《barely attached by fate》 ||RUTH|| As I stood in front of my dresser, carefully applying lipstick, I stole a glance at the wall clock. Its hands pointed precisely to 11:30 p.m. Time seemed to be slipping away, but I remained focused on perfecting my appearance. Surveying myself in the mirror, I couldn''t help but notice a change. There was a newfound air of sophistication, a subtle refinement that seemed to emanate from within. My lipstick glided smoothly over my lips, adding a final touch of allure to my ensemble. I stepped back, taking in the reflection before me. There was a confidence in my gaze, a sense of self-assuredness that hadn''t been there before. With a hint of satisfaction, I thought to myself, "I look way more expensive than last time." I kiss my reflection while wearing a long, tight red dress that fits my waist in the most flattering way possible. The dress has a deep v-cut; it is lifted at the hip from one side, and a thin thread keeps it up. I paired the dress with black high-heeled boots. I open the drawer, take out my most prized possession, a jewelled dagger, put it in my purse, and head out of my apartment. As I stepped out into the cool night air, a sense of relief washed over me like a soothing balm. The weight of the recent events still lingered, but for now, I allowed myself a moment of respite. My eyes scanned the dimly lit street until they landed on Lucas Rodriguez, a beacon of familiarity in the chaos of the night. With his easy smile and charming demeanour, he had a way of making even the darkest of days seem a little brighter. "Hey there, eye candy," I said to him with a playful smirk, using the nickname I had given upon him long ago. It was the proof of his undeniable charm and magnetic presence, qualities that never failed to lift my spirits. Lucas''s laughter filled the air, a melodious sound that warmed my heart. "Well, if it isn''t my favourite troublemaker," he replied, his voice tinged with amusement. Despite the gravity of the situation, he always managed to find a way to lighten the mood. I fell into step beside him, the rhythm of our footsteps echoing in harmony as we walked. At that moment, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a rare respite from the chaos that had consumed my life. Lucas was one of the few people in my chaotic world, a steadfast presence that I could always rely on. Whether it was a shoulder to lean on or a listening ear, he was always there for me, unwavering in his support ''''You look ravishing,'''' he said as he leaned against his car. ''''I know, babe, don''t start flirting just yet; we''re getting late,'''' I said as I winked at him. '''' Ugh, fine, get in, he said as he rolled his eyes. ''''Do you know anything about that bastard''s life?'''' I asked as I sat in the passenger seat. ''''Well, he''s a multimillionaire, auctions girls for beautiful prices per night, and owns several clubs around here; in short, he''s an asshole with a lot of money.'''' He smiled at me and asked, ''''Are you sure you can do this?'''' ''''Of course, it''s nothing new; I just need your lead, and I''m sure he won''t be able to resist this,'''' I laughed. ''''Haha, that''s true; no one can resist,'''' he said as he drove faster. ''''Yet you''re still driving and not all over me,'' I mocked. ''''You know I''m not going to make a move on you,'''' he said, looking over at my side. That was true; he was the only man in the world who would keep his hands to himself, respect me, and keep our friendship as a friendship. Lucas is undeniably attractive, with his black curly hair, blue eyes, and strong body; who wouldn''t fall for that? Well, I did not fall for him that way. Sure, I find him hot as fuck, but he is more of a brother than a boyfriend. I simply smiled at him and took a deep breath when we arrived at the club to meet our next target. Silas Victor Lucas went inside first, and I waited about twenty minutes before entering. I put a cigarette on my lips and took a long puff. I scoff at myself and go inside with a wide grin. The security guard checks my ID, and I walk inside feeling powerful and confident. The air is filled with the smell of cigarettes, drugs, and money. Perfect As I walked through the dimly lit pub, I couldn''t help but notice a group of men nodding across the room. There was electricity in the air, an unsaid understanding that hung between us like a quiet agreement. In that moment, I understood exactly what was required of me. With a flick of my wrist, I dropped my half-smoked cigarette, allowing it to fall to the floor with a muffled hiss. It was a modest but significant gesture, indicating my readiness to participate in whatever game was being secretly choreographed. I sit on the stool. A shot of Martini Extra Gin, I say. "Take it slow, baby girl; you are here for a purpose, not a night out," the bartender says to me. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. ''''I need to get in the mood,'' I told the bartender; it was Lucas acting as the bartender. ''''Of course, you do; you remember the plan, right?'''' he asked as he poured me a drink. ''''There''s nothing this girl can''t remember; simple seduction is simple, and where is my baby boy anyway?'''' I stated that I was leaning forward. ''''The man is in his forties; I don''t know much about baby boy Ruth; it''s eight o''clock,'''' he chuckled, setting my drink down. I gulped my drink and smirked at Lucas before looking over at that man''s side, where, to my surprise, he was already looking at me. That man was playing a game of poker; there were bodyguards around him and many girls on that table all over him. I turn around to face him, and he raises his glass of beer in a toast, while I ruffle my hair and raise my empty glass in unison. One of his bodyguards came towards me and said, "Miss, our boss is calling you". He whispered in my ear. "Why doesn''t he gather up the guts and ask me himself?'''' I asked the bodyguard with a sweet smile. '''' That is for you to discover on your own, he sneered at me. ''''Oh, I will. I chuckled at him and walked towards him. That man shoves the girls off him and looks at me. He licked his lips and looked at me from head to toe. Disgusting. He put a cigar in his mouth, and now every man''s eyes were on me. I personally enjoyed the attention. I sat next to my target, and he put my leg over his. I would have stabbed him the second he touched me, but I have to control myself for exactly fifteen minutes. What a beauty, he said as he touched my face with his hand. I chuckled and faked a smile. I can say the same'''', I said as I took the cigar out of his mouth and smoked it. The other men around the table groaned and cursed each other as he smirked and threw three ace cards to win the game. ''''Congratulations, Tiger,'''' I said, as he stood up and gently dragged me away from that table. ''''Thank you, doll; you''re a charm, he said as he pinned me to a wall. He cupped my face in his hands and took a step back to check me out again. '''' Well, why don''t we go celebrate?'''' I took a quick glance at Lucas, who pointed at his watch. I knew it was getting late. ''''I would love to; where would my doll like to go? he said, taking a step closer. Oh, just follow me. I brushed my hands on his chest and walked away from him, making my way to the exit. Oh, an alley; you like to play in the streets, huh?'''' he yelled and laughed as he went outside. Oh, I love it in the streets; it gives the perfect vibe for