A dangerous kiss
Aria was out with her newly acquainted friend group at the downtown club. Not only was she new to the city, but she was also discovering the freedom of her independence.
Many called her an outgoing spirit, often known as the roaring phoenix. She was courageous, fierce, and open-minded, making everyone envy her powerful persona. But… like every woman, she had her own side of silliness.
“Aria! Come have a drink with me!” shouted Mia.
The lights flickered to the grooving music, and the night seemed young for everyone swaying their bodies on the glossy dance floor.
Mia shouted again, more aggressively, “Aria Lockhart!”
The dancing phoenix swooned her way to her good friend, Mia Brown. The wine and the music made her body revel in amusement.
“Mia, my very good friend! Why must you tear my enjoyment apart?” Aria whined, taking another shot of vodka.
“Well, if I can't have fun, neither can you, my dear. I've seen every guy here eyeing you, but none seems to be worthy of this queen at all.” Mia sighed, resting her head on the fine polished counter.
An engaging vibration on Aria’s thigh gave her chills. Wanting to take the call, she gave a quick kiss goodbye to Mia.
“Mi amor! I miss you so muchhhh. I’m outside right now, so I can’t talk much. Is there something you need?”
He spoke nervously, unlike usual. “Listen, Aria… I don’t think we are meant for each other. You don’t let me touch you, nor let me hold you. You only use your insecurities as an excuse around me, but never around other guys.”
Aria held herself together. “What do you mean, Julian. What are you talking about? I’ve never let other guys touch me.”
“Oh, but you did, Aria. You seem innocent and perfect, but the truth is… you’re sly. I thought I knew you better, but I was wrong. If your best friend hadn’t told me, I would’ve fallen for your trap. I’ve cheated on you with her. I like Emily more than you — at least she’s honest with me and wealthy, though not as much as you. I never wanted you anyway. Goodbye, Aria.”
And just after he spoke her name for the last time, she lost herself in its echo.
Her mind replayed his words, and her heart bled in silence. The night stretched endlessly before her, and the stars seemed to shine brighter with every tear she blinked away.
Her soul comforted her broken heart, and her mind tried to escape memories that stung at every second. She shook herself, swaying back toward the club’s doorway.
Just before she entered, a strong force caught her from behind. Nothing seemed processable tonight, and without resistance, she felt a soft, sweet kiss on her lips.
The man held her tighter with every second, savoring her softness. Her body melted to his touch, letting out a quiet, innocent moan.
He lifted her hands above her head, locking them together, and continued the kiss. Their lips and tongues danced in overwhelming desire.
Her mind didn’t comprehend the danger, but she was aware of the strange desire growing within her. After a few minutes, he released her.
Aria had never shared a first kiss, nor let a man hold her. It was a promise to herself to give it only to her soulmate. But tonight, that promise clashed with her hidden desires, and her conscious mind tried to suppress what her body wanted.
The man scanned the alleyway, making sure they were safe from prying eyes. Before he could apologize, a sharp slap landed on his cheek.
“You filthy fool! Do you know what you’ve done to me?! You can never repay me for this injustice!” Aria shouted, her pain growing stronger by the second.
“Woman… you could never repay me for the slap, not even with your life. Be grateful I chose you,” he replied, his deep voice firm.
“Be grateful? Are you kidding me? Who would want to be grateful for being kissed by you? The orphans down the street? Get a life!” She growled, fiercely.
“Do you know who you’re talking to? Seems like you’re new around here.” He held her again, a bit tighter.
“You are none of my business, you self-absorbed psycho.” She pushed him away and rushed back inside the club.
An army of bodyguards seemed to appear in the alley within seconds. Helicopters and cars surrounded the area, but only a few could reach him through the narrow pathway.
“Boss! Are you okay?!” shouted the men, rushing toward him. He was lost in his own world, trying to process what had just happened.
“Boss… he slapped you? We apologize for not arriving sooner! We await your orders to take him out tonight. Please spare mercy on us…” the men pleaded. He didn’t respond.
“I want you to find information about a woman in this club. Her name… Aria Lockhart.” He ordered, his sly smirk still lingering as he entered his luxurious car.
