Shadows of Obsession is now on Kindle!

Hey!!! I can’t thank you enough for putting so much of your time into reading my story. I can’t express in words how grateful I am.

I decided to publish

Shadows of Obsession

on

Kindle

as an ebook.

If any of you use Amazon or Goodreads, please be so kind as to leave a review!

I made minimal changes and fixed all the mistakes I somehow didn’t catch in the manuscript before.

Of course, the story is staying on Wattpad, and I have zero intention of removing it. But for those who would like to have it as a book, with a new cover and fixed mistakes, it’s now available to purchase!

The link is in my bio.

Love u, xx.

Author’s note︱Warnings

Welcome! English is not my first language, so I apologize for any mistakes I may have made! I’m always doing my best to correct any grammatical mistakes.

This is part

1

of the Shadow Series.

You don’t have to read the (standalone) stories in order to understand them, but if you wanted to, here is the reading order:

1. Shadows of Obsession

2. Shadows of Submission

3. Shadows of Temptation

4. Shadows of Devotion

This is a dark romance with dark elements. If you don’t like stalker men, unhinged men, crazy men, toxic men, obsessive men…

etc

PLEASE, DON’T EVEN START READING!

I WON’T ALLOW HATE IN THE COMMENTS.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

Without further ado, enjoy

<3

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CHARACTER’S AESTHETIC

•

•

•

•

chapter 1︱panic

At least once in our lives, we question our taste in men or women. Many women prefer a kind-nice guy with stability who is smart and not mentally ill. And then there’s this small percentage of women who don’t want a nice guy. They need a monster-a psychopath. A mentally ill man who cannot be stopped.

I was sure until I met him that I belonged to the first group of women.

I was sure of many things before I met the psychopath.

Now he won’t let me be. He won’t let me breathe without his permission, without being in his presence. I’m caged in his embrace, and the worst-best thing is, I won’t ever be free.

• • •

The day we were all waiting for, and by ‘we’ I mean Freya, Jade, and I, has finally come. It was over for our finals, and everyone couldn’t wait to get drunk, including me. I’m not an alcoholic, but I do get drunk from time to time. It’s because of the academic stress, okay?

When Emery, my best friend of four years, told us she organized a party, we all jumped at her. She found the perfect cabin where at least fifty people could squeeze in. Although she invited many more people.

I’d been counting the days until I could finally get wasted. To not think about school or my family.

The day had come sooner than I’d thought.

I styled my long, dark chocolate hair into soft waves with my curler while Freya was throwing every piece of clothing out of her closet. Jade was dressed and ready to leave for the party, except that we had an hour before it started.

Emery told us to wear whatever we liked. There was no dress code. So, I decided to wear a black strapless top with a sleek leather mini skirt and high heels.

“Do you think she invited the whole school?” Freya asked us as she pressed some random dresses to her body and looked in the mirror.

“The whole school? You mean the entire town.” I laughed. “You know how crazy she gets with her parties. She’s unstoppable.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” Freya nodded and threw the dresses on the ground, picking up something else.

“She will get drunk the minute the party starts.” Jade chimed in.

I looked at her and chuckled. “Aren’t you used to it by now? Emery doesn’t change overnight.” I roamed my hands through the strands of my hair.

Emery has always been a little crazy, and not just with partying. We might sound like we complained, but it’s not like that at all. We are merely looking out for her.

Last year, there was an incident where she got so wasted we couldn’t find her. We searched the entire town, but we failed. Thankfully, Emery’s brother was quick enough to find her, and we could all take a deep breath.

Emery wasn’t allowed to party or make them happen because of it. So if she would fuck up again like the last time, we would all say goodbye to drinking and partying together.

“Is the black or the red dress better, girls?” Freya asked, and we both studied the dress. But the truth is, she would look fabulous in either of them.

“Definitely black,” Jade stated.

“Agree,” I said.

Freya listened to us and didn’t throw that gorgeous dress to the floor like the other hundred.

After that, we listened to some music to get in the partying mood and drank some wine we had hidden. Jade secured our pickup to the cabin. It was a guy named Kaiden. They both liked the same type of music and clothing style, making them a perfect match. However, Jade is a bit shy, so Kaiden is still friend-zoned. Poor guy. He can’t tear his eyes away from her.

He picked us up exactly on time, and the drive there was cool. He wasn’t speeding as I expected him to, probably because of Jade. He cared about her safety.

It took us twenty minutes to get there, and when we caught sight of numerous cars and people, our mouths were open. So far, this has been the biggest party we’ve been to outside of a club.

After Kaiden parked, we moved inside to greet our friend Emery. It didn’t take us long to find her. She was on the couch, making out with somebody. Her bleached-blond hair was pin-straight. Her makeup was smoky and dramatic. She wore a pink minidress with tiny straps and high pink heels. She looked perfect as always.

All of us strode toward her, and as we stopped a few feet away, I coughed.

“Didn’t the party start just fifteen minutes ago?” I asked, and she tore her mouth from the guy’s face.

“OMG! You’re all finally here.” She shrieked and jumped at us, hugging us tight. I could smell the alcohol emanating from her mouth.

“You’re going to choke us to death!” Freya yelled.

Emery finally released her grip and giggled. “Sorryyy, I’m just so pumped and ready to party until the morning!” She shouted.

Jade shook her head. “This won’t end well.”

And she was right.

Somehow, I was sitting on a guy’s lap, which I didn’t know. He wasn’t ugly, but he wasn’t really my type. His hands were all over my body, and I didn’t feel completely comfortable. But it’s been so long since someone laid their hands on me. I needed to feel wanted for a couple of minutes.

Freya and Jade were dancing in the middle of the room with a bunch of girls and boys, and Emery was nowhere to be found.

My vision was blurry, and my body moved from side to side. I wasn’t exactly okay. None of us were, but that was the whole point.

Drink until you’re drunk.

Everyone was having a good time. Laughing and dancing. Kissing and fucking.

I grabbed the drink the guy I was sitting on had and swallowed it quickly. It burned my brain off, and I had to stop breathing for a second.

I managed to get up and dart to the girls. Freya clutched my hands and brought them up. We were swinging our bodies and singing to the song that was playing.

After many shots, I, Freya, and Jade were lying outside on the grass. The lake was near, so we would rather stay lying down than end up drowning in the water.

Emery was still nowhere to be found, and even though I was wasted, I still worried for her. However, I couldn’t get up on my own and search for her.

“Do you think life is worth living?” Jade started. “We will be bones and ash soon anyway. Who cares about college when we should enjoy our life being rich somewhere in Dubai?”

Freya and I laughed hysterically. I mean, she was right.

“Maybe you should finally give Kaiden a chance instead of dreaming about impossibility,” Freya muttered.

“Don’t be such a bitch. You haven’t dated in a year.” Jade snapped back, taking a sip of vodka. Gross . I hated that shit.

While they were arguing, as always when they got drunk, I closed my eyes, my head floating in circles, and my ears filled with the chaos. After all, I hated partying, or rather, this particular part of it.

Suddenly, Emery came out of the cabin, fury across her face. Some seconds later, a guy appeared behind her. He was tall-like, really tall. His black hair was a little long and messy, and he was smoking a cigarette like he was in a hurry to finish it.

I couldn’t see him well as everything around me spun, but I had never seen him before.

I raised my hand and started to wave. “Where have you been??!!” I shouted, and Emery snapped her eyes at me. So did the guy.

Freya and Jade were still fighting, and I started to laugh. It all looked very comical to me.

Out of nowhere, Emery appeared in front of me. She crouched down and caressed my cheek.

“I can’t let them go back to dorms like this.” She whispered, and my eyes shut. My eyelids were too heavy.

“No. You don’t get it. You have to do it. For me, please.” She said.

That’s where I blacked out and then woke up in the backseat of a car. I turned my head slowly to the side and saw Freya and Jade sleeping next to me. Their heads on each other’s shoulders. So cute .

My gaze moved back to the passenger seat. The guy who was speaking with Emery was driving the car. My eyes shut again. I fell asleep, and when I awoke, Freya and Jade were no longer sleeping next to me.

My vision was clear, and my head no longer spun crazily. I felt much better, but I was still wasted.

I focused on the passenger seat, and it was empty. The car sat still. Engine off. Silent. My heart pulse quickened as panic set in. I tried to open the door, but it was locked.

Was I kidnapped? Why is no one in the car beside me? Where are Freya and Jade?

I searched for my purse and found it beside me. I quickly opened it and snatched my phone. It only had one percent left.

The door suddenly opened, and the mysterious guy got in. He shut the door and let out a deep sigh. He was dressed all in black. Black hoodie and black sweatpants. Hood on his head.

I swallowed hard and looked out of the window to maybe recognize where I was. But it was still dark, almost morning. I couldn’t see a thing. Even the windows were tinted.

I glanced into the rearview mirror to see the face of a man who had kidnapped me, but it seemed I was already being watched.

The guy’s gray eyes pierced through mine. Those eyes looked like they could kill me. They held darkness in them.

My heart went into a frenzy; I began panting.

Before I could scream or shout, I suddenly couldn’t breathe, and this time I blacked out for longer than a couple of seconds. It’s because I fainted.

⸻⸻

I’m back with another unhinged

characters, and story!

Don’t forget to vote and comment!

Check out the Spotify playlist for this story!

(Now available on Kindle. Link in my bio)

chapter 2︱payment

Since some of you can’t read, please stop reading this if you never read dark romance in your life. You won’t like this story, and you are ruining the comments with your stupid statements. Go read something about unicorns, and rainbows, thank you <3.

• • •

I yawned and turned on my stomach. The sheets were soft and smelled beautiful. I buried my nose into the pillow, inhaling the scent.

My palms roamed the surface of the bed, enjoying the comfort. Was my dorm bed always so comfy?

It seemed it was morning because soon my eyelids were struck by the direct sunlight, and I squinted my eyes. I groaned and flipped my head to the other side. With a long sigh, I closed my eyes and let myself fall back to sleep.

But then I heard the water running and remembered my room doesn’t have a shower because we share the dorm shower.

My eyes instantly opened, and I sprang up, sitting on the bed. My head suddenly became dizzy. I drank like a dog yesterday. How could I forget?

I looked around to not recognize the room, and panic settled in. Marble floors. A skyline view. Definitely not my dorm. I recalled the dark gray eyes peering at me. The locked door and the unknown location.

I jumped off the bed, steadying my feet on the floor. I was still clothed; only the heels were off my feet. That was a good sign.

I analyzed the room and found the heels in the corner of it, as well as my purse.

This room looked expensive, as if it belonged to some rich mafia heir.

If only .

My eyes darted to the other door, from where I heard the sound of water running. Silently, I tiptoed to it, my heart hammering in my chest.

I calmed my breath and took another step closer. The door was slightly ajar, so I could see a bit inside.

No one could prepare me for the scene I’d seen in there. And I mean truly, no one.

My kidnapper was in the shower, stroking his dick.

My eyes widened at the sight of that. I couldn’t believe my eyes; even my jaw dropped to the floor. Is this just a dream? I mean, a terrible nightmare? It can’t be real.

But the longer I stood there and heard his loud moans escape his throat as he stroked his length harder, the less I could believe it wasn’t real.

But God damn. His body was like a masterpiece. Especially his shoulders. And his dick was massive as well. Not that I was too focused on it, of course.

I drew closer, and as I set my foot on the threshold, it creaked.

Well, fuck.

I stumbled backward and immediately looked around the room to find a place to hide. However, nothing seemed like a great hiding place, so I went down on my knees and crawled under the bed.

I covered my mouth not to let my breath be heard. I was panting.

The door to the bathroom opened almost immediately after that, and my heart skipped a beat. I wanted to shut my eyes and hope for the best, but I was too curious and too horrified. I needed to see where my kidnapper would go.

He strode into the room with his thundering steps and stopped just in front of my purse and heels. I could tell he was observing them, even though I could only see his bare feet.

A couple of seconds passed, and he continued with his steps to the side of the bed I slept on. My nerves only intensified. Is he thinking of murdering me now, when I’m hiding? He must imagine the way he will kill me once he finds me.

Suddenly, he sighed. He crouched down and fell to his knees. The next thing I knew, he was staring at me. I bonked my head against the bed slats, feeling the pulsing pain.

His gaze was still on me as if I hadn’t even seen him. He looked like he didn’t care one bit. I touched the top of my head, hoping it would not bruise. The pain was insufferable.

My kidnapper looked away and got back onto his feet.

“Either you will come out on your own or-”

You don’t have to tell me twice.

With the speed of light, I crawled my way out of the bed, being careful not to hit the bed frame and cause myself another injury. I’ve had enough pain for today.

I tilted my head once I was fully out and met with the most gorgeous eyes I’ve ever seen in my life. Not only were his gray eyes heavenly, but his body! He was full of muscles and tattoos that weren’t just random patches. They looked like they had a deeper meaning.

His shoulders were broad and firm. He must’ve worked out every single day to achieve such a figure.

My eyes couldn’t help but stare at him. I know I shouldn’t have been drooling over him because that only meant my escape would be more difficult, but he was the most handsome man I’ve met.

Thankfully, he had a towel wrapped around his hips. It would be more difficult to tear my gaze away if I saw his length again. Just the reminder of it sent shivers all over my body.

As he was looking into my eyes without blinking, he ran his fingers through his black hair. I looked away at the floor, remembering how I ended up here.

I hugged myself as I felt colder. My stomach growled, and I’m sure my mascara was under my eyes. I just wanted to get back to my dorm.

“I’ll pay you,” I murmured.

He didn’t reply to my offer for some seconds. He stood there, stoic, watching me. I didn’t bring myself to look at him again.

“How will you pay for it?” He suddenly asked, and I took that as a good sign. Maybe there was a space for a negotiation.

“W-With money.” I stuttered.

He chuckled and drew closer to me. It felt as if I was compelled because I looked up, and his abs were wet, filled with drops of water.

His chest was going rapidly up and down. That would mean he was mad. Was what I said wrong?

“Money?” He questioned. “Pay me with your body.”

Terror overtook my face. Was I hearing that right? Pay with my body?

All the fear in my body vanished, and I regained the strength to stand up. I crossed my arms under my chest and tilted my chin upward.

“Do I look like a slut to you? Because, even if I were one, I’d not be that cheap.” I seethed, glaring into his eyes.

A sly grin appeared on his face, and I badly wanted to smash my fist across it. To let the anger flee out of my body.

His grin formed into a poker face, and that’s when I knew I struck his nerves. Who does he think he is, messing with me?

“Now, I’ll leave this room, and you won’t follow me, okay?” I said, my gaze not leaving his figure in case he’d attack me.

I got on top of the bed and walked across it to not getting closer to him. I grabbed my purse and heels and exited the room. I quickly opened my purse and looked for my phone, which evidently wasn’t there.

I let out a long sigh and stopped in my steps. Could I leave it in his room?

I couldn’t go back and get it as if nothing had happened. So, I headed to the elevator that was directly in the living room and pushed the button. I ignored everything around me and didn’t try to pay attention to it.

We were on the seventeenth floor, and the elevator was only on the fourth floor. I tapped my foot, squeezing my eyes. This couldn’t be happening.

Then my phone started ringing. I snapped my head toward the door I’d just come through-it kept ringing. I swallowed hard when the door opened with my kidnapper standing in the doorway with my phone in his hand.

“Emery…” He said softly, and I shivered.

“Please, give me back my phone before I leave,” I said, and looked at the elevator’s floor number. Twelfth floor.

Emery must be so worried about me. And Freya and Jade as well. I still have no clue what happened to them.

My kidnapper didn’t look at me until he hit the pickup button and put the phone on speaker.

“Hey! Are you already up yet? I hope you’re not too sick from yesterday.” Emery asked, and I wanted to cry.

“She’s doing alright. Don’t worry.” The kidnapper replied instead of me, and I frowned.

“Ricky? Why do you have Aury’s phone? Is she not awake yet?” Emery asked.

What’s going on, for God’s sake?

He smirked and finally looked at me. “Yeah, she’s still sleeping. I think I should drive her back to the dorms.” He said.

“Oh my god, thank you! I’ll pay you for dinner, big bro.” She laughed and hung up.

No fucking way. Emery’s brother is my kidnapper?

What happened yesterday? And why did I sleep in my best friend’s brother’s apartment?

⸻⸻

chapter 3︱mark

As soon as I sat down in the passenger seat of my kidnapper’s car, a knot formed in my stomach.

We didn’t say a word on our way down in the elevator. I went to the corner and folded my arms. He was close to the door, hands in his gray sweatpants pocket, wearing an oversized black hoodie and some black sneakers.

His car was parked in the underground parking lot. There were so many luxurious cars; they must have cost a fortune.

He lifted his arm toward the black BMW and pressed the button on the key fob, unlocking the doors with a soft click.

I gawked at it.

I knew Emery’s parents were rich. Her father was a lawyer, and her mother owned a company.

I’ve never met her brother before. And you may ask how that’s possible when she’s your best friend. Well, that’s a very good question.

Emery’s brother was living abroad. I don’t even know where or what he was doing there. Emery never talked about him before. Only that he was always very protective of her. He was a few years older than us, probably around twenty-four.

He turned on the engine and backed out of the parking spot slowly. Then he did that thing where you steer the wheel with one hand, and I couldn’t help but notice the veins popping up on his arm.

I couldn’t deny how hot he was. I shook away the forbidden thoughts about my best friend’s brother and looked straight ahead on the road.

I was clothed very lightly, as I thought I’d get home a lot sooner. My skin was getting chilly, and goosebumps prickled up on my arms and legs. I totally looked like a slut even though I wasn’t.

A few seconds passed, and suddenly I felt warmth radiating from the heaters. I didn’t even register when he turned it on. He must’ve seen I was cold.

That still didn’t erase what he said to me. It was carved into my head.

I still needed answers to what happened and why I wasn’t taken to the dorms. Not that it was the smartest idea, since I’d get scolded for drinking so heavily, and I would probably stay in my room for god knows how long as a punishment from the dorm director.

I glanced at my kidnapper, slowly moving my gaze to his arm that was holding the wheel tightly. Too tightly, in my opinion. Perhaps he was hot.

As if he felt my stare, he looked at me, and I snapped my eyes to the road. Please, someone, get me out of here.

But there was no one who could rescue me. Even my best friend was aware of this arrangement.

I heard a quiet laugh, and I burst out, “What?” Still staring at the road with billions of cars passing by. The traffic was heavy.

We stopped at the red light, and the anxiety kept on building. What if he’s not taking me to the dorms but somewhere with no people around? To lock me in a basement and only feed me once a day?

Okay, that was exaggerated. I need to watch less true crime.

I intently stared at the red light, counting the seconds in my head. What I was about to do was dangerous and crazy. But would it be better to leave with this maniac?

I took a sharp breath and yanked the door open. I jumped out of the seat and started running. The light was thankfully still red, and he couldn’t move because I hadn’t shut the door.

The problem was, I had no idea where I was.

I didn’t stop running, though. I ran as fast as I could, but the heels were slowing me down. I kept following the sidewalk, scared to look behind me.

People were looking at me as if I were crazy, but they had no idea I was running for my life.

When my unathletic body caught up to me and my leg muscles burned, I had to take a break. I crouched down on the sidewalk, out of breath.

I dug through my purse for my phone. It was dead.

“Nooooooooo.” I cried out loud, wishing yesterday hadn’t happened.

I tried to bring it to life, but there was no way to turn it on when the battery was at zero.

I stared at my phone’s screen, and soon enough, another head appeared next to me. I screamed and flinched. I fell down on my ass, and my wrist burned as my kidnapper’s hand wrapped around it.

His hand was big, his fingers so long and manly. No wonder it hurt like hell.

Before I had time to react or oppose, I was lifted up by his strong arms and thrown over his broad shoulder.

“What are you doing?! Put me the fuck down!” I yelled and banged my fists on his back.

He didn’t utter a word and carried on with me to his car. He opened the passenger door and placed me in the seat. Blood boiled in my veins.

“Try to escape one more time,” he whispered. “Try it.” He stabbed me with his big eyes.

I swallowed hard and ducked my head down. If I wanted to come alive out of this, I had to obey.

The whole ride was quiet with no music on. Every time I glanced at him, fury was painted across his face. His hands clutched at the wheel.

I looked at my wrist and saw a red mark left by his fingers. I should’ve called the police. This man was a psychopath.

Once I saw the familiar street to my dorms, I let out a long sigh. After all, he had no other intentions with me. Now we can act like we’ve never met. Not even once did I see him in Emery’s house, so why would I now pretend we know each other?

He parked the car in front of the building, even though you’re not supposed to stop there. Emery was already waiting for me in front of the front door.

I smiled at her and waved my hand, and vice versa. But when I tried to open the door, they were locked.

I turned to him, and his eyes darkened. He was watching me from beneath his lashes, which were full and long, unlike mine. I had to get lash extensions.

My heart banged against my rib cage. I could only hear its beat in my ears.

“This,” he began, rubbing my wrist. “Is not the last mark I’ll leave on you.”

My eyes widened. It felt like I was struck by lightning. But before I could answer, he unlocked the door, and Emery’s voice alarmed me.

Sick fuck, I thought and quickly opened the door. There was no way in hell we would meet again. I’d give him no opportunity to see even a glimpse of me.

Emery immediately put her hands around my shoulders and hugged me tightly. She didn’t acknowledge her brother. While she was crushing my bones, he drove off.

After a couple of seconds, I pulled away, my eyebrows furrowed.

“Why was I sleeping in your brother’s apartment?” I asked.

She looked confused, as if I had said something strange. “Oh, I’m sorry, Aury. I didn’t have time to explain it yesterday. But let’s go upstairs, and I’ll tell you everything.”

The truth was that someone called the cops on us. Some of us were not of legal drinking age, so you can imagine the chaos that began. She called her brother Ricky because she was hopeless. Some of the people didn’t want to leave and started to get violent.

After he came and cleaned up the mess Emery made, he took me, Jade, and Freya to one of his friends’ houses. Except, when we got to me, there suddenly wasn’t any more room for sleeping.

So that’s how I ended up in his apartment.

It made zero sense, though; however, Emery seemed like nothing was wrong. You want to tell me there was no spare place for me? I’m not that tall to not fit, and I could fold like a cat.

“Was it so bad there? Did my brother act rude?” She asked with worry in her tone.

I put on a fake smile, hoping she would not see me faking it. “Of course not. I slept well; it was a bit weird to wake up somewhere I didn’t recognize.” I admitted.

She exhaled with relief. “I thought that son of a bitch was an asshole to you. We might be siblings, but we’re very different.” She said.

Oh, believe me. I know.

I laughed and took a sip of the water Emery gave me. We talked for a couple of minutes about yesterday, and then it hit me-I forgot to charge my phone.

“Oh, my phone is totally dead,” I said, and I plugged it into a charger. As soon as it hit one percent, a new message popped up on my screen. I drew closer to read it.

Unknown: Have you enjoyed watching me play with my dick?

Oh god.

⸻⸻

chapter 4︱stalker

Who knew another nap would solve my problems? Well, temporarily.

After I took a shower, ate something light, and dressed in comfortable clothes, I felt much better. When I woke up, Freya and Jade were already sitting on my bed, scrolling through social media. I sighed and rolled my eyes.

“Don’t you have your own rooms?” I said, and they both looked at me in unison.

Freya then jumped onto me, and I let out a breath.

“We missed you. Don’t be a bitch,” she said, grinning at me.

“I’m not being a bitch. I just woke up.” I pushed her off myself and got out of bed to the small kitchen area we had. I chugged a glass of cold water and immediately felt more awake.

The front door opened, and Emery came back from what looked like shopping since she was holding two bags in each hand.

“After drinking snacks!” She exclaimed, and I laughed.

We moved to my bed, and Emery spread everything on top of the sheets. I was hungry, but I wasn’t sure that eating something out of this would be exactly the best choice.

“So, how did you sleep, Aury?” Freya asked, eyeing me.

I frowned and almost choked on the one chip I was chewing.

“I slept alright. I prefer my bed.” I said and faintly smiled. That was a huge lie. I hated my bed here, and Ricky’s bed was the most heavenly place I’d ever lain on.

I felt Emery’s gaze on me, but I chose to ignore it. She can’t know what happened between us. It’s her brother, for God’s sake. She surely doesn’t know he’s a psychopath; otherwise, she wouldn’t let me sleep at his apartment.

“Your brother was so nice to us, Emery. Why didn’t you say how extremely hot he is?” Freya teased, and the three of them laughed, except for me. I only chuckled.

“I should advise you not to develop any feelings for him. He may look ‘hot’ in your eyes, but he’s not that nice inside,” Emery said. “He’s a total asshole, but I love him. He always comes when I call him.”

At least he’s acting nice to his sister.

Emery tucked a strand of blond hair behind her ear, and I just now realized that her brother has black hair. I wondered if that was her original color. Even their eyes didn’t match since Emery had green eyes, but it’s not like it was my business.

“By the way, I couldn’t help but notice Kaiden’s eyes on you the entire time you were dancing, Jade. Don’t you think it’s time to let the boy have his chance with you?” Emery asked.

Jade flushed, her straight black hair bringing even more color to her cheeks. She was so adorable!

“Are you afraid?” I wondered, and she looked at me. I always understood her worry over Kaiden. What if he had bad intentions with her? But he didn’t look like that kind of guy. He was always so caring and nice to her. Even to us.

“There’s nothing to be afraid of. Well, maybe until he pulls out his dick-” Freya started, and I threw a pillow at her.

“What was that for?!” She yelled, her forehead creased.

I shrugged and looked away.

“I didn’t mean it in a bad way, of course.” She said it in an obvious tone. “After you started dating, you know. He looks very shy on the outside, but God knows what kind of monster he is in bed-” Now Emery threw a pillow at her.

“What is it now?!” Freya shrieked, and we all laughed.

My laugh soon turned into silence when my phone buzzed with another message. I unplugged it from the charger and acted as if nothing had happened. If I didn’t, they would all try to read my message.

It was another text from my kidnapper. A picture. I clicked on it, anticipation building inside me as I waited for it to load.

The picture was of my black spiral hair tie on his wrist.

He went through my purse?! Of course, he did. He snooped around and stole my favorite hair tie!

“What are you staring at?” Emery asked, and I immediately lifted my gaze at her. I turned off my phone screen and tossed the phone into my lap.

“My mom texted me.” I lied, and she bought it. Or at least it looked like it.

Should I instead say, Hey, your brother is a total freak who got my number and is now texting me?

“Thank God the police didn’t catch us.” Freya changed the subject and pulled her brown curly hair into a ponytail.

“Were you scolded by your brother?” Jade wondered, and I was interested in the answer as well.

Emery sighed and leaned back, supporting her body with her hands. “A bit. But he’s always soft with me. He never once yelled at me. He’s just a jerk when he opens his mouth.” She replied.

After that, we changed the topic and talked about something else rather than last night. I even forgot about it for a short minute. But then I was reminded of it when I looked at the clothes I wore lying on the ground.

I shook my head, trying to clear my clouded mind. Pull yourself together. You won’t see him anytime soon. I have to focus on my studies and on my part-time job.

• • •

When it was my time for the shift, I changed into gray leggings and a white crop top with an oversized zipper hoodie that was merch from my favorite band.

I worked at the college coffee shop. Was it the worst job ever because I saw the people I hate the most in the entire world all the time? Yes.

But I wanted to earn my own money. I hate asking my mom for them every single week. I mostly work during the weekend because that’s when I have the most free time, but I do work sometimes during the week if I don’t have much to study.

I owned an older car and ride it to the coffee shop. The lazy part of me won even today.

I parked the car in the parking lot and locked it, checking twice to be sure. I’m a bit paranoid, but I always tell myself, Who would steal such an old thing? Don’t get me wrong, I love my car. But it’s ten years old. Still, I wouldn’t trade it for another.

As soon as I stepped inside, Josh’s wide smile welcomed me, and I felt at ease. Josh is one year older than me. He has worked here as long as I have, and he’s my favorite co-worker. With him, you’re constantly laughing. He makes your day much better.

“Exactly on time, Miss Mitchell.” He teased me as I was putting my things down, grabbing my work uniform. It was a plain T-shirt with the logo of the café.

“When I wasn’t on time, Josh.” I rolled my eyes and smirked.

We started working, and time flew by. You don’t even know what time it is until someone reminds you it’s time to close. When you’re busy, you have no perception of time.

“You still owe me dinner. I didn’t forget.” Josh said while I was cleaning the tables.

“And I didn’t either. I was just so busy with school and partying.” I confessed, and he laughed.

He strode toward me, his tall frame shadowing me. He wasn’t as tall as Ricky or as muscular.

What the hell? Why did I immediately think of him?

“You should invite me next time.” He murmured, acting offended.

I nudged his shoulder. “I will. I swear. Now help me clean this.” I said, and he smiled.

After twenty minutes of deep cleaning, we finally closed down the coffee shop, and Josh and I went to grab a burger. I was starved to death because I didn’t have any appetite this morning.

We took my car since Josh didn’t have one at the moment.

He was saving up for it, though. Find a nice older car that isn’t a total wreck.

We sat in my car after we got our cheeseburgers with fries, and suddenly I realized I truly can’t live without fast food.

I bit a huge chunk of it, sauce dripping down my mouth. Josh stared at me, amused.

“Never saw a girl eating her burger with so much passion? Well, now you do.” I said, and he laughed.

“I actually like that you’re not one of those girls who eat carefully.” He smirked. And now I’ve felt like I was “different.” Like I was one of those girls who only talked to guys.

I awkwardly laughed and took another bite, looking out of the window. As my eyes roamed through the parking lot, I swore I saw a figure in dark clothes near the trees, staring directly at us.

Am I okay? Probably not. Perhaps the alcohol was still in my system.

I turned back to Josh, and he was already done with his food.

“I have to go home now. I have so much to study for Monday.” He said and let out a deep exhale.

“Tell me about it. I can’t even get an hour of sleep.”

Josh then left my car and said goodbye. He was living very near the school. He wasn’t in the dorms.

I turned the car on and started blasting my favorite songs as I drove out of the parking lot. Nothing can compare to the sun setting while listening to your favorite music and driving.

I checked my rearview mirror and widened my eyes. Someone was following me. They were glued to my trunk, and God forbid they would bump into me. I didn’t have money for the repair.

I sped up past the speed limit, fear spreading within me. I was only five minutes away from the dorms.

I turned the steering wheel sharply to the right and parked my car at the very back. I glanced into the rearview mirror, and there was no trace of the black car that was following me.

I quickly grabbed my stuff from the passenger seat and exited the car. I shut the door and locked it.

As soon as I lifted my gaze to the window reflection, someone stood behind me, towering over me. I shuddered, my heart banging inside my chest.

The keys in my hand dropped to the ground as my hand flexed from the shock.

The man behind me wore a hoodie and a balaclava. I couldn’t recognize him since the window was tinted and it was already dark.

I moved slightly to the side, and his hands flew around each side of my body, palms flat against the car.

“You won’t even greet me?” His husky voice whispered next to my ear.

It was the voice of my best friend’s brother. Ricky.

When I didn’t reply, he grabbed my arms and spun me around to face him. Meeting his gray eyes didn’t do good to my heart. Was I slowly dying?

I looked away, feeling his intense stare. I couldn’t look at him. I didn’t want to look at him.

He sighed and then chuckled briefly. “Did someone cut your tongue, or do you need help speaking? he asked.

My fingers curled into fists, my heart beating so wildly. What did he want from me? Why was he so interested in me all of a sudden?

“I see,” he murmured. “You’re scared of me.”

I badly wanted to shout that I wasn’t scared and that I could beat him up, but I’d be lying to myself.

He lowered himself to my height since he was probably 6’4“. He found my gaze, his head cocked to the side. His eyes pierced through mine, and it felt as if someone shot an arrow through my heart.

My eyebrows raised as his gaze lowered to my nose and then to my lips, and then lifted back to my eyes.

“I wonder,” he began. “How would these lips look after I’d bitten them, sucked on them, and kissed them?”

What. The. Hell .

“You’re a fucking psychopath,” I hissed.

He laughed. “I haven’t even started yet.”

⸻⸻

chapter 5︱scream

Jade and I went shopping. She needed a new box of black hair dye and a few clothes. When we hang out, it always feels natural to me. We don’t have to fill the silence between us.

Originally, all four of us were supposed to go, but since Emery needed to study and Freya had to finish her project, our friend group was left with two.

I didn’t complain.

Emery would immediately know something was wrong with me, and Freya would pick a fight about it.

I love them to death, but sometimes I need to breathe and keep it to myself.

Jade and I split up on our way to the shops to speed up the shopping process. I was shopping for approximately twenty minutes, and soon enough, Jade caught up to me with the hair dye and a bag of clothes.

We decided that it was too soon to go back, so we sat down at a random coffee shop and ordered a cappuccino.

“I’ve spent too much money again,” I whined.

Jade laughed as she sipped her cappuccino. “You have a severe problem. You should fix it before you get totally broke.”

I rolled my eyes and smiled. I should have truly stopped spending my money as if I were a millionaire.

Suddenly, my phone screen lit up with a message notification. I swallowed hard and drew closer as my phone was on top of the table.

Unknown: Who would’ve thought you liked metal? I might borrow one of your vinyls.

I gasped loudly and clutched the phone in my hand. No! Not my expensive vinyls.

“What happened?!” Jade wondered.

I stared at the screen, horrified, because how did he get into my room?

“Uhm, my childhood cat died,” I mumbled, my fingers shaking above the keyboard.

“I thought you didn’t have any pets,” Jade said, and she was right, but how could I otherwise explain my dramatic reaction?

Me : Put it back immediately!

It was the first time I replied to his messages, and I didn’t know if that was the right decision or not.

I raised my eyes to Jade, who was staring at me intently. She wanted answers and no lies. Well, fuck me now.

“It doesn’t matter. She was really old.” I said and nonchalantly waved my hand.

My phone buzzed again.

Unknown : Or what?

I exhaled, fury spreading within me. I wasn’t a murderer, but I’d become one if this man hadn’t left me alone.

Me: Meet me at 7 p.m. in the school parking lot. I have something for you.

I prepared some cash. I had had enough of his weird messages.

I turned my phone on silent and gave all my attention to Jade, who was too busy staring at Kaiden’s social media profile.

“Made any progress?” I asked.

She shook her head; her eyebrows snapped together.

“Every time I look at him, I get butterflies in my stomach. It’s harder to talk to him now because of how I feel for him. And I know he feels the same way, but I’m just scared.” She explained and looked at me.

“I’m sure he feels scared as well, Jade-” My eyes widened when I caught sight of Kaiden walking with some girl with icy blonde hair.

Jade followed my gaze, and as soon as she saw him, she turned back.

