sharply. ¡°I was just thinking of my dad and mum¡±

    ¡°Oh Travis price¡±he acknowledged.

    Wow. He remembered his name.

    ¡°Yes¡±I replied with a nod.

    ¡°Why were you thinking of your dad?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Well this book reminded me of him. It is a book that gives detailed narration of the plights of females in broken homes. And my home was broken¡±I answered, my tension reducing.

    Leonardo nodded with a hum. ¡°Atleast your dad and mum never seperated did they?¡±

    I shook my head.

    Even with dad¡¯s unbearable attitude, mum never left him and dad well he never did leave home withouting back.

    ¡°No actually¡±

    He gave a false chuckle.

    Did his mum and dad seperate?

    Come to think of it, Maya never spoke about his parents and Leonardo never did so too.

    I was tempted to ask but I felt frightened and timid.

    Leonardo browsed my facial expression. ¡°I know you want to ask Crystal¡±he said as if reading my thoughts.

    I gulped and nodded at his statement.

    ¡°My mum left my dad. They divorced. Apparently she left with her lover. Later on my dad had to bring in Maya to take care of me. Maya brought up I and chase in this mansion. My dad rarely had my time. So who I ever knew as a parent was Maya and is still Maya¡±

    I stared at him with longing eyes. This was probably the only personal information about himself Leonardo had voiced out to me.

    Was that why he grew up to be so cold? Did his childhood really traumatise him this much?

    ¡°Crystal well that was in the past¡±He added with a gruff as if the very thought of his childhood brought him vexation.

    I could only nod.

    I watched him pick up the novel. ncing at me and back at the novel, he began reading without hesitation.

    I watched him read, a million thoughts running in my mind.

    Probably I and Leonardo were not as different as I thought.

 Chapter 24

    CRYSTAL

    That tiny ray of hope in a bleak situation can prove to be very fortunate. Watching your world crumble before your very eyes and sacrificing everything including your freedom to see your loved ones happy is probably one of the most painful decisions you can make.

    Hope they say is a fire in our hearts.

    It¡¯s an anchor that holds us firm. It¡¯s a light that shines like the sun if you keep it alive in your heart with the firm belief of a better future ahead.

    I feel my hope of leaving this mansion renewed and rejuvenate following the talk I had with  Leonardo yesterday night and also seeing his now calmer and tranquil side.

    He was able to tell me a tip of the iceberg concerning his childhood which probably meant he was beginning to feel open with me.

    Maya did tell me that Leonardo was a very secretive person. One could hardly guess what was going on in that malicious mind of his and he hardly talked about his childhood and parent but yesterday he gave me a glimpse of it.

    That was progress. If he continued to open up to me and let down his imprable walls of feeling human emotions then probably one day, he might let me go.

    Thinking of that brought beaming smiles to my face as I stepped out from the shower.

    Maya told me Leonardo would want me to eat in the dinning table with him.

    Truth be told, over this past few days of my illness, I had be less scared of him. Before I would get a fright on hearing he wanted to eat with me but now I felt nothing of that sort. Well at least it had reduced to a great extent.

    I quickly put on a floral gown apanied with some pink t shoes. I squirted a vani scented perfume over myself before smearing a cherry lip gloss on my lips.

    Yes I was still ill but atleast I could look healthy and filled with life.

    I let down my hair gracefully when a  knock on my door was heard.

    ¡°Come in¡± I replied to whoever it was.

    Was it Maya?

    Locking his eyes with mine, Leonardo¡¯s tall frame entered my room.

    He was dressed in a blue rip jean and a grey sweater.

    His long hair was let to cascade down. He looked pretty handsomee to think of it.

    ¡°You like what you see?¡±Leonardo asked teasingly noticing I was gawking at him.

    I gulped and blinked severally. My face went red and it felt flush of its colours. I tried hiding my embarrassment and bit my bottom lip. ¡°Don¡¯t tter yourself¡± I heard myself speak out in my defence.

    Leonardo chuckled and took predatorial steps towards me. He gazed down at me whilst I adverted my eyes from his tempting stare.

    He ced a finger underneath my chin and raised it to face his. Once again I felt the colours of my cheek drained as we locked gaze with each other.

    ¡°You look good¡±he whispered, his voice caressing me.

    ¡°Thank you¡± I replied to what seemed like the onlypliment I had gotten so far throught out my stay here with Leonardo.

    ¡°Shall we go get breakfast?¡±He requested with a hiked brow.

    I nodded and attempted to walk out but in an instant, Leonardo scooped me up bridal style to my utmost surprise.

    My face turned beetroot red on impact. He scooped me up like I was a leaf.

    ¡°W-what are y-you doing?¡±I asked stuttering.

    I had various emotions racing through me currently.

    Leonardo began walking out the door with me in his hands.

    ¡°I am carrying you can¡¯t you see that?¡±He replied cheekily.

    ¡°Of course I can. Why are you doing that?¡±I retorted back, my hands ced on his broad chest.

    He gave a shrug of his shoulders. ¡°You are still ill. Now keep quiet¡±he demanded authoritatively.

    Even in his calm state, he spoke with the authority that one wouldn¡¯t dare go against.

    I surrendered to his demand and allowed him carry me downstairs, not like I even had a choice to refuse him from carrying me.

    My eyes roved around, scrutinizing every corner of the house as we approached the dinning table.

    A banquet of breakfast had been prepared already. Different delicacies were spread across the dinning table creating a wonderful odour frenzy of the aroma various dishes syncing together and infusing in the atmosphere.

    Leonardo gently ced me on one of the ck leather chairs of the dinning table and sat next to me.

    Wow. It felt like forever since Ist stepped my feets downstairs. My illness had me staying upstairs all through. The air downstairs felt warm, soothing my pale skin.

    The living room was bustling with life and activities with various workers attending to their different duties.

    ¡°Open up¡±Leonardo ordered bringing a spoon filled with sd to my mouth.

    I hearken to his request and allowed him feed me.

    It had became the normal tradition between both of us ever since I got ill.

    Our dinner was observed in silence but it wasn¡¯t the unsettling and grave type of silence.

    It was peaceful andforting.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    Leonardo kept on feeding me till I was absolutely full to the brim.

    ¡°Eat just thisst spoon¡± he requested.

    I shook my head with a frown.

    I felt like I might explode if I tasted another grain of food.

    ¡°Eat it Crystal¡±he sharply demanded.

    I flinched and in a sh,  Iplied with his directive.

    ¡°Good kitten¡±he smirked watching me chew the food.

    ¡°Um sir. The doctors are here¡±a maid announced nervouslying over to I and Leonardo.

    I breathed a sigh of relief. Atleast now I know Leonardo would not force me to eat more again.

    Leonardo dismissed her with a wave of his hand. I watched her scurry away.

    Leonardo assisted me, bringing me to my rickety feet.

    Once again, he carried me up bridal style.

    ¡°Leonardo I can walk. Drop me down¡±I chided.

    ¡°Not a chance¡± he huffed.

    What was this new side of Leonardo I was witnessing?

    He took me to a sofa and gently ced me on it.

    As if on cue, the doctors came in.

    ¡°Great. Now you two do your job¡±Leonardomanded at once.

    Wow. He was still very much dominating.

    They need not to be told neither did they spare a second earlier.

    My intravenous injections were pulled out and they both stared at my facial expression, making sure I didn¡¯t wince.

    A smile wore on their faces after that had inspected my state.

    ¡°She¡¯s recovering very fast. Keeping her in your home for treatment was a good idea after all¡±

    Leonardo had his arm folded across his chest.

    ¡°Of course I was right¡±Leonardo cockily replied.

    ¡°Just make sure you avoid taking cold showers please and do take your drugs¡±another doctor advised.

    ¡°She will. I¡¯ll make sure of that¡± Leonardo replied, giving me cursory nces.

    I watched the doctors go. I felt happy knowing that I was recovering and it seemed Leonardo yed a very big role in making sure of that.

    Could he be really sincere when he told me he cared about me?

    Leonardo picked me up once more.

    Guess I had to get use to this.

    He walked out the door with me in his arms leaving me confused.

    Where we going?

    ¡°Leonardo where are we going?¡±

    ¡°You will see¡±came his abrupt reply as we approached one of the numerous parked cars littered around his mansion.

    * * * * * *

    Crystal watched the waves bang across the rocks causing a vociferous thud. The salty air pped across his cheeks and the wind whipped her hair in various directions.

    Crystal tucked her hair by the side of her ear and focused on the enthralling beauty of the beach.

    Everything felt so serene and surreal to her. Leonardo literally brought her to the beach.

    She couldn¡¯t remember thest time she came to the beach.

    She hardly had time for recreational activities.

    ¡°Walk with me shall you?¡±Leonardo requested which seemed more like amand as he already stood up from the sandy shores.

    He stretched forward his hand towards Crystal and she grasped on to it,ing to her feet.

    The ground felt warm and cold altogether underneath Crystal feet as she walked hand in hand with Leonardo.

    ¡°Did your goons have to follow us?¡±Crystal asked, whipping her face back and catching sight of Leonardo¡¯s men walking behind them.

    ¡°For protection Crystal¡±he replied.

    ¡°Why are you being nice to me?¡±Crystal dared to ask.

    She clearly needed to know the reason once again. Thest time she asked, he didn¡¯t give her a clear reason and the atmosphere felt very tensed.

    Now was probably the best time to ask.

    ¡°Tell me why?¡±Crystal persisted further.

    Leonardo tilted his head to her side. ¡°Tell me. why do you think I am being nice to you?¡±

    ¡°Um I don¡¯t know. You feel guilty or something¡±Crystal replied with sunken shoulders.

    Leonardo chortled. ¡°For beating up chase and making you fall sick? Well chase is like a brother to me so I do feel bad about that but I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to do away with anybody that tries to take you away from me¡±he gravelly replied.

    Crystal gasped immedately.

    ¡°Why would you do that?¡±she queried at once, halting in her steps.

    Leonardo stopped walking too and faced her. ¡°Because you are mine Crystal¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand who gave you the right to im me to be honest¡±Crystal snapped back.

    Leonardoughed. ¡°Try as much as you can to run away from it but that¡¯s the truth. You will always be mine. You will learn to ept it¡±

    Leonardo began walking ahead of Crystal who stood dazed.

    ¡°And what if I don¡¯t ept it huh?¡±Crystal asked making him stop once more in his tracks.

    ¡°You will kitten. You will¡±Leonardo replied confidently without turning his back to face her.

    ¡°You are a freak Leonardo¡±Crystal scoffed, quickening her feet to catch up to his strides.

    ¡°Are you just knowing that?¡±Leonardo cockily replied with a satisfied smirk.

    His answer still got her fazed and stuperfied. He sounded so confident of himself.

    Well only time would tell if she would ept to be his or not.

 Chapter 25

    CRYSTAL

    I yawnedzily, pinching my eyes shut and flying it back open once I had been aroused from my deep slumber.

    My eyes peaked at the open windows that had curtains swaying over them in the rhythm of the cool early morning wind.

    I stood on my wobbly feet and took tottering steps to one of the windows. The cold wind was ever so soothing on my skin, tenderly caressing it.

    I strained my neck and noticed the pond some metres away.

    Wow I never did know I could see the pond from my windows.

    The sun and the moon were clearly visible in the early morning sky.

    I watched the palm trees sway to the gentle breeze of the warm sun.

    The entirendscape was basking in the warm glow of the sun.

    I exhaled slowly and my minds brought back shes of I and Leonardo¡¯s walk in the beach.

    Strangely, it was nice. It was not how I had totally thought it would turn out. Leonardo¡¯s attitude was evolving these days.

    He was more calm and less angrier.

    He never snapped back at me. He always looked after my needs and made me feel¨Cwell anything close to being cared for.

    Whenever I had tried to understand why he was being so nice to me, it left me more puzzled.

    Was it because I was Ill?

    Well the doctor said I was recovering now so I was expecting him to go back to his normal overbearing, selfish attitude anytime soon.

    After all good things hardly stayed in my life. I truly won¡¯t be surprised if he began acting up towards me again.

    I can not trust him fully. Hell not even partially!

    He hasn¡¯t earned my trust yet and I don¡¯t want to buy his show of kindness.

    Life had taught me on countless asions not to expect too much from other people to avoid disappointments and pain and Leonardo was not an exception to that.

    He had caused me so much pain and it will take time to actually overlook that.

    I inhaled once more and shuffled my feets to the shower to freshen up.

    My shower was hot as expected¨Cdoctor¡¯s advice. It really did justice in warming my skin and distracting my never ending thoughts from Leonardo.

    I could only focus on the thin droplets of water hitting my bare skin.

    I stepped out from the bathroom with just a towel wrapping around my petite body. I took my hair dryer to dry off the water in my wet hair beforebing it downwards.

    I wanted to pack it to a pony tail but something clicked in my mind.

    Leonardo didn¡¯t like my hair packed. I noticed that. He liked running his hands down my hair during the few days I was caged up in this room.

    I decided to leave my hair cascading over my shoulders. Not like I cared about his preferences but I truly didn¡¯t want to incure his wrath.

    My stomach grumbled snapping  me out of the gloomy past and into the present.

    I was hungry.

    I had alreadyid down clothes on the bed. I slipped on my panties and applied a lotion to my body.

    It was part of those expensives body gifts Leonardo had gotten for me from one of his trips to Australia.

    Come to think of it, I never actually saw Leonardo leave for work anymore ever since I fell ill.

    Could it be that he put his job aside to cater for me?

    What the fuck. I bit my bottom lip. I felt guilty and same time confused.

    Guilty because I know for one he was a busy man and him keeping his work aside for my sake would onlypile more work duties on him.

    I felt confused because what the hell is Leonardo doing? Why is he sacrificing for me?

    I shook my head and continued dressing up, my grumbling stomach raging within me.

    I put on a spaghetti hand floral gown apanied by some palm slippers. I needed to feel light and airily. I smeared some lip gloss on my lips and squirted myself a perfume.

    I twisted the door knob, opening the door and stepping outside.

    My heart suddenly began palpitating as I wandered through the hallways.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    Ever since Leonardo told me yesterday that I would ept to be his, I had been having mixed feelings. What did he mean by that?

    Would he point a gun at my head and force me to wed him?

    Well it wasn¡¯t something he couldn¡¯t do. Leonardo was fully capable of that.

    God. What is Leonardo doing to my thoughts.

    I approached the stair case and walked downstairs. My palm shoes clicked against the tiled floor causing me to scrunch my face.

    I didn¡¯t like the sound.

    My eyes scrutinised the imperial living room and it whipped to the dinning room once I had gotten downstairs.

    Where the hell was Leonardo?

    Had he gone to work? Wow. Here I was thinking he sacrificed work for me and he must have probably gone back to work.

    I saw Maya approaching from the kitchen and gave her a smile ¡°Maya good morning¡±I greeted

    She returned back my smile with a smile of her own.

    ¡°Goodmorning dear how was your night?¡±

    ¡°Fine Maya how are you doing?¡±I asked feeling a little ted suddenly.

    She gave me a nod. ¡°I am fine Crystal. How is your body? I hope you are recovering just fine? Leonardo really made sure to provide expert doctors under the best conditions and I truly hope all that is paying off¡±

    Iughed mildly. ¡°Of course it is Maya. I am recovering just fine¡±

    It was nice knowing she cared for me this much even after what transpired between I, chase and Leonardo.

    My eyes strained about, searching for that one man, that one individual that was giving me puzzled thoughts.

    ¡°Oh are you looking for Leonardo?¡±Maya asked  with a brow raised at me making me snap my eyes to face hers.

    I felt slightly embarrassed noticing she was able to read my thoughts.

    I nodded shyly.

    ¡°He is in the kitchen dear¡±she pointed her index finger at the direction of the kitchen.

    I mouthed her a ¡°thank you¡± and watched her go away.

    Such a lovely woman. She truly reminded me of my mother.

    I quickly cleaned the few tiny tear drops that slipped past my eyelids and made my way to the kitchen.

    I entered the broad kitchen and spotted Leonardo whisking some eggs in a bowl. His back was faced at me.

    About five chefs were littered all around the kitchen, each busy with breakfast preparation and only giving me a slight nod of their head to acknowledge my presence.

    As if sensing my arrival in the kitchen, Leonardo turned his face to meet mine. His hair was kind off messy, covering some parts of his face.

    With sharp jawline, high cheek bones, bright blue eyes not cold like before, perfect amount of brows and having a shade of peach lips; Leonardo really looked handsome.

    I cringed knowing I was observing his facial features.

    ¡°Crystal how are you and how was your night?¡±He asked rather too friendly.

    ¡°I am fine and my night was ok. What about yours? Leonardo are you making breakfast?¡±I asked trying to decipher what he was doing.

    He nodded and snatched the bowl of whisked eggs from the kitchen counter in a fluid motion before showing it to me.

    ¡°I¡¯m preparing frittata. It¡¯s an Italian dish simr to omelette¡± Leonardo replied bringing the bowl in full view to my curious eyes.

    ¡°Why are you preparing breakfast?¡±I asked once more.

    He gave a shrug of his shoulders. ¡°In as much as I don¡¯t like it, I don¡¯t want you to fall sick because you hate me. So I want to make you feel asfortable as ever¡±

    I felt speechless at his utterance.

    I had always told him I hated him but him saying it made me feel¨Ci don¡¯t know¡­ probably weird.

    Heughed it off and his eyes scanned me from up to down.

    ¡°You look beautiful as usual. Your outfit is perfect for where I¡¯m taking you to¡±

    I gave him curious brows. ¡°Where is that?¡±

    I rubbed my elbow with my right hand as I suddenly felt self conscious under his gaze, my eyes darting to the ground.

    ¡°You shall see¡±Leonardo replied evasively, turning his eyes back to the counter.

    ¡°Go wait for breakfast gattina¡± he instructed.

    I felt overwhelmed by curiosity to know where he was taking me too.

    Well he said I¡¯ll see.

    I retreated out of the kitchen and towards the dining room.

    Minutester, breakfast was served with Leonardo joining me. He fed me as usual even though I protested otherwise and we engaged in our random t¨ºt¨º-¨¤-t¨ºt¨º.

    Once done, I waited for Leonardo to freshen up giving me time to also get ready for wherever he was taking me too. He led me out of the mansion and towards his waiting limousine.

    Inquisitiveness had be the best of me. I shot him questions incessantly on where we were going  but he kept on replying evasively.

    I finally gave up and decided to close my eyes , getting some shut eye and wanting to be awaken when we arrived at our destination.

    ¡°Crystal wake up we are here¡±Leonardo¡¯s voice rang in my ear, arousing me up from my light sleep.

    My jaws dropped and I had goo goo eyes on seeing where we were.

    ¡°No fucking way¡± I gasped.

