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The Price of Protection
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2024-11-18 16:03:06Related chapters
The Crimson Trail of Death A Moment of Belonging
The morning sunlight gleamed through as my eyes jolted awake, welcoming the new day. Reminded of last night, I sighed. The contract and Adrian's words lingered in my mind."California?" I whispered to myself."You are awake?" A voice caught my attention as my eyes landed on Malisa standing at the doorstep. I had no idea how long she had been there. I watched her gently approach, her ever-wavering smile painted on her face."Oh, morning, Aunt Malisa," I said, managing to sit up on the bed.Her eyebrows arched, eyes widening. "Aunt?" She uttered."Yeah... is it okay if I call you Aunt?" I blurted, but didn't hope to take back my words. Arriving here, her smile and kindness somehow sparked a different mood around me. It was a comforting side that always reminded me of my mother and her love. She was one who looked at me with so much care even though knowing me for just a day."I surely don't mind, dear. You can call me whatever you want, and I shall accept it wholeheartedly," she said wi
The Crimson Trail of Death Bruises and Silk
"Have you gotten her size?" Adrian's voice cut through the air."I was about to—" Aunt Malisa began, but before she could finish her words, he interrupted."Don't tell me you haven't taken her size." His voice was sharp, and I watched as a startled, pale look washed over Aunt Malisa's face.I wanted to cut in. This was all wrong—his tone towards her, every single bit of it."Gazing upon the dress she is wearing, I know the perfect size fit for the rest of her dresses, boss," she said, her voice trembling."Then why are you still here and not getting them?" Adrian snapped."I'm sorry, I will go get them," Aunt Malisa uttered with a downcast gaze as I watched her leave the room.Adrian remained standing at the side, his eyebrow furrowed as his eyes landed on me."And why are you still seated there? Shouldn't you be getting dressed up?" he sneered, his eyes narrowing as they remained fixed on me, as though they waited for me to succumb to his words and give in to his order."I can't poss
The Crimson Trail of Death A Room Full of Strangers
I found myself seated on the bed as the three makeup artists stood around me. One of them kept gazing at me, scanning my face every second, which only made me feel uncomfortable."I think a light makeup look will do," I heard the guy, or whatever he was, utter, his hands placed at his jaw, while he addressed the other two girls, who took notice of me.I just wanted all of this to be over with, every single bit of it. My only focus was on finding Aunt Malisa and checking if she was alright. His attitude and behaviour were something I couldn't quite understand. The last thing I wanted was to be bound under the grasp of another man, to be seen as nothing in their eyes and tossed aside like nothing, but I thought things would be different after I signed the contract. Yet, I couldn't shake off the feeling of his actions today, which left me wandering in my thoughts of who he truly was, a hope lingering that the rumors proved false and it was all just gossip.Now that I was trapped with him
The Crimson Trail of Death A New Destination
I watched as he walked further, taking a seat and opening up his food. His eyes landed on mine, still fixed on him, and I quickly retracted them, returning my gaze to my food."You must be Sierra, right?" he asked, causing my gaze to raise and meet his. It seemed he knew me; maybe Adrian had told him. But wait did he also tell him about the contract agreement and my current role here?"Yeah, I am," I managed to whisper, my voice barely audible."Hey! Be careful with that!" Adrian yelled at one of the maids who was holding a painting. His snap almost caused me to jolt in an instant."Just let it be, Adrian. We are in the dining room. And please learn not to shout at one of those maids again," the man uttered. "Alright, Uncle Gavin," Adrian responded as he continued his food, leaving a slight stun on me. I guessed he was the only one Adrian stood to listen to, maybe..."Sorry about that, dear," Uncle Gavin said, his eyes meeting mine."And why are you apologizing to her? I mean, shouldn
The Crimson Trail of Death A Vow to the Past
"Did you forget something, dear?" A voice caught my attention as I turned to witness Uncle Gavin waiting for me."No," I replied, walking out of the mansion. I was led to one of the cars, entering the back seat as I watched a man enter the front seat, whom I presumed was the Driver."Good day, ma'am," he uttered with a nod. I had little idea of his words; my eyes were still fixed on the mansion, hoping I could just catch a glimpse of Aunt Malisa.The driver started the engine as he drove off. Adrian and his uncle were seated in another car, which the driver maintained trailing.My eyes remained fixed outside the car windows, gazing at the city as the car moved through the streets. My eyes caught sight of my old apartment, and a reminder of my mom echoed through my thoughts, a recollection of a time before she had fallen ill when she would come out, turn to me with a smile. We would come out when the sun cast down with the stars bright and shining.I remember when I made a promise to h
The Crimson Trail of Death Caught in the Crossfire
Adrian stepped out of the car, calm and unbothered, as though the armed men were no more alarming than a doorman. Of course, this was his world, where violence was normal.The driver opened my door, jolting me back to reality. "Ma'am?" he prompted. My legs felt heavy and reluctant to move, but I forced myself to step out. The air felt thicker here, the tension palpable.The men didn't say a word, but I felt their eyes on me, assessing, judging. I wrapped my arms around myself instinctively, trying to shield against their scrutiny. My heart was racing, but I kept my face neutral, my head held high.I had to play the part, no matter how badly I wanted to turn and run.As I walked inside, entering the mansion and taking in the interior of the surrounding, which evolved with more men, a discomforting feeling washed over me.My feet screeched a bit as I almost stumbled, only to feel a steady hand helping me back to my feet. My eyes landed on Adrian."Watch your feet next time, and when we