everything. I winked at him. The man''s eyes widened in shock as he realized his grave mistake. His grip on my hand faltered, and I seized the opportunity to retaliate. With swift precision, I drew forth the concealed blade from within the folds of my clothing, its cold steel glinting ominously in the dim light of the room. He recoiled as the tip of the knife grazed his stomach, a sudden fear flickering across his face like a fleeting shadow. His actions had consequences, and now he was about to face them head-on. "Didn''t anyone tell you not to touch a woman without her consent?" I hissed, my voice laced with a righteous fury that burned hotter than the flames of vengeance. Each word dripped with the weight of centuries of oppression, a reminder that my body was not his to command. As the sharp edge of the blade pressed against his flesh, a shiver ran down his spine, a premonition of the pain to come. But it was too late for remorse, too late for redemption. He had crossed a line that could never be uncrossed, and now he would pay the price. He groaned. "Oh, you little bitch!'''' he exclaimed, taking out his gun, but I kicked him in the wound, causing him to fall. It took his gun to shoot six bullets into his body. I shrugged and texted Lucas one word: done. I walked out of the alley and took an Uber back to my apartment. My hands were still covered in that man''s blood, and it drove chills down my spine just to think about that scene again. I looked out the window and rubbed my finger lightly on the scar on my lips. My body started to shake slightly, and somehow the night seemed even darker than it did before. You must be thinking about how I ended up as an assassin in the first place. Well, let''s travel back in time. Five YEARS ago I was coming home from high school i was about 17 I believe and; it was mid-September, I had just gotten done with my exams and had a terrible day. My body was shivering, and I had no words for how to tell my parents what I had just experienced. I rang the bell, but no one opened the door. Maybe they weren''t opening the door because they got a call from the principal. God, I was about to tell them anyway. I knocked several times at the door, but no one answered. I called them many times and texted Mom that I was sorry for dropping out, but she didn''t respond. A tall man in a formal black suit opened the door. I came inside and saw my parent''s bodies on the floor. Blood was everywhere on the floor My parents lay lifeless on the floor, their bodies contorted in unnatural angles, surrounded by a pool of crimson. Blood stained the pristine tiles, a stark contrast to the warmth and laughter that once filled our home. Tears welled up in my eyes, blurring my vision as I stumbled forward. My heart pounded in my chest, each beat a painful reminder of the nightmare unfolding before me. I fell to my knees beside my beloved parents, reaching out to touch their cold, lifeless hands. A voice, dripping with malice, shattered the silence like a jagged shard of glass. I looked up to see the figure of a man, cloaked in darkness, standing in the corner of the room. His eyes bore into mine with a chilling intensity, sending a shiver down my spine. "You must be unaware of what happened, darling, so allow me to explain," he sneered, his words dripping with venom. I recoiled in horror, bile rising in my throat at the sight of the monster who had taken everything from me. "You are a monster!" I cried out, my voice raw with anguish. "For what reason did you murder my parents?" The man''s laughter echoed in the room, a cruel symphony of madness and despair. "Do you think I''m a monster?" he spat, his words like poison on his tongue. "What do you think of your parents, who took my money and squandered it?" The realisation hit me like a physical blow, knocking the air out of my lungs. I strained to absorb the gravity of his words, the betrayal burning like a fire inside my chest. "And now you''re going to pay their debt," he declared, his voice laced with cold determination. I staggered to my feet, my mind reeling with disbelief. Before I could protest, two shadowy figures emerged from the darkness, their hands like vices around my arms. I screamed and struggled against their grasp, but it was futile. As they dragged me away, the last thing I saw was our home engulfed in flames, the flames dancing like demons in the night. My parents'' bodies were consumed by the inferno, their cries of agony echoing in my ears. A part of me died that day, consumed by the flames of hatred and despair. But amidst the ashes of my shattered world, a spark of defiance ignited within me, a determination to seek justice for the ones I loved and lost. . || DYLAN|| I stand by the window, observing the bustling streets below. Despite the commotion outside, the real conflict simmers within, as an investor seated across from me continues to challenge my decisions with thinly veiled disrespect. I remain composed, refusing to dignify his provocation with an immediate response. Instead, I maintain a stoic silence, allowing him to exhaust his tirade. His words hang in the air like a heavy fog, but I refuse to let them cloud my judgment. As he finishes his diatribe, I turn slowly to face him, the weight of my gaze piercing through the tension in the room. Without a word, I reach for the gun resting on the table, its cool metal sending a shiver down my spine as I place it delicately before me. "I just hate people who get too cocky for their own good," I announce calmly, my voice carrying an underlying edge of authority. With a measured stride, I approach him, each step echoing with a quiet intensity. I meet his gaze unflinchingly, my words cutting through the silence like a knife. "Well, Mr. Theodor, I have a lot of respect for you and your company," I begin, my tone laced with a hint of irony. "But I think you''re forgetting that this is my company, and I believe I can handle it on my own." A wry smile plays across my lips as I continue, "Thank you for your concern, but I heard that your company''s share has dropped by 70% this year. So why don''t you focus on yourself instead of giving others advice?" The room falls silent once more, the weight of my words hanging in the air like a damning verdict. As I stand over his limp body, a sense of satisfaction washes over me, a reminder of the power that lies in asserting oneself in the face of adversity. The tension in the room was palpable, thick enough to slice through with a knife. As I stood my ground, firm in my resolve to assert myself and protect my company, I was keenly aware of the potential repercussions of my actions. But at that moment, I couldn''t afford to back down. "Meetings over," I declared with steely determination, cutting through the uneasy silence that had settled over the room. The reactions varied, ranging from pale faces to simmering anger, but I remained resolute as I ushered everyone out, closing the door behind them. As the weight of the confrontation lifted, my secretary approached me, a mixture of concern and reproach in his expression. "Not cool, man," he remarked, his tone tinged with disapproval. I bristled at his comment, my patience wearing thin. "What did you expect me to do, sit there and endure that nonsense?" I retorted, my frustration bubbling to the surface. He poured two glasses of beer, passing one to me as he spoke, his voice tinged with caution. "Do you really think resorting to violence was the best