 Chapter 26

    Crystal felt her eyes widened in amazement, astounded by where Leonardo had brought her too.

    Surprise washed over her face as she stared jaws ajar at the huge scenery before her eyes.

    It was an airport. He brought her to a freaking airport.

    She fed her eyes on the huge aircrafts and her ears twitched to their boisterous noise.

    Watching some nes take off and somending, Crystal had her eyes sparkling with excitement.

    Was he going to show her round the airport?¡ªshe thought to herself.

    Or was he nning on shipping her off to a faraway country like Columbia to be a ve?

    The surprise that had webbed over her face had now beenpletely erased by fear which settled in her features.

    Where was he nning on taking her too?

    Her eyebrows were pulled up together in sudden panic and fear.

    ¡°L-leonardo w-where are you taking me too?¡±Crystal asked in apprehension.

    ¡°Rx Be. You will see¡±he said cooly and walked out of the limousine, Crystal following suit.

    Once down from the limousine, Leonardo ced hisrge hands on Crystal¡¯s back causing her to shiver and giving her multiple goosebumps as they began heading towards the entrance of the airport.

    Two men approached them, one was younger than the other. The older one was ded in Grey suit outfit, putting on what seemed like rmended sses. He had pepper coloured hair and a stubble to match his advanced age.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    The younger man was taller and in Armani suit. His chestnut brown hair was a little messy but it fitted his features well.

    ¡°Delighted to see you once again Mr Constanzo¡± The older man greeted formally with enthusiasm and high spirits.

    The two men offered Leonardo their hands and did same to Crystal.

    Crystal just stared tongue tied.

    Was he really nning on shipping her far away?

    ¡°Your jet awaits you as you had requested¡±The younger man spoke with personification.

    ¡°Good job, thank you Ro and Alfonso¡± Leonardo replied.

    ¡°Right this way¡± the younger man motioned with his hands as they both began leading Crystal and Leonardo into the huge airport that was bustling with activities.

    ¡°No need for security checks as usual¡± he added. Crystal watched the people in the airport move like a tide. Sounds of people chattering and various announcements echoed all around the airport.

    The men walked fairly speedily as if they were in some sort of rush whilst Leonardo walked behind with Crystal, his hand still ced on her back.

    He could have easily walked ahead of her but she knew he was slowing down in pace as a result of her weak strides.

    It took some time before they could get to the runway. Once there, they passed the security, a couple of doors and headed towards a flight of stairs before they finally came out to enter one of those small airport cart like vehicles.

    Everything felt so surreal to Crystal. She still felt very much skeptical about Leonardo bringing her to this airport and his strangely nice behaviour towards her.

    Where the hell was he taking her too? She fervently prayed her suspicions weren¡¯t true and that Leonardo was not nning on flying her off to somewhere far to be a ve to some foreign man.

    ¡°Crystal¡±Leonardo called out.

    Crystal regained herself and realised that Leonardo had already gotten off the cart, his hand reaching for hers.

    She grasped it hesitantly and stepped out. Her jaws droped on seeing the enormous jet that stood right in front of them.

    ¡°Come on Crystal. Do you want to stand in the runway all day?¡±Leonardo rhetorically asked to a gawking Crystal.

    Crystal quickly closed her parted lips and her face got flushed in embarrassment. She hadn¡¯t realise she had her mouth at agape from staring so intensely at the huge aircraft before her eyes.

    ¡± Uh¨Cyeah.. I¡¯ming. But will you tell me where you are taking me to?¡±Crystal asked  once they had begun walking towards the ne¡¯s staircase.

    ¡°Nope. But all you need to know is that I took some days off from work to give you this treatment so you should enjoy it¡±he winked mischievously.

    Crystal gulped. ¡°Hmm okay¡±she replied nervously as they reached the bottom of the ne stairs.

    The interior was as breath taking as she had imagined it¨Cif not more.

    It looked like a living room¨Ca huge expensive living room.

    Golden lights illuminated it coupled with the fact that it had huge spaces in between the seats.

    The walls were coloured coffee brown with in depth white lines forming a pattern. The floor felt so soft underneath her palm slippers.

    She gazed down at it. It was covered in soft wisteria carpet.

    Her eyes then trailed to the left part of the jet that had about eight syrup brown seats, each with setbelt.

    Opposite it was a scarlet red lenthy couch with fluffy pillows to match it.

    The jet also had a mini bar and also  a bed covered perfectly with purple sheets.

    A huge t screen tv was ced at the centre. At the end of the jet stood  a door, which probably led to the toilet and probably a shower¨Cshe wouldn¡¯t be surprised if his jet had one.

    Crystal was at lost for words. Every thing felt too good to be true.

    ¡°Let us seat be¡± Leonardo said to her, taking her by the hand to the lengthy scarlet red couch.

    ¡°Wow this is amazing¡± Crystal breathed out as she felt the ne take off.

    Leonardoughed. ¡°Have you ever been on a ne before? You look so amazed¡±

    Crystal shook her head sadly. ¡°I haven¡¯t. Um¨Cwe¨Cuhm¡­ in my family.. my mum never had enough money to actually afford domestic flights¡± Crystal confessed, her eyes darting to the ground before buckling her seat beat.

    Leonardo noticed the change in her facial expression and bodynguage as his own expression turned softer.

    ¡°Well that¡¯s not something to be shy about. There is a first time for everything¡±Leonardo said with a soft smile which took Crystal aback, her eyes snapping to meet his.

    Leonardo leaned in more into the couch and turned his face to meet Crystal¡¯s.

    ¡°You really did loved your mum yes?¡±Leonardo asked curiously, sounding very interested in hearing Crystal reply even though he clearly knew what the answer would be.

    ¡°I loved her so much. I miss her everyday of my life. She was the perfect description of a hard working and submissive wife¡±Crystal   replied proudly with a broad smile.

    Leonardo had a smile form on his face listening to her sing praises of her mother. Crystal noticed it and hiked brows at him.

    ¡°Have you um seen your mother over the years?¡± Crystal felt tempted to ask.

    After all she did tell him about her own gloomy past.

    He gave a sharp inhale and a slow exhale, widening his legs more and running his hands through his dark hair. ¡°She died some years ago. After she left with her lover¡±

    Crystal gasped. She didn¡¯t know what to say. Leonardo probably must have passed through a lot growing up.

    ¡°And your father? Is¡­ he umm¡±crystal had her voice trailed off not knowing how toplete her question.

    ¡°He is alive¡±Leonardo finished for her. ¡°But not in this country¡±

    ¡°Well let¡¯s just say he retired and had to leave the country for his dear son to take over his dirty job¡±Leonardo mused.

    Crystal was about speaking when a woman approached them both.

    ¡°She must be the air hostess¡± Crystal thought.

    Her pointed heels made soft clicks as she swayed her hips towards them.

    She had a pair of ck transparent tights coupled with a tight ck skirt that was above her knee and matching ck blouse.

    Her blonde hair was left to fall and her face wore a thickyer of makeup.

    ¡°Nice to see you Mr Leonardo¡± She spoke sultrily, fluttering her fully coated eyshes at him and bitting the bottom of her glossy lips.

    Crystal felt slightly insecure noticing how beautiful she was. The hostess paid little attention to Crystal and entirely focused on Leonardo.

    Who wouldn¡¯t? He was like a Greek god.

    ¡°What would you like to drink?¡± She added with a smile, this time throwing Crystal a distasteful look.

    ¡°Whiskey and give her a strawberry drink with ice¡±Leonardo replied, shutting her off immedately.

    She masked her disappointment and put up a stoic expression.

    ¡°Sure. Nice to see you once again¡±she was relentlessly trying to flirt with Leonardo but he paid no heed to her.

    Leonardo gave her a nod rather than reply and Crystal watched her walkway in disappointment, her lips pouting childishly.

    A smug smile appeared on Crystal face.

    Why did she feel rxed knowing Leonardo didn¡¯t pay the hostess any attention.

    Was she feeling jealous?

    ¡°She seems nice¡±Crystal lied tried to mask the fact that she felt insecure of the hostess.

    ¡°She is one of those sluts I took out¡±Leonardo spat carelessly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t call her that. It¡¯s wrong to degrade women by your words and actions. You did that to me several times in the strip club and by calling me a maid in your party¡±Crystal chided making Leonardo give her am apologetic look in his eyes.

    ¡°Besides you took her out? To where?¡± Crystal added curiously.

    Leonardo gave a sly grin. ¡°L¡¯ho scopata¡±

    ¡°I have no clue what you just said¡±Crystal replied unfazed.

    ¡°I fucked her¡±Leonardo replied grinning.

    ¡°I can show you if you want¡±He added huskily, whispering into her ears.

    Crystal felt her face turning red and she let out a short gasp.

    Her cheeks got drained of its colours at Leonardo sensual statement.

    ¡°Stop that¡±she nervously chided, her eyes darting to the window, watching the clouds soar with them.

    Leonardo gave a heartyugh.

    Leonardo was showing off his yfull side. This was definitely going to be a very long flight for both of them.

 Chapter 27

    CRYSTAL

    ¡°What! You did all that just to get a day off from school!?¡±I asked in high pitch, my brows pulled up in total astonishment at Leonardo¡¯s tale.

    He chortled and gave me a sly smirk. ¡°Ofcourse.¡±

    ¡°C¡¯mon don¡¯t act surprised. You know me and you know my character¡± he added sharply.

    I blinked severally, almostughing. Leonardo was a whole box of weird.

    ¡°You burnt your school books and began smoking in ss so as to get suspended! That¡¯s insane¡±I screeched.

    Leonardoughed it off. ¡°I¡¯m insane baby girl. I know¡±

    ¡°Now tell me¡± he requested, pouring himself another ss of whiskey.

    ¡°Did you engage in any sort of mischief while you were in high school?¡±

    I shook my head, pouting my lips a little. My eyes locked with his and I almost giggled at his quirky look.

    ¡°I was an obedient student. Teachers pet you might even say¡± I chirped.

    ¡°Unlike some people I know that almost made their teachers run mad¡±I taunted Leonardo.

    He ruffled up my hair which made me jerk in my seat.

    ¡°Leonardo now my hair is scattered¡±I whined trying tob down the bed nest Leonardo had turned my hair into with my hands.

    Leonardo gave a smug smile. ¡°Good for you¡±

    I gasped shockingly. ¡°You are a beast¡±

    I stared at his unfazed facial expression which made me chuckle.

    I know I usually called him a beast but this time it was more of teasing than actually meaning it.

    ¡°Crystal if I perhaps am a beast then what are you?¡±Leonardo suddenly asked sounding serious.

    I got thrown aback and for a moment I actually felt he was angry by my remark.

    ¡°Well, i-i am beauty¡±I replied trying to sound brave.

    He gave me a cocky brow and that was when I realised he was also teasing me.

    ¡°Yes. I am beauty and you are a beast¡±I persisted sounding more brave now.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±he asked, his tone carrying hints of confusion as he adjusted himself in his seat to intensely stare at me.

    ¡°Beauty and the beast?¡±I questioned.

    He nodded.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know it? It¡¯s a Disney fairy tale¡±I replied.

    Leonardo gave me a shake of his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t watch all those¡±

    I had my mouth parted at his confession. ¡°Are you serious!¡± my shrill voice rang out.

    He nodded with a soft smile. ¡°Do you like the fairy tale?¡±

    This was so absurd. He didn¡¯t watch all these nostalgic Disney fairy tales.

    How was his childhood really like?

    I couldn¡¯t help but wonder.

    ¡°Ofcourse I do. The female protagonist Belle basically reminds me of myself¡±

    He cocked another brow, this time seeming very interested. ¡°Why do you say so?¡±

    ¡°She loves her family so much and she will do any thing for her family. Her only family is her father. She is brave and she looks beyond the superficial qualities of human. That was how she was able to save her father from the beast¡± I exined

    He nodded his head for me to go on.

    ¡°You see the beast was once a charming young prince but he was very proud. As a result of his proud, vain attitude, he was cursed. Him and everyone in his castle. He was turned into a scary, huge, lion like beast¡±

    ¡°Wow. That¡¯s scary. No way out for the curse to be broken?¡±Leonardo asked concerned.

    I observed his facial features. He seemed really interested in knowing the story. His blue eyes shimmered like a child given candy.

    ¡°He was given a rose and when thest petal from the rose falls without him finding true love and getting a true love kiss , then the curse is permanent. The prince knew it was nearly impossible for anyone to love him as a beast. He epted his fate as a beast and became more cruel and cold¡±

    I stoped to stare at Leonardo once again. He was seriously paying rapt attention.

    ¡°What about belle? The heroine?¡±he asked.

    I gave him a soft smile. ¡°As the story progressed, Belle¡¯s father was imprisoned by the beast for trespassing into his castle. So Belle had to go save her father. In exchange for her father¡¯s freedom, the beast demanded that belle stayed with him in his castle. She loved her father so much. She had no other option but to take her father¡¯s ce¡±

    I noticed the look in his eyes. It seemed like a sorry, pitiful, apologetic look. I guess it must have dawned on him that what belle did is what I¡¯m currently doing in exchange for my sister¡¯s safety.

    ¡°She really agreed to live with the beast?¡±he further asked.

    I nodded with a broad smile. ¡°That¡¯s why I love her. Her ability to put others before her. Her life didn¡¯t matter to her when her father¡¯s life got threatened. She beseeched for his life and was willing to take his ce to live with that cold, fearsome beast¡±

    Leonardo seemed stunned but all the same he nodded his head.

    ¡°How was their rtionship like?¡±

    I tilted my head, my eyes squinting slightly. ¡°It started off as  very um¡­ scary and awkward. You would expect her to normally be scared of the beast. But as time went on so did  her stay in his castle. She got to know the real beast¨Cthe one in his heart. She figured out that this cold wall he is putting up isn¡¯t the real him. She got very close to him but their love wasn¡¯t without any hurdles¡±

    ¡°What sort of hurdles?¡±he inquired, taking a sip of his whiskey.

    ¡°A man named Gaston, self centred and selfish incited the vigers to go kill the beast. He was in love with belle¨C well that was what he thought. But he was more in love with himself. The reason he just wanted Belle was for his ego. Belle had rejected him countless times and he couldn¡¯t deal with the rejection so he wanted to get her by hook or by crook. When he learnt of Belle¡¯s stay in the beast castle, he caused an uproar within the vigers to go kill the beast¡±

    Leonardo looked somewhat scared.

    ¡°What happened? Did he seed?¡±He asked hyper, gripping on to my arm.

    ¡°The vigers did attack the beast¡¯s castle and the process of trying to save Belle, the beast was stabbed in the back by Gaston¡±

    Leonardo gave out a shock gasp.

    ¡°But¡­.¡±I began, wanting to calm his nerves. ¡°Belle kissed him at that moment¡±

    I watched his eyes sparkle with hope.

    ¡°Yeah he got his true love kiss right before thest petal from the rose fell off. The curse was broken and he turned to a charming prince¡±

    ¡°What about Gaston?¡±

    ¡°Oh Gaston died. He fell down from the castle in the heat of the moment. You could say he nned his own death¡± Iughed

    Leonardo felt satisfied and sculled down the entire ss of whiskey.

    ¡°So belle looked above his superficial qualities and saw that he was a good person deep down. She stood with him in face of difficulties and never let Gaston selfish aim rule¡­¡±

    I listened to Leonardo who began narrating the lessons he learnt from the story like a little child.

    Wow. He was a good listener and a sharp learner.

    ¡°Belle seems just like you¡±he admitted giving me a boyish grin.

    I nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve always envisioned myself as her. What she did was so daring¡±

    An exhale left my lips as I turned my eyes to the square shaped window next to my seat.

    I yawnedzily and felt my eyes bing heavy.

    I could sense Leonardo staring intently at me but I didn¡¯t really feel scared.

    My eyelids closed slowly and I let out a sigh.

    LEONARDO

    I watched Crystal sleep gently. She had been asleep for more than thirty minutes now.

    A strand of her blonde hair dangled across her face and her full, plump lips were parted.

    I tucked it in gently behind her ear making sure not to wake her up. It took every self restraining cell in me not to suck on her lips. They looked so tempting.

    Staring at her got me wondering how she tasted.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    Sweet ofcourse. I was a creep, I know.

    Lines ofughter hadpletely been erased from her face. She was just a gentle soul that was fast asleep right now¨Cnot having any  single worry in the world.

    The only movement in her body was the slow rise and fall of her engorged breasts.

    She looked so enthralling.

    I had been watching Crystal ever since I brought her in to stay with me.

    From the very moment I set my eyes on her at the strip club, her innocence enthralled me.

    From the way she danced and her bodynguage, I could easily decipher that she didn¡¯t want to be there.

    Other strippers would usually go very close to the audience letting those crazy men touch them but she left as soon as the music stopped.

    I never thought I would meet Travis price¡¯s  daughter in one of my strip clubs. I was eager to see her again so  I called for her privately and her innocence pulled me more into her.

    I very well knew she hated me. At first I thought I didn¡¯t care. I felt as long as she just stayed in my house and having her submit to me was enough. But gradually I realised that I didn¡¯t want her to hate me.

    When she rejected to have dinner with me, for the first time I had been turned down by a girl and it irked me.

    I waspletely overwhelmed with anger that I littered her body with strokes from my belt.

    I truly am a beast. Whenever I think of the mean things I did to her, I feel so ashamed of myself. I feel like stabbing myself repeatedly.

    I never knew fear.

    ¡°In the mafia you don¡¯t fall inlove. You show no emotions¡± my father would yell at me.

    I never felt fear until the day I saw her and chase kiss.

    I felt angry, a grenade had exploded in my head and at the same time I felt so scared of loosing her to chase.

    It felt like my heart had been ripped out and crushed to dust right before my eyes.

    Jealousy gripped me. She was never at ease with me. She would always get a fright whenever she was with me but reverse was the case for chase.

    Shepletely surrendered herself to his kiss and at that moment I felt nothing but to kill chase.

    I needed her to know that I was the only one meant to touch her.

    I never knew my reaction to the kiss that transpired between her and chase would make her fall sick.

    I never expected that.

    Like the beast in the narration of her fairy tale, I had built a cold wall over the years to keep myself away from any sort of emotions that could render me weak.

    But Crystal somehow managed to tear down those walls in just a day.

    My heart sank to my deepest abyss of fears the moment I spotted her lying unconscious under the cold waters of her shower.

    I was scared, trepadised, horror struck¨Cany word to describe how fearful I had be.

    I wish I never made her feel so worthless and caged because now I would have to work alot to win her trust. I kept on denying my love for her until the day she fell ill.

    I couldn¡¯t deny it any longer. I totally shut all work activities to cater for her and here I am taking her on a trip to Italy.

    I loved this woman.

