Share

Chapter 22

Penulis: Flicky
last update Terakhir Diperbarui: 2024-11-26 23:56:03

OCTAVIA'S POV

I rest my back against the door and I watched Nile walk away. My heart is heavy; I don't know what to feel. I have been used, I have been trampled on, I have been molested, I have been beaten, my hope has been dashed too many times, and now that I started to think I had a shot at happiness, it turns out it was all a lie. I walk quietly to the bathroom and turn on the shower.

Sitting in the bathtub, I pull my knees to my chest and let the warm water envelop me. The shower is on; the sound of the water cascading down is almost comforting, but it can’t drown out the storm inside my heart. Tears flow freely down my cheeks, mixing with the droplets that splash against my skin. It feels like a release, a way to let out all the pain I’ve been holding inside for so long.

I close my eyes and let the memories wash over me—each one a reminder of the times I’ve been hurt. The degradation I have had to go through, Philip, my father, who hurt me when he was supposed to keep me safe,
Lanjutkan membaca buku ini secara gratis
Pindai kode untuk mengunduh Aplikasi
Bab Terkunci

Bab terkait

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 23

    OCTAVIA'S POV As I stepped into the club, the pulsating music hit me like a wave, but my heart wasn’t in it. I glanced at Rose, who was already beaming with excitement, ready to dive into the night. “Come on, Octavia! Just a little fun!” she urged, tugging at my hand. I sighed, feeling the weight of my recent breakup hanging over me, but I let her pull me inside.The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and flashing lights. Rose darted to the bar, her energy infectious. “Two mojitos, please!” she called out to the bartender, her voice rising above the music. I stood back, still feeling out of place, my arms crossed defensively. “Are you sure about this?” I asked, trying to keep my tone light, even as doubt crept in. “Trust me, you’ll love it! Just wait until you taste this,” she replied, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. The bartender slid two tall glasses filled with vibrant liquid garnished with fresh mint and lime. As Rose handed me one, I took a tentative sip. The r

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-11-28
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 24

    OCTAVIA'S POV "Are you okay?" Rose turned to me and asked. I nodded my head in response; I was a bit shaken by what happened, but the intervention of this mystery guy completely interrupted the panic attack I almost had. I shake my head again to expel the thoughts trying to creep in. "Let's go get another round of drinks; this whole episode has made me thirsty," Rose said, grabbing my hand and pulling me towards the bar. As we got to the bar, Rose flashed a playful smile and leaned in closer to the bartender, giving him a flirtatious wink. "Hey there, handsome! Can we get two more of those fruity cocktails?" she asked, her tone light and teasing.The bartender raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying the attention. "Only if you promise to keep dancing like that," he replied with a smirk. "What’s your secret? I need to know how to keep the crowd moving."Rose laughed, her eyes sparkling. "Just a little rhythm and a lot of fun! But I think your drinks have something to do with it," she sa

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-11-29
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 25

    OCTAVIA'S POV I opened the door humming to myself. I woke up feeling rather energetic this morning and decided to give my house a deep cleaning. I had been working all morning, scrubbing the kitchen floors and cabinets, washing the bathroom, changing my curtains, and rearranging my wardrobe. My house looks as clean as ever. I disposed of the trash, and my hand and I waited for the elevator doors to open, and I walked inside, still singing to myself as I pressed the button for my floor. When a hand suddenly appeared in between the doors as it was closing, the door opened, revealing the last person I would imagine seeing here. He looked up and saw me, his striking green eyes still taking me aback like last time. I see the recognition click in his eyes. As he stepped into the elevator, I felt my heart race; he leaned against the wall looking at me, that cocky grin plastered on his face. He looked like he owned the place, and I lowkey regretted standing leaving that night. "Well, well,

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-11-30
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 26

