Kidnapped

CHAPTER FIFTY-ONE

-Tatuyanna Torrono >

Once again, here he is. Making me feel as if I'm not alone in this disappointing world. I don't want it to, but it makes me happy. I didn't even think I could feel that again. It's been a little over a year since my father left me. New Year's is around the corner, and suddenly it's not so bad being with my ex-bodyguard. 

"T." I look over my shoulder, a smile already gracing my lips as Marcela and Alessia approach us. "Hey guys," I squeeze them in a hug. "I didn't see you guys earlier." 

Alessia grins. "That's because you just arrived, and then got the spotlight instantly, Ms. Torrono." Her blue-green eyes narrow playfully. I snort a laugh. My chest warmed when she pushed a  section of my hair back, admiring me. "You look lovely in Gorgio Armani. Congratulations on being appointed as the new chairwoman."

I awkwardly flatten my palms against my thighs, with a smile. "Thank you." 

"We couldn't even approach you with all those businessmen surrounding you. Then all of a sudden, I see Ares push a woman into the pool. I mean I get that he's your bodyguard but damn." 

Her eyes shot behind me, to where Ares was standing. I huff a laugh, remembering the surreal moment. "He's not my bodyguard anymore. He's quite the hot shot now." 

"What do you mean?" She asks, confused. 

Alessia gasps, incredulous. "Marcela, you don't know? Ares started a company months ago. It's 'Seidon Tech', we've heard my papa speak about it remember?" Alessia says. 

It didn't seem like she was focusing on Alessia's explanation. In fact, Marcela's eyes were stuck on something that was on me, specifically my hand. "T, do you have something you're hiding or am I seeing things?" 

My heart drops, my eyes following hers, and instantly the diamond glint brings me back to Heathe's stupid plan. I hold back a sigh. "I'm. . . I'm engaged." I hide the shackle with my palm, swallowing and dreading the next question. 

Our conversation months ago rings within my head.

Wait, so your mother and father never spoke about marriage? The need to marry a high-status, reputable bachelor? Merging with a family that could benefit their image? None?"

It was only then, that I got introduced to arranged marriage. I always found it ridiculous. My father did to, and he wanted me to marry someone I loved. But now that he isn't in the picture anymore, I'm forced to not only get married but bear a child. Now after the introduction, I am all but a victim to arranged marriage.

"Who is it?"

Then suddenly Ares walks around me, places a hand around my waist, and pulls me against him. A feint smirk, on his hard features as he fails to hide his amusement.

"Me." 

Alessia glances at Marcela and murmurs. "Santa merda." [holy shit]

"Since when we're you seeing each other?" Marcela probed, a frown etched onto her features. "A long while actually. Isn't that right, darling?" Ares glances down at me, humor in his hazel eyes. It was so comical it made me wonder who he was at the moment. 

What the hell is he on? 

My eyes trail back to Marcela and I have to swallow, registering her expression. A look of betrayal clearly evident as her eyes look between Ares and me. Meanwhile, I'm sputtering to find the necessary words to explain myself. 

"Why didn't you say anything?" She asks then shakes her head and then proceeds to walk away. Alessia pulls me into quick a hug. "Don't take it personally, she. . . well." She sighs and pulls away. "I'll tell you later." She says and then runs after Marcela.