Sofia's POV:

My heart raced as I walked down the hall, leading to my fathers office, my footsteps were heavy and loud to
let him know I was coming his way.
I placed my hand on the door knob and turned it slowly, hesitant to walk in. But I did so anyway.
I stood confidently infront of my father determined not to let him see my fear. "Yes father?" I questioned
strongly, standing infront of his wooden desk that filled half of the room. It had papers that were wet from
him previously spilling his beer bottle, which he had also gathered a little pile in his room. The room was
dim and his curtains were closed, not letting the sun light through.
The intimidation was seeping out of him, yet his back was to me as he spoke.
"You are my youngest child, and only daughter" he declared with a careless but demanding tone. "You are
going to get married to Ace Hernandez" my father put out his cigarette as he turned his chair around to see my
reaction. My heart beat froze from just hearing the name. Ace Hernandez as in the Ace Hernandez. "They
own one of the biggest Mafia's father" I responded with fear in my voice. I didn't want to marry someone
because of their power, I wanted to marry someone who I loved and trusted. Someone who respect me and
care for me.
"Exactly, you will meet him in a week, you will make a good impression or else you will be punished,
understand" my father hissed demandingly, gritting his teeth in anger.
The stench of alcohol filled the room. He was drunk as usual, I shouldn't be surprised. "Y....yes father" I
choked back my tears, trying not to let him see my weakness. "Be a good girl and leave your father alone" He
grumbled turning his chair away from me. A tear rolled down my cheek as I shut the door quietly.
I quickly wiped my tear away as I strutted down the hall.
I headed straight for my room, shutting the door behind me. I lay down on my bed, feeling overwhelmed by
hopelessness and shock. I had mixed emotions; I didn't know this man. Ace could be abusive, aggressive,
violent, loud and even worse, a drunk like my own father. Not to mention Ace does not have the best
reputation in the Mafia. I could be stuck with a man who's exactly like my father and I wouldn't be able to do
anything about it.
Lost in my thoughts, I heard a light knock on my door. "Sofia" my mother uttered softly before entering my
room. "Mama" I responded sadly as I frowned, finally letting the sadness consume me. My mom wrapped her
arms around me, trying to comfort me the best she could.
She rubbed my back soothingly as my eyes watered. "Your father told me today what he planning Princess, I
wouldn't have let him, if I'd of known sooner" she tried to hold back the emotion in her voice. "I know" I
sighed, hugging my mom tighter than before. "Your brothers are not going to be happy about this, especially
Raul" My mom shook her head disappointedly, not able to make eye contact with me.
Raul was my oldest brother and surprisingly I get along with him the best. I have 4 other brothers so 5
brothers in total. Raul, Marco, Stefano, Javi and the youngest boy Diego. We were all only a year apart. I am
17, Diego's 18, Javi's 19, Stefano's 20, Marco's 21 and Raul is 22 topping the list and being the heir to our
mafia empire.
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We were all Spanish but my father had forbidden us from learning Spanish because he uses it to talk to his
friends and Mafia alliances so that we can't listen to the conversation and know his idea's unless he wanted
us to.
"Anyways Princess, come down and eat with your family, dinner is ready" My mom spoke calmly as she
stroked a strand of my loose hair behind my ear. She stood up and walked out; I followed my mom shortly
after.
"Heyyyy Sof" Raul cheered, hugging me before seeing the stains on my cheeks from the tears. "What's wrong"
Raul asked worriedly, making all my other brothers stare at me. "Nothing, just a long day" I smiled
reassuringly, sitting down at the table. I watched my father walk in with not a care in the world.
We all ate and everyone was talking about their day. "So Sofia, how was your day ?" Diego questioned me.
My father stared at me sternly while he cut his steak, his harsh look warning me not to tell them. "Boring" I
replied with a small smile before cutting into my own steak awkwardly. They all blinked at me a couple
times, but shrugged it off before going back to talking.
"I have an announcement" my fathers deep voice boomed from the top of the table, grabbing our attention
immediately. All my brothers immediately stopped talking instantly since it was one of my fathers many
rules.
If I talk, stop what you are doing immediately and listen.
"Your sister is getting married soon" He declared, standing his ground. I saw Raul's face drop and suddenly
become flooded with rage. "Surely you can't be allowing this!" Raul jumped up angrily. "Sit down boy, I
haven't finished speaking" my father spat at Raul causing him to slowly sit back down in fear.
"It was my decision" My fathers voice echoed through the room. "She's 17!" Marco slammed his fist on the
table in anger. "How can you allow this" Diego yelled disgusted at Mama. "She's the youngest of us all, you
can't do this!" Raul pointed furiously at me while my mother tried to calm him down. I sat at the table quietly
as I continued to eat my food.
The table was chaotic with the noise of my brothers as I stayed silent, not wanting to be punished.
"STOP" my father roared, scaring us all. "I have a head ache and I don't have time for this arguing, it's
happening, whether you boys agree with it or not" My father hissed at my brothers through his gritted teeth,
before walking out of the kitchen. My father never called my brothers men, I think he does it to belittle them.
They're amazing men in my eyes.
Raul left the table and stormed out of the room; He was more upset about this than I was.
"You be careful" Stefano warned me, pointing his knife at me. "Yes, I will be" I nodded reassuringly, trying
to finally put this argument to rest. I knew no one could change my father's mind, he has always preferred the
boys anyways.
"We have to go train Sof, we'll be back soon" Javi got up from the table and patted my head as he walked by,
making me smile slightly. Diego, Marco and Stefano following close behind Javi. My hair was a mess by the
time they had all finished patting my head.
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I smiled and shook my head. They still treat me like a child.
"Your brothers adore you" my mom spoke up, staring at the food on her plate with regret. "Raul couldn't even
look at me, he was so disgusted" my mother mumbled as a tear ran down her cheek. "Mama, it's okay, it's not
your fault" I reassured her as I washed my plate at the sink.
"He told me just before he told you, I was so angry but it was out my power; I just hope you understand" my
mom strolled over to me.
She brushed my hair out of my face with her hand. "I love you, my princess" she grabbed my face gently,
planting a kiss on my cheek. "I love you too Mama" I responded, trying not to cry. "You will be okay, do you
understand?" My mom raised her eyebrows at me questionably. I nodded frantically before she pulled me
into her arms.
"I don't want to go Mama" I finally admitted as she rubbed my back. "You can't be stuck in this house
forever" my mom muttered to me.
"What about school" I panicked as I stared worriedly at her. "You will still go to school, well, that's if Ace
allows you" my mom froze thinking of him.
Ace had a cruel and merciless reputation that has not been broken to this day. Although I haven't heard
anything in particular about him. It's like everyone in the Mafia knows who he is but he's still mysterious in a
sense.

I can't believe I have to do this but this is a warning. If I see any spoilers on my book or any rr's giving
away little hints and spoiling it for people, I won't hesitate to block you. I dont need people ruining the
experience for other people. Guys be cautious when reading comments, I can only delete so many
spoilers.
——————
I apologise in advance for the cringe lmao. The book is currently being edited so if the grammar
changes half way through you know why.

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Exactly a week had passed.
Today was the day I was going to meet Ace.
I was going to meet him at a party where all the men and women dress up so hopefully another woman will
catch his eye. We dress up so dramatically to show off our money, not to mention you want to be the most
attractive person in the room. Anyways my father said it's arranged so even if Ace did find another girl
attractive, he couldn't have her.
I had my dress on.

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I had done my make up and my mom had finished doing my hair.
"You look beautiful my princess" my mom squealed at me. "Thank you Mama" I replied with a small smirk
before Raul knocked on my door.
Raul escorted me down to the front door as we waited for the limousine.
My father finally came out of his office, minutes before we had to leave. "The limo is on it's way" He rolled
his eyes with no sign of emotion in his voice; He couldn't wait to get rid of me. I didn't look at my father,
purely because I didn't have to.
"I'm not happy about this!" Raul stated furiously to my father, letting his opinion on the situation be known.
"Raul, stop it" my mother hissed at him. "You do not get a say in this, none of you do" my father spat
viciously. I could see his breath from the air being so cold. "You take that jacket off immediately, once we
get inside, understood" my father growled at me . I nodded repeatedly.
The limo finally pulled up, me and my brothers got into the car. My mom helped get my dress into the limo as
my father sat impatiently. "Faster" he snarled at my mom. "It was you who wanted this dress" I glared at him
angrily, reminding him that I would've been perfectly happy wearing sweatpants and sweatshirt to the ball.
My father's stare snapped towards me.
I had forgotten my manners for a moment.
I felt like shrinking up into a ball while his cold, intense glare was glued to me. "Do not speak to me like
that" he hissed at me, showing his 'dominance'. I didn't dare to stare in his direction; He grabbed my chin
roughly and forced me look at him. "Understand?" He growled, inches away from my face. "Y...yes" I
whimpered quickly due to the pain of him squeezing my chin. He released his grip on my face before scoffing
at his own thoughts.
My mom stared at my father in shock while Raul took my hand and held it tight. I sat in silence as I tried not
to tear up. "You're bringing her to another man, the least you could do is give her a good memory of you or at
least a decent one" my mom folded her arms sternly as she ignored my father. All my brothers stared at me
but I couldn't work up the courage to look at them.

P 2-1
My arm interlinked with Raul's as we walked into the ball. I shivered in the massive hall due to the dropping
temperature, where people were gathering slowly. It had just started to snow outside for the first time in a
few years. "Take that fucking jacket off you immediately!" my father gripped the rim my shawl and ripped it
from my freezing body. "But father...." I squeaked quietly, upset. "Don't even speak to me, I'm this close to
beating you" he hissed into my ear so that no one else could hear, making shivers run down my spine. He
showed me the tiniest gap between his thumb and finger. Why can't I keep my mouth shut?.
I saw a lot of people standing around and some were just staring at me; Don't they know that it's rude to
stare?. But sadly, it's one of the many downsides to being in one of the biggest mafia's in the world; if they're
able, they will watch you.
"Everyone always watches us" I muttered under my breath to Raul as we stared at the crowds of people.
"They stare at me because they're afraid, they stare you simply because you are beautiful yet powerful; like a
rose" Raul smiled gently at me. "I'm sorry I can't stop this arrangement, I wanted you to find love on your
own" Raul grumbled disappointedly as he shook his head, staring at the floor.
"Maybe it won't be so bad" I shrugged, trying to look on the bright side when suddenly the doors opened and
the room fell silent.
"It's Ace"
"Ace....Hernandez"
"I've heard he's ruthless, merciless"
"I wouldn't want to get on his bad side"
So many whispers were flying around the room. I watched a few guards come in and there he was, Ace
Hernandez. The man I was arranged to marry.
His foots steps echoed through the room, filling the crowds with immense fear. I had a bad feeling about him.
I finally got to see his face. He was very attractive. Not a single flaw on his face yet he had to go and ruin it
by being a murderer. I noticed the skull tattoo on the side of his neck. It was the symbol of his mafia but in
way more detail.
His attractiveness was intimidating so I couldn't imagine how insecure the guys felt when he walked in.
Ace slowly scanned the room, girls practically drooling over him as he glanced their direction. But then he
spotted me. He stopped turning as he stood a few feet in front of me. He gazed at me from across the big hall,
not breaking eye contact. He looked at me up and down before noticing my father.
My father approached Ace very quickly, barely giving the man a chance to breathe.
"Mr.Hernandez, it's nice to see you again" my dad blurted out, reminding him that they had met. I had never
witnessed my father so unprofessional; I could see him trying to bury his fear.
"Yes and your daughter, what is her name?" Ace uttered urgently, not paying the slightest bit of attention to
my father. "Daughter" my dad shouted at me.
Raul wish me luck before I strolled reluctantly towards my fathers. My other brothers couldn't even watch.

P 2-2
Diego was facing the window. I don't blame them. Watching your sibling being given away, who would want
to watch that.
I saw a smirk appear on Ace's face as I approached them. "Father" I nodded obediently.
"This is Ace, Ace Hernandez" my father introduced him proudly; He seemed more proud of Ace than any of
his own sons. "Ace, this is my daughter" my father stopped speaking at daughter. Ace turned his attention to
my father. "So she doesn't have a name?" Ace questioned my father with a hint of anger in the question. "She
does, not that she deserves it" my father laughed expecting him to chuckle along but Ace's facial expression
turned into anger.
"What is your name?" Ace raised his eyebrow at me. "I'm Sofia Diaz" I spoke confidently with a polite tone.
Ace held out his hand and I flinched slightly. He frowned his eyebrows in confusion before I shook off my
momentary weakness and continued to shake his hand.
"I assume this is who I'm marrying?" Ace announced to my father . "Yes , you will be marrying Sofia" my
father nodded, confirming Ace's thoughts.
"Okay, we're leaving now" Ace demanded as he wrapped an arm around my waist, forcing me to walk with
him. "Can I say goodbye to my brothers" I pleaded with Ace as I glanced back, every single one of my
brothers in shock. "No you can't" Ace continued to walk and forced me to walk with him. Ace opened the
limo door and I climbed in; Purely because I didn't have a choice.
Yes, Ace was devilishly handsome, but he gave off a cold vibe. How could the king of hell be so cold?.
Ace sat next to me in the limo. The silence was deafening. I didn't want to speak, or look at Ace. I knew that
if I had made a big deal, he probably would've punished me like my father.
"Wayne will have your room ready when we get back to the house" Ace's deep husky voice spoke.
I nodded for a reply. "I'd prefer a thank you" Ace hissed at me, rolling his eyes. "Thanks" I mumbled, not
very thankful.
It didn't make sense?. Those ball's are usually held mainly for business and to build alliances so why didn't
Ace try align with people? I was probably asking a stupid question, he does control the biggest Mafia in the
world so why would he need allies.
The limo arrived at Ace's mansion. "Ace you're back" a woman who was small and frail greeted him at the
door with a cheerful tone. "Mama, I told you to get some rest" I heard Ace say.
"Ahhh I'm okay, just a little sick, so let me see, who is she?" His mom asked eagerly.
Ace opened the car door for me and I stepped out. "Hi" I smiled politely as I held my hand out for her to
shake it. "Ahhh she's beautiful" His mom embraced me in her arms.
"Where's father?" Ace asked his mom. I tensed up at the word father. "He is in his office" she scoffed, rolling
her eyes at the thoughts of him which wasn't a good sign.
"Of course" Ace grumbled angrily.
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"Let me show you to your room" Ace's mom offered while she beamed happily.
Ace was very handsome. He had light brown hair that was good a length, bright blue eyes, tanned skin,
tattoos that stretched up his left arm, muscular but he lacked a personality. It's like he was empty; It's like he
was a robot.
Ace strutted into the mansion and walked up the stairs. His mom lead me to my room. "Ace picked out the
clothes and furniture himself which is rare I have to admit" His mom explained as we walked into the room.

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The room itself was beautiful. It was dark yet cozy at the same time.
"Your clothes are in this closet here and if you need anything feel free to ask Ace" His mom smiled
welcomingly after pointing her finger at the wardrobe. "Thank you" I nodded as I sat on the bed, not sure
what to think about the whole situation. "Oh, I almost forgot, my name is Denice" she snickered after shaking
her head at her forgetfulness.
"Dinner will be ready soon, dear" Denice uttered before leaving the room.
'I should probably get out of my dress' I thought as I tried to unzip the back of it. The zip was stuck right at the
top.
"Oh shit" I mumbled to myself.

P 2-4
I took off my heels as I heard Denice shout up to me.
"Dinner" she yelled up the stairs.
I wandered downstairs, still in my dress which was embarrassing yet I had no choice. I didn't know these
people, I can't trust one of them to unzip dress, even if I did end up asking, Ace would probably be angry that
it wasn't him.
I saw a man sitting at the table and he didn't give off a good vibe to say the least; He was very intimidating
like my own father.
"Sofia, this is my husband Kai" Denice introduced me. "I'm Sofia" I responded quickly with a warm smile
before sitting down next to Denice.
I heard heavy and fast paced footsteps coming heading this way from the hall.
"Fucking Vipers" Ace snarled at his father before sitting down. He clenched his jaw angrily, trying to calm
himself down. "Mama how was your day?" Ace asked, his tone shifted as he tried to take his mind off of his
Mafia. Ace clenched his hands together, resting his chin on them. I noticed the tattoo's on his fingers, leading
down his arms. He had a few on his hand and then a sleeve of them going up his arm.
I focused on eating and tried not to make conversation or eye contact. "So Ace....." Kai raised his voice from
the end of the table. I almost jumped at how suddenly loud he was.
Ace's cold stare made its way toward his fathers intimidating glance. "Who's your friend?" Kai, Ace's father
asked curiously, with a slightly evil smirk. I avoided eye contact with him. "What the fuck do you mean
who's your friend?" Ace yelled at his father due to him already being wound up because of the Mafia.
"You're the one who made this fucking arrangement" Ace growled furiously at his father. He obviously
wasn't very happy with this 'arrangement' either. "That's no way to speak especially with a guest at the table"
Kai teased Ace, trying to wind him up.
Ace stood up, his fists clenched showing me that he was definitely. "She's not a guest, she's my fucking
fiancé" Ace snarled at his father before storming out.
Ace's mother sighed defeatedly. "You always have to wind him up" Denice shook her head disappointedly at
her husband. "He gets too angry too easily" Kai replied as he rolled his eyes. "My son has some anger issues,
if you can't tell" Kai chuckled to me as if I was supposed to laugh along. "I think he was right to be angry" I
spoke up shyly.
"I heard your father beats his children if they're disrespectful" Kai blurted out while he scowled at me. I
froze as soon I heard my father's name. "KAI" Denice snapped. "Maybe I could take his place and teach you
some manners, Ace wouldn't care" Kai threatened me with an evil smirk. I didn't reply, purely because I was
in shock; I didn't think that I had said anything rude.
Then we heard talking in the hall.
"Get upstairs" I heard Ace's deep voice say. "Of course Ace" she replied obediently. "Is that another one of
his prostitutes" Kai rolled his eyes. Denice sighed. My eyes widened at Kai's comment.

P 3-1
"My son and husband have no respect for women" Denice shook her head at her family. "Ahhh leave him
alone, he's blowing off steam and I do have respect for women" Kai defended his son for once. "It's the only
time he's a man" Kai snarled angrily.
I wasn't disappointed with Ace, I didn't expect him to stop whatever he was doing for me. That would be like
him asking me to stop doing what I had planned.
"I have a question" I muttered to Kai and Denice. "What is it?" Kai rested his chin on his hand . "Can I
continue going to school?" I mumbled, biting my lip nervously. Kai erupted into laughter.
Me and Denice stared at him until he tried to calm his laughter. "Oh wait, you're serious?" He stopped
laughing while blinking curiously at me. "Yes, I enjoy school" I replied shrugging carelessly. I wasn't afraid
to admit I liked going to school since it was the only place I could get away from my father. Kai thought
about it for awhile. "I mean, I don't mind it so I guess it would be okay" Kai grumbled as he ate his food. "Go
to school" he chuckled under his breath.
"Um I need a school bag and stationary" I responded awkwardly. "You'll have them by tomorrow" Denice
smiled as stood up and place my plate in the sink. "Thank you for the food" I smiled politely as I walked
upstairs. "You're too kind dear" Denice replied as Kai was still chuckling to himself.
I can go to school tomorrow.
I still couldn't get this dress off of me. As I walked up the stairs I saw a girl who was wearing barely any
clothes, leave while tears were flowing down her cheeks. She gave me a nasty look before she ran out of the
mansion. I widened my eyes as I shook my head. What did he do to her ?.
"Ace Hernandez, the devil" I thought to myself as I opened my bedroom door.
I tried as hard as I could to get the dress of but I couldn't reach the zip.
I sighed defeatedly as I strolled down the hallway; I think this is his room due to it being the only room with
light coming from it. I knocked lightly on the door, scared to disturb him. "What" I heard a growl come from
behind the door. I slowly pushed open the door to see Ace standing while facing his window, shirtless.
"Sofia" he mumbled, my name rolling off his tongue so smoothly. "I didn't mean to disturb you, I just need you
to unzip my dress, I can't do it myself since it's stuck" I asked awkwardly as I rubbed the back of my neck.
He turned around. I stared at his perfectly sculpted body . He had big, broad shoulders and perfectly defined
abs. "Turn around" Ace demanded and I did as he said. He moved my long hair out of the way, grazing my
neck with the touch of his fingers.
His touch made me feel ...... good?.
He ran his finger from the top of my neck down to the zip of my dress, sending shivers down my spine. His
touch left tingles through out my body. He zipped it down slowly and effortlessly, his face inching closer to
mine from behind me. I felt like such an idiot; he did that with complete ease.
The zip finally came to a stop. "Goodnight" Ace whispered in my ear, causing my breath to hitch.
"Goodnight" I responded quickly as I walked out, holding my dress up.

P 3-2
I sighed a breath of relief as I shut my bedroom door. Everything about him is intense; From his stare to his
touch.
I slid off my dress and put on a pair of shorts and a sweatshirt. I lay in bed as I set my alarm on my phone.
Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.

P 3-3
I woke up at 7 am to the sound of my alarm.
I slowly got up and changed into some clothes for school; More specifically, jeans and a t-shirt.
I walked downstairs to see a black school bag and school stuff on the table. Who got this stuff for me, I
could've just used my old materials but I am grateful. I sat at the table while I looked through the materials. "I
hope that's okay for you" Denice asked, appearing out of thin air and almost frightening me.
"Yeah it's great, thank you" I spoke groggily but as polite as I could while I rested my head on the table. I
eventually noticed the time and realised I had to leave. "Have a good day" Denice waved at me. I waved in
response before replying with "you too". At least she was trying to be polite.
—————————
I reached school after a decently long walk.
I strolled towards the lockers before being blinded by a pair of hands. "Guess who" the person giggled
evilly. "Mmm I have no idea" I replied sarcastically, knowing exactly who it was.
"It's your best friend" she uncovered my eyes. "Hey Olivia" I said before hugging her. "Hey girl" she cheered
and wrapped her arms around me. "It's been one crazy weekend" I mumbled, resting my head on her
shoulder. "You can tell me all about it at lunch" she said happily, while we walked slowly to class.
We wandered down the halls, talking about everything and nothing when Olivia whispered something to me.
"Blake is checking you out".
"No he's not, stop" I whispered at her, before glancing over in Blake's direction and almost making eye
contact with him.
"Oh my god, he makes it so obvious" Olivia grinned. "Okay it's not like he's going to talk ......- Sofia" I was
interrupted by Blake who had approached me and Olivia while we were whispering.
Blake used to be one of my bestfriends as a kid. He left for a few years and returned only this year, looking a
lot different than when he left. He wasn't scrawny anymore and he was the captain of the football team. He
was tall and muscular , with black hair and blue eyes.
"Sofia" I heard a deep voice call me . I sighed hesitantly as I stared at Olivia grinning. "Hi" I smiled as I
turned around. "Hey" Blake beamed happily. "I know we haven't really spoken since I got back but I was
wondering if you wanted to come to my game tonight?" He questioned hopeful.
I didn't want to disappoint him and maybe there could be something there. "Okay" I nodded. "Great, I'll see
you then" he smirked as he jogged back to his buddies in the hall.
I heard them all cheer as Blake was smiling like an idiot. "He really likes you, and he's very attractive"
Olivia nudged me. "He wouldn't be able to handle my life style" I replied quickly. "You can't shut every guy
down because you're afraid of getting hurt, just please, try with him for me" Olivia pouted as she pleaded
with me.

P 4-1
"Fine" I shook my head while grinning. If Ace was allowed be with other girls, why can't I be with other
guys?.
—————————
It had just turned 4pm and the bell had rang.
"I'm coming with you to the field, of course I have to watch my baby play" Olivia mumbled as she appeared
from thin air. She was talking about her boyfriend Ryder.
"Good" I nodded.
We sat down at the bleachers. "Aye, Diaz, I heard you're here for my boy Blake" Ryder joked as he pecked
Olivia on the lips. "Yeah, I said I'd come watch him play" I shrugged carelessly. "He's very excited" Ryder
smirked raising his eyebrow.
I rolled my eyes as I giggled. "Good luck baby" Olivia yelled. Ryder blew a kiss to her as he jogged back
onto the field. Sometimes they make me want to throw up.
It was half time and I was talking to Olivia. "You came" Blake smiled at me, coming over to the bleachers.
"Yeah, I thought I'd check it out" I nodded staring up at him. "I'm glad, I have to get back onto the field, talk
after though" he smirked before he ran up to Ryder on the field.
"He's in love with you already" Olivia giggled excitedly.
My phone was suddenly flooded with messages.
"Where are you"
"Come home now"
"School ended an hour ago"
"Hurry the fuck up"
"Right that's it, I'm coming to get you"
Why was I only getting these now ?.
"Shit" I frantically grabbed my bag from under our seat. Then I saw him, Ace . He walked towards the
bleachers. I swear I could see fire in his eyes. "Holy smokes" Olivia's jaw dropped at the sight of Ace. "I
know he's hot, now shut up" I hissed at Olivia. "Where the fuck were you?" Ace shouted at me, grabbing
everyone on the bleacher's attention. "I was here" I uttered, afraid to speak due to how angry he was.
The whole football team stopped playing because of the scene that Ace was making.
"We need to get home....now" Ace demanded, his voice full of rage as he stood at the bottom of the
bleachers. I walked down to Ace. I walked beside him as we left .
"Sofia?" Blake called out for me. I watched Ace's face become more angry than he already was. "Where are
you going?" Blake grabbed my arm. I flinched turning to Ace. Ace's anger was now focused at Blake instead
of me. "Did I say you could touch her?" Ace snarled at Blake. "You shouldn't have to say if I can touch her"
Blake snapped back at Ace.
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Ace was taller and more muscular than Blake. "Blake, I'm okay I promise" I muttered quietly as stood next to
Ace. Ace hadn't hurt me and I have no reason to believe he would want to; he was just scary.
"Get out of here before I beat the shit out of you" Ace warned Blake, squaring up to him. "And what if I ...."
Blake was interrupted by Ace's fist colliding with his jaw.
I stumbled back due to Ace's sudden burst of anger. Was it really sudden though?.
Blake lay on the floor, in a haze, with blood spilling from his mouth. My eyes watered at the sight. One punch
from Ace did that.
I gasped in shock at the sight of Blake as the whole football team stared in amazement. "Fuck" Ace grumbled
holding his fist. He turned towards me. I flinched, thinking that Ace was going to. But I didn't feel anything.
Ace just stared at me weirdly. "Get into the fucking car" he grumbled viciously. I basically ran to the car
worriedly.
I sat in the front seat with Ace.
The drive was silent.
"Why did you protect yourself?" Ace's deep voice questioned me. I stared up at him before looking back
down at my hands and playing with my hands. He stopped my hands with his. "Answer me!" He snapped. It
seemed like he hadn't calmed down at all.
"No reason" I gulped as I watched his hand that was still on mine. He didn't say anything.
"You're lying" he finally spoke up. "I'll find out what happened to you" he muttered with a determined tone.
"Why do you care?" I uttered, glancing up at him. Ace raised his eyebrow at me . He raised his hand in the
air to mimic hitting me and I flinched again.
"Fuck" I whispered to myself. "That's why" he replied with a disgusted face; I wasn't quite sure what he was
disgusted at. "Just leave it alone, it's not important" I mumbled, acting carelessly as I stared out the window
at the passing cars.
"You should know if you're going to marry me, I'm not going to hit you" he finally spoke as if he had been
holding that in since our conversation.
He knew exactly what was wrong with me, he just wanted to hear me say it.
"You're very angry, you'll get angry at me and then you'll get used to it" I shrugged shyly, glancing at him . "I
don't hit women, especially one that's going to be my wife" he cleared his throat, stopping the car. I barely
knew this guy and he was going to be my husband.
I'm not going to take his word. He will have to prove it through his actions.

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We sat at dinner.
I quietly ate as the three of them talked.
"Could I be allowed to see my brothers?" I finally asked, working up the courage considering the last time I
tried to speak up at dinner, I almost got into some serious shit.
Ace's deadly glance shot towards me. I froze when his eyes met mine, I was unable to speak. "No" his deep
voice responded quickly with a slight grumble of irritation. I felt my heart drop to my stomach. I loved my
brothers, not being allowed to see them was killing me.
"P...please?" I begged at the table with a soft tone so that I didn't come off as demanding.
Ace's father began to chuckle evilly.
The expression on Ace's face became more irritated. "How dare you!" Ace's father's voice boomed through
the empty dining room suddenly, filling me with fear.
I saw the lifeless expression on Ace's face as he just watched his father. "I'm sorry" I muttered worriedly as I
put my knife and fork down.
"That's it, she's going to the basement" Kai demanded, yelling at his family. My eyes widened as Kai stood
up from the table and approached where I was sitting. "No please" I whimpered in terror, being reminded of
my father. I knew all too well what happens in the basement; Beatings. Kai grabbed my wrist only to be
distracted by Ace standing up.
Ace's heavy footsteps approached us. I'd rather have his father beat me than him.
But he did something I wasn't expecting. Ace grabbed his father's wrist roughly, forcing his father to release
his grip on me. His father's eyes widening at him. "She is going to be my wife, if you lay a finger on her
again, I won't hesitate to burn you alive" Ace growled furiously at his father. Kai groaned in pain from Ace
crushing his wrist with his grip.
"You think you're the devil, but I'm one with the nickname" Ace whispered into his father's ear with a look of
fire in his eyes.
"I'll take you to see them tomorrow after school" Ace turned to me. I nodded frantically before leaving the
room and scrambling to get up the stairs. I'm in constant fear that I'll be abused again due to the fact that his
father seems to be a lot like mine.
I could hear muffled yelling from downstairs.
I lay in bed and pulled the pillow over my ears.
I've wanted to..... not die..... but disappear lately. It's a lot harder when you're marrying into a violent family
and already had violent one previously.
I ended up climbing out of bed and doing my homework before going to sleep.

P 5-1
————————
My eyes fluttered open to see Ace standing out in the hall. "You will let her see her brothers or I promise, I
will kill you" Ace hissed angrily into the phone. "I always keep my promises" he threatened just before he
hung up.
I held the blankets up to my face so that only my eyes were visible.
Ace turned towards my room. "I didn't mean to wake you" He uttered, staring at me. There was a certain
coldness in his stare. "It's okay...." I responded quickly, still holding the blankets up.
"That was your father.....if you were wondering" Ace sighed as he walked into my room. I noticed that he
closed the door behind him.
"If my father does anything to you, you tell me, do you hear me?!" He warned me, whispering so that his
father couldn't hear. I nodded slightly. I feel like he was demanding me to tell him because he wanted to help
but knew that if anything happened I wouldn't willingly speak up.
There was an awkward silence filling the air as I avoided eye contact with him.
"Your father..... nevermind" I quickly shut my mouth after grabbing Ace's attention and releasing I didn't want
it. I'm so stupid, why would I even mention that?. His father probably didn't even mean it.
"My father what?" He stared cautiously at me. I knew he wasn't going to let it go until I said it. ".....It was
stupid, it doesn't matter" I muttered quietly, becoming shy as I pulled the blankets up to my face. He grabbed
the blankets away from me. "Sofia ..... tell me" Ace had a slight growl in his voice.
I gulped while he glared at me with his frowned eyebrows. "He said he'd replace my father" I uttered softly
as I stared at the blankets that were clenched in his hand. "What does that mean?" Ace questioned me quickly.
"N....Nothing, just that he wanted to be like a father to me" I stuttered nervously.
"If I find out you're lying, you're getting punished, understood?" Ace scowled at me as he stood up.
"Punished?!" I chirped up, getting a bit too brave. "Have you got a problem with that" Ace snarled angrily.
"No-".
"Get ready for school, I'm dropping you off and picking you up"
He finally left my room. A heaviness fills my chest any time he's near me, it makes it hard to breathe.
I got dressed slowly, taking my time so that I was late. I didn't want anyone to see Ace; Even though he was
going to be my husband.
I eventually got into the car with Ace. "Do you always work?" I asked curiously, building up the courage to
talk to him. "Most of the time" his deep, husky voice grumbled. "Does it not get boring ?" I questioned. "If it
was boring, I wouldn't do it, I do what I want" Ace turned to me . It was like he was warning me . "So .....
you could ditch work right now?" I questioned him as I played with my hands.
"No , not today".
"Why what's important today?"
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"Nothing...." he sighed, becoming irritated due to my questions.
"You're going to kill someone?" I mumbled as a joke.
"I kill people, it's what I do" Ace muttered admittedly. "I don't blame you" I replied, my voice becoming
louder as I became more comfortable around him. I think he was shocked because I saw one of his eyebrows
raise. "You're forgetting I was also raised into the mafia, killing people is something you just have to do" I
sighed hesitantly.
He looked confused. I smiled at him slightly, I watched the serious features on his face soften.
We finally pulled up to the school. "You're late" he muttered unimpressed. "I know, I did it on purpose" I
grinned as I got out of the car. "I'll be here at 4, don't be late" he raised his eyebrow warningly.

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"Sofia ! You're here" Olivia jumped into my arms. "Hey" I giggled embracing her. It was lunch.
"Blake's been looking for you since the first class" Olivia glanced at me, worriedly. "Is he ok?" I asked her,
remembering what had happened. "For the most part, yeah" she admitted after rubbing the back of her neck
stressfully.
"Oh shit, here they come" Olivia muttered nervously. I saw Ryder and Blake along with the rest of the
football team. They owned the school which I hated; Everyone followed and loved the football team.
I saw the guys turn their attention to me and Olivia. Ryder strutted over to me and Olivia. I saw Blake's face.
He had a huge bruise on his face from where Ace had punched him.
"Olivia, go wait over there" Ryder growled at her. "No she's my fri- NOW" Ryder shouted aggressively,
scaring me and Olivia. I've witnessed Ryder be very controlling over Olivia before so this wasn't new.
People were staring at us in the halls because of the commotion.
"Ryder what the fuck?" I questioned him angrily. "Your boy toy messed up Blake's face, now he can't play in
the finals next week" Ryder spat at me, practically squaring up to me.
"I'm sorry but that wasn't my fault" I slowly backed away from him cautiously. "Blake tried to stand up for
you and your boy toy hit him, how is it not your fault? " Ryder growled, backing me against the lockers .
"Ryder, if you don't back up, I will hurt you" I warned him, not breaking my confidence.
My fight or flight instinct had kicked in and I was choosing to fight. I'm usually always flight around my father
or people who remind me of him but I knew that Ryder wasn't trained in fighting and probably wouldn't even
know how to throw a proper punch.
"Ryder stop it!" Olivia shrieked at him as the football team watched on. "Man, you're taking this too far"
Blake pulled Ryder back. "Let her go!" Olivia snarled at Ryder, trying to pull him back from me. Ryder
shoved Olivia, causing her to stumble and fall to the ground before turning his attention to me. "Fuck you!" I
slapped Ryder across his face. No one touches my bestfriend.
Ryder slowly brought his head back towards me before giving me an evil look. "Fucking bitch" Ryder
snapped swinging at me. I ducked and slipped under his arm, sprinting down the hall as fast as I could. I
change my mind, I should've taken flight.
Ryder chased after me. He caught up to me and grabbed my wrist . I tried to keep running but he forced me
back to him. He grabbed my hair and punched me across the face. My head had turned to the side due to the
force of the punch; I could tell he tried to hold back. I mean.... I did hit him first.
I felt the blood trickle out of my mouth and onto the floor. I slowly looked Ryder in the eyes. He hadn't
released his grip on my hair but I could still reach him. I grabbed his throat with my hands suddenly and
squeezed as hard as I could.
"Sofia ! Sofia calm down!" Someone shouted, lifting me off my feet and pulling me away from the fight. My
hair was all over my face and some was even in my mouth.
I turned to see Ace. He grabbed my face gently with both of his hands. "What are you- then he saw the blood
P 6-1
dripping from my face. I saw the football guys holding Ryder back, some scolding him for fighting a girl. I
glanced back at Ace, to see only rage in his eyes.
He couldn't hide the anger on his face. "Did he hit you!" He shouted furiously at me, not able to hide his
emotions. "The one you pulled me off of" I muttered, wiping the blood from my lip onto my sleeve.
I saw Ace sprint over to the guys and tackle half of them to the ground without hesitation. He instantly got
back up and grabbed Ryder by the neck. Ryder's legs struggled to reach the ground, his tiptoes only touching
the ground. I was shocked at how strong Ace was; I shouldn't be since he trains probably everyday but I
couldn't help it.
"If you ever, lay a finger on her again, I'll kill you without a second thought" Ace spat between his clenched
jaw.
"Boys boys boys...." We heard teachers yell at the crowds of people gathered around. They had only come
now?; I could've used them like 5 minutes ago. But the teachers didn't scare Ace and he hadn't let go of
Ryder.

"See your friend over there, that's what one of my punches did to his face. I wonder what you'll look like
after 60?" Ace spat cheekily into Ryder's ear. Olivia was still on the floor in shock.
Ryder tried desperately to brake Ace's grip as he struggled for air. "Ace" I walked up to him timidly, sort of
afraid that he would hurt me. He didn't hear me. "Ace" I muttered, catching his attention. "Can we go?" I
begged him with my pleading eyes and blood dripping from my mouth.
"This isn't over" Ace snarled at Ryder, dropping him. Ryder gasped for air on the ground as we walked
away.
The teachers had broken up the circle and sent everybody to class but there was a few of us left. Ace
approached one of the teachers and spoke to her before coming back over to me. "We're good to leave" he
announced before leading me outside.
Ace took off his tux coat and unbuttoned his shirt when we were out of the school. He handed me the shirt
and held it under my chin to catch the blood as we walked to the car.
He had a crease in between his eyebrows from anger as he stared at the blood on his white shirt. "Are you
okay?" Ace questioned me after calming down slightly. I nodded in response because it hurt to talk. He began
taking off his shirt due to the blood and handed me it. "Let that catch the blood" he said calmly as he watched
the expression on my face change.
We got into the car. Ace's white shirt now had blood all over it. "I'm sorry about the shirt" I struggled to say.
"It's only a shirt" he responded quickly, starting the car before looking at me. "If you want to continue going
to school, I'm going to have to come, it's too dangerous for you to go alone" he spoke confidently. I nodded
approvingly as I looked back down at the shirt.
Ace drove us back to his house. "I'll stitch you up and then I'll take you to see your brothers" Ace uttered as
he drove, his full concentration on the road. "Don't you have someone to drive for you?" I questioned, trying
to change the conversation but most of it sounded like a blubber. "Yeah but I don't like using them" Ace
P 6-2
admitted. "Why not?" I asked again. "It seems ignorant, I have arms and legs, I can do it myself, getting
someone else to do it is just being lazy" he rambled but I was more focused on his body at this point.
I had completely ignored the fact that he was shirtless up until now. I watched how his bare chest slowly
raised as he took in a breath, I stared at his abs that were carved by gods and his broad muscly shoulders that
flexed as he turned the wheel. I stared at his veiny arms that led up to his bicep. God, he was attractive.

P 6-3
We finally arrived at Aces mansion.
"Is your mom and dad home ?" I questioned worriedly, as blood dripped from my mouth. "No.....thankfully"
Ace muttered the last part under his breath but I heard it aswell as the relief in his voice. I wonder why he
hates his parents so much. His mom seems very caring, and yeah, his father threatened me but that doesn't
mean he's hurt Ace.
"Sit here" He pointed to the counter and I hopped up. Ace came back 5 minutes later with a cloth, antiseptic
liquid and a first aid kit.
"Can you stitch" I asked in pain. "Yeah, I learned when I was 10. My mom thought I might need it when I'm
older" Ace frowned his eyebrows stressfully as he threaded the needle. "Is there no numbing stuff?!" I
squeaked worriedly. I saw the slightest smile appear on his face but was quickly faded. "No, you'll probably
pass out" he joked with a serious face. "That's not funny" I scowled at him to see his usual frown was softer
than normal.
"Ok" he sighed holding up the needle and drenching it in the liquid. "I'm going to die a virgin" I squealed
fearfully before quickly regretting what I had just said . "I mean- I say it a lot as a joke when I'm with Olivia,
I-" I laughed awkwardly as Ace blinked at me a few times.
"You won't die" he uttered breaking the awkward silence. I could my cheeks heating up from embarrassment;
I'm so stupid.
"Here, grab my shoulder if you need something to hold onto" Ace offered as he checked the gash in my
mouth. I placed my hand on his shoulder and braced myself for the pain. I clenched my eyes shut. "Don't bite
my fingers off , or else I won't help you" Ace sighed warningly . I nodded . "Ok, I'm going to start".
I winced in pain as I gripped onto his shoulder. Ace very hesitantly continued. He finally finished stitching
my cheek up. A tear ran down my cheek. He was staring at my hand that was still clenched onto his shoulder.
He took the cloth and dabbed my tear away as he stared into my eyes. His big blue eyes were filled with
curiosity.
"Why were you at the school?" I spoke softly as my glanced went back to the floor. "I changed my mind about
you going to school today, I didn't think it was the safest so I would've suggested you take a few days off but
as I finished signing you out, I went to check out what the commotion was and then I saw you" he explained
with a bland tone as if he had completely calmed down. "Oh okay" I nodded.
I slowly leaned into him, exhausted from the pain as I rested my head against his shoulder. Ace didn't hold
me but he didn't push my head off. Instead he slowly raised his arm to my back. I slowly lifted my head back
up before I frowned my eyebrows curiously. "Have you ever been hugged before?" I widened my eyes at him
jokingly. "No" he quickly responded, with a certain vulnerability in his voice. "Are you being serious" I
gasped in complete shock.
"I'm always serious" he responded. Well that's not a lie. "Oh my god" I muttered sadly as I held my hand over
my mouth for a dramatic effect since I couldn't really open it. "Why haven't you ever been hugged?" I
wondered as I stared at his shirt he had put on, moments ago.
"My family isn't the most affectionate" he explained as if it was obvious and to be fair, it was. He threw the t
P 7-1
shirt that was soaked in blood, into the washing machine. "Well you're getting your first hug today wether you
like or not" I mumbled , smiling softly, trying not to open my mouth too wide.
"No" he backed away. "Ace, stop being a scaredy cat" I glared teasingly at him, realizing the pain in my
mouth was slowly getting worse. "No" he demanded almost fearfully. I rolled my eyes at him, trying not to
speak.
He shot me an angry look. "Did you just roll your eyes at me?" He glared, annoyed. "Noooooo" I mumbled
sarcastically, staring at my hands as I played with them nervously. "Stop playing with your hands, it's
annoying" he growled frustratedly, grabbing my hands with his.
I felt a shiver up my spine as his hands grabbed mine. I know he felt it too. I took my eyes from my hands and
stared up at him . His face relaxed at warmth of my touch; His hands were freezing.
"You're so cold...." I practically whispered.
The doorbell rang repeatedly.
"I'm the devil, I'm never cold" he winked as he raised his eyebrows teasingly, pulling away from my touch.
When his hands left mine, I felt..... empty almost. Nothing gave me the same rush as his fingers against my
skin.
I realized my view of him is slowly changing as I live here. He's not emotional, he rarely shows any emotion
except anger but I can tell he wants to. He wants to smile and laugh, he wants to be happy but when you're in
the mafia that can be stripped away quite fast; From your friends to your family, anyone can die.
I don't believe he's the devil, not yet. He shows no emotion but that doesn't make him the devil.
I could hear muffled voices in the hallway.
"No, don't!" I heard Ace's voice demand.
I saw a head peak in at me from around the corner. I was wearing an oversized hoodie, shorts and my hair
was in a messy bun.
"Bro, she's hot as fuck" i heard the person say. "Get out" Ace snarled viscously. "That's no way to talk to
your best friend" I heard the guy laugh. "Fuck off" he growled.
A very handsome, tall, dark haired boy with brown eyes and a good jawline walked in. His skin was quite
pale though. "Who are you?" The guy asked curiously. "Who are you?" I questioned him back curiously. "I'm
Kaylo" he smirked as he reached his hand out to shake mine. "I'm Sof-" I was interrupted by Ace grabbing
and throwing his friend into the room next to us. Ace slammed the doors immediately.
"Go up to your room" Ace snapped at me and I nodded obediently, not daring to ask any questions. "Don't
come back down, I'll take you to your brothers in awhile, I'll come get you" Ace warned me. He really didn't
want me to come down.
"Okay" I nodded as I quickly jogged upstairs.

P 7-2
I waited upstairs patiently as I tried to wash the blood out of clothes in the bathroom sink.
The blood had already stained. I felt like crying, I always fuck everything up. I leaned against the wall as I
gave up hope of getting the stain out. I slowly slid down to the floor, my bloody hands covering my face.
I was so exhausted of living this lifestyle; I was tired of the constant violence that came with it.
A tear rolled down my cheek as I shook my head.
Suddenly the door opened.
"Oh I'm- are you ok?" Kaylo noticed my tears. "Oh yeah, I'm fine" I smiled as genuine as I possibly could,
wiping the tears away. "You're crying" he looked confused. "Did Ace do that?" Kaylo almost sounded angry.
"No- he helped me" I muttered as I turned and faced the mirror. "Ace ? Ace Hernandez helped you?" Kaylo
chuckled. I frowned my eyebrows at him curiously. "You must have him confused with someone" Kaylo
smiled, shaking his head at my unbelievable sentence.
"Ace hasn't ever helped anyone" Kaylo smirked at me. "I met Ace when I was 15. Our fathers are best
friends so it only made sense for us to be best friends. He's been like this since he was 15, maybe even
younger. Cold, ruthless, manipulative. If Ace helps you, he's getting something out of it. I'm warning you right
now, Ace is the wrong person for anyone and everyone" Kaylo snarled almost threateningly at me.
I stood frozen; Shocked. It's like there was some hidden anger behind that sentence, possibly jealously
aswell. "Ok...." I responded quietly. "Sofia" I heard a voice call out for me.
"He's not a good man, you'll see it eventually" Kaylo warned me as he walked out. "Yeah bro, she's up here"
Kaylo called down to him.
Ace appeared, strolling into the bathroom. "She's upset Ace, it's normal" Kaylo rolled his eyes at him,
suddenly switching his mood altogether. "I'm not fucking blind I know she's upset" Ace growled annoyed.
"Jeez, someone's grumpy" Kaylo slowly walked away, giving me a wink before heading downstairs.
"What's wrong?" Ace asked me. "Nothing, I'm just tired" I uttered. "Come on, I'll take you to see your
brothers now" he offered. A smile appeared on my face. He seemed happy to have made me smile.
——————————
Ace decided to let someone else drive as he sat in the back of the limo with me.
Ace glanced at me every so often but I was too excited to see my brothers to care. "Do you have any
siblings?" I turned to Ace suddenly and I could see Ace begin to think. "I think so" he responded with a
confused tone. My face must've looked confused because Ace and explained it further.
"My father cheats on my mother a lot so I'm assuming somewhere I do have one- actually I know I have one"
he corrected himself. "How do you know?" I asked curiously. "I'm the Mafia leader. I have all the papers
passed down from my father and I found the birth certificate in a big stack of papers that he thought I would
never check".

P 8-1
Ace's hands intertwined each other, he sat like a business man all the time.
"So, are you ever going to meet him or her" I asked. "No" he replied, no trace of uncertainty no his voice.
"Oh" I said surprised. "I don't need siblings" he shrugged. I nodded, ending the conversation.
We finally arrived at the mansion.
I stepped out of the car. "Sof" I heard someone say with a confused tone. "Sofiaaa" they both shouted happily
as they realised it was actually me. It was Diego and Javi. "Ahhh" I shouted excitedly, jumping into their
arms. "We thought we'd never see you again" Diego laughed delighted. "The house hasn't been the same" Javi
hugged me. I heard Ace clear his throat, my brothers instantly freezing up.
"Guys....." I rubbed the back of my neck awkwardly as I took a step away from them. "This is Ace.... Ace
Hernandez" I introduced him. "I'm also her fiancé" Ace's deep, husky voice grumbled. My brothers were
fearful of him, I could tell and I didn't blame them. Ace reaches out to shake their hands and they both
flinched. "Shake his hand, don't be so rude" I snapped at my brothers. I know they were only scared but I
didn't need them getting Ace angry.
Diego was the first to shake Ace's hand. Next was Javi.
"I'm Javi" he introduced himself. "I'm Diego" Diego uttered who was clearly uncomfortable.
"The Diaz family, I have heard things about your Mafia before" Ace was very intimidating, he kept eye
contact and was still mysterious.
"Hopefully good things" I heard the voice that I knew too well; It was my father. I instantly retreated back to
Ace, leaving barely any space between us. It was hard for me to hide how scared I was of my father, it
probably showed clearly on my face.
Ace immediately shot my father a dirty look. Then again, Ace doesn't make any other facial expressions
besides an angry one. They're all moody and grumpy.
My father approached us, cautiously but trying to act like Ace wasn't intimidating. "I'm Fernando" my father
shook Ace's hand quite violently. "I know, we've met before" Ace rolled his eyes, already annoyed.
"I assume these are your brothers?" Ace raised his eyebrow at me questioningly. "Two of them" I responded.
"There's more" Ace responded surprised. "Yeah" I smiled softly, trying to make Ace less angry and I think it
worked for the most part.
"Who's the heir?" He asked curiously. "Raul!" I squealed as I saw him come out of the house. I ran up to him.
"Ahhh Sofia" he embraced me, spinning me around in his arms. "I missed you" I said happily as I giggled.
"Where's Marco and Stefano?" I questioned as stepped back from him. "They've gone out" Raul responded
nervously. I nodded.
Me and Raul approached Ace.
"This is Ace , my fiancé" I introduced Ace. "Raul Diaz, heir" he replied shaking Ace's hand. "I see why he's
the heir now and not you two" Ace glanced at Javi and Diego. My father chuckled at Ace's joke. "That wasn't
a joke" Ace snarled at my father, my father stopping soon after.
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"Would you like to come in" I asked Ace. He nodded as he followed behind me.

Grinding out the daily uploads

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We all sat around the table. My mother introduced herself and we all continued talking.
"I wasn't expecting you to come back so soon" my father voiced to me from across the table. He grabbed
Ace's attention as well as mine. "Oh yeah, I decided to come visit" I shrugged as I watched my mom. "It feels
like nothing's changed" My father smirked evilly knowing that what he said would hurt me.
I glanced down at the table.
"She's made a big difference in my mafia so I'm surprised there's no difference here" Ace announced as he lit
his cigarette. My father's face instantly dropped from an evil smirk to a blank expression. "Everyone wants
my wife" Ace pressed his lips against the smoke, savoring it. "But no one can have her except me, she is
mine". It's like Ace was subtlety threatening my father even though nothing he said was true.
"Excuse me, I have to use the bathroom" I smiled politely as I stood up.
I strolled down the hall into the bathroom. I shook my head as I stared in the mirror. I checked my stitches, to
make sure they were still intact.
The handle of the bathroom door started wiggling like crazy. I unlocked it, thinking it was Ace, only to
realize it was my father.
"What the fuck did you tell him?" My father to pinned me to the wall with his hand around my throat. He shut
the door with his foot.
I gasped for air as his hand tightened around my neck. "Nothing" I squeaked as I struggled to speak due to his
tightening grip. "He abuses me too" I gasped for air as I clawed at his wrist. The only way to get out of this
situation was to lie. If my father thought Ace abused me, he wouldn't be as paranoid.
"Ace hates everyone" I begged him to believe me, feeling like I was on the brink of passing out. My father
released his grip. "I believe you, only because I know how unlikeable you are" my father grumbled and shut
the door as he walked out.
My breathing was heavy as my hands shook uncontrollably. I glanced in the mirror to see the shape of my
fathers hand imprinted into my neck. I shut my eyes and wished to be anywhere but here; Anywhere but home.
"Hey, Sofia" I heard Raul day from behind the door. I opened the door as I greeted him with a fake smile.
"Hey" I smiled slightly, hoping he wouldn't notice my discomfort. "I was just checking up on you plus Ace is
just glaring at everyone" Raul smiled at me. "Yeah, he does that a lot" I admitted as I stepped out into the
door.
—————————
Me and my family talked for awhile before I decided I wanted to go.
My father reeked of alcohol but what do you expect from an alcoholic?.
We were all sitting in the living room watching tv and the only people who were really talking was my
brothers. Stefano and Marco hadn't come back yet.
Ace was sitting on the couch with me. "Can we go" I whispered to Ace. He looked a bit surprised. "You
P 9-1
were so excited to come and you want to go already" he asked slightly worried. "I just don't feel the best" I
muttered, lying. "Ok we'll go now" Ace stood up. "I have to go so me and Sofia are leaving now" Ace
announced to my family.
I said goodbye to my family as I felt sort of guilty for leaving again. I mean it's not my choice but I think I feel
guilty because I'm happy being at Ace's house . Yeah, he doesn't show much emotion but atleast he doesn't
punish me for things I do; Maybe his dad will though.
Ace said he'd wait in the car for me as I said goodbye to my family.
"Bye bye my princess" my dad grinned happily with a cheeky tone. "You reek of alcohol" I whispered under
my breath as I hugged him. He froze when he realised I had said something back to him. No, no, no, me and
my stupid mouth. "What did you say" my father put on a chilling tone.
"N- nothing...... I didn't say anything" I almost pleaded with him to forget it and let me leave alive. Fear ran
through my veins. "Did you just make a remark about me?" my father gritted through his teeth. "N-no" I
responded pulling out of the hug, my eyes watering due to the fear of what he would do to me.
"You have fallen out of line" my father shouted at me, catching all my family's attention.
"You need to be punished" he grabbed my wrist tightly as he pulled me towards the house. "No father
please" I shrieked, yelling at him. I cried out as we approached the door. I shut my eyes as best I could. All
my family looked away, ashamed that they couldn't do anything.
"Fernando" Ace snarled from the bottom of the garden. My father froze, forgetting who my fiancée was but I
had also told my father that Ace abuses me..... which was a lie. Ace didn't abuse me, in fact from what Ace
had shown me so far is that he is against the idea of abusing me. Or atleast I think.
My father let go of his grip from my wrist. I ran into Aces arms. Ace wrapped his arm around me
protectively as I buried my face into him. "You told me he abused you" my father scowled, shocked at the
fact I had lied to him. I don't know what disgust him more; the lie or the fact I had the courage to lie to him
for the first time in my life. "I'll be taking my fiancé home and if you ever lay another finger on her, you won't
ever see the sunlight again, only the light of the flame that will be burning your skin" Ace added an evil smirk
to the last part.
My brothers looked shocked and confused but they also looked relieved. "You can't do this. She needs to put
in place" my father roared, losing his mind as he pulled at what was left of his hair.
Ace kept his arms around me as we walked to the limousine. He opened the door and helped me in before we
drove away.

Ace's POV :
I sat in the living room, staring at her. She didn't seem as happy as earlier; It's ever since she left the table.
Her father's an asshole like mine. I have my suspicions that she's abused but you can't exactly just tell her
she's abused, even I know that.
She was beautiful. I have never dated girls, I use them for pleasure and then I kick them out. Marrying one is
whole different lifestyle for me. I haven't made up my mind if I want to try with her or not. I could just be
P 9-2
unfaithful, it seems like the choice I'm leaning towards right now.
I don't like how my fathers treating her; He stares at her likes she's a punching bag waiting to be hit. If he
hurts her I swear..... I noticed my hand was clenched at the idea of her being hurt. I'm not going to lie, I
thought it was a bit weird.
I find her, interesting. She likes going to school.... I've heard it's miserable but then again, I wouldn't know.
She flinches everytime I raise my hand. What has been said about me to her?. There's not much to say; I don't
tell anyone anything about me for a reason.
She has to know I get called the devil at least, it's been my nickname since I was 15. I'm not actually the
devil......... atleast I don't know for sure yet.
She would glance over at me every so often to make sure I was ok. How is she a virgin?.
That thought baffled me. I shouldn't be thinking of her like that. I tried desperately to shake the thoughts out of
her out of my head.
Today I watched her laughed and enjoy atleast some of her time with her family but she was constantly
walking on egg shells around them due to her father. He is definitely the one who abused her.
I glanced around the room. Raul seems like a coward who protects no one but himself. They all are cowards
for letting their little sister be abused when there's 5 of them but she doesn't see it that way; she blames no
one but herself for what happens to her and it drives me insane.

A few hours had gone by and she surprisingly asked to go home. I thought I'd have to drag her away. I waited
in the car as she said goodbye to her family. I flicked to through my texts, making sure the Mafia was still in
check. Stocks are good, we have too much money.
I was interrupted by a cry for help. I cringed at the horrible, pleading sound; It was Sofia. A rush of
adrenaline flowed through me, hearing her cry in fear. I immediately hopped out the car. Her father had a
tight grip on her wrist, making it impossible for her to escape. I felt like killing her father right there and then.
She knew she was going to be hurt if she stepped through that door but she did it anyway. Her brothers and
mother just stood there, doing nothing.
"Fernando" I roared, grabbing everyone's attention. He let her go; If he hadn't, he would've wished that he
had.
She instantly ran to me with tears rolling down her cheeks. I felt........ empathy for once. I wrapped my arms
around her instinctively. I felt a rush of relief once she was next to me. She buried her face into my chest and
she was shaking with fear.
I wouldn't call this a hug, more like I had a protective grip on her. I had this natural instinct to protect her, I
don't know where it came from or how long I've had it, it just appeared out of thin air.
"I'll be taking my fiancé home, and if you ever lay another finger on her, you won't ever see the sunlight
again, only the light of the flame that will be burning your skin" I smirked at the last bit because I knew I'd
love to hurt him. Hearing his screams after making her scream would be music to my ears.
P 9-3
I'd love to hear Sofia scream but not for that reason. I shook the thoughts out of my head once again as
brought her to the car. Why didn't she tell me this stuff happened to her?.

P 9-4
Ace's POV :
A few minutes had passed .
We sat in the car and silence filled the air. I could tell she was upset. I'm not good with emotions but I can
tell when people are hurt, mainly because I'm the one usually hurting them. She was trying so hard to be
strong. I hate to see people cry, it disgusts me almost purely because of how weak they are.
But when I seen a tear fall from her cheek, I didn't think she was weak. I don't know why but I just wanted to
make her pain go away.
"Are you okay?" the words escaped my lips before I could even thought about it. I saw her lip quiver as she
shook her head, looking out the window. I felt a heaviness in my chest as I watched her struggle not to cry. I
didn't like feeling this way.
A sigh escaped my lips as I looked at her . "Maybe this was a bad idea" I muttered quietly as I rubbed my
forehead stressfully . Sofia nodded agreeing.
"Did your brothers just ignore him abusing you?!" I finally asked . She stayed silent until see finally worked
up the courage to answer . "He abused all of us , I didn't know it was abuse until high school , I thought it
was normal to get beaten for the little things, it's how he raised all of us" she responded , hesitant to open up .
"They're pussies" I snapped angrily , earning a dirty look from Sofia . "Don't look at me like that" I growled
at her , putting her in place . I needed to calm down . I was still very worked up from a few minutes ago . "I
may be the devil but I would never let anyone hit you , do you understand" I demanded her to answer .
"They're pussies , all of them" .
My attention turned to the broken handle on the car . Then I heard sobbing . I looked back to see Sofia . She
wasn't able to keep it together anymore. Partly my fault.
It was also very uncomfortable watching her cry . I didn't know what to do . "I just want to sleep" she
whimpered as she wiped her tears away . It's weird , I don't sleep and she loves to sleep . She sleeps to
avoid her problems , I stay awake to fix mine . We're complete opposites .
"You can sleep" I suggested , shrugging . I watched her lean against the window as she shut her eyes .
Eventually she had fallen asleep . I was scrolling through my phone , responding to emails when Sofia
changed positions and decided to lie on my lap . I tensed up immediately. The only time someone is this
close to me is ........ never mind , I guess I can make an exception just this once .
I got distracted from my emails watching Sofia sleep . Her tear stained cheeks finally dry . I slowly ran the
back of my fingers along the tear stains on her cheeks , wanting to make all of her pain disappear with a touch
. But I knew it wasn't that simple . I stroked the loose strands of hair behind her ear . She was beautiful, I hate
to admit it . I'd rather have an ugly wife , atleast I wouldn't want to marry her . I snapped out of the trance and
went back to my business.
I looked back down at Sofia just to see the discomfort on her face as she slept . She must've been having a
nightmare. She frowned her eyebrows as she looked for something to grab. For some reason I held out my
hand for her to grab , and she did , the discomfort instantly fading from her face . She had a peaceful look on
her face . I stared at our hands . They fit together perfectly.
P 10-1
I need to stop thinking about this girl . I can't let myself love anything. I called Fiona , one of my sluts . My
mom hates me calling them 'sluts'. I have to pay her everytime she comes over . And she still comes over
even though she knows I'm engaged? .
"I'll be home in 10 , be over at my place in 20 or else I'll kill you" I growled into the phone . "Of course Mr.
Hernandez" she responded , trying to be kinky . "If you ever whisper like that again , I will break your jaw" I
snarled angrily as I stared out the window . "I'm sorry" she squealed into the phone . I hung up .
I rolled my eyes . It's hard dealing with her . My attention was once again broken by Sofia . She held my hand
as she stirred around on my lap . "Fuck" I sharply inhaled, shutting my eyes . All I could think was to try and
not get an erection . I breathed out heavily as she stopped moving . Only for her to move her hand , directly
above my growing erection . I hissed as I tried to calm down .
There's no way I'm getting hard at the thought ..... I looked down . Shit .
It was an agonising 10 minute drive home and I could finally get out of the car .
I stepped out as I adjusted myself . "Yooo Ace, would you like me to carry her up to her room ?" Kaylo
asked , appearing out of thin air . "No , I'll do myself" I scowled at him . "Awh come on man, I just want to
help" Kaylo had a evil grin on his face . "Get the fuck inside before I shoot you" I threatened . "Come- I
whipped out my gun and held it against his forehead . "I swear to fucking god , I will shoot you if you don't
leave now" I yelled furiously. Kaylo had been getting on my last nerve for way too long . That look in his
eyes said it all .
Kaylo went pale , the colour draining from his face . "Y-yes boss" he almost tripped , stumbling over himself
running away . Fucking coward I thought as I lifted Sofia into my arm . This girl has been through enough
without him trying to sleep with her.
I walked upstairs and gently lay her on my bed. I couldn't leave her in the guest room incase Kaylo came
back and tried anything suspicious. Plus I can lock this door.
I quietly shut the door. Fiona walked up the stairs . "Hey boss" she smirked. "Let's get this over with" I rolled
my eyes. God I hated this girl.

Two uploads in one night Thank Asma

*Disclaimer : I do not condone people calling women sluts. It is very wrong and disrespectful. Please
refrain from ever using that word. Please also refrain from hating on Fiona.