    I wanted her to know how much I loved her, I wanted to know the real Crystal also¨C not the fearful one that hated Leonardo.

    I wanted to also know if she felt something for me. Over the days she had been opening up to me. She was bing less scared of me and more rxed. It was a good progress.

    I was getting ready to actually  profess my love to her. Hearing myself sound like a teenager in love got a smile stered on my face.

    But I know what I feel for her is real and true.

    Whenever she is in my arms, I feel so happy, so excited. It is literally the best feeling ever.

    Spending so much time with her got me to feel things I never thought I could feel. She was purity, innocence and I was the opposite.

    I needed her to actually love me for me, and although I was willing to change for her sake, I was desperate for her love also.

    I am acting like a total simp right now and I don¡¯t care. I needed to have Crystal. I am very well aware of the fact that she probably still hates me.

    I knew it will be challenge to get her to want me and love me as much as I do for her but I was ever willing to work for it.

    I was loosing my mind but I loved it. I felt like a creep but I didn¡¯t care.

    I kept on staring at her enticing facial features, my eyes were literally exploring all part of her body.

    I wished I could touch her whilst my eyes fed on her looks but I had to control myself.

    I didn¡¯t want to scare her. Scaring her would push her away and that was thest thing I wanted to happen.

    I loved, wanted and needed Crystal. And I¡¯ll make sure I get her even if it¡¯s thest thing I have to do.

 Chapter 28

    CRYSTAL

    ¡°Wakeup Crystal¡±

    My body was being tapped on mildly, a husky voice echoing in my ear.

    I yawnedzily with my eyes slowly fluttering open from the abyss of darkness I had fallen into.

    ¡°We¡¯vended¡±Leonardo announced huskily. At once I sat up straight, smiles beaming all over my face.

    ¡°Are you serious!?¡± I almost screamed as excitement bubbled within me.

    He nodded andbed my slightly ruffled hair with hisrge hands.

    ¡°Now I can finally know where you are taking me to¡± I chirped in high spirits.

    Leonardo sniggered and stood up, stretching out his hand for me to grasp.

    I held on to it and he helped me to my feet.

    I felt his hand slightly interlock with mine causing my skin to tingle.

    Oh good Lord. What is this man doing to me? Am I suppose to feel this way?

    I suddenly began feeling self conscious as Leonardo walked me out of his jet.

    My mind raced back to when I was asleep.

    Oh my God.

    I hope I wasn¡¯t drooling or snoring or worse talking in my sleep.

    Back when when we were kids, Mabel told me I normally talked in my sleep.

    I hope I didn¡¯t do any of that¨Cdisying that weird ass character.

    I didn¡¯t want him to see me as weird. I wonder if I even looked atleast presentable in my sleep.

    Pathetic. When did I start caring about how I appeared in the presence of Leonardo?

    Exactly. This man was doing things to me. Things I didn¡¯t want to think off.

    Leonardo still had his hands interlocked with mine until we got to the bottom of the ne stairs.

    ¡°Wee to Italy¡±He happily told me, freeing my fingers from his hold.

    I didn¡¯t know how to feel when he let go of my petite, slender fingers.

    Rather than focus on the absence of his surprisingly gentle touch, I clouded my mind on the fact that we were in Italy and it was dark.

    The airport where wended was beautiful, lights beaming from every corner, the boisterous rush from the crowd inside could be heard.

    I literally slept through out the entire fucking flight.

    I noticed some huge men of equal muscrity, about four of them, approached I and Leonardo.

    ¡°Benvenuto capo. La tua limousine ¨¨ pronta- wee boss. Your limousine is ready¡± one of them spoke up in his deep echoing voice almost making me jump out of my skin.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    Leonardo nodded and the men led us to a fleet of five shiny breath taking cars all doused in ck.

    Leonardo and I got into the limousine, the men acting like a shield around both of us.

    Wow. He really has loyal men.

    Once buckled up inside, the limousine geared to life and we began moving to probably God knows where.

    Even at night, Italy was as busy as ever. From the tinted sses of the limousine, I spotted various sky scrappers whose summit looked like they could touch the sky all illuminated with bright, glow of colours.

    The people still bustled around, wind eagerly blowing the banners of various restaurants and their fascinating night lights.

    I turned my attention from the ss to meet Leonardo staring at me, a disparaging smile on his lips.

    ¡°What?¡±I asked.

    ¡°You seem so intoxicated by the scenery¡±He cockily replied.

    Ofcourse I was. It was my first time travelling out.

    I shrugged my shoulders.

    ¡°Yeah I am. First time out of the states¡± I bodly replied.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You will see more of Italy by day and yours truly-me, shall be your guide. You have me all to yourself¡± he gave a wink causing me to almost choke on air.

    I was going to be in Italy with Leonardo. I wonder how this trip will turn out.

    After about thirty minutes of driving, I noticed our limousine hade to a halt, before it began riding slowly into what seemed like an estate.

    I was literally speechless the moment I and Leonardo stepped down to behold the beguiling building that stood tall.

    It felt like I was in the surroundings of a pce. This ce was bigger than Leonardo¡¯s house and his house was huge.

    ¡°We will be staying in one of my hotels Crystal¡± Leonardo said to my gawking self.

    I gave no reply instead I fed my eyes on the architectural design of the hotel.

    The hotel had ss windows that beamed and sparkled as a result of the luminous rays of the moon hitting it. The door to the entrance was spinning and it shimmered, emerald gemstones designed into it.

    That must have cost a fortune.

    There were sprinklers deposited at all corners, their waters hitting thergewn that surrounded a part of the formal building.

    Water fountains stood at various locations. They were decorated with marbel and they sprayed water upwards into the air. I peaked up and I saw the name of the hotel bodly written in a beautiful shade of red. It was probably in Italian and I couldn¡¯t read Italian.

    The entire vicinity was dazzling with light beams coupled with ostentatious statues of gargoyles and lions.

    It was really so ssy. Expensive cars were parked at all corners.

    This ce was really for men and women of high ss.

    The moment I stepped my feet inside the building, I was thoroughly mesmerized.

    After staying with Leonardo, I thought I was probably used to  seeing fancy buildings but I wasn¡¯t at all.

    The sweet scent of honey, almond and cinnamon hit my nostrils creating a beautiful odour frenzy.

    The ceilings were held up by huge marble white pirs that had intricate designs.

    A huge chandelier was situated at the middle of the lobby, brilliant lights radiating from it. That chandelier looked like it cost a fortune-which it probably did.

    Smaller, elegant chandeliers stood at some corners of the lobby.

    Italian music yed in the lobby, the sound reverberate through the air.

    The lobby also had beautifully furnished coffee tables and sofa¡¯s matching to its formal look.

    Artificial nt pots and flower vases were littered all around.

    The beeping sound of the elevator rang into my ears.

    Before I knew it, I was being led to the centre of the lobby by Leonardo, his grip on my arm strong like I could vanish into thin air.

    An older lookingdy with brown hair having an ounce of gray in it was situated at the reception desk. She was on a ck zer, white blouse and ck office trousers.

    ¡°Benvenuto signore- wee sir¡± I heard thedy say.

    ¡°La nostra camera ¨¨ stata preparata?-has our room being prepared?¡± Leonardo asked.

    I watched her nod her head and hand Leonardo a keycard.

    He swiftly took me by hand once more and we stepped inside the elevator.

    I watched Leonardo press thest button.

    Oh my. We were heading to the top floor.

    The elevator made a beep sound as it opened. I never knew mafia men were this rich.

    He was so stinking rich.

    I watched Leonardo scanned the keycard and typed it in the code to get into the room.

    No fucking way. I was mesmerized, enthralled, stuperfied and speechless.

    Was this a room or an entire building inside a hotel?

    The room was beautiful, the soft rays of the moon feeling it as a result of the ss walls adding to its rich outlook.

    I bet I could probably see the whole of Italy from the spellbinding view of the ss.

    I noticed therge room had brown walls apanied by the ss walls. A huge t screen tv hung up and underneath itid a firece built into the wall.

    Opposite it were velvet coloured sofas with fluffy pillows and a vanity table.

    My eyes narrowed to the right side of the room, it¡¯s door was slightly opened. I strained my eyes to peak a nce and I saw that it was the kitchen. I could spot various cupboards and stools in it.

    A huge chandelier hung over arge dinning table next to the ss walls. A very good idea. Eating and enjoying the Italian scenery.

    I noticed metal stairs with iron bars. That probably led to the bedroom and bathroom.

    Would I and Leonardo share a room? I dreaded that thought.

    ¡°Principessa step inside¡±Leonardo cut into my thoughts.

    I didn¡¯t even notice I was still standing by the door way.

    I slowly walked inside and closed the door behind me.

    ¡°This is one of my penthouses Crystal. You look tired. Go upstairs and freshen up ok. Everything is already in ce. Your clothes, umm perfumes, shoes, toothbrush and all that. I got eveything in preparation for our arrival. Your room is the one with the brown door ok. I¡¯ll call on one of the hotel staffs to get us food¡±

    I could only nod. I was about heading upstairs when Leonardo passed by me towards the door.

    ¡°Where are you going to?¡±I inquired.

    ¡°Just to handle a few duties.

    Your food will be served soon enough ok. Take care of yourself Crystal. I¡¯ll be back¡±Leonardo replied before stepping out and shutting the door living me alone in the penthouse.

    Wow. I and Leonardo would be under the same roof for some couple of days. I felt knots tie in my stomach.

    I know it is like the same in his mansion back home but this time it¡¯s just going to be I and him.

    I hope I don¡¯t do something stupid.

 Chapter 29

    CRYSTAL

    Sunlight creeped through the curtains of my room causing me to flutter my eyes open. I rolled over to the other side of the bed and stretched my bodyzily before sitting up on the bed.

    I ced my rickety feet on the ground, flinching at the contact of the cold tiles on my feet.

    My legs wandered to the window as I gazed out of it.

    Wow!

    The view is amazing. I could see the bustle from the road; the honking of cars, chattering from the crowd whilst everybody engaged in their daily business.  I also had a clear view of the hotel and I noticed a spell  binding swimming pool.

    I still couldn¡¯t believe I was really in Italy.

    Leonardo had outdone himself in this one. Speaking of  Leonardo, I hadn¡¯t seen him since yesterday night. The man just brought me into this penthouse and dashed out in a sh. I thought he woulde back before dinner but he didn¡¯t.

    I truly hope he didn¡¯t abandon me in Italy.

    Well it wasn¡¯t something he couldn¡¯t do.

    My eyes then wandered to the digital clock ced on the wall before roving around the majestic bedroom.

    It was already eleven am.

    Wow. I must have seriously over slept.

    I proceeded to shuffle my feet into the shower.

    In about twenty minutester, I was already venturing downstairs. The sky blue denim jean apanied by a purple and red striped offshoulder blouse Leonardo got for me fitted me perfectly, gluing onto my body.

    I wondered how long he had been nning this trip because every thing literally looked like he ordered it months ago. My room was already furnished, wardrobes stacked with beautiful dresses and shoes just waiting for my arrival.

    Leonardo was a box of surprise.

    His sudden niceness, caring attitude and tranquil state was rming to me.

    It¡¯s sad how I always expect people to treat me bad.

    I exhaled and matched down the stairs when I heard the tter sound of tes.

    I quickened my steps, panic gripping me at the thought of an intruder in the pent house.

    It wasing from the kitchen.

    I tiptoed towards the door and perched by the hinges, peaking a nce at the slightly opened kitchen door only to spot Leonardo inside.

    I sighed a breath of relief and watched Leonardo intently. He had his back faced against me and I¡¯m sure he did not notice my presence.

    In his hands was a book, he was flipping through the pages, ferociously ncing through it.

    I watched him hit his fist on the kitchen counter in vexation.

    What was getting him all worked up?

    ¡°How the fuck am I supposed to make this? Fuck shit. I¡¯m an Italian and I¡¯m finding it difficult to cook this!¡±Leonardo growled.

    Was it cooking that was getting him this exasperated?

    I couldn¡¯t hold in theughter bubbling from within me.

    It caught Leonardo¡¯s attention. He turned to catch meughing like a jackass.

    I pushed open the door more widely and stepped inside.

    ¡°Why are you this angry?¡±I asked after I had controlled my fits ofughter.

    A smug smile appeared on his handsome face. Running his hand across his hair, he dropped the book and browsed my look.

    ¡°Finally you are awake. How was your night?¡±

    I coughed slightly and went over to the kitchen counter.

    Taking the book by my hand, my curious eyes read through what Leonardo was initially reading.

    It was a recipe with instructions on how to makesagne.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    I nced at the cover of the book. It was a cook book.

    ¡°My night was fine. Where did you spend the night? I thought you abandoned me¡±I sighed, eyes still on the cook book.

    ¡°I¡¯ll never abadon you gattina¡± Leonardo reassured me, cing one of hisrge hands on mine. It totally covered my slender fingers.

    I finally nced up at him, taking in his features with a smile forming in my face. ¡°Why were you getting so tensed up with this book?¡±

    ¡°Crystal I wanted to preparesagne. But it¡¯s so difficult even with the fucking cook book. Well probably because I hate cooking¡±Leonardo exined to me.

    Iughed at his reply.

    ¡°You know what? I¡¯ll just get food from the hotel staffs. I can¡¯t do this no more¡±he added gruffly.

    ¡°Leonardo I can makesagne. Well if I follow the directions of the book¡±I offered, taking the book up from the counter.

    Leonardo waved his hands at it and took the book from my hold.

    ¡°I nned a tour for us today. Let¡¯s skip the hustles of making thissagne and go get a quick breakfast¡±he winked, sounding boyish.

    I nodded my head in defeat and he led me out of the kitchen, his strides quick and long.

    ¡°Slow down. You still haven¡¯t told me where you spent the night yesterday¡±I reminded him of my unawared question.

    ¡°I spent the night in here with you¡±Leonardo replied once he stepped out of the pent house.

    I gasped and my eyes widened.

    ¡°With me?! In my room? How dare you!¡±

    Heughed heartily as he locked our suite. ¡°No silly not in your room. In this penthouse that we both live in¡± he repliedying emphasis on the ¡®WE¡¯.

    I felt so silly by my impulsive outburst. I rubbed my elbow with my hand nervously. ¡°Oh.. sorry for the outburst¡±I apologised timidly.

    Leonardo chuckled. ¡°It is cool Be. Condivideremo presto una stanza- we will share a room soon¡±

    What did he say?

    I nced at him as we walked into the elevators, my eyebrows raised asking for an interpretation. ¡°What did you say? You know I don¡¯t understand Italian¡±I reminded him.

    He shrugged his shoulders before pressing one of the buttons of the elevator. ¡°I know principessa¡±

    ¡°Ok would you mind telling me the interpretation?¡±I asked, a little bit of frustration in my tone.

    ¡°Nope. Non lo so per ora- don¡¯t know it for now¡± Leonardo smirked.

    This man was such a pain in the ass. I gave up on trying to find out the interpretation and instead focused my attention on the tour he said he nned for I and him.

    I was dying to see where Leonardo and I would be going to.

    Today seems to be interesting for both of us.

 Chapter 30

    CRYSTAL

    Basking in the warmth of the sun, I and Leonardo walked down the cobble streets of Rome. Everything felt so surreal for me. After a sumptuous breakfast, Leonardo didn¡¯t waste no time in taking me out on our tour in rome.

    He had wanted to take one of his cars but I insisted we walked. That way we would enjoy the tour more and get that Italian experience.

    The garrulous voices of people; both men, women and young people filled the air. Laughing and chatter soared, young children ying around and teenagers engaging in their t¨ºt¨º-¨¤-t¨ºt¨º.

    The street we were in was filled with old Italian apartments that had rugged draping down from the windows.

    I had a beam on my face as I watched everything but then I realised I had no camera to actually capture the moment.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Crystal?¡±Leonardo asked as if noticing my disappointed inner state.

    ¡°Nothing¡±I replied putting up a smile.

    He shook his head at me. ¡°I can read you like a book. Spill¡±he ordered.

    Even when he was nice, he was still very much dominating.

    I sighed apologetically. ¡°I just realised we had no cameras to capture the moment¡±

    ¡°Is that all?¡±he asked.

    I nodded.

    At once he held on to my hand catching me off by surprise.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡±I asked in a fright.

    ¡°To fullfill your wish¡±

    I was shocked. Would he really get me a camera.

    Leonardo led me down the street, making turns that I had be so lost. He probably really knows his way around Italy.

    His strides were practically too fast for me to keep up with even though he held me by hand. We walked into a dainty little shop.

    It was filled with wristwatches of different styles, design, types and cameras. He finally let go of my arm making me rub the spot he held on to.

    My eyes trailed around the shop as Leonardo conversed in Italian to the shopkeeper. Minutester he approached me. In his hands were two disposable cameras.

    ¡°Here be.¡±he handed my stunned self one of the cameras.

    I had my mouth parted. He fucking bought a camera for me.

    My eyes explored the camera, before snapping to meet with Leonardo¡¯s.

    ¡°For me?¡± I asked in sheer surprise.

    He nodded. ¡°Ofcourse. You wanted it didn¡¯t you? It has space for about seventy photos. We will take alot of pictures¡±he winked.

    I grinned at him. We both stepped out of the store, our cameras hanging by our necks.

    ¡°Let us go to my favourite cafe shall we?¡± Leonardo charmingly asked.

    I nodded. I began taking random pictures of people and the environment as we walked. A wide smile was on my lips.

    Leonardo took me by hand once again. I noticed a cafe in sight.

    Pane.

    What a beautiful name to be honest.

    It had a window disy of intricate dough sculptures shaped like the Colosseum and other Rome icons.

    The outside sitting area had patio chairs and tables.

    It was draped in colourful shade of flowers giving off a beautiful setting to take coffee.

    I sat down on one of the chairs, Leonardo standing.

    ¡°What shall I get you?¡±He asked politely.

    Wow¡­. this sudden change in him was not only beautiful but suspicious.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know though surprise me¡±I replied.

    ¡°I will trust me¡±he replied mischievously with a wink before heading inside the cafe.

    Although I wasn¡¯t hungry but I don¡¯t mind tasting another dish.

    I was basking in the warmth of the sun while taking in the architectural beauty of Rome. Everything was amazing.

    I spotted Leonardo through the windowsing out with a spherical tray.

    He ced it in front of me, the aroma was enticing.

    It contained  two oval shaped coffee sses and a chicken nugget like dish.

    ¡°This..¡±Leonardo introduced pointing at the coffee, ¡°is called caff¨¨ freddo. It is a cold, sweet coffee¡±

    I stared longing at him, my mouth watering at the dish ced before me.

    ¡°What are those?¡±I asked pointing at what seemed like chicken nuggets.

