Chapter Seventeen As soon as I reached the Clubhouse, I gracefully alighted the vehicle, observing the admiration and respect in the faces of those around me.As soon as I stepped out, I noticed a crowd gathered at the front door, with many people waiting in line.The pleasant scent in the air indicated that my presence had captured everyone's attention, causing them to momentarily forget their own affairs and gaze at me.I couldn't help but smile at the sight, knowing that my business was thriving. There were hundreds of people waiting to be checked in, and my wealth was steadily multiplying.Of course, this was to be expected. Only authorized individuals like myself could access the Clubhouse without registration.I scanned my surroundings, remaining vigilant as unexpected situations could arise. While I wasn't necessarily afraid, I knew that there could be potential troublemakers if they recognized me. My elegance alone did not reveal my status; it was only when my name was mentio
Chapter Eighteen I observed a gleam of delight on Fernández's face the moment I uttered Shirley's name, and it instantly caused a crease to form on my forehead. With an intense gaze fixed upon him, I inquired,"What brings you such amusement?" I questioned, my eyes locked with his. I yearned to uncover the source of his amusement.Fernández continued to chuckle, refusing to utter a single word. Summoning all my courage, I nodded my head, pointing towards him."Have you stumbled upon a jester or something? Do I look like a clown to you?"I eagerly awaited his response, shooting him a stern glare. I could only wonder what audacity he possessed to perceive my words as a jest. It isn't the first time he is hearing Shirley's name either.An abrupt silence enveloped us, followed swiftly by a clearing of his throat. I could sense that he was preparing to speak, but instead, he chuckled once more and replied, "Boss, no, not at all. Please forgive me, but it appears that you have developed an
Chapter NineteenShirley's PovWhile moving through the passage, I caught glimpses of the outside world through the holes, seeing the bright glow of streetlights shining through the cracks. This discovery filled me with excitement and showed me that I was making progress on my journey.The darkness felt so overwhelming, but right now, I could smell the fragrance tinted with hope.When I found out that the path did lead to an exit, just like Pamela had said, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy. I couldn't help but wonder how she knew about this hidden place. Carefully, I approached the end of the passage, where a faint light was coming from a hidden crevice. As I reached out to investigate, my hand brushed against a metal cover that sealed the exit shut. Upon closer inspection, I saw a lock that I didn't recognize, keeping it closed.Determined to break through this barrier, I gathered all my strength to try and open it, but my efforts were unsuccessful. In that moment, a plan formed i
Chapter Twenty While having the conversation, I noticed that he was considering ending the call."Wait," I said, stopping him.I wondered how I would be able to reach Felix in thirty minutes, considering the long distance. The thought of it filled me with uncertainty.I couldn't see a solution to the situation on my own. I needed more than just a partner; I needed someone to help me because it seemed beyond my capabilities."What's wrong, girl? I'm here for you."I needed to find a way out, if possible. A way that didn't require me to figure it out on my own."Can you help me?""Girl... What other help do you need? You haven't even mentioned the first help you need, and now you're asking for a second one."Asking Felix for assistance was the only way I could come up with a plan, as he was always smart and committed.Hearing his calm response made my heart fill with hope. This was just the beginning: asking for his help. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It felt like a dream come
Chapter 21.Lucas Gambino's PovFury consumed me upon learning of Shirley's escape. It felt as though I had been deceived, but it was painfully clear that my loyal crew, especially Cleo, would never dare to play games with me. He simply wouldn't stoop to such levels.I could only blame myself for not being astute enough to anticipate her plans. The signs were all there, trying to guide me, but I foolishly ignored them.The self-blame intensified as I recalled the unsettling intuition I had when she made her request. It provided a clue, but I chose to ignore it, and now she has vanished into thin air.The rage within me was uncontrollable, evident in the fire that blazed in my eyes. I even contemplated dismissing everyone from the club, consumed by anger. However, the thought of losing money, something I hold so dear to heart and couldn't afford to lose, restrained me. The pain of Shirley's escape, taking my hard-earned cash with her, was already driving me insane. How could I bear los
Chapter 22.Shirley.I felt a surge of happiness as I easily got off the road. The relief it brought me was evident.I tried to relax and enjoy the ride, but the way the car was being driven was confusing. My heart started racing as I found the whole situation irritating. The vehicle was moving at an incredibly slow pace, almost as if a snail was driving it. It was frustratingly slow, even slower than if I were walking.I had a feeling that something was about to go wrong, but I couldn't predict what it could be. Despite being in the car, I suspected the driver's intentions. It seemed like he wanted to get me in trouble or had some unknown plans.I patiently observed him driving for a while, but then he turned on a loud music player that blasted songs into my ears. It was clear that he was completely absorbed in the music, humming and singing along."Slow and steady, that's how I want it!" he shouted cheerfully, nodding his head in excitement. This was not a leisurely drive or a pleas
Chapter 23Lucas Gambino's PovThere I was, seated in the living room as I critically looked into the documents before me. I could tell that I was in no way paying attention to them but had no choice. Business first!My stay at the strip club could only add up to my rage. I couldn't tell if I should get mad at myself over letting Shirley do as she had desired. There was no time for regrets, I certainly know that I will find her irrespective of where her hideout could be.Deep within me, I was burning in rage while I awaited a positive feedback from Fernández and the men hoping it doesn't happen that Shirley has successfully escaped. The update I patiently awaited was to be something I could take.I had put down the documents because they bored me. I needed to do something that could take away time without being bored, so I turned on the television and had my eyes fixed on it. Entertainment could possibly help me exercise some Patience.“What do you plan to do if you don't find her?” I
Chapter 24I stared at the men before, what deal could they be here to offer me? Judging a book by its cover was indeed a clear representation to the way I felt at the moment. Even the hobo on the street looks far more responsible than these ones. I could smell the stench of poverty and lower class on them.It seemed like they were messing around with me. I could tell it from their reactions and words. They could barely compose themselves, no value, and no ethics. I raised my eyelids and stared right at their faces, it better be something good. “What deal?” I inquired.They both looked at themselves and then laughed, they stood up and closed the space between us.“You've got to be kidding me” I muttered with a smirk on my face.It seems they are in for trouble. “You give us the money that bitch owes us and we let you be.”Was this a joke or something?Empty threats! I couldn't believe that they had followed me all the way into my apartment in order to challenge me and give threats.“A