P 10-2
Sofia's POV :
The last thing I remember was falling asleep in the car . How did I get up here ?
I sat up and looked around . This wasn't my room . There was clothes all over the room . It was Aces room. I
still had my clothes on . I stumbled out of bed and into his bathroom. What time was it? . I looked at the
phone on the counter in the bathroom . 3 am . Great, the devils hour.
I went to open the door to leave , only to be greeted by the same blondie from the other night . She was
inches away from me . "Who are you" she scowled at me , giving me a disgusted look . I just stared at her .
"I can tell you I'm not Ace's bitch" I shrugged . "Why were you in Ace's room then?" She hissed at me . I gave
her a disgusted look as I walked down the hall but she followed me . "Honestly I don't know" I responded to
her as i walked down the hall , peaking into the rooms .
"Did you guys have sex?" She snarled viscously. I froze and turned around to her . I erupted into laughter
infront of her face . "Me and him" I gasped for air as I tried to collect myself . "That's never going to happen"
I shook my head as I wiped a tear of laughter away . "Why not?" Her mood suddenly changed. "Because he's
Ace . Violent , Cruel , ...... Emotionless" I added slowly .
"Ace is amazing" she scowled at me . I rolled my eyes . "You're so annoying , no wonder why he only fucks
you" I admitted to her . Suddenly I felt a sting on my cheek . She had just slapped me . "See , there's a
difference between me and you , you're not apart of the mafia" I whispered the last part to her . Her eyes
widened as she realized what I said. My fist collided with her jaw , not even seconds after . She stumbled
back as I threw an uppercut, breaking her nose .
Blood spewed from her nose as she screamed . I cracked one of my knuckles . Ace came running out of one
of the millions of guest rooms . He stared at Fiona on the ground , crying . I stared at him . "She slapped me"
I shrugged . Ace gave me an unhappy look . Ace pulled out his phone . "Terry , come get Fiona , she's on the
ground with a broken nose even after I told her to leave" Ace rolled his eyes . He hung up .
Ace shook his head at me as he walked down the hall , unbuttoning his shirt with every step . "You , follow"
Ace demanded . "Why couldn't you of done that to your father" Ace questioned me . I instantly cowered at the
thought . "No" I muttered quietly as I followed him .
Ace got to the last room in the hall . "This is my office , if I'm not in my room , I'll be here" Ace told me as he
threw his shirt on the couch in the corner . My breathing hitched as he turned around , once again revealing
his muscles . "Why did you need me?" His husky voice asked .

The song at the top of the chapter is the song they are dancing to if you want to play it
"I wanted to know how I ended up in your room ?" I asked him as I sat in his chair . He frowned his
eyebrows , watching me sit in his chair . "I got one of my guys to bring you up" Ace rolled his eyes as he
stood infront me . "Okay" I replied happily , continuing to sit in his chair . "Come on" Ace said suddenly ,
with kind of a soft tone in his voice for once .
"What?" I smirked at him playfully. "I need to practice my dancing for next week" he mumbled as he turned
on some music . He stood in the centre of the dimly lit room . The only thing making him visible was the fire
in the fire place .

P 11-1
"Would you like to dance with the devil?" He asked as he held his hand out . I stared at him , contemplating
in my mind . "Yeah sure". I don't know where this sudden comfortability came from .
I walked around the desk and towards Ace . His hair silky smooth , his jawline sharp , his lips perfect , not
to mention his perfectly defined abs . He only had his suit trousers on with a belt holding them up , but it
wasn't doing a very good job since I could see his Calvins waistband showing .
He took my hand . His touch was addicting. I've craved it forever and never even knew it . He held our hands
out as he placed a hand on my waist . I wrapped my free arm around his neck . He held onto me tightly, as if
he never wanted to let go . I listened to the crackling of the fire as we slowly danced .
I stared at him to see him staring at me . He looked.......happy . He didn't have a smile to show it but I could
see it in his eyes . The way he stared at me , I hadn't seen it in his eyes before .
I no longer saw the burning flames in his eyes but a sparkle of happiness, maybe even a glimmer of hope.
I smiled as I looked at him . "You're a good dancer" I whispered as I looked away shyly . "You don't even
know" he twirled me around , bringing me back into his arms . A smile instantly appeared on my face . He
pulled me closer to him , our bodies against each other's. He placed his forehead against mine as we rocked
to the music . I couldn't let myself give into him . But something was telling me to cave . I wanted to feel his
touch against my skin. I wanted him to ignite the fire inside me .
Our lips were inches apart . I could see him fighting it aswell. But we're prisoners to desire .
We leaned in slowly .
"Ace , your father - oh shit" a guy interrupted us. Me and Ace immediately snapped out of our trance . Fuck I
thought as I stood there awkwardly.
Ace cleared his throat . "What did my father want , Dante?" Ace asked with a sliver of frustration in his
voice . "He asked to see you" Dante replied quickly . "Fuck sake" Ace growled as he walked out , trying not
show he was upset . I just stared at Dante . "I'm Sofia" I introduced myself . "I'm Dante" he smiled .
"Sorry for um ..... interrupting" Dante apologized . "It's fine" I muttered , walking out of Aces room . "We
were just practicing how to dance" I smiled , walking away .
I reached my room and shut the door , making sure to lock it . I let out a sigh . I don't know what it was
because of ? Relief , Sadness. But I knew a part of me was upset aswell .

P 11-2
I woke up to the sound of my alarm . Shit .
I threw on a dress . I'm ready to be the most hated person at school .
I ran downstairs. Denice was cooking food . "Hey Denice , if anyone asks , I'm at school" I quickly told her
as I put on my shoes . "I thought Ace didn't want you to go" Denice questioned me as she flipped the pancakes
. "My mouths mainly healed , I'll be fine" I assured her . "Okay .... but he won't be too happy" she warned me
, pointing the spatula at me . "When is he ever happy" I giggled as I walked out . I heard her say something
but I ignored it .
I strolled carelessly to school .
I reached the entrance and walked in . Everyone gave me dirty looks as I walked down the hall . Really ?
Already .
I walked to class . The crowds slowly rolled in as the class the filled .
The teacher tried to teach as they all whispered stuff about me . All I could make out was them asking who
Ace was . "She's such a drama queen" "I heard she bet the shit out of Ryder" "I heard she slept with Blake
but was dating Ace". All these fucking bullshit lies .
I sat through 3 classes of constant chatter about me until it was lunch time . I walked into the cafeteria and
everyone stared at me . I walked over to an empty bench and sat down . I poked at my food with a fork , I
could see the football team eyeing me up . I felt very uncomfortable. Everyone was against me . I don't know
where Olivia is , Everyone thinks I'm an asshole and I'm in a difficult and very complicated situation.
The football team approached me . Not again . One of the guys sat down . "Hey Diaz , hows school going
down far" Vince smiled cheekily , knowing it wasn't amazing . "Vince , go away and leave me alone" I
sighed , shaking my head . "Blake and Ryder are out for the game , because of you , this game is the most
important thing to us" he picked up my water and drank most of it .
"Fuck off" I hissed at him . "Fuck you" he threw the rest of my water over my head . I clenched my jaw as
water dripped down my hair .
I slowly looked back up at Vince who was laughing along with the entire school . "You wanna know what I
heard?" Vince yelled at the entire cafeteria. "I heard her daddy abuses her" Vince spoke confidently ,
announcing it to the whole school . "Who told you that" I snapped at him . "Ooo someones angry" he laughed
as the whole cafeteria talked . I could feel the tears burning my eyes .
I stood up and stormed out of the Cafeteria. Fuck this . A tear ran down my face as I stormed down the hall . I
was lost in my thoughts when I bumped into someone . "I'm sorry" I mumbled trying to walk past them with
my head down. Their scent was strong and musky . Too familiar. They placed their hands on my waist to stop
me from getting past .
"Are you crying" Ace's voice growled as he used his finger to lift my head , forcing me to look at him . I
shook my head no but the tears streaming down my face contradicted me . I seen anger appear on Aces face .
It was harder for him to hide what he was feeling . "What happened?" He asked looking at my soaking wet
hair . "He poured water on me" I paused not telling him the rest . "What else ...." Ace growled , catching me
P 12-1
by surprise. I played with my hands as the tears kept flowing .
"He - he - told them my dad abuses me" I weeped as I tried to hold it together. Ace had an upset look on his
face . It's the first time I've ever seen him sad . I hated it .
Ace stared at me as he shook his head , dropping his head to the floor . "Do you need anything?" Ace asked .
"No" I sniffled as I wiped my tears . "What's the guys name?" Ace asked me , moving his hands up my waist .
I got distracted by Aces touch . "Vince" I uttered . "Okay , come on , we're going home" Ace escorted me out
. I sat in his car yet again , looking out the window .
"How's your stitches" Ace questioned curiously. "They're fine" I shrugged . Ace nodded in response.
————————
A few days had passed and I hadn't gone back to school yet , not like Ace would let me .
I sat in my room watching a movie . Divergent to be more specific.
I was interrupted by a knock on my door . "Hey, Ace asked if you wanted to come down for some food , we
got pizza" Dante cheered happily . I smiled at him . "How many people are downstairs" I asked curiously.
"I'm not going to lie , a lot" Dante shrugged , smiling reassuringly.
"Tell him no , I'm not really in the mood" I curled up into a ball under my blankets . "Oh okay" Dante
sounded a little disappointed.
A few minutes had passed . I heard someone come into my room . They turned the light on . "Ah Ace" I
shrieked , pulling the blankets up to my neck, immediately scowling at him while trying not to be blinded by
the light . Ace tore the blanket off me , not realizing I was just in my underwear and a t-shirt.
He froze as he stared at me. I just lay on my bed . "Can I have my blankets back please ?" I asked him as I
blushed . He blinked at me , staring at my body but eventually he gave the blankets back .
He left and came back . "Here and here , put these on" he uttered as threw me a pair of basketball shorts and
a hoodie . I put them on as he watched. "Can you stop ?" I glared at him . "Sorry just admiring the viewww"
he teased . I hit his arm playfully as I jumped back on the bed . "Nope" Ace said , grabbing me and throwing
me over his shoulder . "Ace put me down" I shrieked . "Someone's moody" he raised his eyebrows . I gave
up and just hung , staring at the floor . Ace walked into the kitchen.
All eyes stared at us as we .... well Ace walked into the kitchen with me over his shoulder .
"This is Sofia" Ace introduced me , finally putting me down . There was a good few of people . Dante ,
Kaylo , I didn't know anyone else . "I'm Dacre , I'll only be here for a few days since I lead another one of
Ace's Mafia bases in California" one guy introduced himself . I smiled at him , shaking his hand . "I'm Ice" a
guy said . That's a weird name . I stood next to Ace awkwardly as he talked to his friends . There was a few
more guys who hadn't introduced themselves.
"Do you want some pizza" Ace asked me . I shook my head in response. "Well you're having one anyway"
Ace grabbed a slice from the box , handing it to me . "Ace I just want to sleep" I whimpered holding the
pizza. "You need to eat, and it's only 8 pm" Ace raised his eyebrow at me .

P 12-2
I sighed defeatedly as I bit into the pizza. Ace talked with his friends as he walked into the sitting room .
"You look so uncomfortable" Ice muttered , standing beside me . "I've just had a bad few days" I shook my
head . "You want to talk about it in the bedroom" Ice grinned playfully. "No" I snapped at him . "Rejected ,
ouch" Ice put his hand over his heart .

P 12-3
About an hour had passed and I was sat in the kitchen. Ace's hoodie was so big on me, the sleeves were too
long for my arms but it smelt like Ace so I guess that's a plus.
I finally worked up the courage to get up and walk into the living room. They were all drinking, including
Ace. I waddled in awkwardly, hoping not to grab anyone's attention. The only free spot was next to Kaylo, I
wonder whyyyy?.
I sat next to him uncomfortably, I could see that Ace didn't like that I was sitting next to him. I watched Ace
take a sip of his beer bottle with a stern look plastered on his face. Kaylo stared at me while Ace was
distracted, talking to one of his friends. Kaylo moved his hand onto my thigh; I felt like throwing up. "Get
your hand off my thigh" I hissed quietly to Kaylo, trying not to draw attention to us. "Mm I think I'll leave it
there, maybe even go a big higher" I squirmed as Kaylo's hand moved from near my knee to my mid thigh.
Ace was still distracted.
Ace was about to look over but Kaylo made sure he moved his hand away from my leg. I looked towards
Dante who had saw it all....atleast I think. Dante looked pissed.
"So who are you guys bringing to the ball?" Ice chuckled, he was obviously drunk, most of them were
including Ace I think. "Probably one of my sluts" a guy replied. "Don't call women sluts, it's gross" I scolded
the guy and before he could reply, Ace threw him an angry glare.
"Actually, I'm bringing a girl that I'm in love with , you guys will finally get to her meet her" Dante smiled,
love struck . There was a few more answers. One that stuck out was "Mafia over love". Is that really how
they trained everyone?.
"Ace" Ice said, grabbing Ace's attention. "Who are you bringing?" Ice questioned him curiously. "Don't
know" Ace shrugged carelessly. I saw Ace glance at me before looking back down at his bottle. "He never
picks anyone to bring, it's always his dad who chooses" some guy complained. "Have you got a problem with
that" Ace snarled at the anonymous remark.
"Why don't you go with Sofia" Dante asked Ace teasingly. "Shut up Dante" Me and Ace hissed at him, at the
same time. Dante chuckled and everyone else was confused; Dante was the only one who had saw us dance.
"Why is Sofia even here?" Someone chirped. "Another one of Ace's sluts I'm assuming, she is wearing his
clothes" Ice chuckled staring at me. Everyone was now staring at me. "I'm going back upstairs" I shook my
head walking out. "Aye, listen up, she's not 'my slut', she's someone who's stuck with me forever so if any of
you upset her like that again or call another woman a slut, i will kill you. That includes you three" Ace
announced to everyone, specifically threatening Ice, Kaylo and Dante.
I turned around to see Ace staring at me. "Dante get up" Ace snarled at him. "I'm being kicked off the chair"
Dante clenched his chest dramatically as he fell to the floor. I giggled while everyone laughed at Dante.
Definitely the clown of the group. "You, here" Ace demanded with his finger pointing at the free spot beside
him. I shrugged and walked over carelessly as I knew that I'd rather sit next to Ace than Kaylo.
Dante struggled to get up so to make things worse, Ace kicked him over again. Everyone laughed . I watched
Ace smirk at his friend but like everyone of Ace's slight smiles, it faded away instantly. Ace took another sip
of his beer.

P 13-1
He was so attractive. He just looked flawless, it was almost annoying. I snapped out of my trance when Ace
turned to me. "You want a sip?" Ace offered with a relaxed tone. I shrugged with a worried look on face, I
was afraid he would make me drink. "Have you ever drank before" Ace questioned me. "You think I could
risk drinking?" I smiled, rolling my eyes .
"Mmm now I see why your a virgin" Ace whispered causing the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. He
snickered handing me the bottle. "Take a sip, I won't punish you....well atleast not in the way your thinking"
he muttered the last part but I still heard it. "Fine" I sighed drinking from the bottle. I didn't like it, it had a
sour taste. I made a disgusted face only to see Ace erupt into laughter.
I smiled at the sound of his laugh; I wish I heard it more. "She made him laugh" Kaylo gasped catching
everyone's attention. "Mm I think Ace likes this one" Ice smirked at me. Ace was too drunk to even realize
what they were talking about. "How long until he kills her?" Dante questioned Ice quietly. "I'd give it less
than a month" Ice looked me up and down disgusted.
I was too busy admiring Ace's smile to even see they were looking at me. "What was that face" Ace laughed
at me. "I don't know" I giggled. "Let me get you something nicer" Ace croaked before walking out of the
room. I sat awkwardly until Ace came back . "Here" he muttered as he handed me a bottle of wine. "I think
you'll like that more" he smiled proudly. "I need a cup" I muttered as I looked around. "My mouth can be your
cup" Ace offered with a singular eyebrow raised. "You're too flirty when you're drunk" I warned him.
"Just drink it from the bottle, we won't care" Ace mumbled as he took another sip. I shrugged and took a sip
of the wine. "This is better" I nodded. "I haven't had wine in so long" Ace swapped our drinks. Even though I
didn't like Aces beer, I still drank it to avoid upsetting him. "Hey slow down!" Ace grumbled while taking
the beer off me. "I still don't like it" I mumbled, wiping my lips.
"Why'd you drink it then?" Ace asked me as he handed me the wine. "I don't know, you were drinking the
wine" I smiled shyly. "I forgot to ask, why did you come to the school the other day?" I took a sip of the red
wine as I played with the sleeves of Aces jumper. "I didn't want you to go cause I knew someone would hurt
you" Ace rested his head against the chair. "My Prince Charming" I teased him while smiling. "I better be" he
growled playfully.
A few hours had passed and it was now 2 am.
Me and Ace had finished the wine bottle. "I should probably go to bed" I uttered to Ace. "Yeah me too" He
shook his head, trying to shake off being drunk. I went to stand up but nearly fell over. "Woahhh" Ace caught
me. "Steady" he warned me, giving me a harsh look. "Yeah .... steady" I repeated innocently. Ace held my
waist as we walked, incase I might fall.
We slowly walked up the stairs. "I don't feel good" I whined to Ace as I held my stomach. "Oh no" he
widened his eyes as he picked me up and ran to the bathroom.
I got sick into the toilet, violently. Ace grabbed my hair and held it back. "Just let it out" he whispered as he
slipped his hand under the hoodie and rubbed my back. I lay on the floor, exhausted. "Come on" he
whispered , helping me up. He brought me to his room and I lay on his bed. "Just to make sure you don't
choke on your vomit" he teased quietly.
I widened my eyes in fear at him. "I'm joking" he smirked as pulled off his shirt. He grabbed a pillow and
P 13-2
placed it on the floor. "What are you doing?" I frowned at him. "Sleeping" Ace mumbled. "Sleep on the bed,
why are you sleeping on the floor" I shook my head at him. He grabbed the pillow and put it back on the bed.
He slowly climbed in beside me. I turned over and faced him; He stared at me as I gazed at him.
"I hate getting drunk" I muttered closing my eyes. "It's not the best thing ever" Ace admitted. "Where's your
dad? He's been gone a few days" I asked Ace, half awake. "He hosts the ball" Ace responded hesitantly.
"Oh" I mumbled whilst my breathing slowed. "Do you want to go to the ball with me?" Ace suddenly asked.
He had a calm and quiet tone to his voice. "Yeah, I think it will be fun" I smiled, opening my eyes. "Yeah, I
think it will be" he whispered. My hand rested near my pillow.
"When I first met you, I thought I'd hate you" Ace admitted. "Ouch" I frowned at him. "You're not so bad" he
teased me. "Yeah well you're the worst" I groaned at him. I saw a smile appear on his face, my eyes
adjusting to the darkness of the room.
"You should smile more" I whispered softly, grinning at him.
"Go to sleep" he whispered gently. I shut my eyes but I had this strong crave to feel his touch. I slowly moved
my hand , with my eyes still shut, towards his hand. If he didn't react I could pretend it was an accident. I
stopped my hand because what am I doing?. He doesn't like m- I felt the back of his fingers graze my arm to
find my hand. His hand stopped at mine , our fingers intertwining. I couldn't describe his touch; The way it
made me feel.
I peaked over at him to see he had his eyes closed too. I smiled at him as I shut my eyes once more.
Holding his hand was enough for now.

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I jolted up from having a nightmare. Ace wasn't beside me and I couldn't remember much from last night. I
remember drinking wine, getting sick and then he asked me to the dance. I tried harder to remember but it
was mostly a blur.
I stared at my hand, remembering that I held his hand as I fell asleep. I blushed at the memories that came
flooding back only to get a massive migraine. I held my head in pain as I heard heavy footsteps approaching
the room.
Ace walked in. "You're awake" his tone was back to being blatant and lifeless. "Yeah" I sighed, my hand
still on my head. "Everyone's gone" He informed me. Things were slightly awkward now between us, I could
feel the tension in the air. "Pills....for your migraine" He tossed them to me. "Thanks" I muttered.
"I have to go and....do some stuff for work, Dante is going to take you shopping to get your dress for the ball"
Ace muttered while he searched for something.
"When?" I stood up, taking the pills. "In 15 minutes" Ace replied carelessly as he rummaged through his
clothes. "Better get dressed then" I said before I strolled out and to my room.
I threw on a a tight skirt and loose top, attempting to do my hair in the process.
—————————
Dante and I had finish shopping quite quickly.
"I'm going to be honest because I don't want you to hurt him" Dante sighed breaking the silence while keeping
his eyes on the road while driving. "Ace is warming up to you, we all can tell and it's a bit scary watching
him be even the slightest bit vulnerable so I'm asking you, don't hurt him" Dante almost pleaded with me .
"Never" I responded, not really sure what Dante meant by warming up.
————————
I had food and went upstairs. I watched the rest of Divergent and Ace wandered in. "You always interrupt my
movies" I glared at him playfully. "Good, it's probably shit" he teased, sitting on the end of my bed. "No it's
not" I gasped in shock at how he could say such a thing. "You haven't even watched any of it".
"I don't like watching movies" Ace mumbled as he stared out my window. "Watch it with me" I tapped the
pillow beside me, signalling for him to come lie down. "I should really get back to work" Ace grumbled as I
could see him debating in his head. "Come onnn, I'll get snacks" I offered, trying to lure him into the dark side
of pure procrastination. He was still hesitant. "Since when does Ace Hernandez have to work?" I gasped,
lying in my bed. "I don't have to work" he made sure to emphasise the don't.
"Sounds to me like you do" I stood up and walked out of my room. "No I don't" Ace followed me. "Then
watch the movie with me, would it kill you to be a teenager for once?" I questioned him, pouting as I grabbed
snacks. "Fine" he caved.
I ran back up to my room and turned on the movie. "We're watching it from the start" I warned him. "You're
one of those people" he glared at me. "What?" I frowned my eyebrows confusedly. "You never watch a
movie all the way through" he groaned as he climbed onto the bed.

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"Yes I do, you just need to watch it from the start to understand" I shook my head as I rewinded the film.
Ace lay next to me with his arm supporting his head and his legs crossed.
We watched the entire film. "Is there more movies, that can't be it!" Ace threw a pillow at my tv. "You liked
it?" I questioned him in shock; I didn't think he'd actually like it. "Yeah, it's alright" he shrugged, playing it
off. "There's two more movies" I smiled menacingly at him. "Turn it on" he shouted, making me jump.
"Okayyy, no need to shout" I wanted as turned on the second movie.
My eyes were glued to the screen whilst I watched Tris and Four. Ace wasn't even watching the screen; I
could see him staring at me from the corner of my eye. I glanced over at him. "Ace, watch the movie" I
smiled softly as my attention went back to the screen.
The movie had ended and I glanced over at Ace who was asleep. I don't blame him, he does so much work.
I lay next to him, staring at him almost longingly. He looked peaceful when he was asleep. "Ace" I whispered
and he didn't respond. He was definitely asleep. "Why do i feel like this?" I whispered as I gently placed my
hand on his cheek. "I shouldn't be feeling this way about you, you're a bad man but you make me feel free;
Ironic considering you're keeping me in the house" I stroked his cheek with my thumb slowly. I smiled softly
at him.
I shut my eyes and fell asleep. I remember the door opening but I really didn't care. It was probably Ice
checking in on Ace.
———————
A few days had passed and it was the day of the ball. From the moment I woke up, Denice had me getting my
nails and hair done. "What time is this ball?" I asked her curiously as I tapped my nails against the table. "It's
at 6 pm" she responded, busy working on my hair. "How many people will be there ?" I asked nervously. "A
lot" she snickered at my nervousness. "Don't worry, it's just our Mafia, our little get together we have every
year. Something new happens each year so I'm excited to see what my husband has planned this time" she
smiled excitedly.
I played with my hands as I bit my bottom lip anxiously. Her husband wasn't the kindest man.
I had finally finished getting everything ready and now it was time to put my dress on.

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A few women helped me into my dress in my room. I could've done it by myself but they insisted on helping
the future Mafia queen.
They kept calling me that and I didn't like it.
"Ace is going to die when he sees you" Denice grinned happily walking into the room. I sighed.
"Kai came back last night and he's on his way home now" Denice warned me. "I love my son, but Kai doesn't
P 14-2
exactly adore Ace" Denice expressed to me as she fixed the shoulder strap of my dress. "Why doesn't he love
his son?" I questioned confusedly. "No one ever really likes the idea of someone taking over and taking their
power, lets be honest" Denice smiled. "Just be careful darling, that's all I'm saying. Mafia Men are not easy
to handle, especially Hernandez men".

P 14-3
I slipped on my heels.
"Sofia, we're ready to leave" Denice shouted up at me from the entrance.
"I'm coming" I said loudly, grabbing my bag and walking out. I walked down the stairs, Ace's mother had
stolen his attention so he was facing away from me. His mom gasped at the sight of me, covering her mouth
with her hands.
I watched as Ace turned around. I saw his jaw drop slightly and his eyes widen. Kai instantly scoffed and
walked out. Ace snapped his head back to his father, giving his father a threatening look.
"I'm sorry I took so long" I muttered to Ace as I played with hands. He grabbed my them gently. "You annoy
me so much when you do that" he admitted, still holding them tightly. I stared into Ace's eyes, my heart was
pounding. He looked down at our hands. Before I could say anything, he shook his head and walked out.
What was that about?.
"Sofia" someone shouted. I turned my head only to see Olivia running down the driveway. "What the fuck!"
Ace growled . "He's a bad person" she shouted at me. "He killed Vince!" Olivia roared as loud as she could.
"He took Ryder and Blake too" she pleaded with me to do something. My eyes widened at the words I was
hearing come out of her mouth. I always knew he had, I just never wanted to admit it; But how does Olivia
know.
"You killed Vince!" I spoke with a shocked tone. "He hurt you!" Ace said angrily. "You don't kill someone
because they say something mean Ace" I shouted at him. His expression became furious. It started rain and it
was getting really dark already. "I can't do anything Olivia" I sighed defeatedly. "What do you mean?" she
yelled at me. "Ace!" I hissed at him. "What" he shouted, scaring me. "Wheres Ryder and Blake!" I shouted
back at him. "Oh no" Kai smiled evilly as he watched Ace clench his fists.
"I'm not letting them go, get in the car now" Ace snarled angrily at me. "Ace your mother would never do
this, put Sofia in her place" Kai yelled at his son. Ace was already flooded with anger. He was definitely
frightening when he was angry.
My heart pounded as I shouted back at him. "Ace, let them go". "Ace, we have to leave" his father shouted at
him. "Ace don't do anything stupid" Denice also shouted at him.
Suddenly Ace didn't have an expression on his face anymore. He walked over to me and grabbed my arm
roughly, pulling me towards the limo. He forced me into the car and shut the door before marching over to
Olivia.
"Who let you in?" Ace spoke angrily. "The guards, I showed them a photo of Sofia and they let me in" Olivia
stood her ground.
"Leave before I kill you too" Ace snapped savagely. "And don't come back" he warned her before getting in
the limo.
The limo pulled up to the guards. "If she's not gone in 5 minutes shoot her" Ace demanded. "No Ace!" I
pleaded but we had already drove away.

P 15-1
The limo ride felt like years. It was also completely silent.
"This will be great for the evening I have planned" Kai broke the silence just as we arrived. I hadn't even
looked at Ace since he told the guards to shoot Olivia. He just left her there.
I got out of the limo and walked up the steps, leading to a huge mansion, even bigger than Ace's. No one was
outside. "We're last in, if you are worrying dear" Denice rubbed my shoulder. "Let me see your arm" she
asked. I held up my arm, showing her where Ace grabbed. Denice shook her head. "That will leave a bruise"
she sighed at her son's actions.
"Not the first one I've gotten and probably not the last" I shook my head as I stood at the door. "I don't even
want to fucking be here" Ace snarled at his father. "Don't let Sofia ruin your night" Kai pushed his sons head,
playfully.
Ace shot his father an angry look. Atleast he doesn't fully hate me. "You, here, beside me" Ace demanded
from behind me. I stopped and walked beside Ace. Kai grabbed the double doors and swung them open. All
eyes turned to the door, where we were standing. "We're here" Kai announced to everyone. They all clapped
as we walked in; There had to be atleast 500 people here, possibly more.
Suddenly I wasn't so angry at Ace, I just wanted him to protect me.
It's almost as if he could sense my fear because he took his hand and wrapped it around my waist, pulling me
closer to him. "Stand tall, don't let them see your fear" Ace whispered in my ear. I nodded slightly in
response. Ace kept a straight but intimidating face at all times. I took his advice and I stood tall, not an ounce
of emotion shown.
"Good" Ace nodded at me.
"If you get lost, our meeting point will be at the doors" Ace whispered to me. "Okay" I whispered back. "The
men in here........we are all murderers, if they look at you and they want you, they will try to take you. Most of
them come with prostitutes dressed up, don't forget that" Ace gave me a few tips as he looked around. "I
already see one eyeing you up" Ace growled angrily. "It's fine, I'm not interested" I mumbled as I looked
around. "Try make friends with the lady's, not the prostitutes" Ace uttered to me. "How do I know the
difference and why the lady's?" I whispered. "Easy, they'll be married, just look for the ring, the ones with
the rings are the ones you should make friends with, it'll be good for business" Ace rambled as he checked
his phone.
I looked around to see a guy staring at me. He winked at me while holding a girl in his arms. I threw him a
disgusted look and he smirked before I turned back to Ace. "I don't like these people Ace" I got closer to
Ace. "You'll be fine as long as you're with me" Ace's grip tightened on my waist, reassuringly.
I have a bad feeling about this.

P 15-2
Ace walked around, greeting people. I just followed him like a lost duckling.
Fancy music played in the background and some people were even holding glasses of wine. It's weird to
think Kai set this all up.
Ace finally went up to someone with a wife. "Ace" Someone smiled at him, shaking his hand. "Mr.Caldez"
Ace replied with a hint of annoyance in his voice; Ace chatted to the man as I stared at his wife. She had a
ring. "I'm Liz" she smiled politely. "I'm Sofia" I shook her hand. "So, how's Ace doing?" She asked me
curiously. "He's good, he complains a lot" I rolled my eyes and she giggled. "You're brave, I like you" Liz
grinned at me. "Thanks but I'm not that brave" I grabbed water off of one of the waiters as they passed.
"Would you not have some wine?" She asked questioningly. "No" I grinned sheepishly. "I'm only 17" I
admitted. "Honey, we're all murders, no one will care if you have a glass of wine" she nodded. "Have you
trained at all?" I asked her, switching the subject. "Oh god no, I couldn't take someone's life everyday, my
heart wouldn't be able to take it" she shook her head. "Yeahhh, I agree" I muttered to her, probably not
sounding convincing. She erupted into laughter but it wasn't a joke. I just smiled and blinked at her. How
many hours do I have of this?.
"Are you trained?" She questioned me. "Yeah, mostly" I shrugged. "What was your first kill like?" she asked
hesitantly. "Mine was okay because I had a reason to kill someone, they didn't die an innocent man" I
admitted, throwing a slight dig at Ace. He wasn't listening though, he was too busy with business.
"So your husbands apart of Ace's Mafia" I asked. "Yeah well, it's hard to explain, see my husbands in
affiliation with Ace's Mafia which means they are friends" she explained with a lot of hand gestures. "So
we're not exactly apart of Ace's group because we like to play it safe" she admitted to me.
"If you don't mind me asking, what age are you?" I took a sip of my water. "I'm 23" she smiled politely.
"How long have you guys been married?" I wondered. "A little over a year" she beamed in delight. "Come
on Sofia" Ace called out to me. "Goodbye, it was nice meeting you" I waved. "It was nice meeting you too,
Sofia" Liz waved back in response.
"Making friends?" Ace asked curiously, raising one of his eyebrows. "I didn't like her, she's a little too fake"
I admitted shrugging. "Good because I hate her husband" Ace really emphasised the hate.
"Your father said that in the car he had something planned" I asked curiously. "He doesn't tell anyone" Ace
shook his head. "Most of the time, it's violent" he looked worried which made the pit in my stomach grow.
"What do you mean violent?" I widened my eyes. "Fights to the death, stuff like that" Ace shrugged. I felt all
the colour drain from my face as I heard him speak. "I'm going to die" I panicked holding my head. I saw Ace
smirk. "I won't let that happen plus that was last year, he has to do something different this year" Ace
shrugged.
"Ok" I nodded, trusting him.
A couple of hours had passed of me and Ace greeting people. I made some friends which was good for Ace.
"My feet hurt" I whined to Ace as I limped after him. "This usually lasts all night" Ace warned me. "I'm not
going to have feet" I gasped dramatically. "Come on, we'll go sit down" he had a soft tone to his voice. Ace
and I walked over to the chairs. He sat next to me, watching me like a hawk. I bounced my knee up and down
P 16-1
nervously as I played with my hands.
Ace stared at me and I knew without him even speaking, he wanted me to stop playing with my hands. I
clenched my fists to stop fidgeting.
I still was shaking my knee nervously. Ace took his hand and forced my knee to stop bouncing from over my
dress. I swallowed hard as I watch his hand. "You get so nervous so easily" Ace licked his lips as he stared
into my soul.
"It's not my fault" I mumbled looking around. "Who's fault is then?" Ace wondered curiously. "My abusive
father's" I stared at a guy who was staring at me. Ace tensed at the brief mention of my father. "You're
probably right" Ace agreed with me for once, moving his hand off my thigh. "Yeah going home everyday,
wondering if I had done anything to upset my father" I smiled slightly turning to Ace. "What was it like?" Ace
asked hesitant to upset me.
"Awful, school was my only escape, probably why I keep insisting to go back" I stared at the floor. "Wow
school, a library would be more interesting" Ace teased playfully. "I know" I giggled.
I looked at my arm and the bruise that was forming. "See what you did?" I scowled at Ace. "Mmm I see it" he
nodded. "You're so mean" I pouted, pressing on my bruise. "Let me see it" he held his hand out.
I showed him my bicep and he grabbed it gently, examining it. "You'll be fine" he rolled his eyes. "You hurt
my feelings" I glared at him. "I'm sorry" he muttered to me but with a teasing tone. I couldn't tell if he was
being genuine or not. "You're lucky, no one's ever gotten an apology off me" he whispered, leaning towards
me, inches from my ear. "My arm still hurts" I uttered. Ace softly grabbed my arm again and planted a kiss
where the bruise was.
Shivers ran up my spine as the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. He glanced up to see my reaction. He
knows what he does to me. "Thanks" I mumbled, not sure what to say. "Does it still hurt" he asked. "No it's
fine" I almost whispered, not able to look at him. I could see him holding back a smile at my reaction.
I seen Kai staring us with a almost angry look.
"Attention, Attention" Kai roared at everyone, trying to grab their attention among the loud chattering.

P 16-2
"Have I got your attention" Kai announced excitedly.
I spotted Dante, Ice and Kaylo with their plus ones. Dante was with his girlfriend, I'm pretty sure he told us
loved her. I'm happy for him.
"All of you are somehow apart of our Mafia, from being apart of the main branch or being an affiliate" Kai
was almost reminding them.
"So, remind me of our most definite rules" Kai smiled evilly.
Everyone started to chant; this shit was like a cult meeting.
"Mafia before love"
"Mafia before life"
"The only way out is to die"
"Die" I squealed at Ace but he didn't even flinch. He wasn't chanting either though. I could tell he was trying
to foreshadow what was coming up.
"So after reading out our most definite rules, this is what this years event is about. To prove your loyalty, this
years event or task as I would like to put it is........". Kai looked in my direction and mouthed, 'you won't
survive'. Ace didn't see his father mouthing because he was too lost in thought.
"I want you to slit the throats of the person you brought here today, our first rule is that you don't let love
come before our Mafia, so prove it" Kai hissed demandingly to the millions of people in the hall. I felt my
heart stop as my eyes widened. I almost fainted. I felt like I was going to throw up; I'm going to be killed by
Ace .
I could see even Ace was in shock. All the women erupted into tears, fearful of what would happen to them. I
didn't.
Ace would probably be doing me a favour.
"We will start off with.....Dante Firmanch" Kai announced smiling sinisterly . "Oh fuck" Ace stumbled back,
not believing what he was hearing.
People came out and lay down a massive tarp and a singe chair. Dante's girlfriend was practically being
dragged to the chair as she screamed, trying to get away. I didn't want to watch this. Most people would have
brought Prostitutes but Dante brought the woman he loved.
Dante was now pale as he was handed a knife and stood in the centre of the room with a crowd around him,
staring at all of us huddled up in the corner of the room. My jaw opened as I watched the girl sob in the chair.
Dante stared at the knife.
"Do it Dante!" Ice screamed at him. Everyone else was silent so silent you could hear a pin drop.
Dante tightened his grip on the knife and composed himself. "He won't actually do it, will he!" Someone
shrieked. Dante walked up to her. "Please Dante, please!" she begged, screaming crying. She knew that
running wasn't an option.
P 17-1
Dante in less than a blink of an eye, ran the knife along her throat. I gasped turning into Ace, hiding in his
chest. Ace's hand held the back of my head, reinforcing my face to be hidden; He didn't want me seeing this
but it was almost an apology. Blood spewed from the gash that Dante had created as the woman clawed at
her throat, gasping for air. But in less than minute, she was on the floor dead.
A few men came in and carried her body away as Dante stared at the blood on his hand. "No hesitation" Kai
clapped, he was an actual psycho.
Everyone was in shock. "Next up is Alex Adderson". Ice walked up. Ice's real name is Alex?. Why is he
called Ice then?.
He grabbed the knife and slit her throat before she even had the chance to sit down. I whimpered in Ace's
chest, hearing the screams. I could hear Ace's heart pounding in his chest as he kept his hand on my head.
I peaked out to where Ice was standing to see him wipe the blood off of his face. Dante was on his knees in
the corner, praying while also crying.
Ace hadn't said a word.
A few more people were called. Men and women were killed; There was blood everywhere. "I'd be worried
if I were you" Liz whispered to me. "Why" I looked at her nervously. "Ace is known for the most brutal
killings" she warned me. Of course. I'm going to die brutally. Just my luck.
"Next is.....ah my son, Ace Hernandez" Kai smirked at our direction. "No" I whimpered looking at Ace who
was about to say something but two men grabbed my arms before Ace had the chance to speak, pulling me
towards the chair. I didn't fight them, or scream. I couldn't stop the inevitable. Maybe this was how I was
supposed to die, atleast it wasn't at the hands of my father.
My heart always knew that my ending wouldn't be peaceful.
"It's an honour to watch Ace" a man cheered as Ace tensely walked behind the men. I didn't want to die but I
probably should have a long time ago.
My eyes welled up with tears as the men brought me onto the tarp, my heels slipping on the blood. A tear
streamed down my face as they sat me in the bloody chair. "No screams?" Kai sighed depressed. "Ace, make
her scream" Kai played with him. Ace stared at the knife on the floor, drenched in blood. He slowly bent
down and picked it up as my heart pounded in my chest. Ace locked eyes with me. I showed no emotion on
my face, the only thing signifying I was sad was a single tear, rolling slowly down my cheek.
I could see Ace's eyes widen as he walked towards me, taking deep breaths. "It's okay" I nodded as I let
another tear slip. "You have to do it, I understand" I nodded again as he approached. "Thanks for saving me,
it was appreciated" my lip quivered as he stood infront of me. Ace didn't want to hear my words. I watched
as his eyes became glossy. Was he tearing up?.
He put the knife to my neck. I took a deep breath and shut my eyes as I prepared for the worst. "What's taking
you so long?" Ice shouted. "You're the Ace Hernandez" Ice screamed at him. Ace clenched his free fist,
pressing the knife against my neck. Blood trickled from the pierced hole in my skin.

P 17-2
Why hasn't he done it yet?.
I opened my eyes to see clenching his jaw and frowning his eyebrows. I put my hand on top of his and urged
him to do it.
Everyone watched in amazement at Ace. He was known for being the devil. Ruthless, Cruel, Cold, Sharp,
Emotionless.
And yet, he struggled to slide the blade across my neck. I re-enforced his grip. "Do it" people started
cheering him on. Ace was overwhelmed, I could see it on his face. "Do it" I whispered. Ace was becoming
pale because even he realized he couldn't do it.
"Ace, what are you doing" his father whispered to him. "I can't fucking do it!" Ace threw the knife on the
ground frustratedly as he backed away from me. Everyone gasped in shock at Ace who stood in the centre of
the room with anger overwhelming him. "You don't have a choice" Kai snarled at him. "Sofia get up now,
we're leaving" Ace demanded. "Ace!" His father hissed at him. I jumped up off the chair and Ace reached out
to me. I grabbed his hand, trying not to slip on the blood.
Me and Ace walked out of the ball, both of us alive somehow.
2 chapters in one day, pretty good ☺

P 17-3
We reached Ace's mansion and as soon as I entered I immediately changed into comfier clothes.
I decided to head downstairs to see how Ace was doing; After all, he did ruin his 'reputation'.
I couldn't tell what he was feeling, he was very hard to read. "I need to clean your cut" he muttered whilst he
rubbed his forehead stressfully. I followed him into the kitchen, silenced by shock. I couldn't believe that he
didn't kill me.
"Sit on the counter" Ace mumbled as he grabbed the first aid kit. He placed it next to me as he stared at the
cut on my neck. "Why didn't you kill me?" I finally gathered the courage to ask, not able to resist any longer.
"My father took it too far this year!" Ace snapped as he poured alcohol onto a cotton ball. "Yeah but that still
doesn't explain why you didn't kill me?" I shrugged curiously. "Would you kill me?" He stared at me
intensely. "No" I spoke with a blatant tone.
"There you go, that's your answer, can you explain why because I can't" he rambled annoyed. "You should've
killed me, you probably would be worshipped right now" I mumbled as I pictured Ace being bowed at. "I'd
rather have someone I trust than be worshipped" he muttered quietly as he dabbed the wound on my neck. I
hissed through my teeth at the burning from the alcohol on my neck. "You trust me?" I sounded surprised. "I
trust you" he admitted. "I've never trusted anyone so I'm putting a lot of faith in you and considering I ruined
my devil image for you" he smirked playfully.
He wasn't even upset about it which made myself even more puzzled than before.
"Come onnnn, I knew you weren't the devil" I muttered playfully elbowing his arm. "Your cut is still
bleeding" he sighed, rubbing his forehead stressfully again. I grabbed his hand and pulled it away from his
forehead. "You annoy me when you do that" I mimicked Ace earlier, putting on a deep voice. A crease
formed between Ace's eyebrows. "Wow your hands are so big" I held my hand against his to compare the
sizes. I felt drawn to him like the way magnets are pulled together. "No you just have little hands" He replied
softly while looking at me.
Ace finished bandaging up the wound that the knife had left.
But he was interrupted by banging on the door. He glanced at the door suspiciously. I could see the worry in
his gaze and the anger in his frown. The thumping on the door was violent and strong, so strong it was almost
echoing through out the empty house. "Hold this" he handed me a knife. "If anyone comes near you, stab them"
Ace growled protectively as he walked out to the door.
I heard loud thumps as Ace's footsteps approaching the door. There was pitter patters on the window from
the rain but the noise got louder as the rain came down faster. Ace opened the door. All I could hear was
muffled voices. "You fucking idiot" I heard someone yell.
I tip toed over to the corner to try and hear the conversation.
Ace and Ice walked into the kitchen. "Where even is she?"Ice hissed at Ace. "She's upstairs" Ace rolled his
eyes at Ice. "Your dad had to keep going without you, do you know how embarrassed he is?" Ice said
frustratedly. "I wasn't going to kill an innocent woman" Ace grumbled at Ice. "You have killed plenty of
people" Ice yelled, slamming his fists down on the counter. He lifted his hand and stared at my blood that had
spewed from my neck onto the counter; Which was now on his hand. "You just want to fuck her, I don't blame
P 18-1
you, I do too, I even asked her but she's so caught up with you she wouldn't glance twice at me" Ice rambled
with a smirk, knowing he was getting on Ace's nerves.
"So did she scream?" Ice chuckled at Ace. Ace chuckled back at Ice, shaking his head and biting his lip
before throwing a punch. "See what I mean, you don't just want to fuck this girl, you want her, all of her" Ice
looked at Ace disgusted. Ace didn't reply he just stared at Ice.
"You're not even denying it" Ice hissed at Ace. Ace shrugged vaguely, atleast he didn't say no?. "She was so
good in bed that it put you in a trance, let me get some of that" Ice laughed dramatically, attempting to catch
Ace off guard. I watched as Ace clenched his jaw in disgust at his words. "Fuck you, you weak bitch" Ace
growled. "Did you get it in, we know you have a small dick" Ice giggled to himself. Ace rolled his eyes at
him. "What is it? 3inches" Ice questioned. "It's 8 but we'll go with 3" Ace smirked happily , knowing that I
heard. 8 inches?.
Ice's face immediately dropped. "You're lying" he sneered. "No ..... I'm not, I'll whip it out right now" Ace
chuckled at Ice's expression. "Well then, no wonder why she's so obsessed with you, she only wants to fuck
you, you're the one being played" Ice laughed trying to drag out this argument after seeing Ace was getting
bored. "Just leave" Ace rolled his eyes, beginning to get agitated.
"Oh my god...." Ice's jaw dropped. Ace looked at him curiously. "You haven't fucked her yet" Ice covered his
mouth with hand in shock. Ace stared at the floor, almost ashamed.
"No he didn't but we can right now" I winked at Ice as I walked over to Ace. I walked over to Ace as I
kissed his neck. Ace bit his bottom lip as he guided my head to his. Ice watched awkwardly as myself and
Ace stared intensely at eachother. "Leave" I demanded but he didn't budge. I did this because I wanted Ice
gone and I knew Ace did too.
Ace ran his hand down my stomach, heading for my trousers. Ice turned away. "Get out" Ace warned him
with a scowl. "We're not finished Ace" Ice hissed not staring at us. "For now we are" Ace growled
frustratedly as he grabbed Ice and threw him out.

P 18-2
Sexual scenes ahead so just skip to the next chapter if you don't want to read it.
Ace slammed the door shut after Ice, locking it. I saw that Ace had his forehead against the door. "Ace you
ok?" I asked nervously, hoping I hadn't made him angry by the little stunt I pulled. Ace didn't say anything.
Instead, he stormed over in my direction with a furious look on his face. He grabbed my waist and pulled me
close to him. So close that I could feel his breath on my skin.
"I'll return the favour" he informed as he kissed my neck, making my legs weak. He grabbed the back of my
neck, kissing deeply; A soft moan escaping my lips as he continued.
"Ace?" I muttered nervously, breaking the contact between his lips and my skin. He grunted in response,
shaking his head, signalling that he didn't want to stop. I glanced down to see his bulge had become more
prominent. I won't lie, apart of me felt accomplished.
I inched towards him slowly. "You don't have too" he warned me, catching his breath from kissing my neck.
He knew what I wanted to do; What I was longing to do. The fact that I've never touched a guy before seemed
to run through my head.
"I want too" I nodded, reassuring him before I felt his hard bulge.
"We can't do this in the kitchen, there's camera's" Ace warned me with a worried glance. "Then let's go to
your room" I replied as I walked out of the room. He looked shock but quickly followed after me.
——————
"What do you want me to do?" I asked him, letting him choose. "Do whatever you're comfortable with" he
growled, jumping on his bed. I gulped nervously as I walked towards him. "You don't have to do this" Ace
said again after clearing his throat. "I want to, I want to learn" I admitted nervously. Ace nodded before
unbuckling his belt and sliding his trousers off. He was in just his underwear. He stared at me with lustful
eyes and a frustrated frown.
I climbed onto the bed beside him. "Have you ever done this before?" Ace asked me, remembering that I
would've never attempted anything like this when I was in my fathers home. Before I never understood why
he wanted me to be 'pure' but now I do.
"No" I admitted before he nodded as he took off his underwear. "Mouth or hand, I'll teach you?" Ace
questioned me with a raised eyebrow. "Mouth" I uttered quietly. I watched as a smirk appeared on his face
before it quickly faded away.
"Just do it and you'll know if I like it" Ace nodded at me reassuringly. I stared at his dick; It was big and I'm
not going to lie, I was a little intimidated. I placed my mouth on the tip as I stared at Ace who nodded to
show me I was doing the right thing before he started clenching his jaw. "Now move your head up and down"
he grunted as I started bobbing my head repeatedly, one of his hands gripping the bed and one resting on the
back of my head. I wasn't able to reach the bottom but he seemed to enjoy it. I glanced up at Ace who nodded
back at me.
Ace's breathing started getting heavier after a good few minutes of me bobbing my head. I kept going as I
P 19-1
enjoyed. Ace grabbed the sides of his pillow before getting me to stop. "Switch to your hand if you're tired"
he grumbled. I had one of my hands resting where his V line started and one wrapped around his dick. I gave
him an unsure glance before he placed his hand over mine and showed me how to pump his dick.
"Use both" He groaned as I pushed his hand off and started using my mouth again but this time I took my hand
and pumped the rest I couldn't fit. His dick was so hard. "Fuck" Ace growled as he ran his hand through his
hair frustratedly.
I kept repeating the steps and eventually he came, letting out a deep moan. His legs tensed and a white liquid
squirted from his dick into my mouth. One of his hands were clenching the side of the bed whilst the other
clenched my hair at the back of my head.
His body became relaxed as he released his grip on my hair. "Good girl" he mumbled under his breath as he
breathed heavily.
I climbed up beside Ace. He pulled his underwear back up to his waist before hoovering over me. "Do you
want something in return?" He asked curiously, running his finger along my lips. I nodded my head but that
wasn't good enough for him. "Tell me you want me to eat you out" he demanded dominantly. "I want you to
eat me out" I spoke with desperation almost. Ace smirked before nodding contently.
He slid my sweatpants down to my knees, watching my face become flustered.
"Don't be nervous" Ace whispered as he played with the outside of my heat with his fingers, teasing me. He
showed his two fingers to me before saying "look at how wet you are". He kissed my stomach to right above
my clit, making my cheeks glow bright red. He smiled at me as he licked my clit, causing me to moan. He ran
his tongue up and down, making me wonder why I ever waited for someone to do this to me.
He swirled his tongue in circles causing me to almost scream with pleasure. He took two of his fingers and
forced them in me, making me moan loudly. He knew that it would hurt but in a good way. "You're so tight"
he grinned as he continued to work on me.
My back arched with pleasure as I rolled my eyes. "S-top I'm going to-" I started to orgasm while I moaned
satisfied as Ace kept licking. He licked me clean. "You taste good" he smiled as he wiped his mouth. Ace lay
back down, wiping his face with his shirt.
Me and Ace talked for awhile before the conversation slowly died, leaving just him and I in silence.
As I lay next to him, he looked lost in thought, as if he wanted to say something until he finally began to speak
hesitantly.
"I.....I used to be a good guy you know; I was a good kid. You probably would've liked me more then, I
wouldn't of mistreated you when I was 15. It was only three years ago but it feels like lifetimes ago;
something changed not long after my 15th birthday. I feel like if I was given the chance, I could've been a
good guy but that wasn't an option so now you're stuck with the shitty version of me. I was more of a man then
than I am now" he spoke, letting his thoughts out.
"This version isn't shitty, it's just harder to deal with, that's all" I grinned teasingly as I glanced over at him.

P 19-2
Ngl I kinda cringed writing this but it's for their development ok

P 19-3
A few days had passed and I was getting tired of being trapped in the mansion. Ace was always out working
too so it's not like I could annoy him.
I grabbed the house phone and dialled Ace's number. It took a few tries but eventually answered with an
unpleasant tone. "Hello" his deep, husky voice said through the phone. "Heyyy" I bit my bottom lip nervously.
"Sofia, what's wrong?" Ace asked. I could hear some noises in the background. "I'm bored, can I go out to get
food?" I questioned quickly, praying that he would let me out of the house for a day. I heard his frustrated
sigh through the phone. "Take a body guard" He said exhaustedly, having no energy to argue with me. "Thank
you" I squealed happily, cheering forgetting Ace was on the phone. "Oh- Uh bye" I uttered awkwardly into
the phone.
"Sofia be careful!" Ace yelled through the phone. "I'll be the most careful person you ever met, ok bye" I
uttered quickly, hanging up the phone before he could change his mind. I called Terry, Ace's personal
bodyguard and told him that he had to come with me.
Terry was really big and muscular. He wasn't as intimidating as Ace though.
————————
Terry was outside of the shop, waiting for me to finish shopping. I looked through the racks of clothes.
I noticed a girl next to me, also looking through the clothing racks. "Hey" she smiled. "Hi" I replied looking
serious. "Can't find anything either?" she asked me, sighing desperately. "No, they have really weird designs"
I scrunched my nose. She smiled at my words. "I think this would look very cute on you" she pulled out a
really nice t-shirt. "Oh my god, that's actually cute" I gasped as I stared at the piece of clothing in her hand.
"Is there anything particular you're looking for" I asked her curiously. "Yeah, I'm looking for a dress for my
brothers wedding, not anything too fancy you know?" She shook her disappointedly at the clothes.
"Oh I completely understand" I widened my eyes in response. "You have brothers?" She sounded surprised.
"I have 5 brothers" I rolled my eyes as I smiled. "Are they cute?" She asked excitedly, making me giggle.
"Not in my eyes".
"You seem nice, do you want to grab food before I stress about what to wear?" She asked. "Yeah, I was
planning on getting food anyway" I nodded in agreement. "Cool" she beamed as I paid for the shirt.
"What's your name by the way?" I realised I forgot to ask. "I'm Cara" she smiled politely shaking my hand.
"I'm Sofia" I spoke confidently, shaking her hand. "Sofia? I love that name" she chirped as we walked out.
—————————
Me and Cara eventually ended up leaving and I brought her back to Ace's mansion.
"Woahhhhh this is where you live" she gasped, staring at the giant house. "Yeahhh" I laughed awkwardly.
"Name and ID?" Ace's security guards asked Cara who gave me an unsure glance. "Oh don't worry, it's just
security reasons" I rolled my eyes, trying to reassure her. Obviously I couldn't tell her the real reason why
Ace had guards.

P 20-1
—————————
Me and Cara sat on the couch as we watched a movie and bonded about having brothers.
"My brothers always burp in my face" I giggled at Cara who was wheezing. "That's disgusting" she laughed.
"What do you do about it?" She questioned disgusted. "There's not much I can do" I replied with a sad tone
whilst looking at the TV. "I'll have to introduce you to my other friends, they would love you" Cara grabbed
her phone.
I heard the door open and close. "Sofia?" I heard Ace's voice call out to me. "I'm in here" I responded to
Ace, sort of nervously. Ace's footsteps approached to the living room door and soon after, he entered. I
watched Cara's jaw drop slightly as she stared at him. "Holy shit" she gasped.
Ace didn't have a happy look on his face. "Are you ok?" I asked him worriedly. "Fine" he growled angrily as
he glared at Cara. "This is Cara" I introduced her. Ace turned his attention from her to me. "Did you find any
clothes you like?" Ace questioned me curiously. "Yeah, I found a few so they should last awhile before I
need new ones" I nodded happily. "Good" Ace walked out.
"Holy shit! Your brother is fucking hot" Cara fanned herself with her hand. "Oh he's not- I'm her fiancé" Ace
stated, interrupting me as he strolled back in. "He's my fiancé" I grinned awkwardly with Ace standing next
to me. "Really? Oh so you heard me say- don't worry, not the first time I've been told it and certainly not the
last" Ace cut her sentence off while cracking one of his knuckles; he seemed on edge but I couldn't figure out
why. He probably just doesn't like Cara.
How did she admit that openly in front of him though?.
"How did you guys meet?" She wondered as she held her mug of coffee in her hands. "Through friends" we
both quickly said, exactly at the same time. "Wow, that was a definite answer" Cara chuckled. I almost felt
like high fiving Ace for reading my mind.
"I'm going to my office" Ace announced before strutting out. "Ok" I practically whispered in response.
"Wow he's fucking hot" Cara squealed. "Don't say that, it'll boost his ego and that's already big enough" I
smirked evilly. "You guys seem like you get along really well" she had a confused look on her face. "Well
yeah I guess, why?" I asked curious to see why we wouldn't. "You guys seem like polar opposites, he hardly
spoke and didn't smile once" Cara said as she reflected on moments ago.
"Yeah but that's just who he is, it would be weird if Ace was so open with everyone" I thought out loud.
"How long have you guys been engaged?" She questioned me. "A month-ish" I replied, taking a sip out of my
drink while staring at the TV.

P 20-2
I sat up suddenly with a jolt.
My breathing was heavy and my forehead was almost dripping of sweat. My heart felt like it was going to
burst through my chest as I took a few deep breaths. I looked around my pitch black room letting my eyes
adjust to the darkness for a moment.
I lay back, letting out a sigh of relief after calming down; I couldn't even remember what the dream was about
which was probably for the best. I climbed out of bed and checked my alarm. 2:32 am. I rolled my eyes and
wiped the sweat off of my forehead with my sleeve.
I stumbled out of my bedroom and headed for the kitchen. Ace's parents hadn't come home from the ball in
days, but wouldn't be worried, they probably have houses all over the country.
I was still shaking as I filled up a glass of water in the kitchen. "You're up" I heard a voice say causing me to
jump 10 feet in the air.
"Holy fuck Ace" I panted, already being scared from my dream. "Why are you awake?" he asked while
staring out the window across the room. "No reason, I was just thirsty" I shrugged taking a drink out of the
glass. Ace nodded in response.
Something about his demeanour was off. He seemed upset but in his own way; He was scowling at a photo
on the wall and he couldn't seem to keep his eyes off it. He a cigarette in his hand which probably helped him
cope with the stress of being a mafia leader.
"Why are you up?" I asked him with a soft tone only to realize Ace doesn't really sleep. "I don't like
sleeping" He admitted as he pressed his lips against the cigarette. "Why not" I almost whispered considering
how quiet the house was. "I don't like to dream" he answered truthfully. "That's weird, most people love to
dream" I said confusedly but astonished at what just came out of Ace's mouth.
"Why would I want to dream of things that will never happen, it doesn't make sense?" Ace shrugged as he
flicked his cigarette bud out the window. I mean, he had a valid point. "Well you're not very hopeful" I raised
my eyebrows at him. "I'm Ace Hernandez, my life is full of pain and misery, of course I'm hopeless" he
rolled his eyes, mocking what people say about him.
"You're not in a good mood" I scowled at him. "No , I'm not" he hissed angrily but not at me, I assume it was
towards the mafia. "Do you need a hug?" I pouted playfully. He didn't respond and kept his glare towards the
window. "Oh my god you do want one" I said surprised.
"I've never needed one so why would I need one now?" He grumbled. "Ok fine but in all seriousness you
need one" I uttered, standing with my arms open towards him from across the room. "No" he scowled
threateningly at me. "What are you going to do? Kill me?" I mocked him teasingly. "Wish I had" he rolled his
eyes. That better have been a joke.
"What's got you in a bad mood?" I asked again, becoming genuinely worried. "Why do you even care?" He
snapped abruptly while slamming his fist on the table. I covered my face with my hands but since Ace's
sweatshirt was too big on me, only the sleeves also helped me hide. I listened to his quiet footsteps approach
where I was standing. I could hear the shakiness in his breath that was inches away from me.

P 21-1
"Because I care about you" I mumbled softly as I began taking my hands down from my face. His face
instantly calmed at my words. I grabbed his hand slowly but with caution of course. I could feel the burning
desire between us. Our fingers intertwined beneath us, refusing to let go. Ace's breathing slowed as looked at
up at him gently.
"You don't have to pretend everything's fine anymore Ace, I know somethings wrong" I whispered to him,
making sure he was calming down. He had this glaze over his eyes like he wanted to cry. "What happened?" I
said with a hushed tone.
"Nothing" Ace mumbled, shaking his head. "What's wrong!" I demanded to know, grabbing his cheek gently
with my free hand. He opened his mouth to speak but nothing came out. "Ace you can tell me, I'm on your
side!" I reassured him. I hated seeing him like this. He glanced at floor before looking me straight in the eye.
He leaned into my hand and shut his eyes, taking in my touch. He opened his eyes again and let out sigh. "My
father killed my mother at the ball, I just got word of it a few minutes ago" Ace uttered quietly, almost like he
didn't want to say it; It's like if he said it, he would have to believe it.
I felt my eyes water, I don't know why. Maybe it was the fact I knew his mom was the only person in his life
that truly cared for him as best she could under the circumstances. Catching him off guard, I wrapped my
arms around him. "I'm sorry" I mumbled, tears rolling down my cheeks. Her soul was beautiful and did not
belong in the Mafia; that evil man kept a chain around her.
He didn't respond but his arms slowly raised to my back and then he wrapped his arms around me, holding
onto me like I was the only stable thing in his life. He clung onto me, not wanting to let go. "I'm sorry, I'm so
sorry Ace" I cried softly, holding him as tight as I could. He buried his head into my neck. I moved one of my
hands to the top of his head. "She didn't deserve that.....you didn't deserve that" I whispered to him as I
sniffled. He shook his head slowly as I saw one of his tears drop to the floor.
I pretended I didn't see it; Until another one fell to the floor. He didn't budge his head from neck. "It's ok" I
whispered holding him close. "It's my fault, I shouldn't of left her with him" he mumbled painfully. "No....no
it's not, don't ever say that" I whispered to him. "I left her there" he spoke with agony in his voice. "You
couldn't of known" I cried for him as I rested my hand on the back of his head.
I couldn't help but feel guilty for some part in this. If Ace had just killed me, his father wouldn't have
punished him like this.
"I'll never see her again" Ace admitted shaking his head again, still burying his face in my neck.
I grabbed Ace's face with my two hands, pulling him out of my grip to see his face. He was hesitant but he
glanced at me before looking at floor; His eyes were red and glossy. I stroked his cheek, wiping away his
tear with my thumb. "I believe you'll see her again someday" I whispered quietly to Ace who didn't break his
stare from the ground. "I don't want to do this anymore" Ace finally let out. The sad thing is that I knew
exactly how he felt.
I just pulled him back into my embrace.
A few minutes passed of us just holding eachother. "Come on, you need to sleep" I whispered to him, taking
his hand and leading him to his room. "No" Ace spoke sharply. "You have to" I gazed at him with slight pout.
"Fine" he sighed with disappointment.
P 21-2
I opened his bedroom door. It was still messy but it was bland; There was no posters or anything. We both
climbed onto the bed.
Ace lay facing me before he let out a sigh. "Just shut your eyes" I whispered, stroking his cheek. "I don't like
sleeping" Ace hesitantly admitted again but closed his eyes anyway. A few minutes had passed.
"Ace" I whispered.
"Yeah" he replied, making me snicker slightly.
"You're supposed to be asleep" I glared at him. "I told you I don't like sleeping" Ace repeated again. I threw
him a scowl in the dark. "Can I have you're hand" I asked suddenly. Ace moved his hand next to my head.
I started drawing soothing circles on the centre of his palm with my finger. Ace finally relaxed, his body
wasn't tense anymore. "You're so tense" I whispered lifting up the back of his shirt. Ace didn't even ask what
I was doing . I grazed my finger along his back causing him to smile slightly. "You like this?" I questioned
him quietly. He hummed in satisfaction. That's how I knew he was finally falling asleep.
A few more minutes had passed. I knew he was asleep because of his even breaths and relaxed body. I went
to get up and leave from drawing on his back, only for Ace's hand to grab my wrist, not letting me leave. He
was half asleep. I couldn't help but smile at his relaxed expression; he really is flawless.
"You deserved better than the life you were given" I whispered gently as I shut my eyes.