    ZION’S POV I leaned against the wall of my new apartment; the movers had brought in all the furniture, but there were still lots of boxes left to unpack. I am still trying to wrap my head around the fact that Octavia lived next door. I was shocked when I first saw her; I honestly thought I’d never see her again after she literally ran away from me at the club. The mix of disbelief and excitement hit me hard.I couldn't help but think back to when we ate together this afternoon. We clicked instantly, sharing jokes and laughter. Octavia has this incredible sense of humor that makes everything feel so easy and fun, and she makes it so easy to tease her. I love how she can make me laugh, even when I’m trying to play it cool. And let’s be real, she's incredibly attractive. The way her eyes light up when she laughs is something I could get lost in.There’s this tension between us that I can’t ignore. I feel drawn to her, and it doesn't help that she is so attractive. Her hair is so full an

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-11-30
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 27

    OCTAVIA'S POV I turn in my bed, unable to sleep; the noise of bodies slapping fills the air; he is at it again. This guy Zion is such bad news. I really thought he was a reasonable person. Even since he moved to the apartment next to me, it's almost always noisy. It is like he throws a party every fucking night. He plays music so loudly every time he is around and late into the night, and that is like the least of it. I never knew that the walls of this apartment were so thin because I can hear almost everything that happens in his house, and it doesn't help that he makes no effort to tone it down. I punched the wall a few times to let them know that noise is disturbing me. It seems like his bedroom is on the opposite side of the wall from mine, and saying he had an adventurous sex life is an understatement. "Uhh! Yes, baby!" I hear the sound of his flavor of the night moaning. He could have at least put on some music as he does normally to protect my ears from this. Disgusted, irri

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-01
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 28

    OCTAVIA'S POVThe cold air bit at my skin as I hurried through the dimly lit streets, my breath puffing out in frantic clouds. I clutched my phone in one hand, the other gripping the strap of my bag tightly. The call had been brief but alarming. Why am I the only person they could call? If it is serious, how will I be able to reach out to his family? And really, that is the last thing I want to do. I never wanted to be a homewrecker. I can't help but hate Nile a little for putting me in this situation. Despite everything that had transpired between us, a part of me still cared deeply for Nile. He is the reason I was able to get out of the darkest part of my life; without him, I would still be that stripper that anyone could touch anyhow at the casino. I had already given up on running away and life in general till he came into the picture. As much as I am hurt by him keeping his marriage from him, I could never hate him, and I will always be grateful for him. The sliding doors of th

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-03
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 29

    ZION'S POVThe sun was barely peeking over the horizon as I woke up this morning. My apartment is a cluttered mess of camera equipment, scattered notes, and empty alcohol bottles from last night. With a yawn I get out of bed and walk to the bathroom. The girl that spent the night at my apartment has most likely left. I prefer it that way, really; I don't like the expectations I wake up to and the awkwardness when a girl spends the night at my apartment and refuses to leave. I grabbed my favorite camera and headed out the door, locking it behind me.I made my usual stop at the coffee shop on the corner. I found out not long after I started living here that Octavia owns it; this is her friend. The barista, Lily, greeted me with a warm smile as I approached the counter."Morning, Zion. The usual?" She asked, already reaching for a cup."You know me too well," I replied, leaning against the counter

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-04
  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 30

    Zion's POV The pulsing bass of James's party reverberated through the walls as I entered the house. Normally, this kind of scene would have me hyped up and ready to dive into the chaos. Tonight, though, I felt like an observer, detached from the frenzy around me.I scanned the room, spotting familiar faces and exchanging half-hearted greetings. An old flame, Sarah, caught my eye, but the spark I'd once felt wasn't there. She gave me a playful wink, and I smiled back, but my heart wasn't in it. What was wrong with me?As I made my way to the kitchen for a drink, I spotted James. He waved me over, a broad grin on his face. "Zion! Glad you could make it, man.""Wouldn't miss it," I replied, trying to match his enthusiasm.He handed me a beer, eyeing me curiously. "You okay? You seem... off."I shrugged, taking a sip. "Just one of those days, I guess."James nodded knowingly, but I doubt he has an idea of what I am talking about. "Well, if anyone can snap out of it, it's you. Just enjoy

