Revenge - English Version

Chapter 9 - Crossed Paths

ZAYN POV

My eyes open, but the light immediately pours in, burning them. Why do I never remember to close the curtains?

I try to get up, but the headache is far too intense to do so straight away. I take a deep breath, and on a second attempt, I slowly manage to stand up. Memories of the previous night flood in like a whirlwind, and a victorious smile forms on my lips.

That guy... he had no right to even mention her name. Now, at least, they know exactly who they're messing with. For their own good, I hope they never make that same mistake again.

I wonder how Tomlinson's coping?

All messed up, no doubt. I'd give anything to have seen his face after I left. The great Louis Tomlinson, beaten up by bookish Zayn Malik... Hilarious. I bet he's lost a lot of his credibility.

And then, Alexa.

I never thought I'd care about her reaction, but now... I need to think about it. I gave her mate a beating right in front of her. And if I remember how I get in these situations, I'm sure I scared her.

I just hope that doesn't ruin everything I've achieved so far. Maybe it's better to send her a message. We're still in the early stages; I can't risk losing what I've already built.

Hey love, we need to talk. At yours, today, 11. Z.

I leave the phone on the bed and head downstairs. Care is sitting on the sofa watching TV. Damn... she's going to notice the cuts on my hand and the bloody black eye, the only thing Louis left me with.

I try to slip past her into the kitchen, but like a witch, she spots me without even turning around.

— And maybe put some clothes on, Malik? You're in a family home. — I hear her voice with that teasing tone, and I already know she's rolling her eyes. I look down, and sure enough, I'm only in my boxers.

How did she even see?

— Are you going to say you don't like it? — I joke. She laughs sarcastically without taking her eyes off the TV.

— Oh, really? — I tease, but she just nods, still focused on the screen.

Since the damage is already done, and I know I won't be able to avoid her for the rest of the day, I decide the best solution is to distract her. In one leap, I jump over the sofa and land in front of her, making her squeal in surprise, which makes me laugh.

— So, you're saying you don't like this? — I grab her delicate, soft hand and guide it over my abs, feeling her warm skin. What started as a joke is quickly turning into something more serious.

Care smirks, but I can tell she's trying to hide a slight blush. Her hand hesitates, but she doesn't pull away.

— You're so full of yourself, Malik — she says, rolling her eyes, but her voice is softer now, almost shy. My breathing gets a bit heavier, but I force myself to keep it light. If she keeps noticing my injuries, she'll start asking questions.

— Full of myself? I don't know what you're talking about — I joke, trying to ease the tension. I lean in a little closer, almost feeling her breath against my skin. — I'm just testing a theory...

She raises an eyebrow, now visibly more comfortable with the teasing.

— And what theory would that be? — I smile.

— That deep down, you like me more than you're willing to admit.

She gives me a light shove, laughing.