P 21-3
I had just woken up.
That was the first good night sleep I've had in awhile. Cara was coming over today with some of her friends
but part of me is scared that Ace will be attracted to one of them and completely forget about me.
Ace wasn't next to me which wasn't a surprise but atleast he got some sleep last night. I saw a journal sitting
on Ace's desk; I'm not going to read it to respect his privacy but I am curious about what he writes in there.
I crawled out of bed and got dressed. It was starting to get cold outside as it headed into winter. Of course
Ace was standing at the door with his shirt off, not even cold in the slightest. "You're going to get sick" I
mumbled while crossing my arms and looking in the fridge.
"I made pancakes and I don't care about the cold" Ace uttered with his eyes closed, taking it in rather than
letting it disturb his physical peace. "Ooo" I said happily, looking for the plate of pancakes. "I put them in the
microwave so that they wouldn't go cold" he said. I took them out of the microwave and grabbed a fork. I
wondered how good Ace is at cooking as I swirled some whipped cream ontop of the pancakes and
shovelled a spoonful into my mouth.
"These are so good" I gasped with my mouthful. "Don't speak with your mouthful" Ace scowled at me. "My
mouth was full with something else the other day and you didn't mind" I winked playfully at him, getting a
smirk and snicker in response.
Ace shook his head. I put down my plate of pancakes and walked over to him. "Still hurts?" I asked sadly,
getting a nod in response. I grabbed his hand, intertwining our fingers and rested my head on his shoulder. He
rested his head on mine as a sigh escaped my lips. "Is your dad gone for good?" I questioned Ace being
cautious, I know he's still sensitive about this topic. "Yeah, he went to live at our other house in Florida and
he will have no power in the Mafia any longer. He won't be coming back, not for a long time at the least."
Ace stated angrily while staring out the window with a crease between his eyebrow and his hands clenched
into fists. "I want to kill him" Ace growled furiously, squeezing my hand. I no squealed in pain and Ace
instantly let go after realizing what he was doing.
"Sorry" he mumbled taking my hand and pressed his lips against my knuckles. Shivers ran down my spine as
his lips touched my skin. My breath hitched slightly and he definitely noticed.
"Cara and the girls are coming over today, are you ok with that?" I asked Ace, wanting to change the topic so
that he wouldn't be so angry or upset. He nodded. "If it's not you can tell me" I reassured him. "No it's fine"
he muttered while stretching his back.
"I don't even want them to come over" I grumbled, rolling my eyes. "Let them come over and then after they
leave, we can go do something" Ace shrugged. "Wow, you want to hang out with me?" I gasped with my hand
on my chest, speaking in a playfully shocked tone. Ace snickered at me before rolling his eyes.
"I know, I'm the coolest.....and the prettiest" I added quickly after. Ace shook his head as he stared at the
ground. "Say it" I scowled at him. "No" he smirked. "Say it" I squished his cheeks with my hand. "No" he
struggled to say trying not to smile. "Say ittttt" I glared at him. "Ok ok" Ace rolled his eyes. "You're the
coolest" he mumbled. "And ....." I waited for a response. "And the prettiest" he grumbled hesitantly. "I knew
it" I giggled. He smirked at me.

P 22-1
"Stop doing that" I frowned at him. "What?" Ace went to take a cigarette out of the box. "Stop smirking" I
stopped his hands from moving. "Smoking is bad for you" I teased him. "I know, that's why I do it, I'm a bad
boy" Ace winked playfully in response. "Oh really, I couldn't tell, that skull tattoo on your neck doesn't give
it away at all" I said sarcastically.
He smiled softly at the floor.
Our conversation was interrupted by the doorbell.
"I love your smile, you really should do it more" I muttered to him as I walked to the front door.
I opened the door to see Cara and her 3 friends.
"Heyyy" I smiled, hugging Cara. "Guys this is Sofia" Cara introduced me. "Heyyy" they all said in sync
whilst Ace peeped his head around the corner. "I'm Scarlett" one of them said walking in and hugging me. I
could see why she's called Scarlett, she had dark red hair with matching lipstick. "I'm Riley" a short girl with
long blonde hair introduced herself. "I'm Kate" the last one introduced herself as she looked around
suspiciously. Kate had short dyed black hair with also bright red lipstick and barely any clothes on.
"Get the fuck out" Ace growled at Kate.
"Oh my god, Aceeee its been forever" Kate said in high pitch happy tone. "Oh shit" Cara face planted.
"What's happening?" Riley asked confused. "Probably one of her old fuck buddies" Scarlett joked. "Shut up"
Cara hissed at Scarlett knowing I could hear everything.
"You're not allowed in my house, get out" He grabbed her and threw her outside. I just blinked a few times
but I'm not really surprised. "I don't allow filth in my house" Ace grumbled as he walked upstairs.
"What is even happening?" I whispered to Cara who just shrugged. "She dated Dante and cheated on him and
then tried to get with me" Ace grumbled frustratedly. "I don't allow cheats in my house" Ace barked
viscously at her. "Well then you would wanna step outside too then" Kate smirked evilly. In the blink of an
eye, Ace had a gun pointer at her.
Cara and the other girls shrieked, cuddling up in a corner. My eyes widened as Ace pointed the gun at Kate.
"We only met Kate a few days ago too" Cara defended herself and her friends. I wasn't scared of Ace but I
was scared of what he could do to other people.
"Ace" I grabbed his attention, forcing him to look at me. "Put the gun down" I approached him. "No" he
snarled at me. I stood in front of the gun. "Put it down" I repeated quietly but with a demanding tone. "If you
don't move, I'll kill you too" Ace threatened me as he moved his finger to the trigger. "I know she deserves it
but you don't need to kill people to get your point across" I was now speaking anxiously but with a confident
tone.
Ace bit his bottom lip before sliding the gun back into his belt and walking upstairs. "You're definitely not
invited" I slammed the door in Kate's face.
"Um, do you guys wanna watch a movie?" I asked as Scarlett, Riley and Cara who were all cuddled up in the
corner, petrified.

P 22-2
"You stood in front of his gun, are you crazy?" Scarlett yelled at me, not believing what she just saw.
"Maybe" I shrugged before walking into the living room.

P 22-3
After the whole incident, it took the girls awhile to settle down which isn't surprising.
"Here I'll get blankets and stuff" I hopped up off of the couch and ran upstairs.
I really just wanted to check on Ace but I knew I had to give him awhile to calm down before I did.
I knocked lightly on Ace's door. I peaked in to see Ace sitting on the edge of his bed, running his hands
through his hair stressfully.
"Are you angry at me?" He asked with a certain vulnerability in his voice. "No, are you angry at me?" I asked
nervously. He shook his head, no. I walked up to him but not before shutting his door. "I couldn't kill you
even if I wanted to" Ace admitted vulnerably. "I know" I rubbed his back whilst standing beside him.
I know he's hurting from his mothers death; it's making him think and act irrationally.
Ace's shirt was off and for the first time ever he was in sweatpants. His room was dark and the only source
of light was the sun peaking through the heavy black curtains.
He stood up and I knew without him even having to ask that he wanted a hug. I held him as close as I possibly
could; He was so warm. He rested his head on my shoulder as he breathed slowly and heavily. "I don't like
seeing you hurt" I confessed. "I deserve it" he shook his head. "No, no one deserves to lose a mother" I
uttered to him.
"You're so tall" I mumbled changing the subject to a more positive one. I could feel him smile even though I
couldn't see his face.
"I should probably get back to the girls" I muttered quietly to Ace. He sighed, releasing me from his grip. "If
you need anything, let me know" I said as I walked to the door, his hand still holding onto mine for as long as
he could. As soon as our hands stopped touching, I felt empty again. It was horrible. I stared at him for a
moment, wondering if he could feel it too.
I shook myself out of the trance before walking downstairs.
"Sorry I had to do something" I explained while I handed them blankets and pillows. "It's fine" Riley smiled
with her mouth full of popcorn. I giggled at her. Cara was inhaling all the chocolate and Scarlett was eating a
carrot. "Why a carrot?" I laughed while also confused. "It's great for your eye sight" she smiled innocently,
still chomping on the carrot. "Just don't question it" Cara laughed as we watched the film.
We had watched a few movies and now we were talking.
"Ace is unbelievably attractive" Riley admitted. I rolled my eyes. "God, he's gorgeous" Scarlett added,
joining in on the conversation. "Yeah but he's taken" Cara sighed, smiling at me. "I'm assuming Sofia has him
because of her actions earlier" Scarlett smiled. "Yeah" I shrugged unbothered. "He was sculpted by a god"
Riley gushed thinking about Ace.
"Yeah" I mumbled. Suddenly I was bothered; I didn't like other girls talking about Ace.
"Guys he's taken, we had our moment now stop talking about him" Cara warned them realizing I didn't like
them talking about him. "Ok ok" Riley sighed.
P 23-1
"Hey Sofia" Ace called out to me. "Yeah" I yelled from the living room. "What are you doing tomorrow?" he
asked me, walking in, wearing just his sweatpants. His hair was wet so he must've taken a shower.
I could see all the girls drooling over him and I wanted to gouge their eyes out. "Nothing why?" I asked him
curiously, trying not to show my jealousy. "I was going to see if you wanted to go out?" Ace muttered, staring
at only me. "Yeah sure" I nodded at him. "Cool" he stood there.
"I'm Riley" Riley introduced herself, taking Ace's eyes off of me. Ace scowled at her. "I know" he snapped.
"Come on" I snarled grabbing his hand pulling him towards the stair. "What was that?" Ace grinned knowing
I was jealous.
"Nothing" I played with my hands. Ace licked his lips while looking me up and down. "I made you jealous"
he almost beamed with happiness. "No" I snapped embarrassed. He chuckled lightly. "Ok then, let me just-
he went to walk back into the living room.
"No" I grabbed his hand again. He pulled me into him, our bodies touching and our lips inches apart. "You
don't trust me around other women?" He raised an eyebrow at me, staring straight into my eyes. I shook my
head, admitting I didn't. He let out a small sigh. "What do I have to do to prove I've only got my eye on you?"
Ace asked me. I shrugged because I really didn't know. Ace ran his hand along the side of my body, his hand
moving where my body curved.
"Don't be jealous, every other girl is worthless to me now" Ace smirked at me still being jealous. "That still
doesn't help" I folded my arms and playfully pouted. Ace let a smile slip before he brushed his thumb against
my lip to stop me from pouting.
"Go enjoy your night" Ace muttered to me hesitantly. I rolled my eyes at him. He rolled his eyes back at me
as we both walked away.
Me and the girls fell asleep while watching movies.

P 23-2
I rubbed my eyes as I looked around. The light that peaked through the curtains was blinding considering how
dark the room was.
I stumbled out of my bed and walked downstairs. I saw Ace cooking while the girls ate their breakfast; He
made them breakfast?.
"You're fiancé won't make us breakfast so I made some cereal and the other girls made toast" Riley smiled,
holding up her bowl. Riley reminded me of a mature 4 year old who didn't know how to count to 10. She was
funny at times but mostly seemed clueless about everyone and everything around her.
"Here" Ace handed me a plate full of food. I seen the girls drool over it. "Thanks" I smiled softly at him,
trying to show my appreciation. "No problem" he mumbled going to do the dishes.
"Here" I giggled at them, sliding some of the food onto their plates. "What about you?" Cara asked slightly
shocked. "I'm not hungry" I scrunched my nose and shook my head. Cara nodded in response and began to eat.
"You're the best" Scarlett uttered as she practically inhaled Ace's food.
"I'm sorry I gave your food away" I said to Ace as I dried the dishes that he had cleaned. "It's ok, I knew you
wouldn't eat it anyway" Ace shrugged. "How did you know?" I spoke with a curious tone. "You never eat
breakfast, plus you sleep in a lot so you normally skip breakfast accidentally" Ace rambled while he
scrubbed the dishes.
"Thanks for making it anyway" I pecked his cheek. Ace was always in a suit, no matter what day it was and
no matter what was happening that day.
"Oh you said we were going somewhere today?" I reminded Ace. "Yeah, I thought I'd bring you to work, let
you see what I get up to during the day, if course, you don't have to come if you don't want to" Ace handed me
a plate . "No , I actually want to"I replied reassuringly. He nodded as we kept doing the dishes.
——————————
Me and Ace were in the car. The girls had gone home and Ace seemed a lot more relaxed now that we were
alone. "Is it not annoying?" I asked Ace curiously. "Is what annoying?" He lifted his head to make eye contact
with me while also fixing his tie; I could feel his gaze slowly travelling down my body.
"Working so much?" I questioned. Working in the mafia requires a lot of paperwork to be filled out, a lot of
killing and especially getting confessions.
"Yeah but I have to do it, I don't really have a choice" Ace shrugged pulling out his phone.
————————
We arrived at a massive building that was a pale yellow colour and had very few windows. This facility
was guarded by gates upon gates. Ace had to scan his hand multiple times, through many different doors until
we finally reached the last door.
Ace scanned his hand one last time, finger and face before the door opened. It was a heavy, metal door that
had a simplistic design on it. Ace strolled in and walked down the dimly lit corridors. The floor beneath us
P 24-1
was also metal or some type of steel with little holes in it. I started to hear faint screams coming from the
distance. My heart instantly started pounding as they got closer but it didn't seem to bother Ace at all.
I've trained with Mafia but not like this. I've killed people but I've never tortured them to get evidence or
information; I've killed 3 people, only because my father forced me. All I could hear was the continuous
tapping of our feet against the metal floor as we strutted through the lifeless hallways, our footsteps echoing
repeatedly. Ace rolled his eyes in annoyance at the fact he had to scan his hand again. "That's a lot of
scanners" I commented sheepishly. "Yeah, security reasons" he scoffed with a stern look plastered on his
face.
"I didn't tell you this before we came but I want to test you" Ace was almost warning me. "Test me?" I
questioned, glaring at him. "Yeah, test your skills and ability's" Ace nodded as if it was nothing. "What if I
fail?" I shrieked nervously. "You can't fail" Ace assured me as we entered a massive training ground. There
was people throwing knives, using arrows, sparring and shooting guns.
"Boss" they nodded and got back to whatever they were doing. My eyes widened. "We have good manners in
here" Ace fixed his tie. "Your tie is still crooked and is also tied wrong, is this how you always tie them?" I
giggled at him, staring at his chest where his tie rested. "Can you fix it?" Ace sighed at me, shaking his head.
"Yeah" I nodded as I undid his tie. I rewrapped and tightened it. "Now you're good to go" I said as I ran my
hand down his tie until his stomach.
I saw multiple girls giving me dirty looks from across the room. I just shrugged them off. They're just girls
who want the boss but don't have a chance and never did.
Ace handed me a gun and told me to shoot at the targets. I missed most of them which I knew would happen. I
saw the girls snickering in the corner, laughing at my brutal attempt. I clenched my jaw and grabbed the
knives without Ace even telling me; don't let me down now. Ace's guards went to take them off me but he let
me continue. I swung the blade around my finger as I stared at the target. I threw the blade directly in the
centre of the wooden board. I shrugged unhappily; I knew what I was going to do.
My aiming and throwing was precise, I had been doing this since I was 15 after all. I stared at one of the
girls and flung the blade in her direction, missing her by an inch. She gasped while staring at the knife that
was an inch away from her head. Each one of the girls had their mouths open and shocked expressions.
"Dramatic bitches" I grumbled frustratedly as I inspected the edges of the blades. "Ok, that's enough of
knives" Ace grabbed the last blade off me. I glared at him challengingly. "She's apart of the Mafia, you can't
kill people who are in our Mafia" Ace sighed disappointingly while shaking his head.
"She was being bitchy" I rolled my eyes at him. "No you were being insecure" he frowned his eyebrows
frustratedly at me. He was partially right but she still deserved a knife thrown at her, just to spook her. I
wasn't going to hit her obviously even though it was very tempting. I couldn't help but notice the slight pride
in his eyes.
Ace is different when he's in here. It's like he's more stressed out and he probably is. All eyes are on him
constantly because being the Mafia King comes with constant attention.
"Boss, could I have the honor of sparring with you?" a guy approached Ace nervously. Ace stared him up and
down before replying. "I have to show Sofia around but I guess I could to show her how we spar first" Ace
shrugged walking towards the ring. Ace glanced over the guys shoulder to his training coach I'm assuming.
P 24-2
The coach gave a nod to warn Ace that the kid was good. The kid looked about 15-16 and was definitely fast
from what his warm ups show.
I happened to notice Dante from across the room. He was just sitting on a stool, drinking water and staring at
the ground with his hands wrapped from previously sparring.

P 24-3
"Hey Dante" I smiled happily as I sat next to him but I just got a grim glance in return. I had forgotten about
what had happened to him the other day. "I'm sorry" I uttered finally breaking the minute of silence between
us. Dante finally looked up. "I'm sorry, it's my fault, not yours" Dante sighed rubbing his forehead stressfully.
"I'm just angry that you got out of it and she couldn't" Dante glanced at me, I could see the pain in his eyes.
"I almost didn't" I showed him my bandage on my neck from where Ace had put the knife. "I knew he
wouldn't do it" Dante rolled his eyes sadly. "Why?" I said surprised almost. "You thought he was?" Dante
uttered shocked. "I thought I was going to die. He didn't have a reason not to kill me" I shrugged confused.
Dante snickered slightly. "You're both as blind as eachother" Dante rolled his eyes while smiling.
"Dude, can you wrap my hands for me" Ace jogged over still in his suit. "Sorry man, I don't know how to
wrap hands, I got coach to do mine" Dante admitted kind of embarrassed.
"I'll do it" I shrugged. "You know how to wrap hands?" Ace seemed shocked. "Yeah, my brothers used to
make me wrap their hands before sparring, although I never sparred or did any serious training myself, it was
forbidden" I rambled as I grabbed the white boxing wraps.
I slowly wrapped his hands before Ice walked in.
Ace's whole mood immediately changed from relaxed to furious in seconds after seeing Ice. "I'm sorry, it
wasn't my place to step in, I just didn't want you going soft on me" Ice apologised to Ace immediately. He
actually looked like he meant it. "You're forgiven but if you ever do anything like that again, you will be
killed, do you understand?" Ace's tone got deeper with his last few words. "Yes" Ice nodded obediently. He
turned around and walked back out without even defending himself.
"He's lucky that he's like a brother to me" Ace rolled his eyes, fed up with Ice. "Why is he called Ice?" I
asked curiously trying to finish off wrapping his hands. "Why do you think? He has no emotions and no
compassion, his hearts as cold as ice" Ace scoffed while saying it, thinking it was cheesy. He obviously
didn't believe it from his reaction. "He's loved three girls already, they all broke his stone cold heart, he's not
cold, he's soft" Ace snarled clenching his fist whilst I stared down at the clenched hand that I was trying to
wrap.
I ran my fingers along Ace's knuckles, immediately catching Ace's attention. Ace's hand opened slightly but I
opened the rest savouring our touch. Ace's breathing suddenly became a little bit heavier than before. "Be
careful" I was almost pleading with him. He stared down at my lips. "Careful, got it" he uttered back softly.
We stared at eachother for a moment as my hand held his. I really didn't want him to do this but I couldn't tell
him to stop.
Ace's body guard didn't seem fazed so why should I be?. Who am I kidding? I'm going to always worry about
him.
"Give me your jacket" I mumbled as he turned around, sliding his tux jacket off. He took his tie and shirt off
to give him more movement and flow. I'll never get over how perfectly sculpted his body is.
I felt my heart pound as he stepped into the ring, in just boxing shorts and shoes, his hands wrapped after
getting changed.

P 25-1
"I wouldn't worry" Dante admitted to me while having the most unimpressed look on his face. "Why?" I
played with hands nervously. "He's the Mafia King for a reason, you'll see" Dante left me hanging while
walking over to the shooting section.
Ace had forgot his mouth guard. I pulled it out of the case while Ace came back to me. He opened his mouth
and I slipped it into his mouth. He adjusted it before looking at me. He saw my hands and grabbed them.
"Don't worry about me" Ace struggled to say with his mouth guard in. My heart pounded as he held my hands.
I didn't want to watch him get hurt, this was really rough sparring, they treated each other as if they were the
enemy. It's effective but also dangerous.
Ace slipped away further into the ring. A few people from the Mafia gathered round to watch, including the
bitches from earlier. "Go Ace!" She cheered. If this bitch doesn't shut up, I'll throw another knife at her and
not miss this time.
The kid Ace was fighting against looked really hyper. The kid swung and Ace dodged. This repeated for
awhile. Ace kept lightly hitting the kid, making him angry. The kid was getting very frustrated and his swings
became a lot more aggressive. I started to worry when Ace barely escaped a hard right hook.
I wasn't able to watch this anymore. I hopped down from the side of the ring, walking out into the hallway
and strolled down the vacant corridors. I went into an empty room which seemed to be a resting area for the
trainers.
I played with my hands while sitting on the ground of the room. A couple of minutes had passed and I was
curious about how Ace was doing. I hesitantly decided to go back in. I watched from a distance as Ace
finally swung at the kid, knocking him out. I let out a breath of relief. I didn't see much of the match but I
could see that Ace was confused while looking around the room.
I slowly walked back up to the ring. I saw blood dripping from his mouth and he still had his mouth guard in.
"Here Ace" the girl handed him water. "Thanks" Ace smiled at her as he took the water bottle. She shrieked
walking over to her friends with a big grin on her face. Ace gave me an unimpressed look as he clenched his
jaw and walking away from me.
Is he angry at me?
"Ace" I shouted. "Ace" I said again as I grabbed his wrist to stop him from walking away. "What?" he
snapped, taking his mouth guard out. "Why are you angry at me?" I asked him with a confused expression on
my face. He rolled his eyes annoyed before attempting to storm off once again. "Ace" I hissed at him. "You
didn't even stay for a minute!" Ace snarled at me. "It's not my fault I didn't want to watch you get hurt" I
snapped at him.
"Sofia, I'm angry ok" Ace was shaking from the adrenaline. "Why, I didn't do anything?" I said frustratedly.
"Just leave me alone" Ace muttered to me trying to walk away. I refused to stop following him just because
he was angry. "Go away!" Ace roared causing me to stumble back a few steps as he took a couple forward; I
had my arm stretched out to keep distance between us.
Flashbacks of my father screaming had come flooding back.

P 25-2
I was afraid of Ace. Not intimidated, not shy, not nervous but only afraid. I'm convinced that if Ice handed
him a knife, he would kill me right now.
I quickly regained my steps before walking out. I was shaking but not from Ace yelling at me, rather from the
reminder of my father. I felt like he was in front of me instead of Ace.
Ice grabbed my arm while I was walking down the hall. "You saw him. The devil?" Ice smiled at my pale
face. "He's not the devil and stop saying that, it's weird" I mumbled as I ripped my arm from his grip and
continued walking. I entered the same empty room that I was in while Ace was fighting. I leaned against the
wall. I didn't feel like crying or doing anything; I just wanted to go home, wherever that was.
I asked a member of the Mafia who walking by if I could borrow their phone. I called Ace's bodyguard Terry
because it was the first contact on this girls phone surprisingly.
Are you guys enjoying the book so far?

P 25-3
Terry dropped me back to Ace's house.
I locked my door and sat in my room watching movies for the rest of the day. It had turned 12 am and Ace
still wasn't home; He was probably still mad. I'm not angry at him, I don't think I ever was. I think I was
shocked and afraid of him for a moment.
My eyes were struggling to stay open as I watched the movie. I was woken up by a knock on my door before
I paused the film and sat in my bed.
"Sofia" Ace muttered sounding like he was almost scared to say my name. I didn't reply. "Can you open the
door?" He asked, his tone was softer than usual. I slowly wandered over to the door. I assume he was able to
tell I had come over due to my light footsteps approaching the door. "Are you still angry?" I questioned him,
probably sounding tired. "No" he mumbled quietly.
I knew that his explosive anger was due to his grief and adrenaline but it wasn't acceptable. I unlocked the
door before quickly walking back over to my bed.
Ace entered the room and all you could hear was the creaking of the door since the entire house was silent.
Ace came into my room and shut the door behind him.
"Hey" Ace practically whispered, more than likely because of how quiet it was. "Hi" I mumbled standing
next to my bed. I only realized now that I was wearing his hoodie. "I'm sorry" he ran his hand through his hair
stressfully, taking a seat on my bed. "It's fine" I grumbled restless.
Ace looked at me confused. "Are you okay?" He asked worriedly, glancing at my pillow to look for signs of
tears. "Yeah" I nodded. He stared at me for a moment before breaking the silence; "I thought you were going
to give me a lecture on how badly I treated you back there" he rubbed the back of his neck . "No, I've already
accepted that I can't teach you how to be a good man, you'll have to do that on your own" I stated with a
stubborn tone. "I was.....emotional, I guess you could put it" Ace admitted, opening up slightly. "It's okay as
long as it doesn't happen again and I'm sorry for not supporting you" I glanced at him.
"I got you an apology gift" he stared at me with his innocent eyes. "I had been planning this for a few days
now so it's not just because we fought" Ace admitted before taking a rectangular box out of his pocket.
"Remember you said you didn't trust me around me other women" Ace mumbled softly. I nodded confused at
what was happening. "Here" he handed me a box while also pulling out another box from his pocket. Inside,
there was a bracelet that had a heart in the centre of it, connecting one side of the bracelet, to the other side.
The heart had a little key hole in the centre of it.
Ace took the bracelet out and clicked it together on my wrist. "The only way to unlock it, is with this key" he
explained, holding my wrist gently.
He grinned at my flushed face. He opened the box and pulled out a chain that was exactly like the bracelet,
just in chain form. "Wow" I gasped taking the chain out of his hand. I put the chain around his neck and
clipped it together. "So I'm assuming you keep the key?" I grinned happily at the bracelet.
"Yep" he nodded. I could tell that he was happy that I like it.

P 26-1
"Not the Ace Hernandez settling for a woman" he said cheekily. I rolled my eyes in defeat with a small smile
on my face. I watched a grin spread across his face.
"Do you want to watch something?" I asked him as I lay on my bed. "Yeah" he climbed onto the bed. He
groaned as he let whole body relax. "You should get out of your suit" I suggested. "It probably would be
comfier, ok give me a second" he jumped off the bed. He came back in, wearing shorts and a baggy shirt.
I realized that for the first time in years, I was happy, lying beside Ace. Someone I knew who would protect
me from anything, including himself.
The truth was that he made me happy and that terrified me.
Ace was staring at the TV but I couldn't watch the movie. He suddenly turned to me and began deciphering
the movie piece by piece.
We talked throughout the movie, not even paying attention to it anymore.
"So who's the worst person you have slept with?" I asked him curiously as I rested my chin on my hand for
support while smiling at him. "Mm I don't know" Ace shrugged as he tried not to smirk. "How many girls
have you slept with?" I raised an eyebrow at him with a smirk. "I don't know that answer either" he couldn't
contain his smile. "Give me a rough estimate" I questioned him, not being too forceful. His smirk only grew
at my question. He mumbled something but made sure I didn't hear.
"You did that on purpose" I smirked while playfully shoving him. "Ok ok" he replied, sticking his arms up for
defence. "Over 100 different girls" he finally spat out. My jaw instantly dropped at his words. "100" my eyes
widened. "And you weren't in love with any of them?" I stared at him confused. "None" he made a face as if
he didn't care. "No wonder why you've never been hugged" I rolled my eyes at him with a smile.
"Shut up, at least I'm not a virgin" Ace mumbled teasingly with a slight smile. "Leave me alone" I sneered
while glaring at him. "I'm just saying, what are you, 17?" He mumbled while licking his lips. "Yeah, almost
18" I grumbled, folding my arms like a child. "I was 13 when I lost mine" he muttered to me. "13! That's so
young" I gasped at him. He chuckled lightly. "I know" he shook his head as his smile faded.
"I couldn't risk it, my father probably would've killed me, I couldn't prove him right" my happiness fading
slowly from my face as I remembered all the names my father would call me. "I guess that's not your fault
then" he gave me a vulnerable glance.
"So tell me, why so young?" I questioned, wanting to know more about him. "My father believed that loosing
your virginity made you become a 'man' in some sort of fucked up sense, so as soon as I was old enough, he
threw me in a room and that was that" he spoke cautiously, careful not to reveal too much.
"That must've been awful" I shook my head at the thoughts. "No I loved it" he chuckled at the memory; "but i
wish I had saved for someone I really cared about" his blue eyes stared intensely at me as he finished his
sentence.
"Well it's not that big of deal, only takes seconds to loose right?" I replied, trying to make him feel better.
"No, it's a big deal but I didn't know that at the time. I still don't" I could see he regretted saying the last part.
"It's something you read about only in book you know, the connection, the bond.... until it's not" he spoke
P 26-2
honestly as he stared the blankets on the bed, probably lost in thought.
"You're right" I agreed, watching his subtle actions.
"I like you the most you know, out of all the people I've met" I declared suddenly. He couldn't help but smile
at my words. "Yeah" he replied, his eyes lighting up.

P 26-3
ACE'S POV:
She had fallen asleep quite quickly after our conversation, I don't blame her. She was only waiting to sleep
until I walked in.
She snored slightly causing me laugh quietly. It's the little things about her that I like, the simple things; the
colour of her hair or the way her eyes glow when she happy. She's beautiful to watch and I could do it all day
if I had the option without seeming creepy.
She began to stir, obviously having a nightmare. "Sofia" I whispered, trying to wake her. "Stop it" she hushed
me before grabbing my arm and forcing it around her. I snickered as I tried to stay quiet; she was strong when
she wanted something.
Part of me thought I'd never find myself in girls bed being so happy just holding her. I knew she was slowly
creeping her way into my heart but I couldn't stop it. I just hope I don't ruin her like the way I ruin everything
else.
"I may be the person you like the most but you're the only person I like" I muttered softly into her ear, planting
a kiss on her forehead before i fell asleep.
——————————
I had woken up before Sofia and grabbed my journal from my room before climbing back in the bed beside
her.
"She looks so peaceful. I told her she was only the person I liked last night. She was asleep but I still told
her, baby steps after all . She told me I was the person she liked the most. I couldn't imagine being
anyone's favourite person but apparently I'm hers and she's mine".
"What are you writing" she grumbled tiredly, snuggling up to me. "Nothing....." I let a sigh escape my lips.
"What time is it?" She asked blinking slowly. "8am" I stared at the clock. "Oh" she mumbled emotionless.
Her breath hitched like she wanted to tell me something but she didn't say anything.
"Thanks for not being an asshole Ace" she finally mumbled. "I am an asshole" I muttered confusedly. "Not to
me, but why me?" she almost whispered. "Why what?" I answered confused again, she wasn't making sense
plus I had no idea what she going to ask. "Why did you want to marry me of all people?" she replied with a
sad look on her face.
I had to think about this. Why was it her?. She is stunning but it wasn't her looks. "I saw the way your father
treated you" I finally spoke up. She instantly looked up at me with her big brown eyes. "How?" She spoke
with a soft tone as she played with my hand. "I could see it in your eyes, your fear of him, even though you
tried to hide it" I mumbled slowly to her. "You were so happy, your eyes were full of excitement and wonder
until you looked in his direction. Each time your smile would fade and suddenly your happiness was gone. I
saw you begging to get away from him and I guess I caved since I knew what it's like" I spoke softly with
hushed tone. "Not to mention you looked good in that dress but we'll save that for another time" I grinned
cheekily.
She didn't reply but I did see a small smile plastered on her face after my last sentence.

P 27-1
"He was killing me slowly and draining me mentally" she uttered with her eyes closed while she lay on my
chest. "Was it only you?" I asked hesitant to upset her. "Yeah, most of the time; the odd one out" she shut her
eyes, trying not to remember the painful memories.
"He won't ever get to lay another finger on you or any man for that fact as long as I'm around" I stated
protectively. Sofia sat up, breaking our contact. I instantly felt the need to keep her by my side, I longed for
her touch. I've been so afraid to kiss her because I know when I do, another woman will never be able to take
her place.
"So in other words, you're all I need?" She mumbled sarcastically with a smile. "Exactly" I pulled her back
onto the bed. I flipped us so I was on top as Sofia let a laugh slip, making me smile. I ran my finger along her
stomach as I shut my eyes, taking in the feeling of our touch. I placed my hand on her hip and she looked up at
me with her innocent eyes, shining with desire.
"No" I glared at her. "Why not?" She pouted. "I don't deserve all of you" I admitted, running my finger along
her bottom lip. "Not yet atleast" I stroked her cheek. She looked slightly disappointed as she leaned into my
hand, it's nice to know she wants me though. "Ok" she nodded. "For now, we can do this" I kissed her neck
roughly while holding onto her waist. A moan escaped her lips. She blushed slightly as my hand moved up
her t-shirt. That's when I realized she didn't have a bra on.
"We probably shouldn't" I stared at her with lustful eyes. "But we should" she smirked while waiting for me
to continue. "I feel like you're kinkier than me" I questioned her with a glare. A evil grin appeared on her
face. "It's always the innocent ones" I raised my eyebrows whilst shaking my head. "What turns you on?" I
asked curiously, hovering over her body. "Stuff" she blushed with a smile. "Tell me!" I snarled leaning
closer to her, almost demanding. "Dominance" she let out. Which I was being right now; which I was
constantly. I hummed satisfactorily.
"What else?" I frowned my eyebrows curiously. "Lip biting, neck kissing, you running your hand along the
inside of my thigh, biting my ear" she listed off. Damn, she can be turned on pretty easily. It takes me awhile
usually but with Sofia just the thought of her being- I couldn't even think about it without getting horny.
We messed around for a bit before I had to go to deal with some bullshit with the Mafia.

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Sofia's POV:
Ace had to go to work, leaving me horny and alone.
It was so boring since Ace took my phone when I was first living there and still hasn't given it back. I went
through most of day walking around and talking to a few of Ace's bodyguards. Especially Terry, I liked
Terry, he was cool.
Suddenly there was a knock on the door. I peeked my head around the corner, no one usually knocks, they all
just stroll in as if they own the place. I peeked my head out of the window to see Cara, Scarlett and Riley
standing at the door.
I don't like these girls but I can't just speak to Ace all the time; I'd go crazy.
I opened it; Hopefully Ace won't be angry. "Come on girl, we're going clubbing" Scarlett cheered while
dancing, making me laugh. "Tonight?" I questioned. "Yeah" Cara nodded persistently. "I don't knowww" I
sighed, knowing Ace wouldn't let me go.
"Call Ace, tell him you're going and that you'll be back by 12 am, no big deal" Riley shrugged like it was no
big deal. "He's um- he's protective" I struggled to make up an excuse on the spot. "Call him" Scarlett whined
practically dragging me to the phone. "But-". I didn't want to go in all honesty, I wasn't a very sociable
person at times mainly because most people are assholes and all guys want is a quick fuck; Especially at
night clubs.
"I don't have a dress" I mumbled trying to think of excuses. "I brought you one" Cara pulled a small dress out
of her bag. "I don't have my hair done" I shrugged. "Scarletts a professional hair stylist" Riley chirped from
behind Cara. "I don't have my makeup done" I grumbled, knowing I would have to go now. "You don't need
makeup" Scarlett scowled at me. "Go call him" Cara ushered me into the kitchen.
"Where's your phone?" Cara asked, looking around. "I don't know, I lost it ages ago" I lied. One of Ace's
bodyguards took it off me before we got into the house when I first came here; Ace's orders of course.
"Oh-well use this" Cara handed me the house phone. I could feel a pit growing in my stomach as I dialled
Ace's number.
"Hello?" Ace's voice sent shivers down my spine, in a good way. My breath hitched and before I could even
say anything, Ace began to talk. "Sofia, what's wrong?" His tone sounded frustrated. "You don't sound happy,
I'll call back some other time?" I questioned. "It doesn't matter, go ahead" Ace grumbled into the phone. "Um
the girls want me to go to a night club with them tonight" I muttered quickly, waiting for Ace to say no so that
I could go back to waiting for something else to happen during the day.
"Go ahead; one rule, bring a security guard" Ace's voice became angry before hanging up the phone. There
were odd noises in the background; He sounded busy enough without me disturbing him . I sighed reluctantly,
hanging up the phone. Now I have to go because I just know the girls were listening to that.
"He said yes" Riley grabbed my arm while cheering. I shook my head as I stared at the phone.
Ace's POV:
"Tell me where the fucking money is" I snarled viscously at the guy sitting in the chair, roughly grabbing his
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shirt that was stained and worn out.
"I don't know" he muttered with the little energy he had left from my relentless beatings. I impatiently
watched the blood drip out of his mouth.
"You've heard the whispers" I scowled evilly, whispering into his ear trying to frighten him; he should be
frightened if he isn't already. My patience was wearing thin with him. His face became flooded with fear as
he realised what I meant. "No please" he started to sob uncontrollably. I scoffed at his weakness.
"What are the whispers, what do people say?" I questioned sadistically, waiting for a response. I like to be
update on what is going around about me. "They.... they s-say you like to play with fire" the guy whimpered.
"P-please" he begged for mercy but mercy does not exist in my mafia; or most Mafia's for that matter. I do not
forgive and I do not forget when someone crosses me, forgetting makes you a fool.
"Ok" I stared around the dark room that never got any source of light. "You're pissing me off, begin talking
now" I demanded frustrated. "I wasn't close with Haze, I keep telling you" The man begged me to believe
him.
I rolled up my sleeve as I let out a fed up sigh. My fist collided with the guys face for a third time, that one
hurting my hand. He winced in pain repeatedly, clinging to the chair. I stared at my knuckles in disgust that
had blood covering them. "Tell me what you fucking know, this is the last time I will ask" I demanded
blatantly. "I don't know anything!" he broke down into tears once again before I shut my eyes trying to control
my anger. "Get the blow torch" I commanded the recruit standing in the corner of the room, who instantly did
as I asked.
He handed me the blow torch. I turned it on and watched the blue flames light up the dim room while the man
watched in absolute fear. The guy yelled with fear as he tried to force himself out of the chair, only to be held
back by his own hands and legs being bound to the chair.
"This can be easy, don't make it hard on yourself" I grumbled trying time fix the blow torch to the right
temperature. The guy screamed in terror.
"Boss" someone interrupted me, forcing me to turn around. "There's someone calling you from your house"
One of my men got the courage to speak up. For fuck sake.
I eventually hung up the phone. It was Sofia asking if she could go out. I didn't care as long as no other guy
laid a hand on her. "Tell Terry to watch my girl" I informed one of my guys before getting back to business.
I hovered the blue flame from the blowtorch above his hand, slowly inching it closer. "It's in the farm house"
the guy finally cracked. "See, that wasn't so difficult" I smiled sarcastically before showing him the look of
fury in my eyes . "No fire?" The guy asked relieved as I dropped the blowtorch carelessly on the ground. "No
but that doesn't mean you get to live either" I mumbled, the man only realising what I said before snapping the
guys neck.
"Bit harsh boss" One of my men commented. "He was pissing me off, definitely doesn't get special treatment"
I replied back with a cold tone while rubbing the blood off of my knuckles with a cloth. "Look up locations
of farm houses in the area" I commanded walking out of the room.

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I saw Dante as he entered the room. "Aceee" Dante said happily. "Dante" I said with a serious tone. "You
seem to be in a bad mood so I'll tell you later" Dante commented patting my back while trying to get by me.
"What's wrong?" I grabbed his shoulder roughly, stopping him from walking away; Dante sighed hesitantly.
"It's your father" Dante shook his head. "What about him?" I scowled at Dante, not wanting to hear bad news.
"You're dad wants back in the Mafia" Dante replied covering himself, ready for me to break. "Fuck no" I
glared at him, shaking my head. "Everyone hates him after what he made them do" Dante agreed with me.
"Tell him no and if he comes back he's going to die a slow, painful death" I threatened my father through
Dante.
Then I got a call from Terry, I picked up my phone. "Boss, we have a problem" Terry sounded scared which
instantly made alarms go off in my head. "What is it?" I asked, my heart skipping a beat, knowing that he was
watching over Sofia. "The Scar Blood's leader is chatting Sofia up; He's getting her to dance with him, I
swear boss, I wouldn't of let her go in if I knew it was his club" Terry pleaded with me for help.
"FUCKKKKK" I threw my phone across the room in a fit of fury. I could feel my blood boiling as rage built
up in my chest.
I was more worried than angry. If they found out she was with me, they would kill her without hesitation not
to mention the place will be crawling with Scar bloods. I know that if I walk in there, there will be war but I
wasn't about leave her in there alone with him. He's not as bad as me but he's bad and wouldn't give a second
thought about killing her if it came down to it.
The idea of her dancing with someone else, just instantly made me jealous. His hands on her hips from
behind he . I couldn't think about it, I'm already angry enough as it is.

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Sofia's POV:
Cara, Scarlett and Riley had dragged me to some nightclub. I didn't want to go, I just wanted to wait for Ace
to get home and then go to sleep but no. Instead I had to drink, dance and probably end up looking stupid.
We showed our ID's and got in. "Guys I think this dress is a little too short, Ace is going to kill me" I
muttered worriedly to them. "Don't let Ace control what you wear Sofia! You have an amazing body, show it
off" Cara hyped me up.
"Oh my god, look at him" Riley shrieked at the girls. Their heads turned towards a table that had 4 guys
sitting around, smoking cigarettes. There's a no smoking sign in front of them on the wall?; Ignorant men.
"Let's get their attention" Scarlett giggled mischievously, pulling us onto the dance floor. "No guys , I'm
engaged to be married, I don't want any other man's attention" I reminded them. "Then just dance for yourself,
have funnn" Cara giggled, grabbing shots of vodka off of the waitress walking by us. This was going to be
disastrous.
She handed me one and I contemplated taking it. "Drink it" Riley demanded and weirdly enough I did. Atleast
it would make the night go by faster.
Me , Cara, Riley and Scarlett were all dancing to a very sexual song when we noticed the guys staring at us
like we were dessert. Fuck, I wish Ace was here.
We seen the guys coming our way. I was going to leave when I felt a hand grab my wrist, stopping me from
moving. "Hey" a relatively deep voice uttered to me. I turned around to see a guy who looked in his early
20's with a tight haircut and clean shaven face. He had blonde hair and pale skin. I also noticed his tattoos
stretching from his wrist to his neck to his other wrist.
It reminded me of Ace and how his sleeve stops near his shoulder where as this guy had both arms covered.
"Do you like my tattoos" he pulled up his sleeve, showing me more of the tattoos. "Yeah, they're cool" I
commented, not trying to come off as flirty.
"Do you wanna dance?" His thick Spanish accent asked. Before I could reply, he seemed to notice the
bracelet on my wrist. "You already have a boyfriend?" He questioned me, holding my wrist and staring at the
bracelet. "Yeah" I replied not actually knowing what me and Ace are. All I know is that if I said no then Ace
would hate me and I don't want that; Not to mention that this dude is creepy.
"Come on baby, spend the night with me, I'm sure I can change your mind" He placed his hand on my waist.
"No, I'm ok" I took his hand off of my waist, trying to hide the disgust plastered on my face. That's a hand
Ace will cut off now I thought. "You must be very loyal to your man to deny me, that only makes you more
attractive" he flirted with me, slowly getting closer. "Very loyal" I slowly backed up with a frightened
expression.
I could see he was getting frustrated. "I'm a millionaire, I own this club and many more" he tried to persuade
me. "I can't be persuaded, I'm not a cheat" I was still backing up amongst the people in the club. "I'm also a
Mafia leader" he winked at me. I froze. You've got to be fucking kidding me, why me?.
"What's the name then, I'm sure I would've heard you on the news if that's true?" I acted like I didn't believe
him. "We're called the Scar Bloods" he smirked proudly. "Wow, that sounds scary" I teased. "4th biggest
P 29-1
Mafia in the world" he uttered as I could smell the alcohol off his breath which sent shivers down my spine.
Ace had the biggest Mafia and a bigger dick, just putting it out there.
I've heard of the Scar Bloods. They're not as cruel as they make themselves out to be but they have some
weird torture methods. I knew instantly that the Scar Bloods hated Ace's Mafia. Simply because Ace has the
biggest and largest Mafia to exist.
"What is your name even?" I questioned him, glaring at him suspiciously. "You still don't believe me?" he
chuckled. Little did he know I was in the Mafia myself.
"No, I didn't know Mafia's were still around if I'm being honest" I shrugged. I could sense danger off of him.
He wasn't a man to be messed with. "My name is Santiago but it's Santi for short" he introduced himself. "I'm
Lexi" I smiled politely, giving him a fake name. I didn't need this creep to know my real name.
"So who's this man then?" He asked. "Ah , you wouldn't know him" I shrugged, brushing it off making him
more interested. "Tell me" Santi almost demanded. "His name is.....Alejandro" I hesitated. "Why did you
hesitate?" He asked suspiciously. "Wouldn't you hesitate if a Mafia leader who wants to have sex with you
wanted to know your boyfriends name?" I spoke with a cheeky but joking tone, trying to hide my fear.
I had only now realised that there's no way out of this for me. He won't let me go unless it's with him and Ace
thinks I'm doing ok. God, what if I never see Ace again?. What if I never get to see his glorious abs again?.
My eyes will never be blessed with such beauty again. I'm joking if you can't tell but I was actually scared.
If he finds out that Ace is my boyfriend, he'll use me as leverage over him. Not that Ace would give up his
Mafia for me. Santiago looked at my face that obviously showed I was thinking about something. "What's
wrong baby?" Santiago asked, pulling me close by my waist and whispering in my ear. "Nothing" I was taken
back by his sudden 'touchiness'.
"Sofia got one of them" A drunk Riley stumbled over to us with a impressed tone. "No-no I didn't" I
panicked, responding quickly. "Baby, if your man tries to hurt you, I will hurt him for you" Santiago slurred
as he kissed my hand. I almost gagged but I refrained. I saw the mark of his Mafia, burned into the side of his
neck. Burning it onto your skin was a bit extreme.

P 29-2
Cara approached us, joining the conversation.
"Sofia hates attention" Cara murmured while downing shots of vodka. "Cara relax on the drinks" Riley
scolded as she snatched it away from her. "Get them away" Santi snapped his fingers, signalling his goons to
take my friends to one of the other tables. "Sofia, Ace is going to be madddddd" Riley yelled crazily at me. I
instantly felt my heart stop at the mention of Ace's name; The most notorious man in the Mafia.
"Who's Ace?" Santiago's face became angry, his eyebrows frowning and his jaw clenched. "Oh Ace is my
brother" I said the first lie that came to my head.
"Ace......" he waited for a response. "Hernandez" Scarlett shouted as she winked at me, thinking she was
doing me a favour. How did she even know his second name?. I must've told her at the sleepover and forgot.
Well, there goes my life; not like it was a good one anyway.
I watched as Santiago eventually realised who Scarlett was talking about. His facial expression grew quickly
to rage as he scowled at me. "Ace Hernandez!" He shouted at me but since the music was so loud, only me
and him could really hear eachother. "She's joking, she's only saying that because she knows you're in the
Mafia" I tried to play it off. He grabbed my wrist suddenly, setting off a red flag in my head that probably
should've gone off ages ago. "Let go of me!" I hissed at him, trying to force him to release his grip. "Ace
doesn't have a sister" Santiago snapped at me. Oh shit.
"Well then, looks like I'm a mystery" I winked at Santiago. "Come spend the night with me and I'll let you go,
no strings attached" Santiago proposed yet again, his anger dialling down as he thought I would sleep with
him. "No" I shook my head stubbornly. "We're putting up a million fee for you then" Santiago went from
furious to violent in the matter of seconds. He grabbed my arm and forced me through the back door of the
nightclub.
He was dragging me down a dark damp vacant street when a car pulled up.
Santiago slipped out his gun that was in his jacket, pointing it at the person who just got out. It was Ace and
he was aiming for his head. I immediately stood infront of the gun, knowing it would kill me. "Don't shoot" I
hissed at Santiago. "It's a 1 million fee Ace" Santiago yelled at him. Ace had his gun pointing at Santiago.
"You really got yourself into that much debt, how'd you smoke all those drugs?" Ace teased still holding his
gun up, acting like he wasn't afraid. "Here, there's the million" Ace showed him the big stack of money in his
free hand. Santiago looked surprised that he handed it over that easily.
"Hand her over and you get the cash, I'm not giving you anymore money" Ace shrugged unbothered. I could
see Santiago contemplating. "Deal" Santiago shoved me viscously, causing me to fall since I was wearing
heals and the ground was uneven. I lay on the road, only realising my head hit the concrete after seeing the
blood on it. I looked up at Ace who seemed furious at Santiago's actions.
Santiago went to grab the money but Ace shot him, right in the head, purely out of anger. I stared at Santiago's
body that dropped lifelessly to the ground in less than a second. "Fucking Scar Bloods, such a stupid Mafia
name" Ace scoffed frustratedly before picking up his money and walking over to me. He grabbed my hand,
helping me up off of the floor. "You ok" he mumbled, looking at my cheek and head before grabbing my face
gently. "With you I am apparently" I smiled, leaning into his touch. He gave me a slight smile back. "Come on
love birds" Dante yelled from inside the car.
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"Why did you stand in-front of the gun" Ace muttered as he stopped me. "I don't know..." I muttered, only
now realising what I did. "You could've died" Ace snarled at me angrily, waiting for a response. "I guess I'm
willing to die for you" I replied honestly, catching him off guard and then just walking past him to the car.

Ace's POV:
"I guess I'm willing to die for you" she muttered. I froze. I had never been told that before; If anything I was
always told I was broken toy, a piece in a game of chess. I could easily be replaced therefore no one would
have to give up there life for me.
It made me feel something. I don't know what it was but it was different. I stood still until Dante's yelling
broke me out of my trance. She made me feel wanted not needed. It's different when you're needed, they're
using you for their benefits but when they want you, they're willing to spend their time with you and don't
want you to get hurt. And now I'm afraid to loose her too.
We finally reached my mansion. The car ride was silent, mainly because of everything that just happened.
We got in and Sofia went straight to her room. I went to my office.
I was filling out paperwork when I was interrupted by a knock on my door. People just can't seem to leave
me alone. "What?" I hissed at the door. Dante opened it before closing it suspiciously behind him. I could tell
he was fucking wasted from here. The reeking smell of alcohol filled the room.
"What's wrong?" I huffed while signing my name on a contract. "Nothing, what's wrong with you?" he
mumbled aggressively with an annoyed tone. "Who do you think you're fucking speaking to like that?" I stood
up with a demanding tone. "Obviously not the same man from a few months ago" Dante shook his head
disappointedly at me. I stayed silent, not understanding what he meant. "She's changing you and I don't like it"
he finally admitted, throwing his hands in the air.
"Why does everyone have some sort of problem with her?" I yelled at him frustratedly. "All she is kind, to
you, to me, to everyone. She cares about everything so don't stand there and tell me you don't like who I'm
becoming, mainly if it's because I'm not as cruel, or selfish or as ignorant because she is making me a better
person".
"You're making horrible decisions because of her" Dante shouted back at me. Dante was my right hand man.
If he wasn't, he would've been shot on the spot moments ago. But I couldn't deny that I was irrational when it
comes to Sofia because I am.
"You're going to cause war with the Scar bloods over a girl, you're the fucking Ace Hernandez, leader of the
Reapers, start acting like it" Dante shoved me. I sharply turned my stare to him. I grabbed his arm roughly.
"You want to see cruel Dante?" I hissed at him. I grabbed his arm and forced it into my knee, snapping his
elbow. I earned a scream from Dante as he dropped to the floor. "You want to see me ignorant Dante?!" I
shouted as I held him up by his shirt collard before kicking him on the ground. Dante groaned, coughing
uncontrollably from my kick. "You want ruthless, I'll give you ruthless" I snarled furiously.
I kicked him again. "Please, I'm sorry" Dante pleaded with me. I clenched my jaw as cracked my knuckles.
"Fuck you" I spat at him. "Get out of my sight" I ordered instantly. walking back to my chair . "I take it back,
she's only made you worse" Dante muttered while limping out of the room.
I was still furious. I stood up and walked over to the wall, smashing my fist straight through it, attempting to
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relieve my anger.
Maybe it's best if I keep my distance from her.
Sofia's POV :
Ace had been treating me coldly ever since the incident . I drew a rose sitting at my desk , letting time pass
me by .
"Ace told me you could have this" Terry came in . It was my phone! . "Oh my god" I shrieked with happiness
, swiping the phone out of Terry's hands and jumping on my bed. I seen that Ace had already put his contact
in .
I tried to talk to him over the past couple days and he just shrugged and walked away which was very rude
may I add .
I started watching YouTube and thought about what I wanted to be . I couldn't sit around all day in Ace's
mansion . I've always wanted to be a doctor or nurse . It just seemed so interesting to me . I loved the idea of
saving kids especially. But I knew that if I wanted to go to collage , I'd have to finish school . I'm an honour
student so getting the marks wouldn't be a problem , but I'll probably have to switch schools . There's only 5
months left of school anyways.
I'll ask Ace and see what he says .

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"Aceeeee" I asked in a high pitched tone, signalling to him that I wanted something.
"What" he hissed at me from behind his office door. He's been so angry lately. "Fine then" I muttered walking
away; I'll just do it since he doesn't seem to care anymore.
I know he's a mafia boss but can he try and be nice for once, like would it kill him?.
I took out my laptop that Ace had gotten me when I first moved in, well forced me to move in. I signed up for
a private school and I may have used Ace's bank card but it's ok. He'll find out eventually. I chose a school
that specifically had ties to a medical school or collage.
Hopefully it will be a drama free year.
I sat on my phone waiting patiently for an email back.
I finally heard the ding after an hour. I almost had a heart attack, not gonna lie. I threw myself out of the bed
and opened the email.
I was accepted, how the fuck was I accepted? I've missed like a million days but I guess my grades made up
for it. It did say in the email that I actually had to attended or my place would be given away. I responded
back with a thank you and they told me that my first day started on Monday which was in 2 days and that I
had to wear a uniform.
I was excited. I'm finally going to do something with my life instead of sitting around in Ace's mansion all
day.
I listened to movies and watched a few shows before going downstairs to eat. I ordered some pizza and
washed some of the dishes while waiting. "Hey" I heard someone say. I turned around to see Dante. "Hey" I
smiled at him before turning back to do the dishes.
"So , hows your day been?" He asked. "To be honest, pretty good" I smiled happily. I was lying, no matter
how hard I tried, I couldn't brush off the fact Ace was angry with me. Is it because I went to the club? Or is it
because of what I said before getting into the car?. I'm so confused.
In the midst of my confusion, I dropped a plate into the sink causing it to smash.
"Ok, step away from the broken plate" Dante joked, pushing me away with his body since his arm was broke.
I shook my head while sighing.
The doorbell rang. I strolled out of the kitchen, leaving Dante to attempt to clean the plate. "Hey Dante, do
you want some?" I offered, strolling back into the kitchen. "Fuck yes" he cheered running into the living
room.
He turned on the tv as I carried in the pizza. "You should probably get Ace" Dante sighed hesitantly. I threw
him an unimpressed look . "That's a no then, I'll take it that you two are arguing again?" Dante asked
nervously which was kind of suspicious to me . "Not really" I sighed defeated. "But I guess I'll get him" I
stood up, walked up the stairs and down the hallway of bedrooms.
I didn't know if Ace was in his bedroom or office. I checked his office and he wasn't there so I walked over
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to his room.
"You used my card?" I heard him ask. How did he even know I was here?. "Yeah" I admitted, walking into
his room. "To go to a new school" he sounded angry but he always sounds angry. "If you don't like it, well
then that's too bad isn't it?" I pouted at him. He spoke while looking out his window with his back to me.
"You're such a child" he growled at me. "What's your problem" I hissed back at him. He turned to me. "Why
are you being like this?" I pleaded for an answer. "This is me" he rolled his eyes. "No, no it's not" I shook my
head. "I'm bad" he chuckled evilly. He was starting to worry me now. Was it actually an act?. "I just want
your virginity but you wouldn't give it up so easily so I had to pretend to care" he snickered, lighting a
cigarette. He looked me dead in the eye. "I don't feel anything for you, I never have, I've been sleeping with
girls behind your back for awhile now" he chuckled again lightly.
"I'm done with pretending" he grumbled.
"Ok" I shrugged. His words were like a knife to my heart but I couldn't let him have the satisfaction of hurting
me; I couldn't show him I was upset. "I'm packing my shit and I'm leaving" I broke the silence. "You read my
mind" he grinned happily. My heart ached as I turned around and walked to my room.
I had nowhere else to go. I grabbed my bags and started shoving clothes into them. He followed me into my
room, probably to make sure I was packing. It's basically winter and it's freezing outside. I knew I had only
one place to go. I bit my lip to try and stop my eyes from watering.
I grabbed his key from out of my drawer. I stared at him. I approached him and he was trying to figure out
what I was going to do. I raised the key to his chain but then decided to just pull it off. He should feel a
fraction of the pain I'm feeling. He stared at me, blankly. I grabbed the bag and threw it over my shoulder,
storming out of the room.
Don't look back; don't.
I jogged passed Dante . "Where are you going?" Dante asked frantically. "Anywhere but here" I responded
angrily not even bothering to turn around. I opened the door and saw snow on the ground but I kept walking.
Before I had gone too far I turned around to Ace. "I was wrong, you are a bad person but that makes you
happy right?" I stared at him. I shouldn't have stooped to his level but I had to hurt him somehow. Ace
watched as I walked down to the gate and left, turning out of his vision.
I was so angry that all I could do was walk. I didn't have a coat on and it was snowing heavily; Of course he
decides to tell me in the middle of winter. I walked down the road, I didn't trust the girls enough to let me
stay at their house and that's when I realised there was no one else.
——————————
I walked like a zombie for hours until it was light out and I had reached my home. This is what it has come
to?. Nobody wanted me, I was useless.
I wandered up to the door. My fingers turning blue from the cold. I knocked on the door but as soon as I did, I
immediately regretted this decision. The beatings I would have to endure because of- Raul. He saw me and

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his eyes widened with shock; I don't think they ever expected to see me again. "You're home" he hugged me
but I didn't move. I couldn't feel most of my body. "Is father here?" I asked him as I shivered. "Yeah" Raul
shook his head disappointingly. "But he's so sick he's stuck in bed" He said with a positive tone.
"Sofia" I heard a weak voice yell. "Fuck sake" Raul scoffed as he rolled his eyes, bringing me in. I slugged
my way upstairs. "Yes father?" I mumbled as I walked into his bedroom. "Why are you back, I disowned
you?" he yelled at me before coughing hysterically. "I have no where to go father, please" I begged him. "Get
on your knees and beg" he smiled evilly.
I thought about it; I didn't even have any pride or dignity left to loose anyways. I knelt next to him and begged
him to take me back. "Now pray for my safe recovery" he smirked, knowing I hated this. "I pray for your safe
recovery" I forced a slight smile for my own sake.
"Throw her in the basement, disgusting filth, not even her own fiancé wanted her" He hissed viciously at me.
"Calm down" my mother relaxed him, spoon feeding him soup.
I couldn't believe Ace didn't feel anything for me at all. It felt real; The things I felt for him were real. I can't
take them back, I wish I could. I still had school on Monday so atleast I had something to look forward to.

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I lifted my head off of the cold concrete ground, at least today I get to go to school.
Raul opened the basement door for me. "He shouldn't be punishing her like that" Stefano snapped at Raul. "I
can't do anything about it" Raul responded challenging him. "How about you just leave the door unlocked so
that she can go up to her room and sneak back down in the morning, you dumb piece of shit" Stefano shoved
Raul, trying to force him to move out of his way.
"I can't!" Raul growled. "It's ok Stefano" I rubbed my eyes, slowly rising from the floor. "You're not allowed
food, father's warning" Raul informed me with an uncomfortable expression on his face. "This is fucking
bullshit" Stefano snarled at his brother. "She's our sister!". Raul rolled his eyes, not wanting to listen to
Stefano's rant anymore.
"Here" Stefano handed me a sandwich. "If father asks, blame it on me" Stefano assured me. "Thanks Stefano"
I kissed his cheek before leaving for school.
It was a long walk, gruelling walk especially considering I got about 2 minutes of sleep total on that
basement floor.
But I reached the school on time for my first class. Everyone seemed familiar with eachother and the
classrooms were huge; They were more like a collage layout then a high school layout.
I wandered into the class that was full of students talking and chatting before the class. "What the fuck, why is
this place so huge" I whispered looking around. I sat up at the back of the class while wondering if this was
actually my class.
"Hey" someone said, grabbing my attention. I lifted my head up from my books and turned to him. "I haven't
seen you in this class before?" He asked politely. I was slightly taken back by how attractive he was; Wait I
have Ace, I can't think that. "Oh yeah, I'm new" I smiled while rubbing the back of my neck awkwardly.
"I'm Roman" he smiled politely at me. "I'm Sofia" I grinned happily. "So why are you here?" Roman asked,
trying to keep the conversation going. "I want to become a doctor or nurse" I responded wishfully. "What
about you?" I questioned him curiously. "The exact same" he grinned slightly. "Do you know where your
classes are?" He uttered to me. "Not really" I shrugged. "I'll show you around after class" He offered. "That
would be amazing" I beamed at him.
He had black hair and blue eyes. I could tell he was fit too from his muscles that flexed through his shirt. He
was a lot different than Ace. He had no tattoos and didn't seem to be the type to rebel. Why am I comparing
him to Ace!. I really need to stop.
"What age are you?" He asked curiously. "I'm 17, you?" I responded but also questioning him back. "I'm 19"
he replied almost happily. He's older than Ace too, definitely doesn't look it.
The teacher walked in. "Good morning" the teacher announced, only for the whole class to groan. "I know, I
know, another day of boring school but after this, you will all be doing your dream jobs somewhere else" he
grinned hopefully as he glanced around the room at all of the students. "He's only smiling because of the
thoughts of us being gone" Roman rolled his eyes but had a smirk on his face.
I watched Roman sketch some stuff down on a sheet of paper as the teacher spoke loudly, making sure that
P 32-1
everyone could hear him.
I reached for my notepad and my- don't tell me I forgot a pen. I facepalmed mentally at myself before rolling
my eyes. "Here" he handed me a blue pen. "How did you-thanks" I smiled at him, not worrying about it too
much as I probably seemed really stressed out. "I saw you rummaging through your bag so I assumed you
didn't have one" he shrugged.
This class was actually very interesting. I didn't know that if you actually enjoy a class that you learn stuff. I
thought that was things people made up but apparently not.
But I soon became disinterested when I realised we had the same teacher for every class and didn't even
switch classes!.
"Fuckkkk" I heard Roman groan only to look over and see his head on the desk and his face looking hopeless.
Roman flicked me over a note that said go to the bathroom. I gave him a scowl before walking out of the
class. You didn't have ask the teacher to go the bathroom which was a bit strange.
About 5 minutes had passed of me waiting outside of the bathrooms. I saw Roman turn the corner.
"Finallllly" he grinned. "That class was slowly killing me" I replied with a grumble. "Atleast someone
shares my pain, all the girls love that class because they think that Mr.Evans is hot" He rolled his eyes,
letting a smile slip. "Ew" I gave a disgusted face. "Why did you want to meet here?" I asked curiously.
"Because I didn't want to stay in the class any longer" he shrugged with a mischievous look; he really thought
ditching was bad?. "So you wanted my company?" I raised my eyebrows at him.
"Yeah, I guess that's how you could put it" Roman said with a smirk, making me think he wanted a lot more
than just to be friends and to be honest, I think I wanted more off of him too.
"Do you wanna leave?" He asked with an eyebrow raised. "Ahhh fuck it" I shrugged walking out with him.
"It's only my first day of school and I'm ditching already" I shook my head.

