Ariella Garcia is an 18-year-old girl who dreams of leaving her current situation behind and starting a new life. She's fiercely independent, and her love for nature and animals is unparalleled. She's always surrounded by people who care about her...
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I step out of the bathroom, one towel wrapped around my waist and another draped over my head. I decide to dress casually; it's just us hanging out today. I add a few more rings to my fingers, thinking Ariella might find them fun to play with when I go pick her up.
The rest of our friends will meet us at our destination since I don't want them to intrude on our time together. Initially, I had considered going alone with her, but given her recent unpleasant date experience, it seemed better to have the group around.
That bastard who tried to slap Ariella is in one of my warehouses. He should have thought twice before trying to harm her.
I had one of my men do some digging on him, and guess what I found out?
The guy had rape charges filed against him, though they were eventually dropped due to a lack of evidence.
Just thinking about it makes my blood boil, and the urge to pay him a visit right now and beat the shit out of him is strong.
I check myself one last time in the mirror, running my hand through my hair to achieve that effortlessly casual look. Satisfied with my appearance, I exit my closet and make my way downstairs.
Taking a deep breath, I settle into my car and head to a nearby bakery. I pick up some pastries and grab a coffee for myself, along with a mango smoothie, knowing she has a fondness for all things mango.
Arriving at her house, I noticed a police car departing from the premises.
That must have been her dad.
I park the car and walk up to her door, ringing the bell. After a brief moment, Ariella opens the door, dressed in jeans, a hoodie, and white sneakers. It's a warm summer day, and I can't help but wonder how she can wear a hoodie without feeling too hot. I'm already sweating in my T-shirt.
She gives me a smile, though it seems somewhat forced. I reach out my hand, and she takes it as we walk to my car. I notice her limping slightly, though it's barely noticeable.
"Are you okay?" I ask, pointing to her leg.
She nods.
I raise an eyebrow wanting her to explain some more.
"I was rushing down the stairs while doing my hair, and I fell," she explains, though she doesn't make much eye contact with me.
"We don't have to go if you're not feeling up to it. We can reschedule," I suggest, concerned about her leg.
"No, I'm okay now. It doesn't really hurt anymore," she replies with a genuine smile, pulling me forward toward my car after thanking me for opening the door for her.
I quickly make my way to the driver's seat and start the car. She reaches for my hand, and I can't help but smile. I like that she's initiating physical contact now. I fucking love the way our hands fit together so perfectly.