    ¡°They are called crhette di polle e ricotta. They are Italian croquettes filled with chicken and ricotta¡±he exined to me.

    He sat down and took one in his hand, offering me to eat it.

    I attempted to collect it from his hand but he gave me a look as if telling me I¡¯ll have to eat it from his hand.

    I gulped down my nervousness and I took a bite. My eyes widened in amazement. It tasted so good.

    I immedately took it out of Leonardo¡¯s hands and ate it.

    At that instant Leonardo took a picture of me with his disposable camera.

    ¡°Leonardo¡±I scolded almost choking on my food.

    He passed me one of the coffee ss and I sculled it down.

    ¡°Why did you take that!? I must look horrible¡± I chided, wiping my mouth with the back of my palm.

    ¡°You look mesmerising Crystal. You can never look horrible to me¡±he smirked, leaning forward.

    I huffed at him, trying to suppress my blush.

    We spent our time in the cafe by talking about random things, hobbies and the likes.

    I was really getting to know so much about Leonardo. He probably is not as horrible as I expected.

    Either that or he is just putting up a farcade show of care.

    ¡°How does it taste? Sweet yes?¡±Leonardo asked.

    I nodded in affirmative.

    ¡°It is to be honest. I love it¡±

    ¡°Sweet just like you¡±I heard him mutter lowly with a smug smile.

    ¡°Leonardo¡±I gasped, my blush visibly evident at his sultry utterance.

    Heughed at my embarrssed state.

    God. This man was so insanely confident.

    We continued talking for a while before I felt I had gotten enough.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know about you but I am deeply filled up and can¡¯t wait to begin our tour¡±I told Leonardo.

    He gave me a thumbs up as he took onest scull of his coffee. He then stood up with me and grabbed his camera.

    Let the tour begin.

    * * * * * * * *

    Today had been eventful, amazing and beautiful to say the least.

    Leonardo had nned it all out. He got tickets to the Roman Colosseum which was surprising not far from the Pane cafe.

    Leonardo was my tour guide. He told me that the Roman Colosseum was arge amphitheatre that housed up to 65, 000 spectators in the Roman days. This was where the famous Roman diatoralbats were held followed by the bloody, gory and murderous death.

    We also headed to the Trevi fountain of Rome also known as Fountain Di Trevi. Leonardo told me it was built in the eighteenth century. I was marvelled at his knowledge of Roman history.

    Who would ever think Leonardo knew all these? I thought the only thing he knew how to do was to kill.

    There was an ostentatious disy of the god of the sea, Neptune in his chariot on the fountain.

    At the end of it all, I tossed a coin into the fountain. It was said that tossing a coin meant that the person will one day return to Italy.

    I hope I will.

    Leonardo took me to the Ptine hill and the Forum Romanum. He told me it was the centre of ancient Roman empire. We explored it and I got to see that it contained Roman excavations and an archaeological park filled with old temples, market structures and other important building.

    The Ptine hill had excavations of imperial Roman residences.

    In betwen our tour, I got to taste various mouth watering dishes and engaged in multiple taxi rides. Leonardo made sure of that.

    Now it was evening. I and Leonardo were walking down a street, the beaming lights from the streetmp illuminating our path.

    I gazed up, taking in the Italian night sky. The moon stayed filtered through the foggy clouds.

    ¡°Where are we heading to now Leonardo?¡±I asked with the same excitement I had earlier in the morning.

    ¡°Would you like a water taxi ride?¡±He asked, looking down at my face.

    I nodded.

    I had never been in one before. Our hands brushed as we walked together causing my skin to tingle at the slight touch.

    Leonardo interlocked his hand with mine and led me to an already waiting water taxi.

    ¡°Shall we?¡±He asked which seemed more like amand as we both had already entered the taxi.

    I poked my head outside the window, my eyes narrowing at the water underneath us. No doubt it must be freezing cold.

    I could spot the starry stars in the reflection of the water. The wind pped across my cheeks, brushing my hair across my face which made me retreat my head out of the window and into the taxi.

    Leonardo shifted in his seat, his body touching mine which sent shivers down my body.

    The taxi rode in silence, a quiet,  peaceful and tranquil one.

    ¡°Crystal¡±Leonardo asked.

    I stared at him.

    ¡°Are you still scared of me?¡±He asked softly.

    ¡°Um.. well¡­¡±i was suddenly finding it difficult to process the words from my mouth.

    If it were to be earlier, I would have admitted yes in a heartbeat but now¡­ It just seem weird to say that.

    ¡°Talk to me ok¡±He persisted cooly.

    ¡°I was before but now you¡­ um.. well it has reduced. I still don¡¯t buy your kindness towards me¡±I replied.

    ¡°I don¡¯t expect you to¡±he admitted.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    He exhaled sharply. ¡°I have been mean to you. Treated you unfairly. I want to make up for it¡±

    Was this Leonardo speaking to me?

    I found it hard to believe at this point. What the hell was going on?

    He was literally messing with my head.

    Weeks ago he was a rude, arrogant dick and now he is just being the opposite.

    What was his true aim?

    ¡°I feel like that beast from that Disney fairy tale. Probably I am. I have done things in this life that I never felt remorse for. Way terrible things but seeing you hurt because of me is like a stab in my chest¡±

    ¡°It is fine leonardo¡± I reassured him with a soothing smile. That¡¯s the only thing I can say at this point.

    I feel so speechless.

    ¡°No it¡¯s not Be¡±

    ¡°It is for real. It¡¯s in the past now. You are trying to make up for it and you are doing a very good job¡±I said teasingly.

    He gave me a faint smile. Right there in his blue, icy eyes swarm emotions I couldn¡¯t make the meaning out of.

    I tore my eyes from his gaze immedately, feeling shy.

    ¡°This feels too good to be true¡±I said underneath my breath.

    ¡°Really?¡±he asked, cocking a brow.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Hmm¡± I replied with a hum.

    ¡°It almost feels enchanting¡±

    ¡°You know what is enchanting Crystal?¡±He curiously questioned me.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°When I see it next time I¡¯ll make sure to tell you¡±

    I gave him a nod. He encircled his arm around my shoulder. I felt a butterfly havoc in my stomach with our bodies slightly pressed against each other.

    I slowly rested my head on his chest, closing my eyes as the taxi sailed on the waters.

    Everything felt perfect.

    The question was how long would itst?

 Chapter 31

    CRYSTAL

    ¡°Wakey wakey sleepy head¡±

    I heard a husky male voice call out to me, his rich tone reverberate in my head.

    I yawned slowly as my eyes gradually fluttered open.

    Looming by the doorway to my room stood Leonardo, a smirk on his face.

    He wore a white shirt that hugged his chiselled body, showing off his muscles.

    He leaned against the door, eyes watching me like how a predator would watch its prey.

    How long had he been standing there? And why was the door to the room opened?

    ¡°What the hell are you doing standing by my door?¡±I asked sitting up and straightening my spine.

    Leonardo gave a low groan and walked inside my room.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say you coulde in?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask¡±came his tongue tying reply.

    I threw a pillow at him which he dodged before sticking his hands into the pocket of his pants.

    ¡°Leonardo were you watching me sleeping? How long have you been standing there?¡±I queried with a frown.

    I suddenly felt he was stalking me.

    ¡°Well I was passing by and saw how cid you looked deep in your slumber. I was just tempted to stay and watch you sleep¡±He replied.

    ¡°Was my door opened?¡±I asked once more with a hiked brow.

    He hummed and nodded.

    ¡°Whoa!¡±I eximed. I was about iming that I closed my door when yesterday¡¯s event hit me like aet.

    I remembered how tired I was after I and Leonardo¡¯s eventful tour round Rome. I was so exhausted that my body shut down the moment it hit the soft sheets of my bed. I didn¡¯t bother to close my door.

    I ced a hand on my forehead, leaping up from my bed and to the floor.

    ¡°Well you can leave now. I want to freshen up¡±

    He stared at me for a brief moment.

    ¡°Ok principessa¡± he replied shortly afterwards.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

    What a creep¡­. I thought to myself before going into the shower.

    In about thirty minutes, I was fully freshened up.

    I stared at my reflection in the mirror, making sure I looked presentable. My hair was side parted and left to fall, the locks dangling by my shoulder.

    Leonardo liked it whenever it was let loose.

    When did you start caring about his likes?

    I am not.

    You are.

    No! I am not.

    Shut up you are.

    I struggled with my inner conflict before shaking my head to wipe out the fearful thoughts and focusing on other parts of my body.

    My eyes were no longer seeming dull or empty like they used to before.

    They looked rejuvenated and filled with life, hope and dreams.

    The darkspots and eyebags had cleared off. I was no longer crying myself to  sleep every fucking night.

    I felt renewed like a baby.

    Was it because of¡­.

    I didn¡¯t give myself the chance to answer that bedevilling question as I quickly upied my mind with satisfying my insatiable hunger at the moment.

    I happily walked downstairs like a dog with two tails.

    Leonardo sat on one of the sofa¡¯s, his eyes glued to therge tv screen. An investigative murder documentary was disyed on the screen.

    I huffed slightly. I am not surprised truly. The killer watches how to get away with murder.

    Leonardo seemed to notice my arrival in the parlour and peaked a nce at me from the corners of his eyes.

    ¡°How was your shower? Hot or cold?¡±He sultrily asked, turning fully to face me.

    I rolled my eyes and went across him, sitting down on one of the opposite sofas.

    ¡°You are such a freak you know¡±I taunted.

    He dismissed myment with a shrug of his shoulders. ¡°I know. How long did it take you to figure it out?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to ask, how did you know my dress size and shoe size. Every cloth I¡¯ve worn so far in Italy fits me perfectly¡±I asked ignoring his question.

    ¡°Well. I started nning this trip when you fell ill. I wanted you to get a bit of fresh air the moment you would begin recovering. So I bought everything before hand¡±he exined.

    In a way, his exnation touched me. He did all this for me.

    Well he was the one that made me fall ill in the first ce¡­ I reminded myself

    It didn¡¯t still exin how he got to know of my size.

    He leaned forward, out of the chair and widened his legs.

    ¡°I searched your wardrobe to get to know of your shoe and cloth size¡±he added briefly.

    My eyes widened and my jaws were ajar.

    ¡°My wardrobe? Without my fucking permission?¡±

    ¡°You were ill Crystal. And you were always slipping in and out of consciousness. You were literally a sleeping puppy¡±

    I thought of the various things he would have seen in my wardrobe.

    My bras, panties, tights¡­. oh Lord.

    ¡°Oh don¡¯t worry. I didn¡¯t see anything¡±Leonardo butted in as if sensing my thoughts.

    I sighed a breath of relief.

    He then tilted his head before squinting his eyes slightly and stroking his chin.

    ¡°Well apart from the redce panties, ummm white bra.. you know the one that had the butterfly¡­.¡±

    My face went beetroot red as Leonardo attempted exining my underwears.  ¡°What the fuck! Leonardo!¡±I chided immedately.

    Heughed heartily. ¡°You are so easily embarrssed Crystal¡±

    That was true. My face felt flush right now. Entirely flushed of all colours.

    ¡°What will we have for breakfast?¡±I asked in a bid to change the topic.

    He gazed at his Rolex wristwatch before looking back at me. ¡°I contacted the staffs about huh fifteen minutes ago for our breakfast so it should be here any moment from now¡±

    I nodded shyly.

    ¡°Tell me. What should we do today after breakfast?¡±

    Why was he asking me?

    ¡°You are asking me?¡±I asked surprised and pointing at myself.

    ¡°Is there any other person in this penthouse with me?¡±Leonardo cockily replied.

    ¡°Well. I don¡¯t know. The beach?¡±

    I studied his features carefully. I hope my reply wouldn¡¯t get him exasperated.

    ¡°A perfect idea!¡±He suddenly eximed, clicking his fingers together.

    A beam appeared on my face.

    ¡°We will go to the beach and then the movies. What do you say about that?¡±

    I nodded smiling. ¡°I¡¯m down for it¡±

    ¡°I can be down for you too¡±he sultrily replied making me shudder¡­. in want.

    Heughed at my rigid state and stood up, heading upstairs.

    ¡°Pervert¡±I said loud enough for him to hear. I could still hear his richughter as he walked upstairs.

    He enjoyed getting me all embarrassed and shy.

    This new yful, carefree and fun side of Leonardo was intriguing.

    I liked it.

    Probably I love it.

 Chapter 32

    CRYSTAL

    The bright light beams almost blinded my vision. Right before my eyes was a brightly lit restaurant. It was a very fancy and picturesque building.

    My day had been interesting just like yesterday. Leonardo took me to the beach and then to the movies.

    Now I was right outside a fancy and ssy restaurant. Was this a date though?

    Probably not¡­ I thought to myself.

    Watching the waves bang against the rocks, the salty water sshing on my body got my spirits high.

    At one point, Leonardo carried me across his shoulders and against my will towards the waters. I can still vividly recollect how I hit his shoulders, begging him to put me down.

    I was super scared of ocean waters.

    Acquaphobic¡­ I was acquaphobic.

    Leonardoughed at me so hard.

    Well I got my revenge back by tossing him a hand full of sand.

    The movie we watched was a Ro.

    At a point I felt so ufortable sitting next to Leonardo and watching various kissing scenes.

    Now I was right here in this ssy restaurant. Leonardo and I had truly spent a great deal of time together in this past couple of days.

    I peaked a nce at Leonardo and realised how much he had intrigued me these past couple of days.

    I saw him as a cold hearted, selfish, toxic and rude human who did not give two fucks about how his actions affected other people.

    But now, I don¡¯t know what is going on with him; this sudden change of attitude, but he is being anyhing but how I usually saw him as right now.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    He was being very kind, yful, boyish, caring¡­ the likes.

    With every passing hour, minute, second and nano-second, Leonardo¡¯s attitude was evolving, and in a good way.

    I can never be more stunned than this.

    I and Leonardo walked towards the entrance of the restaurant. The ce was fairly busy.

    I quickly took a cursory nce at the restaurant wisteria calligraphic writing of its heading ced at the top.

    It was so mesmerising to look at.

    ¡°Gattina is always looking stunned¡±Leonardo chuckled.

    My gaze moved to him and I gave a sheepish smile, tucking my hair behind my ear.

    Leonardo opened the door for me, letting me step inside first before he did.

    The ttering sound of tes and cutleries hit my ears. They weren¡¯t much atleast, just mild.

    Italian music yed in the restaurant, drowning the sound. I watched how various male waiters dressed in ck trousers and white shirt served the people.

    The decor of the restaurant wasn¡¯t overly posh to feel out of ce.

    It had wooden tables and chairs. Even the bar was wooden.

    Scented red candles and mini jars of roses were ced on each table, making it look so lovely. Fairly lit lights adorned the restaurant, creating beautiful beams as it hit the marble floors of the restaurant.

    Roman statues were also deposited at some corners of the restaurant. It was very scenic.

    I still felt like a fish out of my water because I wasn¡¯t used to all these.

    Back home, I was mostly used to eating on the floor or off the kitchen counter.

    A man hastily approached I and Leonardo. He looked like he was in his mid thirties.

    His dark hair was let to fall and sleeked backwards. He was ded in the dress code of all the waiters I had spotted. The only difference was that he had a ck bow tie and ck suit.

    In his hand, held two menus.

    He gave me a friendly smile before turning his attention to Leonardo.

    I watched them both converse in Italian, the man listening to Leonardo whilst writing down some things in the menu.

    I had no clue what they were saying.

    Probably Leonardo already made reservations for both of us.

    The man then jutted with his hands for us to follow him. He led us quite a distance from the front of the restaurant, away from everyone else.

    We climbed an iron staircase just like the one Leonardo had in his penthouse to get to where we would sit.

    The man left us hastily as he appeared.

    ¡°Won¡¯t he take our orders?¡±I asked bemused.

    ¡°He already did. I told him what we would want to eat the moment we stepped in¡±Leonardo answered me.

    He was still very much dominating and quite controlling.

    I faced my attention to the spell binding scenery in front of me.

    ss windows were next to where I and Leonardo sat giving us an amazing view to the beautiful outside environment.

    Glistening lights everywhere, it almost blinded my sclera. The cars,  motorcycles and taxis moved in such a tranquil state.

    Italy was beautiful and the view was needless to say, the same.

    ¡°Do you like it?¡±Leonardo asked which made look at him. He sat right in front of me.

    ¡°Of course I do¡±I replied happily. I had observed Leonardo¡¯s bodynguage this past couple of days we¡¯ve spent together.

    He always wanted me to feel asfortable as I could.

    It was thoughtful of him.

    ¡°Everything is so enchanting and lovely¡±I added, my eyes moving to the scenic view outside the windows.

    ¡°Well I know something that is more enchanting than all these¡±Leonardo said to me, cing his tattooed hands on the wooden round table that kept a fair distance between us.

    ¡°Something more enchanting than this?¡±I asked with creased brows.

    ¡°What is that?¡±I added not sounding convinced.

    He gazed at me. ¡°When I see it I¡¯ll tell you¡±

    ¡°Why can¡¯t you tell me now?¡±I objected.

    ¡°I will tell you when I notice that it¡¯s at it¡¯s bloom¡±Leonardo admitted to me.

    ¡°When did you start noticing this enchanting mythical thing?¡±I teasingly asked him.

    ¡°Well. Not too long ago. It had always been enchanting though. I just had to realise it¡±he admitted slowly, leaning  into his chair more.

    Iughed at Leonardo¡¯s words.  The sounds of feet approaching interrupted our discussion.

    I turned my face and saw a waitering upstairs with our order.

    ¡°Food is here. Shall we eat?¡±Leonardo politely asked.

    ¡°Ofcourse we shall¡± I replied with a smug smile.

    * * * * * * * * * *

    ¡°No I am telling you, roller costers make me puke and they are death rides¡±Leonardo said confidently as we walked towards the hotel.

    We did a lot of conversing once we were done with our meal in the restaurant. Now we were heading towards the entrance of his hotel.

    We spoke about random things, childhood secrets and the likes.

    Leonardo just told me what could be his biggest secret yet.

    He was scared of roller costers. Iughed so hard when I heard that.

    At one point he shot me a hard re but it didn¡¯t stop me fromughing my ass out.

    ¡°Leonardo you are such a freak. Roller coasters are cool as hell. I really love the rush and excitement thates with riding it¡± I said in between my fits ofughter.

    ¡°Well I don¡¯t. You are a witch that¡¯s why¡±Leonardo childishly replied which got me tough more.

    We stepped inside the hotel, heading towards the elevator.

    Myughter died down once we had entered the elevator.

    I turned to catch Leonardo staring at me.

    ¡°What?¡±I asked in a high pitch voice, my face heated up in embarrassment.

    Why was he staring at me?