“Oh, that’s awkward now.” She said, her voice shaky.

I grabbed her hands across the table. “No! It’s not. Maybe it’s a misunderstanding. You should ask him about it right now!” I urged her and stood up, dragging her with me.

I hurried after him, contemplating whether I should scream his name or not. How dare he walk around with another girl?

Kaiden stopped before a clothing shop, and the girl went inside alone. I pushed Jade away to talk to him by herself. I didn’t think she’d talk to him, but somehow she did. So I slowly strode off, hearing the sentence, She’s my sister , and cringed. After all, she was wrong.

I left them alone and decided to prepare for tonight. Meeting that psycho wouldn’t be easy.

• • •

I got inside my dorm; the room was dark and silent. It seemed like Emery had left somewhere. I shrugged and drank a glass of orange juice. I moved to my room, taking my hoodie and shirt off. I needed to change into lighter clothing.

Then my vinyl record started to play.

I whirled, staring at it. No one was there, but the music didn’t stop. It was the vinyl of my favorite band. I’ve never thought that could creep me out.

Carefully, I headed to it and turned it off. The record was spotless without any scratches. I let out an exhale. It cost a lot of money.

As I was going to grab a sweater from my closet, fingers attached to my hips, and then a second later, another pair of fingers covered my mouth as I started to scream.

“Don’t stop screaming; it’s turning me on.” He whispered into my ear.

Fuck.

I tried to elbow him, but his reaction was faster. He clutched my body, shifting me to my bed and throwing me on top of it. I took a sharp breath, breathing heavily. I was half naked, alone with my kidnapper, who was my best friend’s brother.

This time, he didn’t have a balaclava on. Only his black hoodie and sweatpants.

He eyed my body. Drinking in my every curve, every inch of me. Staring at me as if I were the most beautiful being he’d ever seen.

“I-I got money for you!” I shouted. “Just take my wallet; it’s all there, and we will be settled.”

He looked at me, confused, as if I were the crazy one among us. Then he shook his head and came closer, his knee bumping into mine.

His gaze rose to my chest, which was revealed. I wore a simple black lace bra. It was nothing special. I like simple clothes.

“Pay me with your body.” He said, his voice low.

“What?” I shrieked. Why is he saying this again? I thought we were over it by now. “I have enough money for you, Ricky. Take them and leave me be.”

He sighed and crawled on top of me. Goosebumps prickled across my skin, and my heartbeat quickened. He grabbed the strap of my bra, pushed it harshly down, and then pulled the right cup off my breast.

“Body. Not money, darling,” he smirked and brushed his lips against my nipple, then raised his gaze to mine.

I think my heart stopped beating for a solid second.

My nipples hardened, and he unfortunately noticed it. He grinned and raised a brow at me.

“I like that look on your face.” He whispered. “The resentment, but also desire.”

He cupped my breast, and I took a sharp breath, my chest going rapidly up and down.

He stuck out his tongue and licked his lip, his eyes never leaving mine. His eyes weren’t dead. They were full of life, and that horrified me.

He flicked his tongue across my hardened nipple, and I let out a soft moan, my back arching. His palm covered my mouth as he added biting. I flinched in pain and arousal. I couldn’t quite define what I was feeling. I wanted to run away from him, but I was like a statue, made for this moment.

He sucked, bit, and licked my nipple until I couldn’t feel the pinching. It became pleasurable to the point I felt so turned on.

This is insane. What am I doing?

Ricky finally let go of my nipple and studied it. He looked proud of his work, like I was just some doll to play with.

I said I wasn’t a whore, but at that moment, when my hair was all messy, my breast was out of my bra, and my breathing was ragged, I truly looked like one.

The front door suddenly shut, and I realized Emery had come home.

I immediately panicked, trying to shove my breast back into the bra cup and sit up. Ricky’s broad, masculine body brought me to a halt.

I was still panting, barely alive.

“Emery is back. Leave!” I whisper-shouted.

He rolled his eyes and got off me, unhurriedly walking to the window. He looked like he didn’t care one bit that his sister could’ve found us.

“Oh, and next time, don’t forget to close your window,” he said. “It’s not like it will stop me from coming in, though.” He added and jumped over the windowsill.

⸻⸻

Shadows of Obsession is now on Kindle! Link in my bio.

chapter 6︱delicious

I stared at the exam ahead of me. I couldn’t concentrate at all. My mind was filled with the image of Ricky licking my nipple.

They even hardened at the thought of him. I hated how my body responded to his presence. He was like an infection, spreading through me.

I cleared my throat and gripped the pen tightly between my fingers. I read the first question and immediately started writing down the answer.

I had to get him out of my head before the infection became incurable.

• • •

I exited the lecture hall and walked to my next class. I looked around to find my friends, and they were already waving at me from the lower row. I hurried to them and took a seat between Emery and Freya.

“How was the exam?” Freya asked, opening her laptop.

I sighed. “It wasn’t too bad; it’s just my head was somewhere else,” I said.

“You’ve been like that for a couple of days now.” Emery began. “Is everything okay?”

Oh no.

I knew she’d soon find out everything. How will I explain what happened with her brother? Will she hate me forever?

I blinked repeatedly. “Of course. I’m just tired.”

I pulled my laptop from the case and placed it on top of the desk, Emery’s eyes kept studying me. She wasn’t convinced at all. She would bug me about it until I’d give in and spill my whole heart out.

Thankfully, the professor entered the room and began teaching.

Again, my head was clouded by yesterday’s situation. Since the party at the cabin, everything has turned upside down. I had a pretty boring life, wishing from time to time to have something exciting happen to me. But I’ve never wanted this, whatever it is.

When the class was over, Emery quickly packed her stuff and sprinted away. Her mother was waiting for her as they went shopping once a week. It was their tradition.

Freya touched my forearm, and I looked at her.

“Aury.” She said in a high-pitched voice, fluttering her eyelashes.

“Agh, I know that look too well. Where do you want to go now?” I asked, and she giggled.

“Well, there’s this guy I want to go out with, but I’m scared to go alone. So, I may have arranged a double date today.” She smiled.

I sprang from my seat. “What?!” I shouted, and everyone who was still packing their stuff snapped their gaze at me.

“Don’t overreact, weirdo! It will only last an hour or two, and I’ll buy you a pizza for it.” Freya said and clasped her hands as if she were praying.

I narrowed my gaze at her and then started walking down the stairs. Her annoying, high-pitched fake voice was ringing in my ears until we reached the dorms.

“Fine!” I exclaimed. “I’ll go, but I won’t stay longer than an hour, and I want a huge pizza as compensation.”

Freya jumped with happiness and went down on her knees. “Thank you, Goddess. You won’t regret going.”

I laughed and shook my head, going to change in my room.

• • •

I didn’t dress up too much. I didn’t want to look like someone who wanted to experience this double date. Hell, I didn’t even know what the man looked like. Freya just shoved me into the trap, hoping I’d agree to go with her.

We walked to the club that Freya’s mysterious guy suggested. We had never gone there before, and that was the first red flag.

I tried to talk it out with her, but she went deaf. Freya is a stubborn girl. No one can change her mind except herself.

As soon as we neared the club, two guys were waiting for us in front of the entrance with their hands in their pockets.

The first one was the same height as Freya, and the man next to him was a bit taller than him. Both of them were blond with a huge smirk on their faces.

Freya walked in front of me and greeted the mysterious men. I caught up to her a few seconds later.

“This is my friend, Aury. And Aury, this is Dylan’s friend, Nico.” She introduced us.

“Hey,” I said to both of them, and they said hey back.

“You look sexy.” I heard Dylan whisper to Freya. She giggled and gently punched him in the shoulder.

I was next to Nico, and I’m sure he heard it as well because when I glanced at him, he had a grin on his face.

We entered the club and chose where to sit. It wasn’t as busy as during the weekend, but still, a lot of people were there.

We were in the VIP section, sitting on a very comfortable couch, if I might add. I leaned back and enjoyed the feeling.

If only I could steal this couch to my dorm.

Dylan ordered our drinks, and shortly after, they came. They looked so good and tasted even better. I was in awe.

Was this night going to turn out better than I’d hoped for?

I had no plan to actually get to know Nico. He didn’t look bad, but he wasn’t my type. I wanted free drinks and food. That’s all I cared about.

As I drank my drink and Freya was talking to Dylan, glued to his side, Nico’s eyes were fixed on me. Did he expect me to lean on him as if I knew him? I’m not that desperate for male attention to do so, and it’s only acceptable if I initiated it first.

I looked at him, and his eyes were on my lips. I guess he was the one who was desperate.

“Are you okay?” I asked nonchalantly.

He finally moved his gaze to my eyes. “Yeah, everything is perfect.” He said with a smirk.

I awkwardly laughed and looked the other way. And as if this night couldn’t get worse, I almost choked on the liquid when my kidnapper walked past our table.

For some reason, I didn’t try to hide. I was confident enough to believe he wouldn’t look my way.

The problem was that he did.

He wasn’t alone. Another guy was right beside him. Maybe, it was his friend.

Ricky’s eyes immediately locked on mine when he turned his neck. I froze, unable to move. He stared into my soul and sucked life out of me.

“Hey, Ricky! Come here.” Nico shouted through the music.

My heart skipped a beat. How is it possible they know each other? And why is he calling him here?

I uncomfortably shifted, my heart pulsing in my ears. Pizza won’t be a big enough apology for this horror night.

Ricky strode toward us with his friend, and he stopped right beside Nico. His eyes, though, never moved from me.

I stared at the floor tiles instead. I know I’m a coward.

“Man, what are you doing here? How’s life?” Nico asked.

“I’m having fun, and I’m doing great,” Ricky answered.

I pulled out my phone and texted Freya, while they chatted.

Me: I think I’ll leave now. I’m getting tired.

Her phone vibrated, and she quickly looked at the screen. Right after she read my text, she frowned.

Freya: You said one hour! It’s only been twenty minutes.

I sighed and tossed my phone on the couch.

Suddenly, Nico’s hand landed on my thigh, and I flinched.

“Right, babe?” He said.

“Uhm, I didn’t hear you,” I said and put on a fake smile. His hand tightened on me, and I was getting truly uncomfortable.

He drew closer and whispered into my ear, “Can you hear me now?”

I shivered, and my face grimaced. I couldn’t stand men who thought they could make me wet with just their voices. I’m sure he wouldn’t even make me finish.

I glanced at Ricky, and his face was unreadable. But his shoulders stiffened, and his fingers curled into fists.

“Yeah,” I said, and Nico thankfully drew away.

I can’t take this anymore. I’ll suffocate.

I abruptly stood up, and Ricky’s eyes were going up and down my body. I was dressed in a plain denim skirt and a black tank top. Nothing much to look at.

“Need something stronger.” I laughed, and Freya said she wanted the same thing as me.

I walked past Ricky, feeling goosebumps wash over my body. I could swear I felt his fingers graze me.

I rushed to the bar, exhaling deeply when I was distanced from both of them.

The dance floor behind me filled with people as music from the 2000s started to play. I couldn’t see my group, and I was glad.

My plan was to order a shot and go back to the dorm and watch Fifty Shades of Grey, as the trilogy was my comfort movies. I can’t accept any hate towards those movies. So what if they’re a bit cringy?

My hips began to move to the sound of the music, as I especially loved the old hits. With the empty shot in my hand, I rocked my body side to side.

“Enjoying yourself?”

My eyes snapped wide, and the shot glass almost slipped from my hold.

“Shhh, don’t freak out,” he whispered in his velvet voice.

His chest was pressed against my back, his right hand sneaking down my hip, while his face was in the crook of my neck.

“Please, leave me alone. Freya might see us.” I whispered, panting hard.

His fingers clutched my thigh, the same thigh Nico touched. They sneaked up, and my spine straightened.

“You love to beg, don’t you? Then beg me to stop.” He laughed, and his fingers grazed my clit.

“P-Please, I’m begging you,” I gasped, my body betraying me as I arched into his touch. “Stop…we can’t do this.”

He chuckled against my neck, his breath warm and intoxicating. “We? I can do whatever I please, darling. If I feel like it, I can bend you against this bar counter and fuck you so hard you wouldn’t be able to walk.”

His fingers spread against my folds, and my knees almost gave way under me. I didn’t have sex for two years. So, of course, I was reacting like a virgin girl.

He definitely thinks I’m one.

“Lost for words?” He asked.

The music slowly subsided, and people were returning to the bar. My heart hammered against my ribs.

His fingers made a slow circular motion and left my clit. I let out a shaky exhale, breathing heavily, leaned against him.

He suddenly spun me around and thrust me against the bar counter. His face was only inches away from mine. I swallowed hard.

He brought his fingers to his lips and then opened his mouth. His fingers went inside, and he licked them like a lollipop.

“Delicious.” He whispered.

My eyebrows snapped to my hairline. Was this guy sane? Did he just say he liked the way I tasted-

My pussy clenched.

No, no, no. I can’t like this.

“Now, you will go back and say you’re going home.” Ricky began. “If that lowlife touches you again, consequences will follow. And they will be ten times worse than what I did to you now.”

I immediately nodded and did exactly what he said. Nico wanted to know the reason why I was leaving, so I said something urgent had come up. Freya was angry but had no time to argue with me as I rushed out of there with my purse.

When I returned to Ricky, he grabbed me by my wrist and yanked me away. We were walking to his car, but before he could force me inside, I dropped to my knees.

⸻⸻

chapter 7︱devil

His car was parked at the very back of the parking lot, where even the lamp didn’t work. I was on my knees in front of him, my hands holding his.

His hands were large and hard. Pretty strong.

I was looking up at him; his eyes darkened, and his facial expression was not readable at all.

“Why are you doing this? What have I done to you? Is it because of what happened back at the party?” I asked too many questions, and he didn’t seem to like it.

I gripped his hips, closing the distance between us. “What should I do for you to let me be?”

His lips parted as if he was about to answer, but then he closed his mouth. I gradually lowered my gaze until I noticed the bulge in his pants.

I shot my gaze back up, and his pupils were dilated. A sly grin crossed his lips.

He grabbed my hand forcefully and shifted it down between his legs. He rubbed my hand against his bulge, leaning his head back with a moan.

I had no time to react, to protest.

“Seeing you on your knees for me…” He stopped mid-sentence and let a shiver wash over his body. “Makes my cock twitch,” he breathed.

My core pulsed with arousal. Why was my pussy clenching again? As if something was missing there, and it desperately needed to be thrust inside.

Ricky unzipped his jeans and shoved my hand over his briefs. His dick hardened so much it was poking over the jeans.

“Touch me, darling. Feel how hard you make me for being just on your knees.” He smirked.

Something possessed me to do as he said. Or that tiny part of me couldn’t stop wondering how his length felt in my palm.

I panted as I ran my hand up and down his cock. My panting matched his. With each stroke, each squeeze, his moans became longer and deeper.

I felt the wetness form between my legs. I was so fucking ashamed. Ashamed that I liked how it felt. His length in my hand and the wetness.

I wondered, imagining how his dick would feel inside me, my walls clenching around him, not letting him go because I wouldn’t be able to do so.

“Don’t stop.” He whimpered. “Keep stroking me like the good girl you are.”

I continued until he slowly crouched down and positioned himself on his knees. That way his dick sprang upward.

“Fuck, yes. That feels so good.” He moaned, his eyes rolling back, his cum spreading through his briefs.

The second his gaze landed on me, he lunged at me, and my back hit the ground. His mouth slammed on mine, devouring me, nibbling on my bottom lip. I let out a shriek, and he kissed me like I was his-like I’d belonged to him ever since I slept in his bed. Hell, even before that.

My lips parted, and he shoved his tongue into my mouth, sucking on my tongue, and using his hand to pin my hands above my head, pressing them firmer onto the ground.

I could barely grasp for air as he wouldn’t give me a chance to take a breath. He was like a wild animal, doing what was natural for his nature.

I could feel his hard cock between my legs. If my skirt were lifted, I could have him grind against me.

Oh, no. I’m not thinking clearly at all. This psycho totally ruined my head!

I writhed in his grasp, trying to set myself free, but it was impossible. He was too strong and much taller than I.

He licked my lips and then his while gazing into my eyes. I was scared of his look. He looked like he wasn’t sane. Like he was some sort of maniac.

Who does this in a public space anyway? Anybody could’ve walked on us.

He leaned into my ear, his hot breath sending goosebumps all over my body. “Get into my car willingly, or I’ll drag you there by force.”

He unlocked the car and got off me. He zipped his jeans up and licked his lips again. I got to my feet and shivered.

I didn’t want him to hurt me. But at the same time, I didn’t want to go anywhere with him. Somewhere where there are no people who could save me.

He waited until I got in first, and then he got in the driver’s seat. He instantly locked the car, probably because of what I did the last time.

At first, I had no clue where we were going. But then, when I saw the tall apartment building, I didn’t have to guess.

We were back in his place. He parked the car in the underground garage, and we took the elevator upstairs. Neither of us said a word to each other.

As soon as we stepped inside his home, he dragged me by the wrist to the kitchen island and hoisted me on the barstool chair. He then ran off into his bedroom, and I was intently waiting for his return.

God knows what else he will do to me.

A minute later, he came back with the first aid kit. I frowned. What the hell did he want to do with it?

He even had the time to change into different pants.

He seized my forearm and pulled it up. He studied my elbow for a few seconds, and then he applied some cooling cream on it.

It stung at first, but then it was alright. I didn’t even acknowledge that I hurt my elbow. I was too scared to pay attention to anything else.

His eyes roamed up and down my body. I was sure he’d attack me again. He never had any problem with it to begin with.

Suddenly, he wrapped his arms around my back and hoisted me up. I gasped and immediately locked my legs around his waist.

“Let me down!” I yelled into his face.

He rolled his eyes and brought me into his bedroom. Then he shoved me on top of the bed-as if he just didn’t treat my elbow-and grabbed me by my throat.

“If you let someone else touch you again, even the slightest touch, I will chop off their arms and bring them in a basket in front of your doorstep, understand?” He warned.

I nodded and started to choke from the lack of air. His smile turned into a sly smirk, and then he let go of my throat.

I coughed, and touched my throat, breathing rapidly.

Ricky walked around the bed and grabbed something from the nightstand. He returned and crawled on top of me.

He straddled me and snatched my wrist. I tilted my head to look at what he was doing, finding out he had shackled me to the bed.

My heart pounded, panic taking over me.

“How could you do this to me? To your sister’s friend?!” I shouted, and his eyes snapped at me. I flinched.

He seized my free hand and intertwined our fingers. He stared down at me, his eyes dark, full of lust and desire. A faint smile danced across his lips.

What surprised me the most was how heavily he breathed, as if he was trying to simmer down something boiling within him.

“You’re growing my interest in you, and that is a very dangerous thing, darling.” He whispered, gravelly.

I wanted to shout again, but he gave me no opportunity. His thumb invaded my mouth, twisting around my tongue.

I unwillingly licked it, and he groaned. I instantly felt his thickness against my pussy. I clenched again, and this time the emptiness was unbearable.

His thumb left my mouth, and my lips stayed parted. He drew closer to me and buried his face in the crook of my neck. He inhaled my scent and let out a deep groan.

I squeaked in pain when his teeth dug into my skin.

He was marking me, his lips pulling at my skin to leave a dark hickey. I felt a rush of pleasure despite the pain.

His head drew away to look at me, and I think my heart raced close to a heart attack.

His hand, intertwined with mine, slowly moved down my stomach between my legs. His eyes were stabbed into mine when he said, “Feel how wet I made you from merely biting you.” He slid my fingers to my clit, and oh God. I was soaking wet.

“Can you imagine what my tongue will do to you?” He added and chuckled.

I’d probably die .

“Not yet, my sweet poison. Not until you beg me for it.” He said and collapsed on top of me, wrapping his arm around me.

I won’t let that happen. I can’t let that happen. But just imagining him between my legs made me, for a moment, reconsider.

He was my best friend’s brother. I can’t sleep with him, no matter how tempting that idea may be.

I had to resist the Devil.

⸻⸻

This’s the wildest thing I’ve ever written.

Even more wild scenes will happen, hihi.

chapter 8︱team Damon

I fucking fell asleep.

When I woke up, I was no longer crushed by Ricky’s heavy body. I was sitting in the passenger seat with a blanket on top of me.

I glanced at him, then at the road. We were heading back to school. Thank God.

The music was on the lowest volume; I could barely hear anything. How considerate of him, since he kidnapped me. Again. At least he let me sleep for…how long?

I looked at the time on the dashboard, seeing it was 12 am. I was fucked.

I never came so late before. Only when we partied and we were together. Now Emery would ask me thousands of questions about my whereabouts.

“I’ll go to the police.” I suddenly blurted out.

He huffed. “And what will you say to them? That your kidnapper brought you back to the dorm? That you were unscathed when you got back?” He glanced at me. “I don’t think so.”

Fuck, he has a point.

Now I look so stupid.

“I don’t care anymore! I’ll reveal everything to your sister.” I snapped.

He abruptly stopped the car right in the parking lot, and his head slowly turned to me. This time, his eyes were dark, unfazed.

“With all due respect, I couldn’t give a single fuck about it. Let my sister know if you want.” He whispered.

He got out of the car and walked around the hood. I opened the door, ready to get out, when he slammed it shut, almost crushing my face.

He stared at me through the window, eyebrows furrowed. “I’m a gentleman.” He spoke louder so I could hear him.

Maybe I was still sleeping, imagining it all.

Ricky then opened the door for me, and I got out. I immediately distanced myself from him. “You seriously need help,” I said, and folded my arms under my chest.

He lit up a cigarette and took a long drag. He acted like I didn’t even speak to him.

I let out a loud exhale and turned on my heel to walk away, but I came to a halt when he tugged me by my long hair.

“Have I said you can go?”

I winced from his grasp, touching my hair. “Does your sister know how crazy you are? I’m sure she’d be disappointed by your inappropriate behavior.”

That maniac started laughing hysterically, almost choking on the smoke. Thank God no one was outside the parking lot, because how would I explain that I was talking to this weirdo?

“I have to admit, you’re so funny.” He said, after he calmed down.

I narrowed my eyes at him, my nostrils flared from how angry I was.

“Aww, you’re so cute getting mad at me. That for sure will work in bed.” He winked at me.

My jaw hit the floor. Was he serious? He really believed I’d sleep with a total stranger?

I carefully backed away to the stairs. His laughter was gone, his facial expression nonexistent.

“I’ll scream, and you’ll be in trouble.” I took the first few steps. “Enjoy the rest of your night, psycho.” I sprinted up the stairs, almost tripping.

I want to thank the person who invented stair railings.

Once I was inside, I could take a deep breath into my lungs. I had to get rid of him somehow. Men are easy to understand. I’m sure he took an interest in me because I was wearing revealing clothes, and there’s no other meaning behind it.

When I got into my dorm, I found Emery on her bed, studying.

“Where were you?” She asked as soon as she heard me and closed her laptop.

I tossed my stuff on top of the bed. “Working,” I replied, not meeting her gaze.

She jumped off the bed, drawing closer to me. “You’re a big, fat liar. I went there, and you were nowhere to be found.”

Oh God, help me.

I smiled and hugged Emery very tightly. “You know I love you so much, right?”

“Don’t try to bribe me off with your sweet talk, Miss! Since the party at the cabin, you have been acting weird,” she said.

My smile slowly faded. I badly wanted to tell him the truth, but I had no idea how.

“I’ll tell you everything, I swear. But for now…”

“I should let it be?” She finished.

I looked at her and nodded. I could see the disappointment because I always tell her everything.

And I was angry at myself for letting this happen. I should’ve never gone to that party. Now I’m haunted by him .

• • •

Freya, Jade, and I decided after classes to rewatch our favorite show. Emery was again somewhere with her mother, and she was so sad she couldn’t watch it with us.

Before we started, we went shopping for snacks. All the unhealthy ones.

Freya picked a lot of questionable stuff, but Jade and I let it be. She would be eating those, not us.

Once we got back into my dorm, we changed into fluffy pajamas and turned on Netflix.

The snacks were all over the bed, and I couldn’t wait to eat all of them. I never looked at the weight or stopped eating because of my figure. I enjoyed the food too much to do so. I liked my thicker thighs and ass.

“Where’s Emery again?” Freya asked, chewing the chips.

“With her mom. I think she took her with her to work.” I said.

She grabbed another chip, biting it off bit by bit like a rat.

“She doesn’t spend any time with us. I miss her.” She pouted.

“You know she can’t say no to her mom, Freya.” Jade chimed in.

Her mother was pretty strict. Emery had to be perfect in every way. Living with her showed me how much her mother influences her. Her hair has to be pin-straight, her makeup minimal, and her wardrobe limited to clothes from top designers.

Emery respects her mother. And she does love her, but sometimes she’s too much to handle. Emery tries to be strong, but I see how much she struggles, even with school.

The three of us became quiet after Jade’s comment and focused on the laptop screen. We were snuggled up together like some kids during a sleepover. Freya was in the middle, and Jade and I were beside her.

We laughed when the character cracked a joke, then started discussing it.

Then my phone buzzed.

I picked it up, reading the text message with my eyes wide and lips parted.

The psycho: You must be team Damon. If you’re not, I’ll be greatly disappointed in you, my sweet poison.

I turned off the phone screen and slowly looked over my shoulder toward the window. I saw no one in there, but I could feel his energy. Wicked and sly.

That sick fuck was stalking me.

I snapped my head back to the show, breathing heavily. Did I lock the window today? I couldn’t remember.

“I’d kill for those blue eyes,” Freya exclaimed.

I secretly looked behind my shoulder, finding him standing there with a grin across his face.

I flinched, bumping my shoulder into Freya’s.

“Sorry,” I said, and she eyed me suspiciously.

“You’re not watching the show, Aury. Is something outside?” Jade asked.

I immediately shook my head and fixed my eyes at the laptop screen. They can’t be suspicious. I don’t want them to know about Ricky. God knows what he’s capable of.

“I just thought I heard something,” I mumbled.

My phone buzzed again.

The psycho: Ignoring me, Miss? Next time, you won’t have a choice but to pay your attention solely to me.

Me: That will never happen. Get away from my window before someone sees you.

He left me on read. I guess he got angry.

For the rest of the night, we watched the show, laughing and eating, but a knot was at the bottom of my stomach. I felt something coming. A punishment.

And there was no way to avoid it. I had to be careful. Getting rid of Ricky seemed impossible.

⸻⸻

chapter 9︱horror

I was screwed.

Since that night, Ricky had been stalking me through the window; I’ve been receiving black roses. Or better to say, finding them.

They were on my bed, desk, in my closet, and even on top of my car. I’ve been finding them everywhere. Thankfully, Emery didn’t notice them. If she found out I had been getting roses, a whole-ass investigation would begin.

I can picture the look on her face when she’d find out it was her brother who gave them to me.

I shook my head and continued washing the coffee glasses. I was at work again, my legs numb. I hated working, but I needed money. I guess that’s how everyone feels, and I’m just too soft. Some people have it way worse than I do.

“Daydreaming?” Josh startled me. I immediately drew back from him so our bodies wouldn’t touch. I don’t want Ricky to hurt him because of me. He made himself very clear about what would happen to the man who’d laid his finger on me.

“I’m a bit tired, I guess,” I said with a laugh.

Josh looked at me weird. He knew I was acting out of character, but I couldn’t say the truth. I felt bad. Josh was an amazing guy.

“Take a break if you need to, Aury. There are not a lot of customers now. I can handle this by myself.” Josh said, his eyebrows furrowed.

I nodded and thanked him. Then I strode to the back, where we had a small place for sitting. I looked through the group chat we girls had and smiled over the texts.

Everyone was in a great mood, except for me. I couldn’t get Ricky out of my head. I had this constant feeling he was stalking me everywhere I went.

I was scared, scared of what he would do to me. He was that type of person who would always get what he wanted, no matter the cost, no matter the pain.

I drank a glass of water, swallowing it quickly, feeling it descend my throat. I couldn’t be scared of him with every single move I make. It’s not healthy for my mind. He has to have some kind of job or hobby. He couldn’t be stalking me day and night as if I were his only interest and priority.

I got up from the chair and took an order from a new customer.

“Aurelliaaaaa.” A familiar voice yelled.

I whipped my head to its source, finding it was Emery. Her honey blond hair was tied in a high ponytail, and she was dressed in a sleek, tight, white dress that looked too expensive.

“What does my beautiful friend want for an order?” I asked, grinning at her.

“A caramel latte, please! With extra cream.” She laughed.

“I’m finally meeting one of your friends.” Josh walked up to us.

“Oh yes! Emery, this is Josh, and Josh, this is Emery, my best friend.” I introduced them.

“Nice to meet you.” He held out his hand to her.

Emery was in a trance. Staring at him without blinking.

“Oh, yeah. Nice to meet you as well.” She said after a couple of seconds, shaking his hand.

“I’ll let you girls talk. I’ll be in the back if you need me.” Josh said, and I nodded.

Emery’s eyes still lingered on him until he was out of sight. He wasn’t really her type, or more like her mother’s choice.

“Anyway,” she began. “I didn’t come here only for coffee. I want you to come with me to the cinema to watch a horror movie.”

I burst out laughing. Emery and a horror movie? Absolutely not. Last time she almost shit her pants.

“Don’t mock me! You have to go with me.” She pouted, her arms crossed under her chest.

My eyebrow rose. “Don’t you know yourself? You can’t handle it, Emery. Not even half an hour before bailing.”

She grabbed my hands, pulling me over the counter. “There’s going to be this guy I’ve been telling you all about. You have to go with me.” Her wide green eyes stared into my soul.

I sighed, rolling my eyes. “Fine. But only because I love horror movies.”

She bowed to me and took her coffee before rushing out the door.

She was always so persuasive. I can never say no to her. Perhaps it’s because I think of her as my sister.

When Josh came back to the front, he looked around as if he were looking for Emery. When he saw she was nowhere around, he rubbed the back of his neck, looking a bit sad. Emery was searching for the right guy at the wrong place.

And again, I was getting dragged somewhere, and the last time I agreed to go, it ended in a disaster.

“Josh?”

“Yeah?” He looked at me.

“As a friend, I have to warn you. She’s like a diamond.” I said.

“I have no clue what you’re talking about.” He brushed it off, walking away to clean some tables.

• • •

We drove to the cinema. It was a fifteen-minute drive there, and I barely had a spot to park.

This movie was very popular. It was a gory horror movie. With a lot of blood, which Emery couldn’t stand.

Once we got ourselves a popcorn and soda, we sat down in the last row in the back. It had the best view, and we had it for ourselves. We sat right in the middle of the row. Emery said she chose these seats because the guy she liked was supposed to be seated right ahead of her. I had no idea how she knew that.

But she was right.

Tate Williams was a very well-known guy in our college. Every girl wanted him. And why? I don’t have the answer.

He was tall, muscular, and a hockey player. Wait, scratch that…that’s probably the reason.

Anyway, I didn’t see what they all did. For me, he was the most basic fuckboy. There was nothing special about him. Maybe because he was wearing glasses? Fuckboys don’t usually wear them.

Once the movie started, Emery drank the whole bottle of water in one go. I figured she needed an excuse for later when the movie would get intense.

I ate my popcorn, happy that I could relax. I couldn’t recall the last time I went to watch a movie. I think it was with my first boyfriend in high school. Since then, no one had ever taken me to a movie.

As the movie progressed and we were only twenty minutes in, it got pretty bad. The character in the movie was chasing people with a knife. As soon as they got under his hands, they were brutally killed.

His victims were mostly women, though. They looked like me. Dark, long hair and brown eyes. Is this what Ricky was going for? Maybe I’m not his first victim. I mean, he didn’t kill me or harm me, but he stalks me, and he kidnapped me twice!

“I-I will be right back,” Emery whispered, her palm covering her mouth.

“Should I go with you?” I asked her, and she shook her head, getting up from her seat.

“Enjoy this shit.” She mumbled, rushing off to the bathroom.

I rolled my eyes and focused on the big screen. She only wanted to come here so that when the movie ended, she’d try to have a conversation with Tate. It’s not the first time she’s done something similar to this before. And for some reason, I’m always dragged into it.

I reached my hand for the popcorn, but the box was empty. I ate it all in half an hour. What a pig.

The character stalked another random woman into an empty house, where she ran. His face was covered with a mask, so you couldn’t tell if he was young or old or if he was handsome or ugly. You could only see his towering, muscular body as he kicked off the front door, bending down to walk inside.

Numerous people even screamed as if he were chasing them instead of the woman in the movie.

My heart sank, but not because of what was happening on the screen, but because I felt someone sit beside me. In my periphery, I only saw the color black. The room was unilluminated; it was difficult to detect what was in front of me, let alone beside me.

As I tried to move to the next seat, a hand grabbed my thigh, and a sharp, cold steel was pushed against my throat.

“Where do you think you’re going?” He said into my ear.

My heart began pounding against my ribs. This was a bad dream. A nightmare I couldn’t wake up from.

I froze in place, unable to move. I was too scared to do anything. I could feel his breath on my neck as he heavily breathed.

“You could’ve invited me, you know. I love seeing blood.” He whispered and licked my ear.

I flinched.

His hand that was on my thigh moved higher, his fingers brushing my inner thigh. I winced, and he chuckled in his hoarse voice.

“Aren’t you a bit jumpy?”

I snapped my eyes to his. His pupils were dilated, a small smirk dancing on his lips.

Ricky pushed the tip of the knife further into my skin, and my eyes grew wide. His finger on my inner thigh shifted between my legs, gently caressing me through my leggings. I gasped, my heart racing.

“Do you want to kill me?” He breathed, his voice shaking. “You’re already wet for me?”

“N-No.” I stammered.

His eyebrow rose, and he shoved his hand inside my leggings. People were screaming and shouting. Even if I had called for help, they wouldn’t have heard me. I was left to his mercy.

His fingers immediately found my clit, rubbing it. I felt every brush of his finger pads. The sharp steel against my throat. I was conscious of it all. Every nerve in my body was on fire.

I let out a soft moan.

“Didn’t I promise you your attention would belong only to me, my sweet poison?” He said, his two fingers shoving into my pussy with a harsh thrust.

I gasped in pleasure, feeling my body tighten around him. His fingers moved slowly, sending waves of pleasure through every fiber of my being.

“Please-” I managed to utter.

My eyes glanced at the huge screen, seeing that the murderer caught the woman, cornering her against the wall. I related to her. I had nowhere to run as well.

His fingers moved faster and faster, and I moaned as I felt myself getting closer and closer to orgasm. The woman was getting stabbed to death, and I was in ecstasy. How ironic.

“Feel me,” he growled.

I did as I was told and reached my hand to his bulge. God, he was so hard it must’ve been painful.