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Ace's POV:
I majorly regretted what I had done.
Fuck. I sat at my desk, combing my hands through my hair. She had just left! I let her leave!. Fuck; I fucked up
big time.
It's dangerous when I start catching feelings. Truth be told that I've never felt anything for anyone except her;
That's probably why everyone was so worried. We didn't even kiss and this girl had me wrapped around her
finger. I would've killed anyone and anything for her.
Maybe this was for the best, I made her act on impulse and acting on impulse is never good but she made me
happiest I've been in awhile. So what did I do? I fucking pushed her away.
I needed to stop thinking about her, about what I could've done to make her stay; I could've just told the truth.
"What was that?" Dante asked, storming into my office. "You said it yourself, you don't like her, she's too
good for me". "I don't like her, I'm in love with her okay? I didn't really love Kylie and I didn't know this
until I met Sofia and watched her from afar. I was jealous of you; you had her all to yourself, she wouldn't
even take a second glance at anyone when you were in the room" he uttered ashamed.
I could've killed him right then. I swear to god, saying he loves my gir- Sofia. I lied to her a lot, I told her I
slept with multiple different girls when really I didn't. I let her take my chain even though it felt like she may
have taken my actual heart. I told her I didn't feel anything for her and yet I felt it all.
"It doesn't matter" I mumbled causing Dante's jaw to drop slightly. "She's gone, I can get back to work, leave
me be" I rolled my eyes, giving up on my desire to be with her. I decided knowing that she was out there,
away from me, is more important than my selfish desire to need her; I'd probably destroy her eventually
anyway. Dante left the room quietly, leaving me to be alone with my thoughts.
I never speak my thoughts and I'll never speak of this.
————————
A few days had passed.
I started calling my strippers again. My father keeps trying to contact me but I'm still refusing to talk to him. I
shut my eyes as i leaned against my hand for support, my elbow resting on the table. I was exhausted from
constantly training. Every muscle in body ached for sleep but I wasn't giving in easily.
"Ace, you should sleep, you look miserable" Dante grumbled as he walked in. "Ok that's it" Dante shoved my
elbow off of the table, causing my head to smack off of the desk. I was so tired that my neck couldn't support
my head. Dante helped me upstairs. "Tomorrow we're going to get Sofia" Dante announced to me as I lay in
bed. "No" I went to sit up but grumbled in pain instead.
"Ice and I because believe or it not, he doesn't like seeing you like this" Dante threw his arms up in the air
like he was having a tantrum. "She's not coming back and I don't want her to" I lied while I pulled the
blankets over me. I know I said I wasn't going to sleep but I was in bed so I may aswell.
"You're like one of those depressed people in movies when their girlfriend breaks up with them" Dante
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rolled his eyes at me. "Except you broke up with her" he had to add. "I wasn't even with her" I snapped at
him. "So why are you upset then?!" Dante shouted frustratedly, getting a shrug in response.
"I'm not upset" I instantly stood up, getting out of my bed. "Look, she's probably mad but all you need to do is
tell her the fucking truth, because I know for a fact you didn't sleep with any girls" He sighed.
A recruit came in. "Dante! She's off the radar" his panicked expression almost seeping out of him but he kept
it together. "What do you mean by off the radar" Dante glared at the guy, waiting for a response. "She either
killed her tracker or someone killed her!". My heart stopped for what seemed like a year but was less than a
second. Fear began to overwhelm me as I thought of the hundreds of things that could've happened.
"I need to train" I stood up, my face pale from what I had just heard. "That's not a good- don't tell me what's a
fucking good idea Dante or I'll take that cast off your arm and fucking beat you with it" I snarled at him,
cutting him off. He blinked at me a few times before letting me pass.
I ended up leaving and going to the training base; She must've found her tracker. She can't be dead. There's no
way I'd let this happen.
—————————
Sofia's POV
"I might or might not have something to admit" he stared at me as we walked down the road together, away
from the school. "What's that?" I questioned him, not sure what he was going to say. "My name isn't Roman,
it's Haze" I heard him say. Haze?. "I'm the leader of the Vipers" he smirked proudly as he watched my calm
expression grow into fear.
"That's- you know who I am" I said with a breathy voice, trying to understand what he had just said moments
ago. "You don't seem to realise, you have real talent" he spoke confidently whilst talking about me. "So why
didn't Ace accept you onto his fighting squad, or was that just not an option?" He questioned with a cheeky
pout.
Ace had never mentioned putting me onto a squad, probably because he thought I was weak.
"I don't know" I muttered honestly to him, not wanting to lie. He obviously had a spy on the inside but I knew
the spy wasn't that close to Ace or else Haze would've known about me and Ace's 'fling'.
I had heard about the Vipers all through out my life. They have some of the best assassins to ever exist.
Haze smiled mischievously before saying "we want you to join us". "I don't.....know" I uttered worriedly and
unsure. I had a sinking feeling in my gut, just at the idea of it. "Here" Haze grabbed my arm sending shivers
up my spine. He took out a small pocket knife. I immediately squeezed my eyes shut. "Relax" he chuckled
cutting into my arm. I didn't even flinch at him piercing my skin with the little knife. He pushed a tiny metal
thing out of my arm and slammed his foot against it.
"What was that?" I gasped worriedly staring at the tiny little object that just came out of my arm. "It was your
tracker" Roman stared at the crushed up pieces on the ground. I stared at the cut, getting flashbacks of my
father and how he started using knives on me when he realised I was becoming immune (almost) from his
beatings.

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"Sofia" Haze grabbed my attention again. "It's not definite ok? You can stay for a few days and see if you like
being a fighter" Haze offered sounding like he was trying to persuade me into going with him.
I'm not going to lie, growing up in a family of boys has taught me how to punch really well. And I can take
hits aswell, mainly due to my father. Punches didn't really faze me anymore. Plus what I have got left. I don't
feel like going home to a family that doesn't want me.
"Ok" I said hesitantly, unsure if the decision I was making was right. I desperately wanted to have a purpose,
I wanted to be wanted. My father didn't want me and Ace just used me. Third times a charm, right?.

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Haze took me to a building, similar to Ace's. "Our mafia is called the Vipers, specifically because we're all
quiet, fast and sneaky. It's okay if you're not perfect at everything first time around, you'll get there
eventually" he explained positively as he showed me around. He showed me the room where they spar
boxing, throw knives, shoot and they also did pain tolerance tests.
"I'm not much good at fighting" I admitted shyly as we walked around. "That's fine, you'll probably exceed at
everything else" he smiled at me, making me feel better about this whole situation. I was basically thrown out
from one Mafia into another within two days.
"Is that why Ace wouldn't place you onto the fighting squad?" Haze raised his eyebrow at me. "Yeah, I think
so" I lied while staring at the floor.
"This is Nina, she'll be showing you to your room" Haze introduced me to a tall, black haired girl who
looked angry but was actually really nice so far. She looked eerily similar to Haze.
"Hey, I'm Nina as Haze said" she rolled her eyes at him, earning a smile from me. "Haze doesn't usually
recruit new people like this, maybe it's because you're really pretty" Nina raised her eyebrows at Haze.
"She's good at knives" Haze smirked confidently. "Oh so you're good at Haze's specialty" Nina smiled at me.
"Better" I winked at her. She let a giggle slip before seeing Haze's unimpressed look. "He knows it too" I
smiled at Haze jokingly.
He grinned and rolled his eyes before saying "I've never actually seen you throw, I'm just going off of
someone's word" Haze glared at me playfully. "I can't take anymore of this flirting" Nina strolled out of the
room. "You coming?" Nina asked me. "Yeah" I jogged after her leaving Haze behind as he watched me run
after her.
"We weren't flirting back there, just so you know. I wouldn't want to get his hopes up" I quickly said, hoping
not to give her the wrong idea. "That was flirting" Nina snickered. "Haze likes you though, I can tell by his
extra cocky attitude" she admitted to me as we walked down the hall of bedrooms. At least I'm assuming
they're bedrooms. "Is he not always cocky?" I asked confused. "I'm his twin sister, trust me" Nina rolled her
eyes at the thought of her twin brother but also had a slight smile which told me they got along.
I immediately erupted into laughter. "What is she?" she chuckled at me laughing . "I thought you two had a
thing" I leaned into her shoulder while laughing. She threw me a disgusted look before shaking her head. "Ew
that's so gross" she raised an eyebrow before shuddering after we finished laughing.
"Haze requested to have your room next to his, so enjoy" she uttered sarcastically with a wink before
opening my bedroom door. The room was nice, very bland but nice nonetheless.
I sat on the bed as the musty smell of the room overwhelmed me. I couldn't get Ace out of my head but I had
no choice; I just had to suck it up for as long as I could. It's a new chapter of my life and I don't need him in it
but the thought of him was making him was making me painfully horny. We didn't even get to fuck before I
left. I know for a fact he's amazing in bed just by what he could do with his fingers. Plus he's had practice, a
lot of practice.
I wonder if Haze is good in bed......
—————————
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"Alright new recruits, official training starts tonight, we'll find out what your specialty is but we'll start with
knife throwing which we need more people in if we want to become better than Ace's Mafia" Haze smiled
cheekily at me through the crowd of people.
Someone told Haze I was good at knife throwing which was true, I was really goo. It was probably my
favorite out of all of them.
"After this it's hand to hand combat, I want to see how much you know before training and then we will
progress from there" Haze announced before taking us over to the knife throwing area.
We all lined up, one by one, throwing knives at the people. We were doing it on the baby course and people
couldn't even get the knife to stick to the fucking board.
"If any of you guys can make this throw, I'll take you to the advanced course" Haze teased me, knowing I
wanted to go to the advanced course to check it out. Plus, I hated the baby course, it was too easy.
It was finally my turn. My brother's taught me a saying for throwing knives; one for the heart, one for the head
and one for wherever you wanted to hit.
I took grip of the knives.
I threw the first one, landing dead centre of the heart shape drawn on the wood. Haze nodded his head in
approval but I don't think he was impressed, it takes a lot to impress a Mafia leader with your skills. You
need to have what they're looking for, if you don't, well then that's unlucky. Next I flung the knife into the head
and then the last one into his throat. Haze smirked before wiping it off his face so I couldn't see it.
"Why did you choose the throat?" Haze smirked, questioning me even though he knew exactly why I did it.
"So that he can't scream for help.....and he bleeds out faster" I announced confidently infront of the group.
"Well she's Haze's favourite now" I heard someone scoff. Correction, I was already his favourite.
It's weird how quickly Haze changed. Everything about him shifted from his personality to his attractiveness.
Yes I did find him very appealing but unlike Ace, I'm not going to keep my distance, if I end up catching
feelings for him, I'll let him know.
"Now it's time for the hand to hand combat" Haze was almost warning us. "I'll put you up against eachother
and then up against one of my best trained people to see how you........ manage against them" as Haze put it.
I watched a few people fight. They were definitely better at fighting than knife throwing. I was going to have
to step up my game.
"Sofia vs Taylor" Haze announced scanning the crowd, looking for me. "Yeah" I slipped under the ropes and
into the ring. "Also here" Taylor, a girl with short blonde hair entered the ring. I can take her......hopefully.
"You're fighting eachother bare knuckle" Haze smirked evilly. "So enjoyyy".
I heard a bell ring. I got into my fighting stance and squared up to her, trying to be as intimidating as possible.
I didn't show an ounce of emotion. I couldn't give off any subtle hints that I was about to swing.
She stepped forward, throwing her fist towards my face; I managed to dodge it but barley. I heard gasps from
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the crowd of newbies. I rolled my eyes at Taylor who let the smallest smile slip.
She stepped forward again so that was my signal she was about to punch. I ducked under her flying arm and
forced my fist up into her jaw, uppercutting her. She stumbled back in a daze and confused. I let her gather
herself.
She held her jaw in shock at how powerful I was. She was probably expecting me to be weak since I'm
decently skinny. She swung at me, her fist colliding with my cheek.
The next thing I knew I was staring to the side, looking down at the floor with blood dripping from my mouth.
That's when I realised she has trained in boxing before.
Everyone was watching intensely as the tension grew bigger. She just pissed me off. I immediately stared at
her, catching her off guard. She thought it would've hurt, little did she know my father hits twice as hard.
I was light on my feet, I wasn't about to let her win. She looked more confident in herself, let's wash that off
her face. I forced her into a corner before hitting a brutal shot to her ribs. She winced in pain, almost falling
to the ground. I took that opportunity to knock her out.
I immediately threw my fist at her, my punch connecting with her cheek. She fell to the floor with a thud,
knocked unconscious.
I stared at the group who were in shock with their jaws open. I touched my lip with my fingers, only to see
blood covering them. "Am I bleeding badly?" I asked Haze who looked a bit pale. "Yeah, can you not feel
that?" He stared at me worriedly. "Nope" I shrugged wiping my lip with my own wrist.
"Come on, let's get you cleaned up, continue the rounds" Haze announced to one of his 'workers'. "Yes Boss"
the guy practically sprinted over to the bell at Haze's orders.

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I followed Haze to a bathroom.
"Tell me why you can't feel that" Haze glared at me, knowing I was hiding something. "I don't know.... it just
doesn't hurt" I tried to play it off and lie to him. I clenched my hands nervously. He grabbed them and I
swear, just for a second, Haze was Ace. I stepped back in fear, clearly showing my distress.
He stared at me confusedly. "Bad memory?" Haze questioned me while soaking a cloth in warm water.
"Yeah" i shook my head, trying to shake away my feelings for Ace along with it.
Haze grabbed my wrist and pulled me close to him. He stared at me straight in the eye, which was pretty
intense, not gonna lie. "You always look hurt" Haze admitted to me, noticing how every so often I'd be caught
off guard, thinking about Ace. "N-no" I stuttered and then immediately after wanting to face palm myself.
"Tell me what's on your mind" Haze asked with a soft and gentle tone. I sighed, giving up, he was going to
find out eventually. If I was going to be killed, it may aswell be now . "Me and Ace....." I sighed not wanting
to say it. "What, you were more than friends?"a small smile appearing on Haze's face whilst letting out a
slight chuckle. My lips made a O shape in shock. "I knew exactly why he didn't put you on his fighting squad,
I just didn't want you to think that I was using you" Haze admitted as he dabbed the cloth on my lip.
Our faces were slowly inching forward.
"Because you know....... i find you quite attractive" he grinned at me. "Oh really?" I giggled at him. "Yeah" he
nodded. "If you need someone to help you forget about Ace, I think you've found your man" he whispered in
my ear, sending shivers down my spine. He leaned in, kissing me slowly, savouring it almost.
Ace and I hadn't even kissed and I met this guy a few hours ago.
But weirdly I enjoyed the kiss. He pulled me closer to him, deepening the kiss. He licked my lip for entrance
and I gave it to him. We kissed for a good while before someone walked into the bathroom. I immediately
broke the kiss, turning away from Haze.
"Oh no" Nina chuckled lightly at us. I blushed as I rubbed the back of my neck awkwardly. "You interrupted
us" Haze glared at his twin angrily. "Well then maybe you should've locked the door" she replied back to him
cheekily.
But the kiss didn't feel....... right. It was good but it wasn't right, he wasn't the right person for me . It's like
the longer I'm away from Ace the more I miss him and it's eating away at me.
"I thought I did" Haze mumbled, annoyed at his sister. She smiled evilly at him; I liked her. She seems cool
for the most part.
"Um.....what's the next task" I asked, breaking the silence. "Rest" Haze warned me. "No, I'm fine" I shrugged,
showing him I was ok. "Awh, Haze wants to protect his girlfriend" Nina teased him. She got a giggle out of
me. Haze's face immediately lit up at my laugh. "Oh my godddd, you're like completely falling for her" Nina
shoved his shoulder playfully.
"Come on girl, before my brother eats you alive like the demon he is" she challenged her brother.
I stood between Haze and Nina, not sure who to go with. Nina held out her hand and I grabbed it. "Sorry
P 35-1
Haze, girl power" I winked at him while being dragged off by Nina.
—————————
"He's into you" Nina jumped onto her bed causing her to bounce straight back off and onto the floor. I
covered my gaping mouth with my hands as she blinked at me a couple of times. We both erupted into
laughter at the same time.
"Are you okay" I gasped for air, wiping the joyful tears from my eyes as I grabbed her hand, pulling her up
off of the floor. "Yeah I'm fine" she snickered, slowly climbing onto her bed this time.
"I wonder if he'll ask you to the winter dance?" Nina raised her eyebrows at me. "Winter dance?" I
questioned her curiously. Her jaw immediately dropped. "You've never went to the winter dance?" Nina
gasped shocked. "No?" I stared at her with a blank expression on my face. "The winter Mafia dance, you
know, only the biggest ball of the year" Nina gushed just thinking about it. "Who are you taking?" I asked her,
assuming she was going with someone by the way she talked about it.
"Ah it doesn't matter" she shrugged unbothered. "Yes it does" I sat on her bed with her sprawled across it.
"Telllll me" I begged with a persuasive tone, nudging her.
"I'm going with a guy called Ben" she grinned shyly. "You really like this guy" I giggled. "Yeah, I've liked
him for about a year and he asked me yesterday" she explained.
"Awh, that's sweet plus you're hot, I'm surprised you didn't have a million guys chasing after you" I scoffed at
her. "Stopppp, all the guy's heads will rise in your direction when you walk in" she rolled her eyes with a
smile. "Both heads" she winked making me laugh. "You're dirty minded, I like you already" I smirked high
fiving her.
"Are you excited for the next task?" Nina asked questioningly. "What is it?" I shrugged, not too worried about
it. "The pain scale" Nina shuddered at the thought. "What's that?" I asked with a worried expression.
"Basically we attach these little sticky pads to you that simulate the same pain as someone punching, kicking,
stabbing and shooting you" Nina explained as quick as she could. "I don't think Haze will let you do it".
"Why not" I frowned my eyebrows. "You're already hurt, you can only do it if you have no injuries". "I'm
doing it anyway" I muttered to her before lying next to her. "You're tired" I stared at her. "Yeah, it's been a
long day" she nodded.
I was curious to see how real this pain simulation felt.

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About an hour had passed and the group reassembled.
"This is the pain test or the pain simulation" Haze announced to everyone. "It simulates pain such as punches,
kicks, getting shot and stabbed etc." Haze rambled on.
"Up first, Sofia" Haze announced but then instantly stared at me confusedly. "No" he grabbed my wrist,
stopping me from going into the room and lying on the bed.
"Boss, it's a crucial part of the tests" the doctor who sat by the bed announced. Haze sighed before releasing
my wrist. "Don't grab me like that again" I glared at Haze who just blinked at me.
I lay on the bed/chair type thing with the doctor placed sticky pads on me. "Now you need to remember that
this is fake, you're not actually being stabbed or shot" the doctor reminded me as I nodded in response.
He started the simulations. At first I couldn't feel anything. I started to feel pain around 5 minutes in. Haze
watched anxiously as I just sat there but then suddenly the pain went from about a 2 out of 10 to about an 8.
I winced in pain and I noticed Haze scowl at the doctor. I had the buzzer in my hand to tell them to stop yet I
hadn't clicked it. I groaned in pain, clenching onto the side of the bed. Everyone was watching in shock.
"Ok that's enough!" Haze yelled at them, seeing me in pain before opening the door to the glass room. "She
has to stop it, not us" the doctor warned Haze who was close to killing him. He quickly stared back at me.
"Press the fucking button Sofia!" Haze demanded. I couldn't seem to let myself press the button, it was
extremely painful yet I didn't seem to care about it.
Maybe because physical pain was more bearable than my mental pain. I can't admit I'm in pain because that
would mean admitting I'm broken. Just as broken as Ace. I quickly came to the realisation that I was never
happy except for when I was with Ace.
So I would rather sit through the physical pain then endure my mental one. I'd rather spend every waking hour
in physical pain then be haunted by the thought that nobody wanted me. Nobody needed me so I didn't press
the button.
I let out a groan, scaring Haze. "Stop the fucking machine" Haze roared which was the last thing I remember.
————————
My eyes fluttered open, only to see that I was back in Ace's room. He sat next to me on the bed. "Ace" I
muttered. "Hey" he smiled, stroking my cheek. "I'm sorry" I whimpered, my eyes burning up with tears.
"It's okay, I'm the one who should be sorry for lying to you" he stared at me longingly.
"I miss you" a painful tear slid down my cheek. "Why ? I'm a horrible person" he stared at me confused
before he chuckled lightly , brushing my tear away with his thumb. "I miss you too, you were the only one
who understood me" he beamed. I swear he was glowing with happiness.
"Ace I think I'm broken" I whimpered to him as I played with my hands, my eyes still watery. "Babygirl,
I'm the definition of destruction, maybe it's best that we didn't stay together" he whispered hesitantly ,
not looking at me anymore. "You can't break what's already broken" I muttered. He turned his head,
looking like he was in shock. "I shouldn't of let you go , you made me happy, you made feel free" He

P 36-1
shook his head, his voice close to breaking . "We're prisoners of the Mafia" another tear ran down my
cheek, taking my happiness with it.
"We're prisoners of our fathers" He looked up at me with hurt in his eyes. "Maybe in another life?" He
smiled slightly.
"I wanted it to be this one" I sniffled. "When do we get what we want?" He laughed slightly before kissing
the tear off my cheek. "You should probably wake up" he sighed. "This is a dream" I widened my eyes at
him. "Yeahhhh" he smiled staring at the ground sitting at the edge of the bed, next to me.
"Ace , I think I was falling in love with you". His eyes widened in shock as his head turned to me.
He stared at me for a moment before leaning in and right before our lips touched, I shot up.
I sat up, my heart pounding. The room was dark. Haze was lying next to me in the bed. "Bad dream?" He
asked. I was silent for awhile. "Yeah.....something like that" I lay back down. "Where are we?" I asked him.
"In my room" he whispered gently, careful not to spook me.
"What happened?" I asked curiously, glancing around the room. "You didn't press the buzzer, so you passed
out from pain" he faced the ceiling, not staring at me. "They had you on the highest setting for normal people
and you couldn't feel it so they turned it up" he almost sounded angry at me . "You can be angry but I didn't
choose to be like this. I became numb" I uttered to him. "So you can be angry but I won't care".
I feel like I'm a different person now. I feel empty. "I'm not angry" he sighed defeated. "You just didn't
deserve that" he turned to me and stared at me with the most purest eyes. He was the complete opposite of
Ace and the complete opposite of what I wanted.
I knew I was about to make a bad decision but I didn't care anymore.
I turned to Haze. "You're still thinking about Ace?" Haze raised his eyebrows, asking with a soft tone. I
nodded slightly.
He leaned in slowly and so did I. We started to kiss, it slowly turning into a make out. Haze turned us over so
that he was on top of me. I kissed him slowly before tugging at his shirt, signalling him to take it off. He did. I
ran my hands along his abs. He practically pulled my shirt off, kissing my neck, probably guessing that it
turned me on, which it did.
"Is it ok if we continue?" He asked. "Is the Mafia man asking me for consent?" I gasped sarcastically. I
earned a smile off of him. "Yeah of course" I nodded before going back to kissing.
He slipped his sweatpants off, revealing his bulge which was pretty big, not going to lie. Especially for a
first timer.
I wasn't going to tell him that it was my first time. He seems like a decent guy so he wouldn't continue if I did
tell him.
He groaned as he grinded against me. I slipped off my leggings. "Fuck, you're beautiful" he stared at me. I
smiled at him.

P 36-2
He slid off his underwear before unhooking my bra with one of his hands. "I'm impressed" I giggled as he let
out a snicker.
"Are you sure about this?" He asked, holding the side of my underwear in one of his hands, ready to take it
off. I nodded.

P 36-3
It was the morning .
I had woken up in Haze's arms which was quite nice to be honest . I think I like Haze , as a person . He's a
good guy and he doesn't want to hurt me. I stood up and realised that Haze had ripped my underwear off . I
rolled my eyes with a smirk on my face before putting on a pair of his boxers .
I didn't really feel anything for Haze though . And I felt bad because he was a really nice guy . So was his
sister .
"You look good in my underwear" he groaned whilst stretching . "Thanks" I climbed back in beside him . "I
know it's a bit sudden , and maybe very fast but do you wanna be my girlfriend?" He asked running his hand
down the side of my body . Oh shit . I nodded . I seen a smile appear on his face .
"How do I have the prettiest girl in the world lying in my bed" he gushed . "Shut up" I giggled , shoving his
shoulder playfully before he pulled me in , pecking my lips .
"I promise that whoever hurt you , will never hurt you again" Haze ran his hand through my hair . I don't
know why but that made me feel something. I kissed him .
"You better know that I'm broken" I warned him , giving him a serious look. "Aren't we all" he gave me a
slight smile.
"Hey Haze , I got the- oh fuckkkk" Nina shrieked covering her eyes , as Haze covered me .
"Fucking lock the door" she shouted at us . "Fucking knock" Me and Haze both shouted back at her at the
same time . "Are you covered" Nina peaked out seeing us lying in bed . "Yes" I sighed exhausted.
"God Haze seriously, one day" Nina growled at him . "She's my girlfriend, I can do what I want with her" he
glared at her . "Girlfriend?" Nina shrieked happily . "Hafie is happening!!!" Nina cheered jumping up and
down . "Hafie" I stared confusedly at Haze . "My sister has a problem with shipping people" Haze rolled his
eyes in annoyance.
"Damn , a day and you two are dating and doing the dirty" Nina giggled . I blushed and hid in Haze's chest
pulling the blankets up cover my face . I heard Haze and Nina laugh at my shyness . "It's ok , sex is natural"
Nina tried to make it better . "Ok ok , go away , you're making her uncomfortable" Haze demanded . "You're
already picking her over me" Nina gasped , throwing her hand on her heart .
"Go!" Haze demanded at his sister who finally left . Haze burst into laughter as soon as she left . "It's not
funny" I scowled at him . "It's very funny" he smiled at me still hiding in his chest .
He flipped us so that he was ontop again . "No" I warned him . "Why not?" He raised an eyebrow with a
smirk knowing exactly why. "You know why" I glared at him with a smile , shoving him lightly .
"No I have no clue , he ran his fingers down my stomach and stopped right at where my clit started . "Do I
really have to say it" I scowled at him . He nodded . "It hurts plus the next tests start in 5 minutes" I uttered
quickly, holding my breath . He chuckled lightly . "Ok , we won't have sex again for awhile but I'm still
horny" he grinned signalling he was up something. "No Haze dont! We'll be late together" I shrieked trying to
shut my legs but he kept them open .

P 37-1
"I'm the leader , I say wether someone is late or not , and I say , we leave when we're ready" he glanced at
me .
He licked his lips before kissing my stomach down to where his fingers were , his body slowly moving down
the bed . He took his boxers off of me .I would stop him but it felt so good. He kissed my heat , sending
shivers up my spine . He immediately licked me , a pool of warmth releasing from in between my legs. He
smirked as he kept teasing . He rubbed me gently with his thumb knowing that I was still hurting from last
night.
"Haze" I moaned throwing my head back in pleasure .
"Have you forgotten about Ace yet?" He asked . I knew saying no would annoy him and I wanted to see what
he could do . I shook my head no . I seen his eyebrow raise . He rubbed his two fingers against my clit before
asking the same question and getting the same response. He shoved his fingers in me , making me moan again
. "Moan my name" he demanded huskily, his dominance appearing out of thin air . I shook my head no . He
stuck in a third finger .
"Haze" I moaned , not wanting another finger . He smirked before burying his head between my thighs . I felt
my legs start to shake as Haze swirled his tongue in circles . "Haze!" I moaned , more warmth coming out of
me . "Don't you dare" he growled , warning me not to come . I bit my lip , trying to contain my orgasm.
"Haze please let me" I whimpered , not sure how much longer I could hold out . "No" he warned me . "Haze
I'm going to- don't or else you'll be punished" he scowled at me now using his tongue and fingers . But I
couldn't resist when he licked my g spot , sending me over the edge .
I moaned , releasing my orgasm . Haze gave me an unimpressed look . He kept going , licking me clean and
then his fingers . "I warned you" he growled climbed ontop of me . Honestly I think I wanted him to fuck me
again . It felt so good .
He was pounding into me . I clawed at him back , making him groan . "Fuck Sofia" he moaned at me digging
my nails into his back . My legs started to shake again . I moaned softly in his ear making him go crazy . His
hand found mine , our fingers intertwining . He held my hand as we finished . I came before he did.
He moaned quietly in my ear as he released inside of me . I was on birth control so it was ok . His cum
leaked out of me slowly as we lay on the bed, catching our breaths . "I should go to the toilet" I stood up ,
walking into the bathroom .
I could tell he came in me , deep . I made sure I had taken my birth control pill last night. I sat on the toilet for
awhile . I eventually climbed back inside the bed with him .
"Do you wanna leave now?" He asked . "Yeah" I nodded , standing up . He slapped my ass , really hard .
"Owwww" I whimpered as he chuckled at me . "Come here I'll kiss it better" he smirked evilly . "You wanna
kiss my ass" I smiled cheekily , slipping on my underwear. "I've kissed a lot more than just your ass" he
grinned playfully causing me to blush .
"You're so cute when you blush" he put on a pair of shorts .
——————
P 37-2
"Ok your next test is shooting , easy enough" Haze shrugged like he was the best in the world at everything. I
mean , he's pretty good at sex soooo.
A girl raised her hand to ask a question . We're not 4 anymore , blonde bimbo. "You seem to be amazing at
it" she may aswell have sucked his dick while she was at it . I think Haze seen me glance at her unimpressed.
"Did I say you could talk!" Haze spat angrily at her. She immediately coward into the crowd . "Anyone who
does that again , will have their tongue chopped off, you speak when I ask you to speak" Haze threatened
them . He better not be threatening me .
"Start the fucking rounds" Haze yelled handing everyone a gun . "We all get one?" I asked him . "Yeah" he
nodded. "Why aren't you chopping her tongue off?" The blonde bimbo questioned him, cheekily . Haze turned
around and grabbed her by the throat . "What did I just say" Haze lifted her into the air by just his hand glued
to her neck .
"Ok Haze , put her down" I placed my hand on his shoulder . He dropped her instantly . "Calm down" I
smirked whilst rolling my eyes at him . "I hate people like her" Haze grumbled annoyed and anxious for the
day .
"What's wrong , you seem tense?" I asked as I stood next to him . "I'm tense because everyone's expecting
new amazing recruits and the only person who's made the list is you" Haze shook his head disappointedly .
Me ? . I've already made it . Perks of being his girlfriend.
"Cause I'm your girlfriend?" I grinned at him . "No , because you're good at everything you do" he pulled me
into him.

P 37-3
"I'm actually shit at shooting" I whispered to him with a smirk . "Don't worry , let your awesome boyfriend
show you how it's done" he glanced at me with a cheeky smile on his face before he threw me over his
shoulder , making me shriek . "Haze" I put on my serious tone .
He walked over to the shooting range , everyone was staring at him carrying me . There's Nina , this is going
to be awkward.
"I didn't know you guys were going public now" Nina winked at me . I squirmed on Haze's shoulder . He put
me down finally . I playfully slapped his shoulder while shooting him a scowl . He turned to me before
chasing me around the hall . I laughed as I swerved around groups trying not to hit them .
Haze caught my wrist and pulled me into him . I was panting from running and he was staring at me . "I think
your stamina needs work" he teased grabbing my chin with his hand , making me look at him . "Can you carry
me" I pouted at him . "You want me to carry you even though a few minutes ago you hated being carried" he
questioned me , confused . "Yeah" I giggled . "Ok" he scooped me into his arms . My head rested against his
shoulder as he carried me to the shooting range .
Everyone was shooting and hitting their targets , but I was completely missing mine . I scoffed annoyed at
myself and my lack of aim .
"Here" Haze stood behind me . "You're shooting with one hand and aiming too low" he explained while he
took my free hand and placed it on the gun . His head was next to mine as he showed me how to use the gun .
I glanced at him every so often while he was explaining . I have to say , he looked extremely attractive when
he knew what he was talking about .
"Are you even paying attention" he asked . "Not really" I shrugged with an innocent face. "Don't stare at me
so innocently, it makes me want to wipe the look off your face" Haze whispered into my ear , making sure
only I heard it. I think I should be feeling something when he says things like that to me.
The rest of the day went pretty well . I lay in bed next to Haze . He was asleep already . I got out of bed and
walked out to the balcony .
I took in the fresh air. The stars lit up the dark sky along with the moon . I used to think that people became
stars when they died . I always wanted to be a star.
I missed him . Today was easier but that doesn't change the fact that I still miss him. But he doesn't want me
anymore. Maybe he never did to begin with .
I knew I could possibly fall in love with Haze if I tried . But you shouldn't have to try and fall in love . It
should be easy and effortless.
Last night had made me realise how broken I really was. I don't know how much longer I could keep the
pieces together.
"Hey baby" Haze walked over like a zombie , half asleep . "Hey" I wiped away my tear , making sure he
didn't see it . He hugged me from behind . I leaned into him . My head lay on his shoulder . He kissed my
cheek.

P 38-1
"Can't sleep?" He muttered softly , holding me tight. "Yeah" I sighed .
"Nobody needs me Haze" I sighed defeatedly , feeling hopeless . "That's not true , I need you" Haze placed
his big hands on my hips , turning me around to face him . I didn't look at him . He lifted my chin up with his
thumb , making me look at him . "I need you" Haze reassured me .
I nodded as he embraced me in his arms . He was shirtless with only shorts on . "We better go inside before
we get sick" Haze warned me . "A few more minutes" I mumbled , falling asleep in his arms . He was so
warm .
————————————
"You really need to stop dreaming of me" Ace raised his eyebrow at me from the balcony.
"You're the one invading my dreams" I challenged him sassily . "You obviously can't seem to forget about
me" he teased while playing with a little blue ball that came out of nowhere .
"Apparently not" I sighed angrily . "Why are you angry?" He murmured while bouncing the ball off of the
floor . "I have a good guy lying next to me, who likes me , but I don't like him as much as I should because
of you" I hissed at Ace who listened to my complaint . "That's your fault for loving all this sexiness" he
winked playfully at me .
"But you laying in bed next to my enemy won't make me very happy . Especially after I find out you gave
him your virginity even though you didn't love him" Ace complained back . "And you gave it away after
me warning you to give it to someone you loved" he ramble d on .
"Wait...... that night , you told me you only wanted me for my virginity but I had already asked you to take
it and you said no ?. That makes no sense" I thought out loud . Ace sat on the floor , throwing the ball
agaisnt the wall .
"I already told you this" He rolled his eyes . "What do you mean" I wondered , waiting impatiently for his
response . "I said I was lying and you completely brushed it off" Ace shrugged not paying attention to the
ball that hit off his face , making me giggle .
"Ouch" he rubbed his nose . "You're my imagination, this is made up by my head , you did sleep with
other girls and if you didn't well then that's even worse" I admitted. "What!, how is that worse!" Ace
shook his head , snapping a little . "Because then you wanted me gone , you wanted me to leave , which
means you didn't want me anymore" I folded my arms stubbornly . "You brought this on yourself" I
scowled at him . "Yet you're the one dreaming of me" He turned to me with his eyebrows raised . He has a
point.

P 38-2
Ace's POV
I was swinging at a punching bag . No one was around . This is how I decided to release my anger when I
was younger . Having the weight of the world on your shoulders is exhausting, mentally and physically.
Plus I never sleep .
I sat on the floor , taking a sip from my water bottle . "She's not dead" Dante strutted in . He didn't look happy
. "What?" I questioned , confused and annoyed. "Sofia , she's not dead , if anything she's very much alive"
Dante handed me some pictures.
She was standing on a balcony and she looked upset . But then ....... in the second one , Haze had his arms
around her and she was leaning into him . "How...." I was speechless . And in the last one , she was asleep in
his arms . She was happy .
God , I wished desperately that I was the one who had his arms around her . I shook my head , tired and
exhausted. I don't think I have the energy to react .
I just threw the pictures aside . "You're not going to go get her!" Dante's eyes widened in shock and possibly
anger . "No" I muttered , taking another sip out of my water bottle . "He's going to kill her!" Dante grabbed
his hair frustratedly. "No he won't , I can already tell by the picture that he's in love with her" I responded
emotionless .
"Ace , look , she doesn't look happy" he pointed to the first picture. "She's never happy" I yelled at him ,
wanting to end this conversation. "No , she had the same look on her face when she sat on the couch next to
me , she misses you" Dante begged me to believe him but I just couldn't .
"I'm tired , I'm going to do some work and then I'm going to bed" I strolled out of the hall and away from
Dante .
She could be missing me ? .
—————————

Sofia's POV:
It was the day of the dance . Haze had asked me a few days ago to come with him . I agreed , hesitant but I
agreed nonetheless.
I had my make up , hair and nails done . The only thing left was to get into the dress .

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Nina walked in .
Her jaw dropped as she stared at me in the dress . "Woah" she gasped. "Do I look bad" I asked her while
staring in the mirror . "Are you kidding me , you look gorgeous" she smiled reassuringly. "You look really
good" I complimented her black dress .

P 39-1
"Haze is going to go crazy when he sees you" she giggled excitedly. "We're leaving now , do you need
anything else" She wondered waiting for a response . "No , I'm good" I walked out with her .
"Hazeeee" Nina shrieked , causing him to turn around and look at us. I seen his jaw drop as his eyes
followed me down the steps . "You look like an angel" he uttered . I froze . I always referred to Ace as being
the devil .
"Thanks" I smiled softly , hooking my arm in with his . He planted a kiss on my lips before we left .
I was extremely nervous. I had this gut feeling like something bad was gonna happen . I could feel it .
Me and Haze were becoming closer as time went by . It had been about
I was so lost in my thoughts that I didn't even realise that we were already here . "You ready" Haze mumbled
to me . I nodded slightly . "We can wait a few minutes if you're nervous" he reassured me . "I'm okay" I
nodded at him .
Truth be told that I wasn't . Not a single day of my miserable life.I never have been happy but I've longed for
it for years. A happiness that's permanent. But everyday now , it seems to get easier . Each breath is
becoming more effortless and the nightmares are starting to fade . It's been two weeks since I left Ace . And
I've stopped thinking about him constantly which I'm proud of . Haze is a good guy , he makes sure I have
everything I need for school and just in general.
"Ok , let's go" Haze took my hand , helping me out of the limousine. We strolled into the hall where the ball
was held , slowly . Nina and her boyfriend Ben were flirting behind us .
"That's so gross" Haze rolled his eyes as I let out a giggle at his disgusted face. "Leave her alone , she's
happy" I smiled . Haze stared at me with awe . "What?" I covered my face from him just staring at me .
"You're beautiful" He uttered .
He earned a genuine smile from me . "Stop" I couldn't help but smile at him . He made me happy . I seen a
smile spread across his face .
"Names and Mafia?" The guy at the door asked . "Haze Fury , The Vipers" Haze responded , suddenly
becoming very serious and standing tall and strong . He was kind of intimidating to be honest .
"Nina Fury , Vipers" Nina repeated after Haze . "Sofia Diaz , Vipers" I uttered seeing a slight smile on
Haze's face .
We walked into the massive hall full of people . "These are all the leaders of the Mafia's , and maybe their
less powerful , definitely worse looking , brother and sister like Nina" Haze teased her , getting a smack
from her .
"Haze Fury and Sofia Diaz , leader of the Vipers" the guy announced as we walked in , startling me. I had my
arm hooked with Haze's .
And then I seen him . Standing by the stairs , just staring at me . I immediately froze as soon as we locked eye
contact. I couldn't describe the expression on his face . He looked hurt but not surprised.

P 39-2
"Haze , can we go dance" I asked him quickly , wanting to get out of sight . "Yeah sure" he walked me over
to the dance floor .
Immediately, me and Ace's song started to play when I got to the dance floor. Haze placed his hand on my hip
, before grabbing my other hand and extending our arms out into the cliche dance stance .
"You seem a bit shaken" Haze fessed up . "No , I'm fine" I shrugged giving him a smile . "Ok" he sighed ,
continuing the dance . "You know , I never knew I'd like someone as much as I like you" he admitted to me.
"Why?" I questioned him . "No one ever really .... caught my eye" he tried to put it nicely . "And then I seen a
picture of you and god , you were like an angel sent down for me" Haze rambled on . "But I have to let you
go now" he joked , twirling me around only for another random man to catch me .
I was confused with what just happened . "Relax , I won't bite" the guy teased . "Why did we change!"I asked
the random dude . "It's apart of the dance" he explained . He tried to make conversation with me but I kept
shutting him down .
Play the song at the top if you want
"Change time" he warned me before spinning me around .
Someone grabbed my hand , catching me . Before I even saw his face , I immediately knew who it was . No
one's touch compares . No one else's touch makes my heart skip a beat. No one else's touch made me want
them so bad except for one. Ace .
He caught me in his arms . Our bodies pressed together . I was taken aback . "Fuck" I mumbled , shaking my
head . "That's a bit mean" he uttered teasingly, raising his eyebrows at me. "No , I'm not doing this" I growled
at him . "Someones feisty" he said playfully. "Fuck you" I glared at him , calming down. "Fuck you too" he
muttered back to me.
"I was doing fine without you" I rolled my eyes at him , trying not to get emotional. I realised that I wasn't
really over what happened that night . "Yeah , I can see that . Haze Fury , my most fearsome competitor" Ace
raised his eyebrows at me , probably thinking that it wasn't a coincidence . "He was actually Roman when I
met him but whatever" I shrugged . Ace just shot me a confused look.
"Do you love him?" Ace suddenly asked , catching me off guard . I wanted to hurt him so bad . I really
wanted to . But my heart wouldn't allow it . "No" I sighed defeatedly. My heart ached for him . I longed to
feel his touch against my skin , to have his lips against mine , to be cradled in his arms ........ my stupid heart .
The universe seemed to love pulling me and Ace together .
"The universe hates us" I stated to him softly . "Why?" He questioned , twirling me around . "Because we're
bad for eachother Ace , and Haze makes me happy but you're not fully content with me so I don't know what
to do but the universe forces us together" I hissed angrily at him .
"I lied" Ace sighed . It's like a weight was instantly lifted off his shoulders with two words. "What?" I
questioned him confused. "There was no other girls , I didn't want you for your virginity, I wanted you , all of
you , every bit . From your bad days to your good days , I wanted it all" Ace looked furious but sad. "Stop
Ace ... I have a boyfriend" I begged him .
P 39-3
"I wanted you , all of you . Every single bit . I loved your smile to your cheekiness and the way you were
never afraid of me" He rambled , just letting it all out . "Stop please!" I whimpered , my eyes becoming
watery .
"I miss you annoying me and cheering me up when I was in a bad mood . I miss being excited to come home
because I knew you would be there" Ace finally stopped .
"I thought you were too good for me so I destroyed it , set fire to it , because that's what I do Sofia , I break
things , you know that" the look of regret washed over Ace's face .
I couldn't talk . I just couldn't .
"You waited this long to tell me" I shook my head , letting it hang . "I'm sorry" Ace muttered , almost begging
me to forgive him . "It's not that simple" I looked back up at him . "Haze is my boyfriend Ace . He admitted
his feelings for me the second he knew . You led me on , you-"I was trying to retaliate.
"Tell me you don't feel the same" Ace interrupted me . I wanted to tell him I didn't . I wanted him to suffer
like I did . But ..... it didn't work . My mouth physically wouldn't say it .
"It wouldn't be possible for you to be with just one girl" I snarled at him . "It's more than possible , but that
one girl has to be you" he uttered to me , while I fell backwards purposely for the end of the dance, his arm
catching me , and our faces so close , yet so far .
The song ended and everyone clapped .
"If you're going to leave here tonight ... with him , I'll respect that . But you'd be lying to yourself because I
know you feel it too" he whispered into my ear quietly. "Does his touch feel like mine ? Does he care for you
the way I did ? Does he want you the way I want you?" Ace leaned in closer , if that was possible .
"No" I let out a breath . "Come home with me" Ace pleaded . "But you'll break my heart again" I stared at
him with pain in my eyes . "I break everything , and if I do , I won't do it purposely" Ace stroked my cheek .
"You have a choice to make" Ace helped me up before walking off into the crowd of people taking my heart
with him .

AN: It's official , I've made this song their national anthem this was a long ass chapter and you guys
can stop hating me now

P 39-4
I stood outside, in the freezing cold , shivering my ass off because I'd rather be out here than in there .
I can't hurt Haze . I don't want to hurt him like the way Ace hurt me . So for that reason I'm choosing Haze.
Ace is toxic . He's broken , damaged , impulsive , reckless , selfish , cruel , manipulative, and a liar . I don't
even have one bad thing to say about Haze . Haze is a good guy.
He's the right guy .
I stared up at the stars that shined so brightly above me . Stars were so beautiful. It was nights like these that
made me want to live . I felt cold air move in and out of my lungs , it felt almost therapeutic .
It's a lot . Everything's a lot.
Suddenly I felt someone grab the back of my neck roughly . "The Vipers" someone hissed making my heart
pound. I seen my father's hand . I immediately whimpered in pain . "Please father , just leave me alone" I
begged him to go away . "Pathetic little shit , you went missing for days . You had your brothers worried
sick" He slapped me over the back of the head .
It stung but not really . I stayed tense , his grip still on my neck . "Ace" I whispered , wanting him to come
and save me . "What did you say?" My father growled . "Nothing" I coward from his touch . "Your mom is so
upset about this , I guess I'll just have to set you straight" He states powerfully .
"It's sad that you have to beat up a girl to feel powerful" I finally snapped . I took so much abuse and torture
from him that I've finally had enough . "You're a fucking shit father , I've always hated you" I growled ripping
myself from his grips. "I'm done being your punching bag , do you hear me and I'm tired of needing someone
else to save me" I raised my voice as I stood infront of him .
"Shut up you slut" he punched me across the face but I didn't flinch . "You are your own downfall" I hissed at
him . I felt the blood trickle down from my nose . I swung at my father out of anger but he caught my wrist .
He did exactly as i thought. I swung my opposite leg into the air , kicking him in the side of the face . He
groaned painfully .
"I've had enough of you treating me like shit" I punched him . "And abusing me" I punched him again . "I'm
not a shit daughter , you're just a bad father" I punched him one last time causing him to fall to his knees .
He groaned in pain as he knelt on the ground . I was panting loudly , my chest falling and rising . It felt good.
"But I'd like to thank you for making me strong , stronger than you anyway" I shrugged about to walk away .
He grabbed my leg , causing me to trip and fall. He kept his filthy hand on my leg and pulled me back to him .
He grabbed my arms and forced them together, throwing punches at me with his free one . To be honest I
couldn't really feel anything.
"You fucking worthless piece of shit" My father snarled angrily , taking out a knife from his pocket . This
was it . This was how I die .
He ran it along my body . I waited for it to stop . I was tired of fighting .
But then , in the blink of an eye , my father was ripped off me and thrown back like five feet . It was Ace .
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Ace looked furious , I could practically see the steam coming out of his nose . Fear filled my fathers face .
"I thought you didn't care about her" My father tried to crawl away from Ace . "No I care about her too much"
Ace took the knife from my father . He glanced at me . I nodded exhaustedly , staring at them from the ground
before staring up at the stars . I heard my father scream until it suddenly stopped .
My eyelids became heavy . I think that's the first time I've ever heard Ace say he cares about me . I could
hear the taps of Ace's shoes getting closer . He stood over me , looking down at me lying on the floor . He
picked my weak limp body up off the ground and into his arms.
The blood from my nose spilled onto his suit. "Oh your suit" my weak and fragile voice spoke . "This suit
can be replaced by money , you can't" he whispered , knowing I was probably very sensitive right now .
"I wanted to die" I whimpered as a tear streamed down my face . A look of pure fear washed over Ace's face
. "I thought you didn't want me" I winced in pain , physically and emotionally . "No , no , of course I wanted
you" Ace shook his head vigorously wondering how I could even think that . "I thought I would break you"
Ace's eyes became glossy . "You can't break what's already broken" I whimpered leaning into him . He
walked towards his limo, carrying me in his arms .
"Sofia" Ace muttered , making me turn my head with the little energy I had left .
He pressed his lips against mine , making everything inside me scream with happiness . His kiss was perfect
. It was better than I expected. I craved him . Everything about him. I keep trying to convince myself that he's
not the one because who wants to love a ruthless killer . But he's the one . I know he's the one .
Nobody can make me feel the way he does .
Ace broke the kiss to take a breath . "I wish I had done that sooner" he panted , catching his breath . "Me too"
I leaned against his chest. "You should put me down , I can walk" I tried to sound as convincing as possible .
"No way" Ace stubbornly mumbled as he walked us over to the limo .
"What about Haze" I winced trying to move in Ace's arms . "I'll let him know , I have you now and I'll take
care of you" one of Ace's drivers opened the limo door .
Ace placed me in the limo , earning a wince from me . "Sorry" he let go of me cautiously like I was a baby .
He climbed in and I rested my head on his lap . It was finally warm .
"Your dress" Ace traced his finger over the stains of blood with a concerned look on his face . "It's ok , it's
only a dress" I murmured to him . "This is like Deja vu" Ace stared down at me . "Yeah" I shut my eyes. "I
remember sitting here , trying not to let you make me happy" Ace admitted while playing with my hands .
"Don't do that, it's annoying" I put on a deep voice to mimic Ace . I got a smile off him . "I actually thought it
was really cute" he snickered staring out the window . "What made you change your mind about telling me?"
I blinked at him curiously . "I was miserable without you , plus seeing you with Haze, it drives me crazy" He
shook his head . "What , why". "You know why" he glared at me . "I really don't" .
"It's because he had his hands on my girl , I was supposed to be in his place . My hands on your waist as we
danced, making you smile and laugh . I was supposed to be the one you wanted" Ace glanced out the window

P 40-2
longingly . "You are" I whispered softly , closing my eyes again. "But he's your boyfriend" Ace sighed
defeatedly. "I know" I kept my eyes closed , not wanting to see Ace's sad face .
"The universe keeps trying to keep us apart Ace , tell it to stop" I whispered half asleep trying to ignore the
nagging pain . "No , it was me , but no more" he brushed my hair behind my ear .
"You want me?" I whimpered softly . "Always" was the last thing I heard before I fell asleep .

P 40-3
I woke up to Ace sleeping next to me . It wasn't a dream .
This was rare , I've never really seen him sleep . I watched him for a moment , only for him to mumble
something and stir around in his sleep , he was also sweating alottt. It's weird because he didn't look
peaceful, I wanted to wake him up .
"Ace" I poked his big, muscular shoulder cautiously. He let out a snore making me giggle quietly. He wasn't
wearing a shirt , well he never does . I think he does it on purpose.
Suddenly , while I was lost in my thought , Ace shot up , staring around the room frantically. I was freaking
out watching him just scan the room vigorously for something. His eyes connected with mine .
"You're okay , it was only a dream" I tried to calm him down . I grabbed his face gently , making him look at
me . "I've got you" I reassured him . Sweat dripped from his forehead as his chest raised and fell back down ,
for the first few seconds fast but then slower .
He shut his eyes , letting out a sigh . "Haze is probably here" Ace was breathed heavily , wiping the sweat
off of his forehead .
I tried to get up but a sharp pain shot through my chest . I winced in pain , immediately catching Ace's
attention. I frowned my eyebrows in pain as I held the side my chest , just underneath my armpit.
"Don't move , I'll bring him to you" groggy Ace warned me , standing up and brushing his medium length hair
back . "Where's my shirt" he turned around and asked me . "I don't know , I'm not your wife" I giggled . He
muttered something before going through his drawer . "Shit , you're in my bed , your boyfriend won't be too
happy about that" Ace clenched his teeth together.
"What's he going to do about it , I have you to protect me" I smiled cheekily . "Don't do that" Ace pointed at
me from his dresser , whilst looking through his dresser for a shirt. "Don't do what?" I giggled innocently .
He snapped his head towards me . "That, it makes me want to tear off all your clothes" Ace rolled his eyes . I
immediately stopped , remembering that I wasn't a virgin . Ace glanced over at me and saw my worried face
. "What's wrong?" He asked . "Nothing , I'm fine" I shrugged , swallowing the lump in my throat .
Apart of me feared he did only want me for my virginity , that I don't even have anymore . I'm kind of
regretting that now .
Ace slipped on a t-shirt and wandered out of the room . I slowly lay back down , making sure not to hurt my
ribs .
Then , Haze walked in . "Baby , you're okay" Haze ran over to me , wrapping his arms around me . Baby ?
That's a new addition. I hesitated on hugging him back but I did anyways . Nina walked in . She knew straight
away but she wasn't angry . "How are you feeling" he stroked my cheek with Ace standing at the door . I
glanced at Ace who looked ...... devastated.
"Better" I fake smiled . Haze hugged me tightly causing me to groan . "Ace explained what happened to me ,
and as much as I hate you being with him , I'm glad he found you when he did" Haze kissed me washing off
the feeling of Ace's lips against mine . I glanced at Ace while kissing Haze and Ace wasn't looking at us , he
physically couldn't .
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"Haze , could you go get Sofia a glass of water please" Nina asked him . "How do you know she wants a
drink?" Haze snapped at his sister . "She's right , I probably look like I need some water" i asked wishfully .
Haze nodded before standing up and walking out . "You .... go do something useful" Nina rolled her eyes at
Ace and Ace stared at me , wondering who this girl was. I signalled him to go away and he did .
"I know you're going to choose Ace , but does Ace know that because I know for sure Haze doesn't" Nina
looked disappointed. "He's a good guy" I sighed , rubbing my temples . "Which one" Nina raised her
eyebrows. "Both" I responded . "Let me show you how my mind is working ..... one could make me live"I
tried to look on the bright side . "And the other could make me want to live , that's the difference, just , one 4
letter word changes the whole meaning" I shook my head at my thoughts .
"Let me guess Ace is the want" Nina smiled sympathetically , trying to be nice about the whole situation.
"Yeah..... but he's also the need , the person I need to live" I reassured her .
"God....you've been with us for two weeks and that is the only time I've ever seen you so sure of something"
she shut her eyes , disappointed for her brother . I stared at the ground , ashamed .
"But the way Ace looks at you , isn't like how Haze looks at you" Nina admitted , reluctant to tell me the
explanation. "Haze looks at you with lust , Ace looks at you with love. And there is a massive difference".
"Haze will get over you , but I don't think Ace ever will" Nina grabbed my hand . "So it's ok , if you do what
you want for once Sofia . Choose yourself and stop worrying about everyone else , because if I've learned
anything about you over these past 2 weeks , it's been that you are not a selfish person" Nina squeezed my
hand , reassuring me that everything will be alright .
"I'm back with the- "we have to go" Nina interrupted him while she stood up , making this easier for me .
"Okay , Sofia grab your stuff" Haze brushed off his being demanding . "Without Sofia" Nina sighed
regretfully . Haze gave me a confused glance before realising what was happening . "I knew it wasn't a good
idea to let you stay" Haze growled angrily .
I didn't see Ace .
"You can't stop two people who are in love Haze , you know that" Nina shook her head as she spoke with a
gentle tone . "Fine" Haze stormed out . He gave up surprisingly easy .
"We're not in love" I threw Nina a concerned stare . "Okay then" she raised her eyebrows at me with a slight
smile . "Is this the last time I'll see you?" I questioned softly . "Hopefully not" She grinned sorrowfully .

P 41-2
"Where's your boy toy gone ?" Ace came in and sat on the bed . I bit my lip nervously.
"I- um......I chose you" I whispered shyly catching his full attention. "You're staying?" his features
immediately softened , the tone of his voice switching from grumbly and cold to warm and vulnerable . I
nodded slightly , staring at him , patiently waiting for his reaction.
"So does this mean we're back ?" His big eyes stared at me . I let out a giggle at Ace who was struggling to
hide his excitement. "I guess so" I uttered to him . A smile appeared on his face as he pulled out his necklace
.
"I fixed it awhile ago , like a day after you left actually" Ace stared at his chain . I got up and grabbed my
purse . "Well....I may have carried my bracelet around everywhere" I blushed embarrassed , taking my
bracelet out of my purse . He took the bracelet out of my hands and clicked it onto my wrist .
"Ace" I sighed not wanting to say what I was about to . "I don't want to be with someone who's afraid of
being with me , in our home and outside of our home" I stared at him straight in the eyes . "I need you to let
me in , let me take care of you" I almost begged him . "Because before it was torture, not knowing if we were
a thing or you were sleeping with other women , I don't want that , I want you t- he kissed me making my
heart race and my stomach flutter . "I'm all in" he reassured me with a serious tone .
I gave him a soft smile earning a gentle look from Ace . He doesn't smile when he's happy , he doesn't cry
when he's sad , but he definitely hurts people when he's angry .
"Ace , how are you?" I asked after a moment of silence . He threw me a unsure glance before grabbing his
journal and opening it , skimming through the pages . "Tell me" I shut the book forcefully. He sighed
reluctantly. "I'm doing fine" he grumbled quietly before reopening his journal. "Not taking that as an answer"
I shut the book on him again . He widened his eyes at me out of annoyance. I raised my eyebrow , giving him
a serious look .
"Well , I'm still grieving if that's what you want to know" Ace starting scribbling stuff down in his journal . I
admired his veiny arms up to his concentrated yet perfect face . "Are you grieving healthily" I flung one of his
pens from his night stand at him . I barley missed him making me laugh . He stared up at me from the journal
before giving me a smile . I smirked at him , grabbing his hand and playing with it .
I intertwined my fingers with his. He was quiet and focused writing down his thoughts and probably his
emotions too . I drew tiny circles on the inside of his palm while he wrote with his free one . I started to
massage his hand , getting a huff of relief out of him . He put down his pen and closed his journal . Atleast I
think it's a journal .
"Do you want a shoulder massage?" I giggled at him watching him almost fall asleep . "Ohhh yeah" he
groaned sitting up and and letting me slip in behind him . I massaged out the knots in his back . He was
almost moaning from how good it felt . "Does it really feel that good?" I massaged his neck . "Yes" he
replied sounding like a zombie.
"You know ..... massages are better if you're naked" I whispered playfully in his ear from behind him . His
eyebrows raised . He took his shirt off . "Did you miss me or my abs" he joked . "Your abs" I said with a
straight face . He gave me a shocked look . "I'm joking , but not really" I winked at him but he didn't care , he
was too happy with his back massage .
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"I'm going downstairs, you coming?" I hopped off the bed . "Nah , I'm going to write some more" he lay down
. "Okie dokie" I uttered and he snickered. I cringed so hard, why did I just say that . "Forget i said that" I
glared at him warningly .
I sat downstairs and no one was here. I watched TV while Ace was upstairs writing . His house was so calm
when a million people weren't running around . If we get a house together , no one else is allowed in , it'll be
peace and quiet all the time , no distractions except our kids of course .
I suddenly realised what I was thinking about . What am I doing . We're not even properly boyfriend and
girlfriend yet . Ace doesn't date , he sleeps around , when people find out he has a girlfriend, they'll all be
questioning me and him and us .
I stared at the TV but I was distracted by my constant worries and thoughts .
"Sofia?" I heard Ice say , to see him eating grapes out of a little bowl . "I don't think I've ever been so happy
to see someone in my life" Ice exclaimed happily , hugging me and handing me the bowl of grapes . I frowned
my eyebrows and blinked a few times at the bowl . "Ice , are you feeling okay?" I questioned him , my voice
raised slightly to show him I was curious . "I am completely fine" Ice smiled happily , almost laughing . "I
thought you hated me" I blinked blankly at him . "I did , until Ace became a complete and utter mess without
you" He chuckled happily , sitting down on the sofa across from me .
"He was a mess" I threw a grape into my mouth . "I've never him like that before . He wouldn't get out of bed
, he wouldn't shower , he wouldn't talk , he'd mainly work when he did get out of bed and we couldn't find
you so for ages so ........ he was a mess for awhile" Ice expressed his concerns to me . I stopped eating the
grapes once I realised that Ice was serious .
"So you're telling me he was broken without me?" I questioned him , not sure what to think . "A lot more than
usual" he nodded frantically.
"Sofia's back" Ice spoke to someone behind me . I turned to see Dante grabbing a drink . He had a red cast on
his arm . "Oh , Ace also broke Dante's arm and beat him almost to death" Ice added like it was no big deal . I
covered my mouth with my hand . He did this because of me . "It was my fault" Dante shook his head , taking
the blame for Ace .
I knew Ace could be cruel but hurting Dante was just merciless. "Why did he hurt you" I threw Dante a
puzzled face. "Oh you're going to love this one" Ice sat back with a smile .
Dante stared at floor before looking up at me . "I told Ace I didn't like you being here and that he was getting
soft" Dante sighed regretfully . "And ?" I folded my arms , waiting for the rest . I knew that wasn't all because
I know atleast ten people have probably said that to Ace.
"Then I told him I only said that because I....." he paused . "Because you what" I hissed at him . "Because I
was developing feelings for you" Dante spit out hesitantly . "I'm sorry Dante , but Ace is my guy" I shook my
head , slightly shocked . I never expected Dante to fall in love with me . But wait , he was the trigger for Ace
, ontop of all of Ace's thoughts that he would destroy me or whatever .

