He kissed me, his tongue colliding with mine. As his kiss deepened, it traced a slow path down to my plump breast. He sucked gently—too gentle. Not what I wanted.
Then he moved lower, burying his face between my legs. He took his time, and while everything was amazing, it still lacked the touch I craved.
He slipped off his pants, and his cock sprang free—huge, but seeing it didn't arouse me.
He kissed me again as I matched his pace, slow, passionate, and soft. This guy was good, but I knew someone better.
My mind raced back to Adrino. I needed to get him out of my system before I went mad.
He said we should talk over dinner, but I couldn't make it tonight. I had to cancel — besides, Sean was spending the night. He came to New York for business and decided to spend a few hours before leaving tomorrow.
I reached for my phone, itching to call Adrino to cancel. Too late. I didn't have his number, so I texted Ken to call Mr. Adrino and cancel our plans.
I put down the phone as Sean chuckled, his hands exploring me, teasing my entrance. I moaned...
Pleasure. This guy was good, but my body craved more.
Then he finally pushed in.
I moaned louder, pleasure flooding me.
"Fuck yes... ahhh, yes... just like that, baby."
The next day
An unknown number rang. Surprising—nobody usually had my number.
"Hello, who is this?"
"It's me, Amor."
"Adrino."
"Hope you're available today. I'm almost at your gate."
"Huh? But I never gave you my address. How did you get my number?"
"Raven, I get what I want, remember?"
"Hmm, okay. But I'm not staying long."
"Why? Feeling sleepy?"
"No. You're married, and I'm about to get married."
"What do you mean?"
"Bye." I cut the call.
I picked a black strap gown for dinner, threw on my coat, and slipped on my best heels. I let my hair down and applied perfume, then fastened the necklace he'd given me the last time.
At the restaurant
"What am I here for, Adrino?" I asked after placing my order.
"Well, since you're in a rush, I heard there's a planned surprise attack on the Delaney Mafia."
"What? Why should I trust you?"
"You don't have to, but I know you do."
I sipped my wine awkwardly, ignoring him.
"Explain yourself. Why tell me this?"
"Your father—the man I adore and respect—he's in danger. The Russians are planning something big. Antonio Walton's mafia holds a grudge against yours."
"That's not true. Antonio's dead."
"I know, but he has kids."
"So what's your point?"
"I want an alliance with the Americans."
"Adrino, you don't make alliances expecting something in return."
"True. But this is about protection — and a yearly supply of guns and drugs."
"So you want us to trade with the Italians for a year to guarantee my safety?" I laughed.
"No, you don't believe me?"
"No, and I won't. Now tell me—are you in love with me? Am I so pretty you want to hug me, kiss me, fuck me senseless? Because I don't get this sudden possessiveness and nicknames."
He was surprised.
He chuckled, "Princess, for a second, I thought you were confessing your feelings."
This scumbag — dodging my questions with charm.
"Well, I'd love to, but I'm here for business, Aria. Maybe next time I'll answer that question, alright princess?"
"No, you won't. You're married, and I'm in a relationship."
"You are?"
"Yes. So mind how you speak to me."
"No problem. So this is why I called you out for a date?"
"No—you have to convince the man you adore. Then it's a deal."
"Oh, that! I already did."
"Did what?"
"Talked to Tom Delaney. He approved. He just wants your happiness since he feels he can't protect you anymore."
Maybe I was angry, but I smiled, grabbed my handbag, thanked him for dinner, and told him I agreed to his terms before leaving.
I felt eyes on me, but found nothing suspicious. I sped off to
PAPA!!!
I was mad!
"Why would you strike a deal without my consent?"
"Not just any deal, Aria. A deal about you."
"Papa..."
"I'm sorry. He was impressive. No wonder girls flock around him. He's realistic for a man his age. I didn't sell you or sign a contract for marriage—just protection."
He lowered his eyes, a hint of sadness in his voice.
How could I stay mad at a man like this?
"But Papa, it'll cost us money!"
"No, it won't. We'll gain if the Russians are gone. The city won't be on lockdown anymore."
"I'd trade my life just to see you happy. I couldn't be there for you before, but now I will be. I'm making amends, Aria. I want to give you and Bella the happiness you deserve."
"You've done enough, Papa. I understand why you weren't there. Stop trying to fix what loves you."
"No, Aria. Nothing is ever enough for you. You deserve so much—my pride and my morning star."
"I'm sorry I was mad."
"You had every right. I'm sorry too."
"Love you, Pops."
"Love you, my Aria."
Black Out
Unknown POV:
Aria Delaney—
You ungrateful little scumbag. You had the nerve to kill me.
Now I'll hunt you down, slowly, until everything you love crumbles before your eyes.
POV Out