course of action?" I took a sip of the beer, the bitterness of the drink mirroring the bitter taste of my decisions. "It made me feel better," I admitted, a hint of remorse creeping into my voice. "Besides, it''s been a while since I''ve had to... handle things like that, James." He nodded understandingly, but his next words were filled with wisdom. "That may be true, but it''s important to keep your business dealings separate from your... other affairs," he advised, his gaze steady as he emphasized the need for discretion. As I mulled over his words, I couldn''t help but acknowledge the truth in his counsel. In the cutthroat world of business, maintaining a careful balance between power and restraint was essential, even if it meant keeping certain aspects of myself hidden in the shadows. ''''Hmm, yeah, I''ll work on that,'''' I said, gulping my drink. All right, I''ll see you later,'''' I said as I walked outside and patted him on the shoulder. As I navigated through the city streets, the ringing of my phone broke the silence of the car interior. I glanced at the caller ID and saw that it was my girlfriend. "Hey, what''s up, babe?" I answered, mustering up what I hoped sounded like genuine interest. "Hey, boo, nothing special, just shopping," she replied casually. I couldn''t help but roll my eyes internally. It seemed like her definition of "nothing special" often involved spending a considerable amount of money. "Oh, that''s great; do you need anything?" I asked, already knowing the answer but feeling obligated to inquire nonetheless. "Hehe, you already know, babe, my credit card isn''t working; can I please have your PIN?" she pouted, the request dripping with expectation. "5875," I replied curtly, the warmth in my tone replaced by a chill. Without so much as a word of thanks, she abruptly ended the call. As I returned my phone to my pocket, a sense of frustration washed over me. Why was I even in this relationship? Sure, there were moments of comfort and companionship, but they were often overshadowed by her relentless demands and lack of gratitude. I couldn''t help but question the value of it all. Was this relationship truly worth it, or was I merely clinging to familiarity out of habit? As I drove on, the weight of uncertainty settled in, leaving me to ponder the nature of my connection with her and whether it was time to reassess its worth. But you know what? I will play my part in being a good boyfriend, because why not? It''s not my fault that she is a gold digger, so I will go meet up with her. I kind of do need to see her now. I checked my phone, which had the item she purchased, and where it was from, and then I drove to that location. The sight before me was like a punch to the gut. My girlfriend, sitting in the cafe, her laughter mingling with the sounds of the bustling surroundings, but it was the presence of the boy beside her that sent a shiver down my spine. I tried to quell the rising feeling of dread in my chest, reminding myself to reserve judgment until I had all the facts. Maybe they were just friends, catching up over a casual coffee. But as I stepped closer, my hopes were dashed in an instant. The intimate gesture between them spoke volumes, his lips brushing against her jaw as she giggled in response. It was a scene that left no room for doubt, no chance for denial. This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. My heart sank like a stone in my chest as reality crashed down upon me. This wasn''t merely a friendly hangout; it was a betrayal, a betrayal of trust, and of the love I had foolishly invested in her. At that moment, my eyes were opened to the harsh truth. She wasn''t just a gold digger, as I had suspected; she was also a cheater, willing to throw away everything we had shared for the sake of a fleeting moment of pleasure. The thing I despised the most was disloyalty, and she knew it well. Well played, darling. I walked up towards them. "Surprise, babe, I said as I let out a chuckle. ¡®Babe?'''' the other guy said. ''''Oh, I can explain he is just a friend '''', she said, feeling nervous. Friends don''t go down each other''s throats; and as for the benefits, you have fun and have a good day, I said and walked out of the room. As I walked away, I couldn''t help but feel a sense of betrayal. It was clear that our relationship was not built on trust and honesty, and all she wanted to be was a sugar baby. Another thing that added to my best day ever was getting inside my car and hitting the steering wheel in anger. I drove back to my house, took off my coat, and threw it on the couch. A maid came towards me, asking for dinner. ''''I will take a shower first, I told her. As you wish, sir, she said, bowing and going to do her duties. I went to my bathroom and took off my clothes to take a hot shower. I let the water drip down my shoulders and then onto my body. I took a deep breath as I ran my hand through my hair. As the water was pouring down my body, I kept thinking about everything that happened this past year. My father''s death, taking over his company, having to handle all mafia business, and being cheated on by a girl I hoped would stay with me, but she began to show her true colors¡ªI guess I should have expected that. I finish my shower and walk out of my room wearing only pants and a sweatshirt. I sat down on the couch and turned on the television while checking my emails on my laptop. I received a call from James while I was working and eating dinner. I respond, ''''Yeah?'''' ''''Hey, where are you?'''' he inquired. ''''At my house, why?'''' I replied. ''''Perfect, I''m in front of your house boss,'''' he said as he hung up the phone. I laughed, and then I saw him approaching me. ''''You should have told me, bastard,'''' I said as I looked at him. He winked at me. ¡®¡¯Haha, this is called a surprise, which I believe you are unaware of,'''' he said. ''''I''m not a fan of surprises,'''' I explained as I set my laptop down. ''''How come?'''' he wondered. Well, I got a surprise this evening; Amber cheated on me, I said, and he looked at me with wide eyes. '''' Woah shocker'''' he said in a fake shocked tone '''' What? Did you see it coming? I asked him. Well, you didn''t?'''' he said sarcastically. ''''Well, cheer up; let''s go get a drink or something. I glared at him. ''''No thank you,'''' I said, pointing to the bar in the living room. ''''Defects of being a rich lad,'''' he laughed. ''''Oh, come on, don''t start with this topic; it''s not like I chose this,'''' I said. ''''Agree to disagree,'''' he said, leaning back on the couch. ''''You can''t make me go out because I''m not in the mood,'''' I said. ''''But your friend who has been there for you for 3 damn years can, which happens to be this guy, can''t he?'''' he said, pointing to himself and grinning. "It''s not like I don''t want to get this off my mind, but going for a drink with James was the last thing I needed. It''s true we''ve been friends for a while now, and I do trust him after Broody, Miles, and Chase, I''m not in the mood. I looked at him again and then thought, ''It''s just a drink, why not?''" ''fine I''m driving,'''' I said sulking ''''You''re such a pain in my ass, all that talk just to any party," he chuckled ''hmm let me go get changed and then we can go'''' We drove around looking for a fancy club, and James was giving me directions to one of the clubs he had been wanting to go to. We drove for another 15 minutes and pulled up next to the