P 42-2
"Basically you were jealous so you destroyed me and Ace's relationship" I said blankly to Dante who stared
at Ice . Ice just shrugged .
"Yeah" he nodded. I shook my head and walked away .
I was about to go up to Ace when the bell rang . I ran upstairs to get Ace but he was out of his room by the
time I got to the top of the stairs . "Let me get it" Ace announced from upstairs , jogging down to open the
door . He had a serious look on his face . He opened the door . I seen two people wander in . "Ace" the man
nodded at him . "Hey Ace" the woman smiled , hugging him , Ace being slightly shocked . "Oh yeah sorry"
the woman giggled pulling her hands back , forgetting that doesn't really like any human contact because he
just doesn't like people .
They greeted Ice and Dante . The man was tall and had big broad shoulders like Ace , but was still more
....... manly . He was attractive and was obviously athletic or worked out often like Ace . The woman was
beautiful. She was gorgeous. She had light brown hair and a smile that could light up an entire room if it
wanted to .
They had suitcases with them suggesting that they were staying for awhile . Then, in a blink of an eye , two
teenage boys walked in . "No I'm going on a date with her" The brown haired one exclaimed . One of them
was identical to who I'm assuming was their father but the other had blonde hair and blue eyes. "No she's
mine" The blonde one challenged him .
"Would you two shut up" The man snapped at them . "No" the both replied . The man looked like he wanted
to kill them . "Woahhh big guy , take a step back , I'll give them a talk later" The woman reassured the man
who calmed down .
The man scanned the room and he locked eyes with me . I was standing slightly behind a wall at the top of the
stairs . "Who's that?" The man asked . I shook my head at Ace . "She um ..... Sofia" Ace didn't know what to
say . "She's his girlfriend" Ice exposed him . "Ace Hernandez has a girlfriend" The man chuckled jokingly .
"You're no better , there was once a time when people thought the exact same thing about you" The woman
warned the man , shutting the man up . I really liked this woman .
Ace appeared infront of me . "I don't Ace , he's a bit scary" I gulped . "Do you think I'd ever let anyone hurt
you?" Ace raised his eyebrows at me questioningly . "No" I sighed defeatedly, coming out from behind the
wall.
Ace led me down the stairs .
"I'm Ashton Carter" The man introduced himself . He held out his hand and I shook it , his hand basically
engulfing mine .
"You're scaring her Ashton" the woman warned him . "I'm Ella Carter" she hugged me . She radiated
happiness , and she seemed so warm. "You guys are the Carter's" I gasped at the realisation . "Yep" Ashton
uttered , sitting on the couch with a groan. I slowly stood behind Ace . He was very intimidating yet this
woman wasn't scared to be around him .
We all ended up sitting on the couch. "I'm Grayson but people call me Gray" The brown haired teenager
introduced himself . "I'm Chase and you are......" the blonde one shook my hand . "Very attractive" Gray
P 43-1
winked at me.
"Grayson Carter . Go upstairs now" Ashton's voice deepened to sound demanding, scaring even me .
Grayson stood up and basically ran upstairs. "I'm sorry about them" Ella shook her head , embarrassed. "It's
okay , he's a teenager" I nodded .
"Don't mind my brother , he's a bit forward like our dad" Chase rolled his eyes . "But my brothers a good guy
, he just doesn't like to show it" Chase shrugged . "Also the Ashton in him" Ella smiled gently .
"Are you guys friends with Ace ?" I questioned them curiously. "Yeah , we used to live near this area and
became family friends . Then we moved across the country and visit every so often to make sure Ace is doing
okay" She explained , meanwhile I was wondering if they owned a Mafia. "Are you guys apart of the Mafia?"
that was a risky question for me to ask since if they weren't we probably would've had to kill them . "Oh yeah
, of course" Ella nodded , confirming my suspicion. "We also heard about Ace's mom and we didn't want him
to be alone" she uttered with a sad face . That was nice of them . "But we just told him we were coming for a
visit , so if you wouldn't mention the last part to Ace , it would be appreciated" she smiled ever so slightly at
me . "Yeah of course" I responded with a nod . There was an awkward silence for a second .
"So you and Ace huh?" Ella nudged me , making me smile slightly . "I don't know" I sighed staring at Ace and
Ashton talking about killing people . "Let me guess , he's an asshole who doesn't want to be loved ?" Ella
uttered questioningly to me . "No" I shook my head .
"He's an asshole who wants to be loved but is scared because I'm probably the first good thing to ever walk
into his life" I explained to Ella who just listened . She was really good at listening . "Now I have no doubts
you and Ace are made for eachother" Ella smiled at me reassuringly . "How do you know?" I looked at her
puzzled since she had hardly seen me and Ace interact. "Because me and Ashton were made for eachother ,
and I tried to give up on him , more than once but he'd crawl right back , somehow finding his way into my
life , purposely or accidentally. When I look at you and Ace , I see a younger version of us , different but two
people who'll be together forever , and that answer you gave , it means you understand him . All I can ask
you to do is to not give up on him" Ella spoke so passionately about Ashton .
"So , I've heard stories about you and Ashton , the two epic lovers" I finally let it out before I burst . "Can
you tell me one?" I asked like a child , almost jumping with excitement. She let out a snicker .
"There was this guy called Derek , he was in our inner circle . I'll keep this short because it's very long and
depressing but basically he kidnapped me, Ashton , and my son Grayson . We were so drugged up that we
could barely stand and Derek tells me that I had to kill my husband , well at the time boyfriend" she shrugged
like it was no big deal . "Ashton was going to let me kill him , I had the knife at his chest , I was shaking and
sobbing , I was a mess" she giggled while I was so intrigued by this story .
"But then our friends saved us , and we lived" she smiled at me . "So we were okay and we lived happily
and had another child together". I glanced at Chase puzzled. "No I'm the odd one out" Chase smiled but didn't
really want to . "I told you to stop saying that , you're just as much my son as Grayson" Ella kissed his
forehead. "Thanks mom" he smiled . "Grayson wouldn't even let me kiss his forehead , that's how bad it's
gotten" Ella sighed hopelessly.
"Mom , he's fine , you're overreacting" Chase rolled his eyes as he pulled out his phone . "Shit" Chase
snapped standing up . "Language!" Ashton snapped at Chase . "Sorry" Chase sat down with a huff . "The girl
P 43-2
was asked to the dance already" Chase replied disappointed . "Maybe it's for the best , me and your mom
never had much luck at dances" Ashton smiled at Ella who sniggered at his response ."That's an
understatement" Ella said.
Chase looked disappointed. "You're cute , someone will come around" I ruffled his blonde , slightly curly
hair . He gave me a smile .
"What age are you guys anyways?" I asked him . "15" Chase replied quickly . He stood up and stretched .
"Dad I'm going outside to play football, you coming?" Chase asked , rooting through his bag and grabbing his
football. "Yeah" Ashton stood up , dragging Ace along with him. "Help" Ace mouth to me . I gave him a
smile causing him to trip over Ashton from not paying attention. Me and Ella laughed while Ace just lay on
the ground.
"Seriously Ace?" Ashton rolled his eyes . "Ashton Carter , I'm warning you , don't play rough with them ,
they are just boys after all" Ella teased Ace . I seen Ace become angry and respond with "I'm not a boy" . I
let out a giggle . "Well atleast parts of me aren't, right Sofia?" Ace winked at me , grabbing the ball and
running out to the backgarden. I blushed as Ashton , Ella , and Chase all stared at me . "Gross Ace , I didn't
have to know that" Chase growled at Ace . I heard Ace laugh .
His laugh was very rare yet it sounded so good . "Ace Hernandez, get back in here and apologize to your
girlfriend" Ashton chased after Ace .
"Ace has a chance to be a boy again when Ashton is around , Ashton is basically Ace's father" Ella grinned
as she watched them play out the back . "Considering Kai is a real piece of shit" Ella nodded. "I second that"
I whispered to her .
Ashton came back in , holding Ace by the back of the neck , forcing him to come inside. "Say it" Ashton
glared at him . "I'm sorry" Ace responded staring at Ashton . Ace knew that he wasn't stronger than Ashton .
"You're sorry for what?" Ashton raised his eyebrow curiously. "For the comment I made" Ace said
reluctantly .
"Ok Ashton , let him go" Ella giggled grabbing Ashton's hand , completely taking all of Ashton's attention.
She had him wrapped around her finger . "I love you" she whispered to him . "I love you more" He kissed
her . "Not possible" she broke the kiss but hugged him . "Hey I wasn't finished" Ashton grabbed her face
pulling her back in . She smiled into the kiss .
I stared at them in awe and Ace seen me , staring longingly at the happy couple . He walked over to me . His
hand brushed off mine , telling me that he wanted to hold it . I smiled slightly , intertwining my fingers with
his as we watched Ashton and Ella .
I lay my head on his shoulder . "I'm not sorry about the comment" Ace whispered to me causing me to laugh .
Ace leaned his forehead against the side of my face .
I turned my head towards him and he stared at me . I seen something in his eyes I've never seen before . I
can't explain what it was but I didn't want to look away . He inched closer , his breath against my face . I
hated when he did this . It was agonising waiting for him to kiss me . "Kiss her Ace , this is killing me" Ella
shouted at him while hugging Ashton .

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Ace smiled at me . "Is this annoying" he questioned with a smirk . "Yes it- he pressed his lips against mine . I
wrapped my arms around him, deepening the kiss . I heard Ella squeal from behind us .
"This is so gross" Chase walked back outside with the football .
Ace didn't stop kissing me . Instead he grabbed my hips , pulling me even more impossibly close to him . I
couldn't get enough of him . His lips , how he tasted .
"They remind me of us" Ashton whispered to Ella . "I know" Ella grinned at him , pecking his lips again .
Ace broke the kiss to catch his breath . "You should probably go play football" I panted , catching my breath .
He nodded but pecked my lips before running out again .

An: I'm going to start diving into the darker parts of Ace soon so just be prepared .

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Ashton , Ace and Chase all came in , looking like they had just gotten out of the shower due to how much they
had sweat.
Ace flopped on the couch . "Ace you stink" I uttered , holding my nose. "Oh yeah" he stood up , grabbing my
wrist . "Ashton help" I shrieked as Ace pulled me into his arms . "Sorry Sofia , but my wife's getting it too"
Ashton lifted Ella into his arms . "Ashton Carter , put me down" Ella couldn't help but laugh while shrieking
at him . "Looks like you'll have to shower with me now" Ace whispered to me , making me squirm in his
arms and sent tingles through out my body . Ace ran his fingers along the bottom of my stomach playfully.
"Don't" I growled at him .
"Feisty" Ace responded . He let me go . "You're still showering with me" He shouted as he ran up the stairs .
"He literally doesn't care who hears him" I threw my arms up in the air frustratedly while blushing . Ashton
and Ella laughed at my reaction.
A few minutes had passed and Ace came back downstairs. "Come on" He grabbed me , throwing me over his
shoulder . "No ones gonna save me ?" I shrieked at them . "Do you want to be saved" Ella asked me with a
smirk . Not really . I didn't respond.
Ace put me down when he opened the bathroom door . He strolled over to his shower and took off his shirt
revealing his toned body . I couldn't peel my eyes away , I didn't want to give him the satisfaction of knowing
he had a good body but the man was hand crafted by god .
He pulled me in by my wrist , and then turned on the shower . "You can leave if you want" Ace muttered
while taking off his trousers . I shrugged and took off my top , catching his eye . He walked over to me and
ran his hands down the side of my body , stopping at my waist . He licked his lips before biting . "You
always do that" I spoke softly , unhooking my bra as the steam began to fill up the bathroom .
I slipped off my skirt and thong . Ace was in his boxers . "Shit, the towels" he slapped his forehead , running
out . I giggled at him as I felt the warm water run drown my body , making me want to fall asleep . It felt so
soothing . I turned to face the shower head , letting the warm water heal my aching muscles and ribs.
Ace placed the towels on the heater so that they would be warm when we got out .
He stepped into the shower and shut the shower door behind him . I had my eyes shut , taking in the water that
seemed to bring me peace . Ace grabbed a bottle of shampoo and squirted ALOT onto my head . I gasped as
the shampoo dropped down the sides of my wet hair before letting out a laugh . "You stink" Ace teased ,
getting a little shoulder shove off me in return .
I scooped some of the shampoo off of my head and plopped it onto his . "I only stink because of you" I glared
at him , massaging his scalp as fuzzed up the shampoo in his hair . He smiled slightly .
He then washed my hair , pulling the shower head out of it's stand and washing the soap out of my hair . He
then did himself before reconnecting the shower head to it's holder .
I seen that the glass of the shower door was all fogged up so I drew a smily face on it. Ace let out a chuckle
at my little drawing . He drew devil horns on it . I giggled at his addition.
"I can actually draw" he bragged confidently. "Oh yeah" I raised my eyebrows at him . "Yeah" he smirked as
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I stepped closer to him . He put his hands on my waist and pulled me in . He kissed me , smiling into it .
"What's got you in a good mood?" I questioned him , beaming . "I don't know , maybe for the first time I can
see a ray of sunshine through the thick black clouds" he muttered , his smile slowly fading as he talked ,
staring at me .
"I'm going to act like I understood that" I chirped happily as I hopped out of the shower , grabbing a towel
and throwing one over to Ace . "It's so cold" I jittered infront of the bathroom mirror , with the towel around
me . Ace hugged me from behind with his towel wrapped around just his waist , and whispered "you wanna
know what's the best way to warm up , skin on skin contact" . His whisper sent tingles throughout my body ,
making my heart race . My breath hitched , signalling to him that he was affecting me .
He let out a soft chuckle before releasing me from his hug . He left the bathroom and went into his room . I
felt so cold without his arms around me.
———————
A few hours had passed and now we were all sitting downstairs talking .
"So how long have you and Sofia been a couple?" Ashton's low husky voice asked Ace . Ace started to tense
up as he rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "I hate when you do that" I grabbed his hand , stopping him
from rubbing his neck . He scowled at me playfully.
"Since my father arranged us to be married" Ace replied unsure what to say . "You're father may be a
psychopath but atleast he chose the right girl for you" Ashton responded , glancing at Ella with pure love .
"Once he seen that I was the tiniest bit happy , he didn't like it or her anymore" Ace shrugged resting his arm
over my shoulders as I inched my way closer to him slowly .
I wasn't surprised that Ashton would've let Ella kill him because even though Ella and Ashton love eachother
a lot , Ashton just loves her more . It's so clear watching from an outside perspective , the way he looks at
her , the way he talks about her and to her , the way he smiles at her , anyone would kill for a love like that .
Chase walked in , appearing out of thin air . "Hey , what's for dinner" Grayson strolled in ten minutes later .
"Chinese?" Ace asked the whole room . They all raised their thumbs . "I don't want anything" I replied
quietly to Ace who gazed at me for an answer . He stood up about to get the phone to get ready to order . I
knew he wouldn't let me go without food . "No way , you're eating something, I haven't seen you eat today"
Ace warned me putting on his deep tone . I just shrivelled up into a ball on the couch . "My ribs hurt" I
whined quietly . "I'll get you some painkillers" Ace muttered before walking into the kitchen .
I shut my eyes and before I knew it , Ace had woken me to eat . I got scared from suddenly being woken up . I
jumped out of fear , covering my head for protection instinctively. Ace hushed everyone in the room as I
stared around worriedly . "Here" Ace handed me a big plate of food that I looked at worriedly . "You don't
have to eat it all , just some of it" Ace reassured me . I yawned , sitting up . It was 9pm and I was already
tired . I picked at the food slowly , but I ate some .
"Sofia" Ashton threw me over a can of Coke . I smiled happily at the soda . It was my favourite thing to drink
and in general .
We talked for awhile before I became sleepy again. I fell asleep sitting upright . I ended up leaning on Ace's
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shoulder . He moved me so that I was lying on his lap .

Wow guys , thank you so much for 10k reads ! That's insane .

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I jolted up from my nightmare , sweating and gasping for air .
Ace's POV:
Ella had fallen asleep in Ashton's arms not long after Sofia fell asleep against my shoulder .
Me , Ashton , Grayson and Chase were all talking about random shit .
Then Sofia sat up frantically, gasping and looked horrified . "Sofia!" I said loudly trying to make her realise
she was awake . Ella had been woken up by Sofia's gaps and was about to come over before Ashton put his
arm infront of her to stop her .
She looked at me , gasping and scared . I gently grabbed her face forcing her head towards me . "Look at me"
I muttered , but she couldn't hear me . "Look at me!" I demanded loudly . She had tears welling up in her eyes
as she stared at me , shaking from fear. She whimpered as she tried desperately to catch her breath . "I've got
you" I reassured her . "B-but he had me" she weeped still shaking .
I hated this . I hated this so fucking much . I can't help her when she's asleep and that's why I hate it . I'd love
to kill her demons but only she can do that .
"Well now I've got you , understand?" I raised my eyebrows at her . She nodded slightly before playing with
her hands , trying to calm down but it wasn't working, she couldn't stop crying. Ella stared at Ashton with a
pout , feeling bad for Sofia.
I pulled her into my arms , the safest place for her to be . She latched onto me and didn't want to let go .
"You're okay" I hushed her muffled weeps . She nodded slightly , blubbering into my shoulder . I went to lie
down and she clung onto me like I was going to disappear . "I'm only lying down" I replied . I lay on the
couch as she got comfortable next to me . I felt awful . I couldn't do anything else to help.
She was very tense for a second but eventually gave in , cuddling up to me , lying in my arms . I ran my hand
through her hair soothingly .
"Night mares?" I questioned her . "Yeah , I think so" She glanced up , now at ease lying next to me. "What did
he do?" I asked carefully , not wanting to upset her again. "He strangled me" she hid her face in my chest ,
feeling safe in my arms. I felt the anger in my chest as she hid afraid . "I won't let him hurt you" I whispered
quietly to her so only she could hear . She nodded slightly.
"You have to admit, it feels good when they find comfort in you because you think the only thing in you is
darkness" Ashton muttered eating the leftovers of the Chinese from earlier .
Ashton has a point . It was weird to have someone who felt safe in your arms instead of ..... well terrified.
It's crazy to me how I wouldn't even let a girl sleep in my bed , let alone in my arms .
"You're her safety blanket" a half asleep Ella murmured cuddled next to Ashton . "What's a safety blanket?"
Grayson asked confused. "You guys are 15 , you won't understand what a person being a safety blanket is
like" Ella explained to them . "She's so ...... innocent , I almost feel like I'm infecting her with darkness by
being around her let alone touching her" I sighed defeatedly as I contemplated with my mind .
"You're father is my safety blanket" Ella uttered quietly, exhausted. "And she is mine ..... even though I could
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kick her ass" Ashton teased her . "Not true" Ella said to me .
"So is it someone that makes you feel safe?" Grayson asked unsure . "Or someone that shelters you from fire -
I mean pain , sorry I'm going off of a fire blanket" Chase chuckled lightly as he blew his blonde hair out of
his eyes .
"Both" Ashton replied while Ella drew circles on the inside of Ashton's palm . Sofia stirred in my arms , and
then proceeded to hold my hand whilst asleep . She hummed contently .
"It's weird . I never thought I'd see Ace with a girl" Grayson raised his eyebrows judgementally . "Neither
did iiii" I sighed as I watched Sofia's peaceful expression. "Did you get a date to the dance yet ?" I teased
Grayson . "Yeah" he smiled proudly . "Who is it" Chase asked him curiously. "Zaiya" He grinned . Chase
rolled his eyes . "Who's Zaiya?" Ashton asked before kissing Ella's repeatedly making her laugh . "She's the
popular girl" Chase scoffed. "You're just jealous" Grayson snarled at him . "Woahhh , relax" I hushed them.
"You wake my girl , you'll be killed , understood" I growled at them , causing the boys to shut up .
"Wow he's almost as protective as you" Ella giggled slightly speaking to Ashton . "I'm not protective" I
scowled at Ella . Ashton stood up and walked towards us . He went to touch Sofia but I grabbed his wrist ,
stopping his arm forcefully. "Not protective huh?" Ashton turned my attention to my hand that had stopped
him from touching her . I did that subconsciously without even realising it .
"Oh shit" I stared at my hand as if it wasn't mine . Ashton sat back down with a groan . "Do you still wear
suits all the time ?" Ashton questioned me . "Yeah" I nodded . "You should be a kid while you still can"
Ashton warned me , pulling out a cigarette. "I don't want to be a kid" I mumbled frustrated.
"Being a teenager is great" Grayson smirked while scrolling through his phone . "Yeah well your father didn't
abuse you mentally and physically" I scoffed , pulling out a smoke , following Ashton's lead . I started getting
really tense lately , it's like my anger would all of a sudden turn on and I couldn't switch it off no matter how
hard I tried. I clenched my fist , trying to let my anger dissolve.
Ashton looked at me. "Go take a walk" Ashton demanded . I don't know how but he noticed my anger . I
could feel that I was going to snap . I gently moved Sofia off of me and took my cigarette outside . I inhaled a
lot of smoke and slowly breathed it out , hoping it'd give me some relief but it didn't . It gave none actually.
Probably because I've been smoking since I was 15 .
I walked back inside and jogged upstairs. I grabbed my wooden baseball bat that my father had gotten me for
my 16th birthday and took it outside with me . I walked up to the really big tree in my back garden and stared
at it for a moment . I held the cigarette in my mouth while the bat rested on my shoulder.
This should give me some relief .
I started swinging the bat at the tree . Each hit becoming harder and harder . I was so angry at the world . So
fucking angry . It had given me the best thing in my life only for me to loose her again later . I know I'll fuck it
up . I know I'll fuck it up somehow.
An: I really like doing Ace's POV chapters , I feel like we get to see what goes on in his head when I
write these . And merry Christmas guyssss

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I didn't stop hitting the tree .
The bat was making whipping noises from swinging through the air so fast . I grunted frustratedly as I bashed
the wooden bat against the tree repeatedly with no sign of stopping .
My cigarette stayed in my mouth while swung the bat as hard as I could , taking out my anger on the tree . I
was angry at the world because everytime I seemed to be happy , it took it away again. My hands tightened
on the bat .
"Ace" I heard a soft mumble only to see my girl standing behind me , shivering from the cold. I stared at her
as I caught my breath . "What are you doing?" Her sleepy , soft voice questioned me . "I'm just releasing
some anger" I muttered to her quietly kind of ashamed that I was being so angry . She blinked slowly ,
showing me she was tired . I watched her while she hugged her own arms , trying to shelter herself from the
cold , wearing only a shirt and jeans . "Oh" she responded quietly with a hint of confusion. I could tell she
wanted to ask something but was too shy .
"What's wrong babygirl?" I uttered , dropping the bat to give her my full attention . She didn't make eye
contact with me . "Could you...." she paused shyly , playing with her hands which she did when she was
nervous . I raised an eyebrow at her waiting for a response . "Could you come to bed with me?" Her soft
voice whimpered , almost pleading me to go inside with her. My heart clenched at the sound of those words .
I was too busy admiring what she had just said only to realise I hadn't responded yet. "I don't have nightmares
when I sleep next to you" she stood there , vulnerable and cold . I took my cigarette out of my mouth and
flicked it away .
"Okay" I nodded softly walking over to her . She looked exhausted, her eyes struggling to open after each
blink . I grabbed her and scooped her up into my arms, bridal style . "Am I still your favourite person ?" I
took this chance while she was exhausted to ask her some questions. She nodded , her head resting against
my shoulder with her eyes shut . "You never stopped being my favourite person" she whispered to me .
"Am I yours ?" She mumbled back , half asleep . "You're still the only person I like" I whispered in her ear ,
kissing her cheek gently after I finished my sentence . I seen a slight smile appear on her lips , her eyes still
shut .
"Why do you like me?" I pressed my forehead against hers . "You make me want to live" she admitted ,
shivering in my arms. I think I froze for a second. I was the reason she wanted to live . "That's a pretty shit
reason" I chuckled softly at her , but inside it fucked with heart strings I didn't know I had . She must've
gotten angry at my response because she lifted her head from my chest and said "Don't say that about my
favourite person" she glared at me with the last bit of energy she had left. "He's the best reason" she mumbled
falling asleep.
I gave her a slight smile. She opened her eyes one last time to look at the stars. "Can we go inside now" she
uttered softly , snuggling into me . My heart was pounding in my chest as she got comfortable. "Yeah" I
whispered , walking inside with her in my arms .
I walked inside carefully , making sure Sofia was comfortable sleeping in my arms .
"We're going to bed" I announced quietly to Ashton , Ella , Grayson and Chase. Ella smiled at us , seeing
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Sofia resting in my arms . "Ace Hernandez, I am warning you now , you better not hurt that girl" Ella glared
at me . I glanced down at Sofia before looking back up . "I won't" I responded surely .
I strolled up to my room with Sofia .
—————————
She lay in my arms as I wrote in my journal .
Her breathing was gentle and even , unlike when she was awake . She was always so tense when she was
awake , probably due to the amount of stress her father put her through as a child .
I killed him the other night, stabbed him with his own knife that he planned to use on Sofi a but not before
he tried to beg for mercy . I scoffed to myself while writing that line . No one is allowed even get close to
hurting my girl!. Woah , ok I'll admit I got a bit protective.
Today I was.........happyish , I guess you could say . I think I broke the baseball bat , it's not like I played
baseball anyways . My father keeps requesting to come back and I almost let him , but now that Sofia is
back in my life , he's never allowed back in . She's changing me , I can feel it in my soul .
Ashton told me awhile back that I'd find someone who would make all my anger disappear and replace
with it love and trust . I didn't believe him so I scoffed in his face and walked off , only because I was
afraid he was right . I didn't like the idea of being saved . I should be able to save myself . And then she
came along with her flawless smile and this adorable giggle I wanted to listen to forever. Today she
turned my anger into love . My love for her is stronger than my year's of built up anger .
I think I'm falling in love with her.

An: hey guys , I'll be taking a short Christmas break , so you'll have to go without an update for a few
days but I decided this was a good place to leave it for now . I'll update in 2-3 days ~ Toni

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Sofia's POV :
I woke up to Ace not lying beside me . I glanced around the room confused. I sat up , holding my ribs . They
were still really sore from the other day .
I got out of bed and wandered downstairs. I was still sleepy . I seen Grayson standing at the bottom of the
stairs . "Ace has gone to work , he told me to tell you" Grayson announced. I huffed sadly before going back
up to Ace's room and grabbing one of his few hoodies.
They were too big on me but they smelled like him so that was good . I then ended up in the kitchen with Ella
making me breakfast.
"Hey Sofia" she smiled warmly , putting the breakfast on the plates . "Hey" my groggy voice groaned . "Are
you okay?" Ella asked with a worried tone . "My ribs hurt" I was finding it hard to breathe , resting my head
on the table and holding my ribs .
"I'll call Ace" Ella picked up the phone . "No it's fine , don't disturb him" I quickly said making her put down
the phone . I didn't want to disturb him while he was at work , especially since his work isn't like other jobs.
I groaned as I stood up . "I can take you to the hospital" Ella offered , handing me a plate of food . "No thanks
, I'm okay" I smiled , faking my reassurance. They're probably just badly bruised . The peak pain is a few
days after , when your body becomes sore and just wants to rest . It's probably why I've been so tired . Now
that I think about it , I have a fever too .
I was too busy with my thoughts that I didn't realise I was already in the living room eating my breakfast.
"Here , my mom told me to give this to you" Chase handed me a cup of water and two painkiller pills .
"Thanks" I smiled at him before he sat next to me . "Got a date to the prom yet?" I questioned him teasingly
before swallowing the pills . "No , I'd have girls lining up but they've already been asked" Chase shook his
head disappointedly . His head sprung up like he got an idea . "Will you go with me?" Chase asked hopefully
catching me by surprise.
"A 15 year old and a 17 year old , won't they just think I'm your cousin or something" I giggled , trying to let
him down gently. "No because they'll be too busy focusing on your beauty" Chase reassured me while also
giving me a comment aswell. "And if anyone asks you can say you're 16" Chase uttered eagerly . How can I
say no to him? . "Let me ask Ace when he gets home and if he says ok , then I will go with you" I smiled at
Chase who's eyes lit up with happiness . "Okay" he nodded frantically, standing up and leaving the sitting
room , leaving me to eat my breakfast in peace .

Ace's POV:
"What have we got" Me , Ice and Dante stood infront of a soaking wet man , strapped to a chair . "We think
he's an insider from one of the other mafia's" Ice expressed his concern to me through his eyes .
"We've been trying to get him to confess for awhile now , but nothing's working" Dante groaned , growing
tired of the mans reluctance . "Give me the fucking cloth" I snatched it out of Dante's hand , opening the heavy
metal door and stepping into the dark room .
The mans head was hung low , he was exhausted and tired . "Boss , you've got the wrong man , it's not me" I
could hear the cries for help in his voice but honestly, I just wanted him dead .
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"You're a snitch" I growled furiously at him . "No no no Boss , it wasn't me , please" he begged me for his
freedom but he would have to know at this point that I don't lock people up just to give them their freedom .
"You know I only isolate people when I'm definitely going to kill them , you're in a isolation room" I winked
sadistically at him . "You're going to kill me" he teared up , only coming to the realisation of his future that
wouldn't exist for much longer. "Yes" I threw a knife in the air , flipping it and catching the handle .
"I would never betray you Boss , I'm being honest" He pleaded desperately to be let free . "What's your
wife's name again ? Holly" I smirked at him , seeing the panic on his face grow. "No no" he shouted at me . I
curled my two fingers at the door , "bring her in" .
Dante threw me a woman who stumbled over to me , clearly shaken and confused who also had a blind fold
on. I took my free hand and grabbed the back of the woman's head , forcing her to look up and give me a nice
opening to slit her throat but not before ripping off her blindfold . I pressed the knife against her throat as she
winced in pain . "Baby I'm sorry" he cried , strapped down to the chair . "Help me , Kane" she pleaded . "I
can't because I'm not what they're looking for" Kane jiggled his wrists at an attempt to escape . I pushed the
knife deeper into her throat , earning a scream from her lips .
"I could push it the rest of the way" I shrugged , wanting a smoke but both my hands were currently full. "No
no no" he sobbed watching his wife slowly being killed infront of her .
"You would've killed her by now if you were actually going to kill her" Kane shook his head calming down .
"Exactly, you have a chance to save her" I let him come to his senses for a second . I hate to admit it but this
woman is being killed either way. I don't like bringing innocents into it but sometimes it just has to happen .
"Please my kids can't be orphans" Kane begged for mercy. Too late for that. Who would join a Mafia when
you have kids ? . "Confess" I glared at him . "I'm a Raven" he spit desperately. "You're from the Ravens?" I
almost let out a laugh . "Yes , the Ravens , every Mafia wants you Ace . "They want you so that they can kill
you" he was almost warning me . Wait . I realised that if he was apart of the Mafia so was she . Which means
she's probably going to attack any second now that he's confessed .
She went to grab something but I slit her throat fast . Kane's jaw dropped as she started screaming in pain
watching his wife slowly bleed out, on the floor , infront of him . I lifted up her shirt to reveal her back
shoulder and there it was , the mark of the Ravens. He sobbed while pulling at his ties .
"You tried to get her to kill me, that wasn't very nice" I pouted at him evilly , feeling no remorse .
I left the room with him barely able to speak . "The greatest pain is loosing someone you can't replace" I
uttered to Ice , handing him the knife . "Did you kill her?" Dante asked me . "Of course" I scoffed , rolling my
eyes at him.
Dante looked a little shocked , not being able to hide his widened eyes . "They plotted against us , that's
treason" I grumbled at Dante , defending my reasoning while getting ready to go speak to another prisoner .

My break is over . It wasn't long but it was needed :)

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Ace's POV:
I was writing in my journal after killing the woman to get some things off my mind .
7/12/30
Today I killed a woman . She wasn't like every other ordinary woman but she was a women nonetheless .
She even tried to plot with her husband to kill me , probably for money so that they could attempt to get
out of their drug debt more than likely .
But a lot of people don't know that once you're in the Mafia , there's no way out . And the only way out is
to be hunted forever . I was born into this lifestyle so I had no choice . I had to grow and adapt to live in
this environment and just to survive. I thrive because I feel nothing . Well ..... felt . Past tense .
I was hesitant to kill the woman today. Very hesitant . I didn't show it though , I'm not really good at
showing emotion anyways. I think I was hesitant because I keep thinking 'what if it was Sofia' . What if
Sofia is in that exact same position. What if she gets kidnapped by a person like me or Haze . We would
kill her with no second thought .
So , I hesitated ever so slightly. And it almost killed me . I almost died because I was going to be good for
once and spare the wife , to try and change . For my girl . But that didn't work . Maybe if I keep trying ,
eventually I'll just become naturally good at being kind . I want to become good for her. She's my light
and I don't want to infect her with darkness .
I want to grow to become a better man for our future kids . I want to be worthy enough to be the father of
her kids . Without her I have no purpose , no home , nothing . Im falling for her and it's scary . It's scary
how much control she has over me . I'd do anything for her , even give my own life . It worries me because
I don't know if she feels the same .
I desperately want her to . I know the effects I have over her , but that's physical. I want something
emotional for once . Someone I can lean on when times get tough and for her to trust me to protect and
love her like I want to .
I'm not seeing people as objects anymore and that's thanks to her .
It scares me because if she heard even half of the things I've done , she would think I'm a monster .
Especially if she seen me doing it to people . Burning them until their bones turn black . Breaking bones
and letting them heal only to break them again .
I'm afraid my past will catch up and destroy us . Everyone in the Mafia business wants me dead. Firstly
for killing their men , and secondly because I own the biggest Mafia in the world .
My father made it impossible for me to be kind to anyone . He made me selfish and cruel . But she's
undoing what he did . She's taking the bad parts and making them good . Sofia's changing my world . ~
Ace .
I closed my journal and slipped it back under my pillow. I sighed releasing all my built up tension and anger
. I can't wait to go home . Hopefully she's not asleep by the time I get home. I still have a few more people to
talk to .

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I got off my bed with a groan and walked back into the base .
As I was walking down the hall , Dante found me . "Raul Diaz is now the official leader of his Mafia" Dante
informed me , reading off of a sheet . Sofia's brother took over their families Mafia . "Atleast that bastard
won't be able to hurt her anymore" I spoke angrily just thinking about Sofia's father .
"Ace , we really need to have your mothers funeral" Dante suggested to me , trying to persuade me . "No" I
snapped instantly at him . "Her body is in the morgue and it's been there for ages" Dante sighed hinting for me
to do something about it.
"Fine , tomorrow" I rolled my eyes. "Tomorrow?" Dante said shocked . "Yeah , it's the only day I have off" I
growled angrily because I wanted to spend it with Sofia . "Ok then , tomorrow it is" Dante nodded agreeing
with me. "What's tomorrow" Ice asked walking by . "Ace's mom's funeral" Dante uttered writing down things
on his notepad while strolling down the hall next to me . "I'll get the word out" Ice gave Dante a thumbs up
continuing to walk in the opposite direction . Dante gave him a thumbs up in response .
"Are you allowing your father to come?" Dante asked not even realising what he had just said. I grabbed
Dante's throat and squeezed my hand . "Do you think I'd let that fucking murder come to her funeral" I spat at
Dante who grabbed my wrist to try and break my grip on his throat . "I didn't think" Dante struggled to say . I
gritted my teeth before dropping him .
Dante gasped for breath as soon as I released him . "I'm sorry" he muttered , his hands resting on his knees to
hold himself up . I didn't respond because I was angry .
"Sometimes I wonder why I'm friends with you" Dante said imbetween breaths.

Omg thank you guys 100k reads , I'm so grateful

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Sofia's POV :
I sat at home on the couch , eating pizza. Ice had ordered me the pizza before he left to go help Ace . Ashton
and Ella were upstairs taking a nap and Chase and Grayson were the guest room playing video games .
Ashton strutted downstairs and came inside . He snatched a slice of my pizza so I threw him a glare. "Did
you hear?" Ashton mumbled with his mouth full of pizza . "Hear what" I blinked at him curiously. "Ace's
mom's funeral is tomorrow" he shook his head as he spoke with a sad tone . When he said that I immediately
worried about Ace .
I stood up and peaked out the window to see if his limousine had pulled up yet. I let out a sigh of
disappointment when it wasn't. "Is he okay?" I tried to ask Ashton causally . "No he's sobbing in his office"
Ashton said with a straight face . My jaw dropped and I was ready to run out the door when Ashton burst into
laughter. "That's not funny" I scowled at him. It's very funny" he chuckled , calming down .
"He's fine" Ashton brushed it off. I rolled my eyes at him. I knew he wasn't . I could feel it . I think he needs a
hug.
Ashton stood up and went back upstairs to Ella . He came down to steal a slice of my pizza , and left ? . He's
an ass . I was eating and watching greys anatomy when Ace came back in.
I looked up at him with a smile . I was still in my pajamas and I probably had pizza on my face . He blinked
at me a few times. "Do you want some pizza" I offered him . He nodded sitting next to me and taking my half
eaten slice out of my hand . "I was eating that one" I scowled at him . "It was easier to reach" the corner of
Ace's mouth twitched .
"I have to train the newbies tomorrow" Ace sighed disappointedly . "You're still going to work?" I shrieked
shockingly at him . "Of course , why wouldn't I" . "Well I was supposed to go back to nursing school
tomorrow but I'll take a day off since it's your mom's funeral" I rambled while watching the tv . "Who told
you" Ace's head turned to me , he was getting all worked up. "Ashton" I shrugged .
Ace nodded before calming down . Ace took the pizza box off my lap and rested his head on my thighs , the
rest of his body covering the couch , he was laying on his stomach with his head turned to the tv. My heart
fluttered as I watched him stare blankly at the screen . He looked exhausted. "How was your day" I asked
him . "It was shit" he groaned , pulling off his shirt to get comfortable. "Oh" I uttered sadly as I began to run
my fingers along Ace's back . It was really soothing for him because I realised he had shut his eyes .
I ran my fingers along his spine. He turned over , lying on his back now , trying desperately not to fall asleep.
"If you're tired , you should sleep" I whispered to him while running my fingers along the outline of his abs .
He gazed up at me . "No" he blinked a few times before answering. "Why not" I threw him a confused look .
"Because when I wake up I'll have to bury my mother , and I don't want to do that" he admitted , opening up
willingly which was very surprising .
"Sofia ?" Ace muttered with a slightly vulnerable tone . "Yeah" I watched my finger trace his abs not
realising what he wanted off of me. "Sofia" he asked me again . I know that vulnerability in his voice .
I stared at him. He sat up and I stood up before sitting on his lap . I watched his bright blue eyes stare into
mine , I swear I could get lost in them if I wanted to . It's like he had a spell on me and only he could break it
. When I'm around him , nothing else matters , nothing else can get my attention. It's him . It'll always be him .
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He leaned into me , hugging my waist . I held his head with one hand and wrapped my other around his neck .
I kissed the side of his forehead as he tried to bury his head into my neck . He shut his eyes , taking me in .
"You'll be okay" I ran my hands through his hair , trying to make him feel better . When he felt sad , I felt sad
.
My eyes stung with tears . My heart hurt for him . He was never shown affection by his mother because of his
father. He was forced to grow up without comfort and love . A tear rolled down my cheek as I sniffled . Ace
lifted his head off my shoulder to see why I was sniffling and noticed the tear . "Why are you crying?" He
immediately got aggressive . Not at me but what was hurting me . "It's nothing" I assured him . "Tell me" he
growled . "I just feel sad for you" I pouted at him . His eyes widened and he glanced at my tear.
He brushed the tear away with his thumb gently , like he could break me if he touched me too hard. Then he
smashed his lips onto mine , kissing me passionately but slowly so that I could keep up with him . He was
too experienced for me but I think he liked my innocence and I think I liked his experience. He broke the kiss
and forced me to lie down on the couch , pinning my hands above my head .
"I can't do this without you knowing" I squeaked as I stopped him , an eyebrow raised appearing on his
perfectly sculpted. His eyes pierced into mine , making me want to curl up into a ball . I gulped as I watched
his cold eyes stare at mine . He wasn't purposely trying to be intimidating, he just was . He radiates power
and confidence which scares me .
"I'm-" he glanced at me , getting impatient. "What is it" he eyes went from cold to soft in a matter of seconds .
"I'm not a virgin" I looked at ground , ashamed . I wasn't able to look at him while tears built up in my eyes .
He wasn't saying anything. I can already imagine the look of shock and shame in his eyes . A tear rolled
down my cheek in embarrassment.
I couldn't even look at him , if I saw the disgusted look in his eyes , it would crush me . I slept with Haze out
of anger because Ace hurt me . But it's my fault , my virginity was never that important to me until Ace told
me that I should save it for someone special.
I wiped my tears away from my face with my head hanging low until I heard Ace chuckling . I glanced up to
see him laughing , with his hand holding his heart. I frowned my eyebrows confusedly , watching him laugh .
"I thought something was actually wrong" he calmed down from laughing . "So you're not angry" I whimpered
. He stopped laughing when he realised I was upset. "Are you serious?" he gave me an unimpressed look .
"Your virginity isn't or wasn't the reason I like you , so why would I care if it's gone . Besides , you're still
tight" He whispered in my ear , almost making me jump up and run out of the room .
"8 inches" I gulped at him . He smirked proudly before licking his lips . "8 inches" he nodded with a
confident look .
"But I'm still going to kill Haze for touching my girl" He growled sending tingles through my body . I didn't
want to admit it but I loved when he was protective.

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"You can't kill him" I muttered quietly, playing with my hands . "And why's that?" He challenged me .
"Because I said so" I wanted to tease him a little , he could kill him and I wouldn't mind . "I can do what I
want" he growled playfully, pushing his forehead against mine . I pushed back .
"I'm the alpha" I tried to growl but it didn't work . I seen a smile appear on Ace's lips . I giggled while
rolling my eyes . "You can't even growl" he shoved me , making me lie on the couch . I went to sit back up
but he pushed me down again , this time pinning my arms above my head . I giggled at him making him smile.
He opened my legs and lay on top of me . "You're heavy" I struggled to breathe . "Are you calling me fat!" He
gasped staring at me with his eyes widened . "Yes" I grinned giddily waiting for his response . "See these ,
they're pure muscle" he informed me while running his hands along his abs . "Fat" I muttered jokingly,
earning a scowl .
His scowl then turned into a pout . "No I was joking , it's muscle!" I said frantically as he started to move off
me . I seen a grin spread across his face as he pinned me down again . "See I told you" he looked me up and
down while lying on the couch . "Ace , my eyes are up here" I smirked at his realisation of what he doing .
Only to realise he didn't care . "I was imagining myself rearranging your guts" he grinned before licking his
lips .
I was not ready for his response . Heat rose to my cheeks , turning them a dark pink colour . "Is someone
embarrassed" he pouted at me , making my cheeks even hotter . "N-no" I stuttered wanting to face palm
immediately after . I shut my eyes and sighed while Ace laughed at my awkwardness . Ace brought his head
next to mine so that his mouth was inches from my ear . "Think of Haze in bed , now think of someone 10
times better , that's me" he whispered seductively, making my cheeks stay hot and my heart race . "And you'll
be under me , begging me to stop" he whispered before kissing my neck slowly .
I shut my eyes , trying to contain the butterflies in my stomach . His touch sent electricity through my body ,
making me want more . I wanted him to touch me everywhere .
It wasn't like this with Haze . Haze didn't make me crazy or make my heart race . I realise that now . I can
only imagine what Ace is like in bed . Haze got a few moans out of me , but Ace has gotten screams out girls
. Nerves shot through my body at the though . Ace probably seen me thinking because he stopped kissing my
neck . "What are you thinking about" he whispered so quietly that it almost came out as a breath; his whisper
sounded curious but slightly cheeky. "N-othing" I gulped , watching him gaze at me .
He ran his hand along my thigh and up to my stomach , stopping at my waistband . My breath hitched as he
pulled at the waistband of my trousers ever so slightly . "You're not ready yet" he teased me . "I am" I nodded
getting a half smile from him .
I felt a pool of warmth spill out from between my legs. I tried to close them but Ace's body was in the way .
He stared at me , wondering what I was doing with my legs .
His phone started to ring . "Shit" he rolled his eyes looking at the phone . "I have to take this , it's probably
about the new recruits tomorrow" Ace stood up answering his phone .
"How many recruits are there?" He asked , he sounded tired , but also like he didn't want to train them . I
imagine new recruits are quite young and giddy , I never really got to learn about this stuff in my family , my
fathers priority's was always my brothers. Anways I think he has to train them because Dante and Ice will be
P 50-1
too busy setting up his mom's funeral which he should really be doing.
"15 is a lot" Ace scoffed into the phone. "Fine and yes 3 pm is okay for the funeral" he hung up the phone .
"I don't think you should you go train the recruits tomorrow" I expressed worriedly . He gave me a confused
looked . "Cause you'll have a lot going on , I just don't want you to.......become unstable and kill one of them"
I tried to put it as nicely as I could . "I'm not going to become unstable" he rolled his eyes at me . I gave him a
look that said ; I don't believe you . "I'll be fine" he reassured me , slipping his phone back into his pocket .
"Let me come with you then" I sat with my knees pulled up to my chest and my arms wrapped around them .
"No" he said quickly . He made up his mind very quick . "Pleaseeeee" I asked in a high pitched tone . "No"
he repeated but this time he had a stern look on his face . "Pleaseeeeee" I jumped up , one hand on his veiny
arm and the other holding his hand . He looked down at me with a raised eyebrow. "I won't get hurt I promise
, although I can't promise I won't hit a girl....or guy if they try to flirt with you" I was basically begging him .
I know I had been to one of these things with Haze but I wanted to see Ace's routine training worked . "Fine"
he groaned , caving into my desires . I cheered happily while hugging him , forgetting he's not the most
affectionate person in the world . But he hugged me back which kind of shocked me to be honest . I shut my
eyes while hugging him , focusing on the smell of his cologne and the warmth of his body .
"You're always warm" I mumbled , almost drooling on him . "Yep , it's because I'm the devil" he responded .
"You're secretly an angel" I whispered at him , holding my finger against my lips , signalling that it was a
secret . "Oh yeah?" He sounded happier . "Yeah" I held him tighter .

Thank you guys for 200 k reads , it's insane how much this book is growing , I'm so grateful

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It was the next morning and Ace was getting ready to go train the newbies while I sat on his bed in a towel
and my hair also wrapped up in a towel , scribbling in his journal . I ask to draw in it don't worry , but I did
get a very serious response ; 'don't read any of the pages because it's an invasion of privacy' with a very stern
tone which I found incredibly sexy .
He tried to do his tie , but as always , he messed it up . "Come here" I waved my hand and pointed to the
edge of the bed where I was sitting comfortably. He wandered over , still trying to tie it on the way but
failing again .
"This is so fucking stupid" he snapped getting frustrated. I stood up infront of him and did his tie wit bc ease .
"See you need me" I winked teasingly at him. "Stupid fucking tie , I wear one every day of my god damn life
and I still can't tie it" he slammed his dresser shut , making me jump . He looked over at me .
I know he's a bit angry , and he has a right to be . "I'm sorry" he ran his hand through his hair , sitting on the
bed while letting out a sigh . "I just want today to be over" . "It's okay" I crawled over to him and started to
massage his back soothingly . He was really tense which was telling me that he was very stressed out . "How
many newbies are going to be there again?" I questioned him with a soft tone , trying to relax him.
"15" he responded with more of a calm tone to his voice . "You'll be okay, it's like dealing with 15 of Gray
and Chase" I giggled trying to make it better for him , but also knowing he could barely stand Chase and
Grayson as they are. "New recruits are so annoying because all they want to do is kill someone, it's just not
that easy" he rolled his eyes . "You do it with ease" I raised my eyebrows at him . He let out a snicker .
"What can I say , I'm good at what I do" .
"Okay , get out , I have to change" I shoved him slightly , while rolling off the bed . Ace huffed , standing up
and smirking . I instantly knew he didn't want to leave because he's Ace and he hasn't had sex in awhile . "I'll
turn around" he grinned cheekily and to be honest , I knew there was a big likely hood he would try
something, but I didn't mind since all I wanted to do is get dressed . "Fine , but if you turn around , I'll kick
you in the balls Ace , I'm warning you now in advance" I chirped turning away from him so that we had our
backs to eachother .
"You should say my name more". I can picture the cheeky smirk on his face while he stood with his back
facing mine . "Why?" I asked curiously as I dropped my towel . "Because it's sexy" he said with a purr sound
effect at the end of his sentence, a giggle escaping my lips. I slipped on my thong and hooked my bra. "Are
you done yet?" Ace whined sounding like a 6 year old who was stuck in a car for too long . "No, so don't turn
around" I warned him , putting on my skin tight black dress , that showed a bit of cleavage around the boob
area. I would've worn a more appropriate dress but I didn't have another black dress since Ace set this up on
such short notice .
"I can't believe we have to get ready before we go train the new recruits" I struggled to reach my zipper at
the back of my dress while talking to Ace . "It's not my fault the funeral is straight after we finish training
them , blame Ice , he made the schedule" Ace groaned , tired of waiting for me to be finished . "Don't use that
tone with me , Mister. You took like two hours to get one strand of your hair to stay in place" I scolded him
playfully.
"Ace can you-" I turned around to see that he staring at me . He gave me a mischievous smile . "How long
have you been turned around" I asked him , my expression blank. "Almost the entire time" he beamed happily
. "I kept complaining because I knew if I didn't you would turn around to check if I was still turned around"
P 51-1
he grinned proudly at himself .
I sighed defeatedly. "Can you at least help me zip up my dress" I asked him , rolling my eyes . I heard his
heavy footsteps approach me and stop when he was right behind me . He ran his finger from the top of my
neck where the last bit of skin was exposed, down to my zipper before grabbing it and zipping it up.
He grabbed my hips and pulled me closer to him so that our heads were next to eachother . I could feel his
growing erection against my ass . I squirmed slightly but he kept his hands on my hips firmly so that I couldn't
move .
"Don't roll your eyes at me" he snarled quietly inches away from my ear , making the hair on the back of my
neck stand up . "I'm the Mafia Boss , I do what I want" he whispered in my ear , his eyes scanning my body . I
froze , blinking a few times . I felt like I was under his spell ; I wanted him . I wanted him badly . But we had
to go to the funeral and we didn't have time to mess around......although I wish we did.
I finally worked up enough courage to move . "Yet I have all the power" I grinded my ass against him ,
catching him off guard . His eyebrows raised as his hands swayed with my ass . "You're the Mafia boss" I
turned around . "But I'm the Mafia Queen" I raised my eyebrows at him just before I started walking out . I
got to see the shock on his face before I left . Ace doesn't usually get shocked , and when he does , it's hard
tell , but I could tell because he was speechless .

P 51-2
I sat downstairs, scrolling through my phone , waiting for Ace to come down . He had been up there awhile
now . I sat with my legs crossed over one another and big my nails ; I was nervous that we would be late to
meet the new recruits.
Ace finally strutted in , wearing his all black suit . I know he's wearing it to a funeral but shit , he looks
really sexy in it .
"Chase wants to take me to a dance" I squeaked , sitting on the chair . "Chase , Chase ?" Ace raised his
eyebrow, turning to me as he lit his cigarette at the back door . "Yes 15 year old Chase" I beamed at him .
Ace puffed at his cigarette before blowing out the smoke . "He wants to take my girl to his prom" Ace said
possessively. "Come onnn Ace , he's 15 , he's not going to fall in love with me" I whined , sticking up for
Chase because I really didn't want him to be the only kid without a date .
Ace let out a sigh . "Fine , but he's not allowed dance with you" Ace pointed his two fingers at me warningly
. "Ok" I nodded , knowing I was probably going to dance with Chase anyways because who doesn't dance at
dance ? .
"Ok babygirl, let's go" Ace muttered quickly holding out his hand . I took his hand and we walked out the
door . He helped me into the car before hopping into the drivers side . I gazed at the veins on his arms that
popped when he grabbed the wheel of the car , and how he held his cigarette in his mouth with ease .
"Are you sure you'll be okay today?" I asked him , giving him puppy eyes on purpose to try and get a honest
answer out of him . "I'll be fine" he nodded , but keeping his face void of emotion . I could tell he probably
had to stop smiling to stop feeling anything, I just hope him liking me hasn't gone away today too.
I don't know why everyone is so scared of Ace or calls him the devil . Maybe it's because I know he's
actually an angel in disguise, even if he doesn't admit it . His wings may have been clipped by his father , but
I'll help them grow and teach him how to fly .
The rest of the car ride was silent , until we reached outside of the training grounds . "Sofia" Ace stopped me
from getting out of the car . I looked at him , giving him my attention. "Yes?" I asked innocently. "You're my
girlfriend" he stated while getting out of the car . I followed his lead and also got out of the car . "Okay , but
why the sudden commitment ?" I worried . "Because I don't want anyone of these little shits hitting on you ,
and if they do , you can now tell them I'm your boyfriend" he rambled possessively, not realising how over
protective he was being . "Plus , who doesn't want the most beautiful girl to be his girlfriend" Ace winked at
me before entering the highly secured building . I walked behind him , he was holding my hand , making sure
no one took me from him .
"Here Sofia , place your hand on this scan" Ace held out his hand , to take mine . I gave him my hand and he
placed it on the scanner , which was very cold to touch and slightly burned when it scanned your hand for
some reason . "That hurt" I mumbled with a pout . "Fix the burning" Ace snarled at one of his workers before
examining my hand . "You're hands fine , but just to be sure you better keep it in mine , just to be on the safe
side" he smirked cheekily ; I knew he just wanted to hold my hand .
All I could hear was the taps of our feet hitting the heavy metal floor but the walls were made out of stone .
"If these kids are rude , I'm going to kick the shit out them" Ace rolled his eyes ; he was already frustrated
with the new recruits and he hadn't even met them yet .

P 52-1
"Be easy on them , they're newbies" I shoved him playfully earning a scowl then a smile . "Are Ashton and
Ella and stuff at the funeral already ?" I questioned him curiously. I was bored from all this walking . "Put
your hand on the scanner again" Ace said demandingly . It must hurt a lot more for other people considering I
can barely feel pain at this point .
I gently placed my hand on the scanner and it didn't burn this time . I think it only hurt the first time because it
was imprinting my hand into the system . Ace kept walking , constantly looking back every two minutes to
make sure I was still behind him.
We reached this glass door that slid open , leading us into the new recruits. They were all talking and getting
to know eachother. I guess the plus side of the Mafia is that you can make some really loyal friends . Or some
really unworthy friends , who don't deserve your friendship . Either way you'll make both and for me the
loyal out weigh the unworthy . Look at Ace for example. Ace has been loyal to me ever since he realised he
felt something for me . He may have lied a few times but that due to his insecurities that he couldn't keep me
safe .
I'd rather get beaten 100 times repeatedly by my father just to spend a moment with Ace and that's the beauty
of it . It's beautiful being around someone loyal who only wants the best for you .
All the recruits stared at us as we walked toward them . Ace kept his head forward , showing no emotion, but
I could feel his hand searching for mine . He found it and grabbed it , intertwining our fingers .
"Boss" the all nodded in sync . "Atleast you have some manners" Ace remarked with a hint of anger in the
way he said it . I could already tell he despised this . The recruits were basically shaking. One of them raised
their hands to ask a question . "What" Ace snarled . He was so mean . I kinda liked it . It was a girl .
"Are you training us today" she squeaked almost cowering away from him, obviously afraid of Ace . "Yes I
will be , I'll be pushing you to see if you are worthy to be in my Mafia" Ace strolled down the line of recruits
, showing them his dominance that was radiating off him.
He stood tall and confident. He knew he was attractive and sometimes I hated him for it . I stood in the
corner watching him train them .
"Who's that?" I heard one of the recruits chirp . "It's just one of his whores , Ace Hernandez doesn't date" one
of them scoffed while rolling his eyes at the other recruit wondering how he didn't know that . "But she's
actually pretty" the recruit responded nicely . "Ryan , Mafia leaders don't stay loyal to their wives , it's just a
known fact, he doesn't even kiss her" the little shit shrugged like I was object and not a human being with
feelings .
"Hey!" I called out to the two boys . They both turned me and their cheeks became flushed , wondering if I
had heard what they said . "Do you want to ask Ace if I'm a whore?" I blinked at them , folding my arms as I
stared them down . "No" Ryan chirped quietly . "I will" the second recruit said . "Brian you're crazy!" Ryan
gasped almost dying on the spot . "What , she's a slut , I'm a recruit" Brian smiled proudly .
"Boss" Brian called out , catching Ace's attention . Ace raised his eyebrow to signal he wanted a response .
"That's your slut right?" He snickered slightly while speaking . I seen Ace gaze at me from across the room .
He clenched his jaw while looking at me . I gave him a soft smile to calm him down .

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"Who told you that" Ace snarled at him , scaring Brian .

Thank you guys so much for 300k reads . It's actually insane how many people are reading this book rn
, if you're one of them , thank you

P 52-3
"I just assumed because-" Ace grabbed Brian by the throat to stop him from speaking . "You would want to
be very careful how you word this next line" Ace spat angrily at Brian who was basically still a child . He
was 16 , not a lot older than Grayson and Chase .
"I have to go help him now" I sighed while starting to stroll slowly over to Ace .
"What if I told you she wasn't a slut?" Ace growled frustratedly . "I-" the kid struggled to get air under Ace's
grip . He clawed at Ace's hand to be let free while all the other recruits watched in shock ; I seen the boys
face starting to turn blue. "Well guess what , she's not and she's the only girl I'm with" Ace hissed viciously
trying not to loose control, but I think he already lost it .
Ace grimaced at the boy in disgust of his assumption . "I'm sorry" he tried to squeal , the veins in his neck
popping . Ace was so angry at the recruit that he didn't notice I was right next to him . I placed my hand on
Ace's hand which was wrapped around the boys throat . Ace's trance of anger was broken by my touch . He
released the kid from his grip and the recruits rushed over to help their friend .
They pulled him away from Ace . "Thank you but he's 16" I giggled at Ace who gazed at me longingly . "I
swear , I could've killed him for say that" Ace gritted his teeth , staring like a hawk at the boy who could
barely stand now . "I think you should sit down . Let me train them for awhile" I fixed Ace's hair while
speaking to him . His face turned back to me . "Okay" he nodded agreeing with me . "I'll teach them how to
throw knives since you know .... I am better at it than you" I smirked moving my hand from his hair down to
his cheek before winking at him and walking over to the knife throwing board .
I picked up the throwing knives and threw them up in air a few times to get used to the balanced weight. They
were cold to the touch , exactly why I liked them .
"Okay , gather around" I demanded . They all made a circle around me . "These are balanced throwing knives
aka my favourite weapon" I stated as ran my finger along the edge . "I could throw these with my eyes closed
they're that simple to use after practice" I flung the knife over my shoulder and hit the board , close to the
bullseye .
My eyes met Aces from across the room . He gave me nod to show me that he was impressed by my knife
skills . "Now if you want knives to be your specialty, stay , if not , stand over there and talk but do not
disturb Ace" I added a scowl to the end of sentence. Most of them strolled away and started talking and I was
left with a small girl , a tall boy and another boy . "What are your names?" I asked them . "Jack" the tall boy
with decently long hair responded . "Griffin" the other boy with blonde hair and braces introduced himself .
"Cassie" the small girl spoke up . "Alright , I'm Sofia and no I'm not a slut" I rolled my eyes at them . They
smiled and snickered , while looking around observing the big hall .
Being 16 and wanting to join the Mafia must be tough , especially if you're not born into it. You get no
special treatment and have to everything the hard way .
I handed them each three blades . "You release the blade when you're arm is almost fully extended, the
keyword being almost" I pointed my knife at them . "This is how you hold it" i showed them how my fingers
wrapped around the blade. "And then , you throw" I flung the blade at the board , hitting the bullseye. "You
want the blade to fly through the air with ease , like its a frisbee almost" I explained , examining Ace's
blades.

P 53-1
I loved throwing blades . It was beautiful how deadly but small they are . If I didn't want to be a star , I'd
want to be a blade. Small but dangerous.
"Ok start throwing" I stated spinning my finger in a circle motion before walking towards Ace who sat on a
chair near the corner with his eyes shut and his arms folded . He was trying to relax but I seen that his fists
were clenched which means that his attempt was failing .
I stood in front of him; My arms folded as well , mimicking his body language. Didn't I read something that
said if you're in love with someone you tend to cop- I pushed the thought out of my mind , refusing to deal
with my feelings at the moment .
He opened his eyes . "You're knifes are shit" I threw it gently at him . He caught it and examined it . "They're
fine" he squinted his eyes to focus on the edge of the blade to see if anything was damaged . "They're not
equally balanced" I retorted ; Ace just gave me a confused stare . "They're only training blades" Ace chucked
the blade to the side . I shot him an unimpressed look . He raised his eyebrows at me questioning why he was
getting stared at . "They're training blades , you're giving your newbies unbalanced training blades. If you
train them with unbalanced blades , when they get balanced blades , they won't know how to use them" I
scolded him . How did he not know this .
"Someone's feisty" his expression was blank and his eyes , empty. I could tell he really didn't care . I huffed
frustratedly before walking back over to the recruits. "Okay , you guys aren't even hitting the board so I'm
going to bring them closer" I said , clicking the boards three places closer . It's not their fault their not hitting
the board . It's too far away for beginners and Ace doesn't realise that because the man is amazing at
everything he does . That's why he can't teach things , it just comes naturally to him where as for these
recruits , they need to be taught properly and be shown with ease .
"I know it's supposed to feel like it's gliding through the air but it doesn't for me" the small girl spoke up .
"That's okay , it felt like that for me when I first started , it'll just take you a little longer to learn" I reassured
her .
A few minutes had passed and I had dismissed the knife throwing for today . I'm going to convince Ace to let
me teach them . They need a knife thrower as an instructor .
"Hey" Cassie the little girl from the knife throwing came over to me . "Who said you could talk to us" Ace
snarled causing her to jump in fear . "Don't be mean" I giggled rubbing my hand through his hair . "I'll be
back in five minutes, don't miss me too much" I winked , Ace threw me the slightest smile .
"Alright shootings next" I heard Ace say before I left the room with the girl . "What did you want to talk
about ?" I asked her with a serious tone . I may be nice , but I don't like pulled away from Ace .
Different members of Ace's Mafia walked by , eyeing us up . By us I mean me . "How do I get a guy like
Ace?" She asked with a worried expression. I immediately erupted into laughter and she just glanced at me
and the floor repeatedly. "You want someone like Ace?" I asked her shocked , trying to calm myself down . I
was being mean . "Yeah , I want a Mafia leader" she spoke with a weak voice . I kind of felt bad now .
"I'm going to be honest Cassie , I don't think you'll ever find a Mafia leader like Ace . Most Mafia leaders get
married and then cheat on their wives continuously because they can . And if you're not their wife , you're the
girl he's using to cheat . I got lucky with Ace , he just happened to like me but most men will just use you for
P 53-2
their pleasure and then leave or kick you out . I'm only telling you this because I know you didn't grow up in
the Mafia" I sighed regretfully. I didn't want to have to break her heart but it's the best way to keep her safe .