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-05

Bab terbaru

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 153

    Thomas Storm was not only building my dream VIP lounge, he was also building a relationship with me. I wasn’t quite sure what attracted him to me, but he asked me out on a date the second time we met. He was a much older man, in his forties, married once. It seemed I had a thing with older men. But he was sweet and paid me full attention. He was nothing like Liam, who was still stalking me. I alighted from the car and took in the beauty of the house that stood before me. Just a week ago, Thomas had opened up to me that he was in fact the CEO of Midas Company. I was upset with him for only twenty minutes, which was how long it took for him to explain to me why he did what he did.Today, I was supposed to meet his family. I was nervous but he stood beside me with a reassuring smile that made my nerves calm.‘’My family don't bite,’’ he said, taking my arm in his as we walked into the house. ‘’My mother has heard so much about you. She really cannot wait to meet you.’’I nodde

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 152

    I reached out for a napkin from a server and stretched it towards her. ‘’This might not help much, but it can reduce the wetness.’’She raised her head, looking at me with her doe eyes a second more than necessary. ‘’Thank you, Zion,’’ she said. ‘’But I may need to change this. Can you point me to the ladies?’’‘’Of course.’’We continued to walk arm in arm into the hall. I could see my father sitting by the fireplace and eating some barbecue with the ‘’men’’. Nike was standing at a corner talking to his wife, Miranda. He saw us approaching then and he watched us with curiosity.‘’She spilled her drink,’’ I said to both of them. The napkin was sitting on her chest, covering the ugly red mark on her beautiful white gown.‘’Oh my God!’’ Miranda exclaimed. ‘’I’m so sorry about that. Your beautiful dress is ruined.’’She smiled awkwardly, tugging at my arms but I ignored it. Nile was watching her with a new interest.‘’’The ladies is just on the first floor, by your right. I’ll b

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 151

    ‘’You are still in bed, Zion?’’I opened my eyes slowly and looked at the disapproving look on Nile’s face. I rubbed my eyes and rolled to the side. ‘’Can’t I sleep in peace?’’ I grumbled. I had partied the night before and my body was still trying to recover from all of the fatigue.‘’No,’’ he said, walking in and drawing the blinds away. It was almost dark outside. I glance at the clock. Past 6.‘’The party doesn’t start until 8, Nile. I can sleep for another hour,’’ I said, pulling the duvet over my chest. I was interested in any parties my brother was organising, especially a ‘Family reunion.’‘’We are hosting, Zion. I need you out of bed,’’ he said and finally walked out of the room.I laid still on the bed for minutes, staring at the ceiling. I pulled myself up into a sitting position and felt nauseous. Beside me, Sophia was still sleeping deeply. I pushed the covers off and my feet hit the cold tile. The bedside rug had been ruined and it was threadbare in some places

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 150

    I tossed in bed for hours. I had barely slept for a few minutes when I was woken up by a nightmare. I stared at the ceiling, clutching my arms and reminding myself that it was a dream. I was safe at home in Palmero. The clock ticked slowly but i could not return to sleep anymore. Thoughts of the men brutally assaulting me played in my head nonstop, despite all my attempts to block them. The screams of those men as Dmitir fired lethal bullets into their heads added only to my torment. I turned to my side and twisted my finger into a fist, grimacing. I laid there for hours, my eyes and mind awake, but my body tired. Finally, I got up and strolled out of the room in my night wear alone. The house was silent and the corridors were dark. I took two flights of stairs until i arrived on the first floor. Then I walked to one of the rooms. Without hesitation, i turned on the handle and opened the door. He always left his door unlocked.He opened his eyes and reached for the light swi

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 149

    I met Rory on the way. I wished I had not. I just wanted to return to my room, to bury my head in my pillow. Dad had not been able to hide his disappointment. I could see it all over his face even though he said nothing. He was going to get revenge for what had been done to Bree, and he would be killed and my life would be in ruins. I thought of the prophecy that man had said about my past and I shivered as I walked down the corridor.‘’Hey, Raven,’’ she said, leaning on the wall and clutching at her loose robe.‘’I can’t deal with this right now,’’ I said, walking past her.She held my hand. ‘’We’ve been together before we met, raven. I didn’t go behind your back.’’I pulled my hand away. ‘’Stay away from my father,’’ I said and walked away.It felt like ages since I left on this trip to Russia. So many things had gone wrong in just a few days. I had lost the respect I had just earned and I had lost a friend too. I pushed the door open and flung myself on the bed. Strange

