Dollface

Part 39

~~~~
Cards thrown all over the floor.

J: Why is she helping? She can't be involved.

I quickly glance at Simon next to me, who didn't even look up from his own cards.

S: Because she was the one who helped me sort those damn cards in the first place, and Ray wrote that in Italian, so she's the only one who can translate for us.

Johnny sighed and sat cross-legged across from the two of us.

J: Okay. Can you read us what the hell he wrote in those papers?
I: He said uhh... there's a man at the gala tonight who used to work for my father, who got laid off almost two years ago. He's the CEO of a company that sells government-influenced weapons to the current mafias. His name is Robert Grogan, find him and he'll tell us what we need to know.
J: This is giving me a damn headache. Why is Ray running away now?
I: Because he doesn't want to get killed, obviously.
J: Hi. I may not be as much of an idiot as Simon, but you still need to watch how you speak.

I roll my eyes and take a quick look at the notes in front of me.

S: Whatever Ray knew, it must have been about this guy, and if so, we need to be at that gala tonight.
J: Finally a lead. Something to work with.

Johnny breathed and rubbed his hands over his face.

I: I want to go.
J: No.
S: Hell no.
I: I'm going.
J: Isa, they'll recognize you, and when you go, it's over, every man will raise a storm.
S: Exactly, and I won't let that happen.

I cross my arms over my chest and pout like a child. Stubborn was an understatement.

I: It's a masquerade gala. Intentionally for how this Robert Mann wants to reduce conflict and rally everyone in his name. They would recognize you too, Simon, if we didn't have to make him wear a mask.

There was a silent pause before Simon spoke up.

S: I don't care, my job is to protect you and as long as there is a way to-
I: Either you allow me to go or I follow you both. You can choose.
J: Unbelievable.

Simon gritted his teeth and looked down at me, but I couldn't bring myself to fear him anymore.

~~~~
Hours later, I stood there, slipping into a rose gold black dress that perfectly fit the curves of my body.

My hair was curled at the ends and my makeup was carefully done by Simon's impatient nagging.

S: For God's sake, Isa, what's taking so long?

He breathed as I walked out of the bathroom, hopping my feet into a pair of high heels. I ignore him, he fills his pockets with the necessary weapons.

Then I realized he was wearing his usual black shirt, leaving the last top buttons undone to give a glimpse of his tattoos. He paired it with black pants and dress shoes, his hair noticeably brushed back from his face. I almost drooled at the sight.

Slowly I walk towards him and grab his shirt by the collar.

I: You look really good.

I offer a smile as he slowly looked up at me from below, his hand finding a place on my waist.

S: Don't think I'm still not mad at you for giving me useless compliments.

I look at him frowning. He was right, that wasn't good for my safety, but I wasn't going to back down now, I want to help them and be part of something that all started because of me. Regardless of the fact that death might be just around the corner.

I: I'm not staying here while you go out there and almost die for me.
S: Isa, I can't let you die on me. So stay with me always, they won't expect to see you there so hopefully the masks will do... *sigh* I just need your safety.

He warned quietly, damn I never thought I'd see the day but it made me melt. It made me pull his head down to be level with mine as our lips met.

The kiss was slow, meaningful. I wanted to show him how much this meant to me and by the way he pressed my body against his, he clearly showed the affection he returned in response.

My arms wrap around his neck so he can pull me tighter, slyly pushing his tongue into my mouth, my toes curling as I let out a soft moan, he seemed to enjoy it as he saw his fingers dig hard into my hips.

J: You guys are- dear fucking God, are you what the hell?!

Johnny spat, and we broke apart as we saw him cover his eyes in disgust. My face burned with embarrassment, knowing full well we were under arrest. Simon lets go of me and takes my hand, and I shyly allow him to intertwine our fingers.

Johnny glances at our hands and rolls his eyes, groaning loudly.

J: Really? Damn really?

His hand gestures between us, eyes wide.

J: Completely begging for death, both of you!
S: Get over it.

Simon said, completely ignoring what was happening, and Simon shoved Johnny out of the way and pulled me out of the bedroom with him.

J: Why did I see that coming?