club. We went inside, and it was very dark inside with loud music on. I hadn''t been to such clubs since college; it was the same alcohol, cigars, fancy lights, and dancing. Girls were on poles laughing and enjoying themselves while many men threw money at them. We both sat down on the couch around the corner, and a bartender took our order and left. I looked over at James, who was busy eye-fucking a girl sitting across the room. I laughed'''' already. ''''She''s a really hot man'''', he winked at her. Nah, more of a six. I replied being uninterested in that girl. James is such a womanizer he fucks girls and forgets their names but i agree to that policy getting strings attached to these women causes nothing then more drama in your life. As I glanced to my left, I noticed a girl confidently making her entrance into the building. She was adorned in a mesmerizing, floor-length red gown with a captivating leg slit. The dress embraced her curves perfectly, showcasing her poise and undeniable sense of style. With each well-paced step, she made her way toward the bar, her presence commanding attention. Her movements were deliberate, exuding a quiet assurance that spoke volumes. As she settled onto a barstool, her confidence was palpable, effortlessly drawing the gaze of those around her. Her beauty was simply captivating, an enchanting mix of elegance and strength that left an indelible impression on anyone who had the privilege of witnessing her entrance I observed her; she was probably flirting with the bartender. I wanted to approach her, but I waited for a couple of minutes. My eyes gawked at her not too much but the way she sat down at the front of the bar somehow made my throat dry. I saw a small small black thing, maybe a tattoo on her inner thigh where the dress fell but she covered it while blushing. She raised her glass and looked in my direction, but not at me, but someplace farther away. I slyly side eyed at the back to see who this young woman found pleasure in smiling at. She was looking at an old man who was playing a game of cards, probably poker. "Ugh, here we go again with another gold digger. I kept an eye on her as she moved in on that old guy''s table, cozying up to him like there was no tomorrow. Her hands traveled down that man''s chest and I tightened my jaw. She was a beauty but still a slut . They chatted for a bit, she laughed and that man kissed her hand and licked the spot. Ugh gross this is what i despise most about mankind they act like animals. Throwing out desperation for lust. In what seemed like moments, they were making their way out of the place together. As I watched them leave, a thought crossed my mind: "Wow, she''s hunting her prey." The scene played out like a story unfolding before my eyes, leaving me intrigued and slightly uneasy. But then, not even ten minutes later, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Out of nowhere, the sound of gunfire shattered the calm, creating a sudden and intense burst of chaos.. '''' FUCK! someone yelled. James looked at me'''' and said, What the fuck is going on?'''' I was confused¡ªwas it a threat to me or someone else? I reloaded my gun just in case. A voice called out, filled with anger and accusation, "You killed our boss, and you''ll pay for it!" The situation was escalating rapidly, and I realized we were caught in the middle of something far more dangerous than I had anticipated Are you sure?'''' I laughed wanting some spice in this boring evening and to think that I did kill a poor guy for messing up with me but it was well deserved. ''''Yeah, yeah, I''m sure, let''s get out with our heads attached to our necks respectfully'''', he chuckled. ¡®¡¯Dang it i was wanting a bit more blood on my hands this evening i did wanted to get out some range today but sure I''ll go to my place¡¯¡¯ i replied being bored This was a beautiful conspiracy. Whoever was behind it, it was beautifully planned, but I have a feeling that the girl in the red dress has a connection with this. And now I am fucking curious. || RUTH|| I took a deep breath as I remembered those days of agony and torture. I shake my head and remove my wig and the contact lenses from my eyes. ''''There''s something about blood that makes me feel uneasy,'''' I thought as I stared at my bloody hands. My phone rang as I received a text from Lucas: Good job, Danan. I smiled at the text, but I didn''t reply yet as the Uber driver told me that we had arrived. I paid the Uber driver, went inside the building, and walked towards my apartment''s door. I unlocked the door and went inside. As I came inside, I threw my bag on the couch and went to the bathroom to quickly wash my hands and face, hoping to get rid of the lingering blood odor. It''s a small price to pay for the satisfaction that comes with vengeance. I changed into something comfy and went to the kitchen to make myself instant noodles because you''ve got to eat to survive, right? right. I went to the kitchen and boiled the water in a kettle. Why in a kettle, you may ask? Well, the simple answer to that is that I am too lazy to take out a pot and do everything. After the water boiled, I put the noodles and the sauce packet in and stirred them for a few minutes. Once they were done, I put the noodles in a bowl and went to my room. ''''Are you done''''? I texted Lucas as I sat down on my bed. ''''Yeah, I just got home.'''' He texted me back after a couple of minutes. ''''What are you doing?'''' I texted him. ''''Living in bed, you?'''' he replied with a smirk emoji. ''''Same in bed; what happened back in the club?'''' I texted him back. The usual panic in the crowd¡ªpeople screaming while the enemies'' men draw their guns¡ªwhat about your side?'''' he texted back. Haha, well, the same men are so stupid sometimes. With the easy pin to the wall and the knife in and out, I texted him back. ''''Jesus, you scare me sometimes. I laughed at his text. '''' Are you okay with the blood?'''' he texted in seconds. As I read that text, I felt as if someone hugged me. Haha, stupid feelings, but I''m glad that he remembers such little things that I''ve told him. At least he listens and cares. "Yeah, I''m good, thanks for asking''''. I responded to his text. ''''Stop playing Danan'''', he texted back. ''''I am not, anyway; I''m tired. I''m going to head to bed; sounds good?'''' I replied. ''''I am still not convinced that you are okay and not a crying mess," he sent an audio message. '''' I''m a big girl; I can handle myself, professor''''. I sent one back as well. ''''Aww, shut up, and call me if you need anything.'''' Another audio text I texted him goodnight and drifted to bed. I woke up to the sound of my alarm. RING RING RING UGHH!! stupid alarm. I fucking hate mornings. I took my phone and turned it off. My eye fell on a WhatsApp notification from Fallon,'''' '' ''''Hey D, How about a ride today around 2 ?". Fallon was another girl who had been serving Marcs, she was sixteen at that time but someone bought her six months ago, and she was allowed to roam around the city on Sundays. We would hang out sometimes. She was two years younger than me. I loved her; she was like a little sister, and if I could, I would protect her from everything that was happening to her because even if she says that she''s doing good the bruises and scars say something else. