Clash Into Clasp

CHAPTER 15 - Rescued

Carl was driving silently when he heard a phone buzzing nearby. He frowned knowing that his smartphone was in his pocket.

He stopped the car over and searched around the passenger seat. Soon, he pulled out the vibrating phone from below the edge of the seat.

Since Alexis was the only person who sat there, he knew easily that it was hers.

His brows furrowed unnaturally after he read the caller's ID - Sam.

Before he could decide to answer it, the call ended. He put it on the seat and drove back towards Alexis' apartment. She surely needs it.

When he arrived, the phone buzzed again, making him frown. The identity of the person curioused him so he picked up the phone and swiped the green button.

"Lex! Finally, you answered," a male's relieved voice immediately came in. "Where are you?"

His heart oddly twinged. "Alexis had left her phone," he spoke coldly.

There was a sudden pause from the other line. "Who are you?" The question was asked seriously.

"Doesn't matter. I'll tell Alexis you called," he quickly ended the call and his hand subconsciously gripped the stirring wheel. The man sounded like her boyfriend and he regretted answering it.

His thoughts on the other guy vanished after he saw the wallpaper on the phone. It was a photo of a younger Alexis with two women, possibly her sister and mother. She was smiling widely and her delicate face radiated with joy. An inexplicable sadness filled him as he remembered not seeing her smile that way.

Wait. Does she even smile in happiness nowadays?

Collecting his thoughts and ignoring what he was feeling, he opened the door and went out of his car. He straightened his coat and then headed towards the gate.

The strong smell of alcohol and cigarette greeted him. He frowned when he saw the drunk men babbling carelessly, circling a table filled with liquor, glasses, and some street foods.

"No, you can't f*ck her."

"Yes, I can! Watch me."

"I don't believe you. That architect is quite brave." 

Their conversation slowed down his pace. Are they talking about Alexis?

"She's still a woman and someone weak. I can easily get into her," said the big, bearded man.

He was already near them and the eyes of the inebriated men went to him. He pressed his teeth together and took the courageous step.

"Do you know what room she stays?" he asked then raised the phone, showing Alexis' picture.

He received a scrutinous look from them after they saw the picture.

"Who are you?" asked the bearded man raising his chin.

"It doesn't matter. I just want to return her phone," he shrugged, carefully observing the men. He wanted to know if they were talking about Alexis.

"Well, tell us first who you are," the man demanded as he stood, showing up his big body. 

"I'm her boss," he looked at him without any trail of fear. "So do you know what room she stays?"

"The first room on the right, after these stairs." It was a different man who spoke.

"Thanks," he turned to the man who answered then went on the stairs.

"Why did you tell him?" he heard the bearded man yell.