Kiss Me Where It Hurts のすべてのチャプター: チャプター 11 - チャプター 20

Gideon's POV “Here's your coat, boss.” Maxwell extended a gray coat to me, but I waved it off as I got out of the car… “Don't sweat it. Most of the people in there have bathed in blood more times than I have. They won't even pretend to notice.” This was just me being point-blank. Though I'd left the mafia for years, those who have once gone through fire and brimstone never forget the feel. “Where's Ariana and her mother?” I asked Maxwell as the doorman opened the front door for me. “Sir.” The doorman bowed slightly, and I barely glanced at him as I went in. “They both got in a few minutes ago.” Maxwell said, catching up with me the moment I stepped into the main building. “Keep an eye on Cecelia and make sure she doesn't go too far out. I'll look out for Ariana.” I said, running my tongue across my teeth as my eyes scanned for them across the room. “Sure, boss.” Giving a curt nod, Maxwell mixed with the crowd. Then my eyes caught hers, and my heart skipped a bea

Ariana's POV Trapping my lower lip under my teeth, I swallowed back the scream. Losing it won't help me or anyone. I'd only get scolded like a kid. “I’m s-sorry,” I said quietly. Maxwell appeared behind me as I turned around to leave. But I didn’t miss the coldness in his eyes as I walked out. The kind of look that assured me I’d have to answer to him for every single move or decision I made. When I got to my room, Maxwell was about leaving when I jumped right in front of him, forcing a smile. “Did Gideon ask about the guy from earlier?” He raised a brow, clearly clueless. “At the party,” I finished. “That’s none of your business, ma’am.” He said, and I drew my head back at his tone. Rudely respectful. With his chest puffed and shoulders squared, he looked on unblinking. Oh, I see—another hard nut to crack, this one. “Bloodshot eyes, dark circles, droopy eyelids, and a little gray on the side—” I pointed at the corner of his face, and he dodged my movem

Ariana's POV “Really? How long do you think he'll be out?” My heart raced as she tilted her head, clearly calculating the time. “Mostly for an hour or two. Is there anything you need, ma'am?” Beautiful. This is all I wanted. A moment of freedom. Leaning in, I said, “I was going to ask Maxwell to take me to a cafe around here.” “He left with Sir.” A small smile stretched the corner of my lips before I turned sober. Perfect. “But—” Maryjane’s expression brightened as she paused, and I gave her a searching look. What, now? “I'm going up to the store to get some bread for the kitchen.” My eyes lit up in excitement. “Let’s go together.” I offered, and she nodded. Since Gideon didn't give any direct order for bodyguards to go with us, me and Maryjane got the liberty to pick a less intimidating guard to drive us. The guy didn't seem like he belonged in Gideon's little web of soldiers, so he was the right pick. The moment we were dropped off, I sent Liam the address, and Mary

Gideon's POV “Go up to your room.” I said, ignoring her words, but she roughly freed herself from my arms, her hair tossed all over her face as she faced me. “Well, since you're acting like a saint. I'll find it myself.” Pain etched her features as I met her eyes. “I can't stand this kind of life. With you and Mom.” She sniffled. “Why won't you guys let me live a little?” Her question tore through a part of my chest at the tightness in her voice. Shit, she really meant that. Taking a few steps towards her, she backed away. When she tried to walk past me, in the direction of my office, I caught her wrist, pulling her back. The force of my movement slammed her against my chest. “Ouu!” She cried. “Please, Malyshka, don't push me and just do what I tell you to.” She stopped to stare at me, her eyes red and swollen, before saying, “Fine, just let go of me.” I watched her lips shake as she pressed them together, blocking out any sound. It took everything in me not to pull

Ariana's POV I almost jumped out of my skin as Mom's voice cuts through the air. Releasing Gideon, my entire body trembled as the realization hit.I just hugged him. A rush of emotions ran through me and I lost my guard. That must be it. “Mom.” I muttered, stepping away from Gideon.Her eyes burned with disapproval as I met them. “I heard how you caused a scene because of that silly job offer.” She said, when she looked at Gideon, her stare softened. “You're causing your dad so much trouble, and this isn't how I raised you, dear.” She moved closer, holding my arm, but her nails dug into my skin, and I winced silently. She was hurting me, but it looked like she was bringing me closer to herself. At least in Gideon's eyes. Leaning in, she says. “Didn't I warn you not to start any drama?” “You're making Mommy mad, and you'll get hurt.” I sink my teeth into my lower lip, swallowing the sting in my skin before Gideon's voice fills the air. “It wasn't any trouble. At least n