Seduction's Shadow

Chapter 52: Dancing with the devil

As Nikol continued to ponder the upcoming confrontation, his phone buzzed again with another message. This time, it was Aiden, teasing him further.

Aiden: By the way, I might need a car as well. Ahmm, Nik, ahmm...

Nikol's jaw tightened, knowing where this was headed.

Nikol: Take another, not my baby (Bugatti Centodieci).

Aiden's cheeky response came quickly, full of laughter.

Aiden: Alright, alright. You're too attached to that car. See you, hero.

Nikol shook his head, a rare smile crossing his lips. Despite the tension with Aari, Aiden's antics always managed to lighten the mood, even if just for a moment.

Moments later, Nik's phone buzzed again. This time, it was a video call from Aiden. Nik accepted the call, greeted by Aiden's grinning face behind the wheel of Nik's prized Bugatti Centodieci. The engine purred softly in the background, a testament to its power and rarity.

Aiden: Hey, Nik! Taking this baby out for a spin. You know it's a rare gem—only 10 were built. But I have full faith in you. If something happens to this one, you'll get another custom made.

Nikol chuckled softly, his gaze flickering to the car's sleek lines and distinctive design.

Nikol: Don't push your luck, Aiden. Bring it back in one piece.

Aiden's grin widened mischievously.

Aiden: No promises, hero! By the way, remember when I lost your Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime? You made one call, and you had another made without a fuss.

Nikol chuckled again, remembering the incident vividly.

Nikol: You're never going to let that go, are you?

Aiden shook his head, still grinning.

Aiden: Never, Nik. You know me.

Nikol smiled, genuine warmth in his eyes despite the playful banter.

Nikol: Just take care of my babygirl, Aiden. I'll catch up with you later.

Aiden nodded, his expression turning serious for a moment.

Aiden: Will do, Nik. See you soon.

The call ended, leaving Nikol with a mixture of amusement and gratitude for his friend's unwavering loyalty and the shared memories that defined their enduring bond.

Nikol gets up to play with his "kittycat," Aari, after she invited him into her house. He's the kind of devil she should have avoided, yet like prey, she feels she can confront the predator. It's a moment that makes Aari realize surrendering to him might be her path to redemption.

Nikol felt the anticipation bubbling within him as he drove to Aari's house. His thoughts were consumed by her—the way her lips felt under his touch, the way she defied him yet drew him in. He shook his head, trying to clear his mind and focus on the road. His car swerved as he nearly hit a buck that had wandered into his path. 

Aari's house loomed ahead, a striking, modern mansion with clean lines and large windows that reflected the moonlight. It was far too big for one person, yet every corner, every piece of furniture, every artwork spoke of her unique taste. Nikol admired it, his training allowing him to sneak-in easily. He parked his car, ensuring it was hidden from view, and approached the house stealthily. He needed to keep his identity hidden; revealing it could bring danger to Aari.

Once inside, he moved silently, his eyes adjusting to the dim light. He saw her from a corner.

Aari: (in her study, pencil in mouth, muttering to herself) "This has to make sense..."(as she stared intently at her notes.)