P 53-3
Cassie and I wandered back into the training area where Ace was yelling at a kid because they stepped on
his foot.
But as soon as Ace saw me enter the room, he walked over to me, leaving the recruits to their shooting
practice. "I hate training recruits" Ace barked so that the newbies could hear him. "Calm down Ace" I spoke
calmly as I directed him over to the chair to sit down. "Is this the only chair in the room?" I was scanning the
room when Ace pulled me onto his lap. "Seriously?" I questioned him, raising my eyebrow. "Gotta let them
know what's mine" he grinned proudly.
He had his head resting on my shoulder as I watched the recruits train; none of them really stuck out yet with
their skill. "When can we go?" I murmured in his ear, becoming bored very fast. "Now" he stood up while
making sure I didn't fall. "Alright, go home" Ace roared across the room at the newbies who basically
sprinted out as soon as they got the opportunity to leave.
Ace took his hand in mine. "Let's go to the funeral" he rolled his eyes which I wasn't expecting. I guess he
wanted today to end as quickly as possible but it must've been going slow for him.
—————————
We arrived at the church, on time. "What are you doing here? You've still got a half an hour left with the
recruits" Ice questioned us. "Ace is in a bad mood so we left early before he decided to kill them all" I
nodded frantically, a scowl appearing on Ace's face.
We made our way into the church, quickly deciding to sit up at the top. I gawked back at the rows full of
people, dressed in all black. Ace's father was not among them.......thankfully. There was so many rows that
were full and people were still flooding into the church. Ace sat next to me. He was stiff like he couldn't
move; My guess is that he had to be as cold as ice right now.
Coincidentally Ice pottered in and sat next Ace right as I thought that.
"This is a lot of people" I whispered quietly due to the fact that no one talking and the only noise you could
hear was cries of mourning people or the shuffling of feet. Ace gazed into my eyes. "There's a lot of Mafia
Men in here, stay close to me Sofia" he warned me. We are burying his mother and he is worrying about me.
"Stop worrying about me, I'll be fine" I judged him playfully, hoping to cheer him up slightly. But nothing, not
even a blink. He was so empty which I couldn't blame him for being. Maybe this was my first glance into the
Ace that everyone saw. Cold and Lifeless.
I played with my hands as the ceremony started due to nerves. "We are here today to honour, our dearly
beloved Denice Hernandez. She was a mother, a daughter, a friend and a warrior".
Ace's hand grabbed mine. At first I thought it was because I was playing with them but when I glanced at him,
he had his eyes shut tightly. I realised he was holding onto me for support, security, comfort. Our fingers
interlocked as I squeezed his hand to give him a bit of reassurance that it would be alright.
"She will live on in our hearts. She has left behind many amazing people including her son Ace, who was the
most precious thing she ever had" .

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My heart clenched at those words. I wanted break something or hurt someone for him so I can only imagine
all the feelings he is fighting off right now. He squeezed my hand tighter as he stared straight ahead blankly. I
knew my Ace was still in there, currently hiding from the pain beneath a mask. He couldn't let himself seem
weak because that would make him less of a threat.
I watched his jaw clench as he stared at the coffin. I was afraid he would crack under the pressure. I had to
break away from my thoughts of Ace and also watch the coffin like he was. I feel like if his dad would've let
his mom comfort him when he cried or got hurt, that maybe he wouldn't be so damaged now. But I liked Ace
now; flaws and all.
I couldn't imagine Ace if he wasn't damaged goods. It'd be weird if he felt comfortable around people he
knew like a normal person would. It would be weird to see him laugh at everyone's joke instead of just blink
at them and refuse to crack a smile for their ego. I couldn't imagine him not being selfish; And I know he's
selfish but when it comes to being around me, for some reason, he's the opposite. He's funny, creative, smart,
selfless.
In a blink of an eye , people were carrying Ace's mom's coffin outside and to hearse that was waiting to take
her to the graveyard already. Ace hadn't dared to pull our hands away from each other. I knew he needed me
and I was more than okay with comforting him; even if it was just holding his hand for support.
The car ride was silent on the way to the grave yard. I glanced at Dante, Ice and Ace who all sat in the
limousine with their heads down and dull blank expressions planted on their face. Ace still had my hand and
refused to let go.
Dante was wearing a grey suit with a black tie and Ice was wearing a dark blue suit with a dark blue tie. The
seats were made of leather and the roof had a bunch of buttons on it. I clicked one and the radio began to
play, making me jump. Ace let go of my hand and wrapped his arm around my waist.
————————
The car came to a stop and I glanced over at Ace who was asleep with his head resting against the top of the
seat. I really didn't want to wake him due to the fact that he didn't sleep at all last night; but who could blame
him. "Ace" I whispered and he didn't budge. Ice and Dante got out, leaving me to wake up Ace. "Ace" I said
louder but not enough to scare him. "Ace" I gripped his shoulder, shaking him. His eyes shot open and he
grabbed my wrist, squeezing it tightly. I winced in pain which seemed to snap him out of his trance. When I
looked at him, his bright blue eyes were widened and dark and his expression was frightened.
Once he realised what he was doing, he immediately released his grip on my wrist. "I'm sorry I didn't-" I
kissed him, interrupting his sentence. I knew he was stressed out and paranoid that his father would come
back today. "It's okay" I nodded.
Thank you guys for 400k reads , it's insane to me that so many people have read my book . Ily all

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I broke the kiss . "We should probably go out" I muttered quietly . "Yeah" Ace nodded , climbing out of the
car . He took my hand and helped me out of the car . I went to pull my hand away but he didn't let me ; He
examined my wrist before planting a kiss on it . "Before you interrupted me back there , I was going to say
I'm sorry , I didn't know where I was or who you were" .
"Oh shut up" I said with a light happy tone. I seen him fight off a smile.
—————————
My eyes followed the coffin that was being lowered into the ground . Ace stood , stiff and tense as always . I
saw Ella , Ashton , Grayson and Chase in the crowd of people who were also staring at the coffin .
It was completely silent .
People started to leave but Ace just stood there staring at the ground . Ashton grabbed my attention , I waved
him away and he nodded , following his family .
Everyone had dissolved and I felt a drop of rain hit my head. Ace had his eyes closed and his fists clenched .
I touched his hand but he pulled away . "Don't touch me Sofia" he spat angrily at me . I was kind of shocked.
"Don't - touch me ... I don't think" his breathing became heavy as he struggled to say what he wanted to. "I
don't think I can keep it together if you touch me" he shouted , turning to me . I didn't move , I didn't even
make a facial expression. "Don't touch me , I don't want to be touch" he roared at me .
Rain started to suddenly pour from the sky . "She's gone and now there's no one Sofia" he shouted calming
down . "I have no one" he slowly calmed down , but I seen his eyes become glossy . He swallowed the lump
in his throat as he gazed at me . He started struggling to breathe in front of me . He bottled it up . Why didn't I
realise that he wasn't trying to ignore it , he was bottling it instead.
"I'm so tired of everything Sofia" he let his lip quiver . "I'm so tired" his voice sounded weak and fragile ; A
tear slipped out of his eye . I was speechless . I didn't know how to console him , I was never shown any
type of pity when I was at home until I met Ace . The only time I was shown was when my father announced
my engagement.
"Ace" . He stood infront of me . "You have me , you have us" I reminded him . "I'm not going to magically
disappear or run away or die . I'm right here , standing infront of you" I spoke gently .
The rain was wetting my clothes and hair . My dress became slightly baggy and my hair knotted as the rain
got heavier . "I'm here" I grabbed his face . "You're tired and grieving , you need to take time off from the
Mafia. Let Ice or Dante take over for just a few days , please Ace , you're not okay mentally to go back to
work" I begged him . I would get on my knees and beg if I had to . The only warmth I had in this freezing rain
was my hands against Ace's face . It was wet but warm . He stared at me weakly . "I've got you?" He asked .
"You've always had me" I smiled slightly , trying to fight off the quiver that wanted to shake my lip .
"She was the only person who wanted to show me any sympathy after what my father put me through" Ace
sounded hurt and I don't blame him . "And I don't even remember what my last words were to her" He shook
his head , water droplets running down his face , and millions dripping from the strands of his hair on the
front of his face . The sides of Ace's haircut was tight and close to the skin , but the top was a medium length.
P 55-1
"Let me help you" I whimpered pleadingly to him . He gave me a unsure glance . He didn't want to let me get
close because I could die . Because I wasn't immortal. But neither was he .
The rain started to sting from how cold it was . I was exhausted and so was he . "We can go home . We can
order food and watch shows that make me cry and you can laugh at me because I'm crying . Let's go home" I
urged him , still holding his face in my hands . He stared at her grave and back at me . He nodded . I gave him
a soft smile . I pulled him close , hugging him tight . I had my arms around his neck and his arms were around
my waist . He buried his head into my neck as I shut my eyes . He was so warm . It's all I could focus on .
We stood silently , in that position for what felt like hours and I adored it. Not the fact that he was hurting but
more that he was vulnerable , honest . When I opened my eyes , I realised that some of the droplets were
turning to snow flakes. I gazed at the snowflakes that were suddenly all around us . I started giggling
uncontrollably and saw that Ace still had his head buried in my neck . "Ace look" I shrieked with a happy
tone .
It was cold but bearable . I saw Ace's face light up , but his cheeks were still wet from the tears . I seen a
slight smile appear on his face . "It's snowing" I cheered giddily like a child. I loved snow . I remember back
when me and my brothers would check if it had snowed outside everyday up until Christmas. When it did ,
we would hurry and get our snow boots on ; We would rush outside and have a snowball . It used to be me ,
Raul and Stefano against Diego, Marco and Javi . I remember staying outside until I couldn't feel my hands
and my nose was red and stuffy .
It's times like these I miss my brothers . They may have let my father abuse me , but they're still my brothers
and I'll always love them . They're the only family I have.
I observed Ace ; His face was pointed up to the sky with his eyes tightly shut , taking in the feeling of the
freezing cold snowflakes against his warm moderately tanned skin . But it's times like this that I'd rather be
with Ace . These peaceful moments . I get to see these glimpses of the real Ace . I get to see him when he's at
his lowest and at his highest , when he's at his weakest and his strongest . I'm not taking him for granted .
I know he's a bad a guy , and he's the devil , but to me , he is an angel.

P 55-2
I started to shiver while staring at the snow in absolute awe . I looked across to see Ace looking at me . A
smile was planted on his face as he gazed at me . "Ace" I shouted with a happy tone since he was a good
distance away from me , due to me running around .
"Sofia" he shouted back , his hands cupped around his mouth . "Tomorrow I have to go to a dance with a 15
year old , but after can we go to a skiing ?" I yelled at him with a questioning tone . "I've never skiing" he
shouted back , making my jaw drop to the ground .
"Really!" I shouted back at him . He shook his head . I widened my eyes in surprise before I smiled at him
with my head tilted slightly . He ran at me and I screamed happily , trying to sprint away . He caught up with
me in seconds . He grabbed my hips , lifting me off the ground and spinning me in the air . I laughed
uncontrollably while he spun us , with a smile plastered on his face . He slowly lowered me with his arms
around my waist now .
"We're going skiing tomorrow" I shrieked happily with a grin . "If that's what you want to do for Christmas
Eve , then we'll do it" he kissed my cheek , his tears now dry and delight taking over the sadness .
"I don't want to cut this short but can we go somewhere warm?" I asked , holding my arms while trying not to
shiver . "Oh shit , yeah" he noticed I had no jacket . He took off his tux coat off and wrapped it around me . I
slid my arms into the sleeves , but it was too big on me . The sleeves were longer than my hands .
"I know the coat is wet but the inside is pretty dry" he reassured me . "But you'll get cold" I pouted slightly, I
didn't want him to get sick because of my clumsy ass forgetting my jacket. The jacket was already warm from
his body heat . "I don't care about me" he uttered , walking towards the car . I jogged slightly catching up to
him . He grabbed my hand , intertwining our fingers . I glanced at the tattoo's on his fingers . I could barely
read the letters . I noticed the rings on his hand , he had a silver one on his middle finger of his right hand.
Ace was half Italian , his mother was from New Jersey and his father was from Italy . I don't know how they
ended up together but I'm assuming it had to do with the Mafia of course . I'd say his Italian side is more
dominant than his American .
I stumbled into the car , my hair dripping and my cheeks rosey red from the cold but I wouldn't change
anything. Snow was starting to fall so fast that the rain couldn't melt it . It was sticking to the ground . The
snow flakes floated so gently so gently in air , their only mission to reach the ground. They have one purpose
and one goal . I wish our lives were as simple as snowflakes. Our one goal , to find our soulmate . Our one
purpose to be with them .
I gawked out the window in disbelief at the beauty of the snow. How it made everything prettier. I turned to
Ace to see him admiring my body due to the dress that was basically glued to my body because it was soaked
. You could see where my hips curved more clearly now than before . Yes, my dress was skin tight but it
wasn't plastered to me like the dress is now.
————————
I struggled to get the dress off of my body . I had to peel it down past my hips and then let it just drop to the
ground . I looked through my dresser to see I had no clothes to sleep in . I found my small pajama shorts but I
couldn't find a shirt. Ace's room was right across from mine . Could I make it without anyone seeing me . I
was in my bra so they wouldn't see anything but is it worth getting a scolding off Ace ?. Yeahhh .
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I opened my door and peaked my head out to the hallway , cautious. I tiptoed across and opened Ace's door ,
closing it behind me .
I searched through Ace's dresser and found a t-shirt he didn't wear . I slipped it on and was about to leave
until the door opened . Ace stood infront of me with a beer bottle in his hand . "Why are you in here?" His
eyebrows frowned , questioning me . "This" I pointed at his shirt with a smile . Ace nodded
I didn't mind when Ace drank alcohol mainly because it relaxed him. "Do you want to come downstairs?" He
asked before I walked out . "No I think I'm just going to sleep" I smiled at him slightly then leaving . I saw a
hint of disappointment appear on his face .
"Actually- I'll come down for a few minutes" I muttered holding my bedroom door handle . I couldn't bare to
disappoint him even slightly . "I need to ask Chase and Grayson about the dance anyways" I shrugged . I was
exhausted but I could stay downstairs for awhile longer . Plus it was only 8pm so if I went to bed now, the
chances of me waking up in the middle of the night are very likely.
Ace's t-shirt made it look like I had no shorts on underneath it due to it being so baggy. It smelled like his
musky cologne which I adored . I was praying that I didn't have nightmare tonight since I was exhausted .
I sank into the chair letting all my worries fade away; Ace sitting across from me . Dante, Ice, Ashton, Chase,
Ella and Grayson were all sitting on the couches around me. They were all chatting when Ace spoke up after
sitting silently for a few minutes, taking sips out his beer bottle . All the guys had beers except Chase and
Grayson of course , and Ella was drinking wine .
"So Chase , I heard you wanted to take my girl to prom?" Ace asked with questionable face . I couldn't tell if
he was angry, overprotective or ok with it . I think he was all three . "Yeah" Chase replied loudly. He wasn't
afraid to admit it .
"So what time does the dance start at ?" Ace asked curiously. "2pm" Chase took out his phone , obviously not
wanting to speak about it anymore . I seen Ace clench his jaw . He didn't like being ignored and I don't think
he definitely wasn't used to it. "Put down your phone Chase" Ashton scolded Chase , snatching his phone
from his hands . Grayson just sat in the corner , not paying attention to anything in the room.
"What time will you have her back by ?" Ace questioned him with a stern tone . "6pm at the latest" .

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"That means I can book our log cabin at 8" Ace stated to me . "We're staying in a cabin" I gasped excitedly
from the corner of the room . I think I'm secretly a 3 year old in a 17 year olds body . It's the first time I've
spoken since I came down here. "Yeah" Ace said with a happy tone but no smile . I can't expect him to smile
at me all the time . He's only getting used to smiling around me let alone around his friends that probably see
him smile , only when he's drunk .
Then again he did have a beer in his hand .
"Sofia , do you want something to drink?" Ice asked . I didn't even know he acknowledged me when I sat in
the room . "Yeah please" I nodded . "See Ace , she has manner" Ice shoved the side of Ace's head playfully
while walking past to get me a drink . "Be careful, she's a lightweight" Ace yelled into the kitchen warningly
. I shot Ace a sharp and harsh glare . "What it's true" Ace shrugged .
"Sofia what colour is your dress?" Chase uttered , taking his phone back off his dad . "Black" I responded
hesitantly . I was afraid that Ace would try and pick on him again but instead he took a sip of his beer and
shut his eyes .
Ice came back in with Coke mixed with vodka . "I told you not to give her anything strong" Ace hissed at him
, being protective of me . "She's a big girl Ace , she can handle it" Ice rolled his eyes , handing me the cup . I
took a small gulp and it burned my throat slightly but I didn't let Ace notice simply because he'd worry about
me drinking it . I took small sips from the plastic cup . I seen Chase and Grayson talking and laughing. I think
this was the first time I had witnessed them getting along .
"Sofiaaaaa" a drunk Ella called out to me . I turned to her , giving her my attention. "Come.... sit" she patted
the empty sofa beside her . I glanced at Ace who was talking with Dante and Ice , probably about business
because it's all he does. "Come on , I won't bite I promise" she grinned with her teeth . I stood up hesitantly
and walked over to her . The wooden floorboards were pretty creaky .
I didn't really like being around people when they were drunk because it reminded me too much of my father .
Why would I want to be around people who were drunk when I had to deal with an alcoholic at home . An
abusive alcoholic.
"How did you meet Ace?" I asked her with a soft tone . "Our families were friends. We seen that Ace had a
lot of pressure on him when he was 16 so we became friends with his father to keep an eye on him , to make
sure he didn't crumble under the pressure , and he didn't" Ella rambled while drunk . Ace caught my eye
while Ella continued to ramble about him. He looked me up and down like I was a meal , ready to be eaten .
I have only seen Ace drunk once before , and he was funny when he was drunk . But this time he's .... more
aggressive. And it scared me .
I broke eye contact with him , changing my glance to the floor . I saw him turn his attention back to Ice and
Dante who were arguing about if pizza was better than burgers ?.
Grayson came down and sat on the other side of me . "She talks a lot when she's drunk" Grayson rolled his
eyes . "So what age are you ?" I asked him . "I'm 15 turning 16 next month . Chase has only gone 15" Grayson
explained . "Are you and Chase friends ?" I questioned him . I was genuinely curious to know his answer
because they constantly argue with eachother . I think I hit a nerve with Grayson because he didn't respond .
His voice was decently deep for his age.

P 57-1
"We um ..... we were best friends" He smiles slightly at the thought of Chase and him when they were
younger. "We would even sleep in the same bed sometimes when we were 3" he laughed lightly . "But then
we got older , and Chase.....well , Chase only got kinder and smarter . He's passing all his classes with ease
and I'm proud of him you know . I don't hate him". There was a silent pause for a brief moment.
"But I got older and all I got was angrier . I couldn't pass the easiest class if I tried so I don't . I have all these
built up emotions and for some reason they keep wanting to explode when I'm around him specifically"
Grayson shook his head .
"I don't mean to hurt him , but I can't control it" he shut his eyes regretfully. "You know what I think you
are...... , and don't get angry at me . I think you're jealous of Chase" I uttered , not wanting him to feel like I'm
degrading him by saying that . He scowled at me before saying "why would I be jealous of him , his mom is
some whore who left him at our fathers doorstep" . The whole room fell silent . Grayson slapped his hand to
mouth in shock of what he just said . My jaw was open slightly and Chase just blinked at Grayson .
"You didn't just say that" Chase looked heartbroken. "I'm sorry , I didn't-" Chase jogged out of the room
leaving Grayson's sentence unfinished , I couldn't help but feel partly responsible. I made him angry which
caused him to burst . Ace's stare met mine . He was probably wondering what I did . "Grayson Carter you
did not just say that about your brother" Ella gawked in absolute shock . Grayson pulled at his hair angrily .
"Fuck this" he yelled storming out .
All the attention turned towards me . "What did you do Sofia" Dante glared at me . "Leave her alone Dante"
Ace growled , hitting him over the back of the head . I didn't mean to make him upset or angry .
Ella and Ashton just looked wide eyed at my direction but I was too busy playing with my hands. I got up and
left because I felt uncomfortable with everyone's eyes on me .
I took a deep breath as I stood in the bathroom , look in the mirror . That was intense . I rolled my eyes and
waited a few minutes .

An: sorry for the later update guys , I had jiujitsu training.

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A knock on the door startled me .
"Hey Sofia , it's Ice , I was checking up on you to see if you were okay" .
Ice has never willingly checked up on me before . "Did Ace send you?" I asked sitting on the toilet , with the
cover for the seat down so that it was holding me up . I wasn't upset or anything , I needed at breather .
I opened the bathroom door . "I'm fine" I spoke with a happy tone . "I just needed to get away from everyone"
I sighed walking out of the bathroom and into the kitchen . I jumped up onto one of Ace's high chairs in his
kitchen . Ice just stood there , awkwardly.
"Ice you can go back inside , I'm ok" I laughed . "I know , but I want to get to know you , I want to get to
know why Ace is so obsessed with you" . "I don't mean that in a bad way , I just don't understand. He's been
with hundreds of girls and he chooses you , why?" .
Ice had a good point . Why does he like me .
I gulped at Ice's questions because I didn't really know how to answer that. "You'll have to ask him , I don't
even like me" I uttered, staring at the floor . Ice let out a long groan , staring at me and rolling his eyes .
"Would you just shut up , you're gorgeous, you're kind , you care . I just wanted to see what you'd answer and
congrats , you passed selfless check" he sounded angry .
"Okayyy then" I smiled . I realised I had left my drink inside. "I'm going to get my drink" I grinned hopping
down from the table . Ice just called me gorgeous? . That was weird.
I decided to leave my drink and go upstairs to check on Grayson . I felt bad and I couldn't leave him upset . I
tapped my knuckles against his door twice . I think this was the room he was staying in . "No" he yelled ,
throwing something at the door . "It's Sofia" I leaned against the door . He opened it slowly , a creek echoing
down the hall . "Hey" I said quietly , sealing my lips back together immediately after the word left my mouth.
"I'm so stupid" he flopped on his bed , letting out a hopeless sigh . "I'm the heir to the empire that my dad has
created and I treat people like they're objects, even my own brother" he groaned angrily , pulling a pillow
over his face . "You're holding so much anger inside you" I stared at him shocked at how a 15 year old could
be so angry . "I blame my dad" he rolled his eyes . "Him and his stupid genetics" Grayson pulled at his hair
frustratedly. He seemed to do that a lot . He should probably stop doing that unless he wants to be bald by 20
.
"How do you know your father gave the anger gene to you ?" I questioned . I was quite curious to be honest .
Apparently Ashton had anger issues too but Grayson says that he never got to see them because Ella helped
him control them . I don't think I could do that with Ace .
I don't think I could control him . He has all the control over me........but not enough to make me jump into a
fire .
Grayson explained how when he gets angry , it just bursts . It's not like a slow , rising anger . It's a sudden
burst that he doesn't feel . This was weird to listen to . He was explaining to me how he doesn't feel anger,
but still gets angry ? . I listened anyways because sometimes all we need is someone to listen . Someone who
won't judge you for what you say in the spur of the moment .
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"I fuck everything up , all the time . I'm so flawed" Grayson whined , sitting on the bed , a look of defeat
flooding his face. "I think you need to go apologise to Chase" I spoke up while Gray just sat on the bed ,
staring blankly out of the window . "He won't forgive me , I've never said anything like that about him before
, I never even thought of it , it just came out of my mouth in the spur of the moment" .
"I don't care about his mom or my mom . We're family by bond if not by blood" He ran his hand over his
forehead .
"I think you should be telling him this" I suggested , patting Grayson's shoulder . Grayson jumped up and
before he could run out , I stopped him . "You're not flawed , you just need to learn control" I smiled softly ,
getting a thumbs up in response .
He sprinted down the hall . The only reason I know he sprinted was because I could hear the thuds from his
footsteps getting faster they faded down the hall . I let out a sigh before my checking the time ; 7:45 . I
wandered into my room and lay in the bed , scrolling through my phone for awhile .
About 2 hours had passed and I think Grayson and Chase made up . I scrolled through my phone before
watching YouTube . I was getting sleepy when the door creaked open , making me jump . I shot up and stared
at the figure of a person standing at my door . It was so dark I couldn't tell who it was.
Then , out of nowhere, the figure sprinted towards me , screaming . I pulled the blankets over my head and
before I lifted them , I heard Ace erupt into laughter. My heart felt like it was going to beat out of my chest .
I grabbed the edge of the blankets and peered out from over them to see Ace who could barely breathe
because he was laughing so hard . I have never heard him laugh uncontrollably, it caused a smile to appear
on my face even though I wanted to kill him .
I smacked his arm repeatedly, knowing that it wouldn't hurt him but show him I was upset .
"You....you shit yourself" he said breathless.

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"You really scared me!" I smacked his arm again , jokingly .
He had a big grin across his face . His eyes light up when he laughs and his body becomes loose and is no
longer tense . I think it was the alcohol that was making him happy but either way I was okay with it . As long
as he had a smile on his face , that's all I cared about .
He ripped off his white shirt and put on a jersey . I watched him change , not afraid to show him I was
looking at his body . "Sofia , my eyes are up here" he pointed to his forehead . "That's your forehead" I
replied cheekily. "I meant that general area" he rolled his eyes with a smirk . He pulled down his suit
trousers with ease and grabbed a pair of his basketball shorts .
He hopped up on the bed beside me . We lay in silence for awhile , both of us lying on our backs . "Why are
you here ?" I turned over to face him . "I could ask you the same thing" he retorted . "I never wanted to go
downstairs in the first place" I played with my hands to distract myself from the guilt I was feeling . "Why do
you feel guilty?" He looked confused.
Why did I feel guilty ? . Maybe it's because everywhere I go , I cause some sort of problem . I'm a burden to
everyone and everything . It's like anywhere I go , someone dies or gets hurt and I have no control over it .
Just being alive makes me worried for Ace . I feel like I'm cursed or something. Sofia the Curse . I almost
giggled to myself after thinking that but it really wasn't funny . I just found it coincidental because it was true .
"I don't know" I sighed shortly . His hands cupped the back of his neck and his elbows pointing away from
his head. His head rested on the soft pillow . "I don't know that much about you" he uttered , out of the blue .
"Neither do I" I raised my eyebrows.
I never really had time to think about what I liked or enjoyed doing . My father limited my activities and the
only ones he would let me do , is the ones I could use as an excuse for my bruises . I was forced to do things
like boxing with my brothers and different stuff. My least favourite was definitely football . I got tackled so
many times that no one would second guess my bruises . It gave my father more freedom to beat me .
"Tell me about the things you like?" I questioned , trying to dodge what he had asked me . "I like you , you
and oh did I say you" his placid expression turned into a big grin while speaking . "What do you really like?"
.
"I like fighting" he shrugged with a blank expression. His face didn't light up when he said it . Isn't your face
supposed to light up when you talk about something you love? . "Why fighting" I asked with a confused tone
but I think I knew the answer already . "Because I get to hit people I don't like" he snickered evilly , earning a
smile from me . Yep , I knew it .
"Okay , let me ask the question again, what makes you happy" I mumbled quietly . He stayed silent for awhile
. He had to think about this one. "Honestly, I didn't have anything that made me happy...." he looked upset .
"Didn't?" I questioned his past tense. "Until I met you" he finished his sentence . I felt my heart melt and the
butterflies going crazy in my stomach .
He wasn't even touching me and he drove me insane. Ace was watching my reaction to his words closely .
He liked seeing the effect he had on me . But I think it's really sad that his father also stripped him of finding
out what he liked . I've heard that he had a really strict schedule as a child and that he didn't go to school .
Ace had to excel at everything because he had no other choice .
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"So I make you happy?" I chirped . My face probably lit up because I seen him smile ever so slightly .
"Yeah" he admitted , sounding kind of embarrassed now . "We should figure out what we like to do together"
I suggested . "I want to try archery" Ace muttered , giving us something to start with. "Oooh me too" I agreed
.
"And maybe football" he shrugged , not making up his mind just yet . "I'll pass on that one" I grumbled , the
idea making me want to curl up into a ball . "Why?" . "Because my father used to force me to play football so
that he had an excuse for the bruises when I went to school" I stared at the ceiling , trying to suppress the
memories of my aching body being repeatedly tackled and shoved by boys who were twice the size of me.
Football was after school so I'd have time to heal for a few hours if I had gotten beaten the night before . My
body got used to healing so fast that if I broke a bone , I probably wouldn't have to go to the hospital because
it could heal itself . But I'd still go to the hospital because I don't want the bone to heal wrong.
"Okay , looks like football is a no then" he mentally ticked that one off . "No , I want you to try it though" I
encouraged him to do it . I feel like he should do more 'teenager' things . He is only 18 after all but he likes to
act as if he's 30 with kids and a bad temper . Except the bad temper part is true .
"I don't want to do football if it will upset you" he groaned as he stretched on the bed . "It won't , plus I'll get
to wear your jersey's" I smiled cheerily into the blankets . "Ok ok" he sounded reluctant but it was progress.
I'm excited for the day where I can beat Ace in a sport . I will be better at a sport than him .... eventually. I
am determined.

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"What's your favourite colour ?" I asked Ace. "Hmmm , red" he responded with certainty. "Really! Red" I
spoke with shock in my voice . "Yeah , you sound surprised" he raised his eyebrows at me . "I thought it was
black" I pulled the blankets up to my neck , snuggling into them . "What's your favourite colour?" He
questioned .
"Maybe turquoise" I replied . "Turquoise?" He snickered , teasing me . "Yeah. It's a good colour" I persisted.
"What will I do about Nursing School?" I worried as I played with my hand under the blankets , changing the
subject . "What do you mean?" He looked at me with a confused face . "Well my school requires me to be in
a lot , and I haven't been in for like two weeks" I explained as best I could . "I'll talk to them" he spoke with a
reassuring tone . "Don't threaten to kill them" I warned him .
"I'll try not to".
We lay in silence for awhile . "Your brother is now officially the leader of the Diaz mafia" Ace let out like
he had been keeping it from me all day . I didn't know how to respond. Maybe because I forgot about my
fathers death due to the fact I was so worried about Ace .
"Oh" I spoke placidly . "I thought you would be happier?" He sighed . He was probably upset that he brought
it up in the first place . "I don't know" I shrugged . "I miss them ..... a lot , but there's also the fact that if I go
to see them , this time it will be them who won't want me instead my father" . Concern grew on my face as I
spoke . "It would be their loss" he smiled slightly , trying to make me feel better . I smiled back but it quickly
faded away .
"Ashton and Ella are leaving tomorrow after the dance to go home to their daughter" he muttered quietly . I
could hear music playing downstairs and people talking . "Whats their daughter's name?" I questioned while
playing with my hands . "Tara" he said before grabbing my hands . "That's a cute name" I smiled .
"Not as cute as Athena" he raised his eyebrows at me with a smirk , possibly suggesting names for our kids
in the future . I wasn't even sure if I wanted to have kids . I had never planned to have a kid but the longer I
spend with Ace , the want to have a child grows .
I think it would be cute having a bit of me and a bit of him mixed together into one human . The idea is weird
. If I did have a child I'd want a boy but it looks like Ace wants a girl . Probably so that he doesn't have to
deal with his own bad temper passed down onto his son . God , I only imagine a mini Ace . He would
definitely be a heart breaker like his father .
"I like Sage for a boy" I finally chirped , a smile growing on my face . "Sage Hernandez" Ace mumbled
slowly . "I like it" he nodded approvingly.
"Ok , go downstairs and spend time with Ashton and Ella before they leave tomorrow after the dance" I
urged , not wanting to take away from his time with them . Ace groaned before rolling off the bed and
standing up . "I'd much rather spend all my time with you" he grumbled as he walked out . I smiled at his
words .
I lay down , with a warm feeling spreading through out my body . It was happiness . He makes me happy and
no one can deny that .

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Ace and I , we're going to make it , I believe we can make it . I fell asleep with my mind on him. My
soulmate .
——————————
I slipped on my black dress that hugged my body, showing off my curves . It's probably not appropriate for a
15 year old school dance but I have nothing else to wear and I don't want to go in jeans and a shirt .
Surprisingly Ace isn't that bothered by what I wear anymore , I think he's loosening up ; very slowly .
I heard a knock on the door . "Come in" I shouted , while doing my makeup in the mirror . "Hey" Ella smiled
. "Hey" I grinned back , trying to stay focused on my mascara . "So today is our last day here" she looked sad
. "Yeah , I think I'll miss you the most" I winked playfully at her , earning a smile . "Thanks , I just came in to
see how you were doing" Ella stated . "I'm okay I guess" I shrugged carelessly .
"You don't have to go to this dance if you don't want to" . She must've heard something about the past 2
dances/ balls that I've been to. "No , it's fine , it'll make Chase happy" in order reassuringly. "Ok" she sighed
. "I'll leave you to get ready" .
I finished curling my hair . I wasn't going full out today because it's only a school dance but I put some effort
in so that I didn't embarrass Chase and Grayson . I lifted my heels off of the floor and placed them on the
vanity table . I took one of the heels and slipped it onto my foot . I did the same with the other shoe and
eventually made my way downstairs.
"Wow , you look good" Grayson winked at me before getting a death stare off of Ace . "Trying to impress the
15 year olds?" Ace questioned me with an intense look on his face . "Nope" I shook my head with my arms
folded stubbornly . "Don't lie" he growled playfully, grabbing my waist and pulling me impossibly close to
his body . "I'm not , the only person I'm trying to look good for is you" I kissed his cheek softly . "Ok then" he
nodded pecking my lips a few times before releasing me .
"Do you want me to drive you guys ?" Ace offered with a soft tone . "Please" I whispered , hugging him . I
was starting to feel nervous. I just wanted to come home as soon as possible after the dance and go skiing
with Ace .

P 60-2
We waited in the car for Chase and Grayson to get in . They both got in at the same time , arguing about
something but I was too busy playing with my hands to notice . I was bouncing my knee nervously as the
anxiety slowly grew inside me .
I didn't feel so good anymore .
The drive was long since we had to go to Chase and Grayson's school that was practically 2 hours away . I
got increasingly anxious, the closer we got. I think Ace could see my worry . He was the only one who could
read me like a book or notice my stress . I took a deep breath and let it out slowly , trying to calm down .
"You really think I'd let you go to a dance without some of my guards there?" He tried to console my stress .
A weight was lifted off my shoulder . "And Terry will be there" Ace grabbing my hand while he started to
drive.
Grayson and Chase were too into their phones to notice me and Ace .
"Nothing will happen" he reassured me as we pulled up outside the school five minutes later. "Ok" I
responded with a shakiness in my voice . Grayson and Chase hopped out . I seen Grayson greet a young
pretty girl who was wearing a emerald green dress . That's why his tie is green . Chase waited outside for me
.
"Kiss me" Ace grabbed my chin , turning my attention back to him . I pressed my lips against his , taking in
the last few moments that I had left with him until I got home . He broke the kiss and pecked my forehead. He
embraced me tightly , hugging me so that there was no distance between us ; We were one . "I promise I'll
protect you until my eyes close for the last time" he whispered in my ear as I held him in my arms . A lot of
things had changed since the last dance . A lot of things .
I looked at his face to see lipstick on his lips from where I had kissed him . A grin spread across my face
while I looked at him . "What" he asked , scowling at me defensively . "You might have a bit of lipstick on
your face" I giggled , jumping out of the car quickly , not giving him enough time to respond . I saw him try to
wipe it off but fail to get all of it . He watched me walk with Grayson and Chase. "Chase Carter" Ace yelled
from his car window . Chase turned around , showing Ace that he had his full attention. "Take care of my
girl" he yelled before driving off. Chase shook his head with a smile .
"Who is this?" I asked Grayson , referring to the girl beside him . "Her name is Zaiya , she's my date" he
smiled happily , holding her hand . They look cute together . "What's your name?" Zaiya asked curiously. "I'm
Sofia" I smiled politely , shaking her hand . "You don't look 15 , I don't mean to be rude" she giggled lightly .
"Oh yeah , that's cause she's not" Grayson laughed .
Chase walked beside me with his hands in his pockets. "It's a miracle Ace even let you take me , we may
aswell make the most of it" I made my arm hook inside of Chase's . A smile appeared on his face . Ace's
words had put me at ease . The anxiety was no longer bugging me anymore . I'm going to have a good day .
—————————
About an hour had passed of Grayson and Chase greeting people . They were really popular among their
peers . I saw Grayson talking to the 'jocks' ; If you can even call them that and Zaiya stood beside him
happily while joining in the conversation every so often .
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Chase was talking to some of his friends while I stood over at the food table. I tried some of the cake and it
wasn't that good . I'm assuming someone baked it though . I don't why I came to this dance . This is so dumb .
Why would I go to something that I almost died at last time , well to be fair the last time the room was full of
Mafia men and this one is full of kids but still .
I could feel my breath start to get heavy again as my eyes frantically scanned the room for any of Ace's men .
"Hey" someone tapped my shoulder , making me jump in fear . It was Terry . "I came over to see if you were
okay because you looked a little distressed" Terry mumbled as I calmed down . Atleast Terry was here .
That makes it better . "I'm fine now" I smiled only slightly . He could see the discomfort on my face . "You've
only got 2 hours left , you can do it" Terry cheered me on . "Thanks Terry" I ate a muffin before leaving Terry
to eat the food .
It was now the last dance of the night and i had respected Ace's wishes of not dancing with Chase . But ....
I'm going to break it now . I walked over to Chase . "Hi" he smiled . "Do you want to dance" I questioned
with a cheeky smile , knowing we were going against Ace's wishes . "But Ace said- I won't tell if you don't"
I interrupted quickly , grabbing his hand and pulling him onto the dance floor .
I glanced over to see Zaiya and Grayson slow dancing to the song . Grayson was grinning while he danced
with her . "I don't know how to dance" Chase muttered looking embarrassed. "Come on , I'll teach you" I
placed his hand on my waist but not too low because I didn't want Ace to cut off his hands . I wrapped my
arms around his neck . "How are you and Grayson?" I asked curiously. "We're okay now , he told me some
stupid line that he came up with and I forgave him . I know he didn't mean it" Chase shrugged . "He's the bad
boy out of the two of you huh?" I smiled jokingly at Chase who nodded , agreeing with my theory .
"He's had his eyes on Zaiya since the start of the year but she finally gave in when he asked her to the winter
dance" Chase explained . "Did he ask anyone else first?" I asked curiously. "No , it was only her and he got
her" Chase looked kind of sad . "I take it he's popular with the girls then?" .
"Yeah all the girls go crazy over him" Chase rolled his eyes in annoyance. "All of them?" I raised my
eyebrows surprisingly . "I mean look at him , he's the star QB who's popular and good looking . What girl
wouldn't want a guy like that?" He sighed defeatedly.
"It's okay , you'll find someone who'll like you just for you" I reassured him . "I hope she's like you" .
Guys we're about to hit a million reads and I'm in disbelief. I can't believe that this book has gotten so
big . All of you guys mean the absolute world to me . Ily you all and thank you for giving Ace
unconditional love and support . I'm so grateful for this opportunity that I got given .

P 61-2
I had just gotten home from the dance . It was okay but I almost had panic attack in the middle of it .
Ella and Ashton we're leaving tonight to get home to their daughter for Christmas. "Bye guys" I hugged the
brothers , Chase and Grayson , while they both reluctantly hugged me back . "Bye Sofia , it was pleasure
meeting you , if Ace ever hurts you , give me a call and I'll kill him for you" Ashton smiled threateningly at
Ace , but he was really just being playful. He embraced me , patting my back before taking Ella's suitcase. "I
can wheel that you know" she beamed at Ashton . "I know , but you shouldn't have to" he winked , earning a
giggle from her .
"Bye Ella , thank you for being the sister I never had" I wrapped my arms around her tightly . "We'll be back
soon" she put on a cheerful tone but I could tell she was sad . She followed Ashton outside . Chase calmly
rolled his suitcase out but when Grayson got to the door , his suitcase got stuck and he got frustrated as
always . Grayson shoved his suitcase, sending it toppling down the driveway. I know I shouldn't have
laughed but I couldn't help it . He turned back to me and shrugged carelessly . Ashton grabbed Grayson's bag
and threw it over his shoulder.
Ashton came back up when all of his family was in the car . "Listen , Ace , if you ever need me , I'm one
phone call away . No matter what it is , recruits , money , support , anything like that . "You're not going soft
on me right?" Ace squeezed Ashton in his arms . Ashton groaned from his strength . "Of course not" he
scowled at Ace before walking down the driveway and getting into the car .
I'm going to miss them , they helped me realise that Ace doesn't only have enemies but he has friends too .
"Now it's just you and me , in this big empty house for exactly an hour and half" he mumbled as he checked
his watch . I grinned at him thinking he was going to suggest something . "Let's go get our stuff packed" he
shut the door . Wow . He wasn't horny for once , that's a surprise.
————————
Ace threw our bags on the floor of the log cabin . "Do you want to light a fire?" He asked staring at the
fireplace , contemplating if he wanted to build one . "Yes" I nodded determined to get warm and take my big
heavy jacket off . He took off his jacket as if he could read my mind before he grabbed logs from outside . I
don't know why he took his jacket off if he had to go back outside ? I worry about his logic sometimes .
I turned on the lights and brought the bags into our room . Tomorrow was Christmas and I got Ace a present
but I haven't told him yet . I'm waiting till tomorrow to surprise him with it. I took the box out of my suitcase
and opened it , revealing the all black ring , that was designed as a feather that would wrap around his finger
. I took deep breath as I closed the box , hoping that he would like it .
He lit a match and threw it into the fire , blowing the flame gently waiting for it to spread and ignite the other
wooden logs . I watched how gentle he was , I think this is the only time I'll ever see him be gentle with
anything ....... except me . I know he's gentle with me because everytime he touches me , he's afraid if he's
squeezing too hard or like he's afraid of breaking me .
I sat on the couch , letting out a groan and shutting my eyes . "I'm exhausted" I murmured quietly , listening to
the crackling of the fire as he watched it grow . "It's only 8 pm" he glanced at me . He turned the lights off ,
letting the room naturally be lit up by the glow of the fire . I kept my eyes closed tightly . The couch had a
sudden dip in it , telling me that Ace was beside me . My head fell to his shoulder . I felt him lean forward
P 62-1
and grab something . Then the TV started to play . He leaned back , sinking into the chair , my head followed
his shoulder . His arm wrapped around my shoulder as he pressed his lips against my temple.
"Do you want to watch the last divergent movie?" He asked with a happy tone , knowing I'd stay awake if we
watched it . I nodded and opened my eyes slowly . I jumped up frantically before grabbing the blankets from
our bed and dragging them inside with me. I seen a smile appear on his lips before he pursed them together to
stop them . I climbed up beside him , snuggling into his chest . He was so warm , how was he so warm when
it's like -2 degree's in here?.
He scrolled through the movies and clicked onto allegiant . Throughout the movie , I slowly moved from his
chest to his lap , my body stretched out across the couch . Ace was playing with my hair while his eyes were
glued to the screen . Lying here , on his lap is the happiest place I will ever be . The sunsets in America to
the view at the top of Mount Everest will never give me the feeling that he does. The feeling of happiness ,
joy , trust ..... love .
"Tris how can you not see you're being played oh my god" he threw his arms up in the air frustratedly before
I laughed at his annoyance . "Even Four sees it" he snapped at the tv . He was really into this , it was funny to
see him so worked up over something that wasn't even real . But I guess that the fun part of movies is that at
the end of the day they aren't real and you can always make up your own ending if you don't like the original
one .
He groaned frustrated at Tris and glanced at me . I was just gazing at him with a happy look on my face . His
attention was forced back to the tv , leaving me to stare longingly at him .
Ace is not the best man , I know that . He's murdered millions with his own two hands and a million more by
command . But I can't help but only see good in him , I don't look past the bad parts but I don't block out the
good ones either . His past doesn't define him for me , the present does . I can see he is trying to be good for
me , even if he doesn't know that I know .
People say that you should be with someone who makes you a better person , but what about someone who
makes you happy , even though they're not the best person to be around . I'm not saying Ace is bad for me but
I could probably be with a guy who makes me want to be the best version of me .
Ace likes me for who I am ; the good , the bad and the broken .

P 62-2
I had fallen asleep on Ace's lap . And it was now Christmas morning .
I woke up to the smell of pancakes and the noise of pots and pans clanking together . "Shit" I heard him yell
cause a smile to spread on my face while I lay in bed . A few minutes later , Ace came in with a tray full of
breakfast and a cup of hot chocolate . I pretended to be asleep so that I didn't ruin the breakfast surprise that
he had made for me . "Fuck" he whispered to himself , walking around the room. I think he stubbed his toe off
of the bed while walking around to wake me .
"Hey" Ace shook me gently. I groaned in response. "I made pancakes" he uttered before I sat up slowly . He
rubbed my back soothingly while I tried to wake up . I glanced over at the pancakes , my eyes widened as
soon as I saw them . They looked delicious.
"I'm surprised you know how to cook" I was basically drooling down my chin as I muttered to him .
"Remember- that you don't like to be ungrateful, yes I remember" I nodded grabbing the plate . We ate
breakfast together while talking about our favourite Christmas things like movies .
"I know we didn't discuss gifts but I got you something" Ace ran his hand through his hair , he only does that
when he is nervous. He grabbed a box and handed it to me. He was nervous that I wouldn't like it . I opened
the cardboard box and it was something wrapped up with a rough material holding it in place . I took the
rough material out of the box and threw the box off to the side . I unfolded the material. Infront of me , on my
lap , five throwing knives lay on the rough material being held in place by little rubber bands attached to the
fabric .
My eyes lit up when I seen the colour . They were turquoise. A big smile instantly appeared on my face as I
admired the knives , that each one , slowly got smaller as my eyes ran across them . I touched the edge of the
knife , getting a little paper cut . The knives were really sharp , and I could see symbol on the knives . It was
an Ace symbol . It was small and simplistic but I really liked it.
I pulled one out of the rubber band that held it in place and threw up up in the air , flipping it and catching it .
"Don't worry it's balanced , I checked" he nodded with a grin . "I also changed the training blades" he
grumbled playfully , as if he was annoyed at me . I leapt into his arms , catching him off guard and probably
scaring him just a tiny bit . "Thank you" I leaned into him , forgetting about everything just for a moment . "I
might have gotten you something too" I whispered in his ear while still clinging onto him . I was now on his
lap , facing him .
I ran over to the nightstand and pulled the ring box out of the drawer . "Oh my god , you're proposing" Ace
shrieked with a gasp at the end jokingly , putting on a girls voice as best he could . Which wasn't very good
incase you were wondering . I laughed at his stupid joke and sat back on his lap , in the same position. Me
facing him . "Here" I muttered , handing him the box .
He flicked the little box open with his thumb , revealing the all black ring that was designed as a feather that
would wrap around his finger when he put it on . "Because you're my angel" I muttered with a cheesy tone .
He took the ring out and I saw a smile spread across his face . "Do you like it" I asked . "I love it" he
mumbled happily before he kissing my lips softly . I didn't dare to break the kiss . His kiss is like a drug to
me , he's my addiction .
My arms gripped his back , deepening the kiss . I couldn't get enough of him ever . I can't even think about
him because if I think about him then I'll realise I love him. Shit . Did I just ?. No I refuse to think about him
P 63-1
or how I'm falling in love with him . From the way he runs his hands through his hair when he's stressed to
his calm peaceful face when he's asleep .
Loving someone scares me....almost to death . I love my brothers but not like how I love Ace . Shit. I just did
it . I just told myself that I loved him . Fuck.
Ace broke the kiss and grabbed a piece of bacon that was beside my pancakes . He shoved the entire piece
into his mouth . "I have to say ...... I am an amazing cook" he smiled jokingly . I grabbed a piece myself to try
it since he was so cocky . I hate to say it but his cooking was amazing . My mouth made an O shape in shock
while I stared at him with my eyes widened. "This is so good" I grabbed face , being slightly dramatic , but it
was really good . I knew he could kind of cook but he's really good . I should get him to make pizza from
scratch , I bet it would be the best pizza I've ever tasted .
I noticed something in his pocket . I grabbed it only to realise soon after that it was a gun . I threw him an
unimpressed look . "I have one on me at all times" he shrugged . "But this is like our vacation, you can't carry
around a gun"I pouted at him playfully . "Anything could happen" he raised his eyebrow at me , using his
serious tone. "What if you shoot yourself?" I questioned him with a cheeky tone , hoping he wouldn't know
what to respond . "I won't" he replied blatantly with a bleak expression on his face .
"Look, I just carry it incase anyone tries to attack you" he rolled his eyes , trying to get his gun that I
continuously pulled away from him . "What about you" I spoke with an angry tone . Why only me ? . Does he
think I'm not capable of defending myself . "Because if you die , I'll have nothing left and I would much rather
die than let you die" he caught me off guard with that response. I was expecting a 'you can't defend yourself
or something but no , he's just afraid of loosing me .
I shut my eyes with a sigh . "I know you can protect yourself, I just don't want you to have to protect yourself
. I should be able to do it for you" . "Not let another finger touch your skin" he slipped his hand under my
shirt , his hands on my waist, skin to skin . My breath hitched slightly before I tried to squirm out of his grip
but his hands kept me on his lap in place .
A smirk grew on his face before he licked his lips. He knew what he was doing to me . Two can play at that
game . I leaned into his head , my mouth right next to his ear . "I want you" I whispered quietly and I
immediately felt him tense up .
"Not today" he cleared his throat . He watched as a smile appeared on my face , and his look of slight shock
became a grin while he rolled his eyes . "Okay, I have to um shower , and then we can go skiing after you
finish your breakfast" he stood up only for me to see his growing erection .
"Sofia!" He snapped scaring me . I looked up at him . "My eyes are up here" he winked at me , knowing what
I was looking at . "Your head's down there though" I smirked evilly . I saw his jaw drop before he said
"you're nastyyy" in a high pitch voice .

P 63-2
We were outside in the snow .
"Two ski's please" I asked the lady who handed us two sets of ski's with a very reluctant face.
"I can carry my own skii's Ace" I rolled my eyes at him . "I know" he replied but didn't hand them to me . I
appreciated the little stuff that he did for me like opening doors for me or checking up on me , to see if I was
okay . I've never met a guy who would do that for me .
I did have a question to ask him though as we trudged up the snowy ski slope . "I've always wondered why
you didn't let me say goodbye to my brothers the first time we met" I spoke loudly due to the wind . He stared
at me with his big snow goggles over his eyes and his heavy winter jacket on . He then turned his look back
to the snow we were walking on .
"You're still curious about that" he shook his head . I nodded frantically. He let out a hesitant sigh before he
said "I could already tell that your father abused you by the way you flinched . What angered me more was
that you had five brothers who wouldn't save you , they wouldn't put themselves in danger to protect you" .
"And Incase you're wondering I hate your brothers with every ounce of my soul for letting you be beaten for
so long" . I swear I could see the look of rage through his black goggles. But his voice showed a hint of
sadness .
"Okay" I responded . It was the only thing I could say because I knew he was right . I had 5 brothers who
were all strong and knew how to fight . Not once did they try and stop my father's beatings . They were too
selfish to put themselves in harms way for me , their little sister .
"I thought I was selfish" Ace snickered shaking his head with a smile that said he couldn't believe he found
someone more selfish than him . "But your brothers , their the most selfish people I've ever met" he snarled
angrily . "I didn't even have to talk to them to know that" . Due to all our talking , I hadn't even realised we
were at the top of the slope .
"This is a bit steep , don't you think ?" Ace gave me a worried stare . "No , you're good at everything
remember" I smiled cheekily before clicking my boots into my ski's . "You're not even going to teach me how
to ski first" He questioned angrily . "Not with that attitude" I warned him . "Fine , attitude is gone , now help
me" he demanded . I sighed before pulling him to his feet ; He almost fell over . "I already hate this" he
grumbled trying to stand still . "HOW ARE YOU STANDING SO STEADILY" he shouted frustrated causing
me to laugh .
"I don't know , practice" I shrugged trying to catch my breath from laughing at him . "You know this is only
the first slope" I giggled seeing his eyes widen . "You're lying" he didn't believe me . "Where do you think
the ski lift goes?" I grinned waiting for a reply . "I'm going to die" and as he said that , a 6 year old boy flew
down the ski slope without a problem . I pointed to the kid . "See it's easy" . He mumbled something that I
didn't hear . "See you at the bottom" I winked at Ace before pushing myself down the slope . "You're just
going-" is all I could hear until I couldn't hear him anymore . Suddenly I seen a flash and Ace was practically
flying past me . He was going straight down the slope . Maybe I should've mentioned that you have to turn .
"Ace you have to turn to slow down" I shouted at him. I think he heard me because he started turning to slow
himself down . I actually thought he was going to die and kill other people while he did it.
I eventually came to a stop while Ace waited for me at the bottom . He took his goggles off and raised his
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arms . "I still won" he cheered before loosing his balance and falling onto his ass . I burst into laughter , an
unpleased looked swamped his face . "I still won" he cheered from the ground with a big grin on his face . I
shook my head as I laughed at him . I never thought I'd see this side of Ace ; The side that actually smiles
when he's happy or the parts of him that longed to be loved . When I met that heartless man in the ballroom , I
thought he was just like my father and the opposite of everything I was looking for . I was wrong .
As I stand here watching him smile from winning a race , I realise that I was definitely and completely wrong
. He's all I need now . I don't need my brothers , or my mother or any friends to be happy . As long as I have
him I'm more than happy . I'm complete .
We went down the other slopes together so that I could make sure he didn't die on me . He almost bumped
into the same 6 year old from the last slope and the six year old told him to 'watch it' . He got really angry but
I told him that the kid was six and that he did almost bump into him . Ace just shot me an unimpressed look
before we went up to the biggest slope .
This slope was so big that even I was nervous. "Oh don't tell me you're having second guesses" he teased
playfully before pecking my lips . "No ..... not at all" I smiled but I was really unsure . All I knew was that I
wasn't going to let Ace beat me at skiing , this is my thing . We lined up together at the edge , there was a lot
less people up here than on the other two slopes .
"We have to have hot chocolate after this" Ace grumbled , rolling his eyes . "I know , my hands are freezing"
I replied shivering . "How are you cold , you have like 12 layers on" he questioned with a confused glance
before turning his attention back to the snowy slope . "Maybe because I'm secretly a reptile" I uttered with
nerves slowly building up in my stomach the longer we stood here ; It was starting to snow again .
"You ready" he smirked confidently . "Yeah , ready to beat your ass" I pushed myself down the slope . We
were going to fast and it was hard to keep control but I loved it . I loved gliding down the slope with ease
and having most of the control . I loved the speed , it made me free , almost like I could fly if I tried hard
enough . Ace was behind me , and I could tell he was focused on not falling rather than winning , but I was
determined to show him who the real champion was .

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I reached the bottom , with Ace miles behind , still skiing down the slope . I took off my helmet and laughed
hysterically. We were so dumb but I loved it .
I adored watching him ski ; How he had no fear of dying so would just shoot down the slope like there was
no tomorrow. I wish I could be more like him and not worry so much about little things .
This had been my best Christmas by far .
———————
I lay down in our bed , it was about 11 pm and we were watching a movie . John Wick. "Come outside with
me" Ace waved his hand at me , wrapping his house coat around him . "No it's toooo coldddd" I whined
curling into a ball under the blankets . "I have a surprise" he muttered knowing that it would get my attention
which it did . My head popped up and I glanced at him before standing up and following him outside .
He had a piece of paper in his hand while staring up confusedly at the stars . "What are you doing" I grinned
knowing that he knew that I loved looking at the stars . "That one" he pointed at a particularly shiny star .
"That one what ?" I muttered confusedly . He chuckled slightly before face palming his forehead . "It seemed
so much better at the time" he had an embarrassed look on his face as he spoke . "What is it" I questioned
with desperate tone . I wanted to know what he was cringing about .
"........I bought you a star" he said quickly before pursing his lips , trying to fight off a smile . He bought me a
star . "I called the star Sofia , my punch line was going to be ' because you're my star'" he erupted into
laughter at his own cheesy joke . I just blinked at him . He eventually calmed down and wondered why I
wasn't laughing . "But it was too dumb so I didn't do it" he shrugged . "So basically I just bought the star" he
shrugged glancing up at the sky and back at me .
I'm madly in love with him . It's not what he buys for me but it's the thought that goes into what he buys . He
listens to me and he notices the things I like, even if I don't tell him .

Sexual scenes ahead , you know the drill

"Sofia are you..... I interrupted him by smashing my lips onto his . I jumped in the air and he caught me , I
wrapped my legs around his waist . "I want you , now" I stared at him . But this time there was no unsure
glance or hesitant look . Instead he just nodded and carried us inside , kicking the door shut behind us .
He threw me onto the bed , ripping his shirt off as he walked towards with me , a giggle escaping my lips .
He climbed onto the bed and lay on top of me , kissing my lips passionately. He wasn't rough or harsh , he
was gentle ..... but also dominant. I had told him ages ago that it was one of my turn on's but I'm not surprised
if it just came naturally for him .
He kissed my neck , leaving a trail of hickeys from where he had kissed me . His touch made me feel like I
could run a million miles without stopping . It sent sparks of energy throughout my body , I wanted more , I
wanted all of him .
I pulled off my shirt and trousers before tugging at his waistband , waiting for him to take them off . He
kissed my lips as he pulled my thong off with my trousers . He was wasting no time . He pulled off his
trousers , letting a frustrated growl slip when he struggled to get them off . He grabbed his boxers , and
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pulled them off too , throwing them across the room . He unhooked my bra with one hand . I paused and look
at him . "What" he asked his face becoming worried . "I can't even do that" I muttered confused , thinking to
myself how he even has enough strength to do that with just his fingers .
He smashed his lips onto mine , making me want more , I craved more ; I needed more . He looked me
straight in the eyes . I was nervous, he was big ..... like really big . What if it hurt ? What if I die ? I can't die
from having sex right? . "Sofia ? Do you want to do this?" Ace asked with a sigh , thinking I didn't want to .
"I do , I'm just .... scared" I blushed . "I'll be gentle" he kissed my cheek softly before saying "do you want me
to start?" . I nodded , sure of what I wanted . I'm in love with him . I may not have told him but I am .
I pressed my lips against his as he rubbed his thumb against my clit , making me wet . He pressed the tip of
his cock against my clit , making me blush even more than I already was . My breath hitched as he shoved his
finger inside of my heat . My heart was racing as I waited for him to finally start . My craving for him started
to build up as he made me wait . He placed one of his hands on my shoulder and the other on my waist to
hold me in place .
"Gentle" he whispered to himself, almost to keep himself on a leash . I watched him stroke his dick a few
times before putting on the condom and placing his hand back on my shoulder . He kissed my neck distracting
me from him placing his tip inside me . He thrusted slightly, making me moan . I covered my mouth with my
hand . "Let them out , only I can hear you" he reassured me, pulling my hand away from my mouth . He
thrusted in more and I bit my lip , trying to adjust to his size . Our breath was heavy and slow as if we were
trying to savour this.
He started to move in and out of my heat , making my eyes water . He wasn't even all the way in. A tear
rolled down the side of my face before he brushed it away with his thumb . I clenched the edge of the bed as
he started to go faster , with more swift and confident movements .
I could feel myself about to cum but it wasn't enough . "Faster" I moaned at him , getting a nod in return . He
started to pound into me . "Moan my name" he whispered in my ear demandingly. "Ace" I moaned , releasing
without warning . I came , warmth spilling out of my heat . He grinned proudly as he continued. He went
faster to please himself . He groaned as he released , I felt a warm liquid fill the condom that was inside of
me .
He lay on top of me ,both of us panting heavily.
That was amazing .

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I lay on his chest as we talked . The only light in the room was the tv that was facing our bed .
"Teach me some Italian" I chirped , playing with his hand that rested on my waist , pulling me closer to him .
"Mm okay" he lay on his other arm . "Cagna is a female dog" . His accent changed when he spoke Italian , it
got deeper . "Cagna" I repeated , getting a nod off of Ace . "Sole is the sun" . The words just rolled off tongue
like it was effortless. "Sole" i grinned , knowing I pronounced it wrong . "Sad is triste" he rolled his R . I
attempted to copy him but he chuckled at me when I failed .
"Okay I'm bad at this" I giggled into his chest. The smile on his face slowly faded as he looked at me . He
pressed his lips against mine , grabbing my face . "Ti amo" he muttered , whilst staring at me with a soft look
in his eyes . "What does that mean" I questioned , my eyelids becoming heavy all of a sudden . "Nothing you
have to worry about" he kissed my forehead as I drifted off asleep while he watched the tv .
I woke up at about 4 am to Ace standing out on the balcony . He had left the door open so it was freezing . He
had only his boxers on while his chain hung from around his neck . He was taking in the moonlight , his eyes
were closed and his back muscles were tense . I climbed out of bed silently , and approached Ace ,my
footsteps making no noise . I hugged him from behind , catching him off guard . I felt his muscles at my touch
as he let out a deep breath .
I kissed his shoulder before leaning my head against his back . "Did I wake you?" He asked with a gentle
tone . "No" I muttered half asleep basically drooling on him . "Why are you up ?" I grumbled with my eyes
shut , taking in his scent . He had a strong ,musky ,masculine smell and I wouldn't change it for the world .
"I'm just thinking" he mumbled quietly while staring at the stars . "Thinking about what ?"I murmured falling
asleep with my arms around him ; He was like my own personal heater , my cold hands were resting on his
warm skin . I don't know how he was still warm standing outside in freezing weather .
I could see the condensation of our breath in the air due to the coldness . "I'm thinking about the Mafia and if
they need my help, I mean I know they don't , but I constantly worry about it and if I'm doing a good enough
job to keep the recruits in check" Ace rambled as he shook his head defeatedly as if it was bad thing to care
about the Mafia . He ran his hand through his hair stressfully from worrying about the Mafia so much . "You
care , that more than what my father ever did for our Mafia" I scoffed at him . I can't believe he thinks he's not
doing a good job , I think he's a great leader and boss , even though he can be an asshole sometimes .
"Yeah" he sighed , agreeing with me . "You need sleep , come on" I tugged his arm , pulling him back to bed
with me . "I'm only going to bed because you're going to be in it" he grinned with a cheeky smile . "I'm okay
with that" I smiled softly at him , pulling the blankets across my body . He lay next to me before I snuggled up
close to him , one of my legs stretched across his body . I was playing with his hands while he shut his eyes ,
trying to sleep for me . I think if I wasn't here , he wouldn't sleep . He would probably sit around , maybe
scribble in his journal for awhile .
"Your hand is so tough" I chirped with a soft tone, running my finger over the calloused skin on his palm.
"Yeah" he let out a deep breath . "It's probably from holding guns" Ace uttered admittedly, sounding
exhausted. He may not know it yet but I know he doesn't like to kill people. The way he reacts after killing
someone isn't happy it's just.....numb , he just became numb to feeling guilt or remorse for things that did and
the people he killed. "Ace , how did you feel when you first killed someone?" My eyebrows frowned
curiously as I continued to play with his hand , lying on his chest .
"My first kill" he huffed like he was trying to remember. But the way his body tensed when I mentioned it ,
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told me that he remembered. "Fuck" he sighed , rubbing his forehead stressfully. "It's okay , you don't have to
talk about it" my fingers ran along the veins that went up Ace's arm . "No , it's you . I can tell you ; I trust you
" he took a deep breath in , he was very tense and seemed slightly thrown off by the memory .
"I was 9 , it was my birthday actually and my father said that he had a surprise for me . I shouldn't of
believed him" Ace scoffed shaking his head . "So he took me to our current base that was only newly built at
the time and took me to one of the cells ; he had a man handcuffed to a pole in the corner of this dimly lit cell
. He told me that killing him was my birthday gift" Ace chuckled probably at how insane it sounds when he
says it out loud. "I told him I didn't want my gift so he said that if I didn't kill him , the man would slowly die
in the cell anyways and that he would take everything away from me . Everything being my toys to my bed" I
watched as Ace close his eyes , trying to remember back to that day .
He doesn't try to repress or forget his memories of the abuse his father put him through . He lives in them ,
replays them almost . He's not afraid of them , he faces them head on . He was really stubborn but strong and
I think that's what I admire most about him . He's fearless ; He's brave .
"Even after my fathers threat , I still refused to kill him" . "Then because I refused , my father left me in the
same cell . He came back and punched me repeatedly until I agreed to kill the man" He bit his lip while his
eyes were shut . "The man and I had conversation while my father was gone . The man had told me that it was
okay if I killed him because he liked me and thought I was a good kid. He told me as long as I gave him a
quick death , he wouldn't mind" Ace chuckled at his 9 year old self for believing any better . "The gun was in
my hands , but my father had to pull the trigger and then , he was dead" Ace shrugged , reaching over to the
cigarettes on the bedside table and lit one , savouring the smoke .
I felt my heart sink slowly for him .