    He didn¡¯t respond which got me to fold my arms at him.

    ¡°Stop staring at me. I¡¯ll pluck your eyes out. That¡¯s what witches do¡±I said to him, expecting a reaction from him.

    ¡°I saw it¡±he said, his voice sounding tender and low.

    ¡°What?¡±I queried. My brows pulling up in confusion.

    ¡°The enchanting thing. I saw it¡±he replied.

    ¡°It is you¡±he admitted, his voice now barely above a whisper.

    I felt my chin hit the ground. The air in the elevator suddenly became hot.

    I was tongue tied. How would I respond?

    ¡°Uhm¡­ well.. uhm.. oh¡±I stuttered with words. I got goosebumps in an instant.

    I prayed the elevator would open so I could scurry out of this tensed and heart racing situation.

    Was he being serious?

    I took a nce at him before turning my face away. He looked serious.

    ¡°Crystal?¡±He called out, crossing the distance between us.

    Oh Lord. My heart sank to my stomach. I felt my knees bing weak and the air suddenly felt too tight to breathe in.

    I didn¡¯t respond to him. I rubbed my elbow with one of my hands nervously, not knowing how to react.

    ¡°Crystal I¡¯m serious. You are that enchanting thing I saw. Your outer self is amazing but what is inside of you is so enchanting¡±He said, sounding so genuine and thoughtful.

    I managed to pull myself together and look at him.

    We were literally so close. His face was just a couple of spaces away from mine.

    ¡°You are funny Leonardo¡±Iughed nervously.

    ¡°Stop joking around¡±I added.

    ¡°I am not Crystal. I mean everything I say¡±he stood by his words.

    How can Ibat this?

    I turned my attention away from him again.

    ¡°Crystal¡±he called out.

    I gave no reply.

    He exhaled lowly and moved away from me. From the corners of my eyes, I spotted him going over to press one of the elevator buttons.

    ¡°Leonardo!¡±I called out in a fright the moment the elevator stopped moving.

    ¡°So you can talk?¡±He rhetorically asked.

    He quickly came towards me and grabbed my chin upwards roughly so I could face him.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind repeating myself a hundred times for you Crystal. You are the most kindhearted, innocent and beautiful girl I¡¯ve met. You are so good andpassionate. You are everything I am not. You have this aura of light emanating from you. You are strong and resilient, you don¡¯t give up. You put others first and you don¡¯t mind sacrificing yourself for the ones you love¡±Leonardo stopped in his ramble and he slowly let go of my chin.

    He ran his hands through his hair and gave me a mildughter. I didn¡¯t turn my face away this time. I stared at him.

    ¡°You know Crystal, seeing how much you were working your ass out to pay off your father¡¯s debt and also fend for you and your sister at the same time is beautiful. Mabel doesn¡¯t know how much of a warrior and fighter you are. She truly doesn¡¯t. You intrigue me Crystal. I thought when you stayed with me, you would probably give in and maybe I could just use you as a sex doll but you showed me you were more than that. Multiple times you rejected my advances and you tried escaping twice. You are literally the first girl to turn me down Crystal¡± Leonardo confessed.

    I felt my eyes choke up with tears as I remembered those moments. Those moments were I pictured Leonardo as nothing but a beast.

    I used a hand to cover my mouth and keep myself from crying but my body betrayed me and few traitorous tears were already slipping past my eyelids.

    ¡°You are kind, you are also timid at times too. But you have a big heart Crystal and that is very rare. Something I can never have. You brought me to my weakest state of despair the moment you fell ill. Crystal I was scared as hell. I couldn¡¯t think properly. My heart was at it¡¯s deepest abyss of my worst fears. I didn¡¯t want to loose you. From that day I realised you meant more to me. I had been ignoring and fighting it but it only took your illness to break down the cold walls I had built over the years. I realised I didn¡¯t want you to hate me Crystal. I realised I needed you with me and every second of my life.

    You are special to me¡± Leonardo spoke so eloquently of me.

    ¡°Ragazza timida, did I say something wrong?¡± He asked, brushing away the tears from my face.

    I shook my head, ¡°No.. no you didn¡¯t¡±I sobbed even more.

    He came closer to me and encircled his hand around my waist.

    My eyes widened at once.

    ¡°Crystal you are the light in my darkened world. I am a horrible person. I am nothing like you¡±he said to me without batting an eyelid.

    ¡°No don¡¯t say that Leonardo¡±I softly reassured him.

    He gave a chuckle.¡±I know what I am saying. I have done horrible things. Very gruesome things. I am nothing like you that¡¯s the more reason I need you. My world is so dark and cold. You are that tiny ray of light that is illuminating it¡±

    His eyes trailed to my quivering lips then to my face and back to my lips.

    ¡°You proved me wrong Crystal?¡±

    ¡°W-what did I do?¡±I asked stammering.

    ¡°I never believed I could fall inlove but you totally proved me wrong¡±

    My breathing got hitched in my throat the moment he said that.

    A wave of emotions swarm through me with my knees almost buckling to the ground but Leonardo¡¯s strong hold on my waist kept me afloat.

    ¡°I love you Crystal¡±

    That was thest thing Leonardo said to me before crushing his lips passionately on mine.

 Chapter 33

    CRYSTAL

    My eyes widened in amazement the moment I felt Leonardo¡¯s lips on mine. Time seemed to froze at that moment.

    His lips were so warm and wet.

    What the fuck!

    Heat like wild fire spread through out my entire body, causing havoc in me.

    My mind and my ability to think came to a halt the moment our lips locked.

    Leonardo had one of his arm on my waist whilst the other was ced on the walls of the elevator above my head.

    I quivered underneath him.

    His other hand made its way from my waist, to my ass; tenderly grabbing my soft behind, back to my waist trailing upwards to my neck and cheeks.

    His hands were literally exploring every part of me.

    His lips felt so soft, sweet and hot as it moved inside me greedily. His tongue demanded full entry into my mouth and I gave it to him.

    Parting my lips more, our tongues locked and moved in sync. Leonardo¡¯s took my hair into his hands and tilted it slighty as his tongue made its way inside me.

    I let out a soft moan, Leonardo swallowing it all. His breathing became low grunts that seemed to fill the entire elevator. They were barely audible but so fucking sexy.

    This felt so amazing. I totally surrendered myself to his fervent, hot and dominating kiss.

    My skin tingled, adrenaline rushing through me.

    I wanted more.

    I had no idea if I should be doing this or not but I cared less now.

    I wanted more of Leonardo.

    My hands raced to his hair, kneading into it and pulling it, pressing our bodies so tightly against each other.

    Leonardo groaned and our kiss deepened. His lips moved my own lips to my jaw, leaving a burning desire wherever they touched.

    I moaned out, an inferno raging within me.

    His lips trailed from my jaws to my neck, cing hot wet kisses along the way whilst nibbling and sucking on my skin.

    I moaned out airily, grabbing his air more tightly.

    My reaction got a husky groan from Leonardo.

    I bit my bottom lip, his name slipping from my mouth in a whispering moan before I could stop myself, ¡°Leonardo¡­¡±

    I felt Leonardo smirking against my neck. He was a cocky, hot jerk.

    His lips trailed back to mine, stroking my skin with his tongue along the way.

    identally, I bit at his bottom lip. Not hard but softly.

    In a flick, I felt so doused in embarrassment.

    What did I just do?

    Leonardo let out a groan in pleasure which gave me goosebumps.

    His demeanour suddenly changed. He was kissing me so hard, so rough and so intense.

    Sucking the air out of my lungs and filling it with his, he wasn¡¯t giving me a time to catch my breath.

    He kissed me like he owned me, like he had absolute control over me.

    But I loved it.

    I tried to suppress my moans, keeping my whimpers within me but I failed woefully.

    It made Leonardo plunder me with intense lustful kisses.

    He immedately lifted me up from the ground and I instinctively wrapped my legs around his waist.

    He pulled me a little further from the elevator wall before mming me back on to it.

    I groaned in pleasure, my back against the wall whilst his chest pressed so tightly against mine.

    Oh good Lord.

    The kiss was bing so erotic. Leonardo¡¯s breathing became so rapid in pace and the air in the elevator seemed to get hotter and hotter.

    If there was any way Leonardo could enter me right now, I bet he wouldn¡¯t hesitate noticing how he was furthering himself into me.

    His crotchid right under me as a result of how tall he was and I felt something very hard poke me.

    Oh shit.

    Leonardo was hard.

    I couldn¡¯t help but imagine how budging his dick would look.

    Fuck.. I was having sexual thoughts.

    The more he pressed himself on to me, the more I felt his hard rock dick hitting me.

    My pussy tingled and I felt a wet pool form in my panties.

    Leonardo¡¯s one hand trailed underneath my shirt, going to my spine.

    His hand skimmed his way along my skin eagerly searching for my bra hook.

    This was too fast. I don¡¯t want us to go any further especially not in this elevator.

    ¡°Um Leo¡­ I think we should stop¡±I said breathlessly pulling my lips away from his begrudgingly.

    He closed his eyes for a moment as if calming himself down before opening his eyes again.

    ¡°Sure my love. I will only go as far as you want me to go¡±

    My love¡­ He really loved me.

    Wow.

    Today had been filled with surprises.

    Did I love him too though?

    I know I felt something for Leonardo ever since he started acting more nice towards me but was it Love?

    I had no idea.

    And if I don¡¯t love him back, will his attitude turn back to the mean, cold and ruthless Leonardo?

    I dreaded that thought.

    Leonardo slowly put me down and went over to press one of the elevator buttons. The elevator immedately geared to life.

    He came over to me and stared at me. ¡°What is wrong Crystal? You look a little tensed. I won¡¯t force myself on you. You dont have to worry about that¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that Leonardo¡±I said with a mild chuckle.

    ¡°Why do you look tensed then?¡±he quizzically asked.

    ¡°Well¡­.¡±I began, my eyes darting downwards.

    ¡°You said you love me¡±

    He nodded.

    ¡°What if I don¡¯t feel the same way, will your attitude change towards me?¡±I fearfully asked, avoiding eye contact with him.

    He was silent for a moment.

    ¡°Crystal look at me¡±he softly requested.

    I did so, slowly.

    ¡°I¡¯ll never act like that towards you ever again. And I¡¯ll make sure I win your love¡±

    A smile spread across my face. At this point, I can say I trust Leonardo to a degree.

    ¡°Thank you Leo¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t thank me Crystal. I should have done this a long time ago¡±he replied.

    At that moment, the elevator made a beep sound that we had arrived at his penthouse and it slid open.

    We both stepped out and ventured into our suite.

    ¡°You amaze me Crystal¡±Leonardo said with a knowing smirk as we made our way upstairs.

    ¡°Why do you say that?¡±I asked amused, stopping in front of my bedroom door.

    ¡°I never knew I could get so hard with just a kiss¡±he replied sultrily, he thumb trailing on my lips.

    I felt my face heat up and pressed my lips in tightly.

    ¡°Did you enjoy it?¡±he asked, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

    ¡°W-what?!¡±I eximed, embarrassed by his question.

    ¡°It is a simple question my love. Did you?¡±he persisted with a devilish smile.

    ¡°I did¡±I nodded with a blushed face.

    Leonardoughed heartily.

    He looked very handsome when heughed. I could not help but admire his features.

    ¡°Go freshen up ok my love¡±he said, cing his lips on mine once more.

    We kissed passionately but briefly.

    I turned to head inside my room and caught him still smirking at me before I closed my door.

    Gosh.

    A subconscious smile walked its way to my face as I stepped into the shower.

    What the hell was Leonardo doing to me?

    Some weeks ago, I hated him more than anything else.

    Now just the thought of him brings smiles to my face.

    I giggled like a baby as I pulled of my clothes.

    I knew I definitely felt something for him but I need to be sure it¡¯s love and not just a mere tonic feeling.

    In a few minutes, I was already out of the shower.

    I was lying on the bed, putting on ace night gown.

    What transpired in the elevator was still ying in my mind.

    I felt like a bride.

    What the hell!

    A knock on the door came in.

    I knew who it was.

    ¡°It¡¯s opened. Come in¡±I responded loud enough for Leonardo to hear me.

    The door slowly pushed upon and a shirtless Leonardo stepped inside.

    I sat up to face him and my jaws dropped. He was only on a joggers.

    My eyes literally fed on his shirtless torso.

    From his perfectly chiselled chest to his sculpted arbs, taunt muscles¡­ damn.

    It looked so alluring.

    I noticed a perfect little trail of hair from his novel to his¡­. area.

    I gulped and my eyes walked back up to lock with his. Shit. He had realised I was staring at him.

    A conceited smirk was on his face.

    ¡°Ummm¡­ whatsup?¡±I asked nervously. When did i start feeling this nervous?

    ¡°You like what you see?¡± He replied sensually with a raised brow and walking towards my bed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t fancy yourself¡± I replied trying to cover up my lustful stares.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    ¡°From the way you were staring at me, seems like you want me¡± he confidentlyughed.

    I faced him as he came to lie beside me. ¡°That¡¯s not true!¡± I eximed.

    ¡°Ok sure¡± he replied rolling his eyes.

    ¡°Pervert¡±he muttered.

    My eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°You are so insane Leonardo¡±

    My reaction got himughing so hard.

    I huffed andid back on the bed.

    ¡°You are so easily teased my love¡±He whispered as our bodies touched each other.

    ¡°And you are a cocky jerk¡±I yfully replied, my eyes on the ceiling of my room.

    Leonardo enclosed his arms around my waist and faced me fully.

    I could feel his hot breath fanning my neck. A heat began rumbling in my stomach but I managed toposed myself.

    ¡°Hope you enjoyed our trip to my country?¡±he asked.

    ¡°Ofcourse I did. Best trip ever¡±

    Heid kisses by my cor bone making me tingle.

    ¡°We will be leaving tomorrow morning baby¡±he announced.

    I nodded and turned my back against him. He pulled me tighter to himself with his hand encircled around my waist, causing my back to press against his hard chest.

    ¡°Leo¡­¡±I called out.

    He hummed behind me.

    ¡°Thank you¡­. for everything¡±I admitted slowly.

    I heard him chuckle lowly.

    I wore a smile on my face as my eyelids slowly closed.

    This trip had turned out to be life changing.

    And Leonardo had turned out to be one of the kindest, carefree, loving humans I¡¯ve met.

 Chapter 34

    CRYSTAL

    ¡°Thank you¡± I told Leonardo as he helped me get into his jet.

    Wow.

    A lot happened within this past couple of days.

    First I fell sick which instantly brought out a side to Leonardo that I had never seen or even thought he had. I watched Leonardo abandoned all work activities for my sake.

    Though I found it skeptical to believe that he was actually being genuinely caring at first but slowly as we got to spend more time with each other, I came to see the real Leonardo.

    The one that was kind truthful, yful and loving.

    Leonardo surprised me more by taking me on a three day trip to Italy and during these three days, I totally grew extremely closer to him.

    We got to know a lot about each other. I got the opportunity to explore Rome, ride water taxis, taste exotic Italian dishes and most importantly spend time with this man that was causing me to feel something I thought I felt for chase.

    I havee to realise now that what I felt for chase was a mere crush. It wasn¡¯t deep love.

    The day chase kissed me, I thought I would feel happy because it was literally something I had been craving for. I thought I wanted it but it turned out I was scared whilst he was kissing me.

    The kiss felt so wrong even before Leonardo barged in us.

    But when Leonardo kissed me, I felt that spark of electricity course through me. I felt a million emotions and feelings emanate within me. A wave of adrenaline rushed through my body and I was so hyper.

    My knees totally caved in and I surrendered myself to his steamy and possessive lips.

    He got my body tingling with sensations, heat like a wildfire causing wreckage to my entire being.

    And his lips moved ever so softly against mine.

    His hands touched me like he wanted me. I could feel it.

    Those hands must have killed so many people. How ironic it was that those same hands that were capable of ending people¡¯s lives gave me so much pleasure as they explored my body.

    Just thinking of it gave me a wet pool in my panties again.

    I felt Leonardo¡¯s arm brush against my hips as we went over to sit.

    My face was blushed but Iported myself.

    I was about going to sit in the long scarlet red couch when Leonardo held on to my hand, stopping me.

    ¡°Let¡¯s sit over on the bed be yes?¡± he requested but it was more of amand as he led me to the bed that was on the jet.

    I rolled my eyes softly at his dominating attitude. It was just a part of him.

    Iid on the bed, Leonardo beside me.

    He crossed an arm over my shoulder but I didn¡¯t mind.

    Why should I?

    I wanted it.

    ¡°Some other time we wille to Italy my love¡±Leonardo said to me.

    ¡°Italy is beautiful and amazing. I must admit to that¡±I chirped.

    ¡°Ofcourse just like me my love¡±Leonardo replied, a disparaging smile on his lips.

    This man was so confident of himself.

    ¡°You tter yourself way too much¡±I cheekily said.

    A mild frown washed across his face.

    ¡°You always have a problem when ever I tter myself. Are you jealous Crystal?¡±

    I gasped in astonishment.¡±What!?¡±I eximed.

    He dismissed my stunned expression with augh.

    ¡°Wee Mr Leonardo¡±I heard a familiar feminine voice apanied by the soft clicking of her heels.

    Oh shit.

    The air hostess again.

    Thest time I was here with Leonardo, she totally ignored me like I didn¡¯t exist.

    I watched her approached us. I could see the distasteful look she had for me in her eyes but switched to a friendly smile once she turned her face to Leonardo.

    ¡°Thank you. Anything you want?¡±Leonardo abruptly asked causing her to flinch.

    ¡°W-well, would-would you like anything to drink?¡±She asked in a stutter trying to maintain her sultry looks on Leonardo.

    Leonardo looked at me and I gave a shake of my head, a conceited smile on my face.

    ¡°My Be doesn¡¯t need anything. When we want something then we will call you¡±Leonardo dismissed her with a wave of his hands.

    She huffed at me and her lips pulled to a scowl before she matched away, obviously exasperated at both I and Leonardo.

    Once she was gone, I couldn¡¯t contain the bubbles ofughter within me.

    ¡°Why are youughing?¡±Leonardo asked.

    ¡°You know she likes you¡±I told him, my chin jutting towards the direction the air hostess went.

    ¡°I know that. I also observed how she  was acting with you from the first time we got on this ne¡± he admitted.

    ¡°Was that the reason you were quick to always shun her off?¡±I asked after managing to control my fits ofughter.

    He gave a nod. ¡°Ofcourse. I don¡¯t like any body being mean to my baby¡±he sweetly replied, cing a peck on my cheeks.

    ¡°But Crystal you know I¡¯m in the mafia don¡¯t you?¡±Leonardo asked sounding serious as he sat up straight.

    I was thrown aback. Why was he sounding so serious? He was happy a moment ago. Was it something I said that got to him?