“You will beg me on your knees to fuck you like an animal, Aurellia,” he smirked, and with the last thrust, I came all over his fingers, loudly moaning. He slowed his movements and withdrew from me, leaving me trembling and wanting more.

He grabbed my chin to make me look at him as he brought his fingers to his mouth and licked them all over.

“I hate you,” I whispered, panting.

He brushed his tongue over his upper lip and chuckled. “I’ll fuck you as hard as you hate me.”

I was still trembling, while he got up from the seat, the echoes of the woman screaming filling my ears. I watched him leave, fading in the darkness.

My thighs were squeezed together, my heart still racing. I couldn’t believe that just happened. That I let him touch me.

But the worst part of it is that my body liked it. I enjoyed his fingers inside me; I even craved more. I was tricked. I fell into his trap like a mouse.

Emery returned just before the movie ended, and she still didn’t look the best. After she talked to Tate by accidentally bumping into him, we exited the cinema. I rubbed my neck, remembering the knife that was against it. Remembering Ricky’s lifeless eyes full of fire. The way his voice shook when he felt my wetness, and suddenly, I had to stop in my steps.

The devil has caught me.

⸻⸻

I’ll be happy if you vote!

chapter 10︱checkmate

The weekend came, and I finally had a vacation. A week had passed since the situation with Ricky. I tried not to think of him, but my mind has been full of his eyes and broad shoulders. His warm fingers inside me.

I’ve been infected.

Emery invited all of us for a small trip with her mother. We’ve been a bit hesitant, as her mother isn’t the nicest person. But we couldn’t refuse. That would seem rude. Especially from me, since I knew Emery the longest.

We packed our stuff, and a limousine picked us up from the dorm. We were all dressed casually, just in some sweatpants and hoodies. Well, Emery’s mother, Caroline Mayer, was dressed in a jumpsuit that looked a couple of thousand dollars worth.

I wasn’t embarrassed by my clothes, but compared to hers, I felt poor.

After we greeted Emery’s mother, we got inside the limousine, and the driver placed our suitcases in the trunk.

I didn’t take much clothing. Just necessities.

The one with three suitcases was, of course, Emery. She informed us that our trip would take place in some sort of mountain in the forest. The Mayers owned the whole land there. So why would she need so much stuff with her in such a place? God knows.

This was the third time Mrs. Mayer took us on a trip. I had no clue why, though. She was usually annoyed by us. We were loud and yapping all the time.

Why do I have the feeling that Emery is the one behind these recommendations?

The drive there took us nearly an hour and a half. Like I said, it was situated in a literal forest. So, of course, it would take such a long time.

During the ride, I had my headphones on, listening to my favorite band. If nothing can calm me down, they’re my only sanctuary.

Once we took the narrow path, surrounded by tall pine trees, I knew we were almost at our destination, and my jaw hit the floor when I saw the huge estate.

I’d imagined some rustic cabin. Hell, I was so far from reality. It was a villa.

The limousine stopped right in front of it, and we slowly exited. I was the most in awe. Jade looked uninterested as always. And Freya was checking out the driver who got our suitcases out of the trunk. That sums up our personality pretty much.

“Thank you, Andrew,” Caroline said to the driver.

We grabbed our stuff and walked into the house. I was the last one to get inside, as I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the exterior. The one who built it had to get rich from it. The house was modern. A yellow, light wood mixed with black paint, filled with many large windows; you could see clearly inside. The best part of it was in the back, when we walked into the living room and saw the huge pool through the windows.

It was so big that another house could be built there. And I wasn’t exaggerating.

“Alright, ladies. Take your belongings upstairs and unpack. We will have dinner in an hour, and after that, I have prepared something for you.” Caroline announced with a smile. But not the kind one, but wicked.

“I’m already shitting my pants,” Freya muttered.

I nudged her on the shoulder, my forehead creased. “Stop, or she will hear you,” I whispered.

She raised her hands in surrender, and the four of us headed upstairs. We each had a private room-which felt insane. We parted ways into our rooms and unpacked. Well, not me. I just grabbed the most important stuff out. I hate unpacking, and also, I’m lazy.

Shortly after, Emery came in and jumped on top of my king-size bed. “Admit it, you like it here,” she said with a smirk.

I rolled my eyes, placing everything on the dresser. “You dragged us here so you wouldn’t be alone with your mother.”

“So? You’ll get food and have a comfortable bed to sleep in for two days. Doesn’t sound like a bad deal to me.” She scoffed.

I laughed. “You’re selfish, but I still love you.”

“Excuse you! Is being selfish a disease? I don’t think so.” She jumped off the bed and wrapped her arms around me. “Thank you, Aury.”

Emery was a great friend who was always with me when I needed her, so I didn’t mind when she mingled us into her family business. The girls were happy they could stay for two days in such a luxurious house without lying in those uncomfortable beds in the dorm. I got used to them over time.

And we needed a break. Them from studying, and guys, and me from the psychopath.

“Emery!” Caroline’s voice alarmed us both.

“I’m coming, Mama!” Emery yelled and quickly dashed out of my bedroom.

I moved to Jade’s room, which was right next to me, and found Freya already in there. They were snooping around the place, analyzing everything up close, and touching every object.

“I knew they were wealthy, but I get surprised every time they take us somewhere,” Freya said.

“Just be careful. Don’t break anything. We don’t want to leave a bad impression.” Jade warned.

Freya threw a dismissive hand. “When did my presence leave a bad impression?”

I peered at her. She felt my stare and looked at me.

“Okay, okay! Some things happened, but I’ll be a good girl this weekend.”

I snorted, shaking my head. “I heavily doubt that.”

Suddenly, a fluffy pillow was smashed against my face. My eyes grew wide.

“I’ll kill you!” I whispered-shouted and lunged on top of Freya, smashing her on top of the bed.

• • •

An hour later, we were called down for dinner. The Mayers solely ate expensive meals. Expensive vegetables, fruits, and meat. The portions were always small, as if we were in a fancy restaurant.

I believe that Caroline is afraid of gaining weight or something. Who would resist a hamburger or French fries?

We sat down at the long, racetrack oval marble dining table. The utensils caught my eye, as they were pure gold.

Once the servants brought us the meals, we thanked them and dove right in. We were served some type of fish that looked so delicious.

Caroline was elegantly cutting the fish with the knife and then, with a light movement, bringing it to her mouth. I tried to reproduce it, but I failed miserably.

“How’s Richard doing, sweetie?” Caroline asked Emery.

“Pretty well, actually. He might be here soon if he didn’t change his mind. He was pretty interested in our trip for some reason.” Emery replied.

Caroline stopped eating, and a long sigh left her mouth. “He will come here? As of now?”

“Y-Yes?”

“You know I’m still angry at him. I don’t want to see him, Emery.”

“I know, but he asked me all kinds of questions, such as who was coming with us and why we didn’t invite him. I couldn’t stop him.”

“So? Did he forget how he disappointed me? And this is a girls’ trip with me and your friends. He’d only ruined it.”

Jade and Freya looked at me in disbelief. They argued as if we weren’t even there. We were probably like ghosts to Caroline. Even though she mentioned us, she didn’t care that we were there.

And who is Richard? Their uncle by chance?

“Mom, please, let’s not do this while we eat. I’m sure girls are uncomfortable.” Emery softly said.

Caroline huffed and returned to eating without a word. None of us dared to utter a word. The tension in the air was suffocating.

I couldn’t stand verbal fights. The trauma in me is not yet healed. My crazy father made it impossible.

“How’s school, ladies? Are your studies going well?” Caroline asked, and I was shocked she cared for an answer.

“It’s pretty draining this semester, but we’re managing.” Freya chose to reply with a smile.

Caroline took a sip of the red wine before answering, “College is nothing compared to work. Enjoy it while it lasts.”

“We will,” Jade replied.

I could see the anger fleeting from Emery’s body. Her brows were knitted, and her breaths were harsher.

I was used to Caroline’s attitude. It’s like when guests come over and they always ask you the same question over and over again. You mechanically reply to them. The answers remain the same.

After the intense dinner, we moved to the living room and sat down on the milky leather couch. When we heard the word “board game” coming out of Caroline’s mouth, we froze. Playing with her was like going into the war. You were always defeated. Crashed by her. No matter how good your strategy was. Caroline Mayer’s was greater.

Freya was the one to go against her the last time, so now it was my turn.

Emery picked up the chess and set it on the table. I was white, and Caroline was Black.

I started first, moving the pawn forward. Caroline did the same. Back and forth, we moved the figures across the board. Every passing moment, I wanted to lose and let her win, but it seemed she didn’t want to let me go easily.

Each move felt like a strategic battle, with both of us carefully considering our next steps. The room was silent except for the soft clinking of chess pieces.

Caroline’s eyes met mine, a subtle smile playing on her lips. I knew she was enjoying the challenge. She enjoyed seeing people fall. To fail.

I kind of liked that about her. She was strong, unlike me.

As the game went on, I could tell Caroline was just as determined as me. It turned into a quiet competition, making things even tenser. I watched her knight glide across the board, take my bishop, and leave my king wide open. In that moment, I knew it was over-her next move checkmated my king.

She exclaimed, clapping her hands in victory. I was frowning because that’s the most emotion I’ve seen her experience in years.

“Another round with me?” A voice said next to my ear.

I flinched and snapped my head over my shoulder. A chill ran down my spine.

Oh, fuck me.

“Can’t you knock? You scared Aury.” Emery scolded him, and he chuckled, gazing into my eyes.

I was left stoic, my lips slightly parted. Ricky was right behind me, dressed in a black compression shirt with gray sweatpants, his long-ish hair falling over his eyes.

I looked away to not give away any signs of discomfort. Emery was still suspicious of my behavior.

“Richard! You know I’m not on speaking terms with you yet. Why did you come here?” Caroline burst out.

Richard, as for Ricky? You have to be kidding me. That’s how the bastard is truly named?

“I told you not to call me that. I hate it.” He said, annoyance in his tone.

Well, well, well. He does have a weakness.

“Emery, I forgot how hot your brother is!” Freya declared, and I sighed.

This was getting awkward, especially in front of Caroline.

I nudged Freya on her shoulder. She looked at me and mouthed, What?

“Please, don’t speak about him that way. My brother is an asshole.” Emery laughed.

“Language, sweetie,” Caroline chimed in.

Ricky sat down awfully close beside me, and I sprang up from the couch. I had no mood to play his games. To let him take control over me.

“I’m going to the bathroom,” I announced and marched upstairs into my bedroom since I had my own bathroom there.

I was afraid he’d follow me upstairs. Thankfully, he didn’t.

He was pushing me to the edge of a cliff by coming here. Jade and Freya might not remember him well from that night, but I do. He’s the one who’s terrorizing me. Stalking me.

Judging by Emery’s reaction to Freya’s words, she’d send me to hell if she knew what Ricky did to me. And that a small, buried part of me couldn’t help but like it.

I heard them chat and laugh, but I stayed in my bedroom. I took a steamy shower and dressed in a sweatshirt and leggings.

When an hour passed, I opened the door and found the downstairs silent. I guess they all went to their rooms and relaxed. That’s exactly what this trip was about.

I went to bed and scrolled through social media. It didn’t take long before panic settled in. My eyes grew wide at the text message that popped up in my notification.

The psycho : Outside. Now.

Me: Hmm, let me think about it. No.

The psycho: I wasn’t asking. Don’t make me angry and move your pretty ass outside.

Me: Well, I won’t be going. Am I your pet or something? I won’t let you dictate to me what to do.

The psycho: As you wish, then. You won’t mind that I visit my sister in her room right now and tell her the detailed story of how much you enjoyed my fingers shoved inside your pussy? How did you clench for more? The more, meaning my dick?

My jaw hit the floor.

He is truly sick in the head.

Me: Give me five minutes.

The psycho: Three.

I let out a frustrated groan and got off the bed. Fury pumped in my veins. This fucker was insufferable.

I rushed downstairs to the living room and opened the sliding glass door to go outside, where the pool was. It wasn’t too cold, but I wasn’t exactly warm in my sweatshirt.

I studied my surroundings, looking for that bastard, but he was nowhere to be found. I walked further to the back, where there was only forest, and looked around.

“Hello?” I yelled.

When silence was the answer, I sighed.

However, soon after, my phone buzzed with a text message.

The psycho: You have a five-minute head start, my sweet poison. Run as fast as you can. Don’t waste any seconds.

Now, what the fuck is this?

I reread the message to be sure I was seeing the words correctly. Unfortunately, I did.

I clutched the phone in my hand and moved my legs forward. I was very good at running, so I sprinted, not looking over my shoulder.

Catch me if you can, bastard.

⸻⸻

Check out my Spotify playlist for the story! Link in the bio.

chapter 11︱goddess

I think I got lost.

I took a few turns, and now every tree and every path looked identical.

I don’t hate the color green, but I won’t be seeing it for a while when I get out of here.

I felt like throwing up, my head was dizzy. I leaned against a random tree and took deep breaths into my lungs.

I have to calm down.

I closed my eyes and steadied my breathing. After a few moments, I opened them and strolled north along the path. I turned on the flashlight on my phone and lit the way. It was so dark, I could barely see anything. I couldn’t panic, or otherwise I’d never get out of this forest.

Ricky is somewhere out there, so I’m not by myself. The problem is, he’s on a hunt, not looking for me because I’m lost.

I trudged on, careful to watch my step to stay on the path. I felt a chill run down my spine as I heard a rustling in the bushes. I quickened my pace, too scared to turn around. Was it Ricky or something else? We were on a mountain with God knows what monsters.

I should’ve stayed inside. This was a mistake.

The more I walked, the more I realized how weak I am. I don’t remember the last time I went for such a long walk. I hated doing sports in high school, except for running. That’s the only sport I sincerely enjoyed.

It was the adrenaline of running away from the real world. To be only in my head, and hear my quick heartbeat and rapid breaths. To have no time to study my surroundings, only the road ahead of me.

I saved myself by running.

That night still gives me nightmares from time to time, when I’m stressed or sad. I have it saved in the back of my mind. The blood. The scream. The knife. How I helplessly lay on the kitchen tiles, while my father was about to murder me. Hell, it makes my stomach recoil at the thought of him.

I ask myself, after all these years of him being in prison, what did I do to deserve his hatred? Why was I about to be punished?

Just as I was losing hope of getting out of here, I heard footsteps behind me. I came to a halt and spun. I pointed the flashlight at the person in front of me. It was Ricky, with a Ghost face mask on his face.

I automatically took a step back, my hand slightly shaking. He stood there motionless like a statue, just looking at me.

“You caught me, Ricky. Let’s go back inside. I’m cold.” I said, my voice shaky as I crossed my arms.

But he didn’t reply and didn’t move.

I began to worry.

“It’s not funny anymore. I want to go back.” My voice trembled.

He cocked his head and flexed his chest muscles. I swallowed hard and took another step back, and another, until I was running away from him. I sprinted down the trail, my heart pounding in my chest.

My flashlight stopped working as my phone battery died, and I cursed everyone who was on the tip of my tongue.

I tripped over a rock and landed on the ground. I heard his footsteps behind me. I scrambled to my feet and sprinted away, my heart pounding, and my breath coming in ragged gasps.

But because I couldn’t see shit, I collided with a tree and fell to the ground. I yelped, my heartbeat pulsing in my ears.

Of course, this is happening to me.

Ricky’s hand wrapped around my throat and pinned me to my back. Breath knocked out of my lungs, and I could hardly breathe when his fingertips pressed into my airways.

“Wait!” I shrieked.

He wasn’t even doing anything yet, but I wanted to stop him beforehand.

His free hand roamed through my messy hair. He even tucked a strand behind my ear, like he wasn’t choking me.

“I told you to run. But you got caught anyway.” He suddenly spoke, his voice so deep I was sure it wasn’t his.

I gasped for air, digging my nails into his arm. But he didn’t even wince. I’m sure he felt no pain. He must be heartless.

“I like that helpless look in your eyes. It’s cute.” He whispered and snaked his head in front of mine. He grabbed my chin, studying my trembling lips.

His hand that was choking me relaxed, and I could finally take a deep breath. Then I coughed and cleared my throat.

“Are you shivering because you’re that cold?” His voice was suddenly softer, and I pierced my eyes at him.

“I’m shivering because of you, you bastard!” I seethed.

“Oh, right.” He shook his head. “It’s time for dinner.”

His hands shoved off my leggings, throwing them meters away. His warm, long fingers spread my legs and lifted them onto his shoulders.

The sight of him being masked between my legs lit my core on fire.

He slid his mask off his face and shook his head; his long-ish hair became messy, thrown in every direction. His eyes found mine in an instant. They darkened, their hue like an ash.

I was too aware of his grip around my thighs. It was the only thing I could focus on. Their grip wasn’t gentle. His fingers were buried into my skin, and the pain was detectable.

“You have three seconds to stop me from what I’m about to do. After that, you’ll be devoured, darling.” He breathed.

The thing is, I didn’t want him to stop. No matter how twisted it was. No matter how insane it was. I’d be lying to myself if I said I didn’t like him between my legs.

The way he was looking at me as if I were his favorite meal made my heart pang. I almost thought it would burst open.

He smirked, and his gaze dropped between my legs. “The time is up.”

My panties were pushed by force to my knees, and his lips attached to my pussy. I gasped as he kissed me, slowly with his tongue. He ran it along my pussy from bottom to top, brushing it then around my clit. My breath came in soft pants, and with each lick of his tongue, I shuddered.

“I’ll never get enough of you.” He panted against my wetness, and his hot breath made me more aroused.

Why was my body reacting to him in such a way? I should be disgusted. Disturbed. But instead, I couldn’t help but want more of his strokes. More roughness with my body.

Since when did I start to like being treated this way?

When his tongue invaded my inside, it was with a strong thrust. My back arched, and a moan spilled out of my mouth. Thank God we were deep in the forest, otherwise the girls would’ve heard me.

The only ones who can hear me now are probably squirrels.

He whirled his tongue, hitting my sweet spot, which I didn’t know I had. Then he kissed me again, his soft lips so warm.

Somehow my hand sneaked on top of his head and pushed his face deeper between my legs. I wanted to crush him. To stay there until I felt good.

He didn’t seem to mind what I was doing. It was the other way around. He groaned and thrusted into me faster and harsher.

“I hate you.” I panted, pulling on his hair.

“Hate me as much as you want. That doesn’t change the fact that you’re moaning loudly because of my tongue inside your cunt.” He said after he met my gaze.

With the last invasion of his tongue, orgasm washed over me like a strong wave. I almost ripped Ricky’s hair from his skull, my thighs pressed against the sides of his head.

As the ecstasy subsided, my breaths regulated, his lips gave me pecks on my pussy. Multiple ones, and I thought I’d come again.

“You’re so beautiful, Aurellia. No one will ever see you like this again, except for me. Your legs will be wrapped only around my neck. Your moans only belong to my ears, and this cunt is owned by me.” Ricky said in a lower voice.

I was startled by hearing my full name coming out of his mouth. It’s rare if someone calls me that. And even though I prefer my nickname, I enjoyed hearing it with his low soothing voice. The one that could put you to sleep.

“A person’s body parts can’t be owned.” I pointed out.

“Oh, they fucking can.”

“Who said so?”

“Me.”

“And who are you exactly to claim that?”

“Your God, darling. I’ll say whatever the fuck I want and do. I’m owning all of you, not just your cunt. But that, especially.” He smirked.

I scoffed, rolling my eyes. “You’re not right in the head. Are you aware of that fact?”

“I’ll never be in my right mind when I’m this close to you.” He softly said, staring into my eyes.

Strong wind blew right through me, and I could feel it in my bones. I shivered, my eyes squeezed.

Without a warning, I was lifted onto my feet. I yelped, holding onto his arms. He grabbed my leggings and slipped them up my legs. Then he hoisted me into his arms, his hot body warming mine.

At that moment, I didn’t want to detach from his skin. I wanted to be glued to him.

He carried me all the way back to the villa. I had no idea how he knew the right way. But after ten minutes we got back, passing through the parking lot.

A woman’s loud moan echoed through the parking lot.

“Seems we’re not the only ones who were having fun tonight,” Ricky said and grinned.

But the more my eyes focused on the woman, the greater my shock increased. Because the moaning woman was no one else than Freya, fucking the driver whom she eyed for the whole drive here.

I really wouldn’t care about her intimate life, but if Caroline found out about this, she would never forgive her. I writhed, trying to get down, but obviously Ricky wouldn’t let me go.

“What do you want to do? Go there and make the situation awkward as hell? Just let them be.” He said, searching my eyes.

“But, if your mother sees this, it’s so over for us and Emery. She will hate us collectively, and I don’t want to lose friendship with your sister.” I reasoned.

“My mother doesn’t go out in such a dark. And I can picture her right now, as she’s snoring. She even has earplugs in.”

Ricky knows her mother more than I do, but there was still some chance, he could be wrong, and she might hear Freya’s moans. I don’t think I’ll ever recover from hearing that.

“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I believe you. But only for this matter.” I stated.

He laughed and tightened his hold around me. Without another word, he carried me into the house, up the stairs, into my bedroom. He silently opened the door and gently closed it. Then he put me down on the bed and walked backward until his back touched the door.

I stared at him.

He stared at me.

“Now it’s your cue to leave. Like right now.” I said.

He shook his head with a smirk.

“Ricky-”

“I love how you say my name.” He cut me off.

I sighed. This can’t be happening.

“What else do you need?” I asked.

“The better question is, what do you need, darling? Do you know the rewarming method? When one person is too cold, so he gets naked and the other does the same, and they lie naked glued to each other so they would get warm again?”

“That only happens when you experience hypothermia, Ricky. I was not in freezing water.” I rolled my eyes. “And if that was the case, you’d need fire as well, not only someone’s warmth.”

“But that’s my point, baby. I’m all the fire you need.” He claimed in a gravelly voice and stalked toward me.

I raised my feet on the bed and immediately crawled backward. “W-What are you doing?!” I whisper-shouted.

He lunged at me, locking his arms around me. He pressed me to his chest, my face nuzzling into his neck. I could barely breathe from how firmly he was embracing me.

Was he always smelling so nice? Like autumn, cinnamon and vanilla. I never smelled a scent like that on a man. They usually go for more masculine fragrances to show off their dominance. This can’t be his fragrance, right?

“With how many other girls do you do this chasing with?” I asked after a couple of seconds of silence. I tilted my head to see his reaction.

He looked flabbergasted.

“Why do you think I pay this much attention to anyone who is not you? Is my darling getting jealous?” He clutched my chin in his firm grip.

“In your nightmares.” I frowned.

He chuckled, and his dimples showed. I sensed a pang in my chest.

What the fuck was that?

Suddenly, his forehead bumped into mine. “Tell me the reason why you are asking me this.”

I knew he wouldn’t let it go, so I burst out, “Because of your fragrance. I smell vanilla and cinnamon. Men don’t wear such sweet scents.”

His eyes widened. “You noticed? You’re getting more interested in me.”

“N-No, I don’t-”

“I like sweet scents. It reminds me of you. In fact, I’d eat you whole if I could.”

That was concerning. Did he just admit to cannibalism?

He pushed my head back into the crook of his neck, and his leg was tangled with mine. I couldn’t escape him. I had no way out.

For a slight moment, it actually felt nice, if I wasn’t reminded of the fact that it’s my sister’s brother who kidnapped me, and tongue-fucked me in a forest.

“You’re my Goddess. I’ll only pleasure you. My hands won’t touch anyone else.” He whispered into my ear, and I shivered.

⸻⸻

chapter 12︱beastly

When I opened my eyes, he was gone.

For some reason, I was colder. His body was always in flames, so now that he was gone, I fucking missed it. But only for the sole reason of his warmth. It’s definitely not because of him. I don’t miss that bastard at all.

But he got under my skin, into my veins. I have to find a way out. I have to find a way for him to hate me. I can’t keep up with his madness before he infects me with it, too, and I’ll no longer know my morals.

It’s already crazy in my head.

I took a shower and got dressed in oversized gray sweatpants with a T-shirt of my favorite metal band. I brushed my hair up into a ponytail and sprayed myself with my everyday fragrance. When I reached the downstairs, no living soul was there.

“Hello?” I called, but no one answered me.

I picked up my phone, texting Emery where everyone went, and turned on my heel back upstairs when I came to an abrupt halt and crashed against someone’s chest.

“All by yourself, gorgeous?”

I looked up from my phone to find smirking Ricky looking down at me.

“If you’re wondering where they all are, I have the answers.” He said. “My sister, mother, and your gothic friend went shopping because apparently they need new dresses for the gala event that will be happening because of my mother’s work, even though they probably have around thousands of them, and your other friend, Frena? Was that her name? She’s in the garage fucking our driver again.”

No words could describe how much I wanted to erase that smirk off his face with my fist.

“Alright,” I said with a fake smile and immediately dropped it when I turned around to grab something to eat in the kitchen.

They could’ve brought me with them instead of leaving me alone with the psycho.

I immediately texted Emery.

Me: Thanks for leaving me behind.

After a couple of seconds, she replied.

Emery: Sorryyyyy, but you were sleeping in such an adorable way I couldn’t bring myself to wake you up. And you deserve hours of sleep! Will be back soon xx.

I sighed and strode to the kitchen. I opened the fridge and stared at my options. There was a ton of food.

“Don’t eat this crap. I’ll cook for you.” His hot breath was right next to my ear, his firm, broad chest pressed against my back.

I flinched, my heart beating faster.

I looked over my shoulder upward to meet his gaze. This time, he was simply looking at me. But in a different kind of vibe? It was softer than other times.

I elbowed him and darted to the kitchen island. “No, thanks. I don’t want to eat your poison.” I said.

He chuckled, not seeming to be in pain whatsoever.

“You think I’d poison you? You think very highly of me. I like that.” He stalked toward me and leaned against the kitchen island, his legs crossed at the ankle.

I rolled my eyes, pouring a bit of tea that was already cold into a mug. “I don’t think highly, but lowly of you. Lowest you could imagine after what you did.”

“Oh, I apologize, darling. I shouldn’t have left your side in the morning, but you wouldn’t like to get caught by my sister, would you?”

I snapped my eyes at him, my eyebrows knitted together. “Are you sick? It’s not because of that. I meant what happened in the forest.”

“And what happened there was you getting so much pleasure that your pussy was drenched, begging for my cock. Since you didn’t get what you desired, you pushed my face even deeper so I could lick you better.” He grinned.

My heart then sank into my stomach, and my breathing quickened. I wasn’t in my right mind yesterday. Something possessed me to do so. It can’t be my wanting, right? I couldn’t crave this psycho.

“Have nothing to say anymore?” He drew the distance between us, his chest touching mine. “You don’t like hearing the truth, do you? You are rather delusional and pretend that what I told you was caused by something else. Perhaps the devil.” He laughed, and I was slightly shaking.

“I hate you.” I seethed, peering at him.

His eyebrow rose. “Love that. Keep the hate coming.” He whispered.

When I tried to push his chest away, it didn’t move even an inch. My hand, though, remained there, applying some pressure so it would look like I hadn’t given up. However, I knew I had lost.

My eyes watched his chest falling and rising in rapid rhythm, and I could swear on my life his heart was beating as fast as mine.

Then his huge hand fell onto mine, and he stared at it in awe.

“Isn’t it so cute that your hand is so small compared to mine?” He said and searched my eyes. But I didn’t reciprocate it. I didn’t want to look into his deep gray eyes and see something that might have been buried deep within me.

My eyes were focused on his hand on top of mine. How our fingers were interlaced, and I could recognize the different lengths of our fingers.

His hand was beastly in comparison to mine, which was fragile. If he wanted to, he could crush my bones with a single squeeze.

My chin was suddenly jerked up by his firm grip on my chin. “Look me in the eyes when I’m speaking to you.” He growled.

My lower lip trembled, but I managed to speak. “And if I don’t? What will you do then?”

“Then I’ll show you what your worst nightmares look like, but ten times worse. My version.”

I didn’t break our eye contact because I didn’t want to lose another silent battle. But it was difficult. I wanted to run away from his presence into my bedroom and lock the door. I was learning to be brave and fearless. I’m definitely not Freya.

“Now,” he let go of me and grabbed the knife from the drawer. “What do you want to eat, baby?” he said, his voice suddenly higher and playful.

I rounded the kitchen island and took a seat on a stool. I admit I was hungry as hell. And my cooking skills are poor.

“Will it be edible?” I taunted.

His eyebrows rose to his hairline. “You will be licking the whole plate.”

And he was right.

Painfully right.

He served me a simple mac and cheese, but I ate the whole plate. I didn’t lick it as he said I would, but I was close to doing it.

Who knew a psycho like him could have such cooking skills?

How embarrassing that I can’t even prepare something like this.

He watched me as I ate. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, and I could see all the tattoos that he had there. The veins popping out of his skin were so profound.

God, why am I staring at his hands?

Suddenly, he strode to me, turning me to his body, his hands holding the chair.

“We have some time for ourselves. We should make use of it.” He said, smiling at me with his perfectly white teeth.

I folded my arms under my chest, my brow lifted. “And how would that be? You seriously think I’ll let you touch me again?” I scoffed. “Well, you’re wrong. Keep up with the delusions.”

His smile dropped, and his eyes narrowed. “You have a sharp tongue, but be careful what’s coming out of there before I find another use for it.”

I gulped.

“You belong to me, sweet poison. I’ll have you whenever I desire or feel like it. And there’s nothing you can do about it.” He said, his tone wicked.

I chuckled, swung under his arm, and slipped away from the chair, running towards the grand staircase. But before I could take the first step, my head was yanked back with his grip around my ponytail.

I was slammed against the pool table, and a gasp left my mouth.

Ricky grabbed my face with his hands and savagely kissed me. If that wasn’t enough, he bit my lower lip, and I sensed warm blood. It was immediately smeared with his lips, so he had a bit of my blood on his mouth.

I pressed my hands against his chest, pushing him away, but he only smiled against my lips and continued to assault my mouth.

Then he did the unthinkable. He invaded my mouth with his unnerving tongue.

He twirled my tongue against his, and I was rewarded with his hard nips, his fingers tugging on the sides of my face to keep me glued to his mouth.

He rolled my bottom lip between his teeth and nibbled on the skin until I was whimpering, shuddering, and fucking shaking against him. He was devouring me. Eating me like I was his favorite meal.

Between the gasps and rapid breaths, I found myself leaning into him. Chasing his mouth that was teasing me by drawing away.

I thought he would crush my skull with his firm grip. He acted like he was on drugs, not paying attention to anything else.

“Well, this is very unexpected.”

I froze at the sound of Freya’s voice.

Ricky didn’t seem to care, but I did. I pushed his chest this time with greater strength and moved him just a little beside me.

Freya stood there, looking at me with her eyes wide.

“You have some explaining to do, young lady.” She said, her hands set at her hips.

Ricky, in the meantime, left my side like a ghost, probably to go outside and not be part of this conversation.

“This isn’t-well, it looked, but it’s not-” I stammered.

“Spare it, girl.” She held a palm to my face as she rushed to me. “I don’t blame you. He’s hot as fuck.”

I shook my head. “No, he’s a prick. And I didn’t want that to happen.”

“But it did, and it seemed like you enjoyed it. Like, quite a lot.” She nudged my shoulder.

I took her hands in mine and squeezed them. “Emery can’t know about this. Don’t say a word to her.” I whispered.

She frowned. “Why not? She’s our friend. There should be no secrets. So what if you want to fuck her brother?”

I sighed loudly. “If you talk, I’ll talk. I saw you with the driver yesterday.”

Her eyes grew wide in horror. “My lips are sealed, girl.” She smirked. “But he was a good fuck.” She laughed.

I shook my head in disbelief, smiling.

We were both pretty rotten.

• • •

When Emery, Caroline, and Jade returned, it was already lunch. They were all in a pretty good mood, laughing and whispering something to each other-well, except for Caroline. But even she had a faint smile on her face.

“I bought the most beautiful dresses. You have to see them.” Jade exclaimed, and Emery was right behind her.

“Oh, good for you. Do I know you, stranger?” I said in a monotone and darted to the dining room.

“Don’t be so. If you had heard how loud you were snoring and your legs and arms cracked like a character from a horror movie, you wouldn’t wake yourself up as well.” Emery chimed in.

“Exactly, little sis.” Ricky came out of nowhere and took a seat.

I wanted to say something very nasty, but then Caroline walked in, so I bit my tongue.

Reluctantly, I sat down opposite Ricky and folded my arms. I was still mad at them for not taking me with them.

Soon after Freya joined us, we were all present, waiting for the food.

“Richard, I hope you don’t have any plans after this lunch.” Caroline suddenly said, staring at him.

“I told you I hate it when you call me that. No one uses my full name.” Ricky rolled his eyes.

Caroline’s eyebrows furrowed. “I don’t care enough about what other people call you. I chose this name, so I’ll keep using it.”

Ricky seemed furious, but he didn’t talk back. He simply slid into the chair and shifted his eyes to me.

“You didn’t answer me, Richard,” Caroline added, tapping her fingers against the table.

He turned to her, and all the anger disappeared. “No, Mom. I don’t have any plans after lunch. Why?”

“Well, since Aurellia is clearly mad, she didn’t come with us; you will take Freya and her to buy an elegant dress for the gala. And I don’t take no for an answer.” Caroline ordered.

I waved my hands dismissively. “There’s no need for that! I was just being childish-”

“I’ll do as you wish, Mom.” Ricky cut me off and glanced at me with a smirk.

This damn bastard.

⸻⸻

chapter 13︱unhinged

When the lunch ended, Emery badly wanted to join us in the shopping, but Caroline refused to let her go. She said she had something important to discuss with her.

Freya looked excited because she didn’t need to pay with her own money for the dress, and I was enraged.

Spending another minute with this psycho will bring me to my grave.

I asked Jade if she wanted to come with us, but she said she wanted to stay in because Kaiden was calling her.

I wonder how long it will take them to date.

I headed down the stairs and then outside, where Ricky’s car was parked. He was already there, leaning against the hood of the car, his arms folded with a cigarette in his hand.

“I’ll pick the dress for you.” He suddenly said after he released a long puff of smoke.

“Only in your dreams.” I scoffed and stopped a good three meters away from him. Safe distance.

He chuckled, but in that kind of way, his teeth showed.

“You don’t want to make me angry, baby. Get in the car.” He ordered, this time his tone cold.

Freya then appeared, and I felt relieved.

“Curly girl, you’re not coming with us,” Ricky announced.

“What? Why?” I frowned.

“Because I said so. Get in the car already.”

Like hell I will.

I folded my arms and tilted my chin high.

Ricky threw the used cigarette on the concrete and stalked toward me. With each step, my heart thumped harder and quicker, but I stayed stoic.