The Crimson Trail of Death The Rift Between Brothers
[Demonic POV]I left a half-bow, as my legs came to a halt near Uncle Marc. I had no idea why he had called me up here. I had many things to fix, but he had interrupted them, informing me that I had to be here."Welcome, Demonic. I have been expecting your arrival," he uttered. I felt him leave a pat on my back. I raised my gaze afterward as my eyes landed on Adrian standing on the other side. His eyes darkened as they narrowed, staying glued at me.Really, I had little idea of why he held so many grudges against me. I had never seen him as an enemy or so. My only aim was to carry out my family's legacies and ensure some things were put in place. I had always wanted to protect him, ensure he was alright, and so I trained so hard. But yet, it all ended up as a waste, as I received his hatred instead.But yet, I hoped that one day, just one day, that anger would vanish, and he would understand that all my actions, which I had made lately, were for his benefit and nothing else."I had to
The Crimson Trail of Death Trapped in Deception
[Sierra POV]Adrian led me to one of the rooms, helping me sit on the bed.Dominic was here. Why? My mind raced, spiraling with questions. Shouldn’t he be back in the city? The entire reason I agreed to this trip was to escape his reach, but now he was here too.And yet, I couldn’t shake the nagging thought—if Dominic recognized me, I should already be dead. Did he not know who I was, or was he playing some twisted game?“What are you thinking?” Adrian’s voice pulled me from my thoughts. His eyes scanned the passage behind him before narrowing on me, dark and sharp.“What was that downstairs? Didn’t I tell you not to try anything?” he said, his tone dripping with frustration.“What do you mean? Is it my fault I stumbled?” I snapped, watching him scoff. "And why were you trembling anyway? It must be new for you, right? Well, you better get used to it and fast also 'cause now it seems we are going to be stuck here for a while." He said, standing up as he turned to leave."This wasn't pa
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The Crimson Trail of Death The Business of Power
[Adrian's POV]I stepped out of the mansion, my eyes landing on Damien, who was still trying to aim a shot at the target. It seemed he also loved hunting, just like Dominic. However, I found the real hunt and fun game when I was dealing with my enemies or traitors; anything else just seemed boring.My mind still lingered on Uncle Marc's last words—the entire De Santos family. Why was he making everything more complicated than it already was? All I wanted was my dad's property, so I saw no other choice in this contract. Yet, it seemed things just got more complicated for me.I don't know what Uncle Marc sees in Dominic that he doesn't see in me. Staying in my mansion, tarnishing the family name? Why doesn't he understand that I also make my moves? Even though I was more interested in the business side of things than becoming an underworld lord, I never had those dreams. If it was power I needed, I don't need the title to instill fear in my enemies.I have achieved great heights in the b
The Crimson Trail of Death The Party Invitation
My eyes sprung open, and I gently rose from the bed, welcoming the morning rays that seemed to glow through the room. They served as a reminder of last night with Dominic's questioning.Even though he seemed not to recognize me, I couldn't deny the suspicion he harbored toward me. I just had to stay low and try not to attract any attention; only then could I assure my safety and prevent him from recognizing me.I made my way into the bathroom, splashing some water on my face before walking out, only to be hit with the realization that Adrian wasn't around last night. I was happy that I didn't have to share the room with him, but I couldn't help but question where he could be and what he was planning. He was slapped last night; I was sure he must still be quite furious, but I couldn't understand why. Why was he slapped by Marc instead? I just couldn't understand each and every one of them. Well, I shouldn't even be trying; I'm not part of their family in the first place, so why bother?
The Crimson Trail of Death Cornered
[Sierra's POV]Taking the dishes into the kitchen, I laid them down and leaned against the wall for a moment. I let out a sigh, thinking about what had occurred back at the dining table with Marc and Adrain. Really, was staying here such a good idea? These people stood by their names, their eyes and actions sending shivers down my spine. Even though the blow wasn't meant for me, I couldn't deny the fear that coursed through me with his footsteps growing nearer. And I had also bumped into Dominic. What if he had recognized me? I was really in a death trap, never expecting to be trapped with no way out like this. All I wanted was justice for my mother and to make them pay, not to be bound and trapped in another lie.I couldn't run away, nor could I say anything. It seemed I just had to act up, not showing much attention, at least until he was gone. Then I would plot my way and destroy him to the very inch. But for now, I just had to keep low and hidden, even though he was here too. All
The Crimson Trail of Death A Taste of Power
I returned to the mansion with Uncle Gavin by my side. My eyes immediately caught sight of Uncle Marc seated at the dining table. His eyes landed on me instantly."Good, you're here," he uttered."You called for me, Uncle Marc?" I said, giving a half bow."Yeah, you must be hungry." He questioned as I raised my gaze, thinking it was something important, but it was just about the food being ready.My gaze shifted to Adrian, who was already seated. I watched his presumed wife come out with some of the maids, bringing some food."Wait, she cooked?" I thought, my mind trying to make sense of what was taking place."Come, sit, Dominic. I had your brother's wife prepare lunch," Uncle Marc uttered.