Im thinking about making Ace an instagram page , would you guys follow it or nah ? ~ A

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"How did you react after you killed him?" I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue asking questions about it since
I could see Ace still isn't over it to this day .
"I went home and cried for days".
I feel bad for him . I feel bad for him yet I thought I deserved my punishments and all my abuse . I know how
Ace sees my father now . He sees my father like I see his father ; A cruel manipulative monster and if they
didn't get their way , they would 'punish' people for their own mistakes . It made me furious....so furious that I
wanted to cry .
The guilt that I had been carrying around for years had lifted and I felt like I could finally breathe again . It
was never my fault but why couldn't I see that sooner . Why couldn't I stand up to my father and put a gun to
his head . I was so blinded by fear that I would be beaten that I didn't see things for how they were . That I
was being abused . I know that I was abused but I never really understood what it meant . But now I know it
is getting beaten for the stupidest reasons like arriving home five minutes late because I decided to walk
slower .
Tears began to well up in my eyes as I stared at the wall , lost in thought .
"I can't believe I thought that it was my fault" Ace scoffed disgustingly at the thought of his father . He didn't
even realise that I had just come to that realisation myself .
My father was cruel , evil and irrational and because of this , I got punished . Tears welled up in my eyes as I
tried to blink away so that Ace wouldn't notice.

Ace's POV:
"I can't believe I thought that it was my fault" I scoffed angrily at myself .
I was so lost in thought that I didn't even notice Sofia struggling to fight off her tears until she couldn't hold
them in anymore . I glanced at her to see a tear rolling down her cheek . I raised my eyebrows surprisingly .
God I'm so fucking stupid , why would I make that face , now she's going to think I'm judging her for crying ,
fuck.
But she didn't say anything. Suddenly the single tear had another tear next to it . Her lip quivered as she sat on
the bed next to me , not realising that I was staring at her . She had so much pain bottled up and I wanted to
kill every last person who was to blame for even a second of pain . I've already killed her father , but that
wasn't enough , I wasn't fast enough. Maybe if I had met her when we were 15 , I would've killed him for her
. No I definitely would've . But he had been abusing her for awhile so I doubt that my 15 year old self, killing
him would've made a difference.
I'll never like the people she knew during that period of her life . They were all too cowardly to save her ,
they were all too selfish . Everytime I think of him laying a hand on her , on my girl , my blood begins to boil
. But I couldn't be angry right now , I had to be ...... gentle right now , for her .
"Hey" I whispered gently . She looked at me with widened eyes . "I was abused" she muttered . Oh shit , I
can't deal with this , this is why I'm not cut out to be her boyfriend. I gulped as I looked at her worriedly . "I
was abused" she weeped , tears beginning to stream down her face .

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What do I say . What do I say . What do I say .
"I know baby" . FUCK IM SO BAD AT THIS, SHE NEEDS ME AND I COME OUT WITH I KNOW .
"You didn't deserve any of it" I whispered , my heart clenching every time I looked at her . Her eyebrows
frowned at my words . "Why did he do it then?" She whimpered quietly . "Because some people are just evil
, some people are just cruel" I tried to explain as best I could . But I couldn't give her a solid reason because
I don't abuse, I just kill . Which is probably worse . Why does she like me again ? . Oh yeah I forgot I'm
irresistible. What the fuck is my brain doing , my girl is sitting here infront of me , having a mental
breakdown and I'm thinking that I'm irresistible.
"Sofia , I will never let anyone lay another finger on you , even if it kills me" I grabbed her face gently before
clenching my jaw angrily . She nodded weakly before hugging me.
I never knew what being hugged felt like until I met her . I was missing out . She's the only person I'll ever let
hug me . The only one .
My arms held her tight as she weeped into my chest before burying her face into my neck . "You smell good"
her weak voice uttered causing a chuckle to escape my lips . I slipped my hand under my shirt that she was
wearing and rubbed her back soothingly. I could feel her uneven breaths slowly become normal as my skin
brushed against hers .
Of course I know what I do her . But does she know what she does to me . I don't think she'll ever realise
how much power she has over me . I would kill everyone for her simply if she asked . There would be no
reason needed .
If I could make her pain go away , I would . If I could take her pain , I would . Her soft weeps quietened as
hugged her , trying to make all the pain go away . "I really like you" Sofia chirped gently as I continued to rub
her back . I was going to get up to turn on the tv until Sofia grasped onto me like I was going to die . "I'm just
turning on the tv" I reassured her .
I lay back in bed , her arms instantly wrapped around me . "Hey" I whispered grabbing her attention. She
looked up at me . "No more crying , I don't like seeing you upset" I wiped the tear from under her eye . She
nodded with a sniffle .
Guys I made ace's instagram account , it's @acexhernandez if you want to follow it.

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Sofia's POV :
A few weeks had passed and it was now February. We were back home . I went back to nursing school and
it was finally the weekend .
I was talking to Ice . We had become quite close over the few weeks . "No Ice you can't-" I facepalmed with
a giggle . "I just did" he raised his eyebrows after putting on one of Ace's shirts . "He's going to kill you" I
muttered , shaking my head . "What you're wearing his t-shirt , why can't I?!" Ice glared at me jokingly .
"Because he actually likes me" I responded cheekily , earning a shocked face from Ice .
He blinked at me a few times . "He's already going to kill me for being alone in a room with you so may
aswell go out with a bang" Ice grinned sarcastically.
"So after you go on this date with this girl , what happens next?" I questioned him to see if he would give me
the right answer . "That for me to know" he scrunched his nose , sticking tongue out at me playfully before
doing his tie.
"Ew gross , you failed" I glared at him . "What do you mean 'ew gross'" he tried to make me sound dumb . "I
know you and Ace had sex" Ice rolled his eyes while sliding on his suit jacket . I felt heat rise to my cheeks .
"Shut up Ice , we did not" I smacked his arm . "He told me all about itttt" Ice teased running to the other side
of the room . "Did he actually?" I felt a gaping hole in my chest . "No but you just confirmed it" Ice chuckled
evilly . "God I hate you" I scowled angrily , my cheeks a rosey red colour .
"So how was it?" Ice asked , staring at himself in the mirror . "I'm not telling you" I shrieked . "Dante's going
to be heartbroken" Ice grinned before shaking his head , acting like he was disappointed. I jumped onto the
bed . "Why would Dante be heartbroken" I chirped , pulling out my knives that Ace had gotten me , just to
admire them . I saw Ice's cheerful expression drop immediately. "Wait....he didn't tell you?" Ice made an O
shape with his mouth .
"Tell me what" I scowled at Ice . "Nothing"he shrugged , trying to play it cool , but I knew that it was serious
if Ice didn't want to tell me . I took one of my knives , and flung it at Ice as he walked past . The knife stuck
out from the wall . "Are you insane , you almost killed me!!" Ice snarled loudly while I smirked . I knew I
wasn't going to hit him , he was moving too slowly . "Tell me" I demanded . "How about noooo" he sprinted
out of the room at full speed causing me to giggle .
Ice was really funny . I see why Ace hangs out with him now , I didn't really understand it before because he
was an asshole but he's nicer when you get to know him . I climbed out the bed and grabbed my knife that
was in Ace's wall . I hissed through my teeth when I seen the slit in Ace's wall . "Oops" . Hopefully he won't
kill me .
I wandered out the room and ended up outside of Ace's office . I wanted to ask him about this Dante situation.
I knocked on his door lightly but there was no response . Well I know he's in here . I knocked again getting a
grunt in response. "That sounds a lot like your sex noise" I giggled from behind the door .
Within a matter of seconds the door opened , revealing Ace, who blinked at me . "That does not sound like
my sex noise. Take that back" he crossed his arms stubbornly . "I just wanted you to open the door" I giggled
, jumping into his arms . Ace instinctively caught me , giving me a widened glance that said 'you could've hurt
yourself' . "I knew you'd catch me" I shrugged in response .

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He walked over to his desk chair carrying me with him and placed me on his lap . I snuggled up in arms as he
cradled my body in his arms . He started scribbling his signature down onto different papers without even
thinking twice.
"Why did Ice tell me that Dante would be heartbroken if he found out we had sex?" I uttered , playing with
Ace's tie . Ace's stare suddenly shot down to mine. His exhausted expression became fuelled with anger .
"Why were you talking about sex with Ice" Ace snarled viscously at me , making me jump . His whole mood
had changed within a snap of two fingers .
"I wasn't- I told you already that you're not allowed to hang around Ice" Ace scolded me . "You don't get to
make that decision" I grumbled getting off his lap .
"Yes I do get to make that decision, because Ice is a bad guy and I don't want you to be hanging around him".
"You're a bad guy too and yet I'm dating you" I snapped angrily . Ace's harsh expression suddenly lifted ,
making a more sad one . His frowned eyebrows had lifted leaving a hurt look in his eyes .
"I didn't mean that" I uttered with a sorry tone . "Go away Sofia" He turned away from me , now facing out
his window . I felt a sudden rush of guilt , I didn't mean it . I don't think he's a bad guy , I just think he's done
bad things , especially under pressure .
I just walked out silently , shutting his office door behind me . I wandered into my room , locking the door
behind me. I flopped onto my bed before I let out a sigh . I hugged my pillow tight . I felt like I wanted break
something but I knew I couldn't . I hadn't been in this room in so long since I sleep with Ace now .
I hated the idea of me hurting him . My lungs felt heavy as I sat on my bed ; I have to do something to get my
mind off of him for awhile . I decided to do some of my homework that was due for Monday . Right before I
finished , I got a call .

Thank you guys so much for 2 million reads , it means the world

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"Hey Sof , it's Raul".
I hadn't heard his voice in so long . It seemed like years since I last spoke to him . "Hey Raul" I muttered
quietly . I don't know how I feel about him calling me , wait.......how did he get my number. Fuck it we're in
the Mafia , anything is possible . "How are you?" His voice sounded strong and confident. I had completely
forgotten about him taking over my fathers Mafia .
"Good" my voice croaked . I was on the verge of tears , ready to cry until Ace came in and forgave me . "I'm
calling to invite you and Ace for dinner tomorrow night" Raul sounded like he was busy and not paying much
attention to the conversation. "Um ...... I'm not sure if Ace will be able to make it" I tried so hard to not let my
voice crack . "My main concern is you , will you come home Sofia ?" He offered adding a certain softness to
the way he spoke. "Tomorrow um yeah sure" I agreed .
"No I mean , until you find someone you really love , you don't have to be with Ace anymore , our father is
dead and no one is forcing you to be with him anymore" Raul rambled on while my eyes widened .
I never thought I'd be this conflicted about going home . But I'm not sure where home is anymore . I'm not sure
if that place was ever my home and if it is , it's full of pain , only pain . But on the other hand my father isn't
alive to make it miserable anymore plus I feel like Ace is getting tired of me being around him . Maybe it
would be good for us if I moved back home . But what if we never got to see eachother because we'd both so
busy with things .
"Um- hey Sofia I have to go , think about what I said okay!" Raul quickly hung up . Oh fuck . How do I tell
Ace that I could possibly be moving back home .
I climbed into bed and tried to fall asleep but kept overthinking everything . If only my brain could relax for a
few minutes .
A few hours had passed of me , continuously scrolling through my phone . I sat on my bed , leaning against
the head board , I glanced at the time. 3am . I think Ace would still be awake. I wandered out of my room and
stood outside his bedroom door , is he still mad ?.
I knocked on his door but got no reply. He's probably still angry , I should leave him alone . But I couldn't
help knock just one more time . No reply again. The least he could do is give me some sort of grunt to let me
know that he's alive . Fuck it I'm just going to walk in .
I opened the door to see a pitch black , empty room. I stared at the bed confused at why he wasn't there . I
checked his office after but he wasn't there either . No one was here except for his guards . He must be really
angry if he left me alone in his house , surrounded by a bunch of men who are over 6ft and weigh a lot .
I returned to my bedroom and watched YouTube for awhile . I was about to fall asleep when I heard the front
door open. I waited a few minutes before checking it out
I strutted downstairs and into the living room . Ice was sitting on the couch with a black eye and a few cuts &
bruises all over his body . My jaw dropped at the sight of him . "I'm fine" he waved me away . I grabbed his
head and examined the bruising . "I think you'll be okay , Ace did this didn't he" I asked , ready to be
disappointed. "No" Ice shot me a worried glance .

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"He didn't tell you..." he stared confusingly at the ground , not making eye contact. "We went on our most
dangerous mission so far" Ice shook his head , taking the frozen pea's that were laying on the coffee table ,
pressing them to his eye ; he let a hiss escape his lips .
I felt a gaping hole in my chest . "What do you mean , where is he?" I questioned Ice worriedly . "We
attacked the Ravens for two of their members trying to kill Ace awhile ago and he's probably in the kitchen".
"The Ravens as in the fourth biggest Mafia in the world!" My eyes widened at Ice who was nursing his
wounds . "Yes" he grumbled . I'm going to kill him . "He's in bad shape even if he doesn't show it, I'm telling
you this because I know you care about him; he does stupid things when he gets hurt , and it's not very often
that he gets hurt since he doesn't let anyone in, so I'm saying that you should go in there and be his girlfriend,
not his mom" Ice mumbled .
I think that's the best advice he's ever given me .
I approached the kitchen , my footsteps making no sound beneath me . I stood at the door watching Ace who
had ice cubes in a bag pressed against his bare chest , blink slowly while his chest raised and fell with every
breath that he took. His shirt was on the floor and he had a cut on his upper lip next to the bruise on his
cheekbone . He had bruises all over his body , he just looked exhausted . I noticed a big one on his collar
bone .
I was scared looking at him so beaten up , I had never seen him look so hurt before.
I walked in and stood in front of him with my arms folded . He just looked at me before turning his attention
back to the floor . "Come on" I uttered with a soft tone , grabbing his hand while dragging him into the
bathroom . He sat on the toilet with the toilet lid down so that he didn't fall through .
"What hurts the most ?" I asked him quietly . He pointed to his collar bone with his eyes shut . I took a cloth
and soaked it in warm water , I grabbed his cheek gently , forcing him to look up at me . I dabbed his bloody
lip with the white the cloth , his blood soaking into it . He gazed at me while I dabbed his cheek bone . "How
did you get this one" I asked pointing at the bruise on his collar bone .

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"A base ball bat" Ace mumbled , his eyes shutting . "Stay awake , I don't know if you have a concussion yet"
I warned him as I spoke with a gentle tone ; he was breaking my heart . I could feel the worry begin to build
up in my chest . My eyes watered as I gently pressed the cloth against his collar bone , earning a hiss .
The whole house was silent and still except for Ice who was making noise from inside the living room . A
tear slipped out of my eye from seeing Ace hurt . I watched his exhausted eyes lift up to mine when he heard
me sniffle . He took his hand and wiped the tear that was slowly gliding down my cheek . "Stop crying" he
whispered weakly .
"Why would you do that" I shook my head . "Why would you go out and almost get killed when you know I
would be here waiting for you to come back."
"I don't know"
"You know I need you" I whimpered , my bottom lip trying to fight off a quiver . He stared at me with a guilty
look . "You don't need me Sofia" he shook his head slowly due to his sore neck . "I do need you" .
"You shouldn't" he murmured his head hanging low . "You were selfish , leaving our relationship the way it
was and going out to almost die . You knew it was dangerous and you wanted to leave us like that!" .
"What happened if you died ? I would've blamed myself Ace" I whimpered letting a sob escape my lips. He
raised his eyebrow at me . "I'm selfish I know" he nodded slightly with an exhausted tone. "You didn't like
me enough to try and mend things before you left" Tears streamed down my face .
"No I don't like you" he hissed angrily , his eyes had a shiny layer over them , signalling that he was upset .
"Ok" my voice was quiet as I nodded slightly about to walk out . "I love you Sofia" he grabbed my wrist , he
sounded upset like he didn't want to admit it to me or himself . My eyes widened at his words . "You love
me?" I uttered surprised . His look fell to the floor . "Yeah" he nodded . "I don't want to" He grumbled
admitting it to himself . "Except I can't help but love every inch of you, from you're giggle to the way you play
with your hands when you're nervous. I can't help but love when you lie next to me , running your hand
through my hair . I feel at peace with you in my arms . I feel happy when I'm around you Sofia . I don't want
to love you because I know that one day I'll have to loose you , and I'll never be prepared for that" he shook
his head . He spoke with almost an angry tone but I knew it was because he was emotional.
"I was fine with dying until you came along because now if I die , I'll never see you again and there couldn't
be a more painful thought".
"So yes , I went out there and I probably would've died , but I couldn't because of you" he folded his arms .
"Because the thought of leaving you is too painful to comprehend" .
I stayed silent as he stared me down .
I saw slight disappointment on his face when he thought I wasn't going to say it back .
"I love you too" I mumbled with a soft grin appearing on my face . His face instantly softened at my words .
"Really" he couldn't fight off his smile . "Yes you dummy" I giggled before I pressed my lips against his . He
hugged my waist and pulled us impossibly close until we were body to body ; I'm so in love with him .
He smiled into the kiss making me giggle again before he pressed his forehead against mine. "Say it again" he
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whispered . I grinned ; "I love you" I pecked his lips right after . "I love you" his smile faded away as he
spoke . "What's wrong?" I questioned . "Nothing , just thinking of every bad thing that could happen to us" he
looked traumatised . "Don't do that you'll take the fun out of it" I placed my finger on his lips .
He nodded with a smirk .
"Oh , while you're in a good mood, we're going to dinner with my brothers tomorrow, you have no option ,
Goodnight" I patted his on the back playfully, knowing he wouldn't like it . His face instantly dropped .
"You're kidding" he huffed , his eyebrows frowning since he was unimpressed.
"Nope" I smirked walking into the kitchen . He groaned loudly as he stood up from the toilet seat . "I'm in
pain" he grunted , holding his shoulder . I wandered over to him . "That's what you get" I smirked . He pushed
the bruise on his collar bone , making himself wince . "You could've broken it" I mumbled . He gritted his
teeth together as he pressed on some of his other bruises . I ran my finger over his sore collar bone . "Do you
want me to kiss your bruises better" I question with a soft smile , staring at him innocently . He nodded
slightly . I kissed his cheek bone gently then his collar bone . I pecked his shoulder next his bicep .
He put his finger under my chin , lifting my head up to kiss him . He kissed me gently , savouring the moment ;
Savouring us. "Can we go to bed now" I rubbed the back of my neck awkwardly. I was still embarrassed to
ask him . "You might have to carry me up the stairs" he joked. "I can't carry your heavy ass up the stairs" i
retorted playfully. He made a shocked face before a smirk suddenly appeared .
"You love my ass" . "Yes I do" I nodded.
—————————
"Ace Thiago Hernandez, if you are not down here in 2 minutes I'm coming up there and pulling you down by
your tie" I shouted up at him , getting a eyebrow raise from Dante who was in shock that I was able to talk to
Ace that way .
"I didn't know my mother was still alive" he roared back down . "That's not a funny joke" I hissed up at him .

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Ace drove us to my old home.
His right hand gripped the steering wheel while his left rested on my thigh . "Are you sure you're okay to see
them?" Ace questioned with a worrisome tone . "Yeah of course , I'm fine" I nodded . He let out a sigh of
frustration. "Promise me you won't be rude" I took his hand and placed it in mine ; they fitted together like
two pieces of a puzzle . "I can't promise anything" he grumbled at the thought of my brothers . I pouted , trying
to give my best puppy eyes . His scowl became weak , but he was still angry .
"I hate what they didn't do" he huffed . "But , I won't kill them , if that's what you're worried about" he rolled
his eyes . It meant a lot to me that he would even come considering he hates them all . I haven't told him why
they want us to come and I'm very nervous to see how he reacts when he finds out .
Things are better between me and Ace now , but if there was a possibility I could go home , I would
definitely explore it . I want to see what my brothers are like when my fathers not around . I want to see what
my mother enjoys to do without having to walk on eggshells around my father . Did I ever know the real them
?.
I bounced my knee up and down repeatedly , causing Ace to grab my thigh and release my hand from his grip
. My breath hitched as his hand squeezed gently. He raised his eyebrow keeping his eyes on the road . My
dress was quite short , it was dark red which matched my lipstick and it had a turtle neck .
Ace's hand slid up my thigh , he knew this was one of my turn ons. I bit my lip , staring out of the window ,
hoping he didn't notice . I seen a grin on his face from the reflection of the window . He continued to drive
until we got to my old house .
——————————
Ace opened the door for me , taking my hand . We walked up to my door and he knocked twice . My heart
was pounding , I swear I was sweating . Ace squeezed my hand reassuringly before the door opened . It was
my mother who stood there with a welcoming smile . I still haven't forgiven her for lying to me , but I wasn't
angry anymore which is an improvement I think .
"My princess" my mom kissed my cheek before embracing me tightly in her arms . My arms hung limp , I
didn't hug back . I know that it was mean but I just felt like she was a stranger . I saw disappointment rise to
her face before she faked a smile .
We walked into the kitchen .
"Sofiaaaa" Stefano shouted , running up to me and spinning me in the air . I smiled but immediately after I
watched Ace's face show anger so clearly . He was trying to hide it . "How have you been?" he grabbed my
cheeks gently . "Good" I nodded reassuringly.
Stefano then turned his attention to Ace . Stefano tried to stand tall and confident but I could tell that he was
scared of him . "Stefano" he held his hand out for Ace to shake it . He hesitated shaking Stefano's hand but
shook it anyways when he saw the glare that I was giving him .
Then Diego , Javi and Marco walked in . "Little sissss" Diego roared before they all hugged me . I could see
that Ace was loosing his patience. He was so overprotective but I don't blame him , he knows what I went
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through , maybe not how deep it runs but he knows . It's like everytime they touched me , he wanted to
replace their touch with his . I did too .
If I could be in his arms forever I would . When I'm dying , I want him to cradle me until my eyes shut and my
heart stops beating . The only reason my heart beats right now is because of him . Only him .
"Tell us , how have you been" Javi sounded excited . "I've been good , I still am good" I smiled with a nod .
My brothers introduced themselves to Ace , reluctant but they did . As soon as they stepped back , Ace slid
his arm around my waist , pulling me next to him while taking out a cigarette with the other . "I'm going
outside to smoke" he whispered in my ear , his forehead pressing against the side of my head. "Okay" .
He went to walk away . "Hey!" I snapped with a sad tone . A smile appeared on his face when he realised
why I snapped at him . He walked back over and kissed my lips , earning a smile that spread across my lips .
My brothers stared at us with confusion , it's hardly ever that you get to find love when you're in a Mafia
relationship . I know I'm lucky .
"You and Ace?" Diego asked with a shocked face . "I can't believe it" Javi looked pale . Then Raul came in ,
wearing his everyday clothes . "You're home for good" he smiled , embracing me . I now realise that me
coming here was a confirmation for them that I was going to come home . "Uh- Dinner" my Mom shouted
from the dining room .
Me , Ace and all my brothers sitting down at one table for food . What could go wrong ? .

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"So princess , how have you been?" My mom asked , cutting into her steak .
"Good , Ace has taken great care of me" I sat awkwardly , speaking with a quiet tone . It's something about
this house that always makes me tense and sacred . Probably the years of constant , continuous abuse , I felt
like my heart was going to break open my chest due to how hard it was ponding .
Ace glanced in my direction before his eyes drifted back to his plate . "Thank you Ace for taking care of
daughter , it meant a lot" my mother smiled after wiping her mouth with a napkin . I saw a confused
expression appear on Ace's face , he was wondering why they were speaking in past tense. Raul was sitting
in my fathers seat , I never realised how much he looked like him . He had all his facial features, just
different colour hair .
"No problem" Ace responded after a minute of silence . He was only being nice for me and I know that
which makes him currently 10x more attractive. There was silence at the table except for the clinking of our
forks that hit off our plates . "This is really good mom" I mumbled , not a smile since she didn't deserve it but
I did appreciate her cooking this for me .
Ace ate his dinner silently , trying to hold back all the things he wanted to unleash on my brothers . "You're a
very quiet man" Raul chirped suspiciously from the end of the table . "I have my reasons" he responded with
a cold tone . He has no emotion in his voice when he talks to people he doesn't that well .
"Meaning?" . When did Raul suddenly become brave, I could've used that a long time ago. "Drop it" I
snapped at Raul viciously , knowing that even the littlest thing could set Ace off . "Who do you think you're
talking to?" Raul's voice deepened . My heart pounded inside my chest . "That's enough Raul!" Stefano yelled
at him .
Then Ace finally spoke up , scrunching his napkin in his hand after wiping his mouth . "What would you have
done if she continued talking" a placid expression was planted on Ace's face as he stared my brother directly
in the eyes . I reached under the table , grabbing Ace's hand to settle him . "Nothing" Raul replied , rolling his
eyes .
"Yeah" Ace scoffed , getting a confused look from all my family members. "You think I don't know?" Ace
chuckled evilly at their faces . "That you all did nothing AND LET HER GET ABUSED FOR YEARS!" Age
suddenly burst , anger seeping out of his voice ; He stood up suddenly , like he was going to jump across the
table . I leaned away from him . My eyes widened at him . He did not just do that . But I couldn't be angry at
him , I knew bringing him was a bad idea from the start . After all , he is only speaking the truth .
"YOU ARE NOT MEN , YOU ARE BOYS" he roared at them , pointing his knife at all of them including my
mother . "You are cowards . Fucking cowards."
Then I watched Raul stand up and challenge Ace . My heart sank to my stomach . I know that Raul is not
strong enough by himself to handle Ace in a fight . But then all my brothers stood up . My mother stared in
shock at the sight that was about to play out infront of us both .
"If I take you all on , I will win" Ace cracked his knuckles , getting ready to fight . "You wish" Javi growled
defensively. "I'd like to see you try" Diego snapped aggressively.
But before Ace could even respond , Raul had thrown a right hook , his fist colliding with Ace's jaw . Ace
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was already weak from attacking the Ravens so it would be harder for him to fight . Ace jumped at Raul ,
sending all my brothers into attack mode . Marco took my mother outside .
Ace can't defend himself alone. But they're my brothers , the men I grew up with . Who do I choose ?!.
Ace repeatedly punched Raul on the ground , but then got ripped off of him by my brother Stefano . I
screamed as Stefano grabbed a glass and broke it over Ace's head . Ace scrambled to his feet and tackled
him into the wall causing Stefano to grunt in pain . He fell to the floor as Ace tried to go for Raul again but
was stopped by Diego . Diego had grabbed a knife .
Stefano was currently getting back up to jump on Ace again. Ace struggled but managed to get the knife out of
Diego's hand with out being stabbed and flung it across the floor . That's when I realised he's keeping his
promise.
Before Diego could get another opportunity to hurt Ace , Ace kicked Diego off of him , sending him flying
into Stefano . They both hit the wall with a thud . Javi jumped on Ace's back , punching Ace in the face quite
a few times . I shrieked as my chair fell backwards , sending me tumbling to the ground . Ace's attention
immediately turned towards me . Raul had taken the last bit of strength he had , to knock over my chair .
Ace threw Javi off him and onto the ground , and came running towards me . He scooped me up into his arms
, pushing me away from Raul who had a knife in his hand from the dinner table . Who knew what he was
going to do with it . Ace hit Raul again , they were both bleeding a lot and Ace's cuts that were healing had
reopened like the one on his perfectly sculpted cheekbone .
Stefano , Javi and Diego all were ready to fight again and Ace looked like he was getting tired. But I have to
say , he held them off incredibly well . Stefano jumped on Ace , Javi and Diego not far behind . They all
started to hit Ace , trying to restrict his arms . Ace grabbed Stefano , pushing him across the table .
Tears welled up in my eyes as I panicked. I need to stop this , I'm not this weak little girl anymore who lets
things just happen . My heart pounded in my chest as I watched them hurt the man I loved . The only man I've
ever loved . My decision was made before the fight even started . I wiped the tears from my eyes , clearing
my vision .
I grabbed the hem of my dress and pulled it up my thigh , revealing my knives that were strapped to my thigh .
I slipped one out and ran towards the cluster of men on the ground . Somehow I had managed to get to Raul . I
held the knife against his throat , screaming for the fighting to stop . "ILL KILL HIM , ILL FUCKING KILL
HIM" I yelled furiously. Raul's eyes widened at me . "Get them off of him" I demanded while I glared at Raul
. Disappointment flooded Raul's face . "Get off" Raul announced while looking me dead in the eye .
All my brothers got off of Ace . Blood and broken plates everywhere . "You will let us leave , and you will
not contact me again" my voice became shaky as I said my last sentence. "So much for you coming home"
Raul spat at me . I glanced over at Ace who had blood dripping from his head and mouth , his suit filthied by
everyone's blood . But I knew he had just heard what Raul said due to the confusion on his face.
"We are leaving" I took the knife from Raul's neck and put Ace's arm around my shoulder, helping him up . I
could tell he was angry with me . I helped Ace out of my house . My brothers watching us leave .
They shut the door behind us .
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P 72-3
His breathing was unsteady and he was beyond exhausted but he still had the energy to be angry at me .
"You were going to go home" he took his arm off of my shoulder , refusing my help . We stood in front of the
car outside . "I don't know what I was going to do" I answered honestly , I didn't want to lie to him . "We
came here so you could leave me after you told me you loved me" Ace sounded hurt.......very hurt . "After I
told you I loved you". There was a strain in his voice . "You can't blame me for wanting to see if my family
had changed" I shook my head .
"But they haven't , you're brothers were raised by your father , to act and think just like him , just like me and
my father". I just stared at the ground , I didn't know what to say . "Your brother is just like him , and for me
to think you wanted to go home and not be with me anymore...... I've never expressed my feelings Sofia but
I'll tell you , you hurt me , this hurt me" he shook his head .
"You can stay here and be with your brothers for all I care" Ace got in his car letting his anger take over his
better judgement. I just stared at him with a sad expression . He was angry and rightfully so . He drove off ,
leaving me alone in front of my old house . I walked around the corner , at least it's not as cold as it was last
month , who am I kidding , this was awful . I could help but let the sob escape my lips as I walked around the
corner . Tears streamed down my face .
Nothing can ever be easy .
I hurt him . His words just kept repeating in my mind , I can't believe I was stupid enough to think they had
changed .
I took my phone out of my pocket and dialled a number .
"Hey" .
"Hey , can you come get me" my fragile voice spoke into the phone .
"Where are you" .
"At my old house" I replied, trying to contain my tears .
"I'll be there in 5" .
—————————
I continued to walk around the corner as I waited to be collected . I had my heels in my hand as I walked
down the freezing road bare foot since my feet were aching . My mascara was probably all over my cheeks
and I probably looked like a mess . I watched the car appear and stop next to the side walk , where I was .
He got out of the car . "What happened" Ice pulled me into his arms , holding me tight . "I hurt him Ice , I hurt
everybody" I whimpered , finally releasing all my built up feelings . "You're fine , you're not cut?" He
checked me to see if I was hurt . "No he made sure I didn't get hurt" I shook my head with tears falling from
my cheeks . "Come on" Ice helped me into his car .
————————
I lay in bed , with the blankets up to my neck and the lights off . I asked Ice to leave me alone until I felt
better . I just stared at the wall feeling numb , this was our second argument in like two days .

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What if they keep continuing? , what will I do? , I can't live without him . Then I heard a knock on the door .
"I brought pizza" Ice came in , opening the pizza box and placing it down on the bed . "You bought me pizza
even though I'm already staying at your house?" I pouted gratefully . "Oh no , don't get all emotional again , I
can't handle it" Ice shook his head jokingly. I smiled slightly before taking a bite of a slice .
"Have you talked to- we don't mention his name" I scowled, interrupting him . "Sofia , you're going to have to
make up with him sometime , why not now ? , it's been two days" Ice urged me to try and talk to Ace . I
stared at the pizza . "He doesn't want to talk" I shook my head , refusing to listen to Ice's advice . "You're
going to talk to him today whether you like it not , now get dressed" .
Ice left , leaving me and the pizza alone . Why should I make any effort with Ace if he's not going to make any
effort with me . He's making it pretty clear that he doesn't want to talk since he hasn't tried to call or text .
Was it wrong of me wanting to see if my brothers had changed ? . I lay back down , pulling the covers over
my head . I feel miserable without him . It's weird that at the start I only annoyed him because I was bored but
now I'm around him because I'm in love with him . I love him .
I still love him, even after he left me out in the cold to find my own way home . He didn't call to see if I was
okay , he just left , that's what Ace does when he's hurt , he runs . Guess that's why I'll have to make the first
move and apologise .
I still better get an apology off of him though .
I struggled to get out of bed but I managed and took a shower . I felt better after the shower , I was ready to
see Ace after two days . That may not seem like a long time , but the most we've gone without each other
since we met is a few hours .
I think starting a journal would be good for me , then that way I could express my feelings about Ace without
having to worry about anyone telling me I'm wrong.
Not to mention I've had to go to school while dealing with me and Ace's short term break up . Hopefully it's
short term . School was pretty shit today because I couldn't concentrate , I kept thinking about Ace or food but
Ice picked me up and brought me back here . He also got me pizza .
I got dressed , putting on a pair of jeans and a tight t-shirt that hugged my torso .
Thank you all for the support , it means a lot .

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I sat on the edge of my bed , holding my phone in my hand , contemplating calling him first . I never wanted to
leave him , not like this anyways , I just wanted to see what my life would be like if my father wasn't in it .
What it felt like to not fear every minute of being in that house. But it gave me some clarity , I guess .
That my brothers were raised to be exactly like my father , but they are all different versions . Stefano is the
strength , Raul is the cruelty , Diego is the naive , Javi is the quiet and Marco is the paranoid. They all have
traits that they took from my father , whether they know it or not .
I shouldn't have to apologise for wanting to go home but I will if it stops our fights and arguments, I'll
apologise every time if I have to because I love him , and he loves me . He's hurt and thinks that I was going
to leave him . But that's not what happened at all . I was going to reject my brothers offer face to face so that
it wasn't done over a stupid phone call , although maybe that would've been a better idea .
I don't want to loose the only good thing I've ever had because I was too stubborn to apologise.
———————————
It was 9pm . Ice stood outside of Ace's mansion door nervously. "He's going to kill me" Ice smacked his
forehead, probably thinking that he was stupid for doing this . "Let me in Ice" I held the door handle . Ice
glanced at me , giving me an unsure look before opening the door . Ace wouldn't be suspicious of someone
coming in because all the inner circle have keys to his house ...... which is quite danger now that I think about
it .
I wandered up the stairs , walking pass Ace's office to see that he wasn't in it . I stopped at his room and my
heart was pounding . How would he react to me coming here . It's been almost 3 days , he must miss me too .
After all , he is the clingy one . I'm joking , we're equally clingy .
I pressed my ear against Ace's door . There was no noise , it was so quiet you could probably hear a pin
drop . "He sleeps when he's badly injured, it's the only time he sleeps to be honest" Dante appeared out of
nowhere , I just gave him a nod ."I loved you , I love you" he suddenly spat out . It's like a weight was
instantly lifted off of his chest . "I knew you had feelings for me , but I didn't know that you were in love with
me" I frowned my eyebrows at him . "Who wouldn't be in love with you" He gave me a slight smile . "I just
thought I'd tell you before I leave" Dante shrugged walking away .
"Where are you going?" I spoke quietly, but I was eager to know . "I'm going to go lead one of Ace's smaller
bases in California , I probably won't be back , atleast I got see you one last time" he looked upset but still
had a smile plastered on his face . "Dante no" I shook my head , letting it fall . "See ya around , Sofia" he
walked down the stairs . I waved him goodbye before placing my hand on the door . I opened it , only for the
door to creek causing me to cringe .
He was asleep , lying on his bed with his whole battered and bruised body spread across it . He lay on his
stomach while he had his arm under his pillow and his legs stretched across the bed in opposite directions .
He doesn't even have to use the blanket since he's always so warm . Ace had only his underwear on. I smiled
softly at him at peace for once . I had never witnessed him actually asleep . He let out a snore making me
giggle quietly. In that moment I forgot that we were fighting or that I hurt him .
I think I should just leave him to sleep , he doesn't get a lot of it anyways , my apology can wait .

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I turned around to leave before I heard him speak . "Sofia" he muttered half asleep , still lying in the same
position, the only difference was that his eyes were open. "I was just going to leave" I mumbled quietly ,
struggling to control my breathing . He didn't reply instead I could hear his even breaths . "Stay" he
whispered in almost a breath . I glanced at his body with a sad expression , he was hurt , pretty badly too
because of me .
I took off my jacket and all my clothes and threw on a t-shirt and my shorts. I climbed in beside him, pulling
the blankets over me. Ace groaned in pain as he pulled me close to his body. Our bodies were pressed
against eachother, his was extremely warm. "I'm sorry, I would never leave you, I just wanted to decline face
to face that's all" I mumbled, stroking his hair. "I'm sorry too" he mumbled with his eyes closed. "Are you
tired" I whispered, reviving a nod from him in response.
"You can sleep , I'll be here" I kissed his forehead before he grabbed my cheek , pressing his lips against
mine with his eyes still shut . Then he snuggled his head between my chin and neck causing me to wrap my
hands around his head . "I can't get enough of you" he mumbled , I felt his breath against my chest which sent
tingles up my spine . "I love you" he whispered . "I love you" I said quietly, a smile slowly spreading across
my face . His words made the hair on the back of my neck stand up . I don't think I'll ever get used to him
telling me that he loves me .
"Go asleep baby" I hushed him while holding him tight . He hummed in response. A few minutes passed and I
could feel that his breathing had become even again , signalling that he was asleep . My eyelids were
becoming heavier by the second and within 2 minutes, I had fallen asleep too , holding the love of my life in
my arms . There is no better place , there is no better person ..... to me.

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I woke up to the sound of footsteps but then I realised that Ace was still in my arms . Suddenly my heart
started to pound in my chest . I reached over to the side of the bed and pulled out my biggest throwing knife
that I had previously wedged in between the bed and the frame a few nights ago . I had one less knife when it
came to throwing but it gave me peace of mind when I slept . I was in Ace's shirt and a pair of his shorts.
I could hear the light footsteps approaching the bedroom door from the corridor. How did I even wake up
from them , they're so light that I could barely hear them . Then I realised that I had just woken from a
nightmare, the footsteps were just a coincidence. There was only one person by sound of the footsteps .
I glanced at Ace who was soundly asleep . I shouldn't wake him , he needs his rest but who is walking
around ? . I glanced at the time , 5 am . No one is allowed in Ace's house after 12 , except for Ice or Dante
and I know this because I live here. Fuck , I was panicking ; it was probably Ice but I knew that it wasn't Ice
as soon as our bedroom door creaked open because everyone would've knocked due to his fear of Ace
beating his ass . I shut my eyes , pretending that I was asleep as I heard the faint footsteps approach the bed .
I clutched my throwing knife tight from under the blankets as adrenaline rushed through my veins. I slowly
opened one of my eyes to see someone holding a gun towards Ace's head , ready to kill him in one swift . I
could only see the shadow of the figure since it was so dark ; if I was going to throw this knife , it would
have to blind .
Before they had the chance to shoot , I sent my knife soaring through the air , hoping that it would hit them in
time to stop whoever it was from shooting Ace . They froze , one of their hands raising to their chest . I did it
. Ace jumped realising someone was in our room , shoving them to the ground . "ICE" Ace roared , his
scream echoing through the house. I heard Ice sprint to our room , open up our door and turn on the light .
I froze when I saw who it was. Raul.
My knife was in his chest as he just stared at me with widened eyes . "Raul" my lip quivered as I stared at
him on the floor . His eyes glanced from me to his chest before he grunted in pain . "RAUL" I screamed ,
scrambling to get out of the bed while Ace just stood frozen . "Raul" I weeped , holding him in my arms.
"You were always good at throwing knives" he smiled as he struggled to breathe, blood trickling down the
side of his cheek from his mouth. "I'm sorry" I mumbled, sobs escaping my mouth , I was unable to control
them . I covered my mouth , muffling my cries as I held him in my arms .
I tried desperately to stop the bleeding . "I deserve this Sofia , let me go" . Each of Raul's blinks became
longer while he struggled to stay awake . "Why are you standing there , go get the nurse" I shouted at Ace
with tears streaming down my face . Ace just stared at me with slightly widened eyes to show me that he was
shocked at the situation in front of us .
Ice sprinted out to get the nurse . "I'm not that 13 year old boy anymore Sofia , I'm a bad man, I've done.... a
lot of bad things" Raul gasped for air , trying to talk . "I'm sorry for letting father abuse you for so long , I
should've stopped him" Raul mumbled , a single tear rolling down his cheek . I was a mess . I may hate Raul
now , but I'll never hate my older brother who I used to adore . The big brother who would bring me to the
park and teach me how to play video games with him . The big brother who taught me how to throw knives
and defend myself , even though I never used it .
"I can't , I can't" I weeped trying to hold my breath so that I didn't sob again . "I've always loved my little
sister" he mumbled before closing his eyes for the last time and releasing his final breath . "No....Raul" my
eyes widened in shock , shaking his head but he didn't wake up . "No no no" I whimpered painfully as Ace
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pulled me away from his body . "He's gone Ace" I sobbed uncontrollably. "He's gone" I sobbed again into
Ace's chest . He had his arms wrapped around me tight , holding my head to his chest .
"It's okay , it's okay" Ace whispered soothingly , kissing the top of my head while rubbing big circles on my
back with his other hand . "He's dead , I killed him" the realisation was only hitting now . I killed my own
brother , my other brothers are going to want my head on a silver platter .
I sobbed uncontrollably begging Ace to take the pain away but he couldn't . I could've sworn I saw him tear
up . Ace scooped his arm under my leg and the other around my back , lifting me effortlessly onto the bed .
"Take him" Ace nodded at Ice and the nurse . "No we can save him" I shrieked about to jump at Ice who was
about to take my brothers body , only to be held back by my boyfriend .
"He's gone , there's no saving him" he spoke weakly , not wanting to break my heart . "It hurts so bad" I
croaked , trying to stop myself from crying . I felt so guilty , I felt like a monster, I felt like my father. Maybe I
was wrong about only my brothers having the personality traits of my father . Maybe I have some too . I
curled up into a ball on the bed with Ace trying to sooth my pain but he couldn't , not this time .
Ice picked up the gun off the gun off of the ground and shook his head . "Ace" he muttered showing him the
handgun . Ace glanced at the gun and back to me . "She saved my life" Ace sounded hurt . "She shouldn't have
to save my life , she shouldn't of had to kill her brother , where's our fucking guards?" Ace snapped angrily.
"You don't get to be angry right now , comfort your girl" Ice scoffed after rolling his eyes before walking out
.
Ace lay next to me , slipping his hand under my jumper and held me . "They're going to kill me" I weeped ,
staring at the wall . Ace took his hand out from his jumper that I was wearing and forced my body to turn to
him . He had a crease in between his eyebrows and a serious look on his face. "I won't ever let anyone of
them hurt you , do you hear me and if they even place a finger on you , I'll burn their house to the ground with
them in it" Ace paused , realising what he had just said . "Only if you want me to" He added his anger fading
away in fear that he had hurt me more .
I stared at him , I needed a distraction. "Loosing them would be bad , but I couldn't live if I lost you" I
mumbled to him , wanting to touch him but I couldn't due to the blood on my hands. A moment of silence
passed with us just staring into each other's souls . "Kiss me" I whispered , Ace giving me an eyebrow raise .
"What's that for" I smiled so slightly at his eyebrow raise that he probably didn't notice due to his focus on
the tears that were still flowing down my face . "Well when we kiss on the bed , I'll admit that I usually get
.... dirty thoughts and I don't think you're in the right mind frame to have sex right now but I really want to kiss
you and if I don't I might go crazy and I'm rambling aren't I?" He talked really fast .

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"Just kiss me"
He pressed his lips against mine , slowly and gently . He knew I liked the slow kisses . Our kiss eventually
turned into a make out . Ace's tongue brushed against mine as we moved in sync with each other. We knew
all of each other and I think that when we fight , we forget no one will ever love each other as much as we do
.
He broke the kiss , wiping away my tears that were still falling . "Do you want to watch a movie" Ace spoke
after clearing his throat . I nodded slightly while staring blankly at the blood on the floor . My brothers blood
. I had forgotten that his blood was still on my hands .
Ace's touch couldn't heal the pain in my heart this time , because he didn't cause it. "Maybe we should do this
in your room" he whispered in my ear , pressing his forehead against the side of my head , I loved when he
did that . I nodded gently in response , not wanting to speak . Without hesitation , he lifted me into his arms .
"I can walk" I croaked quietly. "I know" he shrugged still not putting me down until we reached my bed . He
noticed the blood on my hands .
"Ok let's wash that off" he glanced worriedly before bringing me into the bathroom . Currently I could feel
nothing , I have never felt this numb before . I had a headache from crying and my eyes were all red , not to
mention my tear stained cheeks that were also a rosey red from being so overwhelmed .
I didn't even glance in the mirror after that . Ace noticed that I was just staring at my hands . He turned on the
hot water and grabbed my hands with his , putting my hands under the hot water . I watched as the blood
turned the clear water a light reddish colour with Ace's soft gaze on my hands . He was so concentrated on
getting the blood off my hands that he didn't even notice I was gawking at him with absolute love . He
grabbed the towel , drying my hands with it while I had a placid expression planted on my face.
I was tired and extremely upset . "Can we go to bed now" I whimpered almost crying again . "Yeah" he
stroked my cheek gently , grabbing my hand and leading me to my bed . He ran into his room and came back
with one of his few jersey's in his hand . I gave him an sad expression as he approached me . He grabbed the
hem of the jumper and lifted it over my head , pulling it off me . "I keep getting blood on your clothes" I
sniffled with a pout . "I keep telling you , these are replaceable but you aren't , nothing could replace you" he
sighed just before pecking my forehead and scrunching his jumper into a ball , throwing it into the laundry
basket behind him . I still had one of his shirts on underneath the jumper .
"You want to take that off ?" he questioned me . "I don't have a bra on underneath" I mumbled softly while
giving him an innocent look . He just gave me a confused face. "I know" he shrugged . "I have seen your
boobs already" he couldn't help but smirk at his sentence . I rolled my eyes before taking off my shirt . Ace
took his jersey and put it over my head , letting it hang from my shoulders after I put my arms through the
massive sleeves that were cut short . It was so big on me yet it fit Ace perfectly .
Ace turned on a movie and grabbed his journal from his bedroom. He never leaves that thing alone , it's like
his most prized possession .
I lay on Ace's chest with our legs intertwined , scrambled in a big mess . I listened to the beat of his heart and
the grumble of his stomach . His heart beat was so constant and rhythmic , it made me feel at peace and
soothed my pain ever so slightly. I know that killing my brother was wrong but I would kill him again if he
tried to take Ace from me . He's the only one who understands my past , he's the only one who stood up to my
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past and put an end to it . He stopped my demons from getting me and I'll love him forever because of it .
Ace was jotting down things in his journal as usual while I traced the outline of his abs with my finger . "I
don't want you to go to school tomorrow" Ace expressed his concern while writing . How could he talk and
write at the same time ? I find that so confusing. "I have to go , my principal gave me a warning and told me
that if I miss anymore days I won't be allowed back to graduate" I whined , pulling myself closer to him with
my arm . He had a crease in his eyebrows while writing which made me curious about what he was
scribbling in there .
"You're principal won't say that to me" He scoffed angrily while continuing to write . "It's okay , I'll go in
anyways , it's pretty easy since I can just sleep if I want to" I couldn't stop the crack in my voice . I hated
being upset but I couldn't stop it . Whenever I'm happy , something ruins it without hesitation. Not even Ace
could make my pout turn into a smile .
He didn't like hearing the crack in my voice , I knew this because he cringed softly at the sound . "You
shouldn't go in Sof" he put on a warning tone but I wasn't able to miss another day of school . I should just
drop out . Something always seems to get in the way of school and if I don't want to be in the house , I can go
to the mall and shop for clothes . Maybe it would be for the best , I mean .... Ace is rich so I don't have to go
to school and get a job but I don't want to take my education for granted . I don't want to waste it but I guess I
can always go back if I want to .
After being silent for a moment, I spoke up . "I think I'm going to drop out" I let the words fall out of my
mouth along with the weight on my shoulders . "Are you sure" Ace asked with a surprised tone . "Yeah , I
may aswell give it to someone who will actually go to school" I shrugged , closing my eyes tight , struggling
not to cry again . I was in so much pain . I wasn't upset because I killed my cruel brother , I'm upset because I
killed the older brother I thought I'd always look up to , the brother who would guide me through life with
ease and care but I was naive to think that of him . I'm upset because I feel like he was still the same 15 year
old boy .
I shut my eyes tight , holding onto Ace who was the only thing I have and will ever truly love . I won't allow
anyone to take him away .

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2 weeks had passed and I was finally feeling better about the whole situation. Of course it took a lot of
reassurance from Ace to realise that I wasn't a monster or that I wasn't like my father , not to mention the
sleepless nights and the nights he had to stay up , cradling me in his arms because I couldn't stop crying . I
can't believe he wasn't tired of me yet , if anything, he's been quite clingy which I find adorable.
I reached over to the side of our bed and grabbed my phone after glancing at the pile of plates , stacked on
my bedside table . Ace had been cooking food and bringing it up to me in hopes that I would eat it , but he
knows I don't eat breakfast and since I was sad , I wasn't really in the mood to eat , so a lot of the time he
would end up eating it instead of me .
Ace had left his journal on his locker , he never leaves that thing out . He probably wants me to read it but
I'm not going to , I won't ever touch his journal, it would be too invasive and rude of me to do . But if he ever
let me , I think maybe I would . Just to see how his mind works . I mean , I know how it works but sometimes
he does things I can't predict , for example at the ball when he saved my life , that's the day I'd love to read .
"How are you feeling?" Ace wandered in with a cup of hot chocolate in his hand. "I feel okay" I gave him a
slight smile . He had been asking me everyday since Raul's death .
"So what did you do with his body ?" I questioned him , wrapping my cold hands around the warm cup
before taking a sip. "I had to send them back the body" he uttered making my heart drop . "Oh" I said with a
sad tone before taking another sip . "They would've known he was dead anyways if he didn't return from a
mission in less then 24 hours" Ace tried to put my mind at ease but it only made the guilt in my chest grow .
"Can I have my knife back ?" I muttered gloomily . "Yeah , of course" he nodded .
I know that he's not the best at consoling people since he was taught only how to hurt and destroy, but he was
trying and I appreciated it. I have to understand that he's still learning how to love and heal, whether he
admits it or not.
"What do you want to eat before I go to work?" He asked while staring at the tv . "No don't goooo" I shrieked
, jumping into his arms on the bed . He let out laugh before I sat on his lap . "You're not allowed leave" I
uttered quietly, snuggling into him and playing with the strings of his jumper . He didn't say anything , instead
he just kissed my cheek repeatedly making me giggle . "I can't believe you're still wearing my jersey , you
must like it" he grinned proudly at his clothes on my body.
"Yeah I do" I didn't notice if I'm being honest . "You can have it back if you want" I shrugged carelessly. Ace
gave me a shocked look , letting his jaw drop slightly . "Do you know how many girls would kill to have that
jersey ?" He flipped up so that he was on top , dominating me . "No" I whimpered with a smile . "Have you
forgotten you're dating the one and only Ace Hernandez" He growled playfully while his face inches closer
to mine before pretending to bite my neck . I shrieked and giggled uncontrollably as I tried to push him away
but he was too strong . He stopped and blinked at me a few times .
"I missed that laugh" he mumbled, his lips inches from mine . "You want to know a secret" I whispered after
I lifted my head up so that my lips were next to his ear . He nodded slightly. "When we kiss on the bed , I get
dirty thoughts too" I spoke with a hushed tone . I saw him bite his lip , trying to hide that he was turned on .
"I have to go to work" he snarled angrily at the thought . "Guess you will have to wait until you get home
then" I smirked evilly knowing it would be torture for him . He shut his eyes and let out a sigh . "Okay I'm
going to work before I can't contain myself" he warned me as I let out a giggle . He shot an evil scowl my
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way making my giggle stop . I knew that when I giggled at him , it turned him on but also made him angry ,
which are two combinations that don't go together with Ace unless I want to be destroyed.
"Okay okay go to work , the sooner you leave , the sooner you'll get back" I smirked at him . He growled
slamming the door on his way out . He gets so frustrated when he's horny , not to mention angry .
——————————
It was about 8pm and Ace still wasn't home yet . "You're so eager for him to come home" Ice muttered before
he took a sip from his beer bottle . "Yeah , he is my boyfriend after all" I shrugged whilst I stared at the tv ,
eating a sandwich. "Ooh you're using the official terms now" Ice teased as he sat next to me . "You're so
drunk , how many of them have you had" I scolded him , trying to take the drink from him. "Like 8 , why does
it matter" he kept the bottle from my reach .
"Because I care about you , in a friend way of course but I still care about you" i grumbled angrily while still
trying to the drink from his hand . Ice let out a sigh before handing over the drink . I stood up and walked
over to the sink , pouring the alcohol down the drain . This stuff has ruined my life already .
"Dante's gone Sof , I don't have my best friend anymore , yeah I have Ace but he's not as close to me as Dante
was . Now I'm stuck with guy who doesn't know the first fucking thing about kindness , Dacre left ages ago
and now it's just me and Ace . Scratch Ace being unkind , he's ignorant, selfish and unemotional. He doesn't
care about me and he never will" Ice rambled ; he kept changing the subject . He was really drunk if he was
dumb enough to tell me this . "I don't know what you see in him Sof , I just don't" He shook his head , letting
it drop in desperation.
I rolled my eyes before walking over to Ice with a glass of water . "Drink this and just so you know , Ace
does care ..... he just doesn't like to show it". "Oh and lets make one thing clear , don't ever speak about Ace
like that around me again , understood ?" I scowled at him . He nodded . "But if you need someone to talk to
or a new best friend , I can be both" I shrugged after sitting down . "You're nice but I don't think Ace would
really allow it" Ice mumbled , falling asleep . "Lie down" I stood up to give him room . "Where are you
going ?" He asked , stretching his legs across the chair . "To workout" I mumbled walking down the hall .

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I wiped the sweat off of my forehead with the towel that was in my hand . I dabbed my neck and collar bones
before dropping the towel off to the side of the room . Ace's gym was fun to use except I couldn't use the
weights since Ace's lightest ones were too heavy for me to use which is kind of embarrassing.
I continued doing squats and listening to music until I felt two hands on my waist as I stood up from my squat
. I screamed and jumped back , quickly realising that it was just Ace . I pulled out my ear phones and stopped
my music . "You scared the shit out of me" . I was out of breath from being scared so bad. Ace couldn't
contain his laughter . "I'm sorry" he chuckled , calming himself down .
His attention turned to his weights . "You use these ?" He asked curiously. No they're too heavy" I muttered
angrily while I stared at myself in the big mirrors on the wall . I watched Ace come up behind from in the
mirror . He placed his hand on my stomach from behind me , placing his head right next to mine . He was tall
and had broad shoulders . My breath hitched as he played with the waistband of my leggings.
"I need to shower" I mumbled quietly to him . "Let's shower then" he spoke with a deep voice as he raised
his eyebrow with a smirk . I know what going with him meant and I am more than okay with that .
We strolled into Ace's bigger bathroom with a massive shower that took up almost half of the room . He
ripped off his clothes with no hesitation and entered the shower , turning on the water that sprayed violently
from the shower head . As I began to undress , I watched him face the shower head and lean his back , letting
the warm water heal his sore wounds . His bruises had started to become lighter in colour rather than the
dark, purply, blue that they were a few days ago . Some of his bruises had little red dots in them , signalling
burst blood vessels . I almost winced when I first saw them. But he looked so relaxed like the water was
medicine for him , soothing his aching muscles and his battered body .
An: Do I even need to warn you guys anymore
The water ran through his hair before he combed it back with his hand so flawlessly . I admired the little
droplets of water that sat on his muscular shoulders . He caught me staring at him , making my cheeks flush a
deep red . "What are you embarrassed about" he turned to me without any clothes on . "Nothing" I mumbled ,
trying to advert my wandering eyes . "I'm your's , you can stare" he shrugged without a care in the world .
"It's only me and you in here" he opened the shower door , approaching slowly . The water from his body
dripped onto the floor , leaving a trail of little puddles behind him .
"Turn to the side" he demanded with a low , husky voice . I did as he asked because I wasn't about to deny
him and get punished . I wonder what would happen if he punished me . He scooped me into his arms, bridal
style and carried me into the shower . "Will this not hurt you ?" I worried for him . He gave me a confused
look before staring at his bruises and cuts . "I'll be more than fine" he spoke with a reassuring tone . I hopped
down from his arms and stood under the steaming hot water . I had to give my body a second to adjust to the
sudden temperature change . I shut my eyes and leaned my head back , letting the water soak my hair . I
opened my eyes to see Ace staring at my body with a look of awe . "Stop staring at me like that" I giggled ,
flicking water in his face with my hands . "I wanna fuck you until you're dripping" he growled standing
inches away from me . I gave him a little smirk while heat rose to my cheeks , turning them a light pink colour
.
I crossed my legs which caught Ace's eye . "Why are you crossing your legs?" He grumbled with his blue
eyes that had now turned a dark blue . "No reason" I mumbled quietly , keeping them closed. "Am I turning
you on?" He smirked while brushing a loose strand of my wet hair behind my ear . "N-no" I stuttered . Fuck .
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Well that was a complete give away .
Ace licked his lips before his attention to my crossed legs , again . He moved so that he was standing behind
me . He pulled me back by my waist so that my back was against his abs. I could feel his growing erection
against my ass . My breath hitched as I tried to squirm as usual but his hands on my waist kept me from
moving . He kissed my temple and then my cheek . His breath hit my neck , making my whole body tingle . I
crossed my legs again , knowing a pool of warmth would be not too far away .
Ace pressed his lips against my neck before slowly letting his hand travel down my stomach. "I know why
you keep crossing your legs Sof" he smirked playfully as I uncrossed my legs . Shit , now he's going to know
when I'm turned on . His hand hovered over my heat . "I want you to ask" he whispered in my ear with a
devilish tone . "A-ask for what" I mumbled quietly , knowing exactly what he wanted . "Ask me to finger
you" he whispered before he nipped my ear playfully .
I gulped while his hand rested just below my stomach . "Ace" I spoke with a hushed tone . "Yeah" he replied
. "Will you finger me?" I felt so dumb saying that out loud but if it turns him on, I guess I'm okay with it . He
started to rub my clit slowly , the pool of warmth spilling out slowly from beneath me . He took two of his
fingers and slowly pushed them inside of me . I bit my lip , trying to contain my moan . He starting pumping
them in and out while his other hand held my waist . I couldn't even feel the hot water rolling down my back
anymore .
My pussy clenched around his fingers making him pump faster . I let a moan escape my lips before I leaned
my head back , resting it against Ace's shoulder . He continued to pump and rub , making my heat wet . He
was good at this , he knew what he was doing . He stopped and turned me around so that I was facing him .
He smashed his lips onto mine . Ace's hands grabbed my ass before I started to kiss his neck , leaving a trail
of hickeys . My kisses travelled down to just below his abs . I was on my knees now and Ace's back blocked
the water from hitting me .

An: Hey guys , hope you brought your holy water . Anyways thank you guys so much for 4 million reads
!!! That's insane . I'm honestly speechless and eternally grateful for each and everyone of you . I have
also made Sofia an Instagram if you would like to follow it . It's called @ Sofiaxdiazzz . Love you all .

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I wrapped my hand around his cock and licked the tip , teasing him evilly . He groaned before I finally
started to suck his dick . I started to pump what I couldn't fit in my mouth before I started bobbing my head
back and forwards making him grunt . He gripped onto the handle of the shower , throwing his head back in
frustration. He placed his hand on the back of my hand , pushing my head forwards, making me take all 8
inches . I gagged repeatedly causing Ace to smile . He likes to mess with me .
I swirled my tongue around his tip , getting a grunt in response before he grabbed my hand , helping me to my
feet . He planted his hands on my ass before he said "jump" . I leaped into his arms and wrapped my legs
around him , his hands supporting my body. I brushed a strand of hair behind my hair . "Can I kiss you?" I
asked him . He nodded , our lips colliding again . He licked my bottom lips for entrance , telling me to open
my mouth . He slipped his tongue into my mouth and his tongue swirled around mine .
While we made out , I realised Ace had started to lower me slowly . He took one of his hands from my ass
and grabbed his cock , placing it right under my pussy . He put his hand back on my ass and started to lower
me onto to it . He leaned me against the shower wall for support as he started to enter me . I moaned in his
ear when he started lowering my body faster , making me take atleast 6 inches of his cock . I leaned my head
against his shoulder as I moaned due to him not stopping . "Can you take it all baby ?" He whispered in my
ear right before I moaned ; I shook my head , no. But he continued anyway . "You can" he smirked evilly ,
lowering me even further . "Ace I can't" I winced , trying not to release my moans . He didn't listen and
before I knew it , he had all of his 8 inch cock inside of me . How did it even fit.
He smirked proudly . "Bullshit" he spoke with a hushed tone . My breath was gone and his next words didn't
help . "I'm going to fuck you so hard , you won't be able to walk out of here" he growled dominantly . I knew
that if Ace hadn't of been holding me up , my legs would've been shaking uncontrollably for the last two
minutes. I'm close to cumming and he knows it .
Ace opened the shower door and stepped out , bringing us into our bedroom that was connected to the
bathroom. "There was no real point of that shower" I grumbled at him . "Nope" he smirked proudly. He lay
me on the bed with him still inside me . He stood up since the bed was level with his waist . The perfect sex
height . Ace placed a hand on my waist and a hand on my shoulder . "You ready ?" He growled , raising his
eyebrows and licking his lips . I nodded gently , heat rising to my cheeks . "Stop acting so innocent" he
scowled pulling out of me . "I am-" I was quickly interrupted by Ace shoving his entire cock inside of me,
making me scream . He grinned proudly as I stared at him with my eyes widened . It felt so good though .
"Tell me to stop" he challenged me . I shook my head. "I'm going to make you beg for me to stop" he bit his
bottom lip . "It won't happen" I was out of breath already ; I think from shock ; maybe fear that he would
actually rearrange my guts .
His dark blue eyes stared at my face as he started to slowly thrust in and out of me . I moaned as my legs
started to shake . "Don't cum Sofia" he groaned while pounding in and out of my pussy . I was dripping at this
point . I moaned loudly , I couldn't care who heard me anymore ; it was so painful but so good. My legs
shook vigorously as I moaned , gripping onto the bed covers and curling my toes . "Don't cum Sofia" Ace
warned me , still pounding into me . Then he took his two fingers and started rubbing my clit , hitting my g-
spot . I couldn't hold back any longer .
I moaned loudly as I orgasmed , my pussy clenching around Ace's throbbing dick . "Fuck Sofia" he grunted as
he continued while my cum slowly leaked out of me ; I felt so good after I came . My knee's were still red
from being on the shower floor .