“Your fuck buddy is waiting for you in the limo.” He said to Freya, and she turned red.

“Guess we will meet at dinner! And please don’t kill each other.” She exclaimed and rushed to the back of the house.

One day, I’ll kill you for this betrayal, Freya.

Ricky’s gaze moved to me, and I gulped. He had this raging aura around him. It wasn’t still. And you never knew what he would do next.

His hand attached to my nape, and I flinched. He put pressure on it until I began moving my legs.

“You should get help!” I shrieked.

“I’m already a lost cause, darling.” He laughed in an evil way and opened the passenger door.

He pushed me in and then got into the driver’s seat.

Before we drove off, he turned on the music, and my eyes grew wide when I heard it was my favorite song, The

Worst In Me , from my favorite band, Bad Omens .

My head snapped at him, and he already had a smirk plastered on his face.

“You think I don’t know every band and every song that you listen to? I know them by memory; I could list them all right now if you want.” He said.

“T-That’s not needed.” I looked back at the road.

“Is it not?” He asked and placed his hand on my thigh.

I suddenly became too hot, and sweat began to form on my forehead.

“Hands on the wheel, Ricky.”

“God, my name coming out from your lips is my favorite sound.” He murmured.

I pressed my thighs tighter together, and he immediately noticed it because his hand shifted higher, and I had to suppress a moan.

“You love my hand up your thigh, don’t you?” he said and chuckled.

I instantly seized him, but his grip was too strong. I couldn’t move his hand even by an inch.

“I fucking hate you.” I burst out and turned my head to the window.

He chuckled. “Hate me even more, baby.”

I rolled my eyes and focused on the dashboard. His car was spotlessly clean and shiny. It tells a lot about a person’s personality. My first boyfriend had a really dirty car. I almost threw up, when I smelled rotten eggs.

Ricky really cares about his car.

I opened the glove compartment, and there was nothing except for a white pill bottle. He immediately shut it before I could take a closer look at it.

“Are you ill or something?” I asked, and his eyebrows were knotted together.

“No,” he grumbled.

“Then what are those pills for-”

“That’s none of your business, is it?” He sneered.

Rude.

“I’m none of your business as well, so why can’t you just let me be?” I said.

“No.”

“But why? Why me, and why are you so interested in me?!”

“You ask too many questions, and if you don’t stop, I’ll shut your mouth with duct tape.”

I exhaled furiously and folded my arms. This guy can’t be sane or normal. He won’t explain why he’s doing this and acts like a jerk to me. He’s hot and then cold.

The car stopped before a boutique. And a very luxurious one. Ricky got out of the car first because when I tried to open the door, it was locked, of course. He then opened the door for me, and I reluctantly got out.

I had to walk in front of him so he’d see I wouldn’t run away. We got inside the boutique, and women around the age of thirty welcomed us. They immediately recognized Ricky, so I assume Caroline called them beforehand, or he came here before with some other girls.

“And you must be Aurellia. Nice to meet you. We will pick the best dress for you.” The woman with blond hair greeted me.

“Thank you so much,” I said, and shook her hand.

They showed us all the dresses they had available, and I was speechless. Not only were they glamorous, but they were more expensive than my house.

Suddenly, a large hand wrapped around my waist, and I stiffened.

“Pick this one, baby,” Ricky whispered into my ear, and I shivered.

The dress was black velvet, with a slit up the leg. The cleavage was revealing, and the straps were thin.

They were beautiful, and I’d for sure look good in it.

“She wants to try them on,” Ricky announced.

“Can you stop speaking instead of me? I have a tongue, you know.” I murmured.

“Yeah, I know. And a very tasty one.” He smirked, and his hand moved to my ass.

My eyes grew wide. I elbowed him in the chest and took a step aside. When he wanted to reach for me again, the woman walked with the dress to the fitting room, so I quickly followed her. Ricky was right behind me, ready to enter as well, but the other woman with red hair stopped him.

“You can sit here while waiting, Mr. Mayer.”

I grinned and closed the door behind me.

The woman hung the dress and exited the fitting room. I quickly changed into the dress to leave as soon as possible.

When I saw myself in the mirror, I froze. I almost didn’t recognize myself. The dress hugged my every curve and made my breasts fuller. The slit defined my long legs, and especially, it looked sexy.

Because the dress was dark, my cheeks looked redder as well as my lips.

Somehow, Ricky picked the best dress for me.

The door suddenly flung open, and I got startled. Ricky marched inside and eyed me up and down. Then he did it again and again until his chest tensed and his breaths were harsh and loud.

He started to walk toward me, and I backed off. But since the space was literally made for one person, my back met the wall.

Ricky barricaded me with his hands on either side of my head. He bit his lower lip while peering at me, and I swallowed. His eyes were dark. Unhinged.

He seized my throat with brutal strength, and all the air whooshed out of my fucking lungs.

“I can’t let anyone see you like this. To see your perfect body so revealed.” His voice shook. “Your breasts are only meant to be seen by me-touched by me.” His hand trembled when he firmly squeezed them. He acted so strangely. As if he were in another state of mind.

I clutched my fingers into his forearm, my fingernails digging into his skin. My breaths came in shallow gasps, and I struggled to pull in enough air. I was starting to get dizzy.

“Is everything okay in there?” I faintly heard the woman ask.

“R-Ricky.” I wheezed, seeing stars.

I hate my life.

⸻⸻

Yes, I didn’t hold back on this story.

100% unhinged.

chapter 14︱empty

For some seconds, he solely stared into my eyes, his pupils small. As if he was shaken up from some trance, his strength gradually subsided, until his fingers hung loosely around my neck.

I began to cough and inhale sharply.

He almost killed me. I thought he was just fooling around, but this guy had some serious issues, and I didn’t want to be killed because of it.

He suddenly pressed me against his chest, and I flinched. He swiftly pulled my hair tie down and buried his face into my hair. He was trembling violently, his heartbeat banging against his chest and against mine.

“Miss Aurellia?” the woman called again.

I cleared my throat, but it was completely dry. “It’s okay. Don’t come inside.”

Ricky was holding onto me for dear life, and I was scared he’d try to hurt them. Something was wrong with him. I’d rather stay in such a position, until he calms down than make it worse by trying to leave.

We were glued to each other for about five minutes. Then Ricky eased his hold of me and whispered, “Take this dress. We’re leaving.”

He stormed out of the fitting room, and the door behind him slammed shut. I winced, and my shoulders slumped. I could finally breathe normally again. It was like he sucked all the oxygen away, and I was suffocating.

When I changed back into my clothes and left the fitting room, both of the women were strangely and worriedly staring at me. I simply smiled and told them I was taking the dress. They didn’t say a word to me, and I was glad I didn’t have to explain that Ricky is a maniac.

They packed the dress, and I quickly left the store. Ricky was already waiting for me in the car. I wanted to run, but I didn’t want to anger him again.

However, I slid into the back seat instead.

“No, sit in the front.” He ordered.

“No, I won’t sit in the front.” I snapped.

I felt my heart race as he turned around, and his gaze locked onto mine. His hand grabbed the headrest of the seat next to him.

“What’s your problem again?” He burst out.

“You’re my problem.”

His eyes narrowed.

“Well, too bad you can’t get rid of it.”

He drove off, music blasting out of the speakers. I tried not to look at him and kept my head turned to the window, but it was difficult. It was like his presence was luring me to him.

It took me a good fifteen minutes to notice we were heading the wrong way. And why? Because instead of focusing on the road, my eyes were on that bastard.

“Where are we going?” I asked with a worry in my tone.

“To a place where I’ll proceed with my punishment.” He chuckled.

Proceed with what? Did I hear that right?

“Ricky, stop with this. It’s not funny anymore. Turn around.” I urged.

“Won’t be happening.” He grinned and sped up.

I leaned back against the seat and took a deep breath. I told him I wasn’t scared of him, but now I was contemplating it. Because I’ve never seen him like that before. I was seriously scared that he’d hurt me.

It didn’t take long before he stopped the car on a hill, where you could see the whole town. But since it was only afternoon and cloudy, it didn’t look as magical.

He got out of the car and then opened my door. This time, I helped myself out.

Thunder echoed in the distance, and I didn’t like it. I was a bit scared of thunderstorms. But more terrified of Ricky, and what his punishment was.

He reached his hand to me, and I winced. When nothing happened, I glanced at him, and I couldn’t believe I saw his hurt face.

“You said you’re not scared of me,” he said.

I opened my mouth, but then quickly closed it.

“Get on your knees. Now.”

I frowned, my heart beating faster.

“Ricky, where are you going with this?” My voice was full of panic, but I began to move backward in small movements.

We were in an open location, so even if I ran, I’d have nowhere to hide. My only option was the car, but Ricky was holding the keys. It was still better than nothing. I could lock myself from the inside, and every time he’d unlock the car, I’d lock it.

“Stop moving.” He growled.

But I was already behind the trunk. I swiftly spun and opened the back door. I crawled inside, and as I was about to shut the door, Ricky clutched the rim of it. I yelped when he grabbed onto my leg. However, he didn’t drag me out; he merely stopped me from exiting through the other door. Once he was inside, he locked the car and hid his keys inside his pants.

He pulled me by the leg toward him, and he basically threw himself at me. The storm meanwhile moved, and a heavy rainfall began with loud thunder banging in the sky.

He pinned my hands beside my body and

crushed his lips against mine with such intensity that it took my breath away. His tongue slipped into my mouth, tasting and exploring me like a madman.

He broke the kiss just long enough to growl out a strangled moan before his mouth was back on mine, claiming me with an unwavering possessiveness. His hands gripped my wrists, his hold almost painful, but I didn’t care. All I could think of was his touch, his body pressed against mine, the heat between us.

His lips trailed down my jawline, leaving a burning path of kisses down the side of my neck. “I want your lips,” he murmured between kisses, “around my cock.”

Ricky then got off me and unlocked the car. But I didn’t even react to it as his words repeated in my head.

He waited for me in front of the door, intently watching me. I moved into a seating position and then got outside. The rain immediately fell on my hair and face. It was a warm rain. Kind of nice to feel on my skin.

I shifted to my knees and looked up to see Ricky’s face. He was smirking, his long-ish hair plastered on his face, I could hardly see his eyes.

He unzipped his pants and freed his huge and hard cock. Before, I only held it.

“I know you want to taste me as much as I want your lips around me.” He began. “I can see how your thighs are clenched together right now because you want me inside you. You love seeing me being hard.”

My lips parted, and he took that chance to put his thumb inside my mouth. He twirled my tongue, and I unconsciously licked it. It was like a reflex.

“Perfect.” He muttered before he lifted his cock with one hand and his thumb was replaced by his dick. The tip of his dick slipped through my lips, and my insides burned.

“Oh, fuck .” He exclaimed and pumped hard into my throat. I thought I’d choke. Thank God I had no gag reflex.

He kept on thrusting in me, and I relaxed my jaw so he could go even further. I maintained eye contact with him, and I swear he hardened just because of that.

“Ahh, keep sucking me, baby. Don’t stop, it feels so fucking good.” He moaned.

I was dripping wet, and not only in a literal way. My pussy pulsed and throbbed. I needed to be satisfied by him. I wanted him inside me.

The fact that I admitted to myself was painful.

Not only was I scared of him, but I was also turned on by him. I needed therapy, and a lot of it.

It didn’t take long before his moans became strangled, so I worked quicker, my tongue then licking the tip.

When I went back to sucking his length, he grabbed a fistful of my hair and tugged on it back and forth.

For some reason, it didn’t hurt. And for some reason, I didn’t care that he did that.

“Yeahhh, darling. Your mouth is so perfect.” He breathed, and he came into my mouth, his warm liquid spreading down my throat.

“Swallow it.” He panted, his eyes dark. “Don’t let a drop of my cum be wasted.”

I listened to him, and in that moment I lost all my remaining dignity because why the hell I couldn’t pull myself from him, to refuse him?

⸻⸻

chapter 15︱memories

Being back at college felt great. Maybe it was due to the fact that I hadn’t seen Ricky for a whole week straight.

Not since what happened that day.

I tried to erase those memories of it. But I failed. It was like he had infected my mind.

Since that day, I couldn’t stop thinking about him. About his weird behavior. And how he’s strangely obsessed with me-he even stalks me.

I wanted to know, why me? But would he give me an honest answer? I doubt that.

I was at work, making coffee for a customer, but my head was in the clouds. Why hasn’t he contacted me? Or met me? Did something happen?

“Ugh, I hate this,” I mumbled, shaking my head.

“Do you hate your job, Aury?” Josh asked from behind me, laughing.

I finished the coffee, and the customer happily left. At least I’m good at making coffee.

“No, of course not. How could I when you’re here?” I patted him on the shoulder.

He nodded with a smile and began washing the dishes.

“So, where were you again this weekend?” he asked.

I took a deep breath. “I was at one of Emery’s houses, with her mother and girls.”

I didn’t need another reminder from Josh about that awful weekend.

“How’s Emery, by the way?” He asked, trying to sound nonchalant.

I turned to him with a smirk. When I didn’t reply, he glanced at me.

“Why are you looking at me that way?” He nervously laughed.

I strode to him, and he looked anywhere but at me. Josh was such a cute guy. Too cute, in my opinion.

“Remember when you said you wanted to go out drinking with us?” I said, my eyebrow raised.

“Go on.” Now he looked interested.

“Well, I could arrange something tonight. Me, Emery, and my two other friends.”

“Uhm, wouldn’t it be awkward, though?” He rubbed the back of his neck.

I frowned. “Of course not! My friends are not like that.” I grinned. “Or is it because of Emery?”

“Definitely not! Okay, I’ll come then.” Josh proclaimed.

I nudged him in his shoulder. “That’s what I like to hear.”

Together we laughed, and I took another customer’s order. During my break, I texted girls in our group chat.

Me: Us. 9 pm. Blue Star.

Freya: YESSSSS

Jade: Again? Why?

Emery: I don’t see a reason why not. Don’t be boring, Jade. You can drink an orange juice.

Me: Bring Kaiden with you. Josh will come as well.

Freya: Josh? The guy you’re working with?

Me: Yup, that’s him. I want to introduce him to you. Emery met him, though.

Jade: You did??

Emery: Once. He seems like a good guy.

Freya: BRING HIM! IS HE HOT? WHAT DOES HE LOOK LIKE?

I laughed, shaking my head.

Me: You will see, Freya.

Freya: CAN’T WAIT!!!!

Emery: Jade, will you bring Kaiden?

Jade: I will ask if he wants to come.

Freya: He will drop to his knees if you ask him, silly. Emery, bring your hot brother as well.

My heart stopped beating for a second.

Emery: Rather not. He would only ruin our night, and I have no idea where he is.

I left the chat, taking a deep breath. Was I seriously worried about him? I mean, he didn’t seem stable. I even saw the pills in his car. Emery doesn’t seem to know anything about it. If only I had a chance to see the name of the pills. But why do I care? He’s a grown-ass man. He can take care of himself. He doesn’t need my help.

• • •

When the evening came, I dressed in a nice, sleek black miniskirt with a wine-red sleeveless top. I threw over my shoulders a leather jacket and was ready to go. With Emery, we exited the building, and Jade, Kaiden, and Freya were already waiting for us. Josh was nowhere in sight. I checked my message notification in case he texted me, he would be late or wouldn’t come, but the notification box was empty.

Just as I was about to call him, a car pulled up in front of us. It was Josh. He waved at us, and we all squeezed into his car. During the ride, I introduced him to the girls, and they were all surprised at how cool Josh is. He was the exact opposite of Ricky. In every single way.

Gosh, why am I thinking about him again?

When we arrived at the Blue Star bar, millions of people were coming in and out of it. It was Saturday, so of course it was packed. We sat down at the very back. Josh sat to my right, Emery to my left.

We ordered drinks and cocktails and started to chat. Freya was a bit too interested in Josh, which was bad, don’t get me wrong, but Josh had his eyes set on the girl beside me. And Freya only wanted to screw him and then toss him away like trash.

Josh didn’t like hookups. He was a relationship guy, and I highly appreciated that about his character.

Even Jade was interested in what Josh was saying, which took me by surprise. Kaiden didn’t seem to like it, judging by the look on his face. He even placed his arm behind Jade, showing that she’s his. I found it cute. Kaiden wasn’t really the type of guy who would fight. He would merely argue.

Violence is overrated.

After a couple of shots, I was drunk enough to be dragged onto the dance floor by Emery and Freya. Jade wasn’t a big dancer, and we didn’t want to pressure her. Also, we wanted to leave her alone with Kaiden, since Josh tagged along.

Our favorite songs were playing, and I enjoyed every second of it. My vision was a little bit blurry, but I felt as if I was high, and I liked that feeling. The feeling of the vibrating base beneath my feet. The way my body moved to the rhythm of it.

Josh seemed to get closer to Emery, placing his hands on her waist. I smirked. Josh was made for Emery. He was the right choice. I was tired of seeing Emery chase the popular guys just because they were famous at school. They were complete trash. And she deserved the world, the same as Jade and Freya.

As I waltzed through the crowds of people to leave Emery and Josh alone, my heart stopped when I saw the scene in front of me

Three very beautiful girls dressed in very revealing clothes were all over no one else but Ricky. He was beyond wasted, swaying from side to side as all the girls wanted him for themselves. He was barely sitting straight, but he kept drinking the dark liquid, which I assume was brandy or whiskey.

The girls were touching his chest and arms and playing with his hair. For some reason, that bothered me the most.

No, I wasn’t only bothered; I was enraged. First, he stalks me and doesn’t leave me alone, and then he disappears and exchanges me for not only one but three girls.

Suddenly, I felt like a piece of trash. Like, I didn’t matter at all.

My fingers curled into fists, and at that exact moment, his eyes met mine. He surely must’ve seen how angry I was. I didn’t try to hide it.

As if he sobered, he pushed the girls away from him, basically shoving them with strong force, almost making them drop to the floor. But it was too late. I saw everything.

I shook my head and smiled. I let the fury escape my body, since it was not worthy to lose my nerves over such a motherfucker. I turned on my heel back to where I came from and grabbed the first guy I laid my hands on.

He immediately smirked and wrapped his arms around me. I turned to be sure Ricky saw what I was about to do. He was already marching toward me, eyebrows furrowed.

I didn’t waste any seconds and pressed my lips against the guy’s. His lips were rough and needy. His hand slid to my ass, and he squeezed it in his firm hold. My heart was hammering against my chest, and I thought I was about to faint.

It hadn’t even lasted ten seconds before the guy was knocked to the ground. Ricky began beating him, his fists smashing the guy across his face like a menace.

The guy tried to shield his face, but Ricky was merciless, his knuckles slamming into flesh with sickening thuds. Blood sprayed from the man’s split lip, spattering onto the dance floor. He groaned, his legs kicking out weakly, but Ricky pinned him down with a knee to his chest, his weight making it impossible for the guy to escape.

I was frozen. Unable to move. It was like my childhood all over again. How my father used to beat me until there was nothing left of me but dark bruises. Until I couldn’t walk or speak. It all repeated in my head, and it was hard for me to breathe.

“You motherfucker! Touch again what’s mine, and you will bleed to death, and everyone will watch how you slowly die.” Ricky snarled. “I will shove my fists into your face until your jaw dislocates, and you won’t be able to eat and speak.”

“What the fuck is going on?” Emery’s voice alarmed me. I turned to her, and I wanted to shout, “ Please get me away from here ,“ but my tongue turned to stone.

She rushed to me and then looked down at Ricky, who was still beating the guy in the face. Her eyes grew wide, and she started to shout at him to stop, that he would kill him. Some other people tried to stop him, but he was unmovable.

Josh then came and wrapped his arms around me. He knew what kind of things I went through during my childhood, and so did the girls.

“Let’s get you out of here.” He whispered, and I nodded.

But before I could move, Ricky was back on his feet and grabbed me by the wrist. People quickly helped the guy to escape, and I was glad he wasn’t dead.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” Emery exclaimed, staring at Ricky.

He didn’t even look her way. His eyes pierced me.

I tugged my arm to set my wrist free, but he wouldn’t even budge. His grip was firm, unyielding.

But then Josh slapped his hand, and another panic set in. “What is your business with Aurellia?” Josh asked.

Ricky glared at him, and I was sure he’d fight Josh. That he would hurt him, and I would never forgive myself for that.

“If you want to end up like that fucker whose blood is on my knuckles, I’d suggest removing your hands from her.” Ricky smiled in an eerie way.

I could feel Emery’s eyes on me. She was so confused, and I was already feeling bad. I hid this from her. And best friends don’t hide things from each other.

“Josh, take me out of here.” I suddenly spoke, my voice trembling.

Emery moved in front of us to stop Ricky from following us, and Josh helped me walk outside the bar.

Soon after, Jade came with Kaiden. They asked Josh a bunch of questions, but all I could focus on was my fast pulse and the bile that rose to my throat.

⸻⸻

chapter 16︱fear

Emery, in fact, didn’t let go of what happened.

The next morning, she dragged me for a walk since we had no class until noon. There was this small park near our dorm we all liked to go to. I always cleared my head when I walked there, but now it doesn’t seem possible, not after what happened.

Yesterday evening, Emery tried to talk to Ricky. She demanded an answer for his absurd behavior, but he didn’t give her any. He simply grabbed his things and left the bar. The police thankfully weren’t called on Ricky. People didn’t want to mess with him.

Since he gave her no answer whatsoever, it was time to question me. If she didn’t see how he grabbed me by the wrist, she would never suspect anything, but Ricky was too possessive over me. That stupid dickhead.

We walked for about half an hour. I told Emery I had to sort my thoughts first, but the reality was, I was afraid of losing her. I knew once I’d reveal what happened between me and Ricky, our friendship would change as well.

But it was time to tell the truth. I was sick of lying to her and the girls.

“I don’t know how to tell you this.” I suddenly spoke.

“Aury, you’re scaring me. Just tell me what happened between you and Ricky.”

I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. “It all began when he took me into his apartment after the party,” I confessed.

“I knew something had happened!” She exclaimed. “You were acting so weird.”

I nodded. “I couldn’t bring myself to tell you what exactly happened. I was ashamed and guilty of being a bad fucking friend.”

She touched my shoulder and gently rubbed it. “Spill it out. I won’t be mad, I promise.”

I let out a long exhale and swallowed hard. “Something happened between your brother and me. Something intimate.” I whispered.

Emery’s hand turned stoic, and her eyes grew wide.

“Intimate? As sex, you mean?” Her eyebrow rose.

“Well, we didn’t sleep together, but…” I didn’t finish the sentence. She knew what I meant.

She sighed and rubbed her temples. “I suspected he did fuck up, but this? I would understand if it were Freya, but you?”

“Believe me, I had no desire. I mean, at first I didn’t want anything to do with him, but he wouldn’t stop following me and texting me. I couldn’t avoid him. He was everywhere.” I said.

Emery looked at me, her eyes narrow. “Do you like my brother?” She asked.

“I-I don’t know what I feel towards him. It’s complicated.” I murmured and crossed my arms.

A couple of seconds of silence passed before Emery spoke to me again.

“Even if you wanted to marry that fool, I wouldn’t be mad at you. I’d only tell you there are better options out there, but I’ll respect your choice. So don’t ever hide a thing from me, or I’ll never see you again.” Emery frowned, and I laughed. I wrapped my hands around her and squeezed her tight.

I could breathe again. I wouldn’t lose my best friend. Emery didn’t want to murder me.

It all felt like a dream.

“However,” I said, and pulled away to look at her. “I don’t wish to see him now. Because of what he did in the club.”

“I understand. He doesn’t know what you went through, but I won’t be able to stop him from finding you.” Emery said.

I smiled, and we finished our walk. I told Emery I’d take care of it myself. Ricky is my problem, not hers. He’s the one who wants me, no matter how much I resent him. Sometimes I want to kick him in the stomach, and other times I want his arms around my body.

He’s a dangerous man; I know that now. Unfortunately, I realized that way too late.

When we returned to the dorm and turned on a random movie, I began to ask questions I’ve been wondering about.

“Why was Ricky abroad?”

Emery glanced at me and then looked back at the TV.

“He said he was tired of this place. Wanted new experiences. That’s what he said to me, but I didn’t believe him.”

“Why?”

“I know him like I know myself. Ricky never liked new places or people. Of course, he changed over the years and was more extroverted, but he never wanted to leave our hometown. So it was weird when he one day left and didn’t tell anyone but me about his plans. That’s why my mother was so mad when she saw him.” Emery explained.

It all seemed weird to me. Why would he suddenly leave and come back without an explanation? I’m sure Caroline asked him about his whereabouts, but he would never confess where he was and what he was doing there.

I believe there’s more to it than just being tired of this town. Ricky is hiding something, and he wants no one to find out about it.

“Did you ask him where exactly he was?” I wondered.

She shook her head. “He doesn’t let me in anymore. He’s secretive. Even with you.”

Blood rushed to my cheeks.

“It was actually me who told him to keep us a secret. I was so scared of your reaction.” I confessed.

Emery rolled her eyes. “You’re so silly, do you know that?” She then let out a long exhale and got suddenly serious. “I still don’t understand why you . Don’t get me wrong, it’s not because I think you’re ugly, but I thought his type was more someone like Freya.”

I laughed. She was right. I didn’t understand it myself. What has Ricky seen in me that decided I was worthy of his stalking?

“I have no clue, Emery. I don’t even know him that well. He never lets me in. Not even a little bit.”

When we went to sleep, my phone was flooded with messages from none other than my stalker. Since what happened at the club, he has been nonstop calling and texting me. I never replied because I was angry at him for how he was acting. I was also terrified of him, wondering if he’d do the same to me. Beat me until my face was all bloody.

I was always afraid of men. I rarely trust one such as Josh, and even though Ricky is a psychopath, I never once felt he’d hurt me until the night at the club.

I grabbed my phone as I was getting annoyed at the constant vibrating of every new message. I turned the phone on silent, not wanting to read anything he wrote, but I still caught a glimpse of one of them.

The psycho: You have until the morning to answer me, or I’m breaking into your room and taking you with me to a place where no one can find you, baby.

My hand began to tremble, and I had to stop the tremor with my other hand. A part of me knew he was capable of what he said in the message, but the other part of me was sure he’d never get inside since he doesn’t know the door code.

I immediately jumped out of my bed and locked the window. I stared through it outside, hoping I wouldn’t see Ricky hiding somewhere around. There was thankfully no one. I turned the blinds off and went back to bed, hoping that tomorrow nothing would happen and it would be an ordinary day.

As soon as I closed my eyes, the images of Ricky’s handsome face filled my mind. His long hair falling over his eyes, and those piercing gray eyes. The dimples on his cheeks and his soft lips.

The worst part? A tiny, broken part of me still wanted to see him. Still wanted to believe that underneath the monster, there was something soft-something real. But monsters don’t change. They just smile while they rip you open.

I hated myself for liking him. It was wrong, and he wasn’t in his right mind, but no matter how hard I tried to suppress the thoughts of him, I still couldn’t get rid of his smile that was carved into my memory.

That beautiful but wicked smile of a monster .

⸻⸻

Heyy, I hope you’re liking the story so far.

Don’t forget to vote!

chapter 17︱abducted

I wasn’t prepared to find myself sitting in the backseat of a car when I opened my eyes. It wasn’t an ordinary car. I knew well who it belonged to.

My heart hammered against my ribs as I realized that the worst had happened. Ricky had kidnapped me because I didn’t text him back.

I moved my hands, only to realize they were bound together with rope. My head snapped to the driver’s seat, and Ricky held the wheel with one hand while the other rested on the open window.

At that exact moment, he caught my gaze in the rearview mirror.

“Rise and shine, love.” He winked at me.

He kidnapped me, tied my hands, and simply winked at me? As if it isn’t a crime?

“I’m sure you’re starving, but don’t worry, sweetheart. We will be there soon , “ Ricky said, looking back at the road.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and blinked. “There? Where exactly is that?”

He laughed, flashing his teeth as his dimples showed. Oh, fuck me.

“I’d tell you, but you’re a dangerous woman. I’ll keep it a secret.”

I took a deep breath and looked out of the window. All I could see were the desert-empty roads and no houses. That wasn’t a good sign, was it?

The longer he drove, and I saw perhaps fifteen people and ten cars, I began to sweat. Where was the psycho taking me? And why is it in some lonely place?

Ricky suddenly stopped the car and got out to blindfold me. Smart choice.

He continued driving after that, and I had truly nothing else to say. But the drive ended the moment we reached an abandoned-looking house. I caught a glimpse of it because the blindfold wasn’t too tight around my head. He lifted me into his arms and then got inside, carrying me up lots of stairs.

I swear he was standing in one place for several seconds and stared at me before he placed me down on what seemed to be a bed. Not the most comfortable one, but it was much better than the beds in the dorms.

While I was lying in bed, I scolded myself for even talking to this weirdo. I didn’t want to be near him because of what he did, but he didn’t care about what I wanted. He was simply a selfish human being.

In the next moment, I felt his body hover over mine.

“R-Ricky?”

He seized my tied hands and moved them above my head. His knee was between my legs, and I was sure it wasn’t by accident. His hot breath lingered on my skin, and I was getting hot. Mind you, I was dressed in my pajamas, which were not very cute.

“Why haven’t you replied to any of my messages or calls?” He asked, his voice gravelly.

“You know, you didn’t have to kidnap me to ask me that. And would you be so kind as to stop crushing my wrists? It really hurts.” My voice was slightly trembling.

He scoffed and pushed the blindfold down.

“You missed that chance because you chose to ignore me all day yesterday, darling.” He smirked. “Now, I’m questioning you in an easier way.”

I swallowed hard. It wasn’t the time to appear weak. I had to look strong and confident. “Well, let me end it right now. I didn’t answer because I didn’t want to talk to you or see you. In fact, I’d rather walk miles with bare feet to my dorm than be in your presence for much longer than I am now.” I snarled.

He suddenly raised his hand, and I winced, squeezing my eyes. I waited for the pain to follow. To feel his firm knuckles against my cheek, but nothing happened. I exhaled.

“This is the second time you thought I’d hit you.” He murmured, and I opened my eyes. “Why would you think I’d do that?”

My eyes grew wide. Was he stupid? Doesn’t he remember what he did at the club?

“You can’t be serious.” I snapped.

“Oh, I am. Very much.” His eyes narrowed.

I rolled my eyes and roamed my gaze through my surroundings. The house looked very old, probably not occupied for years, but the bed wasn’t covered with dust. He must’ve prepared this place for us.

“You’re a violent person. You beat people left and right, and you scare me.” I burst out. “And just now you kidnapped me into the middle of nowhere, and I want to go back. I don’t want to play these games with you.”

He suddenly let go of my hands and moved to the edge of the bed. I sat up and shifted close to the headboard. I folded my arms, and the silence only added to my anxiety.

“Did someone hurt you?” Ricky softly asked, and our eyes met.

My heartbeat quickened. “Yes,” I immediately replied. In some way, it was freeing to tell him my secret.

His eyes widened as he leaned forward. “Who was it?”

My lips began to tremble. I parted them slightly and gulped. “M-My father.”

Ricky stared at me for a few moments, his eyes piercing into mine as if he wanted to see my scars. My dark past, which I pretend never happened, since I started going to college.

I don’t want to see him in my head anymore. I don’t want the wounds to open again.

I cleared my throat and blinked to erase the memories that I wanted to escape from. “Now that I answered your questions, it’s time for my turn.”

Ricky didn’t say anything. He was still looking at me with the same dull facial expression.

“Where exactly did you go abroad, and why did you come back?” I asked, and it seemed to break him out of the staring trance.

“Hmm?” I cocked my head.

He looked at the floor, his jaw set tight. “I needed to see someone.” He said in a whisper.

“But that doesn’t answer my question?” I frowned.

He chuckled, and the bed swallowed his back. “We don’t always get what we want, darling. Get used to it because with me, I’m the one setting the rules.”

My mouth twitched. “Oh, does the same treatment apply to the girls who were all over you at the club? Especially the one who was playing with your hair?”

Ricky’s eyes snapped to me, his brow raised. “Do I smell jealousy?” He asked, a faint smile playing on his lips, his hair falling over his eyes.

“Hell. No!” I exclaimed and folded my arms. “Why would I be jealous of them? I couldn’t care less about who you’re fucking.”

Ricky suddenly sprang up and closed all the space between us, tilting my chin. “I’ve got to stop you there, miss. I’m not fucking them, and I never will. The only one who will feel my cock deep inside is you.” He bit his lower lip, and my pulse quickened.

I hated how he made me feel. I hated how alive I felt when I was with him, like every moment felt worth remembering, because I never knew what his next move or words would be. Will he take me back to the dorm soon, or keep me locked in here for days? Nobody could know.

He suddenly inhaled sharply and roamed his long fingers through his hair. “Are you hungry?” He asked and got up from the bed, pacing around the room. “I’ll go buy something and be back soon.”

“Wait!” I exclaimed, and he looked at me. “Will you keep me tied like this?”

He grinned, mischief written in his gray eyes. “No one knows about this place. You will be safe here, darling-well, except from me.”

Before I could utter a word, he was out the door, and I could hear the car take off. I writhed and tugged on the rope, but the knot he had made was tied in a complicated way. I couldn’t make it loose, and it was making me insane.

There was no phone or TV, just lots of old books and plants. A brown leather couch was placed in the corner of the room with blankets stacked on top of it. The leather was cracked and scratched from all the sitting. The plants were dry, life missing from them. This whole place felt lifeless.

I let out a strangled noise and slammed my back on the bed. My heart was hammering against my ribs, and the blood in my veins was boiling. I was caged in his grasp, and there was no possible exit.

After fifteen minutes, the front door burst open. I instantly shut my eyes to pretend to fall asleep. However, my rapidly falling chest was difficult to hide, and it was difficult to slow my heartbeat to a normal rate.

Ricky placed something on the couch before stalking toward me. Probably the food. He sat down on the bed, and his warm hand locked my wrist. I suppressed any reaction, but my breath quickened.

He untied my hands and lifted my wrist. His soft lips pressed against my skin, and all I could think about was that I had a way out.

His kiss on my skin felt like a hot brand. Not removable. Never forgettable.

“If you think, even for a second, there’s a chance you will leave this house, you should forget about it,” Ricky whispered and shifted to lie beside me, his chin resting on top of my head. “Or I’ll tie us to this bed and set this place up in flames.”

Fuck. My. Life.

⸻⸻

chapter 18︱insane

A couple of hours must’ve passed because when I opened my eyes, it was already evening. An empty, cold space told me Ricky was no longer lying beside me. I turned and was correct. He was nowhere to be found.

I sat up, my wrists no longer tied. I was free, but Ricky’s warning echoed through my mind. “If you think, even for a second, there’s a chance you will leave this house, you should forget about it, or I’ll tie us to this bed and set this place up in flames.”