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. but a race on a Sunday? Do I have the energy for that? I''ll text her after a coffee. It''s already 1 in the afternoon. I put my phone aside and got up to go to the bathroom. After coming out, I went to the kitchen and made myself a cup of coffee. I sat down on the couch and turned on the TV. Let''s see if I make it on any news channel, I thought to myself. Oh wow, that murder is on every channel, just like all the previous ones. I deserve an Oscar for that. Come on, is there no award for seducing a man and then killing him with a pocket knife? I grabbed my phone and texted Fallon back,'''' Sure, Cya soon. I finished my coffee and walked towards my room to pick out an outfit to wear. I paired denim jeans with a black crop top and a black leather jacket with boots. I grabbed my keys and left my apartment around 1:30 p.m., then walked up to the parking lot and unlocked my Norton V4. The only good thing about being an assailant and a part-time slave is the money. I saved for five years and worked extra hours to get this bike. It''s simply stunning. I started my bike and drove outside. The destination I was supposed to go to was seven miles away. As I revved the engine, the wind blew through my hair, and I felt the power of the bike beneath me. I couldn''t help but feel a sense of freedom and exhilaration as I rode down the street. Riding my Norton V4 was more than just a way to get around; it was a way of life. How much I missed this feeling. Whenever I''m out for a ride, sometimes I forget who I am and who I have to be in this world. I feel free. When I got to the place, it was already crowded. I parked my bike and walked towards the crowd. They were screaming someone''s name, and when I paid attention to what everyone was saying, it took me seconds to realize that they were chanting Miles! He was one of the really popular guys, whom all the girls wanted to be around; he was a muscular, cute guy, and he was awfully rich. He was the type of guy I''d kill just for pleasure, but I don''t have any beef with him; we hardly speak to each other. As I pushed my way through the crowd, I caught a glimpse of Miles standing on a makeshift stage, surrounded by his adoring fans. I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of envy for his seemingly perfect life. I was busy in my thoughts when someone back-hugged me and screamed in my ear, You''re here! I turn around and see Fallon; her orange hair is tied up in a ponytail, and she is wearing shorts and a top. ''''Hey, Jesus, fall on my ear!'''' I cried as she hugged me. ''''Sorry, how are you?'''' she laughed. ''''Oh, just the same, what about you?'''' I asked her. Well, I''m great now, but it won''t be when I get back home and serve that asshole, she said while laughing. I changed the topic. I want to escape this slavery for a minute. ''''So miles is the new big thing here?'''' I asked her. ''''Yeah, you know him?'''' she asked. We went to high school. "We went to high school together," I replied. ''''Wait, really?'''' she asked. Yeah, wait, I will challenge him for a race, I said, winking at her. ''''No, he is Miles Aestos; you can''t just go to him, Ruth. And I am Ruth Danan; my name has more power than his. I blew a kiss at Fallon and walked towards the little stage where Miles was standing. I stood on the stage, and I could already feel Miles smirking at me. We crossed paths four months ago when I was at a bar. We didn''t talk much, but he promised that once I paid a visit here, he would race with me. The only thing I didn''t know was that he was a professional. It''s not like I''m new at this; we used to race each other in high school and college, but he was the best friend of the guy who used to bully me through high school until university. He never intended to hurt me, but he wasn''t my friend either. neutral, I would say. Miles has blond hair and a sharp jawline; he''s gotten a lot more muscular since I last saw him, or perhaps I wasn''t paying attention to his body at the time. I couldn''t help but notice the confidence in his voice, but I was determined to rub some dirt on his face, I couldn''t help but feel a rush of excitement and nerves. "Ruth?" he inquires. ''''Aestos! I said it emphatically. ''''You came,'''' he says as he walks towards me. ''''Well, you challenged me to a race; how can I refuse? So are you going to keep your promise or what?" I raised my eyebrows. ''''I''ll keep my promise, but be prepared to lose,'''' he said. I smiled back, trying to hide my nerves. We took our positions at the starting line and waited for the signal to begin. Before we took off, I looked to my right and saw a guy dressed up in all-black clothing; his hair was wavy, and he was smiling at me, but why? He is kind of cute, though, not gonna lie. His eyes seemed familiar. The sound of the whistle echoed in my ears as we both took off, determined to win. || DYLAN|| I woke up a little late today and stayed at home rather than going to work because I was having a bit of a hangover from last night. My mind was still thinking about that girl; she looked so innocent and beautiful, and if she was somehow related to what happened last night, she must have been in this business for a long time. She was hot for one thing and knew how to lure a man into her arms just for the sake of her job. impressive; it''s usually obvious to point out a hitwoman, but she was different. The headache was getting worse, so I decided to get myself a glass of water. I walked in, and a maid exclaimed, "Oh, sir, you have woken up. Would you like some breakfast?" I simply hummed back, grabbed a drink of water, and headed to my room. As I set the glass down, my phone lit up with a text notification from Miles. His message was like a blast from the past, urging me to race, and reminding me of simpler days. But things weren''t so simple anymore. "Yo, dude, down for a race; it''s Wednesday, and I know you''re probably busy with your stupid meetings, but come on, it''s been a while since you''ve been on the road." He wasn''t wrong. It had been ages since I''d raced anyone, and the nostalgia hit hard. But life had taken me down a different path. Taking over the family business, both the legitimate one and the less savory side, left little time for indulging in old habits. Since my father''s passing, managing his mafia empire alongside running the firm had become an all-consuming task. Gone were the days of carefree races and nights spent in clubs. Now it was all about strategy, alliances, and maintaining a delicate balance between legality and the shadows. I sighed, torn between the memories of reckless freedom and the weight of responsibility. Replying, I declined Miles''s invitation, citing a busy week. But the truth was, I couldn''t afford to let myself get pulled back into that world, even if I missed it. "I can''t, sorry. I''m swamped this week. How about another time?" I typed out, the words feeling heavier than they should. His reply came almost instantly, a simple "I got it." But beneath the brevity, I sensed a hint of disappointment, a recognition of how much things had changed. Closing the message, I pushed aside the pang of longing, refocusing on the tasks at hand. The past might hold its allure, but the present demanded my full attention. I took a deep breath. What am I supposed to do? I want to live freely, but something holds me back. I''m too tired these days. Everything is messed up¡ªhandling drugs, catching traitors, and killing them, holding meetings with investors handling all of it. The killing part is rather fun but fucking tiring. I