    ¡°Y-yeah¡± I managed to reply.

    ¡°You know what I do. You know I can¡¯t let you go. You have to sign a contract of omert¨¤ when we get back¡±

    ¡°What is that?¡±I sighed, sitting up too.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°It is a contract of confidentiality in the Mafia¡±

    The mafia?

    My eyes widened in fear. I and Leonardo have never conversed about his work.

    So why was he talking about it?

    ¡°What does the contract entail?¡± I asked nervously.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have it with me now but it is a contract signed if you are not part of the mafia but somehow uncovered the activities of the mafia. In order to be safe you have to sign the contract¡­¡±Leonardo paused in his speech.

    He essed my facial expression before going on.

    ¡°It is an oath of secrecy taken, swearing not to divulge the activities of the mafia tow enforcement agencies. You won¡¯t be allowed to have unmonitored phone calls, e-mails or texts as every thing will now be monitored by the mafia. You also can¡¯t go on unsupervised trips or vacations. All your movements will be monitored and track. You shouldn¡¯t be seen with the police either. You will have to be branded as belonging to the Mafia. And the punishment if you don¡¯t sign or break any of the rules is¡­ death¡±

    My jaws dropped and my heart sank.

    What the hell?

    What was all these?

    I didn¡¯t know the Mafia was this dangerous and serious. I thought it was just criminal gangs who fought asionally with other criminal gangs. I didn¡¯t expect them to be this serious and why the hell do i have to be involved in this?

    ¡°Leonardo do you seriously expect me to agree with all that? I am literally going to be trapped in your dangerous world of guns and blood if I sign that¡±I said in vexation.

    ¡°I know Crystal. But you have no choice neither do I. Please understand me¡±Leonardo softly spoke trying to calm the torrents that had be of my nerves.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t I have a choice? I can just act like i don¡¯t know you are in the Mafia. You don¡¯t need to make me sign this¡±I persisted, my eyes bing stung with tears.

    Leonardo shook his head. ¡°Look this is just to protect you and I¡­.¡±

    ¡°Protect me from what!?¡±I shot back, cutting him in his sentence.

    ¡°From death Crystal!¡±Leonardo yelled.

    ¡°Look¡±he began, trying to hold on to my hand but I pulled it away, tears trailing down my cheeks.

    I whipped my face away from him, my eyes having a far away look in them.

    ¡°If by any chance or in the nearest future, the Italians find out that you knew about the mafia but I never made you sign the contract neither did I brand you, I and you will both be killed. Before I gave your dad the loan, I made him sign this because he somehow found out about our activities. And I¡¯m sure he must have told you all that he loaned from a crime boss. You have to sign this please¡±Leonardo pleaded.

    ¡°And If I don¡¯t?¡±I asked silently, looking back at Leonardo.

    ¡°Will you kill me?¡±I added.

    He pulled me into his warm embrace and kissed my temple.

    ¡°I will never kill you Crystal¡±

    I sobbed on his chest before I pulled away. ¡°I¡¯ll sign it¡±I said determinedly with a nod.

    Leonardo¡¯s head descended downwards and he pressed a soft, slow kiss on to my lips.

    I kissed him back, our lips moving in sync.

    I held on to the cors of his shirt, yanking him closer as we kissed each other passionately.

    ¡°Before I get to brand you as belonging to the mafia, I¡¯ll have to brand you as mine¡±he sensually said, a devilish glint in his eyes once he pulled out from the kiss.

    Leonardo didn¡¯t waste no time.

    In an instant,  I felt his wet lips on my neck, hungrily sucking on it.

    A soft moan escaped my lips as Leonardo¡¯s expert tongue swept across my neck.

    His lips skimmed the edges of my cor bone, greedily cing soft bites all the way to my throat.

    ¡°Fuck¡± I airily breathed out. Slowly I and Leonardoid back on the bed, his lips not leaving my neck for a second.

    In a fluid motion, he got ontop me.

    My mind was already lost in abyrinth of hooded desires with Leonardo¡¯s hot lips sucking on me.

    Feeling him ontop me whilst his tongue and lips sucked, stroked and bite all sides of my neck caused me to have shattering moans that sounded like music to his ears.

    My hands fisted into his dark raven locks, gripping on to it. Leonardo¡¯s hands walked their way to my engorged breasts, softly moulding and kneading it through my off shoulder top.

    Oh Lord. This man.

    Never have I loved a man¡¯s touch so much.

    His lips left my neck and sensually trailed to my chest, nting kisses on the bare parts of my breasts that were already exposed.

    He sucked on them, his one hand pulling my off shoulder more downwards.

    He probably cared less if it cked.

    Leonardopletely littered my neck, throat and chest with his burning lips.

    His lips then moved upwards again, locking with my lips.

    I wrapped my legs around his waist and parted my lips, giving him the full ess to taste me.

    Leonardo kissed me so lustfully and hungrily, hands groping and fondling on to my breasts.

    I shuddered underneath him, releasing my soft cries of pleasure into the kiss.

    ¡°God you taste so sweet¡±Leonardo whispered against my lips.

    He slowly pulled back, making a cry of protest leave my lips at the absence of his body on mine.

    A satisfied smile was ced on his lips as his eyes hungrily scanned me.

    I followed the trail of his eyes to my neck and part of my bossoms that were visible to his lustful stare.

    Shit. My skin was littered with love bites.

    He gave me hickeys.  He had branded me as his.

    ¡°How do you like this?¡±he asked with a cocked brow.

    I nodded, my face heated up.

    ¡°Good you like it. Because you will be getting more of it from now¡±he huskily told me before crashing his lips on to mine again.

 Chapter 35

    Crystal walked happily downstairs like a dog with two tails. It had been a day since she arrived back in New York.

    She and Leonardo got back home around twelve in the morning.

    Crystal didn¡¯t waste no time in drifting off into sleep the moment her body touched  the soft sheets of her bed.

    She woke up with a beam on her face the next morning. The sun was bright, so was her life¨Catleast it was seeming bright.

    And it was all thanks to the one person she never believed could ever make her smile talk more of making her happy.

    As Crystal ventured downstairs, her minds raced to everything that transpired between her and Leonardo in Italy.

    ¡°I love you Crystal¡±

    It was just a sentence consisting of four words but this sentence was going to change her and Leonardo¡¯s rtionship forever.

    He was a force causing a tornado of emotions within her. His kisses, lips, sensual words, touch¨Ceverything yed in her head repeatedly like a movie on repeat.

    A little giggle escaped her lips as she reminisced about everything.

    Then a mild exhale left her lips as she remembered she had not set her eyes on Leonardo since the morning they bothnded in New York.

    By the time she woke up the next day, she was informed by Maya that Leonardo had left very early for work. She spent her day with the elderly, cheerful woman who was more than happy to see Crystal back.

    ¡°The mansion was very lonely without you in it Crystal¡±

    ¡°Oh how much I missed you both!¡±

    ¡°Leonardo looked extremely cheerful when I spotted him living for work early in the morning you know¡±

    ¡°This trip must have really strengthened your bond my child¡±

    Maya would blissfully say to her.

    Ofcourse, she enjoyed Maya¡¯spany but now she deeply missed having Leonardo around her.

    Gosh! That man was such a workaholic¡­ she thought to herself.

    He didn¡¯te back yesterday night and today also she hadn¡¯t set her eyes on him.

    She had be ustomed to having him around her always that his mere one day abscence now felt like torture to her.

    Her mind took a walk down memoryne as she remembered those periods where she would always fervently pray that Leonardo wouldn¡¯t return home.

    How ironic her life had turned out. If someone told her she woulde to crave for Leonardo¡¯s presence, she would have definitely called the person mad and refute it.

    But the universe has a strange way of doing things.

    She not only craved his presence but his touch. His lips left a burning desire in her, a desire she wanted to experience again.

    Crystal sniggered to herself, lost in her world of thoughts.

    ¡°You look so happy my child¡±Maya¡¯s voice cut through her thoughts.

    Crystal was immedately snapped out of her reverie and back to the present. She hadn¡¯t even realise she had reached the bottom of the stairs.

    She gazed at Maya, her lips slightly ajar. ¡°Uh-uh yeah. Goodmorning Maya¡±she stammered.

    ¡°Goodmorning my child. Breakfast is ready. Let¡¯s eat ok¡±Maya replied.

    Crystal and Maya walked towards the dinning area. As usual, a feast had been spread out on the dinning table.

    It was mouth watering and appetizing. Crystal didn¡¯t waste no time in feeding on the exquisite dishes ced before her hungry eyes.

    ¡°To be honest Crystal, your stay in this house has brought light to this mansion¡±Maya said as she stuffed a piece of pork into her mouth.

    Crystal turned to face her as they sat side by side. ¡°Really? Was this mansion filled with darkness before¡±Crystal jokingly inquired.

    Maya emitted a breathe out. ¡°Leonardo was cold, he hardly  smiled or even interacted with anyone. He was so secretive and very quiet. Though now he is still very secretive but I can see the changes in him. The morning he hastily left for work, I saw a glint in the eyes. It was happiness Crystal. My boy looked happy. He didn¡¯t tell me but from his bodynguage and the sparkle in his blue eyes, I knew fully well. It¡¯s all thanks to you dear¡±

    Crystal felt her heart warm by Maya¡¯s speech. She herself felt ted and it was because of Leonardo.

    She loved him. Yes she did.

    She hade to realise that.

    And she just wanted nothing more than to pour out her heart to Leonardo.

    ¡°Maya what can I say? Leonardo turned out not to be as bad as I envisioned him¡±Crysyal admitted to which Maya nodded her head.

    ¡°Crystal would you mind apanying me for shopping today?¡±

    ¡°Ofcourse¡±Crystal eximed much too quickly.

    She needed to go out. Without Leonardo in the mansion, everything felt like a blur. She had to atleast keep herself busy.

    ¡°What else would I be doing in this huge mansion? I¡¯ll love to follow you for shopping¡±Crystal happily chirped.

    A chortle left Maya¡¯s lips. ¡°When we are done eating then. Thank you dear¡±

    ¡°Anytime Maya¡± Crystal replied as she took a bite of the pork in her te.

    * * * * * * * * * *

    ¡°Maya I¡¯m telling you, that shopkeeper is weird as fuck. Thedy was literally passing winks at you¡±Crystal told Maya as she gripped on to two shopping bags filled with grocery.

    Maya couldn¡¯t control her fits ofughter. ¡°You mean that young red haired was winking at me? I thought she was just being nice¡±

    Crystal sniggered at her reply. ¡°Nope. I think she likes you. Or she probably thinks I and you are you know¡­.¡±

    ¡°What!¡±Maya eximed,ughing even harder as they stepped into the mansion.

    ¡°Oh Lord in heaven. Crystal..¡±Maya said in betweenughs.

    ¡°Teens today have crazy thoughts¡±Crystal said to Maya, facing her.

    ¡°Wee you both!¡±A rich voice boomed as it approached the living room.

    Crystal gave longing eyes the minute she spotted the person from which the voice emitted from.

    It was Leonardo.

    ¡°Leonardo!¡±she joyfully eximed to her own surprise, dropping the grocery bags and running over to hug him.

    Leonardo gave a low pitched chuckle, holding on to Crystal by the waist.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you would miss me like this¡±Leonardo teasingly said as he let go of Crystal.

    Maya gave a fake cough which made Crystal turn to face her at once, awkwardness webbed all over her face.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for dropping the bags Maya¡±Crystal immediately apologised, walking over to carry them.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the bags Crystal. I can see how much you missed Leonardo. I¡¯ll tell one of the workers to bring it¡±Maya softly said to Crystal which got her at ease.

    ¡°Irina¡±Maya called out as she walked into the kitchen.

    ¡°So¡­¡± Leonardo boyishly began,ing over to Crystal and pivoting her around to face him.

    ¡°Let go of me. I¡¯m angry with you¡±Crystal huffed, folding her arms.

    ¡°Really? Just few mintes ago you threw yourself at me and now you are angry¡±Leonardo cheekily gave utterance to.

    Crystal eyed him. ¡°We arrived back in New York and you didn¡¯t waste any time in storming off to work the next day. You didn¡¯t evene home that night? Where did you spend the night huh?¡±

    Leonardo gave her no reply but a lustful stare.

    ¡°What the hell are you staring at?¡±Crystal asked with furrowed brows.

    ¡°Sembri cos¨¬ sexy quando sei arrabbiato¡± Leonardo gravelly said.

    ¡°What does that mean?¡±Crystal inquired.

    ¡°You look so hot when you are angry doll¡±Leonardo tranted causing Crystal to shiver as she felt her breathing halt in her lungs.

    ¡°Ok tell me, how can I make it up to you my love?¡±Leonardo said in a whisper.

    ¡°Let¡¯s spend time together¡±Crystal quickly replied.

    ¡°Where amore mio- my love?¡±

    Crystal thought for some time, her head tilting back and forth.

    ¡°The beach!¡±she happily eximed with a click of her fingers.

    ¡°As you wish. When can we go?¡±

    ¡°Right now if possible¡±Crystal requested.

    Leonardo gave a mischievous smirk.

    ¡°Ok be¡± he whispered into her ear.

    * * * * * * * *

    Crystalid on the cold sandy ground of the beach, looking up at the brilliant sky that had now being adorned by shes of pink and orange colours.

    The roaring waves continuously formed a white foam upon hitting the rocks in the beach.  The various pebbles in the sandy shore of the beach made it glimmer against the rays of the calming sunset.

    The seagulls soared in the air, riding with the wind.

    Sunset was beautiful. It was amazing and spell bounding.

    Something then dropped on her skin. A drop of water. At once Crystal began feeling sprinkles and sshes of water drop on her.

    She immedately bolted up in a sh, turning to face Leonardo who held a bottle of water.

    ¡°What the hell. I¡¯ll definitely do my own too Leo¡±Crystal yfully said as she quickly grabbed the water from his hold.

    Together they raced about in the beach, Crystal pursuing him and throwing sshes of water on him until the bottle of water had been fully emptied.

    Leonardo at once grabbed her off the ground from behind causing her to shriek.

    ¡°I¡¯ll plunge you into the waters now¡±he threatened her.

    Crystal hit his arm vigorously.

    ¡°Leonardo no.. no please¡±

    ¡°I like it when you beg me¡± he sultrily whispered against her ear before dropping her down.

    Crystal hit his chest in retaliation the moment her feet touched the ground.

    ¡°Let¡¯s walk together baby¡± Leonardo offered.

    Crystal nodded to his request.

    Light and refreshing, the breeze kissed against their skin, gliding through their hairs and pushing it against their face.

    The sand squished between their toes as they gaily walked along the shores of the beach bank.

    ¡°Maya told me you are seeming more happy now¡±Crysyal said attempting to start off a conversation.

    Leonardo gave her knowing eyes. ¡°Ofcourse. Because of you baby¡±

    Crystal felt a blush spread across her cheeks.

    She tucked her hair behind her ear as they kept on walking. ¡°But what would be of our umm rtionship?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand Crystal¡±Leonardo said as he stopped to face her.

    ¡°I mean would we end up together? Or we won¡¯t. I don¡¯t want us to be in a fling¡­¡±

    Leonardo at once ced a finger on her lips, ¡°What I feel for you isn¡¯t going to be a fling Crystal. It is not even to start with. You belong to me and me alone. We will definitely end up together. Do you really think I¡¯ll let you stay with another guy?¡±

    Crystal stared at him, her cheeks going scarlet red.

    She wanted to reply but Leonardo spoke up in an instant. ¡°I love you ok¡±

    ¡°And I don¡¯t want to you to say it back if you are not sure of what you feel ok Crystal. No rush¡±Leonardo added.

    Crystal just stared at him with lips parted. He winked at her and began walking whilst she stood on the spot.

    He was being patient with her. He was being everything she always wanted.

    She loved this man.

    She took a step forward wanting to call out to Leonardo when she felt a sharp stinging pain pierce through her shoulder.

    She slowly gazed down at it and saw a ruby red liquid seeping out of a hole in her flesh.

    Her hands sweeped over it and her eyes widened in horror.

    Blood.

    It spread rapidly round the area, tainting her pink top and giving it an awful shade of red.

    The liquid dropped on the sands of the beach, living its red stains on the sands.

    Her heart became rapid in beat so also did her breathing. Another agonising pain shot through her.

    This time, it was right above her left breast.

    Like it¡¯s bloody counterpart, it was spreading rapidly, tainting her top with its scarlet red stains.

    Leonardo didn¡¯t seem to notice as he walked ahead of her.

    She had been shot.

    But no sound was heard.

    She had been shot by a silencer.

    Then came the wave of pain so strong, it got her knees buckling to the ground.

    ¡°Leonardo!¡±she screamed out in pain, her knees crumbling to the ground.

    Leonardo at once turned and his heart sank. He ran over to Crystal and held on to her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t close your eyes please¡± he pleaded.

    What followed next  was the vociferous noise of gunshots being fired as Leonardo thundered to his goons who rushed towards them.

    Crystal at this moment was slipping into unconsciousness. Her body felt light and an excruciating pain was coursing through her that she found it almost difficult to breathe properly.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    ¡°You will be fine I promise you my love¡±Leonardo whispered as Crystal gave herself off into the darkness that shrouded her vision.

 Chapter 36

    Pain is crushing, agonising and it is merciless. It is capable of breaking even the strongest minds, shattering them to smithereens and pulling them into a pithole of agonising torture.

    Once it¡¯s makes its ugly head known, it sweeps every thing good away like a vicious storm and twist them against you.

    It makes you beg. It makes you crumble. It makes you numb and void.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    Her eyes slowly opened to a golden glow spread across the dark room, illuminating it fairly. Although her eyesight was weak, her ears could hear distant crackling of fire.

    The fireglow danced by the side of her vision. This clearly wasn¡¯t her room.

    She didn¡¯t have her firece built in her room.

    It then dawned her that she was in Leonardo¡¯s room.

    Her head spinned as she tried to decipher what had happened to her.

    Like aet, the memories hit her.

    She was shot.

    Crystal had been falling in and out of consciousness. First time, her weak eyelids fluttered open in a car.

    She wasid at the backseat, cradled up in a warm, strong embrace.

    Then she awoke in a blinding white room with white ceilings. There were a mixture of voices, voices she could not decipher.

    She faintly remembered being rushed somewhere on a stretcher whilst a man on medical masks peered down at her.

    The memory was more hazy than the first.

    Now being her third consciousness, she was met with a dark room.

    No sign of panic or distress, just absolute tranquility and quietness. The only sound heard was the sound of the fire crackling, zing across the room.

    Her mouth felt acidic, her throat felt dry and her body felt so stiff and immovable.