Even though he wasn’t near me, I could sense his presence. Heavy and dominating. He was like a plague, spreading through my body.

I got off the bed and tiptoed into the bathroom. The door was slightly ajar. The room was dimly lit by a single light bulb. I pressed my palm on the door and gave it a push. The door creaked eerily, and Ricky stood in front of a sink, holding hair clippers.

He shaved all of his hair.

“What the hell did you do?” I said in disbelief, my eyes moving to the sink where there was a pile of his hair scattered on display.

Ricky nonchalantly finished the last spot on his head and placed the hair clippers on top of the sink. Then he ran his fingers through the stabby-poking hair.

Suddenly, he turned to me, shoving his hands into his pockets. “You hated my hair being touched by someone other than you, so I shaved it off. To start new.” He said, his voice gravelly.

“You’re insane,” I muttered.

He drew closer, towering over me. “Insane about you .”

Without me noticing, he somehow closed the door, and when I walked backward, I had nowhere to go. My back was pressed against the old wooden door, his right hand was positioned above my head, and his left was very close to my hip.

Ricky wore a plain black short-sleeved shirt, and it still set my insides on fire. His biceps muscles contracted, and my eyes strayed to their barely noticeable movement.

“Like what you see?” He broke the silence.

My eyes immediately retreated to his face. “Of course. You have great muscles.” I raised my eyebrows.

He leaned closer to my face, and the back of my head bumped into the door with a loud thud . His nose was mere inches from mine.

With his hair shaved, he looked a lot older. His expression was more stern. But now I could see his eyes without them being hidden, and God, they were so breathtakingly gorgeous.

“Touch my head.” He ordered, maintaining eye contact.

I did as he told me and stroked the small hair.

“You’re the first and the last person to touch them. They belong to you.” He said, and his gaze lowered to my lips.

I took a deep, ragged breath and let my hand fall to his shoulder. He looked at the placement and slowly moved his eyes down and up my body.

I shuddered. Goosebumps forming on my arms.

A smirk played on his lips. “Are you cold?” He asked.

My brow raised. “N-No, I’m not.”

He huffed, staring at my chest. “Are your nipples so hard because of me?”

My eyes grew wide. Before I could hide my poking nipples that could be seen through the pajamas, Ricky’s fingers gently wrapped around my throat, and the other hand grazed my painfully hard nipple.

I unconsciously muffled a moan and immediately glued my lips together. But Ricky heard it. His hold on me tightened.

“I’ll fuck you into oblivion. Until you won’t be able to speak or walk. Your body responding to my touch only makes me want to shove you against this door, darling.”

“N-No? I don’t want that…” I stammered, almost breaking our intense eye contact.

“No?” His eyebrow rose. “I must’ve misheard you. That sounded like a yes to me.”

Ricky hauled me against the door by the back of my thighs. Breath whooshed out of my lungs, and I had no opportunity to bring it back as his lips found mine. It wasn’t a long kiss, just a small taste. He moved his face down my jaw and then throat, grazing his nose against my jawline.

He was like a madman.

I dug my nails into his nape, but he didn’t budge. He moaned, and the harder I pressed, the more desperate was the sound that escaped his mouth.

His teeth marked every clean spot on my throat, and he wasn’t being gentle. The more I resisted, the more he was turned on by it.

“I…never wish to see you again.” I breathed, and his gaze lifted to mine.

I saw a flicker of lust in them.

“You can pray to the gods, and even they won’t help you to get rid of me.” He chuckled and attacked my mouth.

This time, he was like a wild animal. Devouring my lips as if I were his feast. His head moved to the other side, kissing my lower lip for a couple of seconds before moving to the upper one.

God, he was so desperate. I couldn’t take a breath. He wouldn’t let me. His lips couldn’t be torn from mine.

In the end, they were so swollen, and I was getting exhausted; I was sure he’d let me go. But when I started to whine in pain, his dick hardened between my legs. He was stone-hard, rubbing himself against me without my permission.

He never once asked for it in the first place, so why expect it now?

My back was constantly being slammed against the door as he was getting aroused for me. His tongue invaded my mouth, twisting inside, fighting for dominance. I was too tired to fight. I let him win.

But for him, defeat meant boredom. It was no longer exciting when I wasn’t fighting back or being scared. Perhaps that was the key to my freedom. Make myself no longer interesting.

Ricky’s tongue retreated from my mouth, and instead of kissing me, he bit the crook of my shoulder, grinding his swollen dick against me in a frantic motion. Even I couldn’t help myself. I was wet. Drenched, aching for him to be inside me.

“Oh yes,” I mumbled, my pussy throbbing with a pulsing need.

Ricky slid my bottoms down and freed his cock. My hands locked around his head, my fingers pressing harshly into his scalp.

He teased my entrance with his tip, trembling and moaning in his deep voice.

Wasn’t he the most delicious sin? A sin I could never get rid of.

“Say my name while I fuck you, Aurellia.” He whispered, and my eyes rolled back. “My n-name…” He sank into me, and my walls immediately clenched around him. For some moments, he didn’t move, just stood still, breathing rapidly.

And then he began to slowly thrust. My heels bored into his back, and my head swung back. Ricky held me tight by my thighs, each thrust more and more brutal. The pain mixed with pleasure, and I cherished every second of it.

But I grew desperate soon enough. His slow pace was torment.

“R-Ricky…” I exclaimed, and he instantly hardened inside me.

“Don’t stop.” He groaned, my back slamming against the door.

My eyes shut, and I was only focused on him. On his body against mine, where we were connected.

“Ricky,” I said his name again, but this time clearly without stuttering.

His pace became faster, and each thrust against me created butterflies in my belly. What I felt was heaven.

“Oh God,” I gasped, my body responding to his every move. His touch was like electricity, igniting something deep within me that I had never felt in my life.

He lifted my shirt and bit my nipple. Nibbling and licking it afterward. His moves were so controlled as if he couldn’t leave a single place untouched.

“Mine, mine, mine, mine, mine…” He repeated gravelly while thrusting into me. He didn’t hold back anymore. It was impossible.

Cries, my cries, echoed in the small space. My pain and pleasure brought him closer to ecstasy.

He cupped my ass and bored his fingers into my skin. Then, like in a frantic motion, with his ragged breath, he, with a harsh thrust, came inside me.

His skin was so hot, I thought I was in flames. No water could cease the fire that sparked between us.

I came in shuddering breaths, moaning loudly without shame, without a care that he could hear me. He probably felt good about it. About making me come.

We were still glued to each other, panting. I held him tight, my face leaning against his.

When a couple of minutes passed, he pulled out of me and carried me into the shower. I let him take care of me and my body.

Ricky rubbed the lotion that smelled of him all over my skin. But of course, his main spot was my chest. Once we were clean, he wrapped a towel around me and carried me to the bed. In the meantime, we didn’t utter a word.

As he was about to leave the room, I seized his hand. He looked down at me, but this time more gently.

“I’m not on the pill. Can you get me a Plan B?” I said.

He smirked. “Are you afraid of having a crazy child like me?”

I sighed and let go of his hand. “Ricky, I want to finish college without a baby crying day and night during my studies.”

He looked away in a thoughtful way. “We will leave in a couple of hours. I’ll buy it then.”

I grabbed his hand again. “What will we do by then?” I asked.

He chuckled and roamed his hand through his buzz cut.

“I’ll be eating you, of course.” He turned toward me, his face serious.

I drew back. “How about we get to know each other more? Hm?”

His eyes narrowed. “I know everything about you, darling. I need to explore you now.”

“But, I’m sore,” I whispered. “I can’t…”

Ricky suddenly sat down on the edge of the bed and opened my towel. My nipples were hard again. Goosebumps all over me. He stared at my body as if I were his trophy.

“I’ll help with the pain then.” He grinned and spread my legs. He buried his face between them and began to lick me in a very slow motion.

With each lick of his warm tongue, my pussy felt better. I let him help me. To heal me. But I knew that our relationship was a grave mistake, and I’d soon pay the price.

⸻⸻

chapter 19︱truth

Ricky gave me his clothes, as I only had my pajamas. When we left the house, we stopped by a store to buy water and Plan B. Ricky paid for it without a question. After all, he came inside me without asking for permission.

I returned to the car first, hugging myself and smelling his oversized hoodie. It was as if he were hugging me himself.

The stars were already sparkling in the sky, and a couple of street lamps revealed what was behind the darkness.

Ricky returned to the car, handing me more than just water and Plan B. The material was soft and fluffy.

He turned on the light, and a keychain with a teddy bear was in my hand.

“A gift?” I said.

He smiled and pulled his hood back up. “Because you were behaving like a good girl. That’s unusual coming from you.”

He started the engine and reversed out of the parking lot.

“Maybe because I’m tired of your games? Hasn’t that thought crossed your mind?” I rolled my eyes and looked out of the window.

He chuckled and placed his hand on my thigh. “Or maybe it’s because you like me, and you enjoyed your time with me today.”

I scoffed, slightly shaking my head. “You have such a big ego, yet you still need feeding.”

Ricky laughed wholeheartedly and squeezed my thigh. “Your humor is better than mine, darling. I like you even more for that.”

The rest of the ride was filled with music. My favorite band was blasting, and a small smile played on my lips.

When we arrived at my dorm, I clutched the keychain in my hand. How was I going to explain my disappearance? What kind of excuse should I use?

“Hey,” Ricky said, and I turned to him. “I’ll call you in an hour, and if you don’t answer, I’ll kidnap you for good.”

I narrowed my eyes. “One day you’ll get tired of me, and all of this will be pointless.”

His eyebrows raised. “And that’s where you’re wrong again. You’re stuck with me for life, Aurellia. You can cry all you want, but you’ll never get rid of me.”

“You know that sounds creepy, right?”

“Then think of me as your guardian angel or whatever will help you sleep at night.” He grinned and quickly drew closer to me. Our mouths connected for a long second, and a shudder coursed through me.

He drew back, his gray eyes looking at me in a very unusual way . In a way, I couldn’t really believe it.

“I-I have to go.” I stammered.

He nodded, and I quickly exited the car. I hurried up the stairs, not looking behind me. The whole time I was holding the handrail; otherwise, I’d have fallen as my legs shook.

• • •

“Where the fuck were you?” Freya demanded.

“Uhm, it’s a very long story. But I’m okay.” I said, glancing at Emery, who stood leaning against the door, eating Nutella off a knife.

“Saying you’re okay doesn’t mean we’re satisfied with such an answer, Aury.” Jade chimed in.

I sighed and grabbed my phone, which Ricky gave me when we left the abandoned house. I still had to call him; otherwise, he’d really kidnap me for good.

“Whose clothes are those?” Freya was wondering, a smirk playing on her lips.

Fuck, I totally forgot about that.

As I was about to answer, Jade grabbed my hands, tugging me closer to her. “Spill the tea. Who’s the lucky guy to have you?”

I looked at Emery, hoping she would save me from this interrogation. But she just smiled at me. I guess I deserved it. Lying to my best friends is an awful crime.

“Believe me, it would be better if there were none. He isn’t good news.” I said and let out a deep exhale.

Jade frowned and took a step back from me. “Now I’m genuinely scared. Who exactly are we talking about?”

“I think I know who,” Freya murmured.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and took a deep breath. I sensed the sweat on my forehead. My heartbeat was ringing in my ears.

“It’s…” I began. “It’s Ricky.”

Freya froze, and Jade gasped.

“Ricky? Like Emery’s brother?” Jade exclaimed.

I nodded and strode to my room. I settled down on my bed, and they all collectively followed me.

It felt great to no longer hide him. He always took this as his advantage, but now he has nothing he could use against me.

“Girls, don’t be too harsh on her. It was he who persuaded her.” Emery finally spoke. “And I already know about it, and I’m okay with it.”

Jade sat down beside me, clutching my arm. “But he’s…well.” She glanced at Emery before finishing her thought. “He’s not normal.”

I laughed. “Yeah, tell me about it. But we are not together, no matter what he says.”

Freya’s eyebrows rose. “Why does it sound to me like he’s forcing you into this situationship?”

She wasn’t exactly wrong, but not exactly right. At the beginning, it was like that; however, now I’m not sure.

My feelings for him are simply too complicated.

“I don’t want to talk about him anymore. I’m sure he’ll soon get tired of me. He’s only doing this because I’m resisting him.” I said.

Emery looked at me, and I realized how awful it must’ve sounded. I was talking about her family, her brother.

“Ahh, I’m so sorry, Emery. I know I must sound very cruel right now.” I sighed.

She smiled and grabbed my hands. “We are best friends. So what if he’s my brother? That doesn’t mean he’s not an asshole. I should talk some sense into him.”

We all laughed together and hugged. A heavy rock fell from my heart to the ground, and I felt lighter. When the girls left for their rooms, I took a shower and dialed Ricky’s number. Right after the first beep, he picked up.

“What took you so long?” He asked.

“I told the girls about you officially. You’re exposed.” I grinned.

He hummed and sighed. “It seems my little sister is okay with it. I expected her at my doorstep with a gun.”

I rolled my eyes. “She’s not as mad as you. And she’s not exactly okay with it. She’s afraid you will hurt me.”

He became silent for a couple of seconds.

“Hurt you? I’m not a tyrant.”

“I didn’t mean physically…” I murmured.

He chuckled, his voice sending chills over my body.

“I won’t hurt you. You’re my precious possession.”

My mouth slightly opened. Why is he always saying such strange things?

“By the way, you will have to suffer for a couple of days of my absence because I’m leaving.” He announced, and something ached in my heart.

I sat up, clutching the phone in my hand. “W-What? Where are you going? Are you leaving for good?”

I swear I could imagine him smirking.

“No, princess. If it weren’t irreversible, I wouldn’t leave you alone, even for a day. I’ll be back on the day of the gala event.”

That’s in two weeks. Where is he going?

“Well, it’s not like I care. I’m going to bed now. I had a long day after you kidnapped me.” I said and cleared my throat.

“It would only count as a kidnapping if you were in my arms right now.”

My eyes widened, and blood rushed to my cheeks. I quickly hung up and tossed the phone beside me.

Why is my body betraying me? And why in the world am I sad he will be gone for a couple of days?

⸻⸻

chapter 20︱savior

A week had passed, and there was no trace of Ricky. He didn’t call me or text me. It was like he never existed and nothing happened between us.

The other day, I even considered reaching out to him first. I truly have lost my mind. Me? Texting Ricky first?

That’s when I realized I needed to socialize with my friends and distance myself from him. He’s been following me around for such a long time, and it suddenly felt weird not to have him around.

Like my back was no longer shielded.

I dressed in a denim mini skirt and a white top with a squared neckline. I let my long, wavy hair fall down my back and exited my room.

Finally, the three of us had time to hang out together without any unwanted presence. We met each other in the hall. Jade was dressed in all black, her sharp eyeliner always perfect. Freya’s curly hair was pulled up in a ponytail, and she wore white shorts with a blue tank top. Emery kept her blond hair down, wearing a white summer dress.

“Where exactly are we going?” Emery asked as we began to descend the stairs outside.

“It’s a surprise. We haven’t been there for ages,” I said, smirking.

We all got into my car, and I began to drive to our destination. The sea.

The last time we went there together, we were nineteen. It was time to change that. I prepared some food, hid it in the trunk, and packed champagne and cool drinks.

I needed a distraction and some well-spent time with my best friends, away from all the problems.

The girls were blasting music and singing to it, and my ears were slightly bleeding. Their voices weren’t a fair match to Britney Spears’s. But they looked happy, and that’s all that matters.

Once we reached the sea and they finally found out where we were, they began to scream.

“Oh God! Just don’t jump out of the car.” I joked.

“I can’t believe we didn’t come here sooner,” Freya exclaimed, staring out of the window.

“We didn’t because we forgot about it due to studying and having many boy problems.” Jade chimed in.

The three of us looked at her-me, through the rearview mirror-with a frown. We weren’t supposed to bring the topic of guys back. But was it inevitable?

“Anyways.” I cleared my throat. “I thought we needed a scenery change. Instead of clubbing, you know. I’ve been good without alcohol for some time.”

“I agree. We need cleansing.” Emery chuckled.

I parked the car in the parking lot and grabbed the food I prepared from the trunk. The girls took the glasses, and we strode to the shore of the sea.

A few people were there, taking a walk or having a sit-down like us. We settled down on a blanket I brought and began to eat and drink.

There was not a single cloud in the sky. The sun was burning my skin in a very gentle way. I took my sandals off and ran to the water. The feeling of the cold sea against my hot skin revived something inside of me.

“We should just jump right into it,” Freya said as she appeared next to me.

“You mean swimming? We didn’t bring any swimsuits,” Emery said, standing on my left side.

“If you think I’d ruin my makeup, you’re wrong,” Jade said and hugged me from behind.

I laughed, staring at the wild waves that were rocking back and forth, hitting the rocks, and washing everything away.

If only they could take away my sins.

“We should just stay here and enjoy the view,” I stated and smiled.

We returned to our blanket and talked about the gala event that was only a week away.

Emery said it was very important for her mother, and she hopes all of us would attend it. We didn’t know why she cared for our presence, but there was free food and drinks, and none of us could refuse that.

“Even my cousin will travel here because of it. He’s a big introvert, so I feel kind of bad for him. My mother will for sure make him greet everyone.” Emery said and took a bite of a strawberry cake.

I took a sip of the fruity lemonade. “Then we should take care of him. We won’t let him stay with Caroline.” I declared.

“Is he hot?” Freya wondered, drinking the champagne.

Emery rolled her eyes. “He’s not your type, and like I said, he’s an introvert. Very shy. I’m not even sure he had a girlfriend.”

Freya gasped. “Who would date him if he’s not experienced?”

“I think it’s cute. I’d be happy if I were his first everything.” Jade replied, staring at the ocean, wind blowing her hair.

Freya chuckled. “Yeah, maybe at first. But it must be awkward if neither one of you knows, what to do next.”

Emery cleared her throat. “I think you both have a point.”

I shook my head, smiling.

While they began to bicker about male incompetence, I slowly walked by the shore, the waves touching my bare feet. I went too far away from the girls; my head was clouded by him, about where he was and what he was doing.

I wanted to badly believe he wasn’t with another girl, but he was unpredictable. Who knows, perhaps he’d come back with someone prettier than me to the gala.

I wasn’t paying attention, and suddenly a jolt of pain coursed through the arch of my foot. I crumbled to my knees, wheezing in agony.

I looked at my foot, finding a big shard of glass embedded inside my flesh. Blood poured slowly out of the wound.

“Are you okay?”

I looked up to find a guy a bit older than me bending over me.

“I wasn’t paying attention. I guess now I won’t be able to walk.” I laughed nervously.

He gave me a reassuring smile and crouched down, analyzing my foot. “I can take you to the hospital. You’d better get it checked out.” He said.

I glanced over my shoulder, searching for the girls, but they were too far away to notice me.

“Could you help me get over to my friends? If it’s not too much of a request. I’ll repay you.” I said, looking at him. He had stubble and honey blond hair, sleeked back as it reached his shoulders.

“Of course. I want to help you. I’d never leave a lady in danger.” He chuckled and wrapped his hands around me. He was gentle and careful not to touch me inappropriately.

He carried me as if I were a feather. It reminded me of Ricky.

Oh God, why can’t he leave my mind for one second?

When the girls noticed me, they ran to me, all freaking out. I explained the situation, and they stared at the big glass shard in my foot.

“You’re so sweet for helping our friend,” Freya said, checking him up and down.

“It’s what a gentleman does.” He smirked.

Emery’s eyes narrowed, her thinking face on. “Aren’t you Mrs. Campbell’s son? Jax?” She asked.

His eyes slightly widened. “I am. How do you know me?”

She laughed. “Because our mothers are best friends. I’m Emery Mayer.”

The girls packed everything, and we headed towards his car. Jade said she’d call Kaiden to pick up my car, so she didn’t come with us to the hospital. I gave her my car keys, and I could see the nervous look on her face. I was kind of jealous of their relationship. They were so in love. So cute.

Whereas I was dancing with the devil himself.

Emery and Jax chatted the whole way to the hospital about their mothers and the gala event that he’d attend as well.

He seemed like a pretty cool guy. He did save me, so…

• • •

Once the shard was removed and the wound was covered, the doctor told me I could walk normally because the shard wasn’t too deep in my skin to cause complications.

He recommended not walking for the rest of the day, and I was happy to hear that. My foot needed rest.

Jax drove us back to the dorm, and I found out he was twenty-eight years old, working in his mother’s company.

“Will your friends come as well to the gala event?” He asked Emery, glancing at me.

“Yup, my mother invited them, or more like commanded them to come.” She laughed. “I hope we will meet there.”

He again looked at me, and I quickly looked out of the window.

“Actually, I was thinking of a way your friend could repay me for my kindness. It was, after all, her suggestion. I wasn’t going to ask anything in return.” He said.

I turned to him, seeing him grin. “And what should that be, Mr. Savior?” I wondered.

He stopped the car in front of the dorm, his blue eyes meeting mine. “Come to the gala with me. That will be enough for me, Miss.” He winked at me, and I blinked in surprise.

I should be glad he was only requesting that, but Ricky was supposed to come back that day, and if he saw me with Jax, he would murder him.

“I hope you’ll say yes. I’m not asking for much.” Jax’s brow raised.

I swallowed the knot in my throat. He was right, and Ricky could’ve lied to me. God knows when he’d return.

“Alright then. I’ll accompany you, Mr. Savior.”

⸻⸻

chapter 21︱gala

I stared at myself in the vanity mirror, thinking about how gorgeous I looked. My hair, styled in soft waves, swayed over my shoulder. And my smoky eye makeup and red lips had never looked better.

“You’re so beautiful. You picked the right dress,” Emery said, hugging me from behind. She wore a long gold dress.

“I think so as well. But you’re more beautiful.” I said and turned around. Emery styled her hair into a bun, and it showed off her sharp shoulders and jawline.

She laughed and picked a lip gloss from my vanity. “I’m going to borrow this one. I love the color.”

“Of course, you thief.” I chuckled. “I can’t wait to eat all the food.” I pointed out.

“Is that really the only reason you want to go? Because of the food?” She wondered, putting the lip gloss into her small purse.

I got up from the chair and snatched the black, glittery purse. “Hell yeah. I hope they serve chocolate cake. I’ve been craving it the whole morning.”

She bumped into my shoulder, shaking her head. “You’re impossible. Don’t forget about the alcohol. We should steal a bottle or two of the champagne.”

“Fuck, we should,” I whispered.

Jax offered the girls a ride as well, and I couldn’t be happier to not go with him alone. Not because I thought he was sketchy, but I just had no clue what I should talk about with him.

On the other hand, Emery was laughing way too hard when he told us a joke during our drive to the hospital.

They had a lot in common, and I honestly wouldn’t mind if she persuaded him.

We got into the car; I was last, and I swear I felt like somebody was watching me from behind the trees.

I focused my poor eyesight into the dark. I saw no one, but chills spread on my body.

Maybe it’s Ricky? But why wouldn’t he text me or call me?

I shook my head, taking a deep breath. I got inside the car, and Jax immediately smiled at me. He wore a black tuxedo, and he looked very handsome.

He told me I was the most stunning woman he had ever seen in his life. He also complimented the girls, and I was taken aback by his maturity.

When we arrived in front of the giant mansion, my jaw almost dropped to the floor. It looked so luxurious and elegant.

Jax handed his car keys to a valet attendant to park his expensive Lamborghini, and he offered his arm to me. I took it, and we began to ascend the grand concrete stairs.

We entered the gala hall, and the sight before me left me speechless. The entire room was bathed in golden light, sparkling chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings. The floor was polished marble, so smooth and shiny it looked like glass. Long, silk curtains framed the tall windows, swaying slightly with the breeze coming through.

I could see groups of people scattered around the room, dressed in their finest clothes, laughing and chatting softly. Waiters moved gracefully between them, carrying silver trays with appetizers and flutes of champagne.

“Wow,” I breathed, my eyes scanning everything around me. “This is…surreal.”

Jade stepped up beside me, her eyes wide with awe. “This place is stunning,” she whispered. “I feel like we’re in a movie.”

I laughed softly, feeling a sense of excitement bubbling up inside me. “I know, right? Let’s find the food first.”

As we walked deeper into the room, I noticed a table at the far side, overflowing with delicious-looking dishes-salads, meats, seafood, and, of course, an entire section dedicated to desserts. My stomach growled, and I couldn’t help but smile.

This was going to be a night to remember.

We made our way toward the dessert table, the scent of freshly baked pastries filling the air, and I couldn’t help but feel like a kid in a candy store. There were chocolate tarts, tiny fruit tarts, and a massive cake in the center that looked like it belonged in a fairy tale.

“Alright, no shame,” I said, eyeing the chocolate cake. “I’m going straight for that.”

Jax laughed beside me, shaking his head. “I can’t blame you. That looks amazing.”

We grabbed plates and loaded them up with desserts.

I took a bite of the cake, and my eyes closed in ecstasy. “This is everything,” I muttered.

Emery grinned. “I can see you’re in heaven. I will try to find my mother and tell her we arrived.”

“Alright,” I mumbled, my mouth full of cake.

Jax gestured to the empty table close to us, so we decided to sit down. There wasn’t any name tag.

Freya and Jade, however, strayed to some random men. I assume it was Freya’s idea, and Jade just had to accept it.

“You have something…here,” Jax said, pointing to my lips.

“Oh, right.” I quickly grabbed a napkin, gently brushing the chocolate from my lips.

He laughed, covering his mouth.

“I must look so silly to you right now. I’m embarrassed.” I said, and chuckled.

He rested his chin against his palm, his eyes looking softly at me. “Quite the opposite effect.”

I fluttered my eyelashes, my throat going dry. Am I impressing him? I didn’t mean to do that. Are men always so easily swayed?

I laughed nervously and looked down at my cake. How could this delicious stuff bring me into so much trouble?

“Why is that guy glaring at you?” Jax whispered.

I looked up. “Who exactly?”

And then I spotted him among the crowd of people. His shaved hair and his steel eyes. He was dressed in burgundy pants and a matching suit, with new silver piercings decorating his ear and a shining, expensive watch on his wrist.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and stood up.

“I-I have to find Freya and Jade. Stay here, and don’t go anywhere.” I said and rushed to the other side of the room to find my friends.

Suddenly, someone caught my arm, and I was glad to find out it was Emery. But she wasn’t alone.

“Remember how I told you about my cousin? Aury, this is Jace.” Emery said, and I looked at the shy boy with black glasses standing next to her.

He avoided my gaze but quickly smiled at me.

“We are backkkkk. And who is this?” Freya appeared out of thin air, poking Jace in the back.

He instantly took a step back from her, and when Freya saw his face, she froze.

Jace looked very similar to Emery. He had cold blond hair that reached his shoulders and hazel eyes like Emery’s.

Another thing they had in common? Their obsession with blond hair.

“This is my cousin, Jace. Be nice to him, and Freya, especially you, don’t try to seduce him.” Emery warned.

While Jade greeted him, Freya couldn’t stop staring at him. I’ve never seen her look at a man that way.

He merely glanced at her, but I noticed how his eyes lingered on her hips. Freya was an alluring woman.

No matter how shy a man can be, his eyes will always betray him.

Then, a slow ballad started to play by the live band, and Emery urged Jace to dance with her. He wasn’t very happy about that.

The three of us awkwardly swayed to the beat of the slow music, and goosebumps formed on my arms. I felt him. He was standing right behind me.

“We have to take a piss,” Freya announced as she looked over my shoulder and dragged Jade away, who was enjoying the music.

I drew a single breath, and his hands locked around me. My heart hammered against my chest, its beat in my throat.

Together, we slowly moved to the sound of the song, but I knew he was pissed. And I was so scared he’d hurt the innocent Jax.

Without a single word, he pressed me closer to his chest, and his nose nuzzled into the shell of my ear.

“Did you really think I wouldn’t show up?” Ricky’s voice was quiet, but the fury beneath it was unmistakable.

I took a slow breath, keeping my face neutral as I met his gaze. His steel-gray eyes burned into mine, dark and unreadable. Up close, I could see the tension in his jaw and the way his fingers curled into my skin like he was restraining himself from something worse.

“I didn’t know where you were,” I said. “You disappeared.”

His grip on my wrist tightened slightly. “And you decided to show up with that fucker?” His eyes flickered over my shoulder, where Jax was seated. “Do you want me to commit a murder and ruin my mother’s event? Is that why you did that?”

I jerked my wrist free. “You’re being ridiculous.”

Ricky let out a low, humorless laugh. “Am I?” He took a step closer, his scent-familiar, intoxicating-wrapping around me. “Because I guess you forgot how insane I can get when it comes to you.”

“Something happened to me, and Jax helped me get into the hospital. There’s nothing going on between us-”

He laughed and whispered into my ear, “Move your pretty ass after me. The Devil knows I can’t make a scene here.”

He whirled and, with thunderous steps, moved to an empty back room. I glanced at Jax, who seemed to be preoccupied with some gentleman.

At least he wouldn’t be following me.

As soon as I turned around the corner of the room, I was slammed against the wall. Ricky was furious, breathing heavily, his eyebrows knitted together.

“I don’t give a fuck about some Jax. You get close to him one more time, and I swear to the Devil, I’ll kill him right now. I left for two weeks, and men are all over you.” He snarled.

I huffed, trying not to look scared, but I almost shit myself.

“No men are all over me, Ricky. He’s a gentleman, and if you dare to hurt him, I’ll call the police. Your violent tendencies are concerning. Is that why you’re taking those pills I saw in your car? Something must be wrong with you.” I snapped.

Ricky suddenly looked as if I had shot him in his heart. His facial expression softened, and he drew away from me, taking many steps back.

I’ve never seen him look so hurt. I think I crossed the line. But I was so angry at him. He always thinks he can just fight everyone until they’re bleeding, and all problems will be solved.

“Ricky…I didn’t mean that.” I softly said, taking a step forward.

His fingers curled into fists, and for my own safety, I didn’t walk closer to him.

“Ricky, what are those pills really for? Are you ill? Why are you so…secretive?” I asked, keeping my voice steady.

He looked down, not blinking. “You’re right. Something is wrong with me. And you’re already looking down at me, as if I were a crazy person who needs meds to stay sane.” He seethed.

I drew a sharp breath, feeling the urge to run to him, to comfort him, to tell him I don’t think he’s a complete monster. He never hurt me physically. He never laid his hands on me, unlike my father.

“I’ve never said that. I don’t think that-”

“Stop the bullshit. You do, and we both know it. You always thought of me that way. But now you’re more sure than ever.” He said and met my gaze. “And while I’d protect you from every danger, every possible threat, you rush to the first rich man available.”

I frowned and dashed forward. “Oh, so now you’re making me look like a slut? Let’s not forget who had girls all over him, and I’m not your girlfriend or wife. I’m not your anything. You only wanted to fuck me.”

His eyes grew wide, and his jaw clenched tight. “I could’ve fucked you a long time ago. I could’ve had all the girls in the clubs and fucked them all one by one, but I never touched anyone else since I laid my eyes on you. I’ve never stalked and kidnapped a girl. I’ve never smiled and cared for anyone but you. If it were only about sex, do you think I’d spend so much time on you?”

My throat went dry, and my heartbeat echoed through my entire body. I was too hot and too mad.

Without another word, I stormed out of the room, outside where the cars were parked. Once my lungs were filled with the fresh air, I could breathe more easily.

I couldn’t leave because Emery’s mother would probably never speak to me again, but it looked impossible to return and face Ricky.

The indestructible Ricky was hurt by my words. They truly reached his heart, and I felt like the dirtiest trash.

I sighed and crouched down. I didn’t care that the dress would get filthy. I only wanted to rush out of here, to lock myself in my bedroom with music blasting, ignoring all the feelings built up inside of me. They were about to burst from my chest, tearing me apart.

“Got tired of the spoiled, fancy snakes?” A man’s voice said behind me.

My skin crawled, and the hair on my arms bristled.

No. It can’t be him.

He’s locked in jail. I’m safe. I’m safe. I’m safe.

This is just a bad dream.

Until it wasn’t.

⸻⸻

chapter 22︱past

My legs quivered as I stood up. I didn’t look behind me. I forced my feet to move in front of me, my heartbeat beating against my chest.

Step after step, it felt like I was walking on nails. I was so close to the grand staircase that I thought I had won.

But as soon as my feet touched the first step, I was yanked backwards by my hair. It was such a sudden move that I lost my balance and stumbled onto the concrete.

The man’s rough hands hoisted me up, and his strong fingers wrapped around my throat.

As soon as I met his brown eyes and dark hair, panic settled inside me.

He choked me, and air whooshed out of my lungs. It didn’t last long, though. Because then he shoved me to the ground, and I gasped in agony.

“While I was rotting in jail, you were dancing and eating off a golden plate, you fucking bitch. I’ll end you right now and for good.” My father’s gravelly voice echoed.

He bent over me and slapped me across my face. I let out a cry, unable to speak, unable to move, only to let the tears fall down my face.

He hit me again, again, and again. And I went back in time, when I thought I would never escape this heartless monster. When I thought my life was simply over .

“Have you lost your ability to speak?” He fisted my hair to make me look at him. “You slut. How dare you dress like this? Do you have no shame?”

It physically hurt to breathe. I’d rather suffocate than hear him degrade me any longer.

But before he could smack me again, and before more tears could escape my eyes, his body flew to the side as someone kicked him in his side.

It was all happening in slow motion. Ricky began to assault him, hitting him everywhere possible, but mainly between his legs.

Then the girls showed up and sprinted to me. They must’ve been looking for me.

My eyes, though, couldn’t tear away from Ricky. I just hoped my father wouldn’t hurt him and that Ricky wouldn’t let him get close to me again.

“Your life ends tonight, you fucking piece of shit. You touched, and hurt what’s mine.” He shouted many other filthy words at him.

His knuckles were covered in blood, and my body turned stoic. The girls screamed at him not to kill him, but I saw the look in his eyes.

He was ready to murder him.

Thankfully, no other guests came outside. The loud music was enough to cover what was happening here. Caroline wouldn’t survive this. And neither would Ricky and Emery, if she were to find them here.

I didn’t register immediately when a guy who was with Ricky at the club showed up. He grabbed my father under his neck.

I was trembling, my body bruised. I was so cold. I wanted to just go home.

Ricky suddenly appeared in front of me; he was the only one I could focus on, and he stared at my beaten body.

He tried to touch me, but I winced. I didn’t mean to do that. It was a reflex that was buried deep inside me that I thought would never appear again.

“No, let her be for tonight. Can’t you see how shaken she is? Why the fuck did he get out of jail?” Emery almost shouted, pacing back and forth.