The Crimson Trail of Death Hunting Shadows
[Dominic POV]"Release!" I uttered as the bird flew out of the cage, flying up into the sky. I reloaded my shotgun, aiming with my right eye. "And dead," I pulled the trigger; the loud sound echoed as the bird fell down. I retreated the gun.I've always found hunting quite fun and a way to train my aim even more. Since I needed some air anyway, I decided to head out to the courtyard, nestled at the edge of the forest, just beyond the mansion's backyard."I see you still haven't given up on your typical hunting," a voice caught my attention. My eyes landed on Uncle Gavin."Well, it's just an old habit I find quite enjoyable," I said, gesturing as Uncle Gavin approached me, taking up one of the guns laid there. "Why don't I give it a shot also?"He uttered, as another bird was released. He aimed at it, pulled the trigger, and scraped through the air, missing the bird. "Seems my old age is getting to me," he said, retracting the gun and dropping it back on the ground."I'm sure you still
The Crimson Trail of Death Trapped in Deception
[Sierra POV]Adrian led me to one of the rooms, helping me sit on the bed.Dominic was here. Why? My mind raced, spiraling with questions. Shouldn’t he be back in the city? The entire reason I agreed to this trip was to escape his reach, but now he was here too.And yet, I couldn’t shake the nagging thought—if Dominic recognized me, I should already be dead. Did he not know who I was, or was he playing some twisted game?“What are you thinking?” Adrian’s voice pulled me from my thoughts. His eyes scanned the passage behind him before narrowing on me, dark and sharp.“What was that downstairs? Didn’t I tell you not to try anything?” he said, his tone dripping with frustration.“What do you mean? Is it my fault I stumbled?” I snapped, watching him scoff. "And why were you trembling anyway? It must be new for you, right? Well, you better get used to it and fast also 'cause now it seems we are going to be stuck here for a while." He said, standing up as he turned to leave."This wasn't pa
The Crimson Trail of Death The Rift Between Brothers
[Demonic POV]I left a half-bow, as my legs came to a halt near Uncle Marc. I had no idea why he had called me up here. I had many things to fix, but he had interrupted them, informing me that I had to be here."Welcome, Demonic. I have been expecting your arrival," he uttered. I felt him leave a pat on my back. I raised my gaze afterward as my eyes landed on Adrian standing on the other side. His eyes darkened as they narrowed, staying glued at me.Really, I had little idea of why he held so many grudges against me. I had never seen him as an enemy or so. My only aim was to carry out my family's legacies and ensure some things were put in place. I had always wanted to protect him, ensure he was alright, and so I trained so hard. But yet, it all ended up as a waste, as I received his hatred instead.But yet, I hoped that one day, just one day, that anger would vanish, and he would understand that all my actions, which I had made lately, were for his benefit and nothing else."I had to
The Crimson Trail of Death Caught in the Crossfire
Adrian stepped out of the car, calm and unbothered, as though the armed men were no more alarming than a doorman. Of course, this was his world, where violence was normal.The driver opened my door, jolting me back to reality. "Ma'am?" he prompted. My legs felt heavy and reluctant to move, but I forced myself to step out. The air felt thicker here, the tension palpable.The men didn't say a word, but I felt their eyes on me, assessing, judging. I wrapped my arms around myself instinctively, trying to shield against their scrutiny. My heart was racing, but I kept my face neutral, my head held high.I had to play the part, no matter how badly I wanted to turn and run.As I walked inside, entering the mansion and taking in the interior of the surrounding, which evolved with more men, a discomforting feeling washed over me.My feet screeched a bit as I almost stumbled, only to feel a steady hand helping me back to my feet. My eyes landed on Adrian."Watch your feet next time, and when we
The Crimson Trail of Death A Vow to the Past
"Did you forget something, dear?" A voice caught my attention as I turned to witness Uncle Gavin waiting for me."No," I replied, walking out of the mansion. I was led to one of the cars, entering the back seat as I watched a man enter the front seat, whom I presumed was the Driver."Good day, ma'am," he uttered with a nod. I had little idea of his words; my eyes were still fixed on the mansion, hoping I could just catch a glimpse of Aunt Malisa.The driver started the engine as he drove off. Adrian and his uncle were seated in another car, which the driver maintained trailing.My eyes remained fixed outside the car windows, gazing at the city as the car moved through the streets. My eyes caught sight of my old apartment, and a reminder of my mom echoed through my thoughts, a recollection of a time before she had fallen ill when she would come out, turn to me with a smile. We would come out when the sun cast down with the stars bright and shining.I remember when I made a promise to h