often find myself yearning for a simpler life away from the constant chaos and violence that come with running a criminal empire. The weight of my responsibilities weighs heavily on me, leaving me drained and longing for a sense of normalcy. I decided to take a walk outside and grab a coffee from a cafe nearby. It was a nice sunny day outside with a cool breeze going on. The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. I went inside and gave them my order, and I sat down on one of the benches around the corner. I took out my phone and scrolled through Instagram. I was scrolling down when I came across a video of a girl shouting Miles''s name. I lowered the volume as people began to look at me. I watched the video, and there were a lot of people on that track, it looks similar, I guess because there is only one bike track in New York, with girls screaming Mile''s name. I watched Miles riding, drifting, and doing stunts. I kind of feel bad for the other guy; he does not have any fan girls. and he sucks at riding. The woman put my coffee down, and I sipped it while looking outside the window. a small smirk grew on my face. I called my driver and told him my location. I know I am a jerk, but I want to keep my promise as a friend. I finished my coffee, paid the waiter, and walked outside the cafe. I waited outside for a couple of minutes. My car arrives, and the driver opens the door for me," Good morning, sir, he said formally. ''''Thanks, William, '''' I smiled and sat inside as he closed the door. Where are we going, sir? he asked. ''''Burning Solas'''', I said with a smile on my face. "All right, sir," he said as he began driving; the track was only a few kilometers away. As I looked out the window, memories of those wild nights flooded my mind, bringing a nostalgic smile to my face. The track ahead was maybe just a few kilometers away, but it felt like a lifetime since those carefree days of youthful rebellion and adrenaline-fueled adventures. It was bittersweet to think about how much time can change people, transforming them from carefree partygoers to individuals caught up in dangerous activities like handling drugs and guns. I looked at the board that said Burning Solas. William parked the car, and I got out. I could easily hear girls screaming at the top of their lungs. I scoff at the fact that the motherfucker has all the girls wrapped around him. Good job, Miles, you deserved it. I walked inside and made my way through the crowd. Miles was standing on the stage. I got closer to the stage and shot him a head-up... He laughs and shows me the middle finger, and just as I was about to walk up to him, I saw a girl looking fairly confident, dressed up in jeans and a tight top with just the perfect amount of cleavage and a jacket. She walks up to him like she owns the place and calls him by his last name. Is she a crazy ex-girlfriend or what? I stare at her talking and challenging him to a race. Wow, she has the nerve to do so. Let''s see. I actually want to see how she loses. Miles looks over at me, gives an eye roll, and I laugh. They both get to the starting line. She is riding a beautiful bike, which might be an SV. Daddy''s money, I am sure. She looks over at me, and I smile at her. I could see her cheeks flush before she wore her helmet. and they both took off. There is a huge screen that shows who is in the lead. I look over it, and Miles is in the lead. Oh god, she is going to lose horribly. I keep my eyes fixed on that screen until she speeds up, and it''s next to miles. The drone zooms in on their faces, and I can feel her smirking. Miles is wasting his boost-ups in frustration. She stays a bit behind on the first lap. She passed by, and I could see her looking at me. They take it off the track and onto the road, the drone follows them, and everyone is cheering for miles, but my bet is on that girl with the determined look in her eyes. As they navigate through the twists and turns, she effortlessly overtakes Miles, leaving him in her dust. The crowd''s excitement grows as they witness her skill and strategy, making it clear that she is a force to be reckoned with. She comes back to the track with miles only inches away from her, and the crowd is cheering and screaming at the top of their lungs. She lifts her bike as she reaches the finish line and another girl hugs her. She looked as if she was smiling, but not expressing much happiness. Miles gives her a side hug and walks towards me. My eyes are fixed on her, and we make a small eye contact, but her friend pulls her away and takes her somewhere. Miles gives her a small hug and walks towards me. I could not help but burst into laughter when Miles said,'''' We don''t fucking talk about that; I let her win on purpose.'''' ''''Yeah, yeah, the frustration on your face says something else'''', I laughed. ''''Did you know who she was?'''' he asked, taking a deep breath and looking up. ''''No, who was she?'''' I said, feeling confused. She did not look like any girl I knew. '''' Ruth Danan, he said with a smirk. || AUTHOR|| Yes, Ruth Danan, the girl Dylan bullied in college, said there was mostly verbal abuse between them, but sometimes it got physical too. Ruth was an easy target for everyone because she was shy and sensitive, and because she had been homeschooled her entire life, she developed some speaking issues as well as social anxiety. Despite the lack of physical abuse, Ruth''s self-esteem and mental well-being were severely impacted by Dylan''s verbal abuse. The constant taunting and belittling exacerbated her pre-existing communication and social interaction issues, making it even more difficult for her to navigate college life. She belonged to a middle-class family; her father worked in an office, and her mother was a housewife. She was a very smart child. Dylan Fender was the son of one of the world''s most feared mafia leaders and a very successful businessman. He grew up with every luxury one could imagine. No one dared speak against him; Dylan wielded power, and everyone did as he pleased. If anyone dared speak against him, he would be beaten until his face bled enough blood to satisfy him. Dylan''s fear and control over others appeared unbreakable. His commanding presence silenced any potential detractors, forcing everyone to bow to his every whim. Crossing him sent shivers down anyone''s spine, especially after witnessing the brutal consequences inflicted on those who dared to challenge his authority. And then there was Ruth; she foolishly defended a guy who was being bullied, and since then Dylan has made sure that every day she spends at this college is like walking through hell. Dylan only trusted three of his friends: Miles, Broody, and Chase. They were inseparable; these four guys were sons of millionaires and practically ruled half of New York. Dylan''s charismatic personality and ruthless nature made him the undisputed leader of their group, while Miles, Broody, and Chase followed his every command without question. Together, they formed an intimidating force that struck fear into the hearts of both their peers and those who crossed their paths. Ruth broke all their rules, like cooking her off at lunch, spreading dirty rumors about her, pushing her while walking, and ripping her books or notes. It even got worse when other students got involved. She even got sexually harassed, so she finally decided to speak up and report the incidents to the college administration. Despite her