“She will stay with me. I’ll make her safe,” Ricky said, glaring at his sister.

Freya and Jade were by my side, rubbing my shoulders to make me less cold. I, however, couldn’t speak. I was too shocked.

I didn’t manage to catch everything because of my state, but I caught a glimpse of my father being drugged with a needle and dragged into the car that Ricky’s friend had arrived in. I didn’t care what he would do with him. Even if he killed him.

I don’t think of him as my father. I thought of him as a nightmare.

Ricky crouched down and searched for my gaze. Once our eyes met, it was like I needed his warmth to envelop me.

He was protecting me. He saved me.

With my shaky hands, I reached toward him, and he immediately captured me in his arms, and I buried my face into his chest, sobbing very loudly.

“Take care of her well, brother.” Emery said.

“Don’t worry. With me, she will be safe.”

Ricky managed to hoist me onto his arm and carry me into his car. I kept my eyes closed and opened them once we were in his apartment.

He placed me on the bar stool and fetched his clothes. I must’ve looked like a mess. Bruises all over my face and body, my hair wild, but I couldn’t care less, even though he saw my weakest point.

I hit the rock bottom.

I let him change me into a large white T-shirt and gray sweatpants. Then he carried me again into the living room and carefully set me down on the couch.

He snatched a blanket and covered me with it. He rolled his sleeves up to his elbows, and I noticed his veiny hands.

They were no longer covered with blood.

Ricky sat down beside me and put his hand on my shoulder. My head fell into the crook of his neck, and he kissed my temple.

Then I started crying again. He caressed my arm, telling me to let it all out. And I did.

“I’ll never let anyone hurt you again. With me, no harm will come to you, baby.” He whispered against my skin, and my fingers clutched his shirt.

“D-Don’t let me go,” I murmured.

He sighed. “Never .”

Even though Ricky was the most dangerous man I’ve ever met, in his arms, I never felt safer.

He shifted slightly, and my eyes widened. Without thinking, I climbed onto his lap, straddling him and locking my arms around his neck.

He chuckled in his low voice. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m all yours, darling.”

“I’m sorry.” I burst out, and I sensed how he went still.

“Shhh, let’s not talk about it right now. I only want to feel you in my arms until we fall asleep.” He whispered and rubbed his fingers along my spine.

I drew my head back to look into his face, and I cupped his cheek in my palm. “Ricky.” I paused. “Thank you.” I choked out, and a tear spilled down my cheek.

He wiped the tear with his thumb and got up with me. We moved into his bedroom. Where it all began. Us.

We had a quick shower together, and when we returned, he dressed only in oversized shorts and nothing else.

He smirked when he caught me staring at him. I couldn’t help myself. He was too gorgeous.

Ricky sank under the comforter and tugged me to his chest. His hard muscles pressed into me.

“Move in with me.” His hot breath tickled my skin.

“You know how messy I am?” I faintly laughed.

He exhaled and inhaled my hair. “I’m already used to this. I won’t let you leave my apartment.”

A smile tugged on my lips. “The girls would be furious. And it’s too early for that.”

He groaned. “Time is precious, darling. I don’t want to waste a millisecond without you.”

Even though he was such a jerk, he always knew what to say to make my heart flutter.

I turned around to face him, and he examined my bruises again. He tried not to, but it was difficult. I chose, for my mental health, to ignore the mirror in the bathroom.

“Were you always like this?” I asked, my voice barely a whisper.

He frowned. “Like what?”

My eyes strayed away. “So possessive? And controlling?”

Normal people don’t go to such lengths because they want to have someone. It’s not normal behavior.

A part of me hates it because it’s bad, yet the tiny bit buried deep in me likes it.

“No, never. It all started with you when I saw you at the party. You’re the first woman who slept in my arms. The first woman, I’m not able to let go of.” He replied, and I looked at him.

A small smirk was playing on his lips. His constant teasing would never stop.

“Does it mean I’m also the last one?” I teased, not taking it seriously. We were too different. Our personalities were on opposite sides of the earth. Still, we had some sort of strange connection.

“Do you like to be the last?” He wondered, and his eyebrows raised, mischief glinting in his eyes. “Or you wouldn’t care if another woman slept with me?”

I froze, my body getting warmer.

Why was I suddenly breathing hard? I imagined him with another woman, and it was hard to breathe.

“Calm down, my sweet poison. I see you’re not taking that possibility too well. As expected.” He whispered, playing with my hair. “There’s no one else who I’d want in my arms more than you.”

Those words echoed in my ear, and I somehow fell asleep. I thought I’d have nightmares about my father, yet I didn’t. I didn’t even think of him. I erased him from my mind completely.

Ricky’s warmth made me feel safe and protected. However, I was still strongly curious about one thing.

Those pills that were in his car. He wouldn’t notice if one was missing, right?

I had to know what was going on with him. And since he didn’t want to tell me himself, I’d investigate by my own.

I’ve had enough of unstable men. I needed a strong pillar I could lean against, and Ricky had to be one in order to be with me.

⸻⸻

chapter 23︱awkward

I swear I’m not made for working.

But who the fuck even is?

You work your ass off and get paid a minimal wage, while other rich kids don’t have to move their fingers to buy a new Lamborghini or Gucci bag.

Anyway, the coffee shop was so packed, I thought I’d mix everyone’s order. Too many college students missed their lectures to sit in this small coffee shop and gossip. I thought we were over that in high school, but even I still do it. However, after this day, I’ll forever hate it.

My feet hurt, my neck pulsed with pain, and my back needed a long massage. Josh helped me as much as he could, but two people weren’t enough for such a crowd of people.

When I quickly ran off to the bathroom to take a piss after I held it for one hour, I messaged in our girl group chat.

Aury: SOS!!! I don’t think I’ll survive. Why is everyone from our school drinking coffee today at 8 am?

In a couple of seconds, the first reply came.

Emery: You should tell them to go to hell.

Aury: Thank you. You helped me a lot.

Freya: Bitch, you have no idea what happened? Classes were canceled because someone pulled out a knife in a lecture hall.

I froze, the memories of my father flashing in my mind.

Freya: Thank god some guy stopped him before he stabbed someone.

Only a week had passed since the incident at the gala event. I refused to talk about it with the girls, and they respected my choice.

Every time my thoughts wandered to my father, I couldn’t breathe, and I started to hyperventilate.

If I’d let my head think of him again, I might lose it completely.

“Aury!” Josh yelled, and I dashed back to work.

At least ten new customers entered our coffee shop. I began to take an order when I sensed an intense presence glaring at me, but I ignored it and smiled at the customer.

I typed the order into the computer, and someone shadowed the sun that sparked through the glass door.

I raised my gaze, finding that Ricky had moved in front of the customer and was smiling at me from ear to ear.

The guy behind him was clearly afraid of him, as he didn’t utter a word that he cut him off.

“What are you doing here?” I asked and sighed.

He pouted, his eyebrows drawn together.

I took a deep breath and put on a fake smile. “Take a seat. Your order will be ready.” I informed the customer, and he nodded and instantly took a seat in the back.

I dropped my smile and glared at my stalker. “I’m working. I don’t have time for your games right now.”

He smirked, those adorable dimples showing. A devil like him shouldn’t have a resemblance to cuteness.

“Darling, I came to help you with work. The sooner you get out of here, the sooner I can have you.” He whispered and winked at me.

I pushed him on his shoulder, feeling the heat in my cheeks.

“You’re the one who’s blocking the line, Ricky. So, you’re helping me so fucking much. Thank you and goodbye,” I laughed and pointed to the door.

He rolled his eyes and walked around the counter toward me. People stared, and I was so unbelievably embarrassed.

“I’m not asking for permission.” He said and turned to the new customer.

He began to take their order as if he had been doing this job for years. And maybe he had, because I don’t know everything about his past.

“Don’t just stand there. Go to the tables.” Ricky laughed, and blood rushed to my cheeks.

I stormed past him to the tables and took orders. Josh was staring at me, not understanding why was Emery’s brother behind the counter was.

I forgot to mention to him we were kind of together due to the chaos that was happening last week.

But I saw in his eyes how glad he was that someone was helping us. We never had so many people in this small coffee shop, so more staff weren’t needed.

I quickly pulled out my phone from the pocket.

Me: I’ll explain everything later.

Josh: You better do.

From time to time, I glanced at Ricky. Noticing that he never smiled at a customer or had small talk.

Yet, when he was with me, he was laughing and smiling all the time.

Suddenly, he caught me staring, and I spun, facing the wall. My heart was hammering against my ribs, and I believed it would jump out of my chest.

“Are you going to take my order or?” The girl asked, staring at me.

I closed my eyes and thought of every possible curse that I know.

Why am I so awkward?

Ricky and I were dating, but sometimes I forgot it. I mean, everyone would have a moment when they forget they’re dating a total psycho, right?

I took the girl’s order and headed to make the caramel latte. As soon as I was beside Ricky, his attention shifted to me.

I ignored his piercing eyes and focused on my work. But his presence was hard to overlook. He was that type of person who you just had to look at.

When I felt the warm hand glued to my ass, my eyes grew wide.

“With or without milk?” He asked the guy in front of us and squeezed my ass cheek.

Pleasure pulsed between my legs, and I had to bite my cheek to focus on something else.

Ricky then gently slapped my ass, and I winced.

I glared at him in disbelief. He grinned and leaned down to whisper in my ear, “You liked it, didn’t you? It makes you so wet that if I touched your pussy right now, it would be so soaked.” He chuckled.

I wanted to smack him again because he was right.

God, why did I fall in love with such a jerk?

“By the way, you’re so cute looking angry. I should do this frequently.” He added and turned to the computer.

Just wait. I’ll make you go insane.

• • •

Ricky stayed with me until my work ended. I purposely left my wallet in the back room when we left the building.

Why? Because that way I could steal one of his pills.

I wouldn’t get such an opportunity anytime soon. This was the one and only chance to discover what was going on with him.

When we got into his car, I opened my bag and searched for something inside.

“What are you looking for?” he asked.

I sighed. “I forgot my wallet. Thankfully, Josh is still inside.”

As I opened the door, Ricky grabbed me by the wrist.

“No, I’ll go. You stay here and don’t leave the car.” He ordered and quickly stormed inside.

I knew he wouldn’t let me go back and talk to Josh again. I’m sure he hated him from the way he was staring at him today.

I quickly opened the glove compartment and snatched the bottle. If it wasn’t almost full, I’d get exposed. I’m sure he’d know I took one.

I threw the pill into my bag just as Ricky walked through the door. I put the bottle back inside and quickly closed the glove compartment.

Ricky got inside the car and handed me my wallet.

“Thanks,” I murmured, my hands slightly trembling.

He drove off and turned on the heat. I guess he thought I was cold, but that was far from the truth.

He never wanted me to know what was going on with him. He wanted to keep this a secret.

How bad is it that he has to hide his health from me?

“What’s up with that look on your face?” He asked, and I was torn away from my thoughts.

“Look? How was I looking?” I chuckled and glanced at him.

Ricky gave me a quick smile and then swerved the wheel to the right. He hit the brake pedal, and I almost hit my head against the window.

“Are you insane! Why did you do that?” I shouted at him.

He unbuckled and leaned over from the driver’s side to mine. I shifted backward, my head pressed against the window.

He looked even crazier than before.

“I don’t like that look in your eyes. As if you were planning to leave me.” He said and stared into my eyes.

I frowned. “Why would I do that-”

“Yeah, exactly. Why would you even think of that when you have no choice in it? But I swear I saw something in your eyes that shouldn’t be there, Aurellia.” He said, his voice gravelly.

I placed my palm against his cheek. “And what did you see?”

He leaned against my touch, and his facial expression softened. “Something that would break me apart, and you would pay for it.” He kissed my palm, and with his other hand, he grabbed me by my neck.

I don’t remember the last time my heart pulsed so hard that it was hard to breathe.

“Don’t you want to kiss the monster, baby?” He smirked.

I swallowed hard, butterflies flying in my stomach. I pressed my lips against his and kissed him like he always does. Devouring him. Biting and pulling on his bottom lip.

He groaned and gripped my chin between his thumb and index finger, his fingertips pressing into my skin with just enough pressure that I could feel the sharpness of his fingers. I continued my assault on his mouth, my teeth biting down on his lip again before I pulled away, only inches between us.

He looked into my eyes, his gaze dark and intense. His breath came out ragged, a clear sign that he wasn’t immune to the effect I was having on him.

He traced his thumb along my lower lip. “Don’t look at me that way again.” He whispered.

I slightly nodded, and he tucked my hair behind my ear. The way he was looking at me reminded me that I really had no choice in this. He owned me in a literal way.

Even if I tried to leave, he’d catch me.

I was his forever, and it was frightening and beautiful at the same time.

⸻⸻

chapter 24︱anger

The walk to the pharmacy made my skin crawl.

It felt so wrong to invade someone’s privacy. To find out what’s wrong with them. But I needed a peaceful mind so that I knew nothing too serious was going on with Ricky.

My father’s abuse left indelible imprints on me. They can’t be healed or forgotten. I can’t pretend like none of it ever happened and not be afraid of what the next man in my life will do to me.

Ricky’s reassurance was like a feather. His words weighed nothing because he wasn’t able to be serious.

As I strode to the pharmacist, I took a deep breath. She glanced up from her computer and noticed me.

“Hello, how can I help you?” she asked, and I smiled nervously.

“I was wondering if you could test this pill,” I began. “And tell me what this medication is for. I accidentally found it on my floor, but I have no idea what it’s for.”

My hands trembled when I handed her the pill. She didn’t question anything, just took it and examined it with her gaze.

“You can take a seat while waiting for the results.” She smiled, and I took a seat on the small bench.

Suddenly, my phone vibrated with a new message.

The psycho: I’m waiting.

I frowned. I told him not to wait for me every single morning in front of the dorm building.

Aury: Keep waiting all you want.

The psycho: What does that mean???

Aury: That I’m not in the dorm. I told you not to do that. I don’t always have time in the morning to spend an hour with you in the car.

The psycho: Like I care what you like and don’t like. Where the fuck are you now?

God, help me.

Aury: At the pharmacy.

I tucked my phone back in my pocket, and the pharmacist returned. I hurried to her, eagerly waiting for her response.

“This type of pill should be taken regularly. I don’t know who it belongs to, but a person with borderline personality disorder shouldn’t stop taking their medication.” She explained.

“W-What exactly does that mean? That the person could be dangerous?” I asked, and a chill ran down my spine. I’ve never met a person with BPD, or learned about this mental condition.

The pharmacist shook her head firmly. “No, not necessarily. But if they suddenly stop taking their medication, they might experience intense mood swings, impulsivity, or even severe emotional distress.”

I swallowed hard, my fingers tightening around the edge of the counter. “So…it could make them unpredictable?”

She hesitated before nodding. “Yes, in a way. Without treatment, their emotions can spiral. It doesn’t mean they’re violent, but they might struggle to control their reactions.”

I let out a long breath and nodded.

“Thank you for the information,” I said, and carefully walked outside. I googled the symptoms, and everything matched Ricky’s behavior.

Now everything made sense. He stopped taking his medication, and that’s why he gets out of control.

“Hey.”

I looked up to find him leaning against his car, dressed fully in black with his hood pulled up, and a cap.

My chest tightened.

I hid my phone in my purse and strode toward him.

“How did you know my exact location?” I wondered.

He didn’t reply, just outstretched his arms, waiting for me to fill the empty space.

I froze in front of him, remembering what the pharmacist said. Why did he stop taking his medication?

Ricky groaned and snatched me. He pulled me against him and rested his chin on top of my head.

The smell of plums filled my nose, and a tad of nervousness. My heart always pulses fast when I was with him. In some way, it made me feel alive.

“I visited every single pharmacy near your dorm to find you. This was the last stop.” He whispered, and my chest ached.

“You can’t keep getting away with this,” I murmured. “It’s not healthy.”

He chuckled. “I’ll only feel good when you’re in my arms and I can smell you, touch you, and hear your voice. To me, it sounds healthy.”

I’m not sure if stalking me is considered healthy, but everything in his head is quite different.

“What did you buy? Are you sick?” He suddenly asked and drew away.

My heart skipped a beat. My purse was empty, except for his medication.

“Uhm, I wanted to buy some vitamins, but the ones I wanted were sold out,” I explained with a faint smile.

His eyes narrowed. “Vitamins? That’s what you woke up early for?”

I rolled my eyes. “I have lectures, silly. So you should really let go of me. I don’t want to be late.”

He grinned and grabbed me by my neck. “That’s the last thing I’d do, my sweet poison.”

I stared into his empty eyes, and a chill ran down my spine.

“Ricky…I truly have to go. We will see each other when my lectures are over.” I murmured.

He sighed and cocked his head to the side. “The problem is,” he started. “It’s difficult for me to leave you alone. Even during the night, I have to control myself to not get inside your room through the window and watch you sleep.”

I looked around, hoping no one heard what came out of his mouth, and called the police.

Again, I love my life.

“People sit in jail for the things you dare to say to me,” I said.

He smirked and tugged me closer. “They haven’t caught me yet. It seems you never made that call.” He teased.

Why didn’t I? Have I liked this psycho from the beginning?

“Well, it’s never too late, is it?” I jokingly pulled out my phone, and Ricky snatched it from my hold.

“Don’t play with the fire, baby, or you’ll burn.” He whispered and leaned off the car to open the passenger door for me.

I reluctantly got inside, and we took off for my college. During the drive, Ricky put his hand on top of mine and held it tightly as if I were to slip away from his grasp and he’d lose me forever.

The pill in my purse burned through the fabric. It was a reminder that Ricky had mental issues, and he had violent tendencies that he couldn’t control without taking medication.

“Aurellia?”

I turned to him, surprised by the use of my full name.

“You shouldn’t search for unnecessary stuff. It will only confuse you.”

How did he know I was doing that?

“I have no clue what you’re talking about,” I said and smiled, but it was harder to breathe.

Suddenly, Ricky’s hand squeezed my thigh. “I’m serious. Stop with whatever you were trying to achieve.”

My eyebrows snapped together.

“Are you drunk? And stop holding me so tightly. I’ll get a bruise.” I scoffed.

Ricky stopped the car before the school building and slowly turned to me. Eerie vibes ghosting around him.

“Be a good girl. See you later.” He said and brought the back of my hand to his mouth, kissing it gently.

I frowned at him and exited the car. I never looked behind me, but I felt his burning glare on my back.

Has he figured out I took his medication?

I hurried to the lecture hall, my heart racing. If he found out about it, that can only mean he’ll punish me for it. He never wanted me to know his illness.

I quickly took a seat next to Jade and heaved a sigh.

“Is everything alright?” She whispered.

I shook my head. “I don’t know. Is being with Ricky the right decision? He’s not exactly right in his head.”

She quietly chuckled. “Well, that’s true, I guess. But I’ve never seen a guy care about a girl like he does. He looked like he’d kill anything and anyone in order to protect you.”

I recalled last week, and my stomach lurched.

“What if I need protection from him?” I asked.

Jade turned to me. “Then you’re in big trouble. That guy won’t let you go until you’re dead.”

Silence fell afterward, and even though everyone was listening to the professor, my heartbeat was the only sound I could hear.

Ricky loved me, but he had been lying to me. He deliberately kept his mental condition from me, knowing I would doubt him, because I couldn’t bear to have someone like my father in my life again.

He’d either speak, or he wouldn’t see me ever again.

⸻⸻

chapter 25︱shy

After classes ended, we picked up Emery’s cousin and drove back to school to show him around. He will be attending our school, and his mother is a bit worried about him because he’s quite shy and aloof.

On our way back to school, Jace was only looking out of the rolled-down window, his shoulder-length hair swaying with the wind. He looked similar to Emery with his blond, almost white hair and hazel eyes. He wasn’t as tall as Ricky, but he certainly wasn’t short. He didn’t look like the type to work out, so he was rather slim in his build.

However, when we walked around the school, all the girls couldn’t stop staring at him. Some even whispered loudly enough for me to hear , He’s so beautiful .

Emery and I giggled, but Jace looked unamused and uncomfortable by their words. Though I agreed with them, he was a really beautiful boy. Even prettier than me.

“How do you like it here so far?” I asked Jace when we stopped in the middle of the campus.

He folded his arms, looking anywhere but into my eyes.

“I like it a lot.” He replied and pushed up his eyeglasses.

Emery looked at me with a shrug. He barely says a couple more words to her. She said he was always like this. Not talkative.

“We still have one more place to show you,” Emery said, and he nodded.

As I turned around, I spotted Freya with Jade.

“Hey!” I shouted and waved.

Freya noticed me first, and she immediately smiled at me. Her hair was curlier than ever, and she was dressed in a cute light purple summer dress.

But her smile disappeared when they moved closer and she noticed Jace.

“Where are you going, you two?” Emery asked.

“We are going shopping. Freya wants some snacks again.” Jade answered.

Freya nudged her on her shoulder. “Yes, and? Girl needs unhealthy snacks to be happy.”

We all laughed except for Jace.

“Oh hey, Jace. How do you like the school so far?” Jade wondered.

Jace glanced at her for a split second, and then he looked at Freya, and his face turned ten shades redder.

Freya’s dress was very revealing. Like quite a lot.

“Jace! Are you shy because of Freya?” Emery exclaimed and put her arm on his shoulder. He was staring at the ground, fidgeting with his fingers.

I chuckled and glanced at Freya, who was flushed as well. I’ve never seen her more frustrated. She doesn’t get easily swayed by a guy, and Jace is not her usual type.

“See? Your boobs are almost in everyone’s faces.” Jade teased.

Freya slapped Jade’s shoulder. “Be quiet, bitch. My boobs are a work of art.”

We laughed, and Jade rolled her eyes.

“We should keep going. We had to take Jace back home soon.” Emery announced after she looked at the time.

“Come over tomorrow. We should have a movie night.” Jade suggested.

“Alright. We will.” I replied, and we parted ways, but I couldn’t help but notice how silent Freya was. She even pushed the top of her dress up to cover her breasts more. She usually doesn’t care about how much skin she is showing, so what made her act this way?

We quickly showed Jace the last place he hadn’t seen, and after that, we drove him back home. Emery turned on music and was singing off-key the entire time; my ears bled. Jace was looking out of the window again, but this time it looked like his head was clouded.

I tried to enjoy our drive, but Ricky had been occupying every place in my brain. I even turned my phone off so he wouldn’t bother us. I was sure he would punish me for this.

“Emery, I need to tell you something,” I spoke.

She turned the music down. “What is it?” She asked, moving her shoulders to the beat of the music.

“It’s about Ricky…I found out something.” I murmured.

She froze and turned to me. “Tell me everything.”

“Just promise me you won’t tell him anything. He will kill me otherwise.”

She pointed her pinky. “I swear on our friendship.”

He needed help, and he needed his family as well.

“Ricky has a borderline personality disorder. Were you aware of that?” I asked.

For a few moments, Emery was silent.

“We were always suspicious about my brother’s mental health. But he would never let my mother take him to a hospital. He said he wasn’t crazy.” She laughed. “But I guess he kind of is.”

“It’s not his fault, Emery. It’s a mental disorder. It can’t be helped.” I stated. “The problem is he doesn’t take his medication, and I’m scared he will get worse. He didn’t even tell me himself. I found out about it by myself.”

She sighed. “That’s how he is. You can’t change him, and he will certainly not listen to us. But I’m thankful, you told me.”

One of the main factors of having borderline personality disorder is that you have a fear of abandonment.

And Ricky for sure has that.

“But Aury,” Emery added. “Ricky doesn’t only have borderline personality disorder. He has psychopathic tendencies. He thinks we don’t know about it, but we do. We just choose to ignore it for the sake of our family. That’s why I tried to warn you before. He kidnapped you, and threatened you. We can’t blame BPD on that.”

• • •

After we dropped Jace home and said our goodbyes, we were soon back at the college. Emery had somewhere to go before coming back to the dorm, so I drove her a street further, and I returned. I parked the car in my usual spot and locked it.

But as soon as I took a step forward, a strong hand palmed my mouth. The scent of cinnamon filled my nose before the panic took over.

“Where the fuck were you?” The deep, velvety voice spoke into my ear.

“With Emery and your cousin,” I mumbled into his hand.

He spun me around to face him, and his eyes burned with fury.

“And you turned your phone off, why exactly? To anger me?” He asked, his hands clutching my arms.

I rolled my eyes. “You’re acting as if you tell me everything. If you’re allowed to have a secret, then so am I.”

He slammed me against my car, his face inches from mine. “Don’t get cheeky with me, darling.”

I was shaking, not because I was scared, but because I was angry. Angry at him for acting as if I wasn’t aware something was wrong with him. He never told me the full truth, but he hinted previously that if I knew his illness, I’d try to leave him.

He suddenly grabbed my face forcefully, piercing into my gaze.

“Why are you mad at me again? What did I do?” Ricky asked.

My eyes narrowed. “More like what you didn’t do. When will you drop the act and just let me in? Pretending to be fine in front of your partner is not how a relationship works, Ricky. You have to let me see all the ugly parts.”

He froze for a moment, and then he placed his hand on the roof of my car.

“But I don’t want you to see how rotten I can get. It’s disgusting. I can’t even stand it myself-”

“No!” I shouted. “It’s not your fault you have a mental disorder. But you have to take the pills the doctor prescribed to you to get better.”

His eyebrows snapped together. “No, Aurellia. I told you it’s none of your business. I don’t want to talk about it with you. Hell, I don’t even want to talk about it with my family.”

I placed my hands on his chest, feeling how fast his heart was beating.

“Ricky, talk to me, for God’s sake. I want to get close to you, but you keep me locked up. I won’t leave you because of your disorder.” I said.

He banged a fist against my car and whirled, rushing away from me.

It took me a second to realize what was happening before I stormed right after him.

“Why are you running away from me?” I yelled after him. I didn’t care if someone heard me.

“You think I’m insane. You think I’m not good in the head because I’m on pills.” He mumbled more to himself than to me. I had to sprint after him to catch up. “That’s exactly the reason I didn’t want you to know anything.”

We ended up in some random alley with barely any light to see where I was going. My pulse was in my throat, and I thought I’d get a heart attack, but I did what crossed my mind at that moment.

I hugged him from behind as tightly as I could.

Ricky halted, and his muscles tensed.

“Don’t hide yourself now. Don’t be scared of being vulnerable with me.” I whispered.

He took a deep breath and relaxed his muscles.

“I’m not what you want me to be. You’ll never change me. I’ll always loathe this side of me, and even your words won’t convince me otherwise.” He stated.

“I’m not trying to change who you are. As you can see, I’ve gotten quite used to it. I just want you to be honest with me. I can’t be with someone who’s like my father, Ricky. I don’t want to be scared of what you might do to me-”

In the blink of an eye, he turned around.

He grabbed me by my neck and drew me closer to him. “I told you before that I’d never hurt you. But I’ll kill and destroy anyone who gets in my way of having you. You’re so fragile.” With his thumb, he touched my lips. “I never want to see you fall apart again.”

And just like that, he hoisted me and threw me over his shoulder. From my previous experience, I knew screaming and kicking were pointless, so I was merely observing his ass and hoped Emery wouldn’t get mad at me when she didn’t find me in my room.

When I heard Ricky paid for a room, I knew we were in a motel that is a couple of minutes away from my school.

He didn’t put me down until we entered the room.

“The dorm director will kill me when she finds out I’m not back yet, Ricky. I can’t stay the night.” I tried to get past him, but his strong arm blocked the door.

I looked up at him and sighed.

“I wish I gave a fuck, but I thankfully don’t. Get on the bed before I get more pissed off.” He ordered.

Oh, my stupid heart. Why did it have to be him?

I reluctantly walked to bed and sat down with a scoff.

Ricky settled down next to me and shifted me onto his lap, of course.

His warm hand enveloped my waist, and I sensed butterflies in my stomach.

“I left home and traveled abroad to find a better medication. The pills you have found in my car have awful side effects. Even worse than my mood swings. So I packed my bags and hoped I’d find something that worked better.” He chuckled softly. “I was a fool because I already found it.”

My eyes widened. “You did! Where? And how are you feeling now?”

He found my gaze and smiled.

“I only feel better when you’re with me. I realized that when I left before the gala event. When I was away from you, I never felt worse.” He said, and my heart clenched.

I touched his face and smiled. “I’ll take that answer, but you must promise to me you’ll never hide anything important from me.”

He smirked and pushed my head under his chin. “It’s not like I’ll have a choice, baby. We will live together.”

“You’re so confident. Who said, I want to live with you?” I teased.

He sighed and laid me on the bed. He hovered over me, his big gray eyes observing me.

“I already told the Devil about you. You will live with me.” He grinned before he kissed me with his tongue. He rolled my top slowly up and caressed my breast.

“R-Ricky, let’s go on a date tomorrow,” I whispered when he moved his lips under my jaw.

He quickly looked at me. “That’s a great idea. You don’t have to leave then. Tomorrow is in a couple of hours.” He said and went back to kissing me.

“No, I meant I’ll leave and we will meet up tomorrow.”

I whizzed as he bit me in the crook of my neck.

“What was that for?!” I shout-whispered.

Ricky kissed me again, and again, and again.

“Punishment for stealing one of my pills. You thought I wouldn’t notice?” He laughed.

My cheeks heated.

He squeezed them when he noticed their color.

“And I have a better idea. We will go back to our vacation house. Be far away from humans.” He hinted, his eyes staring at my breasts.

I gulped.

“I’ll only go if we invite the girls as well,” I stated.

“Why? Are you afraid you won’t be able to walk for a week?”

“Yeah, that’s one of the reasons.”

He chuckled and drew closer to my ear. “Even your precious friends can’t protect you from me. But alright. Invite them. Let them hear you scream my name while I eat you all night long.”

A chill ran down my spine.

⸻⸻

I hope I didn’t offend anyone by this chapter. All the information about BPD, I’ve found on the internet. Not all of them can be correct.

chapter 26︱chaos

Being under the same roof with my friends and Ricky again felt weird. I wasn’t uncomfortable, but I could feel the tension between them. Jade and Freya never told me they didn’t like Ricky, but I know they don’t exactly like him due to obvious reasons.

For instance, when he kidnapped me, you know.

Ricky drove us, and I was greatly surprised by his action. He only allowed me in his car, so I was glad he made an exception for my friends. Maybe they will one day all like each other, and it will no longer be awkward between them.

We settled into the living room with our suitcases. Everything looked the same as when we were here the last time. Only this time, it would be more of us.

A car pulled into the parking lot, and everyone looked confused.

“Is it your mother, Emery?” Freya asked.

“Of course not. She doesn’t know we’re here,” Emery replied.

I cleared my throat before speaking. “It’s Kaiden. I invited him.”

Ricky gave me a death glare, and Jade’s eyes were almost out of their sockets.

I smiled, but Ricky’s stare quickened my heartbeat. “The more the better. It will be so much fun.”

“I guess I should tell you something as well.” Emery chimed in, and our attention shifted to her. “Jace should be here any minute, too.”

Freya froze, and Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose.

“How many more people will come? I hope the whole college.” Ricky said, clearly annoyed.

I nudged him on his shoulder. “Don’t be negative all the time. We know Kaiden and Jace. They’re not strangers.”

“I really wish we wouldn’t.” He muttered.

“Hey!” Emery exclaimed. “Jace is our cousin. How could you not like him?”

Ricky sighed and folded his arms. “Maybe because he only says two words in a matter of hours?”

The front door closed, and Jace and Kaiden walked inside. Kaiden immediately smiled when he saw Jade, and Jace’s eyes widened as his gaze shifted to Freya.

It was pure chaos that Emery and I unfortunately created, since neither of us was aware of the sudden invitations.

“Hey,” Kaiden spoke first.

“Hi,” Jade replied, looking at him.

Their relationship had progressed a bit, and I wanted them to be together officially. Of course, I wouldn’t meddle in their business. I merely invited Kaiden over. The rest was in their hands.

I glanced at Ricky, and he was already sitting on the couch, texting somebody.

“Maybe I should leave,” Jace whispered to Emery.

I frowned. I won’t let Ricky’s stupid mouth make Jace feel bad.

“Don’t even think about it,” I protested and smiled. “We should get to know each other better. Soon, we’ll meet up more often.”

Jace reluctantly nodded and kept his gaze on the floor. Freya was intently staring at him, or more like she was checking him out.

We all moved onto the couch. I, beside Ricky, as he already waited with his arm open for me, Kaiden and Jade sat next to each other, both of them were blushing like crazy. Especially Kaiden. Emery went to fetch some cool drinks, and Freya with Jace were standing in front of the couch awkwardly.

“Come here. There’s enough space.” I gestured to them.

Freya suddenly chuckled and took a seat beside me. Jace decided to sit on the opposite side, next to Ricky.

Suddenly, music blasted from the speakers, and Emery was carefully walking back to us with a tray full of drinks.

She settled them down on the table, and we immediately took them. I almost choked because I wasn’t expecting so much alcohol.

“I know what we should play.” Freya put on her sinister smile, and I knew exactly what that meant.

“Please, no. Let’s just not.” Jade protested.

Ricky took a deep breath and grabbed me tighter. “What are we? Fifteen?”

Emery rolled her eyes. “Stop bitching. It will be fun.”

“I agree. Nothing bad can happen.” I said, and Freya and I smirked.

“I disagree.” Jade chimed in. “In movies, always something bad happens when they play truth or dare.”

That’s exactly what we need.

Jade liked Kaiden for a long time. She’s just very shy, but inside, she’s not so innocent. I once borrowed a book from her, and I was reading it with my jaw on the floor.

“Emery, just bring us an empty bottle and let’s begin,” I said, and she rushed to the kitchen.

When she returned, she placed the empty beer bottle in the middle of the table and took a seat next to Jace.

No one wanted to go first. We all just stared at each other. We definitely needed more alcohol before starting this.

“Let me go first.” I broke the silence.

Ricky sighed and shook his head. “I’ll go first.”

He spun the bottle, and it looked like a carousel. It then stopped spinning and was pointing at me.

I turned to him with a big smile on my face. He was dressed all in black, with his hood on. But his eyes were what captivated me the most.

I might even say he made me more nervous than ever.

He smirked at me and grabbed me by the waist. My heartbeat hammered against my ribs.

“Truth or dare, beautiful?” He asked.

My chest tightened.

“T-Truth.”

Ricky’s face softened, but his fingers bored into my skin.

“Would you still have come here if it were only just the two of us?”

My lips parted, my tongue turned to stone.

Would I? I wasn’t sure myself.

“Maybe-” I burst out.

He frantically shook his head. “Yes, or no, darling.”

I felt everyone’s eyes on me. The color of my cheeks was definitely five shades darker, and a sweat formed on my neck.