    ¡°What happened? Who is here?¡± A dry whisper pushed past her ky, cracked lips. Crystal wasn¡¯t sure anyone was around in the room or if anyone heard her.

    Her eyelids were too weak to strain themselves and search the darkness for any slight presence of another person in the room.

    At once, her ears caught shuffling of feets from the other side of the room followed by hasty footsteps.

    Stunned and curious, she followed the sound of the footsteps.

    An elderly woman approached the bed. Her movements were categorised by fear and dread.

    ¡°Crystal¡± her voice was soft and calming, her petite figure falling into Crystal¡¯s sight. Her brown tender eyes stared down at Crystal¡¯s feeble form.

    It was Maya.

    ¡°How are you doing my child?¡±Maya asked, leaning down and caressing her forehead.

    Crystal perused her zed eyes.

    They had no sign of liveliness in them. They looked reddened and her eyebags were clearly puffed out.

    She had been crying.

    Lines drew over her forehead and Crystal could make out tears forming again in Maya¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°W-water please¡±Crystal requested.

    Maya immedately reached for the jug of water that was on the bedstand and poured it to her in a ss.

    Crystal painstakingly sat up a little and collected the ss of water from Maya. Her movements were shaky and her breathing was rapid.

    ¡°Careful child¡± Maya advised as she sat on the bed, next to Crystal¡¯s weak frame.

    A faint smile drew on Crystal¡¯s face and she sculled down the ss of water to quench her thirst and wet her desert throat.

    ¡°How long have I been unconscious Maya?¡±Crystal inquired of her state.

    Maya took the cup and ced it back on the bedstand. ¡°Two days my dear¡±

    Crystal gave a dip of head. Her eyes whipped to opened windows, the curtains carelessly swaying above them in the rhythm of the wind.

    The night was dark and starry, the luminous moon barely visible in the midst of hazy clouds.

    Maya followed her eyes to the thrown apart windows. ¡°Do you feel cold? Should I close the windows?¡± She asked with concern written over her face.

    ¡°No no. It¡¯s fine Maya¡±Crystal stopped her just before she attempted to stand.

    ¡°Where is Leonardo?¡±Crystal asked as her gaze locked back with Maya¡¯s.

    A brief silence settled itself between them.

    ¡°He isn¡¯t here¡±Maya slowly let out the words from her mouth.

    Crystal had a pained stare on her face. ¡°Then where is he? Where could he be?¡±She persisted further.

    ¡°He hasn¡¯t been around¡±

    ¡°For how long?¡±Crystal queried Maya, her voice raspy in speech.

    ¡°Since you had been unconscious¡±Maya confessed with a slight exhale.

    Crystal gasped, her eyes bing stung with tears.

    The man who imed he loved her hadn¡¯t even been around with her throughout her days of unconsciousness. What the hell.

    She expected to see Leonardo by her side, cradling her in his warm embrace or at least holding on to her her pale fingers while she was unconscious just like he had always did when she fell ill.

    Or was he acting like this because this time it wasn¡¯t his fault that she got shot? Was he being absent because he didn¡¯t feel guilty unlike thest time where his attitude towards her and chase pushed her to sleep in the shower in a bid to drown her tears.

    ¡°No please don¡¯t get sad my child¡± Maya cut into her depressing thoughts.

    ¡°Why?¡±her shaky voice responded.

    ¡°Leonardo cares for you my child¡± Maya interceeded on his behalf.

    ¡°If he did care he should have been with me through out the days of my unconsciousness¡±Crystal refuted.

    ¡°And he should have been the one I should have seen now instead of you Maya¡±Crystal added under her breath.

    Maya reached over for her cheeks, softly caressing them. ¡°He knows I can look after you. He left you under my care. He is probably busy¡±

    Crystal shook her head. If reverse was the case, she knew very well she wouldn¡¯t have left Leonardo¡¯s side for a second.

    Now she is finally fully conscious only to be told that the man who she loves and who said he loved her wasn¡¯t even around through out her unconscious state.

    ¡°Busy with what? Something more important than me?¡± Crystal asked with a false chuckle.

    Maya had a sorry look on her face as she listened to Crystal.

    No doubt the young woman was hurt.

    ¡°Leonardo why are you trying to distance yourself from Crystal? She looks so broken¡± Maya thought within herself.

    ¡°Who brought me back to the house?¡±Crystal quizzically asked.

    ¡°The ambnce child. Leonardo must have instructed them to bring you back home¡±Maya answered, shing Crystal a tender smile.

    Crystal exhaled and attempted to move her upper body but a sharp pain shot through her body like electricity jolts.

    ¡°Careful child. You are injured you know¡±Maya reminded her to which she nodded.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go bring you dinner ok. You must be starving¡±Maya offered before pecking her sweetly on her forehead and exiting the room.

    Crystal watched Maya go. She pulled her lips in tightly in order to stop herself from sobbing.

    Why would Leonardo abandon her when he knew fully well she needed him the most now?

    Not even decency to show up in between the days she was unconscious even if it was just for an hour.

    What could he be busy with?

    What could be more important than checking up on her?

 Chapter 37

    LEONARDO

    ¡°In the past four months¡± I began, leaning back into my chair and puffing out cigarette smokes into the air. ¡°Our drugs have always had a hard time in passing through Ecuador and Panama which borders Columbia¡±

    I studied the facial expression of Stefano harden, his fists clenching as it encircled the ss of water ced before him.

    Stefano oversaw the distribution of our drugs through the boarders of Ecuador to Columbia and also from Paraguay to Argentina.

    ¡°Look Stefano, I got word that the drugs had been recovered¡±I told him.

    ¡°Well thanks to me¡±I conceitedly added. ¡°But I always encounter difficulties when those fucking drugs are being sent through the boarders of Ecuador and Columbia and I find it so surprising since I have high ssed politicians in my pay roll and I pay those bitches sitting in the embassy and boarder¡± I grimaced at Stefano.

    I watched his mind raced far, probably thinking of an exnation to defend himself.

    ¡°W-well y-you can¡¯t me me. The custom officers are changed on a regr and¡­¡±Stefano stuttered in his speech with lips quivering.

    ¡°I have men situated at the boarders of Brazil by Uruguay to the South, Bolivia to the South West and Guyana to the east. My drugs go in smoothly without any hassle. Luca and his underbosses oversees that and I pay the politicians lesspared to what I pay those in Ecuador and Columbia¡± I cut in sharply, leaning forward and banging my fist on the broad mahogany table that seperated I and Stefano.

    He should thank his stars that I can¡¯t reach forward and snap his damn bloody neck. I already had a lot dealing with and I didn¡¯t want any more mishaps.

    ¡°Stefano where does the money I send to Ecuador and Columbia go? Into your pockets?¡±I inquired, my lips pulling to a scowl.

    Stefano looked like he could pee in his pants. He immedately gulped down the ss of water.

    ¡°C¡¯mon we are business partners Leonardo. How could you possibly think I can cheat you?¡±

    ¡°We are not business partners!¡±I yelled in rage. ¡°You are my pawn. You are just the face of the Constanzo family in Ecuador and Columbia. I call the shots and I control what happens¡± I reminded him gruffly.

    Pathetic how he could possibly think we are equals. I should be home with  my love, Crystal.

    But I am here dealing with this damn bloody motherfucker.

    ¡°I want transaction records of all the trades that has taken ce in Ecuador and Columbia in thest four months within a week Stefano¡±I bellowed my orders to which he grudgingly gave a nod of his head.

    I lulled my head backwards on the chair as Stefano cleared his throat to speak.

    ¡°I got your ns for the new drug farm. But¡­ I..¡±He spoke hesitantly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand it¡±he confessed.

    ¡°What is there not to understand?¡± I scoffed at Stefano.

    ¡°My profit¡±he simply stated.

    ¡°I¡¯m cutting it short¡±I replied without batting an eyelid at him. My eyes roved upwards with more foggy cigarettes smoke puffing out of my parted lips.

    ¡°You can¡¯t do that¡±Stefano retorted. I brought my gaze to his.

    I could see the sh of anger and bewilderment registered all over his face.

    ¡°And why can¡¯t I?¡±I cockily asked.

    ¡°Because I work my ass out too capo dei capi. I not only supply those drugs to Ecuador but I supply from New Mexico down to Columbia¡±

    ¡°Marcello will take over that from you. I¡¯ve sent him a contract for that. He will supply those drugs to some parts of Europe too andrgely Africa and the Middle East. Dario and the other capos will oversee the distribution in the Middle East¡±I said with a smirk.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you are doing this to me capo¡± Stefano uttered in shock.

    I ignored his wave of shock expressions. ¡°You will only recieve payment from the sale of narcotine. All other like heroine, opium, cocaine, Crystal methamphetamine and the likes are all out of your reach¡±

    ¡°What the fuck! The drug farm in Columbia isn¡¯t even big enough to handle this much work load¡±Stefano raised his tone, hints of frustration and annoyance in it.

    I chuckled at his silly and weak excuses. ¡°I purchased a brand new farm. Eighty hectares to be precise.  A much biggerb is already functioning there¡±

    He didn¡¯t see thating did he? I gave a sly grin at him. The bitch thought he could y smart.

    I slid Stefano a copy of the amended contract whilst perusing his bodynguage.

    Stefano opened the contract, annoyance clearly visible in his features.

    ¡°Sign the contract¡±I authoritativelymanded.

    ¡°You can¡¯t do this to me Leo. C¡¯mon¡±he let out a cry of protest.

    I wasn¡¯t in for all this emotional drama. I immedately snapped my fingers and the guard standing by the door way to my office walked inside.  He gave me an envelope to which I brought out its contents.

    I took out snapshots of Stefano¡¯s wife and daughter and threw it in the air.

    One fell close to Stefano and he at once picked it.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    Horror seized him the moment heid eyes on the image of his daughter and wife. I bet the cunt never knew I would find out that he was married.

    ¡°Linda aged 28 and Vanessa aged 10. Such beautiful and lovely females. A single bullet through their foreheads is enough to end their lives¡±I savagely spat.

    I cared less about how he felt.

    ¡°This was taken¡­¡±Stefano horridly whispered.

    ¡°This morning¡± Ipleted for him.

    ¡°Now are you doing this the easy way or the hard way?¡±I gravelly asked.

    His eyes snapped to meet mine and his body shook like a leaf in a violent storm. He grudgingly faced the contract and grabbed a pen to sign it.

    ¡°Great. Now get out. I¡¯ll see you when I need you¡±I ordered, venomced in my tone.

    He stumped out my office whilst I watched him go with a satisfied smirk.

    ¡°Stefano looked very angry when he walked out of your office¡± Marco, one of my capos said with a chuckle as he walked into my office.

    Marco was not only part of my mafia but he was like a brother to me. I could count on him whenver I needed him. We were like fire and ice.

    Me being fire and him being ice.

    ¡°The cunt thought he could cheat me and walk away scot free¡±I told him leaning forward and cing my one hand on the table.

    ¡°Well you did let him go scot free without harming him¡±Marco mused.

    ¡°I taught him a lesson. I have more important things to worry about. I should be with Crystal right now¡±

    Marco exhaled. He knew about my rtionship with Crystal. He was also aware of the hit man sent to gun me but unfortunately Crystal got shot.

    I had already given orders to my capos and underbosses under their various divisions to find whoever it was took that shot at my woman.

    Just thinking of it got my fist all balled up. She literally took a bullet for me. She could have died if not for the timely intervention of the doctors.

    I should be by her side now, holding on to her hand and dering how much I loved her but I was here, dealing with idiots and also trying to trace the location of the bloody bitch that shot at my Crystal.

    ¡°Leonardo, Mario and Alberto are on the case. Their underbosses are on it. We will get whoever did this¡±Marco assured me.

    I knew very well that we would catch the mother fucker.

    My jaws clenched and my Adams apple gobbled. ¡°I know we will. And once Iy my hands on his filthy body, I¡¯ll definitely ughter him like a pig¡±

 Chapter 38

    CRYSTAL

    I sat on a stool with Maya in the kitchen, helping her in preparation for dinner.

    It¡¯s been a week since I got my almost fatal gun shot wound. Some times I couldn¡¯t help myself but think of what would have be of my fate if I wasn¡¯t rushed to the hospital on time.

    I could have been six feets below the ground by now. My shoulder still felt sore. It all felt like a dream to me but the bandages on my chest served as a reminder for my almost near death experience.

    But one question that still got me bothered was who shot me?

    And why?

    Could it be rted to Leonardo¡¯s mafia or something else?

    I had no enemies if I could vividly remember. Hell I was too broke to make enemies.

    My whole life revolved around fending for I and Mabel until Leonardo¡¯s arrival into my life.

    Leonardo had suddenly vanished into thin air. It hurt me deeply whenever I thought of him.

    I mean the dude said he loved me! Who does this to someone they imed to love?!

    Everyday, with every hour, minute, seconds and nano second that passed, I would always fervently pray for Leonardo to show up but he never did.

    I would wait like a loyal dog waiting on its master arrival but with every passing moment, my hopes would be dashed away like sands.

    I atleast thought he would send a message for me through Maya but he didn¡¯t.

    It felt like he hadpletely abandoned me.

    No doubt my shooting incident had something to do with his mafia.

    I just felt that way.

    But Leonardo wasn¡¯t around to even offer me moral support.

    I just had only Maya.

    Was this what loving someone meant to him? You can¡¯t just say you love some one without showing it.

    Love is what you do not what you say. When I needed Leonardo¡¯s presence the most, when I needed that warmth and empathy from him, he disappeared like a mist.

    I tried to convince myself that probably he was busy with office issues keeping in mind that he took off days from work just to stay by me  when I fell sick.

    I felt it was the reason he couldn¡¯te see me when I was unconscious. But now, a whole week had passed by and Leonardo was no where in sight.

    I was beginning to feel that the only reason he acted nice to me was because he felt guilty and he didn¡¯t want me to die on his expensive property.

    He will probably have to deal with a lot of paper works if that should have happened.

    But then I could still clearly remember the way he confessed his feelings to me in Italy.

    I never begged him for it.

    I was beginning to find him tolerable and I was beginning to also enjoy hispany. If all these had been a farcade from the beginning, why did he have to tell me that he loved me?

    Was it necessary?

    It was not. There was seriously no need for him to have brought in emotions into it if he clearly never loved me.

    Thinking of all these usually brought tears to my eyes.

    Leonardo totally abandoned me like I didn¡¯t even exist.

    I was a fool for thinking he loved me.

    He never did.

    He never will.

    ¡°Crystal¡±Maya called out to me drawing my attention back to the kitchen we were in.

    My eyes quickly whipped to hers and I ced my hand on the kitchen counter.

    ¡°Yes Maya¡±

    She intently watched my features. I¡¯m sure she knew what was bothering me.

    ¡°You were thinking of him again weren¡¯t you?¡±She asked, her voice carrying pain in them.

    I couldn¡¯t reply. I averted my gaze from hers and darted it to my fingers ced on the kitchen counter.

    ¡°Dear please you will end up overthinking and you will get anxiety from this. Stop thinking about Leonardo. I assure you..¡±

    ¡°Maya please¡±I cut her short and upheaved my hands at her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t assure me of Leonardoing to check up on me please. I¡¯m tired¡±I pleaded.

    Though difficult, I had forced myself to ept the fact that he never loved me the way he said he did.

    I never got the chance to confess my feelings to him and I am d I didn¡¯t.

    I was feeling so heartbroken. What would happen if we actually decided to get into a rtionship?

    He will definitely be the death of me.

    ¡°Ok child¡± Maya epted.

    A faint smile spread across my face.

    Maya stood up from her stool suddenly, hands at akimbo.

    ¡°What is wrong Maya?¡±

    ¡°I knew I was forgetting something. We are out of butter child. I bought it but I must have forgot it at the supermarket¡±she responded.

    ¡°No problem. I can go help you take it¡±I offered with a more bright smile.

    Her eyes had a glint in them ¡°Thank you child¡±

    She dipped her hand into her sweater pocket and brought out a reciept. ¡°Here is the reciept child. Just tell the shopkeeper you want to pick up the butter ok and show her this reciept¡±

    I took it with grateful eyes and made my way out of the kitchen but stopped in a second the moment my eyesnded on the one person I didn¡¯t hope to see any time soon.

    Leonardo.

    His dark hair was slicked, let to fall and cascade by the nape of his neck. Not a single hair was out of ce.

    He was on a perfectly ironed white shirt that hugged his body and showed of his taunting muscles coupled with ck trousers. A few buttons of his shirt as I could spot were let out, a skull shape ne dangling inbetwen.

    My breathing got caged in my lungs the moment our eyes locked. It seemed like he just walked into the mansion.

    He took of his sunshades and stared at me, his blue steel orbs perusing my features.

    I wanted to ignore him the way he had been ignoring me but I suddenly felt this pang of anger brew up within my chest.

    I angrily walked towards him, eyes ring at him.

    He wasn¡¯t surprised by my change of facial expression.

    His stood tall, his height towering above mine.

    ¡°Where have you been?¡±I seethed in anger.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been busy Crystal¡±He replied abruptly.

    I felt the air in the living room rise as well as my anger.

    Really?

    That was all he could say?

    ¡°Is that all you can say?¡±I shot back in a scowl.

    I was trying so hard not to raise my voice but this man was making it so impossible for me.

    ¡°What did you expect me to say?¡±He rhetorically asked.

    ¡°You are kidding right¡± I said in disbelief, shaking my head at him.

    ¡°I was shot Leonardo! Shot twice. You weren¡¯t with me when I was unconscious and through out the past one week you could not evene check up on me!¡±I yelled in exasperation.

    My eyebrows were pulled up hinting anger in them.

    My voice must have probably gotten the attention of Maya as she scurried into the living room immedately.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you got shot but I said I was busy. Don¡¯t raise your voice at me Miss Crystal!¡±Leonardo boomed back at me.

    I was totally bbergasted. Who was this man standing in front of me?

    Was he the same Leonardo that professed love to me? Was he the same kind, sweet and loving Leonardo or this was the cold, heartless and selfish Leonardo?

    I felt so speechless. I couldn¡¯t even argue anymore. If he could not see how his attitude was hurting me then I wouldn¡¯t make him see that.

    I walked towards the door but not before ring at him.

    ¡°And where do you think you are going?¡±He asked gravelly making me stop in my tracks.

    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business¡±I replied evasively. I could hear his footsteps approaching me.

    I gulped and my knees suddenly felt weak but I hid my fear with a stoic expression on my face.

    ¡°I don¡¯t even want to know where you are going but you aren¡¯t leaving the walls of this mansion for any reason whatsoever¡±He groggy spoke in my ear.

    I turned back in a fluid motion, a gasp pushing past my lips.

    ¡°Are you insane? Oh now you want to go back to your former self and keep me locked within this fucking house?¡±I scoffed at him.