fear of potential backlash, Ruth knew that it was important to take a stand against the mistreatment she was enduring. But to her surprise, the teachers and the principal ignored her and told her that if she said anything against him, she would be kicked out of college, and even worse, she wouldn''t get accepted into any other colleges across the state. Feeling defeated, she continued ignoring all the troubles that Dylan caused her. Dylan got frustrated with how much Ruth could bear, so he decided to do something that would for sure break her into pieces. One day, when Ruth was heading down to the hall for her next class, someone grabbed her arm, pulled her into an empty classroom, and pinned her to the wall. She tried pushing the guy away, but he stayed on her body and pinned her hands above her head. Ruth felt angry at herself for not being able to push him away because she was too weak. Her muffled cries made the guy laugh; she was too scared to open her eyes. Open your eyes, nerd, the guy said, unbuttoning her shirt. There was more than one guy in the room, and Ruth heard laughter. The intensity of the moment overwhelmed her as he forcefully grabbed her jaw and forced her into a kiss. However, her lack of response only seemed to escalate his aggression. Ignoring her discomfort, he bit down on her lips, causing them to tear and blood to flow from her mouth. The excruciating pain she felt made her scream out in agony. Another guy grabbed her and slid down her shirt,'''' saying, You will remember this baby. He kissed her neck and sucked on it while he grabbed her waist. She cried, Leave me! They both got off her, and I saw the flashlight of a phone recording her. She was standing only in her undergarments. Panicked and realizing the situation, she ran for the door, but the guy pinned her to the wall, barely making her head hit the wall. He grabbed her head and pushed it into the wall again. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. She could feel the sharp pain shooting through her skull as tears streamed down her face. Desperate to escape, she mustered all her strength and fought back, kicking and screaming for help. Her screams were heard by someone who had the key to the room, which was locked. He unlocked the door and said, Out, at which point that guy on top of Ruth backed away, as did everyone else. Ruth stayed pinned to the wall and just slid down her body as she hugged her knees while sitting on the floor, blood dripping down her neck. Ruth looked up, and it was Miles Aesdos. Tears pouring down her eyes and shaking terribly, she managed to stand up and slap his face. What the fuck do you guys want from me, huh?'''' she screamed at him. Are you too afraid that a girl has stood up to you, so you try to take away her innocence? You should be ashamed of yourself, you bastard. Fuck you!" she said while crying hysterically. Cover yourself up and go to the nurse''s ward, he said, looking away from her before walking out. We have nothing against you; we just need to tell you who is the boss here, and your video has been posted online; already half the college has seen it, so yeah, cover up and be happy that I stopped them before they fully explored you in and out. He picked up her clothes and threw them at her. She picked them up, got dressed, and dashed out of the building . That was the last time she spent there, and her life turned upside down. Several months later, Dylan''s father passed away as well, and he had to take care of everything. He had a younger brother who moved to England. His mother married another man and moved in with him, so he was all alone. Karam is a real bitch. From here, Dylan and Ruth lived in the same world but were not connected in any way. Ruth varied as an Assassin, while Dylan dealt with drugs. Dylan had an empire, which Marc envied. Marc Collinger was the guy whom Ruth''s parents had taken a loan from, which Ruth''s father lost in multiple games of poker. Unable to pay back the loan, they were trapped, and their bodies were burned in front of Ruth''s eyes. So was their house. Once, her family danced on the edge of prosperity, until a reckless gamble shattered their dreams. Marc Collinger, a shadowy figure with fingers dipped in darkness, held the strings of their fate. Ruth''s parents, ensnared in a deadly game of chance, lost not only their fortune but their very lives in a blaze that seared Ruth''s soul. Left orphaned and alone, Ruth wandered the streets like a ghost, her spirit broken, her future bleak. It was then that Marc Collinger, a man with eyes that pierced through shadows, saw her ¨C a fragile wisp of a girl amidst the chaos. With a twisted smile, he offered her a deal she couldn''t refuse. Bound by invisible chains forged of desperation and fear, Ruth found herself thrust into the heart of Collinger''s empire, a world of smoke and mirrors where debts were paid in blood and broken dreams. Each night, Ruth tended to the patrons of Collinger''s infamous clubs, their laughter ringing hollow in her ears as she counted the seconds ticking away, each heartbeat a reminder of the debt that loomed over her like a specter. Thirty dollars for every soul she tended to, Collinger promised, a small mercy in the face of a debt that seemed insurmountable. But behind the fa?ade of generosity lurked the truth ¨C a truth that Ruth dared not confront, a truth that whispered of a debt far greater than any sum of money. Yet amidst the darkness, a flicker of hope remained, a flame that refused to be extinguished. For Ruth knew deep within her heart that even in the darkest of nights, there existed a glimmer of dawn, a chance for redemption, a possibility of freedom. And so, with each passing day, Ruth clung to that flickering flame, nurturing it with every breath, every heartbeat, every whispered prayer. For though the road ahead may be treacherous and fraught with peril, she knew that as long as there was breath in her lungs and fire in her soul, she would never surrender to the shadows. For Ruth was not merely a pawn in Collinger''s twisted game ¨C she was a survivor, a fighter, a beacon of hope in a world consumed by darkness. And though the path to freedom may be long and arduous, she would walk it with her head held high, for she knew that true strength lay not in the absence of fear, but in the courage to face it, to defy it, to conquer it. And so, as the city slept and the stars whispered secrets to the night, Ruth stood on the precipice of destiny, her gaze fixed upon the horizon, her heart ablaze with the promise of a new dawn. For even in the darkest of nights, there existed a glimmer of hope, a spark of defiance, a chance for redemption. And Ruth would seize it with both hands, for she knew that though the road ahead may be fraught with danger and uncertainty, it was hers to walk, hers to conquer, hers to claim. For she was Ruth ¨C survivor, fighter, beacon of hope ¨C and she would never stop until she had reclaimed her freedom, her dignity, her life. || RUTH || Beating Miles in his own game sure feels good as hell. As I get off my bike, I turn around and smirk at him. ''''You were saying miles?'''' I laughed as he approached me. Yeah, sorry, he said, giving me a small hug, wrapping his arms around my waist, and pulling away quickly. '''' You are fast; I''ll give you that,'''' he added. '''' Thanks, Miles. I chuckled, and then he walked away. As soon as I turned around, I was pulled into a hug by Fallon. ''''You totally