Well, I did this to myself. Now I’m paying the price.

“Yes,” I stated, and when I felt his fingers no longer pushing into my skin, I let out a shaky breath.

Ricky put his arm around my neck and whispered into my ear, “Good choice.”

I swallowed hard.

I was the next one to spin the bottle, but because I was in a trance, Ricky seized that opportunity to spin it again. But yeah, it’s a childish game, yet he can’t get enough of it.

The bottle pointed at Freya.

Emery laughed, and Freya rolled her eyes.

“I’m choosing dare,” Freya spoke before Ricky could ask her the question.

Ricky grinned wickedly.

“I dare you to sit on Jace’s lap for the next four rounds. If you refuse, then you have to drink the whole bottle of vodka.”

Freya had never looked more petrified. She never refused any dares and even went beyond the line to win. But for some reason, she was holding back.

She looked at Jace, who looked like he had had a heart attack.

“Don’t tell me, you’re refusing?” Ricky teased.

She shot him a death glare. “Never.” Freya seethed.

I reached for my drink and took a sip. The air was filled with a weird tension.

Freya, meanwhile, got up with her fingers curled into a fist.

“Will you mind?” She asked Jace, her eyebrows drew together.

He avoided her gaze.

“It’s just a stupid game, Jace. Don’t let her lose.” Emery spoke with a playful tone in her voice.

Freya took a seat on his lap as if they were married for years, and Jace didn’t move a single limb the entire time. He simply turned into a statue.

And that’s where shit started to go down because we started to drink too much, mixing alcohol that shouldn’t be mixed. Even though I was not in my best senses, I was surprised to see Freya still sitting on Jace’s lap for more than four rounds. He never complained. It was the other way around. He looked kinda happy about it.

Ricky, out of nowhere, suddenly grabbed my chin and pressed his mouth to mine.

“You’re terrible at drinking. Are you aware of that?” He asked.

I laughed and clutched his hoodie. “It doesn’t matter. You’re here.”

He kissed my forehead and caressed my hair. I didn’t know if I was feeling sleepy because of the alcohol or the way his fingers massaged my scalp, but the next time I opened my eyes after closing them for a split second, I was suddenly in the air, being carried.

Ricky stopped in his steps when the front door opened and a guy with dirty blond hair came into view. I only saw him twice. At the club when he was with Ricky, and when he took care of my father.

“You’re late, Mason,” Ricky said to him.

“I was taking care of something,” Mason replied.

Ricky sighed in annoyance. “Well, it’s no fun anymore. I can’t tease them because they are all wasted. But join them. Maybe you will find a drop of vodka somewhere.” He laughed and continued walking, but before he started to ascend the grand staircase, he abruptly stopped.

“Oh, and stay away from my sister or I’ll cut your head off,” He added.

Oh.

When Ricky settled me on the bed, anxiety rushed through my veins. I was trying to avoid being alone with him.

I know it looked ridiculous because he was my boyfriend. However, he was crazy as well. His craving for me scared me. Can a man really be so obsessed with you to the point of insanity?

I opened my eyes to find myself in an unknown room. Most likely Ricky’s room. It was dark and elegant. Black furniture and bedding.

Ricky’s piercing eyes made me look at him, and he was staring at me as if I were a sculpture he needed to observe.

“I told you, you will never escape me.” He murmured and grabbed a rope from the nightstand.

⸻⸻

A vote and a comment would make me very happy

^⁠_⁠^

chapter 27︱feel it

I froze for a moment, my heart banging in my chest. He was holding a red rope in his hand, staring at me with his arched eyebrow.

I felt tingling all over my body, especially in my spine. Everything about him screamed dangerous, but I only felt myself getting wet at the sight of him.

“What are you thinking about?” I asked in a whisper.

He walked closer, throwing the rope beside me.

“I’m thinking of fucking your tight, delicious cunt.” Ricky said and snatched my hands. I gasped, and he moved them above my head. He quickly grabbed the rope and tied my hands to the bed frame.

He gave the rope a tight squeeze, and I had zero chance of escaping.

Without a word, he went to the mini fridge and took out ice cubes. He crawled onto the bed and straddled my hips.

“Let me see you.” He murmured and lifted my shirt.

He stared at my breasts as if he saw them for the first time, and smirked.

His fingers grasped my breast, squeezing it and then playing with my nipple. I let out a moan, sensing the ache between my legs.

“I love it when you make that helpless sound of wanting me.” He whispered. “Do it again, please .” He twisted my nipple, and I moaned louder.

He groaned and leaned in, licking my nipple in a playful way. His hard cock wanted to break free between my legs.

“So sensitive.” He chuckled and kissed my breast, my back slightly arching.

I flinched when an ice cube was pressed against my hardened nipple. I had no clue why he was doing it, but it worked because the throbbing pain in my pussy intensified.

“Those moans of yours will make me come in my pants.” He murmured and shut my mouth with his.

He swirled his tongue, and I recalled how good it felt inside me. He just knows how to make a woman feel good.

Ricky leaned from the kiss, looking at me. “Did you really think I wouldn’t punish you for trying not to be alone with me? You even lied during truth or dare.”

Fuck.

“How do you know I lied? Why don’t you believe me?” I asked, trying to convince myself of this lie.

His eyes narrowed, and for a moment, I thought I had forgotten how to breathe.

“You can run, but you can’t hide.” Ricky softly said. “You’re all mine to play with.”

He attacked my throat, nibbling on the skin, leaving dark bruises behind. As he was licking and kissing my throat, his hard cock moved against my lower stomach.

Just move down, I want to feel you.

With my legs, I pushed myself slightly up, trying to feel some friction of his length against me, but as soon as he felt the change of my position, he buried his face into my neck and laughed. My stomach tickled.

After a few seconds, he raised his head and shifted to a sitting position.

“You like my dick so much?” He asked, and let his cock outside of his underwear. He was so painfully hard. I could see his popping veins.

“You want to feel it, don’t you?” He smirked and arched forward, rubbing his dick against my nipple.

I bit my lower lip, feeling the pulsing need between my legs.

“Ricky…” I murmured.

He chuckled and sat back on my hips. The view of him straddling me was indescribable. How could that turn me even more?

“You think begging me will help you? I’ll not satisfy you so quickly.” He said in his eerie, low tone. “Maybe your tears will change my mind, though.”

He flashed that wicked smile at me and stroked his length in a very slow way, while biting his lower lip.

I was starving. I needed him inside me. To fill my walls with his warmth.

“Look into my eyes, darling.” He stroked his dick fastener when our eyes met.

If he wants to torture me, I should do the same.

I let my tongue out and swirled it across my lower lip. The menace in his eyes flared to life.

• • •

Ricky’s pov

My dick grew harder, and the rhythm of my hips against hers quickened. It was so agonizing not to squeeze the shit out of her.

“I want that nasty tongue inside my mouth,” I growled and moved her skirt up, sliding hard inside her tight walls, invading her mouth with my needy tongue. Once my tongue found hers, I swirled around it, feeling her surrender to me.

She shuddered, and I groaned when I slid out of her and then thrust inside her slowly, enjoying every breathy moan she let out, every flinch of her body.

When I was done with her tongue, I kissed her like I wanted to eat her lips, giving her no time to take a breath.

Her lips looked red and bruised, and I wanted to take a picture of them and show everyone that they only belong to me. That her cunt was made only for my cock.

I bit her lower lip and then licked the spot afterwards.

“Don’t come yet,” I ordered, and slid out of her, immediately missing her warmth. I untied her hands and lifted her on top of me.

“Now ride my cock until I can taste your sweet tears,” I said, and shoved her down on my painfully hard dick. She braced her hands on my shoulders and tilted her head back, whimpering.

Fuck. She feels so fucking good.

Her walls tightened around my length, swallowing me inside her sweet cunt. I arched my hips, taking her even deeper than before, and the only thought that was running through my mind was that no one could compare to her.

“Oh, baby.” I moaned, and the slap of flesh against flesh echoed in the room, making me even wilder.

I grabbed her waist, controlling the thrusts. Her wet pussy became even wetter. I knew she liked it when I was rough with her. She enjoys it. She wants it, and she loves it.

Aurellia rode my dick up and down at a faster pace, moans and quiet screams escaping her mouth. Her cheeks were red, and pleasure was written across her face. That’s how much she liked my cock inside her.

She was breaking apart for it.

“I’m your sin,” I whispered and shoved her harder against me until my head fell back, and my cock was ready to come inside her.

Her nails dug into my skin, and the pain only intensified my pleasure. My dick liked it way too much.

“R-Rickyyy.” Up. “Oh, god, Ricky.” Down.

Fuck-that pleading voice.

I’d kill myself for it.

“Harder, please.” Up. “Aghhhhh.” Down.

She rode her orgasm, whimpering into my ear loudly, and seconds later, my back hit the bed, and I pumped into her so hard, I almost shattered into pieces.

Her fingers bore into my chest, and her head whipped in every direction.

This could capture nothing but my eyes, but if I could, I’d carve it into my brain.

“M-Mine,” I whispered, my hips thrusting frantically as I came fully in her.

I grabbed her ass and squeezed it. So full. So perfect in my hands.

I opened my eyes and saw tears running down her cheeks.

I smirked.

I reached my hand and wiped them off, licking them. She was a beautiful mess. Mess that I created.

The whole day, she was trying to avoid me having her. Acting as if she didn’t want me to fuck her to the point she couldn’t speak.

It was impossible for me to control myself. All I wanted was to bend her over my lap and finger her until she begged for me to take her hard.

Unfortunately, I didn’t come to that. But next time it will, if she keeps up with these games.

“Come here.” I hoisted her to slip my cock out of her, even though I didn’t want to, and rested her on my chest.

She was still breathing quickly. Her hot breath tickled my ear.

“Ricky.” She softly said.

I tangled my fingers into her hair, massaging her scalp. “What is it?”

She snuggled closer, and I smiled.

“Even though you’re crazy, my feelings for you can only intensify.” She laughed, and the sound of her laughter almost made me shove my tongue into her mouth again.

I don’t think the constant need to touch her will ever pass.

How can I not touch her when I want to feel her all the time?

“I’m your sickening desire,” I stated, and slapped her ass. “Don’t fight against it. It will not work anyway.”

⸻⸻

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chapter 28︱keep you

The agony between my legs and thighs was intense, but Ricky’s arms tangled up around my body made up for it. We experienced something new together, and I loved every second of it, no matter how much pain my body was feeling.

I remembered his desperate touch, his whiny moans, and his incredible dick.

This time it was more personal, with much more feeling between us. I had never thought Ricky would show me his vulnerable side and let me see him feel for me.

The heat of our bodies and the rhythm of his heart drumming in my ear made me smile.

I spread my fingers across his chest, gently caressing his skin. It was so soft and nice against my fingertips.

And I couldn’t even imagine some other woman waking up on his chest. No matter how difficult and complicated Ricky was. No one could love me the same way as he did.

The craziest, wildest, most unusual way

He’s a person who can’t be fully understood-only to an extent. And I don’t mind it because I know he’d protect me and love me even if all the people on Earth would hate me.

That’s why I love him. Because he’d always choose me.

The sudden movement of his arms around my middle startled me.

He sighed and tilted his head to meet my eyes.

“You know it’s creepy to stare at a sleeping person. Should I call the cops?” he whispered in a playful way.

I rolled my eyes. “So funny, Ricky. Are you seriously making fun of serious crime?”

His pupils are so large. I wonder why.

“Of course, not. I’ve never said it’s morally right to do so, but we’re a different case.” He said.

The corner of my mouth lifted. “Oh, are we? Do you love me that much?”

His hand moved to my face, and his thumb caressed my cheek.

“I’m going to love you so much that you will hate me.” He smirked.

My eyebrows drew together. “I think I already hate you enough. Especially because of the kidnappings.”

He shrugged. “Even if you traveled across the whole world, I’d find a way to you, and take you.”

I kissed his chest, and he took a deep breath.

“Don’t even think about fucking me again. I’m so sore, I don’t think I’m able to walk,” I stated.

He tugged me closer to him.

“Fine, but I’ll run a bath and wash you. I’ll simply admire you,” He chuckled in his morning voice, and it sent tingling all over my body.

• • •

After a lot of shoulder kissing and massaging, we went downstairs. I dressed in a comfortable black sweatshirt and sweatpants that belonged to Ricky, and he wore the same thing but in gray.

His fingers were intertwined with mine, and I wrapped my other hand around his arm.

He thought I didn’t notice, but I saw his quick smile when I did that.

As we entered the living room, we found Jade and Kaiden sleeping on the couch, snuggled together.

That made me very happy. I knew I did the right thing when I invited Kaiden over.

Then I looked to the other side of the living room, where Emery was sleeping while sitting on a plush chair, snoring. She was covered with a random jacket, though.

Ricky’s friend was no longer here, but Ricky said he had texted him that he had left somewhere in the early morning.

I was relieved everyone was alright, but then shortly after, I realized someone was missing.

“Where are Freya and Jace?” I asked.

“I’m sure they had a fun night as well.” He laughed.

I frowned. “Freya and Jace? How could those two have something going on? Jace is too quiet, and Freya is too crazy.” I ridiculed.

Suddenly, the door at the end of the hall, which was a small closet, opened, and Jace came out running out of there.

He didn’t have a t-shirt on, and his long hair was messy. He had lipstick all over his face and chest, and he looked like he had seen the ghost from the Japanese horror movie Ring .

When I was about to rush after him, Freya came running out of there as well, calling his name.

I turned to Ricky, and his face was screaming: I told you.

“Okay, I need water and breakfast. I can’t believe what I just saw.” I said, staring at the front door that was wide open.

Ricky tugged at my hand. “I’ll make you something sweet. Let’s go.”

Shocked, I let him take me to the kitchen. I just couldn’t believe Freya would like Jace. She always liked the “bad boys” and never the sweet, innocent guys. She always said they were boring.

But I guess Jace is the most interesting one for her now.

“For how long have you known?” I wondered, staring at Ricky, making me waffles.

“It was very obvious.” He chuckled. “Have you not noticed how they look at each other? Why do you think I told her to sit on him yesterday?”

Yeah, that makes so much sense now.

“I don’t think Emery will agree with this. Jace is to her like a brother.” I said.

Ricky leaned against the counter and cocked his head. “But Jace is not a child. He can decide for himself, darling. And he’s finally more interesting to me now. Who would’ve thought he liked Frena?”

I shook my head with a sigh. “It’s Freya, Ricky.”

He threw a dismissive hand. “The same thing.”

Ricky made a coffee for me, and I ate his delicious waffles. He sat across from me on the stool chair with his elbow resting on the counter, and his head in his palm.

He watched me eat so intently that I wanted to smile. Somehow, I kept my face straight.

It’s just one of those things he always does. However, it still makes my heart pulse faster.

Bare footsteps tore my gaze from Ricky. Freya, wearing only a huge t-shirt, walked into the kitchen. Her makeup was smeared, and it looked like she had cried because the mascara was under her eyes.

“Freya, what in the world happened?” I asked.

She silently jumped on top of the counter, staring at the floor.

“What’s wrong with me? Why would I do that? He hates me. He never wants to see me again.” She whispered and then started to sob.

I indicated to Ricky with my eyes to leave the kitchen. It took a lot of eye convincing, but after all, he left the two of us alone.

I touched Freya’s hand.

“I saw Jace and you running out of the same room. Did you two…”

“Yeah, something happened between us, and he surely finds it disgusting now that it’s morning and he’s no longer drunk,” she said.

Fuck, I can’t believe Ricky is right. Why did I never think of this possibility?

“Why would you say that? You’re the most fun and caring girl.” I squeezed her hand.

She shook her head, wiping her nose on her forearm.

“Please, don’t tell Emery about this. Nothing will happen between us anyway. He’s too good for me.” She sobbed.

I nodded. “No worries. Let’s just all forget about it. It was just the alcohol.”

“Forget about what?” Emery walked inside, yawning.

We froze, and then I slowly turned to her.

“About Freya throwing up in the closet. I’ll help her clean up.” I lied with a smile.

I felt horrible for lying to my best friend, but I’ve never seen Freya look like this. I’ve known her for years, and she never shed a tear or talked about a guy this way.

And they weren’t going to be a thing anyway, according to her, so why make pointless fights?

A couple of seconds later, Jade and Kaiden strode to the kitchen as well. Kaiden’s arm was on Jade’s shoulder.

They looked so cute and embarrassed.

“Well, well, well. Finally!” Freya exclaimed.

Jade laughed, and Kaiden turned red.

“I can’t believe this day has come. I thought it would never happen.” Emery added.

Jade rolled her eyes. “But it did, and now we’re dating.” She announced and hugged Kaiden around his waist.

I was truly happy for Jade, but when I looked at Freya and the way she was forcing herself to smile, my chest panged.

Whatever happened between her and Jace must’ve been intense, and she won’t get over it anytime soon.

“Okay, let me make you all the most amazing breakfast you’ve had in your entire life!” Emery announced and headed to the fridge.

We all sat down behind the kitchen island, and after a bit of chatting, warm hands sneaked around my stomach.

I leaned against Ricky’s chest, and he pressed a quick kiss into my hair.

“I should grab the fire extinguisher,” Ricky muttered.

Emery whipped her head at him. “I’m not deaf, asshole.” She snapped.

“I’m just merely voicing everyone’s thoughts out loud, little sister. You can’t cook.” Ricky stated.

They started to fight over breakfast, and we all laughed at them. The only one who was quietly sitting was Freya.

⸻⸻

chapter 29︱home

Today we didn’t have many customers at work. It was a pretty chill day. It was raining heavily, so maybe that was the reason. Everyone was hiding in their dorms, studying for finals.

And I was stuck at work.

At least I had Josh to keep me company.

“How’s your boyfriend doing? Still crazy?” Josh asked as we washed the dishes.

I laughed because he wasn’t wrong.

“All the same, but I think it’s different with us now. He seems sweeter? Or I’m just imagining things.” I replied, doubting my own words.

Josh glanced at me with raised eyebrows. “Man in love is a different person,” he said. “Even the crazy ones.”

I nudged him on the shoulder. “Just don’t call him that when he’s near. He can be very dangerous.” I warned.

“Yeah, I did notice. He looks at me as if he wanted to murder me because we’re friends.” Josh said.

I dried my hands with a towel and leaned against the sink, my arms folded.

“Ricky is not an easy person to understand. Even though I don’t get him one hundred percent, he loves me. He truly does. That’s why he’s so overprotective.”

Josh dried his hands as well and took a seat on a chair.

“Yeah, I get that, Aury. It’s just that he can’t expect you not to talk to men. He can’t cage you in his basement, so no other human would get close to you.”

He had a point, but Ricky wasn’t that crazy. I think…yeah, scratch that.

“I know. I’ll try to change his mindset on this. Although I think I’ll fail for sure.” I laughed, and Josh did as well.

We didn’t hang out for some time, except for work, and it was time to change it, so he could meet up with Emery.

Am I seriously a dating coach, or what?

“I hope you’re free this Sunday. We need to get a drink. Emery will come too.” I announced, and his eyes widened for a moment.

“Really? Will she really come?” He asked and stood up, grabbing my hands.

I chuckled. “Yup, she will. I’ll make sure of that. Emery needs a guy like you.”

He smirked. “A guy like me, huh? I like the sound of that.”

I rolled my eyes at him. He’s just a great person. You don’t meet a guy like him every day.

“You’re my friend, and I know you. You’re only one percent of thousands of men who are normal.” I stated.

Suddenly, he ruffled my hair, and I frowned. I playfully slammed his chest, and he did the unthinkable. He started to tickle me.

Rule number one: Never tell people you get ticklish.

“You asshole!” I wheezed in laughter, trying to escape him, but it was impossible.

Josh giggled into my face, and I was dying laughing. I truly regretted the day I told him, I was too ticklish.

In the chaos of laughter, we didn’t register that someone came inside. Not until we heard the bang of a fist against the counter.

Our laughter died when we spun to the counter, and my heart dropped because it was Ricky.

Josh immediately stepped away from me, and I moved further as well.

I was honestly scared to look at Ricky, but I had to anyway. And hell. He was so enraged. There were flames in his eyes.

“Listen, we were just playing. Josh didn’t do anything.” I burst out.

Ricky wasn’t even looking at me. His hateful gaze was stabbing Josh.

In a quick stride, Ricky moved in front of Josh, and I almost had a heart attack. Jealous Ricky was more unpredictable than ever.

Josh held his chin high, but I knew he was scared of him. Who wasn’t?

Ricky looked content on the outside, but the rapid falling and rising of his chest told me otherwise.

“Try to lay your fingers on her again, and I’ll gladly spend my lifetime in jail, rotting there for decapitating you.” Ricky suddenly spoke, his voice eerie.

I froze, my heart hammering against my chest. He wasn’t supposed to witness that. He’d never understand that Josh is just my very good friend.

Before I could utter a word, Ricky headed to me. He grabbed me forcefully by my hand without even looking at me.

“Your shift is over. Take your stuff. We’re leaving.”

• • •

Since we got into his car, he had been quiet, and that’s unusual for him. He didn’t even play any music.

I was staring out of the window, watching the drops of rain splash against it. It was the only thing that calmed me.

Ricky was driving pretty fast, and I didn’t even know where we were going. I wasn’t expecting him to pick me up, but when did he ever announce his arrival?

When we turned to a residential area, I knew something was going on. He stopped before a new-looking house and put the car in park.

He got out and opened the door for me. I clutched my bag to my chest and stepped out.

He shut the door and locked the car. Without looking at me, he walked the path to the house, and I followed him.

The house was modern, painted in black and gray colors. It was exactly my dream house.

Ricky opened the front door and waited for me to walk in first. I didn’t hesitate and hurried inside.

After he got inside as well, he slammed the door and locked it.

“Ricky…whose house is this? Why are we here?” I asked in the hope of calming his anger.

But he didn’t even acknowledge my question. With a poker face, he began to close the distance between us.

I dropped my bag to the floor and chose not to run, although I wanted to.

He almost immediately stood in front of me, his eyes dark and narrow.

“Do you like Josh?” He asked in almost a whisper.

My forehead creased. “Did you hit your head? Why would I like Josh?”

He suddenly grasped my wrists and lifted them.

“The thought itself is ridiculous. Why would you even look at him? Why would you even spare him a glance?” He began to crush my wrists. “That fucking smile…it only belongs to me. I swear to the devil, if he ever sees it again, I’ll go insane.”

I writhed in his hold, trying to break free, but it was pointless.

He was furious and jealous over a few seconds of laughter.

Before I realized what was happening, I was slowly descending to the floor together with Ricky.

He was on top of me in no time, pinning my wrists beside my head.

“Josh is just a friend, and he likes someone else, Ricky. You’re overreacting. It’s normal to laugh with someone,” I snapped. I didn’t care how angry he was. He needed to hear the truth.

I don’t know how it’s possible, but his gray eyes turned black.

“I don’t give a fuck about who he likes. He clearly wants you. And he even makes you laugh.” He snapped back.

I let out a frustrated sigh. “So? Friends make each other laugh. And this fight is so stupid because I’m dating you, not him. You’re my boyfriend.”

His hold on my wrists eased.

“I’m your man. Only I will make you smile and laugh. No other men.” He stated, his voice low.

I smiled because I found his jealousy a bit cute.

“Yeah, this smile is mine .” He smiled too and kissed the corner of my mouth. Then he moved to my cheek and under my jawline.

His hand freed my wrist and sneaked under my top, tickling the sensitive side of my waist.

I burst into hysterical laughter, and Ricky was enjoying tormenting me, of course.

After a solid minute of tickling me, he stopped, and I had to catch my breath.

He lifted a brow at me, staring into my soul.

“If you like this so much, you should’ve told me. I don’t appreciate the lack of information, since he knew about it instead of me,” Ricky said.

I took a deep breath, a small smile on my lips.

“Well, he knows me longer than you. And it’s not that I like it.” I confessed.

His brow dropped, and his eyes narrowed. He slowly got off me, and before I could get on my feet, I was lifted into his arms.

I took a sharp breath and looked at him in disbelief. He merely looked ahead and carried me into what looked like a bedroom, with a queen-size bed and a huge closet.

The bedding was gray, matching the walls, and a bigger record player was placed in the corner of the room. It was in the most perfect place.

Ricky let me down, and I stormed to the record player like a crazy person. Numerous records were stacked underneath it, and they were all my favorite singers and bands.

“If there’s anything you’d like to change, feel free to tell me. But I think I did a pretty good job at designing our place.” Ricky said.

I whipped my head at him. “Our place?”

He chuckled. “What have you thought? That we broke into someone’s house?”

I looked around the bedroom, totally astonished. Since when did Ricky have so much money? Did Caroline help him financially?

I suspiciously gazed at him.

“Speak your thoughts, darling.”

I darted to him, tilting my head to look at him.

“Have you robbed a bank? Is this really your house?” I asked.

He pulled me to him by my waist.

“Yes, it’s our house. I do work and earn my money.”

My eyes widened.

“Huh? I thought you had no job.”

He wholeheartedly laughed.

“I do computer work from home.”

Oh, that makes so much sense now. Is it weird that I didn’t know my boyfriend had a job?

Probably.

“Ohh, that’s great. You must get a lot of money then.” I mumbled, thinking if the bed was too expensive.

“Yeah, I do. And I can give you anything you want. Could Josh do that for you? I don’t think so.” He remarked.

I shook my head. “Don’t start again.”

“It doesn’t even matter because he’d be dead if he touched you again. I hate that he held your soft hands.” Ricky then grabbed them and rubbed my skin as if he could get off Josh’s fingerprints.

I stared at his handsome face. I noticed his hair had grown quite a lot, and I couldn’t wait for it to be longer, although a buzz cut suited him, too.

Despite how he acted today, he was surprisingly gentle with me. He gave me no punishment. Not that I wanted one, of course.

“What is that?” I exclaimed, seeing a shining silver ring on my finger.

“Don’t worry. We’re not getting married yet. I just want every male on the planet to know, you belong to me.” He explained.

I gawked at the beautiful ring. I couldn’t utter a word.

Ricky didn’t even bother to show me the whole house. He tugged me to the bed and had me sit on his lap, while he stroked my back.

It always sent chills down my spine.

“I still can’t believe you bought a house,” I muttered.

He exhaled into my ear. It tickled.

“Don’t even think about staying another year in the dorm. Spending every night without you lying on my chest is making my heart clench. I don’t know why it’s happening, but I hate it.” He softly said.

I looked down at my fingers, obsessing over the ring. A few months ago, I thought I’d send him to jail, and now I was sitting on his lap, with his ring on my finger.

Life is crazy.

Ricky buried his face in my hair and groaned.

“What is it?” I asked, feeling how my body relaxed to his touch.

He groaned again.

“I can’t wait to have you all to myself. To wake up with you, and fall asleep on top of you, my sweet poison.” He whispered.

I was slowly falling to sleep, but before I let the drowsiness take over my body, I heard Ricky’s last words.

“I’ll lock you in this room and devour you like a feast. And the best thing is, no one will hear your desperate screams.”

⸻⸻

chapter 30︱my psycho

Summer break started, and I finally didn’t have to go to bed at 1 am because I had to memorize the last school material for the finals.

Life was great again. No studying, only partying.

I put on some random shorts and a tank top and went to the parking lot because Ricky and I were going to our house.

He created every possible reason under the sun to make me come there. It was hell when I had to study, and he texted me hundreds of messages. One of them was pretty memorable.

The psycho: Something is not right with the toilet holder. You have to come here. ASAP.

I descended the stairs, and Ricky was leaning against his car.

His gaze immediately settled on my outfit. I could basically see the thoughts in his head.

“Stop gawking at me,” I said as I stopped in front of him

“Impossible demand,” he whispered and pulled me against him, his hand on my ass.

I rolled my eyes.

“It wasn’t a request, and you know that, Ricky.” He ignored my words as per usual and started to kiss my neck. He squeezed my ass, and when I glued to his body, I felt how hard he got.

My core clenched.

“What’s wrong with the house now?” I asked, hoping he’d pull away as I started to get hot.

He licked the hollow of my neck, and I slightly shivered.

“The house is okay. I just needed to see you today.” He said, inhaling my scent.

I wanted to create some distance between us, but his arms were made of iron. Fighting against him would be pointless as always.

“But you saw me two hours ago, and then in the morning.” I laughed.

He sighed in an annoyed way.

“I just don’t understand why you don’t want to move into our house already. It’s summer, and you won’t be here for the next semester anyway.” He said against my skin, the low tone of his voice vibrating through my body.

Even though it was summer break, many students stayed in the dorm. Some couldn’t go back home because of the distance or just financial issues.

Why was I staying in the dorm instead of with Ricky?

I was honestly a bit scared.

I’ve always lived with the girls, and never only with a boyfriend. And Ricky had been clingy lately. My heart rate was always too high.

What if I develop some disease because of it? Is it okay for your heart to always beat so fast?

I heavily doubt that.

Of course, this feeling won’t last forever. But it’s difficult to contain myself sometimes. When he’s near me, I always want to touch him and kiss him, and let him fuck me in his questionable ways.

If this continued, he would get sick of seeing me. Having separate moments from each other is important. But apparently, to him, it’s the stupidest thing he’s ever heard, as I once voiced my opinion.

“I already told you I need time to think. And I already paid for the dorm.” I pointed out.

He abruptly raised his gaze at me.

“I’m sure you did that on purpose, didn’t you? But don’t worry. I’ll give you back the money you spent.” He smirked.

I didn’t say anything, just rolled my eyes, and we left the parking lot.

Walking the path inside the house was so familiar; I was getting used to it. It started to really feel like our place.

Ricky unlocked the door, and we moved to the back of the house, on a porch. I sat down on the couch we picked out, and Ricky settled right beside me.

I took his hand, and he raised his brow at me.

“My…my mom wants to meet you someday soon. I told her I’m not sure if you-”

“Of course. I can’t wait to get to know her. The sooner the better.” He smiled and squeezed my hand.

I thought he wouldn’t agree to a meeting, but I guess he wanted to prove to me that he truly meant it with me.

His hand suddenly shifted from my hand to my thigh.

I looked at him and couldn’t escape those beautiful gray eyes.

“Why do I feel like you’re making excuses to not move in?” He asked, and my eyes widened.

“I’m not! Why would-” but my words were cut off as I was yanked onto his lap, my ass hanging in the air.

His hand was plastered on my back, and I trembled.

“Liar. Big fat liar.” He smacked my ass, and I yelped.

It left a hot tingling sensation afterward, and I kinda…liked it.

“Either we will do it your way, or my way.” He softly said. “I will handcuff you to our bed, and you won’t leave our house until you say you will move here.” His hand landed on my ass again in a harsh slap.

“You’re crazy,” I mumbled.

He slapped me again.

“Thank you. I can be even crazier.”

Then he turned me to face him, and he held me in his arms as if I were a baby. His free hand slid into his pocket, and he pulled out an envelope.

“Here.” He placed it into my hand with the strangest look in his eyes, almost like excitement and anticipation.

I gave him a wary glance and opened the envelope.

I immediately screamed.

“No fucking way!” I exclaimed and wrapped my hands around his neck.

He patted my back, laughing.

“I can’t believe you got the tickets for my favorite band. This is so crazy. I thought I’d never seen them live.” I burst out, tears in my eyes.

Even though I was saving up money to see them one day, I was still far away from buying a ticket.

Knowing I could hear and see them made my heart burst.

“I’ll make every wish true for you,” Ricky said, and I pulled back to look at him.

I cupped his cheeks, giving him a deserved kiss.

I stared at the tickets again, my heart pulsing quickly in my veins. The summer couldn’t have started better.

“You know.” He started. “I like it when I make you come, and when you scream my name, but I love it when I make you smile. That can’t be compared to anything.”

“I don’t know if I should be upset or pleased by your speech,” I said, my eyebrow arched.

He abruptly kissed me with his tongue and licked my lips afterwards. “Pleased, baby.” He winked.

• • •

For the concert, I dressed in a sleek, velvet red dress with a slit on the side. With it, I wore dark tights and black leather high boots. I kept my hair down and slightly curled it.

I’ve dreamt about the concert for years. But the tickets were always expensive. Now I could finally see my dream come true.

Some people don’t understand this feeling. As a music lover, I can’t go a day without hearing a single song.

It just fills my soul with love.

When I descended the stairs, Ricky was leaning against his car, cigarette between his fingers.

“I hope you won’t make me go and change because that’s not happening. I killed this outfit.” I said.

He put his hand on my shoulder and tucked the strap of the dress down. “Why would I do that?”

I pushed the strap back up.

“You’re already claimed. You have my ring around your finger. And , I’m going with you.” He leaned to kiss my shoulder, and I slightly shivered.

I touched his waist, holding it tight. “You’ve changed.”

He chuckled as if mocking my statement. “Let’s go. You don’t want to miss the concert, do you?”

The drive there wasn’t that long. Only an hour. The sun was setting, creating a beautiful orange and pink mixed color in the sky.

Ricky was blasting his favorite songs, with one hand on the wheel and the other on my thigh.

I felt his piercing stare from time to time. I guess he liked my outfit a little bit too much.

He always looks at me as if he sees me for the first time, which is oddly nice and weird. Our whole relationship is fucked up, so I think it doesn’t really matter.

When we were close to the stadium, I opened the car visor to fix my makeup, just in case I needed more powder or lipstick.

But when I opened it, something that was placed there dropped to my lap. I almost screamed because I thought it was a spider. I can handle anything, but not spiders.

Ricky laughed, and I turned to him with my brows snapped together.

I rolled my eyes after a few seconds of death-glare and looked into my lap. It was a spiral hair tie.

The one he stole from me when he kidnapped me the first time.

I shot him another death-glare. This time with the hair tie in my fist.

“Are you seriously giving it back to me after such a long time?”

He glanced at me and then back at the road. “Yeah, I am.” He tapped my thigh. “Look at the visor, darling.”

I raised my gaze, finding a vanity mirror installed there. It even had an LED light.

My heart thumped.

“Okay, I’m no longer angry at you.” I smiled and tried the mirror’s light, looking at my makeup.

“You look sexy,” Ricky murmured, caressing my leg.

I smirked. “I know.”

When we arrived, numerous people were entering the arena. The ticket we had was for the pit, so I rushed in to be the closest to the front.

Ricky wouldn’t run at first, but he saw my determination. I dragged him behind me until I was in the pit. We weren’t the first ones in the front, but we were still close to the stage.

And when ten minutes passed, a crowd of people filled the pit and the seats above it. A victorious smile plastered on my face.

Not only would I hear my favorite band, but I’d also see them up close. It was like a dream.

Ricky’s hands enveloped my waist, his chest glued to my back.

“Are you okay?” I asked, holding his arms.