    He gave a dark chuckle. ¡°See it however you want to Crystal but you arent leaving this mansion. I suggest you go back to my room¡±

    I took a nce at Maya and she gave me pleading eyes for me to listen to Leonardo.

    ¡°Why are you doing this to me!? What is your problem? Is it something I did? Why are you suddenly giving me this shitty attitude!¡±

    ¡°Crystal!¡±he roared causing me to almost jump out of my skin and recoil in fear.

    ¡°I make the rules here. You will obey me. You aren¡¯t leaving this mansion for any reason whatsoever and it¡¯s final. See it or call it whatever you want, I don¡¯t give two fucks. If I may  remind you, I bought you Crystal, so for your own good I¡¯ll advise you not to disobey me¡±He warned, his index finger pointing to me.

    Tears pooled in my eyes as I listened to him.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    I immedately dashed out of his presence, my feet racing towards the staircase.

    I thought Leonardo had changed.

    I thought he was now going to be good, nice and caring to me.

    I felt now he wouldn¡¯t address me as a meremodity or as his toy.

    But it took a gun wound for the beast in him toe out again.

    Leonardo can never change.

    I thought there was good in him but now he may be just a naturally bad person.

 Chapter 39

    The days rolled by like a blur in the Mansion. It had been weeks since Leonardo had put back his cold hearted, vile mask towards Crystal.

    Their rtionship was now very strained. Leonardo seldomly was around and he when he was around, he avoided and ignored Crystal like a deadly gue.

    It all still felt like a bad dream to Crystal. A very bad dream she wished to wake up from.

    The sudden change in Leonardo¡¯s attitude was rming. It shook Crystal to the core, smashing to smithereens any hope she had of actually having a future with Leonardo.

    He became more cold to her than he was when she first arrived in the mansion.

    Atleast then Leonardo would asionally demand for her presence in the dinning room and he would always want to keep his steady gaze on her.

    But reverse was the case now. He hardly even looked her way talk more of calling her to eat with him.

    Though they lived together, they had be strangers to each other. Whenever Leonardo and her would bump by in the hallway, he would stride past her without even  giving her a second nce.

    Crystal would be left to stare at his tall figure walk away, tears pooling in her eyes and distorting her vision.

    It is said that you can see love in someone¡¯s eyes. Whatever emotions and feelings a person has can be deciphered just by staring into their eyes.

    But for Crystal, whenever she was opportuned to stare into those cold blue eyes, colder than ciers, Crystal would see nothing but emptiness in it.

    No trace of emotions, no love, hate, anger or resentment, just an empty, hollow shell.

    She feared to look his way.

    His stare gave her spine chilling dread that would always race through her, reminding her of the fact that he felt nothing towards her again.

    The day seemed to drag by quickly today. Well Maya had kept herpany¨Cas usual.

    Sshes of orange, pink, and red colours decorated the sky, shing its beautiful shadows over the Constanzo mansion. The sunset was enticing and glorious as Crystal stared at it through her wide open windows.

    It was all rosy and salmon-pink, the thin strips of cloud turning shimmering gold with each passing second.

    She flopped her head back on the pillows of her bed, eyes staring at the empty ceilings as if the solutions to her and Leonardo¡¯s sour rtionship was written on it.

    She ate dinner early this night. The only thing she needed now was the sleep which she so believed could take her away from this painful reality and into her dreams.

    The soft rays of the now shining moon filtered through the swaying curtains of her window.

    Crystal closed her eyes, forcing herself to cave into slumber.

    Some few minutester, she heard the slight twist of her door knob.

    Her eyes flew open immedately. What followed next was the heavy thumping of footsteps.

    The figure of the sudden intruder, she could not decipher as the person remained in the shadows. The only illuminated part of her room was her bed which was being graced by the luminous beams of the moon.

    ¡°Maya?¡± Crystal called out a little scared with shaky voice.

    Like a slithering serpent, Leonardo stepped out from the shadows. He approached her bed, his movements tottering and awkward as if he was trying to keep himself from toppling over.

    An almost empty bottle of whiskey was in his one hand, a very small amount of the liquor swirling inside the bottle.

    ¡°Crystal¡±his thick, gruff ented voice called out to her as he stumbled into her curious sight.

    Crystal was surprised as hell.

    Last time she remembered, Leonardopletely made sure to strain their rtionship, breaking the bridge they were trying to form. He never did enter her room for any thing neither did he look her way.

    He never bothered her for any thing at all in the mansion. He let her do her thing but kept his distance like she was a leper.

    So what was he doing in her room looking slightly drunk?

    Leonardo stumbled into her sight, his zed blue eyes staring down at her trepadised and confused eyes.

    Sculling down the remaining contents of the liquor and cing the empty bottle on the vanity table, Leonardo slumped down on Crystal¡¯s bed but he was careful not to hit her in the process.

    This was the first time Crystal was seeing Leonardo so unhinged before her eyes.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What happened to you Leonardo?¡±She softly asked.

    With head downcasted, Leonardo proceeded to speak to her- first thing he had ever said to her since more than three weeks. ¡°It¡¯s all my fault¡±he slurred in his speech.

    Crystal was dazed.

    ¡°You took the bullets meant for me. You shouldn¡¯t be in this pain Crystal¡±he moved his eyes to stare down at her pale face.

    Crystal couldn¡¯t believe her ears. Well she shouldn¡¯t be surprised. She knew fully well Leonardo¡¯s world was dangerous.

    Still she found it hard to process what Leonardo said.

    Someone out there or probably some people literally wanted Leonardo dead.

    Her body shivered like she had been doused in cold water.

    She made an attempt to sit up but Leonardo inched closer to her. ¡°Don¡¯t do that¡± he ordered gruffly. Even when tipsy, his voice stillmanded authority that one wouldn¡¯t want to dare.

    Leonardo then reached out his arm to tuck a loose strand of hair from her face to her ear. He was being so gentle with her that she felt it was a dream.

    A dream that was too good to actually be true.

    She stared into his eyes, those cold orbs held a million emotions locked within them. She winced the moment Leonardo caressed her bandaged shoulder.

    ¡°Have you found out who did it?¡±she inquired.

    He shook his head at her. ¡°But when I do, God helps him or her¡±he savagely replied.

    ¡°Leonardo you look stressed. You should go sleep¡± Crystal said after studying his facial features.

    ¡°Why are you here anyways?¡±She blurted out to her own surprise. That question had been living free rent in her head the moment he walked into her room.

    ¡°What are you doing in my room talking to me? I thought you left me. You should have sent Maya. She always keeps mepany¡±Crystal spat without no iota of fear in her.

    If Leonardo thought he could dissapear for days then suddenly show up acting all nice towards her and expecting her to wee him back into her life and heart with open arms then he was definitely wrong.

    ¡°I am not leaving you Crystal¡± his voice sounding serious.

    Crystal gave a false, painful chuckle. ¡°Well you did. You abandoned me for days, gave me a shitty attitude, pushed me away from you and ignored me like a gue. You banned me from even stepping outside the doors of the mansion. And all these areing from someone who eagerly confessed that he loved me. Do you think love is a joke huh!?¡±

    All the built up emotions that had been stored within her over the weeks, Crystal let them all out.

    Anger and resentment shed like lightening inside her eyes as her chest began heaving up and down repeatedly.

    ¡°Fucking talk! Do you think love involves ignoring the one you im to love? Treating them like theymitted a grevious sin whereas they did nothing?! Huh? Leonardo that is not love. You don¡¯t only talk about love, you disy it too in your actions. The time I needed you the most, you abandoned me. You shoved me aside like I was trash and treated me like you hated me and now you think you can juste back and sweet talk me and I¡¯ll stupidly ept you and wee you back? Well you are wrong!¡±Crystal seethed with rage dancing in her eyes for Leonardo.

    Leonardo let her pour out her emotions to him. He knew the steps he took definitely caused her pain but it wasn¡¯t just her that felt pain.

    He felt it too. Staying away from her had to be the hardest thing for him to ever have done.

    Seeing her pained stare when ever they crossed paths in the hallway was too much for him to bear.

    Love was indeed so powerful. It had brought him to his knees.

    ¡°I know how you feel Crystal. I had to distance myself away from you to protect you¡±Leonardo exined.

    ¡°W-what?¡±

    ¡°Yes Crystal¡±he softly replied, caressing her blonde locks that dangled across her shoulders.

    ¡°I was scared of loosing you. This is making the second time Crystal.  First you fell ill and now you got shot. All because of me. I had to protect you. Keeping my distance away from you and acting cold hearted again was the only way I could get you to obey my orders and stay within the mansion. If I told you softly I knew somehow you would have still broken my rules. I was just scared. Maybe my method was bad but I had good intentions. And I¡¯m deeply sorry for noting to check upon you. Crystal I love you. Through out these weeks I¡¯ve been working, trying to trace who was responsible for your shooting. Crystal I care about you so deeply. More than you can ever know. I would never stop caring¡±

    An unsettling silence settled into the room.

    Crystal felt tongue tied. His words felt so deep and sincere. She could barely even react. She just stared open mouthed at him.

    Leonardo watched her for some minutes before he began to move away.

    ¡°Don¡¯t go please¡± Crystal pleaded, breaking the awkward silence between them as she held on to the edges of his sleeve making him abruptly stop.

    She thought she could shun him off but maybe she was wrong. Seeing him so vulnerable, sincere and pained got her heart shattering.

    This was the Leonardo she knew and wanted.

    She didn¡¯t want to be left alone. She had missed hispany so badly.

    Leonardoid on the bed without any hesitation. He wasn¡¯t a man to cave into people¡¯s desires but for Crystal, he didn¡¯t mind worshipping the very ground she walked on.

    Crystal sumbed into his embrace, doused in the cid moment and savouring the feeling.

    Leonardo inched closer to her face until she could smell the burning alcohol that scented all over his face.

    But she didn¡¯t mind. Whenever he stared at her this way, she found it hard to think of him as such a vile, selfish and evil person. Now he wasingpletely undone in her stare.

    They both captured each other¡¯s gaze, their heart beat syncing and breath mingling. Her lips parted and her head inched closer towards his.

    Anticipating something dangerous and frightening, their lips locked with each other. Time freezed in a moment for  both of them.

    They were blind, blind to everything that was happening around them but their passionate and lustful kiss.

    Crystal¡¯s one hand caressed under his well defined cheekbones, feeling his skin under the pads of her fingers.

    Their lips moved with so much passion and craving for each other with neither of them wanting to pull out.

 Chapter 40

    Leonardo¡¯s tongue greedily explored her mouth, tasting every corner with such a lustful vigour. The kiss took her breath away¨C swayed her off her feet and caused a fervently burning sensation to soar within her.

    It felt so long since they got to taste each others lip. The kiss sparked a million butterflies fluttering in her core.  Her petite arms wrapped around Leonardos broad shoulder, tangling with his messy dark hair.

    She ran her hands through it and yanked a fistful of it.

    ¡°You are hurt¡±Leonardo raspily reminded her pulling back and panting. Pure, searing hot lust danced in his eyes.

    Crystal could see the desire, lust, need and want for her in his blue orbs. Most importantly, she could decipher concern in them too.

    It was clear as crystal.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine¡±Crystal reassured him.

    That was the only confirmation he needed to go on. His carouse hands trailed from her cheeks down to her neck and it slipped past her bandages. Crystal felt her toes curling up in delight.

    Her hands instantly left his hair to his shirt, undoing the buttons whilst he did same to her.

    They both yanked their shirts away, carelessly flinging it and not caring where itnded. Leonardo was cold and ruthless but his touch on her body was always feathery and light, tender and careful.

    Leonardo dragged his fingers down to her abdomen, he was studying her inch by inch.

    An airily moan left Crystal¡¯s lip feeling his fingers sensually rub at the waistline of her sweat pants.

    He hummed against her lips.

    ¡°You are so beautiful doll¡± his breath caressed her tender, plump lips.

    In a split second, he at once yanked her sweatpants down, slipping it past her knees and tugging on it till he had pulled it down her slender legs.

    His lips left her lips and trailed downwards, sucking, kissing and nibbling along the way.

    He pushed apart her thighs and his lips settled in between them.

    He gripped on to her thighs, nting wet, hot kisses on each side.

    asionally, he would softly bite it causing Crystal to quiver. He loved her reaction. It got him more filled up with arousal.

    He kissed her everywhere apart from where she wanted his lips to badly touch.

    He was torturing her and she had her senses lost in a hooded fog of desires. The mes sparked within her with each soft stroke and lick of her thighs by his expert tongue.

    Leonardo then brought his long slender fingers which began rubbing on her aching soaked bud through her panties.

    Crystal let out an airily splitting moan.

    ¡°Fuck¡±she gasped the moment he pushed her panties to a side, his fingers making contact with her wet aching mound.

    He stroked her soaked folds lightly with his fingers. It was the perfect torture.

    ¡°Please¡­¡±Crystal whined. Her body was set aze. An inferno was rocking her with each torturous stroke of Leonardo¡¯s fingers.

    ¡°More¡­.¡±the word flowed out of her lips before she could even stop herself.

    ¡°More what?¡±Leonardo asked raising his head up to get a view of her sensual cries, his fingers not leaving her wet pussy.

    ¡°More what Crystal?¡±he teased, his slender finger intruding partially into her pussy.

    Her hips bucked against his hands and leoanardo used his free hand to hold on to her thigh harder.

    ¡°Say it!¡±he demanded sharply

    ¡°I want you. More of you¡±a desperate cry left Crystal¡¯s lips.

    A devilish smile curled against Leonardo¡¯s lip and in an instant, he ripped her panties out, leaving her naked before his lustful eyes apart from the bandage she had that was wrapped around her shoulder and a part of her chest.

    He looked like a starved, ferocious wolf.

    He gazed down at her. He was going mad with lust. Every atom of this woman seemed to turn him on, arousing him with pulsating need and want. He leaned down and locked his lips on her once more.

    His lips began wandering from her lips to her neck. He gave her love bites, his tongue sensually sweeping her neck.

    His lips left her neck, skipping past her bandage, trailing lower.

    ¡°Leo wait¡±Crystal quickly protested, unsure of what ever he was doing.

    Leonardo instantly grabbed the hand she subconsciously stretched out, cing it above her head.

    ¡°Rx¡±Leonardo admonished. That single word spread an aching need between her thighs. Her fingers fisted into his hair, kneading his scalp the moment his lips dipped between her legs.

    He tortured her again. Kissing everywhere except the one ce she badly craved for his lips. An unconfined breathless moan pushed out of her parted lips.

    ¡°Leo¡±she begged breathlessly, yanking his hair even harder.

    A deep grumble tumbled fron Leonardo¡¯s chest.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

    Her reaction got him more aroused.

    Leonardo was hell bent on making her plead. Her thighs were parted and positioned, stimted, aroused and aroused continuously until she had be a mess of aching flesh.

    He teased her continuously till she couldn¡¯t bear the sheer sensual overload.

    ¡°Please touch me¡±she voiced out.

    His tongue then connected to her sensitive bundles of flesh.

    Hungrily, he fed on her. His took her clit into his mouth, flicking his tongue against it.

    Crystal tried stiffling her moan but it was just too much.

    He ate her clean and damn did she love  it.  His tongue slipped inside her, sucking her folds and juices whilst he pushed in two fingers inside her also.

    Whilst his tongue devoured her, his fingers were pumping in and out of her.

    ¡°Oohhhhhh¡­¡±Crystal struggled to catch her breath.

    This strong sensation of pleasure made her mind utterly nk.

    His pace was dangerously fast, his fingers thrusting into her continuously until she screamed out in pure bliss, an orgasmic sensation rocking her.

    But Leonardo didn¡¯t stop after her first orgasm. He sucked on her cum, his fingers still ravaging within her.

    ¡°L-leonardo¡­ please¡± a breathless sigh was heard from her aching lips.

    Orgasm hit her again like aet. Her toes curled up and her fingers almost ripped his hair.

    Leonardo kept on going faster till she cried out, much more louder than before. Only then did he stop.

    He raised his head up and licked his fingers clean.

    ¡°You are the most exotic meal I¡¯ve tasted¡± he huskily said, a devilish glint in his eyes.

    Why did he have to look so sinful?

    Her eyes could clearly see the massive bulge in his pants, wanting to be let out.

    He parted her thighs more and settled between them.

    ¡°You want this?¡±he asked.

    Crystal nodded in reply. ¡°Go gentle please¡±

    ¡°Soft and gentle¡± he mumbled in agreement, undoing his trousers.

    Leonardo wasn¡¯t a man who made love. He fucked. He fucked hard and raw.

    But today he will go gentle for his doll.

    His erection stood out tall, with thick veins that ran along his length. It was hardened so fully in need.

    Need of her.

    He pressed his lips on hers once again whilst his one hand positioned himself to her dripping core.

    Crystal could taste herself in his mouth. It ignited a wave of desire within her.

    Slowly he began to move inside her.

    With one hand propping himself up, Leonardo went in more deeper until he was all the way inside her.

    His length spread through the walls of her wet core as a breathless moan escaped her lips.

    His both arms settled against her sides. With a low husky groan, he pulled out and thrusted in deeper, slightly harder this time.

    ¡°Fuck¡±his rugged breathing brushed against her neck. Crystal wed at his taunt muscles, her hands then trailing to his back as he thrusted into her further, gripping onto the sheets of the bed to keep himself from going rough.

    Leonardo was being so tender with her. The move of his hips were slow and controlled. He was slowly thrusting into her but with some mannerism of hardness.

    He filled her up entirely, hitting the spot she wanted which made her cry out everytime.

    ¡°Crystal¡­ I am close¡± He rasped. He was close to cuming and she as well.

    Thrusting continuously, he tipped her over the edge. Her head lulled back into the pillow, her pupils bing dted and her nails digging into his skin.

    He hissed in pain but he loved it. He rode her off delicately but pleasurably into orgasm.

    Crystal convulsed underneath him, breathing out his name continuously as she felt herself release.

    A couple more sweet thrusts and he felt himself stiffen inside her, her walls clenching around him.

    He pulled out in a sh. His seeds sttered across her stomach, his tip dripping off his hot release as he lets out a low growl.

    They both stared at each other breathlessly.

    Crystal couldn¡¯t believe what just happened. Leonardo made love to her and it felt so pleasurable.

    Leonardo rolled over her, hauling her towards himself.

    ¡°Fuck. You are so sweet¡±he groaned against her face.

    Crystal felt her face be flush. She felt weak and exhausted. Leonardo ced a tender kiss on her lips before pulling away, noticing how tired she was.

    Crystal felt her heavy eyes slowly close and her body rxed within Leonardo¡¯s hold.

    ¡°I love you Crystal¡± he whispered to her.

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