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 148

    The flight back to Italy was quiet, but there was a storm brewing in our minds. I couldn’t look at Bree without being consumed by guilt. I had promised to watch over her, and I had failed woefully. The mission had failed also, and I was at the verge of setting both families into war. How would I face my father and tell him that the mission had failed? How could I explain it without mentioning what happened to Bree?Byron was standing in front of the mansion, anticipating our arrival. I looked at the large smile plastered on his face as our car parked and I felt my heart brea. He was healing well and the bandage over his shoulder had been removed. I was responsible for that too. I looked at Bree.‘’Bree?’’She raised her eyes to meet mine. ‘’Don’t tell anyone yet, please,’’ i said, feeling my voice crack with guilt. She nodded. I touched her hand and rubbed it gently. I was going to make the Bravta guys pay for what they had done to Bree, and the humiliation I had faced..

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 147

    It was almost 8pm when Dimitri arrived at the hotel. This time, the look on his face was different. It was a sullen look and I was almost too afraid to ask what their search had yielded. They had found Bree, I could tell.‘’We found her,’’ he said, walking into the room and reaching for a bottle of water on the fridge which he emptied. My stomach was in knots. He let out a deep sigh as he dropped the empty bottle on the table. ‘’There was some mix up,’’ he continued. ‘’She was mistakenly taken by some of our men.’’I clenched my teeth. Mistakenly? They were going to pay with their lives if anything happened to Bree. ‘’But we were able to find her.’’ He turned to the man beside him and barked some orders. ‘’She is here with us.’’The door opened and closed as the man stepped out. Few seconds later, I saw Bree being rolled in on a chair. She was in a clean dress and her hair was packed up nicely, but I could see the bruises on her skin and the pain and exhaustion in her ey

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 146

    My worst fears were beginning to happen. I realised now that saying I had gone to get food was such a bad story. What kind of bodyguard left their ward for two hours in search of food in a strange city?‘’Huh?’’ he asked again, raising his brows. He looked furious. ‘’Is this a plan to destroy whatever alliance we may want with da Vinci? Who are you working with?’’The questions came out in a flurry of words and I was surprised to see the angle with which he was viewing the whole affair. He thought this was a mission to sabotage, that I had planned the kidnap of Bree. I wasn't sure if it was a relief or not.‘’And why did you wait so long before you informed us?’’He stood erect and began to pace. Midway, he turned towards me and a heavy slap landed on my face. It stung to my feet and my hands flew to my face in reaction.‘’When I ask you a question, you respond. Do you understand?’’I was outnumbered. There was no way I could react. I thought of the prosthetic nose. If it

  • Wanted By The Mafia Lord; Attracted to the Bad Boy Nextdoor    Chapter 145

    Her phone was unreachable. I paced back and forth in front of the lobby, anger and worry boiling within me. Where could she have run off to without telling me? Why was her phone unreachable? I glanced at my watch. It was just fifteen minutes to the wedding. If we don’t show up, there would be questions. If I showed up without her, there would be questions too.I rubbed off some dust on my forearm as I approached the front desk again.‘’I’m unable to reach her,’’ I said in English. ‘’Can I check the CCTV camera? Maybe someone picked her or something. We don’t know anyone here.’’The woman looked at me blankly and for a second I thought she probably did not understand English. ‘’Give me a moment,’’ she replied in English with a heavy accent.I drummed on the counter as I watched her walk to one of her colleagues. They spoke for a while and I could see them looking at me and shaking their heads. She made a sign that she was going to consult someone else and she disappeared d

Jelajahi dan baca novel bagus secara gratis
Akses gratis ke berbagai novel bagus di aplikasi GoodNovel. Unduh buku yang kamu suka dan baca di mana saja & kapan saja.
Baca buku gratis di Aplikasi
Pindai kode untuk membaca di Aplikasi
DMCA.com Protection Status