“Of course, I am. You’re with me.” He said, holding me tight.

I caressed his arm with the tips of my fingers, staring at the stage. “But if you feel worse, just tell me and we will leave.”

He laughed. “Are you so worried about me, Aury? You’re the best cure for me. With you, I’ll never be worse.”

“But still, you should try therapy. I can go with you if you want.” I suggested.

He leaned his head against mine. “We can go, but in my opinion, it’s just a big loss of our money. No one will fix me completely. I’m broken forever.”

Suddenly, the lights on the stage lit with red, and the band appeared in the smoke.

I squeezed Ricky’s arm tighter, my eyes wide. The people started to scream and wave their hands. I was left speechless.

It wasn’t until they started playing my favorite song that the tears rolled down my cheeks.

Ricky immediately wiped the tears away and started swaying our bodies together. It wasn’t a ballad song, but it somehow fit the song.

I cocked my head to look at Ricky, and he was looking down. He arched a brow, and I chuckled.

“Even if you’re broken, I am too. Together, we fit the broken pieces together, Ricky. We have each other.” I said, and he drew closer, kissing me with a smile on his face.

I didn’t stop kissing him. I never wanted him to stop.

The sound of the electric guitar was like heaven to my ears, and when the guitarist started to play his solo, Ricky grabbed my ass and kissed me deeper.

I put my hands around his neck and let him have me.

At least once in our lives, we question our taste in men or women.

I was sure I needed a nice guy in my life. Especially after the past with my father.

But Ricky made me realize that’s not what I want, or what I desire.

I fell in love with a kidnapper. With a stalker and a psychopath.

And now, he won’t let me be. He won’t let me breathe without his permission, without being in his presence. I’m caged in his embrace, and the worst-best thing is, I won’t ever be free.

THE END

⸻⸻

Thank you all for reading my very

messed-up, dark romance story <3.

It was by far the most insane thing I’ve ever written. I had so much fun,

and I hope you enjoyed it, too.

It’s now available on Amazon Kindle as well as on Goodreads. Link in my bio.

Now, what’s next?

Shadows of Submission

( It will follow Freya and Jace .)

Check out my other works!

SCYTHE - Completed

His Secretary, Her Boss - Completed

Shadows of Submission

Completed

Ricky’s pov︱chapter 1

The day I returned to my hometown was probably the day I lost every logical cell in my brain.

I didn’t like it here. If I could, I’d let it all burn.

The people were too judgmental; their stares were full of disgust, even though I never did anything bad to them.

It’s not like I’m a people person. I prefer my peace, which is far away from humans.

The only guy I talked to in this shithole was Mason. He was the only one whom I could call my friend, whom I could trust with my life.

We hated and liked each other’s guts at the same time. That’s why our friendship worked.

“When did you get back?” Mason asked me, leaning against his new Audi, smoking weed.

I let out a puff of smoke. “I don’t fucking know. Does it matter?”

“It does if you got here long ago without telling me.”

I took another drag of the cigarette. “Oh, you wanted to throw a welcome party for me? Sorry for ruining your plans. Will a kiss make up for it? I’m an excellent kisser.”

Mason rolled his eyes and stared out at the town glowing against the night. I’d found this hill years ago and kept coming back for the view-it was perfect for smoking.

“So, have you found what you were looking for?” Mason asked.

I threw the used cigarette off the hill. “Nah, everything sucks. I’m getting out of control. Only cigarettes calm me down.”

“I could search for doctors-”

“No.” I cut him off, brushing my fingers through my hair. “I’m done with doctors. I’m done with fighting myself.”

My phone began to ring, but I ignored it. It was definitely my mother. She didn’t know I was back home, so she still sent me hundreds of messages about how I dared to travel abroad without telling her about it again.

I knew since I was a kid that she was scared of who I would become. She never said it to my face, but I felt it. She was staring at me when I was looking in the opposite direction, probably thinking what was wrong with me.

It bothered me at the beginning. I hated doctors. I didn’t understand what they were saying; I just knew something wasn’t right with me. Why would she otherwise always take me there?

My mother was afraid I’d harm someone. She smiled at me but never hugged me. She wasn’t a big hugger, though. She barely even hugged Emery, unlike most mothers with their daughters.

But I knew she loved me. She wasn’t spineless, but there was always the question at the back of her mind: Why is he not

like other kids?

Both my parents and sister pretended like there was nothing wrong with me. They thought they were good liars, but I could see through them.

People at school always glared at me. I never smiled or laughed, and I especially never cried.

I hated all of them, except for Mason. He often sat beside me during lunch, without saying a word to me. He and I were so much alike.

It was later, when I was at college and had become more mature, that I decided to go to a doctor by myself. I wasn’t diagnosed as a psychopath, but I had some psychopathic tendencies. They also found out I had borderline personality disorder.

When I finished college, I couldn’t sit at home with my parents any longer. I hated myself for being like this. I wasn’t emotionless. I felt things.

I wanted to get better. To be normal. Find better medication.

But there was nothing better out there. If better options existed, people with mental disorders would be cured.

So I came back home. I bought a very expensive apartment and decided to live, even though I’d rather not exist.

There was still my sister who needed me. She was the only thing I truly cared about. I couldn’t leave her. At least, not yet.

“Man, pick up the damn phone. It has been ringing for minutes.” Mason’s angry voice pulled me out of my reverie.

I let out a breath and dug my phone out of my pocket.

It wasn’t my mother who kept texting me and calling me. It was my sister.

I immediately picked it up. “What’s going on?”

“

I-I need your help. If you won’t come, I’ll be in so much trouble, please.“ She talked over loud music. Emery did mention to me that she was throwing a huge party, but I forgot about it.

Ever since I got home, she has wanted to spend time with me. But it was better when she stayed away, and I could watch over her from a distance.

“Where are you?”

She took a deep breath. “At a cabin. I’ll send you my location. People don’t want to leave, and cops were called on us. Please, Ricky. Help me.”

“Fuck, Emery. I’ll kill you.” I hung up, swinging the car door open.

“What happened?” Mason wondered, but I had no time for explanation. If our parents found out about it, it would be over for her.

I was driving without looking at how fast I was going. The cabin was pretty far away, but I wouldn’t let the cops find Emery sooner than me.

It took me less than ten minutes to get there. I parked the car in front of the cabin and grabbed a gun from the glove compartment.

I marched my way inside, seeing all the chaos that my little sister could never handle on her own. People were fighting, singing, and dancing all at once.

“Thank God you’re here!” Emery ran to me, her hair messy, with a bit of mascara under her eyes.

“Yeah, I’m your God for tonight. Repay me for it later.” I caressed her hair and then unplugged the speakers that made my ears bleed. I flipped over some random table, and every single head snapped at me.

I pulled the gun from my jeans, and everyone’s face turned to terror. The gun wasn’t mine. It was Mason’s.

“Either every single one of you will get out immediately, or-” I loaded the gun. “I’m going to use this gun to blow your brains out. And yes, it’s very real. Not a toy.” I said with a smile on my face.

The people who were fighting let each other go and ran for their lives out of the door. Everyone else followed shortly after them.

I put the gun back inside my jeans and lit up a cigarette. “Anything else, princess?”

“I’m not going to ask right now why you have a gun, but yes, there’s another small, little thing I need help with.”

We walked outside, to the back of the cabin, and three wasted girls leaned against the trunks of pine trees.

I recognized them from Emery’s social media. I’ve never paid much attention to them, though. I only wanted to see what my sister was doing while I was gone.

“Where have you been?!” The girl with long, brown, wavy hair shouted, waving at Emery.

Emery chuckled and hurried to her friends. I strode slowly after her, my eyes never straying from the brown-haired girl.

She was dressed in a strapless top and a leather skirt.

She was very pretty to look at. Very. Pretty.

The other two girls were bickering, but it was gibberish. Drunk people are so fun to watch when you’re sober.

Emery crouched down in front of the pretty girl and caressed her cheek.

“I can’t let them go back to dorms like this.” She whispered.

“Throw a glass of cold water at them. It will sober them up.” I said, grinning.

Emery shot me a glare. “Don’t be an ass. This is an emergency, Ricky. They can’t return to the dorm like this. They smell full of weed and alcohol.”

“Well, that’s what usually happens when you go to a party.”

“Ugh, keep your sarcasm for another day! I thought we would stay here to sleep. They have nowhere else to go.”

I narrowed my eyes when I understood what she was implying.

“No, you don’t get it. You have to do it. For me, please.” She begged.

I took a step closer to her. “And where will you stay the night?”

“I’m meeting with a friend. Don’t worry about me.”

“Yeah, like I didn’t have to save your ass right now.” I scoffed.

• • •

Unwillingly, I carried them one by one into the car, heading to Mason’s place, after I dropped Emery off with some guy. I couldn’t drag her with me. She wasn’t a child anymore.

And just as I exited the road to the cabin, I passed the cops. They didn’t look like they were in a hurry.

I stopped the car before Mason’s flat, calling him to get home immediately. Thankfully, he was only around the corner.

After I explained what happened, I gave him back his gun that I had stolen from him months ago and told him he had no other choice but to let the girls stay in his flat. Mason was actually a good guy inside. He’d never refused to help the ladies.

The good thing was that he lived on the first floor. He carried first the goth girl and then the curly girl while I was smoking another cigarette. I lost count of how many cigarettes I smoked.

As Mason was about to reach for the pretty girl, I grabbed his arm. “Not her,” I said.

He straightened, his brow arched. “What the hell are you planning with her?”

I smirked. “Nothing. She’s just coming with me.”

“Why?” He closed the car door.

I leaned my back against the car. “There’s something about her that immensely excites me. I want to corrupt her.”

“That’s fucked up.” He shook his head. “Won’t your sister be mad at you?”

I shrugged. “I always get what I want. No matter what, and I want this girl.”

“I’m going.” Mason got inside his car with a sigh.

I frowned. “Going? Where? You live right here.”

“I don’t want to scare them when they wake up. I’m not like you. I’m sure they won’t remember much. They smell of vodka.” Mason said and started the car, the engine roaring to life.

“Don’t do something stupid.” He added before he took off.

Me? Stupid? Never.

When I got inside my car, the girl woke up and fainted. Either it was because of my great beauty or because she thought I had kidnapped her. I liked both options.

• • •

I parked the car in the underground parking lot and took her into my arms. As I was waiting for the elevator, she stirred, clinging to my chest.

She turned me stoic, and even when the elevator finally came down, I wasn’t able to move. I clutched her tighter, having the most insane urge to have her for myself.

I’ve never felt these emotions before. My chest was heavy all of a sudden, and my heart was throbbing against my ribs.

I couldn’t imagine how I would feel once she’d looked at me. I wanted to wake her up just for a few seconds to get a glimpse of her eyes.

I got inside the elevator that took me directly to my apartment. The girl began to breathe heavily, mumbling something I couldn’t understand.

When I got home, I went straight to my bedroom. I laid her down on the bed and stared at her.

Her long brown hair was so beautiful in contrast with the bedsheets. I wanted to inhale their scent, to have them around my fist.

The constant, strange feeling in my chest got even worse. I pulled on my hair to feel the pain instead.

I took off her heels after I slightly calmed down and went through her purse. She had some makeup inside, a hair tie, and a phone.

I turned it on, and to my luck, it didn’t have a password. I looked through her music to see what she was into, checked her Instagram, and learned her name.

Aurellia.

I smiled and saved her phone number.

She was my fifth contact and probably the last one. I had never saved a girl’s number before. It wasn’t needed, but now it was.

Aurellia suddenly gasped, tears running down her cheeks. I turned the phone off and crawled on top of her.

“Please…stop. D-Don’t.” She murmured, shaking, her eyes still closed.

I wiped her tears with my thumb and drew to her ear.

“Shhhht,” I whispered and started to caress her hair.

She was fighting off her demons. She wasn’t weak-not on the inside.

Unlike her, I took over my demons. I didn’t fight them. I ruled over them. I couldn’t fear them because they were mine. They lived inside me because they were a part of me.

After minutes of massaging her scalp, she finally stopped shivering. I rolled on my side beside her and watched her sleep, studying her narrow nose and cute lips. Her long legs and full thighs.

She looked like what heaven sounded like.

I knew little of her, but I wanted to learn more. I wanted to study her like a book. Know everything she liked and hated.

My hand shifted from her scalp to her cheek. I held her like I owned her. I wanted to have her. I wanted her to belong to me. Only me.

She turned to the side, and her hand moved on top of my forearm.

Her fingers were long and slender, and the feeling of her skin sent a thrill through my body. I was so hard, I thought I’d burst. That never happened to me, but I saw that as a possibility. It was painful not to touch myself, but I didn’t want her to let go of me. I liked her warmth and the way she smelled and slept.

Aurellia had no idea what she had caused for herself. And by the time she’d realize it, it would be too late to run.

She’d be a part of my game now. And there was no way for her to win it.

There could be only one winner, and that was me, with my hand around her throat, fucking her like no one else could, filling her with my poison as I kissed her.

She didn’t know it, but she was already mine as she slept on my bed, in my apartment, with my hand on her cheek.

Because of her, I wanted to exist. I needed to live and be in her presence.

Life was finally worth living.

⸻⸻

The

Monster by Rihanna & Eminem was playing while I was writing this.

Let me know how y’all liked Ricky’s pov. I don’t think I’m good at writing male pov’s, lol. I was missing this insane guy, tho.

He and Death from my story scythe could shake hands.

This story is available on Kindle! Link in my bio.

bonus︱Ricky’s pov︱hide and seek

Because of Aurellia’s exams, she wasn’t able to come to our house to spend time with me for four days.

The last time I saw her was in the parking lot for a couple of minutes, which made me go mental.

“Where are you going?” She tore herself away from my chest.

“Ricky, I’ve been here for more than half an hour. I have to go back,” she said, trying to create distance between us, but my iron grip on her wrists didn’t let her go anywhere.

“But I didn’t allow you to leave.” I tugged her back to my chest, my fingers buried in her hair.

She sighed, caressing my back.

“What would you do if I had to leave for a month? How would you handle that?” she asked.

I hugged her tighter, breathing heavily. “I’d kill myself.”

She punched my back. “Stop! You can’t mean that.”

“I mean every shit that I say, darling. I mean this one, too.” I kissed her hair, inhaling the scent of her sweet shampoo.

After a few moments, I secretly opened the back car door and grabbed Aury’s waist. With a quick spin, I pushed her inside the car and crawled on top of her, kissing her soft neck, feeling her quick pulse on my lips.

Fuck, she was like a drug that I never wanted to sober up from.

“We can’t-”

“I don’t give a fuck. I want you.” I kept kissing her, biting her, and enjoying every second of having her under me.

If I’d known this was the last time I held her close to me after a whole four fucking days of not seeing her, I’d kidnap her again and lock her in chains.

And I wouldn’t care about the consequences. I never did anyway.

Me: It’s been 96 hours, 20 minutes, and 13 seconds since I’ve seen you.

Sweet Poison: I know… please be patient. I can’t fuck up this exam. It’s important.

I scoffed and threw my favorite lighter against the wall.

Me: Maybe you won’t fuck up the exam, but you will fuck me up. I can’t take it anymore. I’m serious.

Sweet Poison: Ricky, please. Don’t make it harder for me.

I didn’t want to make it harder for her. I wished I didn’t have to be this way. That I could be normal.

But that was impossible.

I broke into Mason’s apartment to drink with him. I didn’t even go back home because it was pointless to be there without her. To sleep in our bed and smell her everywhere, just for my arms to be empty.

This went on until Saturday came, when she finally texted me she was coming over.

I left Mason’s apartment to put myself together with a shower and new clothes. I picked a burgundy shirt with black slacks.

I leaned against the bathroom sink after I was done, staring at myself in the mirror, at my hair that grew back, at my empty, lifeless eyes.

I smirked and unhurriedly went to turn off the electricity in the entire house.

The amount of thrill that coursed through my body was uncontrollable. I couldn’t calm myself. I was so excited to play with her. To make her suffer. To chase her.

Once I heard the rattle of keys and the door opening, I hid in the shadows, smiling.

Aurellia walked into the living room, putting her things on the floor. I heard her flick the light switch, sighing.

I had to bite the inside of my cheek not to run after her. I struggled to hold myself back. It was killing me.

“Ricky?” she called, walking through the hallway, entering the kitchen, looking for me.

When she got into the bathroom after not finding me in the kitchen, I crept silently to the front door to lock it as well as to hide her bag.

I hid behind a wall when she got out of the bathroom to go back to the living room for her phone. It must’ve been frightening not to find her bag there anymore, to not have her phone with the only source of light.

Then she decided to open the front door, but in vain. When it didn’t open, she ran across the hallway, looking around.

That’s when I knocked twice on the wall.

Even in the pitch darkness, I could see her abruptly turn in my direction.

I hoped she was terrified. I hoped her heart was slamming against her chest like a hammer on a nail.

I emerged from the wall, standing in the middle of the hallway.

A loud gasp left her mouth.

She probably thought I was an intruder since I hadn’t replied to her message about her coming over.

She must’ve thought I was at Mason’s, and the man in front of her was about to kill her.

As soon as I began to move forward, she raced down the hallway. I followed her, knowing she had nowhere to hide or escape.

I locked the door to the porch, too, just in case.

My sweet poison was smart. I couldn’t underestimate her.

She first barged into my office because she knew there was another door leading to the storage room.

She slammed the door shut, and I almost laughed. She thought that could stop me. Cute.

When I halted in the storage room, I scanned my surroundings, trying to see if she was hiding there.

But because the room was too dark, I couldn’t notice her at all.

It wasn’t until I felt a soft breeze pass by me that I knew she was trying to sneak past me to the hallway again.

I let her escape me because I knew the only place she could hide was our bedroom.

As a nice intruder, I let her hide, and only after a couple of minutes, I headed to the bedroom.

The door was closed, but not locked, because we didn’t have a lock on it.

Quietly, I opened the door and noticed a shadow standing next to the door. I grinned as I strolled inside and grabbed her by the neck, slamming her back to my chest.

With my free hand, I fished for my pocketknife and unfolded it, pressing it to her neck.

She was trembling, breathing heavily, but all I could think about was her skin pressed to mine.

It took her only a few seconds to recognize me, and her trembling subsided.

I pressed the blade deeper into her skin and groaned.

“R-Ricky,” she whispered, leaning into my body.

The bulge between my legs grew larger.

I threw the knife to the floor, grabbing both of her wrists behind her back. I shoved her forward, to the bed, and bent her over it.

I pushed her jeans down, leaving her only in her underwear. With a fast swing of my hand, I slapped her ass so hard my hand stung.

She gasped and flinched.

Then I did it again, and again, and again.

I let go of her and straightened to my full height.

I deeply exhaled and turned on the battery-powered red lights.

Aurellia looked over her shoulder at me, and I smiled at her.

With a quick spun, I turned her around because I wanted to finally see her face. I didn’t know how it was possible, but she was even prettier than before.

I unbuttoned my shirt, staring into her beautiful eyes. She’d given me this shirt, which is why I wore it, and because I knew she loved it when I dressed formally.

I wanted to remind her of what she had missed.

She watched me intently, her chest going rapidly up and down. Oh, how much she’s enjoying this.

Swiftly, I unzipped my slacks and straddled her, taking her top off. She wore a black lace bra. I liked the view very much, but I wanted to see her naked. I tugged the bra harshly off, tossing it to the floor.

Without hesitation, I attacked her lips with mine, invading her mouth with my tongue.

I wanted to swallow her whole.

My other hand pushed down her panties, and when I dipped my fingers in her entrance, she was drenched.

I bit her lower lip, letting go only after I tasted her sweet blood on my tongue.

I was stone hard like never before. Every time I moved, I almost came.

“Aurellia.” I groaned, taking my cock out of my boxers and guiding it to her entrance. I rubbed my tip against her clit before I slowly sank into her, my eyes rolling back.

So wet.

So warm.

So tight.

“Is…is that a mirror?” She mumbled, arching her back.

In those four days, I bought a ceiling mirror so she could see herself falling apart while I was fucking her brains out.

I thrust into her, moaning into her ear, “Yes, sweetheart.”

She gasped, her walls closing around me in a tight grip.

I thrust into her again, but this time harder. Another moan spilled from my mouth.

Fuck, I missed this. I missed her.

I slipped out of her to turn her on her knees and hands.

“My goddess,” I whispered, and slammed into her again, making her whimper. “Bite onto the pillow because I’m not holding back.”

I pumped my needy dick into her pussy, holding her by her hips. She was shaking, enjoying every single thrust, the same as me.

I quickened my rhythm, slamming my full length into her. With each thrust, my eyes rolled back, and I couldn’t take it any longer.

My deep groan echoed through the room, feeling the orgasm building.

I wanted to stay inside her for hours.

She looked over her shoulder at me, our eye contact driving me wild. She did it to make me even crazier for her.

I leaned over and rubbed her clit, which made her loudly moan.

“That’s right.” I laughed and rammed in and out of her, touching her breasts and pinching her hard nipples.

She bit onto the pillow, clutching the sheets so tightly her knuckles were white.

As the orgasm washed over me with full force, I dug my fingers into her hips, groaning and tilting my head back.

“Y-Yes,” I mumbled, enjoying the wave of ecstasy rushing through my body.

My thrust slowly subsided as the orgasm gradually vanished. I slipped my cock out of her and rotated her to her back.

Her mascara was under her eyes, and she was panting as if she had run a marathon.

That was the effect of my dick. I was good at fucking.

“Pretty,” I said, kissing her stomach and moving to her breasts and neck. Sweat mixed with her fragrance emanated from her skin. It drove me wild.

I was the one who ruined her like this. Who made her pant and moan.

“I missed you,” Aury whispered as I marked her skin with my teeth.

She pushed my shirt down my back and rubbed my shoulders. She always liked my shoulders the most. That’s why I focused my workout on them.

“Say something.” Her hand tilted my chin upward.

I looked at her bruised lips and smirked. “Don’t make me go through this hell again, baby.”

She caressed my cheek with her thumb, staring into my eyes. “I won’t.”

We stayed like that for a while, me lying on top of her, her playing with my hair. It felt so good. I finally felt at home.

She was my home.

Later on, we showered together and cooked dinner. I taught her my favorite recipes, and she loved learning them from me.

In my next life, I’d become a famous chef.

As she cut the vegetables, I pressed my chest against her back and helped her with the knife.

“I can manage this by myself, you know. I’m not that incapable,” she taunted.

I kissed her temple. “I know. But I need to stay as close as possible to you.”

“Aren’t you exaggerating a little bit?”

“Of course not.” I grabbed her hands and whispered into her ear, “And I know you can’t get enough of it. You love my obsession with you.”

She squirmed, pulling away from me. “That tickles!”

“Oh, really?” I hoisted her into my arms and sat her down on the stool, tickling her everywhere.

Her laugh filled the kitchen walls, and I would never get enough of it. I wanted to hear it even in my coffin.

“Stop!” she exclaimed, giggling.

“I love to make you suffer,” I said, smiling.

When we finished cooking, we settled on the couch in the living room, and I moved Aury to my lap.

“What are you doing? I want to eat.”

I reached for the plate with food. “I’ll feed you. Sit still.”

I brought the fork in front of her mouth. “Open your mouth. You know you’re good at that.”

She frowned, but she opened it anyway. I liked to take care of her. I loved making her happy.

Because what I cared about the most was her never feeling sad again.

⸻⸻

Thank you for your support y’all <3.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9Qu_JXjbxo

check out my Spotify playlists! link in bio.

bonus︱trip

During the summer, we decided to go for a short girls’ trip. But of course, we had to do it in secret because Ricky would tag along, and that was out of the question.

What I hate the most in the entire world is when girls include their boyfriends everywhere, and friends are no longer important to them.

I’m not like that, and never will be.

Unfortunately, Ricky doesn’t understand that. If he could, he’d glue himself to me with superglue.

So, in secrecy, we planned out the whole trip. The only person who knew we were going on a trip was Josh. I had to tell him I wouldn’t come to work.

I was still living in the dorm, but I made a promise to Ricky that I’d come on the weekends to our house to spend time with him.

If I hadn’t agreed, he would’ve kidnapped me again. I’ve lost track of how many times by now.

I knew I’d get punished for it. But it was worth it. I wanted a break from the college setting and to spend more time with my girls.

Because all of us except for Emery were broke, we decided not to travel abroad. There were so many great places here we wanted to visit, but we all agreed on one. Las Vegas.

We met early in the morning in the college parking lot and drove off to the airport. My car wouldn’t last long rides, and I didn’t want to put us in danger.

When we got to Las Vegas, we checked into the hotel and went shopping immediately. Emery couldn’t help herself, like always.

She told us to pick something as well, that it would be a gift from her, so we picked what our eyes fell on.

Freya picked high heels, since she was a Heel Dancer. I was often jealous of her. Seeing her dance looked freeing. Unfortunately, I’d broken my ankles if I tried it.

Jade grabbed a new game; she and Kaiden were excited to play, since it finally got released. They were such gamers.

Emery didn’t save any money. She bought a lot of dresses, skirts, and makeup.

And as for me, I almost thought I wouldn’t take anything. I had a lot of clothes, but when we visited the music store, I had to take a vinyl of a new single by my favorite band.

I didn’t get flooded by phone calls or text messages because I turned my phone off. All of us did.

But before, I sent a long message to Ricky telling him everything, except for where we were.

We stayed there for five days, enjoying our freedom before another handful of semesters. We went to parties, we drank, but not to the point where we were wasted, and talked to new people.

I occasionally turned my phone on, and what surprised me the most was that Ricky only left my message on seen .

No reply.

I would lie if I said that didn’t make me anxious. Even when we were enjoying ourselves, he was at the back of my mind, my heart pulsing quickly at the thought of him.

I didn’t know if his silence meant he was angry with me or that he didn’t care anymore.

Both options were horrifying.

When our trip came to an end, my anxiety was high. I hadn’t felt like that in a long time. Yes, Ricky made me nervous, but not anxious anymore.

I kept my phone on when we left the hotel and hoped he’d call me.

“Don’t worry, Aury. My brother isn’t someone who lets things go,” Emery said as we got on the plane and took our seats.

“I hope you’re right. He never acted like this.”

She put on her earphones. “Believe me. I can be wrong about many things, but not about him.”

“This is so good,” Freya said as she sat next to me because she wanted a window seat, stuffing herself with an ice cream.

I rolled my eyes and glanced at Jade, who was in the other aisle, watching a movie, totally unbothered.

“This is serious, Freya. Something is up with him.” I whispered.

She gave me a narrow look and then laughed. “There’s always something with men. Get used to it.” She tapped my shoulder and went back to her ice cream.

• • •

Once we landed, I could finally stretch my body. We got our suitcases and dragged them behind us.

“We should do this again,” Jade said, smiling.

“Fuck, yes! We all needed that.” Freya chimed in.

Emery suddenly halted and stared across the seating area.

“What?” I asked and tried to find what she was looking at.

I didn’t take long before my heart sank.

“Well, good luck. We’d better go. This will go down.” Emery said and ushered the girls to the exit. They were shouting something, but I was completely deaf.

I stared at him.

He stared at me.

People were walking amongst us, and we were ignoring them like we were the only people left in the world during the apocalypse.

He looked tired, as if he hadn’t slept for days. He was dressed in a dark gray T-shirt and black jeans that were wrinkled.

I took a deep breath, never breaking eye contact.

He finally marched forward, and the closer he got, the quicker my heartbeat pulsed. I tightened my grip on the suitcase handle.

Here we go. I’m ready for his scolding.

I swallowed hard as he was only a meter in front of me, but I let out a gasp when he dropped to his knees. It was so sudden, I thought it was a hallucination.

His arms went around my middle, his fingers digging into my back, and his head falling on my stomach.

It was like a nail being hammered into a wall. He forgot how much stronger he was.

Even after several seconds, I was still looking ahead of me, frozen, my heart exploding in my chest.

He tightened his arms around me, breathing heavily.

“Fuck, Aurellia. I’ll fucking kill you.” He muttered. “Where the fuck have you been?!”

It was after I heard his sharp, deep voice that I looked down at him. He was truly on his knees for me.

I was trying to find the right words, but there were none. I vanished and let him know after I was gone.

“Ricky…” I whispered, and he tilted his head back.

“Where the fuck were you? Why did you leave? What was it good for?” His voice was full of rage.

I took a ragged breath. “I was with the girls on a trip. In Las Vegas. We were just spending time together, making new memories.” I answered truthfully.

He groaned and buried his head in my belly like I was a pillow. People were staring, but I no longer cared.

I didn’t realize he was shaking slightly until I looked at him again. I immediately let go of my suitcase and bag and lowered to my knees, enveloping my arms around his head.

“I’m sorry. We only wanted to spend time together. Without any boys.” I held him tight.

He nuzzled his face into the crook of my neck, breathing me in. My whole body tickled.

“Don’t ever do this again,” he said. “Swear on your life you won’t, or I swear to the devil-”

“I won’t. I swear on my life. I’ll make it up to you.”

He was still breathing heavily, but he was no longer shaking, so I even thought it never happened.

Ricky slowly looked at me, now with a hint of curiosity. “How?”

“Get dressed.” I caressed his hair.

• • •

I wore my mini black dress, with its sleeves falling on my shoulders, and black heels with red bottoms that Ricky gave me on my birthday.

The ride to my dorm was in dead silence. I was the one driving, which was not happening often. Ricky had his hand on my thigh the whole time; it was distracting me.

When I asked him how he knew he should be waiting for me at the airport, he only shrugged.

He was still angry, holding back his fury.

He knew how much I hated it when he was like that. It still made me nervous. The suddenness of his reactions, which he tried to suppress because of me.

He was smoking one cigarette after another, and I just couldn’t wait to get into my room, change, and make this all right.

Emery once took us to a fancy restaurant that wasn’t more expensive than everything I owned.

Reservations weren’t needed, so that’s why I thought of it first.

It was a restaurant on top of the building, with huge glass windows. You could see the whole town from up there.

Before I left the dorm, I put on red lipstick and took my purse. It was raining slightly, so I grabbed an umbrella.

I walked to the parking lot, holding the umbrella in a way my hair wouldn’t get wet. Ricky got out of his BMW, and my jaw almost dropped to the ground.

He was dressed so elegantly. The only time I’ve seen him dressed like this was during the gala event.

He was fully dressed in black. From his shirt, rolled up to his elbows, to his belt, shoes, and slacks.

He strolled toward me, taking off his jacket.

“Do you want to get sick, or what?” He said, and hung the jacket on my shoulders.

“Oh, I thought since we’re going with a car, I don’t need something on top. It would also ruin my outfit.”

Ricky snatched the umbrella from my hold and yanked the passenger door open.

“Get in.” He beckoned with his head.

Oh fuck.

I got inside without a single complaint, and he shut my door. He walked to the trunk and threw the umbrella inside.

He slipped behind the wheel, the engine roaring to life before he sped off. I put in the navigation our destination, and chose a random song to play because it was weird to sit in total silence.

I shifted my gaze to his veiny, tattooed hands on the wheel, and thought about how many times they were wrapped around my throat like a bow on a present.

The memory of it sent a thrill through me.

Suddenly, I felt my nose get runny. I truly underestimated the weather.

I opened the glove compartment, and thought I was imagining things. There were multiple empty pill bottles of his medication.

“Ricky, what is this?” I murmured.

He took a deep breath. “The result of your unexpected escape. I was losing it.” He closed the compartment and interlaced our fingers.

Okay, I’m guilty as fuck.

“Are you okay-”

“No,” he seethed. “No, I’m not okay. You left without saying anything, and when I came looking for you at the dorm, they told me you went on a trip because you had your suitcase. I thought you left me.”

I let out a sigh. “If I told you I was going somewhere, you’d come as well, and it would no longer be a girls’ trip.”

He squeezed my fingers. “So what?”

“Ricky, would you be happy if my friends hung out with us all the time??” My voice rose.

Suddenly, he had nothing to say about that. And for the rest of the ride, music filled the silence.

He parked the car in front of the building, and the rain got ten times worse. It turned into a rainstorm.

Ricky unhurriedly rounded the trunk to open the umbrella for me. I slowly got out of the car, and he pushed me against it, shutting the door simultaneously.

“Hug me until I smell like you.” He whispered, his gray eyes darker.

I snaked my hands to his back and pressed the side of my face against his chest. His heart was beating so quickly, and when his chest muscles contracted, I shivered.

Ricky felt like a fluffy blanket. Once you tangled yourself in it, it was difficult to get out.

It took us five whole minutes in the rain until we finally entered the restaurant and got seated. But thanks to Ricky’s arms around me, I didn’t get wet.

“You look great behind the table, but you would look better on top of it, with your legs spread out.”

My jaw clenched.

“Why not scream it into the world? Those six people who heard you weren’t enough.” If I could, I’d punch him.

“Who cares. Everyone is fucking everybody.” He said and got up.

“I won’t sit light years away from you when you were gone for weeks.” Ricky moved the chair next to me, manspreading.

I frowned. “I wasn’t gone for weeks. Only five days.”

His hand landed on my bare thigh. “To me it felt like weeks, though.”

I placed my hand on top of his. “And I’m sorry for that. But you can’t argue about the point I made in the car.”

He sighed. “Nah, I can’t. If Frena were all the time with us, I’d blow off my head with a gun.”

I smacked him, and he laughed.

“Do you hate her that much? She’s my friend.” I wondered, and the waiter served our food.

He looked at Ricky as he noticed he had moved the chair, but said nothing.

“I don’t hate her, actually. She and our cute, innocent Jace are so entertaining. I can’t wait for what’s going to happen between them in the next semester.” He grinned.

I began to eat because I was starving, and the food looked too good to be merely stared at.

“Nothing will happen. Jace doesn’t like her. I think he’s scared of her.” I replied, chewing the food.

Ricky put his hand on my back and caressed my skin. It felt so good to be touched by him again.

“If people weren’t here, I would bend you against this table, and fuck you so hard you would scream, darling.” He whispered into my ear.

Goosebumps formed on my skin in an instant.

I was left a bit disappointed. It was a shame that people were here.

I sneaked my hand on his thigh, and he froze. “How awful, your sick imagination won’t come true.” My hand moved lower, and his shoulders tensed.

My fingers rubbed him gently between his legs a few times before I returned to eating.

He was panting, gripping the fork so tightly, I thought he would bend it.

“Eat. Faster.” He choked out, and I smirked.

And that’s what happens when you play with the ones who think they can’t be toyed with.

⸻⸻

T

hank you for 500k! Some of your comments made me very happy.

For those who ignored my warnings and were complaining how crazy, and unhinged this was…lick my ass <3.

PS:

I’m already writing the second book (Jace x Freya); however, I can’t tell you the exact date when it will come out.

Please, be patient with me.