kicked his ass, oh my god! And you guys just hugged!'''' she exclaimed, getting extremely excited. "Yeah, I did," I replied, still feeling a rush of adrenaline from the race. "And yeah, we hugged. It was just a friendly gesture, nothing more." Fallon''s excitement was contagious, and we both burst into laughter as we walked away together. ''''You went to college with him!!'''', she said loudly. ''''Yeah'''', I said, dragging my bike to the side as we walked. ''''Were you into dating at that point?'''' she asked, looking at me. ''''That guy hired boys to assault me back at that time, so we were not dating, but we just got on good terms because he helped me kill a target,'''' I told her as I let out a soft chuckle. '''' Wait...what'''' She stopped while walking and stared at me like I was some kind of freak. ''''Yeah, well, it was a long time ago; besides, I won today, so that makes up for that''''. I said and smiled at her and got on my bike. "Well, I guess that''s fair," she said as she hopped on the back. "You are treated to lunch, right?" she added with a playful tone. I chuckled in response, feeling a surge of excitement as she lifted her hands in the air. With a burst of speed, we darted through the bustling city streets. The rush of wind against our faces and the blur of passing cars added to the exhilaration of the moment. In that instant, I couldn''t help but revel in the freedom of the open road. As we weaved effortlessly through traffic, a sense of gratitude washed over me. Despite the unconventional path I had chosen in life, filled with twists and turns, it was moments like these that reaffirmed my decision. The spontaneity, the thrill, and the connection shared with this adventurous companion made every choice worthwhile . I parked my bike as we approached the restaurant, and then we both walked inside. We both sat down, and a waiter placed a menu at our table. We looked through it and then decided on our meals. The waiter took our order, and we waited a couple of minutes before he returned with our plates. He placed our order on the table, but then I noticed that my plate was accompanied by a small red note. I picked it up and read it: Meet me in the back to find out about your next target. At the end of the note, there were two initials: MC, which was Marcs Collinger. I ripped the note immediately. Fuck,'''' I mumbled. This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. What''s wrong? What was that?'''' she asked. '''' Marcs, I said, taking in a deep breath. Right now?'''' she said, putting her fork down. I just hummed in response, put my credit card on the table, and said, I''ll catch you later, okay?'''' ''''Hey, you don''t have to pay, and it''s okay, just be safe, she smiled at me, and I got up from my seat. ''''It was my treat,'''' I smiled as I walked out of the restaurant and into an alley behind the restaurant. I felt anger building inside me because I was hopeless; there was nothing I could do. I don''t remember the last time I spent a day in peace without worrying about something. As I walked further into the alley, the weight of my troubles seemed to grow heavier with each step. A man was standing in a purple long coat; his eyes were fixed on me he laughed as I approached him,''''''Hello, my dear, You came way quicker than I expected.'''' Marcs Collinger. ''''I didn''t have much of a choice, did I?'''' I took a step closer to him. He took a step closer and touched my hair, saying,'''' You are such an obstinate girl, aren''t you?'''' ''''Stop the nonsense and get to the point,'''' I said, rolling my eyes at him. ''''Well, don''t get too worked up because you don''t want to go back to the club and work there again, right?'''' He smirked and took a step back. Shivers went down my spine just as he completed that sentence. ''''Yeah, sorry. It''s better to immediately apologize rather than argue. ''''So about your next target, it''s him,'''' he said, showing me a picture of an old man. ''''Him?'''' I questioned him. His son replied with a wide grin on his face. ''''And who is he?'''' I inquired. '''' Dylan Fender I hope you''re familiar with that name. You will come down to Costas tonight, and I will tell you who he has become since the last time you saw him.'''' My feet froze to the ground as he completed his sentence .My feet froze to the ground as he completed his sentence: "No, it can''t be; please, God, be anyone else in this world, be the president, or anyone else, just not him. As waves of memories crashed over me, I found myself engulfed in a torrent of emotions. Each recollection of our past encounters felt like a heavy weight pressing down on my heart, filling me with a deep sense of dread and unease. The mere thought of crossing paths with Dylan Fender once more after all these years sent shivers cascading down my spine, as if the very essence of my being recoiled at the prospect. But amidst the turmoil of my emotions, I resolved to confront this fear head-on. I knew that facing Dylan again would require summoning every ounce of courage within me, but I was determined not to let the haunting echoes of our past dictate my present. With a steadying breath, I braced myself to confront the shadows of our shared history, knowing that only by confronting them could I hope to find peace and closure. Though the road ahead seemed daunting, I clung to the flickering ember of hope, determined to navigate through the darkness and emerge stronger on the other side I was struggling with words; what should I say? I can''t refuse, but I can''t face Dylan again; he is a fucking nightmare. The air around me grew thicker. Just breathe, Ruth. ''''Yeah, I know him, but Marc''s, I can''t deal with Dylan; can you hire someone else? I''ll work extra hours at the club as long as you don''t make me deal with him.'''' I begged him that no matter how pitiful I appear right now, I would rather lose all my confidence than look at his face again. I don''t need anyone telling me who he is; he is one of the most ruthless mafias around. One minute he is smiling, the next he has shot you in the head before you know it. I have heard how he tortures his traitors; he is very dangerous, but no one has seen his face yet. He operates in the shadows, leaving behind a trail of fear and mystery. Rumors suggest that he is a master of disguise, constantly changing his appearance to evade capture. It''s as if he possesses an uncanny ability to blend seamlessly into any crowd, making it nearly impossible to identify him. Marcs laughed loudly,'''' Aww, Ruth, my dear, you look so pretty while begging, no matter why your demand in the market is so high. Honey, I was not asking if you could do it or not. Besides, if you manage to pull this stunt off, I will clear all of your debt''''. He smirked as he saw my eyes go wide. Was he serious? '''' What...? I was too stunned to say anything. '''' Costas at 10, he said and walked away. My back met a wall, and I sat and hugged my knees. I bit my lower lip, holding myself back from crying... God knows what he will do to me if he finds out my identity. But all my debt would be paid off, which means freedom at last, happiness, and a free woman''s life. I had been living in fear for far too long, constantly on edge and hiding my true self. The thought of finally breaking free from this suffocating situation filled me with a glimmer of hope and the courage to take a leap of faith. I will do it...I will take the risk, no matter what it leads to.