5 - edited

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It's been a while. I'm sorry about that, hope you still like this book.

Enjoy
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It's been a few days, and Ace and I have grown closer—physically and emotionally. His willingness to open up more might have something to do with our intimate encounter a few days ago. It's amusing to see the softer side of a mafia boss, a fact I'd often teased him about. Today, he's busy with a significant meeting in his office, which I was specifically instructed to avoid.

Sitting on the leather couch, I sipped tea and scrolled through my phone, recently returned to me. It was void of any messages from my family or social media, which I half-expected. Besides, Ace had taught me some fighting and self-defense techniques as a precaution. He also discreetly installed a tracking device in my phone and a cross necklace, a subtle yet monitored gift.

Setting my drink on the coaster, I watched YouTube when I heard the office door creak open and shut. Ace joined me, expressing annoyance. "What happened?" I inquired. He explained, "I was trying to figure out why the other guy chose my rival, but he wouldn't divulge." Nodding, I remarked softly, "Most people won't."

Turning off the video and setting aside my phone, I approached Ace, wrapping my arms around him. His tense demeanor eased, and he relaxed into the embrace. I found solace in the fact that he could unwind when I was near without any inappropriate intentions.

Hours passed in that comfortable state until Jerry walked in. "Boss," he said softly, interrupting our moment. Ace received news that Vic, another crime boss, wished to speak with him urgently. Ace abruptly stood up, startling me. I groaned while getting up as I watched his sudden shift in demeanor, like a skilled actor transitioning into a role.

Returning the cup to the kitchen, I ensured groceries were arranged for the following day. It's the day Ace plans to host a get-together with friends and family, and I intended to cook. One of Vic's men lingered by the door, casting menacing glares my way, which I ignored. Ace's men were gradually warming up to me, understanding the importance of treating Ace's "precious baby" with respect, as Ace had jokingly referred to me.

Feeling a chilling grip on my shoulder, I gripped the countertop as the guy forcefully pulled me, demanding I go with him. His cold voice and rough hands sent shivers down my spine. Despite my cry for help, he covered my mouth and dragged me out of the house. I caught sight of Jerry rushing with his gun, but my arms were restrained, my mouth muffled, and the scent of chloroform overwhelmed me as I blacked out.

Ace's Perspective

I heard Jackson's cry and witnessed Jerry's panicked entry. "Sir, sir, sir," Jerry kept repeating. "Speak," I demanded. His news that Vic's men had taken Jackson sent my heart sinking and my anger boiling. I activated an alarm via my desk and summoned my men. Vic was escorted to our "guest" room, a place used for extreme measures until I could locate Jackson. He'd face my wrath until then.

Some of my men were dispatched to gather information while others stayed. "Be prepared for a confrontation; rest and gear up," I instructed them, trying to maintain composure, as Jackson often advised. I prayed they hadn't harmed him; if they had, they were as good as dead. I'd go to any lengths to rescue Jackson, even facing the entire U.S. army if needed.

I sat at my computer, feeling an overwhelming sense of protectiveness and love towards someone I had kidnapped. Jackson had a hold on me, and I felt lost without him for more than ten minutes. It was almost pitiful how I felt like a puppy without its owner or a baby in his absence.

"Sir, we'll bring him back," Jerry reassured, placing a hand on my shoulder. "I know, but it's terrifying to think about," I admitted, a sentiment shared by everyone present. Charles, one of my crew, sacrificed time with his family for their safety. Samuels worried about his younger sister, only meeting her when she visited the compound. The weight of responsibility weighed on the shoulders of most in my crew, and my concern was now focused solely on Jackson.

Four Hours Later

I stood beside Vic's unconscious body. "Samuels, any information?" I asked, but Samuels indicated Vic remained tight-lipped. Frustrated, I ordered them to extract information forcefully. I was informed that the tracking device seemed jammed, leaving me restless. I attempted to sleep, a futile effort without Jackson by my side.

Lying in the king-size bed, the empty space seemed vast. The cold sheets amplified my sense of loneliness, and I tossed and turned until sleep finally overtook me.

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