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Ace grabbed my attention when he pulled out of me and aimed his dick at my stomach . He moaned as he
came on my stomach and chest while pumping his dick with his hand . His eyes rolled as he threw his head
back with pleasure . He eventually stopped and was out of breath ; I could see a thin layer of sweat on his
forehead . "Fuck" he grumbled , lying next to me to catch his breath aswell .
I scooped some of his cum onto my finger and tasted it , knowing that he was watching . His jaw dropped
slightly as he watched me lick my fingers . "Oh you taste good" I said with a happy tone . Ace gave me a
'you're insane look'. "You don't have STD's right" I grumbled while I scowled at him . "No , I got tested after
each one and they had to show me documents that they didn't have an STD" Ace shrugged , cupping the back
of his neck with his hands . "What do I taste like?" He asked curiously, changing the subject . "You taste kind
of salty" I admitted while wondering what to do with the rest of the cum on my breasts and stomach .
"Here" he mumbled , handing over a white towel from the bedroom floor . "Is this your cum towel" I glared
at him as I grabbed it . "No" he smiled with a guilty look . "I can't really say it's gross , I did just eat it" I
sighed , wiping it off me . "Goodbye children" I said after I threw the towel into the laundry basket . Ace
chuckled at my joke .

An: Heyyy guys , hope your holy water didn't run out half way through this

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We lay on the bed and talked for ages . I took another shower , separate from Ace's one of course . The pain
of it hadn't kicked in yet. I came out and got changed into one of Ace's few jersey that I now claim as my own
and slipped on a pair of underwear before climbing into his bed . I think he was in his office , probably
writing about how good our sex was .
A knock interrupted my thoughts . "You can come in" I responded loudly , wondering who it was and making
sure that they heard me . "I got your diary thingy that you wanted and Ace is in his office incase you were
wondering" Terry smiled handing me the notebook . "Thank you Terry" I grinned happily , taking it from his
grip . Terry left , leaving me with my new diary. I stole one of Ace's pens from the drawer in his nightstand
and starting jotting down my thoughts .
Dear myself ,
I feel like writing dear diary is too embarrassing to say so I'm going to write to myself . It's true . Only
my eyes are allowed to read these words on this page and it feels great so far . I see why Ace does this
now and yes he is my inspiration for starting one of these .
I think I need somewhere that I can talk about anything . I can talk about anything to Ace and I know that
but I can't talk about Ace to Ace. He just wouldn't understand and he'd be over dramatic because that's
one of his traits whether he agrees or not .
Recently Raul died and I don't know how to feel. I haven't heard from my brothers since Ace sent the body
back out of respect for them and me . It was kind of him to do that for me , especially since Raul did try
and kill him while we slept . Anyways , for some reason I'm not angry at Raul anymore , it's like when he
died , my anger disappeared with him . It still hurts though .
I'm not upset about 22 year old Raul dying , I'm upset about the 15 year old dying . I remember looking
up to him and the man he was becoming . That 15 year old was still in him , maybe very deep down but he
was there . That's why I'm upset .
But other than that whole incident, I'm okay for the first time in .... years . I'm not hurt and I've gone a
couple of months without being hurt .... actually that's a lie , my father bet the shit out of me like 3 months
ago. Anyways my hand is getting sore . How do I close this off ? Bye .
I shut my journal , admiring the cute pink cover with golden writing . I slipped it under my pillow . I want to
play video games now . I got up and walked over to Ace's Xbox and before I knew it , I was playing a
shooting game . I think it was called Call of Duty or something like that . No wonder why Ace has such good
aim when shooting ; he is level 68 on this game . Okay maybe it's not the same as real life but it's still good .
I started to get really into the game but then I was killed . "ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME" I shouted
angrily at the tv screen , almost throwing the controller across the room . "That wasn't fair , he didn't even
shoot me" I grumbled angrily . I was playing on the easiest level and I still couldn't win .
Ace eventually wandered in . "Why are you yelling?" He asked while staring at his phone . "Shit" I yelled ,
giving up . "Help" I pouted , holding the controller towards him . "You're playing COD" he spoke
surprisingly . "Yep now help , this dude keeps killing me" I hissed evilly at the tv . "Sofia that's you" Ace
grinned while shaking his head . "Oh , well they look like me" I grinned , not being able to hold back my
smile at my own stupidity.

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Ace jumped up next to me , and within 2 minutes , he completed the mission . "What the fuck" I gasped . "Sof
, that's the easiest level" he laughed lightly, earning a scowl from me . "Well it was hard" I hissed, taking the
controller back. "That's enough, I'm over it" I stood up and immediately regretted it. The pain had finally
started to kick in and I knew that in the morning I would be destroyed. My face dropped instantly and Ace
shot me a confused look .
"You good?" He asked as I stood as still as a statue . "Yeah" I replied quickly before sitting back on the bed .
"I'm good" I groaned slightly as I pulled the blankets back over my legs . Ace gave a weirded out look but
quickly brushed it off .
"Look at what I got" I smirked , pulling out my diary . "Copying your very handsome boyfriend I see" Ace put
on a proud tone and raised his eyebrows. "Very handsome yes , copying no , I'd say more like inspired" I
muttered with a grin , sliding the diary back under my pillow . "That's a very good hiding place" Ace said
cheekily . I shot him a glare before he grabbed me , pulling me into his arms . I hummed in satisfaction, the
feeling of love lingering in my chest .
Ace's eyes were closed as he held me tighter . A moment of silence had passed with me and Ace just
cherishing eachother's embrace .
"You know" Ace paused for a moment. "I've never felt like I belonged anywhere. Not at home , not in the
Mafia , nowhere. But now I know where I belong ; I belong with you" he had a certain vulnerability in his
voice while he spoke. I gave him a soft smile before I pecked his cheek and shutting my eyes .

Ace's POV:
She was falling asleep in my arms . I can't deny that I love when she sleeps in my arms . It drives me insane
how I'm her safe place , I'm the place she would run to if the world was going to end . I'm never letting her go
; She can leave me if she wants , and I won't stop her but I'll never truly let her go . I can't erase the love I
feel when she sleeps on my chest or how she looks when she first wakes up or even the way she plays with
her hands ; as much as it annoys me .
But now that I've gotten so used to loving her , that if she ever leaves , I don't know if I'll be able to fill the
hole that will be in my chest. I stroked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear . "I'm sorry for everything
before and everything that might happen , just know , I will love you through all of it" I whispered gently as
she slept on my chest . I got no response but I needed to say it , whether she was awake or asleep.

Yes this was the chapter that was half done and accidentally published and then unpublished so a lot of
people were confused anyways , do any boys/men read my book , I'm just curious ?

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Ace's POV:
I left before Sofia woke up , I didn't need her convincing me to stay home as much as I would like to. I had
shit to deal with at the main base and apparently 'only I could deal with it' as Ice put it.
I strolled down the familiar metal corridors at a steady pace, scanning my hand every 2 minutes. Eventually I
got to the cells, that continued on for what seemed like miles.
"What is it" I snarled angrily. I didn't sleep last night so I was tired , grumpy and annoyed. "You're not going
to like this. One of our guards took a kid from a base raid from one of the smaller Mafia's" Ice opened up the
heavy metal door that let me into one of the hundreds of cells . All I could see was darkness , there was no
movement or light. I glanced at Ice , giving him a confused look. "This isn't funny , there's nothing fucking
here!" I snapped at Ice who then pointed at the back corner of the cell.
In the corner, I could see a little kid curled up in ball. "What the fuck?" my angry, husky voice boomed
through the halls. "We don't take kids, who the fuck did this?" I roared at everyone who were starting to jog
away. "It was some guy called Jason" Ice rolled his eyes. "Did he hurt him?" I tried to calm myself down as
best I could. "No....not that I know of" Ice muttered, afraid to lie. "I'm going to kill that son of a bitch" I spat
between my gritted teeth, clenching my fists. I could feel the anger building up in my chest as the little boy sat
in the corner, not responding to anything, simply just lying there. "You have to talk to him, he won't answer to
us" Ice chirped with a worried tone and left me with the child.
Why the fuck would he leave me with a child!. Is he insane, I'm like the worst person to comfort a child, I
can't even comfort my own fucking girlfri- Sofia!. I pulled out my phone and dialed Sofia's number. "Hey
Terry, bring my girl to me" I said eagerly with my deep voice. I could hear Sofia's voice through the phone
but it was very vague; Terry was probably standing outside my bedroom door.
Just hearing her voice through the phone made me want to go home . It's insane that "She said she's too busy
trying to get passed level two? Whatever that means?" He muttered confusedly. I couldn't stop the small
smile from creeping up on my face. My hand scratched the back of my neck as I stared at the child, something
I do when I'm nervous or stressed. "Tell her I need her" I murmured quietly, not wanting to scare the boy
further. I heard her faint voice through the phone again. "We're on our way now" Terry assured me .
"Aceeee" I heard Sofia say from behind the phone. "That's Ace right?" Her tone becoming bland and
embarrassed incase it wasn't me. "Who else would I be talking to?" Terry spoke with confusion. I feel bad
for him, he probably can't handle her constant energy.
"Yeah it's me" I reassured her through the phone. "I'm coming, wait for me" she sounded focused on the video
game. I could hear her heavy footsteps run ahead of Terry who was shouting at her to slow down. "We're on
our way now" Terry stated. "Okay" I mumbled and then hung up.
About 30 minutes passed and I just sat with the cell door open, watching the tiny boy move every so often .
He didn't even look at me. Fuck, this is why I don't take kids. This is just heartbreaking and my heart is made
out of fucking stone. "Do you want cookies or something?" I grumbled suspiciously, what do kids eat. He
shook his head. "Look kid, I'm not a people person, I don't like people, especially kids but I won't hurt you" I
rambled, not really sure what to say. "I want my mommy" he whimpered softly in the corner.
He can speak. He looks quite young though and now that I'm looking at him properly, he's skinny too. He
looks like he hasn't been fed in days or maybe weeks. "Where were you?" I questioned him, an angry
expression appearing on my face because I was just simply disturbed that anyone could starve a child. We
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have a no child policy so I've never had to deal with children before this. I hate kids, all of them but that
doesn't mean I have a reason to kill them.
"In another one of these" he uttered quickly before turning to me . I could finally see his bright green eyes that
were all red and puffy. "You can come out if you want" I shrugged, sitting on the floor. He shook his head.
"Are you afraid of me?" I asked with a crease between my eyebrows. He didn't respond. "Atleast tell me
your name?" I rolled my eyes with an exhausted expression. He didn't respond again. He had his knee's
pulled to his chest with his arms wrapped around them while he buried his face into his arms. He had light
blonde hair with green eyes. He looked dirty and cold.
He was in another cell before this. He must've been held kidnapped the smaller Mafia before my Mafia came
and destroyed the place. I pinched the bridge of my nose due to stress before glancing back at the child who
was still staring at the floor.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Sofia walking towards us. "Hey beautiful" I smirked while checking her
out. "What do you need, I was busy destroying level two" she bragged with confidence but I knew she was
lying. "Hm that's not what Terry said" I grinned evilly. She gave me the death stare before turning her
attention to the cell. "Why is there-" she stopped speaking as soon as she saw the little boy. "Yeah" I sighed
at her shocked face. "Why is a little boy in the cell?" Sofia stared at me angrily. "I told him he could come
out but he doesn't want to" I shrugged carelessly. All I care about is getting this kid out of my Mafia and back
to whoever owns him.

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Ace's POV:
The little boy's big green eyes glanced up at Sofia. "Hey , what's your name" Sofia spoke with a soft and
gentle tone. "Parker" the little blonde boy whimpered . Sofia sat close to him with her legs crossed and her
back slouched . "I'm Sofia" she smiled slightly before looking back at me. "This is Ace" she pointed at me.
Parker's eyes widened as he leaped into her arms. "Xavier doesn't like him" Parker hugged Sofia, resting his
head on her shoulder. Sofia held him gently while she glared at me.
"Xavier Hart" I clenched my jaw angrily. He was the leader of the Mafia we destroyed. "The leader of the
Reds" I said, informing Sofia while thoughts raced through my head. "Sofia, we should probably talk after
this" I grumbled, my heart sinking for the child. Most of the prisoners we found were dead or severely
starved and injured. I don't think his mom made it.
And just like that, the pain of loosing my mother came back in the blink of an eye, carving a empty hole in my
chest of where her love used to be. She couldn't protect me from my father, she couldn't stop him, but I knew
she didn't like seeing me in pain.
"Earth to Ace" Sofia called out for me. I hummed in response. "Get one of your guards to go buy kids clothes,
Parker's clothes are filthy" Sofia stated before she started talking to Parker, asking him what his favourite
food was.
I strolled out of the cell and down the hall. "Boss, we need you to get answers from a snitch" a random guard
shouted. "Can you not see I am heading your fucking way, there's no need to scream" I roared back at him,
making him almost die of fear. "Where is he?" I growled viciously while walking past the cells. We walked
for a minute or two before we reached the right cell.
"He's in this one" the guard pointed. I entered the cell to see a decently young guy sitting in a chair, strapped
down with chains around his wrists and ankles. I saw the exhaustion on his face, he could barely hold his
head up. "Alright, I'm not in the mood to play fucking games, what Mafia are you from?" I snarled angrily,
grabbing his hair and making him look at me. "Your Mafia" he groaned, his eyes struggling to stay open. I
took a deep breath in and out before I punched him across the face.
"Don't make me ask again" I shouted in face, trying to scare him. "I can't tell you because I don't know" he
cried out in pain. I sighed, shaking my head. "I didn't want to have to do this, but you're not complying" I
gritted my teeth and strutting out of the room. "Get me the blow torch" I demanded to the guard. With no
hesitation, the guard sprinted away to get it.
"For fuck sake" I muttered under my breath, staring at the man who couldn't be older than 21. I may be the
devil and a monster but that doesn't mean I enjoy seeing young people die. I mean who would enjoy seeing
people die? Watching the life drain from a person is scary to watch, even for me. I've killed countless of
times so it doesn't really have an effect on me anymore but when young people die, there's just something so
much more tragic about it.

An: hey guys , I know this isn't a finished chapter but it's all I can write for now. My grandads dying
and I can't write atm. I'm sorry for taking another break. Yeah that's all.
————————
My grandad died so I won't be updating soon . Thank you all for your support.
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The book does continue on.

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Ace's POV :
The guard came back with a blow torch and a glove to make sure I didn't burn my hand. It's not me, he should
be worried about.
I pressed the button on the blow torch and suddenly the blue flames shot out of the nozzle and into the air as I
stood in front of the young man. He's older than me, but still young. I feel a lot older than people my age due
to my maturity and my constant stress, not to mention the empire I'm carrying on my back. "What age are
you?" I asked him with a crease between my eyebrows. "I'm 20" he responded slightly confused. I just
nodded slightly. "I hate to do this but........" I brought the blow torch up to his hand, pressing the buttons to
turn on the blue flame. As soon as the blue flames came out, the man screamed in pain. It echoed throughout
the cells, Parker and Sofia could probably hear it. I watched the man's skin practically melt away as he tried
desperately to pull his arm away. He let out a bloodcurdling cry as I brought the blow torch up his arm,
stopping at his sleeve.
The man was shouting in agony, his whole body began to go into shock from what I was doing to him. He
was shaking relentlessly while pleading for mercy. "Mercy is the one thing I don't give" I sighed as I shook
my head slightly, staring at the helpless man sitting in the chair with his arm burnt. I almost gagged at the
scent of his burnt skin before unbuttoning the collar of my shirt and holding it over my nose. I turned off the
blowtorch letting the man rest, but that didn't stop his screams.
The man pulled at his chains, probably irritating his burns more. "So.....are you going to tell me?" I
questioned while playing with the blowtorch on the wall. "No please" the man sobbed, sweat dripping from
his head. I knew he was on the brink of passing out so I decided to scare him. "You know, I don't usually go
to the stomach so soon, I'll usually burn to the bone, but today I'm feeling extra mean" I grumbled frustratedly
as I ripped open his t-shirt.
"No no no" the man kept repeating. "So who are you snitching to?!" I gritted my teeth as I scowled, leaning
over him and staring straight into his eyes. "No" he spat, making me want to kill him. I clenched my jaw
before throwing a solid punch at him. His face swung to the side due to the impact before yelling again. I
don't understand, he knows he will get some sort of peace if he admits the truth, but won't do it because he
doesn't know what that peace is. Is death really peace?. It can't be worse than this hell hole of a planet.
Maybe it's heaven or hell or maybe it's just an endless dark abyss that our souls travel through, looking for
some purpose. Either way I'm okay with that; Hell doesn't scare me.
"Just confess" I growled, punching him again but this time in the stomach. He grunted painfully, his head
hanging due to his neck not being able to support the weight. "Just say it and I can kill you" I rolled my eyes
whilst I stood infront of the man strapped down to the chair. "No" he spat blood onto the floor. "Well then,
guess I'm going to kill you anyways" I grumbled, taking the gun out of my pocket and aiming it at the man's
head. The man whimpered repeatedly as he waited for me to pull the trigger and within seconds, he was
dead.
I put the gun back in my pocket, whilst staring at the blood dripping from the bullet wound in the man's
forehead. I rubbed my temples soothingly to try and relieve some stress but it wasn't working. "Do you want
me to clean up here boss?" The guard asked, entering the empty room. "Yes" I responded sternly before
walking out and towards the cell Sofia was in with Parker. I stopped at the corner, catching a glance at her. I
swear she gets more beautiful everytime I see her. I stood at the corner, gazing at her while she tried to lure
Parker out of the cell to get food. Parker eventually came out, jumping into her arms yet again.

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I don't like children, in fact, I despise children, but I couldn't help but think what if that child was mine. Half
of me and half of her. The idea didn't make me want to cringe as it usually did, if anything I think I had a
sense of longing for it. I wanted that child to be mine and seeing him in her arms made my heart almost ache
for one. And mostly for her to be the mother of my kid.
She's slowly changing the way I see things, for the better. If you'd of asked me what I thought of children
before I met Sof, I would've told you that I would more than likely put them up for adoption if it ever did
happen. But seeing her with Parker made me want to be a father. How is that even possible, I hate kids?.
Sofia took Parker's hand and started walking in my direction. She was walking weird......oh yeah. She's
probably in pain, shit. I waited for her to reach the corner. She let out a yell when she saw me. "You scared
me" she smacked my arm playfully while Parker coward in fear but was walking with us due to his trust in
Sofia.

An: slow updates.

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Sofia's POV:
I forced Ace to bring Parker home with us. A Mafia base is no place to keep a child. I came into my room to
get changed when I saw a note just laying on Ace's bed but on the pillow I sleep on. I approached it
cautiously, because who knows who wrote it.
I slowly opened it, hoping for the best. I think I had an idea of who it was from.
Dear Sofia,
It is your brother Stefano, the new leader of the Diaz Mafia. I'm writing this to thank you for sending our
brother's body home to us. I am deeply upset about his death but you had your reasons. I warned him not
to do anything stupid and so did the other brothers since we knew this was a war we could not win, even if
we tried. Ace's men are simply too skilled and Ace himself, is the epitome of power. Raul broke into your
house, with the intention to kill, it only seems fair that you had to defend yourself against him .
Raul let the power go to his head. He chose power over family, he chose you over your happiness. If being
with Ace makes you happy my baby sister, I will not stand in the way and I won't let any of the other
brothers either. You are my baby sister and I will protect you always. There is no war or hatred between
our Mafia's. I hope you will forgive our brother for trying to kill the love of your life.
We cremated him and threw his ashes into the lake we used to swim in as kids; To remind us of the better
times, the simpler times.
I would also like to apologize for acting out that night. It was wrong of me but you know family comes
before everything. Ace is your family now and I could see that by the way he fought off five men to keep
you safe in his arms . He doesn't trust us to protect you and I don't blame him, we were cowards who were
utterly scared of our father. We should've protected you...... I should've protected you. I have to go and
train now . I hope to you see again.
Oh and Sofia, even though Ace is bad man, he is a good man to you. I saw this the night he protected you
from us. Don't ever loose sight of that.
Your favourite brother,
Stefano.
Tears welled up in my eyes as I folded up the letter after reading it. Stefano has always been the kindest
brother to me, I guess I just never saw it. "You read it?" Ace muttered, coming into the room. That's how the
letter got here. "Yeah" I sighed wishing I never had because now I feel guilty again.
I pinched the bridge of my nose, letting my head fall while shaking it slightly. "I hate everyone Ace" I said
with a certain vulnerability in my voice. "Trust me, I understand" he muttered as he sat on his bed.
"I don't hate you" I looked up at him, with my eyes that were glossy from reading the letter. "I love you" he
uttered the words so freely now. I liked that he was comfortable using them. "I love you more" I released a
breath after I let out those words. My hands cupped the back of my neck and I looked towards the ceiling,
trying to stop my eyes from welling up with tears.
I heard Ace stand up and walk over to me. He placed his hands on my waist, but moved them up ever so
slightly, letting them rest on my hips. "What's wrong?" He asked with a worried tone. "I don't know who I am
P 84-1
anymore" I let out a sob finally, I had been holding it in for so long. Ace just blinked at me, shocked at where
this sudden burst of emotion came from. But it didn't come from nowhere, I couldn't believe Stefano had
forgiven me. I had spent weeks with this sinking feeling in my stomach that something bad was going to
happen and constant paranoia that my brothers were going to kill me or Ace as revenge for Raul.
But he had forgiven me just like that.
"You think you're the monster?, I am. I don't even know myself anymore, do you even know who I am? " I
snapped, my sadness turning into anger. "I killed my own brother!" I shouted while tears ran down my
cheeks. "I've hurt people who didn't deserve it, just because I was hurt" I yelled at Ace who was just
standing there, unsure of what to do. "My brothers, Haze, Fiona, Nina, Blake and Vince, Olivia, there's
probably more I haven't mentioned." I listed each of them off, counting on my fingers.
Ace grabbed my hand suddenly, with an angry expression plastered on his face. "Your brother's tried to kill
and take you away from me even though you didn't want to live with them anymore. Nina wasn't even hurt by
you, she was only hurt because her brother was hurt. Fiona was rude and narcissistic, don't even get me
started on Blake and Vince although I did let them go, I just never told you. Olivia got Blake and Vince back
so she's happy, and Haze just doesn't get to have you because you're mine so that tough luck" Ace stared me
dead in the eyes. "I know you, I know your heart" he placed his hand in the centre of my chest.
"You're a good person, whether you think it or not, whether you hurt people or not, you'll always be a good
person to me and I will always know your heart" he stopped speaking after finishing and just stared at his
hand that was placed on my chest. "This...." he pointed to my heart. "This is mine" he raised his eyebrows.
"This..." he glanced up and down my body before scooping me up into his arms bridal style. "This is mine, so
don't ever question if I know you" he growled possessively then his voice becoming more softer towards the
end of his sentence.
He held me in his arms as I stared into his eyes with absolute shock. He knew me; all of me.
I kissed his lips softly before pressing my forehead against the side his head. "You know me" I whispered
with my eyes closed, reassuring myself.

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A couple of weeks later, I was sitting in our bedroom.
I was bored and Ace was at work. I lay on my bed contemplating something that had been playing on my
mind. I wanted a child; I really wanted a child. We had to give Parker to the state and he got put into a foster
home. Parker was glued to my hip for the 2 weeks that he was with us and I adored it. It gave me a sense of
purpose, a sense of being needed by someone who wasn't Ace.
Ace paid the police to put Parker in a good home but that didn't make it any easier to give him up. And ever
since, I've wanted a child. But I wasn't sure how to approach Ace about it. I know him better than anyone yet
I'm still very scared to tell him I want a child right now, especially since I'm only 17 and he's 18 going 19
next month. Maybe he'll say yeah but make me wait a bit longer.
So I phoned the person I trust. Ice.
He came up to the room after I called him, telling him to come up to me. "Sofia what is it? I swear to god, if
you want me to paint your toenails again, I'm not doing it" Ice raised his voice after bursting into the room. "I
need to talk to you about something" I spoke gently, showing him my puppy dog eyes. "Oh no, are you
pregnant" Ice gasped, all the colour draining out of his face, leaving it a whitish colour.
"Why is being pregnant such a bad thing!" I exclaimed throwing my arms up in a fit. He glanced at me
worriedly. "Because you're young and have your whole life ahead of you without having to care for a child"
He spoke very quickly, giving me a cautious glare. "Is this what you wanted to talk to me about ? Babies and
kids" He questioned curiously. "Yeah" I nodded. "I mean, I can be the sperm donor if you want, just incase
Ace's sperm doesn't work" Ice grinned evilly. "Stop with the jokes" I rolled my eyes before grabbing a
pillow and burying my face into it.
"Okay fine, tell me what is going on inside that brain of yours and I'll take it seriously" He muttered with a
more calm tone while poking my forehead when he mentioned the word 'brain'. He crawled on to my bed,
and laid next to me while I sat up with my legs crossed, playing with my hands due to my nerves.
"I want a baby; I-I want a child" I admitted nervously. I glanced at him, only to see his face void of emotion.
"I'm not surprised" Ice responded with no hint of shock in his voice. "Really?" I raised my eyebrows in
shock. "Sofia, if anyone knew you well enough, they would say you have a nurturing soul, you just want to
take care of all the people you love or have some sort of a relationship with. Someone who has so much love
in their soul needs somewhere to put it, so no, I'm not surprised you want a baby" he spoke confidently.
"The only issue Ace would have, if he had a child is that he wouldn't be a good father. He didn't have a good
father to look up to when he was young so he has constantly worried that he doesn't know how to be a father.
He knows you want a child Sofia, and him watching you with Parker has made him want one too. He doesn't
want to disappoint the child but mostly he doesn't want to disappoint you" Ice rambled on.
A silence filled the room after Ice stopped speaking. "How do you know this?" I mumbled softly, playing
with the hem of Ace's jersey that I was wearing.
"He brought it up a few weeks ago while we were drunk" Ice snickered slightly, remembering the
conversation. "I don't even know how I remember because I was definitely pass the blackout stage" he rolled
his eyes with a smile. "It must've just impacted me somehow" he shrugged standing up. "Sofia, you're young.
You have all the time in the world to have a child with Ace because I know his dumbass would never leave
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you" Ice spoke with a certainty in his voice.
"I'm not saying don't have a child. I'm saying have one when Ace is ready because you'll always be ready.
You may be my best friend but so is he, and I just don't think he has healed enough yet from his own to father
to be a dad himself" Ice said before leaving the room. He was right. It was selfish of me to want a child
when we're both probably mentally exhausted from our own parents and family's. Not to mention all the crazy
shit that has happened since we've been together.
I want a child, but I want Ace to be happy just as much.
———————————
I bit into my sandwich that I had made whilst Ice ranted about why pineapple shouldn't be on pizza. "So that
brings my side of the argument to a conclusion" he spoke with a happy tone, as if he achieved something. "I'm
not going to lie, I didn't listen to any of that" I smiled evilly at him, earning a glare from him.
Then, I heard the front door swing open and slam shut. My eyes met Ice's before we both stared at eachother
worriedly. "What did you do?" He hissed quietly at me. "Me? What did you do?" I whispered with a crease
between my eyebrows. Ace stormed in, I swear I could see steam coming from his nose and devil horns
growing from his head.
My mouth opened slightly, but Ice kicked my leg, making me close my mouth. We were both confused and
shocked at what was making him so angry.
"Nobody fucking speak to me for the next two hours!" Ace roared at us before storming out. "It's times like
these I miss Dante" Ice sighed after Ace left the room.

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"Should I go up to him!" I asked Ice with a worried tone. "You heard the man Sofia, he said two hours" Ice
uttered before searching through the fridge and cabinets for food. "Ooh cookies" Ice grinned, grabbing the
packet and placing them on the table. As I took a cookie, Ice's phone rang.
"Yeah it's Ice, what's up?" He muttered into the phone while picking up a cookie. I watched the colour drain
from Ice's face, making him look like a ghost. The cookie dropped from his hand to the floor as he listened to
the person on the phone. "You're fucking joking" Ice spat into the phone. His tone changed from shocked to
angry in seconds. "Fucking dumbass recruits" Ice hurler his phone across the room in a fit of anger.
I was afraid to say anything so I just there, staring at Ice with widened eyes. "What happened?" I finally
chirped up after Ice took a few breaths.
"You know those stupid little recruits we were training" Ice snarled while clenching his fists. "They stole
two million worth of stocks, two fucking million" he shouted aggravated due to the whole situation. "How
did they even-" I cut myself off because I didn't want to be shouted out. "What are stocks?" I asked confused.
Ice turned to me and gave me the most judgemental stare I have ever gotten. "You're with a fucking Mafia
leader and you don't know what stocks are?" Ice's eyes widened when he realised I wasn't joking. ".....no" I
uttered quietly, trying to not to laugh at the insane expression on his face. Ice stayed silent before taking a
deep breath in. "Stocks are drugs Sofia" he pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Ohhhh" I replied, really struggling not to laugh at my stupidity.
"You need to go calm him down before he goes on one of his famous 'killing spree's'" he rolled his eyes.
"They're famous?" I questioned with a shocked tone. "No it was sarcasm Sofia, now go" Ice demanded after
glaring viciously at me.
I left the room and headed up towards Ace's bedroom. Would he be in his office? Or his bedroom?. I'll try
the bedroom, I feel like the office would be too much for him to handle.
I was wearing a pair of shorts and one of Ace's few jumpers that he owned. The sleeves were too long and
the jumper was baggy on me but it was really comfortable to wear and not to mention it smelled like Ace so
that was a plus.
The door was shut so I knew he was in his bedroom. I was scared to talk to him since I knew he would be
very angry but he's my boyfriend so he has to listen to what I have to say; Plus I am the Mafia Queen after all.
I rolled up the sleeve and knocked on the door lightly. He didn't respond as usual. I tried to open the door but
it was locked. "Ace Thiago Hernandez, open this door right now" I demanded harshly. "No" he grumbled
loudly so that I could hear it through the door.
"Right now Ace!" I put my hand on the doorknob. After a moment, I heard a click that signalled that he
unlocked the door. I waited a minute before walking in.
When I opened the door, which let out a small creek, I saw Ace sitting on the edge of our bed with his head
in his hands. His elbows were resting on his knees and he looked exhausted as usual. He was wearing his
suit but had loosened his tie ever so slightly and unbuttoned the first button on his shirt; He even had his
shoes on. I could also see his chain around his neck. He never takes that thing off. My bracelet was sitting on
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the nightstand next to him because I didn't like wearing it while I slept.
The room was dim and dark due to the heavy curtains being shut and the only thing really visible was a
candle he had lighted, probably moments before I had come up. I think he preferred to be in the darkness, I
believe he finds it more....calming.
"Two million, two fucking million" he growled, sending his watch flying across the room.
"Ace it's money, at the end of the day you have more than you need. A lot of those kids come from families
who have nothing and I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying I don't think you should be as angry about it as
you are" I mumbled as I approached him.
"You don't get it, I took those kids in, I made them my own, I let them run with the big dogs, they owed me
more than their lives but what do I get in return, two million worth of stocks stolen. And okay then, let's
forget the fact that they stole, my fucking guards didn't do their job. They thought it was completely fine to let
3 sixteen year olds take a fucking truck filled with drugs" Ace shouted frustratedly while glaring at me with
his eyes full of hate.
I just blinked at him for a while after he finished shouting. "You are a millionaire Ace, possibly even a
billionaire, they're just kids" I spoke with a soothing tone as I stood in front of him with my arms crossed to
show him I was trying to make a point. He stared up at me with his big blue eyes. "Find them and punish them
sure, but there is no reason for you to be so angry" I said with a hushed tone as I stroked his cheek.
"They're only kids, Ace" I muttered as I sat on his lap, facing him. His hands instinctively placed themselves
on my waist, pulling me closer to him.
"This is too much, I have a headache" he grumbled, resting his head on my shoulder. I grabbed his face with
my hands gently and forced him to stare at me. I planted a kiss on his forehead, before leaning my forehead
against his.
"Our kids better not get into this much trouble" Ace replied with a certain vulnerability in his voice.

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I couldn't believe he just made that comment. He does want kids but the question is when ?. I know he isn't
ready just yet, but maybe when we're in our 20's.
Ace's birthday is coming up soon and he will be 19. He doesn't know that I know, Ice had to tell me.
Apparently he doesn't like his birthday being celebrated because each year was just going to be a repeat of
the previous one.
Honestly, I have no idea what to get him or what to give to him. I know that he doesn't like people so I was
thinking about keeping it strictly friends and I'm hoping to get Dante to come from California. Their
friendship has really improved since Dante left; maybe Ace realised how much he actually depended on him.
He lay his head on my shoulder as I undid his tie. I helped him take off his flashy black suit jacket along with
his insanely white shirt. I slowly unbuttoned the shirt while he stared in awe at me. His blue eyes were big
and bright even though it was dark in the room and although I could still see the exhaustion on his face, I
could also see the peacefulness washing over him. He was always tired when he got home, no matter what he
did that day.
"How do you not get this shirt dirty, let me in on your secret?" I smiled gently at him with a happy expression
flooding my face. "This is like my twelfth shirt today Sof" he stated while rolling his eyes, struggling to fight
off his grin. "Okay, that does make a lot more sense" I face palmed before he grabbed my wrist gently,
pulling my hand from my face. "Let me see you" he uttered gently, staring into my eyes intensely. I tried to be
serious, I really did but I just ended up giggling due to his intense glare.
I watched his features soften at the sound of my giggle. "I giggle a lot, I'm sorry" I grinned mischievously,
knowing I wasn't sorry. I couldn't take anything seriously but I couldn't care less.
He didn't respond, instead he just nodded slightly before shutting his eyes. He desperately needed rest.
"If you want to have a nap, I can go downstairs" I stroked his cheek. "No it's fine, what time is it?" He
questioned curiously, looking around for a clock. I checked my wrist and Ace shot a me a confused glance. "I
don't have a watch, I don't know why I did that" I grinned as I shook my head. "Where's your bracelet?" he
asked, noticing that I wasn't wearing it and was almost hurt by the fact that I wasn't wearing it.
I pointed to the nightstand next to us, where my bracelet was lying. Ace reached for the bracelet and unlocked
it with his key before clicking it back onto my wrist. He ran his finger over the heart on the bracelet.
"I've given you my heart Sof, please don't break it?" He uttered quietly with his deep voice that was husky
and his face plastered with no emotion except for his eyes. His eyes were full of worry, as if he was
pleading with me not to break it.
I realised that he's never actually loved anything before me. He has never given his heart to anyone due to his
overwhelming fear of someone breaking more than it already was. He has placed his heart in my hands and
trusted me not to break it and I won't.
"Never" I whispered, grabbing his cheeks and squishing them together. I let out a giggle at his face as he
grinned gently at my laughter before he kissed me, our lips colliding, destroying any space that was left
between us.

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"Are you going to nap now, you look tired Acey" I smirked knowing he would hate his nickname. "Don't call
me that" he growled, standing up. I shrieked, clinging onto him like my life depended on it. He threw me over
his shoulder, letting me dangle. "Ace put me down" I shrieked holding onto his suit trousers. He had one hand
up around my waist, holding me in place on his shoulder while unbuttoning his suit trousers with the other.
The trousers fell to the floor and he stepped out of them before throwing me onto the bed.
"We're not having kids yet but that doesn't mean we can't practice" he smirked evilly. I could only imagine
what goes on inside his head and not the one in his underwear because I know what comes out of that. "As
much as I would love to practice, you need to sleep Ace" I glared at him from the bed. "But I don't want to"
he groaned, throwing his back angrily. "Come onnnnn, lie down" I held my arms out. I could see him debating
it in his head.
"Fine" he groaned angrily, climbing onto the bed and into my arms. He rested his head on my chest while his
arm wrapped around my stomach. His grip was tight but gentle, almost like he was afraid to break me. I ran
my hands through his hair, watching his eyes become harder to open after he blinked. "I love you Sof,
always" he mumbled half asleep. "I love you too" I whispered, stroking his cheek with my thumb. Eventually
his eyes shut and he was asleep.
I waited a few minutes before worming my way out of Ace's tight grip. I needed to talk to Ice to make
arrangements for Ace's birthday that he didn't know I knew about. I glanced at Ace one last time before
leaving his room. I'm the person who knows him the best in the world and I have no idea what to do or get
him for his birthday. Not to mention he already hates it so I have no clue how to make this day enjoyable for
him.
I wandered into the kitchen to see Ice finishing his cookies. "Where's Ace?" He asked curiously but also
careless at the same time. "Asleep" I murmured before sitting across from him. "What are we going to do for
Ace's birthday?" I sighed, shaking my head.
"I know exactly what to do" Ice glanced at me with a excited expression flooding his face.

Thank you all for 8 million reads! I'll never get used to this . I'm extremely grateful for all of you
guys.

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"What should we do then?" I asked Ice, clearly stressing out due to my lack of idea's for Ace's birthday.
"Ace has always wanted to get away from the Mafia but he's never really had the chance since he's the leader
of one so I was thinking that you could take him on a holiday. I'll handle things with the Mafia over here until
he gets back or else he can put someone else in charge, I don't mind, either way he'll enjoy being away,
especially if it's with you" Ice explained.
It wasn't a bad idea. I know that Ace can be very stressed out sometimes due to it so maybe sometime away
will let him destress for a little bit.
"You decide where you guys go but you also have to decide what present you're going to get him because of
course, I can't do that for you" he grinned at me before shoving me slightly. "What was that for?" I glared at
him. "I don't know, I'm in a playful mood" Ice walked out.
Ice was becoming the brother I always wanted. Yeah, he's annoying and really irrational sometimes but
overall he just wants the best for the people he cares about.
I can tell that Ice is missing Dante, probably more than he would've because Ice is getting all of Dante's
unfinished paperwork now, but I think he also just misses one of his best friends. Plus I think Ice also wants a
break from Ace.
Now I had to think about where I wanted to take Ace. He's a very complicated man, always stressed, never
smiling, not simplistic. So maybe I shouldn't think too hard about where to take him. I should take him
somewhere simplistic with no distractions. I feel like Ace would love Hawaii. There's something about him
that seems like he would really like it over there.
He told me one night that he loves to swim because it's soothing for him. He doesn't get to do it often since
he's always working. So maybe if we rented a little beach house next to sea, he would enjoy it more. Then
when he comes back, Dante and Ice will be waiting for him and they can have their guys night.
But I have no idea what to get him for a present.
I'll think about it later when I'm booking the flights and renting the house.
———————————
Ace's POV:
I had woken up from my nap and Sofia was no longer lying in arms. I sighed before grabbing my journal,
realising that I hadn't written anything today. I was in a bit of a grumpy mood as usual but that didn't stop me
from writing.
Today was a stressful day as usual, Ice has learned and informed me that my father was camping out in
one of my many houses. It was hours away but at least now I can keep an eye on him from afar.
I still do not forgive him for what he did to my mother, I don't think I ever can, it was the worst act of
cruelty he had ever done to me. He killed her to punish me for loving a woman; A woman I could not
control loving. I wasn't able to hide the fact that I was falling for Sofia in front of my father and he hated
the idea of Sofia turning me soft. I'm not soft, if anything I'm just as strong as before; more mentally
stable than before. I'm more forgiving now.
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I've sent my men to take away his basic supplies and turn off the water. That home will become his cell. I
will let him starve and dehydrate as a punishment for what he done to my mother. Then I will go to the
house and slit his throat.
He was afraid of Sofia turning me soft, I'll show him just how merciless I can be while I'm with Sofia. I
can't wait to wrap my hands around his throat and watch the life start to slowly drain from his face
before I take a knife and end him once and for all.
I'm getting revenge for all the mental abuse he put me through. I'm getting revenge for the multiple times
he would throw me in a room when I was 15 and let boys my age, beat me until I screamed for my father
to come back help me. He used to do this to show me that I will always need him; now he is the one who
will need me.
I wasn't finished writing but Sofia had come back into the room. "What time is it ?" I asked with a grumble
before pulling a pillow over my face. "You slept for roughly an hour so it's 10pm" she replied, sitting on the
edge of the bed with most of her back to me but at an angle that I could still see her face.
She looked irresistible. Her dark brown hair was shoved up into a messy bun and her light brown eyes
glistened due to the light that peaking in at her through the door. She was holding her journal as she jotted
something into it. I watch a loose strand of hair that she had tucked behind her ear, fall to the side of her face.
She was flawless to me; she was just perfect.
I noticed the baggy jersey hanging slightly off her shoulder and the shorts that were barely visible due to how
long and big my jersey was on her.
I slowly moved towards her before pressing my lips against her naked collar bone. I watched squirm and
tell me to stop but not push me away. I gently kissed her neck and then her cheek, making her blush slightly as
she tried to concentrate on what she was writing.
"Do you want to go get food?" I whispered in her ear, finally getting 100% of her attention. "Yes" she smiled
as her eyes lit up with curiosity. "What food do you want to get?" I asked with a hushed tone. "Mc Donald's"
she grinned evilly. I rolled my eyes before standing up and walking over my dresser. I put on a new set of
clothes before glancing over at Sofia who blushed when I caught her staring at me.
"Are you ready?" I asked curiously, glancing at her up and down. "Is this not good enough" she looked down
at my shirt that she wearing. "No, you're perfect" I muttered while I shrugged walking out and downstairs
before grabbing my keys. I stood at the door waiting for Sofia who came downstairs shortly after me.
"Ice we're leaving for a bit, don't burn the house down" I shouted. "Can't promise anything" he roared back
from somewhere in the house.

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It was 10:30 pm by the time we reached Mc Donalds and I was like a giddy little kid who had just been
given chocolate for the first time.
"What do you want?" Ace questioned as he rolled down the window and rested his arm against the brim of
the car's window frame. "Chicken nuggets" I mumbled while I stared down at my feet. He ordered the food
and collected it from the drive thru. I held the food as he pulled into a pretty empty parking lot.
Ace got out of the car and gave me a mischievous smile before climbing onto the car bumper. I didn't even
question what he was doing, instead I just watched. I saw him walk up his car until I could only hear his
heavy footsteps on the car roof.
It was the middle of May now so it was decently warm outside; It was probably the reason why he wanted to
eat outside at almost 11pm.
I opened the car door and stood outside, breathing in the fresh air. I felt like I hadn't been outside in years.
I climbed onto the car with the Mc Donald's in one hand and Ace's hand holding the other, helping me up so
that I didn't slip while walking on the windshield. I sat at the top of the car, next to Ace who was staring up at
the stars.
I turned my attention to the star lit sky. "Which one is my star again?" I asked curiously. "I have no idea" Ace
spoke with a little grin. He was happy tonight which I liked but wasn't normal. "What's got you in a good
mood?" I chirped before opening the bag of food and pulling out my chicken nuggets. "I don't know" he
shrugged as he reached for his food.
We sat on the car and ate our food. I felt full, almost like I was going to pop. "Ace, I think I'm going to
explode" I grumbled while I lay down on top of the car. He gave me a cheesy smile and continued to eat his
food. I watched as he munched on the fries, looking very pleased with his decision to go get food.
"I don't do this often you know" He spoke up with a gentle but guilty tone. "Don't do what?" I questioned him
as I stared peacefully at the glistening stars above. "I don't...you know...go out for food and stuff" He
muttered before giving me a worried glance. "Do you mean a date?" I uttered, turning my attention towards
him. "Yeah I mean dates, I'm not good at them hence why we never go on any and just stay inside and watch
movies all the time" Ace rambled but I could sense a hint of anger in his voice.
"Does that upset you?" I questioned him, wondering why he was telling me this. "Yeah, you deserve better
than me, someone who will take you on dates all the time and give you all their attention instead of spending
it working or sat a desk signing his name onto stupid pieces of paper that won't matter in a year" he
expressed before running his hand through his hair due to stress.
I just let out a giggle and he shot me an offended look before crossing his arms and resting them on his knees
stubbornly, almost like a child and turning away from me.
"No no baby, I wasn't laughing at you, I was laughing at your thoughts because you're overthinking and also
because you're the best anyone could possibly get" I muttered with a smile as I sat up and moved beside him.
I threw my arms around him and kissed his cheek repeatedly before he eventually caved in and kissed me
back. One of his arms held my side which also allowed him to pull me closer to him if he desired.

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"I love you" he whispered and planted a kiss on my forehead. "I love you the most" I beamed happily. "We
could run Sof" he spoke in a hushed tone as if it was a secret. "We could run and never look back" he
muttered gently while staring at the floor. "Why the sudden change of heart?, you know we will die if we run"
I replied, staring at Ace who just let out a sigh. "I love you more than anything, I want to have a family with
you without having to worry if someone is going to try kill us every 5 minutes" Ace ranted angrily. "We won't
be having a family for awhile but that doesn't mean we can't spend a few years with just each other" Ace
rambled before forcing himself to calm down.
I just blinked at him. I mean what was I supposed to say since I didn't know he hated being in the Mafia that
much.
He stayed silent for a moment, letting the gentle breeze soothe his anger. "Ok, I'm good now" he reassured me
as he continued to eat his food. "How are you- I'm so confused" I questioned him. "Sometimes I want what I
can't have so I have to ask myself if it's actually possible and it's not" he glanced at me with no expression.
"So I get over it and move on, I like to call it my momentary weakness" he mumbled as he finished his food.
Ace has always been very mature for his age. He's turning 19 yet he acts like he's 30 probably due to the fact
he carries a whole Mafia on his back. Most of the time, he wants things but can't them have because of the
Mafia but I couldn't help him even if I wanted to.
I got distracted from my thoughts when Ace's phone got a notification.
Ace pulled his phone out of his pocket and read the text. "They've cut off water supply to the house my father
is staying in, they're going to raid it now and steal the food" he announced to me before getting down from the
car roof and throwing our rubbish in the trash.
"As much as I've enjoyed this, it's time to go" he said with a serious tone. I was happy I got him for a few
moments while he was happy and not stressed out about something.
Thank you guys so much for 10 million reads, this is insane! I love you all and I hope you are staying
safe - A

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A week had passed and it was the day of Ace's birthday. He really left for work without telling me that it
was his birthday?. I understand that he probably hates his birthday but couldn't he at least of told me?.
I began to pack our stuff and Ice came in to help. We talked for awhile after two hours, we finally finished.
"Why did that take us so long?" I uttered, lying on top of my suitcase. "I have no idea but I'm never offering to
help you again" he replied, flopping on Ace's bed. I giggled at him before also climbing onto the bed.
Ice sighed as if he wanted to say something. "What?" I glanced at him worriedly. "I want cookies" he
mumbled a smile appearing on his face. "What- I thought something was actually wrong" I playfully punched
him. "Ok ok, seriously, I think I'm going to miss you and Ace" he almost whispered as if he was ashamed of
saying it. He obviously saw my face light up and blushed slightly as he rolled over so that I couldn't see his
face anymore.
"I'll miss you too Ice" I grinned as I jumped on him, attempting to give him a hug. "Get off of me" Ice
grumbled, trying to push me off but I wouldn't budge. "Alex needs a hug" I giggled, knowing he hated being
called by his real name. "Don't call me that" he hissed but had stopped fighting me. He eventually caved in
and hugged me back for a second; I know Ice doesn't have family and doesn't really get a hug that often so I
decided to give him one. I think he needed it.
"Ice isn't so cold after all" I mumbled, standing up and walking over to the door. "You're so dead" Ice yelled,
chasing after me. "I'm sorry, I take it back" I shrieked, running downstairs.
—————————
Ace came home because Ice called him, saying that he needed him for something.
I struggled to get the suitcases down the stairs but I managed somehow. "Why didn't you help me? You're
stronger than me?" I grumbled, hitting Ice playfully knowing it wouldn't hurt him. "Ow, my arm" he glared at
me. "That's what you get for not helping me" I hissed as I sat down at the table in the kitchen. "I didn't help
because I wanted to watch you struggle" he smiled evilly before looking through the fridge for some food.
"You're always hungry" I muttered. "Yeah well-" Ice was interrupted by Ace coming in. "Why is there
suitcases in the hall?" Ace asked with a curious tone before coming over to me and pecking me on the lips.
"We're going to Hawaii and we're leaving in literally 10 minutes" I uttered as I checked the clock on the
kitchen wall. "Hawaii?" Ace tried to fight the smile off of his face. "Yes, Hawaii" I smiled while I watched
Ace's face flood with happiness.
"I've always wanted to go to Hawaii" He replied walking out to the hall and staring at the suitcases. "You
had no clothes for a holiday so I had to make Ice go shopping for you" I said loudly so that he could hear me.
"Yeah, I didn't enjoy it" Ice shrugged before he shut the fridge door and leaned against it.
We heard the beep of the taxi.
"We have to go now" I muttered, grabbing the passports off of the table and running out to Ace who had
opened the door. He carried the suitcases to the taxi as I hugged Ice goodbye. "Please don't destroy the
house" I begged. "Why does everyone have such little faith in me?" He grumbled, crossing his arms angrily.
"You earned your reputation" I grinned cheekily. I walked towards Ace but then heard Ice yell and tell us to
wait. I glanced at Ace confused and he responded with "Its Alex, who knows what he's doing". Fair point.
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Ice's head peeped out around the door. "Catch" he smiled mischievously, throwing something at Ace. He
caught it and held it in his hand. "My boomerang, you did fucking steal it" Ace yelled at him as I got into the
car. "We were 11, plus I gave it back now so technically I only stole it for 7 years and 6 months" Ice shouted
back. Ace chuckled and got into the car while I watched Ice shut the door.
"The Airport?" The taxi driver asked. "Yes please" I replied.
—————————
After a gruelling flight and drive, we made it to our hotel.
"It's only 5pm, do you want to go to the pool?" I asked Ace who was sitting on the bed, observing his
boomerang. "Yeah, sure" he uttered, getting off of the bed and putting down his boomerang. "I still can't
believe he stole it, I thought I lost it" He spoke confusedly before grabbing his light blue swim shorts and
walked into the bathroom to get changed.
I got changed into my baby pink bikini.
I was standing infront of the mirror that was facing our bed when Ace walked out. His eyes instantly darted
towards my body and he raised his eyebrow. "You look sexyyy" he grinned as he walked over to me and
hugged me from behind. I stuck my tongue out at him in the mirror and he scrunched his face.
"Okay let's go" he pointed at the door with one hand and slapped my ass with the other. "Owie" I muttered,
attempting to hit him back playfully but he caught my hand and then my other hand. He held onto my wrists
before pecking my forehead and leaving the hotel room. I grabbed the towels and chased after him.
"Hold your towel, I'm not your servant" I chirped jokingly as I threw his towel over his head. He threw me
glare before I spoke again. "Oh wait, it's your birthday, I'll carry it" I said as I took the towel back off of him.
"I worry about you" he shook his head.

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We had gotten back to the hotel room after swimming for awhile in the pool.
"I was going to punch the lifeguard" Ace grumbled as he dried his hair with a towel because he had just
finished his shower. "Why?" I questioned from the bathroom as I used the hair dryer because I had also had a
shower. I turned off the hair dryer and headed from the bed. I sat cross legged with a baggy jumper to keep
me warm. "The fucking lifeguard's eyes were glued to your body the entire time, I wanted to scoop them out
of his head" he muttered, before coming over and sitting next to me on the bed.
"Now what?" He asked.
I thought to myself for a moment. It's 8 pm, that's late enough.
"Sit here and wait" I demanded as I walked back into the bathroom.
I came out 5 minutes later, wearing a new set of lingerie that I had bought especially for Ace. It black and red
with a lace material. I could also show him his birthday present now.
Ace's eyes instantly darkened with lust as I opened the bathroom door, revealing my surprise; I walked
towards him. His mouth opened slightly in shock. I mean, what was he expecting?. I sat on his lap and faced
him; His hands were resting on my lower back and his eyes were glued to mine. "I'm surprised you haven't
noticed it yet" I uttered as I leaned into his ear. "Notice what?" He mumbled before spotting it.
His finger brushed against the tiny tattoo on my chest, just above my heart; It was an ace symbol. "I do not
belong to you, but my heart, my heart belongs to you" I whispered. "Happy birthday Ace" I mumbled as his
eyes locked with mine and he leaned in for a kiss. He placed his hand on the back of my neck, pulling me into
a kiss. He used his other hand that was resting on my lower back, to pull me impossibly close to him. I could
feel him getting hard under me.
He slipped his tongue into my mouth as we kissed and I followed his lead. The started to get rough and quick,
showing me that he was horny. He stood up, lifting me with him while also making sure he didn't break the
kiss and placed me on the bed. I grabbed the hem of his shirt and pulled it up and over his head, throwing it
to the side. He struggled to take off my lingerie as we kissed so he broke the kiss to focus. I helped him take
it off and he threw the lingerie off to the side. He quickly stripped himself, wasting no time.
His kissed travelled from my lips to my neck, leaving a trail of hickeys. He ran his finger from my lips, all
the way to my heat. My breath hitched as he rubbed me, making sure I was wet; A grin appeared on his face.
He teased me by rubbing his tip against my heat, making my cheeks flush. "I skipped the pill" I mumbled as I
handed him a condom. He raised his eye brow before whispering in my ear "As you wish". He rolled on the
condom and positioned himself the same way he was previously.
He placed the tip inside me, but I could tell I was tight which meant I probably wouldn't be able to walk
tomorrow. He grabbed my hip with his left and my shoulder with his right. He slowly thrusted into me,
making me moan slightly. "Fuck Sofia, you're nails" he grumbled as his muscular body leaned over mine. I
hadn't realised I was digging my nails into his back, I tried to stop but it was hard. He started to thrust deeper
and harder. I moaned repeatedly into his ear. "You're driving me crazy Sof" he grunted as he slowly thrusted
in and out of me, changing his pace.

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"You're so tight" he whispered, quickening the pace. He started to pound into me, not holding back. Multiple
moans escaped my lips as he continued. He started to rub my clit with two of his fingers as he relentlessly
pounded into me. He hit my g-spot repeatedly. "Ace-" I moaned. "Cum for me" he grunted as he continued. A
feeling of pleasure rushed through my body as I let out a moan. Ace watched me as I came, thrusting in and
out of me; my back arched with pleasure while I gripped the side of the bed with one hand and clawed at his
back with the other. His chain was dangling from his neck as he hovered over me.
"I want to try something different" he muttered in my ear after I finished. He flipped us so that I was on top
and he was lying down. "I don't know how to do this" I muttered as my cheeks flushed again. "It's okay, just
follow my hands" he muttered as he placed his hands on my waist. I slowly went down on his dick. "Now
start moving up and down" he grumbled; I did as he said. I started to bounce up and down and I saw Ace's
eyes roll with pleasure. He started thrusting up as I came down. I think he was close to finishing.
He ran his hand through his hair frustratedly. "I can't finish" he growled angrily. "Try grinding" he mumbled,
he showed me how to move my hips. I watched his mouth open as he released a moan; I don't think I've ever
heard him moan before.
I began bouncing again and his whole body stiffened. A pool of warmth spilled out from beneath me and Ace
could probably feel the warmth. His legs tensed up as a frown appeared between his eyebrows as he grunted.
"Cum for me" I whispered as he moaned. I felt warmth fill the condom as I grinded against him. He kept his
eyes shut but tilted his head up in pleasure. I kept grinding until he stopped me with his hands. "Fuck" he
released a breath.
An: you guys asked and I delivered. If it's cringy well rip.
-
Not everything is as it seems. I'm not choosing not to wr ite because I'm ' lazy ' . I am a human, we are
all people. There's always more than what you know. I am not busy, I chose to make up an excuse for
what really happened because I don't have to share everything online. Please don't be ignorant to us
authors, we are people and we go through things too.

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Our week in Hawaii was up and I could tell Ace enjoyed it a lot.
We were on the plane back home but little did Ace know I had one last surprise waiting for him at home.
"Do you know how hard it was to hide that tattoo from you?" I grinned evilly. "No?" He mumbled, flicking
through his phone. I took out my phone and got a picture of him. He gave me a glare. "Oh come on, get in one
with me?" I pleaded. I had very little photos of me and Ace together because he doesn't like to take photo's.
Not to mention he's probably the most wanted man in the world but what I can I do about it?.
"I was actually wondering, how do you stop the cops from arresting you?" I asked curiously as I scrolled
through my phone. "I pay them, plus it's not like they can just storm in and take me, I'm the Mafia king, I have
people who work in the police force from my mafia" he explained staring out the window of the airplane.
"Yeah that's true" I mumbled, resting my head on his shoulder.
"I won't be home for a few day's when we get back" he warned me suddenly. "What are you going to do?" I
replied, a crease appearing between my eyebrows due to my confusion. "I'm going to kill my father, but I
have travel for a bit before I reach him" he mumbled, his head now resting against mine. "I'll be leaving you
at the airport with Ice and he will bring you home with multiple guards" Ace informed me. "You have to call
me at least once everyday until I get back and text me regularly with updates" he demanded.
"I'm just hoping Ice doesn't do anything stupid while I'm home" I smiled, closing my eyes.
Not long after I fell asleep.
I woke up to Ace tapping my shoulder and telling me that we had landed. He took our suitcases and we
entered the airport after going through security. Ace's tan had gotten darker due to the constant sun in Hawaii
and my hair had lightened slightly. Ace's darker tan just made his eyes more noticeable than before. Ace's
chain around his neck had left the skin under it a lighter shade of colour since he refused to take it off.
As we were walking through the airport, I spotted Ice standing at an escalator. Not long after he spotted me
and Ace and I've never saw a happier expression on his face. "Ace and Sofia" he cheered running up to us
and instantly jumping into my arms. "What happened to you hating Sofia?" Ace glared at him. "She grew on
me" he grinned, hugging me tighter than before.
There was no romance or tension between me and Ice, we were simply best friends now. I've started seeing
the brighter side to Ice and the undying loyalty he has for his friends. Secretly Ice was a good person, even
though he's done some messed up things. I've forgiven him for everything before, mainly because I know now
that he was afraid I was going to destroy Ace.
"I have to go on another fucking plane; Sofia be careful" Ace warned me before grabbing my face gently and
kissing me. "And you, protect her with your life if anything happens, that's a demand" Ace ordered while
pointing at Ice. "It's rude to point" I uttered in a cheeky tone as Ace walked away from us.
"Okay now that he's gone, I did a bad thing" he clenched his teeth while he stared at me with widened eyes.
"Oh no, what did you do?" I spoke with a bland tone as I shook my head. "You'll see once we get home" ice
mumbled, leading me out of the airport.

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We hopped in a taxi and eventually reached home.
Ice carried in my suitcase and as I entered the house, Ice yelled and I saw the tiniest husky puppy run up to
Ice. My jaw instantly dropped at the sight of the puppy. "Ace is going to kill you" I laughed as I petted the
small puppy. It was just a massive ball of moving fluff. "His name is Flash" Ice stated proudly as he lifted the
puppy into his arms.
"Flash's eyes are a light blue, almost like the colour of Ice, get it" I mumbled with a grin. "That was so bad,
please never say that again" Ice glared at me and I couldn't help but laugh. "Ice where have you-" I heard a
familiar voice say. "DANTE" I shrieked, running up the stairs and into his arms. "Sofia" he uttered, hugging
me tightly.
"How are you? How have you been?" I questioned him eagerly, wanting to know the answers. "I've been
good but running things back at the base has been challenging, I can't lie. I don't know how Ace does it" he
shrugged. "Oh yeah, speaking of Ace, you guys have a few days to set up for your guys night since he's gone
to kill his father" I rambled carelessly while walking down the stairs.
I glanced back at Ice and Dante who just stared at eachother with widened eyes. "Oh shit, did he not tell you
guys?" I muttered, wanting to punch myself. "No he didn't but his father deserves it so I don't blame him" Ice
grumbled while petting his puppy.
Flash barked happily and tried to bite Ice. "Ah you little shit" Ice growled at Flash who had rolled onto his
back with his four paws in the air and tongue hanging out of his mouth.
"Well I'm happy that mother fucker is getting what he deserves. He killed my girlfriend" Dante shook his
head, not wanting to remember that night.
"I have a question" I muttered suddenly to Dante who stood on the end of the stairs. "Yeah?" He replied with
a curious tone. "How could you tell me you loved me, if the girl you actually loved died not long before?" I
asked, hoping that my question didn't sound too insensitive.
"Well I guess I never really loved her but that didn't mean that she deserved to die or that I'm not sad that she
died" Dante spoke with a hint of sadness in his voice. "Oh okay" I nodded. That made sense to me.

Thank you all for being so patient with me and my posting. I apologise for the long wait.

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Ace's POV:
I approached the house my father was staying at; Well not willingly staying at anyways.
We had barricaded him in the house and took out all of his personal guards. We turned off the water supply
and raided his house for food. We would turn the water on once every two days, just to keep him alive and
we would send him in food.
"We're here Boss" my chauffeur informed me after opening the car door. "Thank you Markus" I spoke,
shaking his hand. "You don't use my skills that often boss, it was my honour" he responded with an optimistic
tone. I gave him nod before I began to walk off. "Be careful boss" Markus warned me, giving me a smile. "Of
course" I mumbled as I walked up the long driveway to see my guards standing at the door.
I took off my suit jacket and unbuttoned the sleeves of my shirt.
I had changed my original idea from getting my guards to strap him to the chair to fighting him alone in the
house and then killing him.
I need to release the built up anger I have slowly let grow over the past few months. I have been holding back
my emotions for Sofia but she won't be here to witness me at my worst.
I never liked my father. Never. He made my childhood a nightmare every single day. I remember when I had
just turned 13 and I was crying because I was getting bullied in the private school I was attending. I had
never went to school before this and refused to go after a week of being there. I cried to my mom about how
they were being mean to me and suddenly my father barged in. He told me to get up and follow him. He took
me into a room full of boys who were sons of multiple Mafia men and locked me in the room with them.
They kicked and punched me until I was on the floor, on the brink of death. I can barely remember lying on
the floor but I can remember desperately trying to fight back. I also remember my mom picking me up in her
arms and carrying me out to the ambulance. We would always have to use fake names when we went to the
real hospital.
My father said he locked me in the room with them to teach me strength and how to fight back. Instead it left
me with severe trauma until I was 16 and I never complained about anything since. I've had to learn lessons
the hard way in life due to my father and each lesson was tougher than the last.
"He's inside lying on the kitchen floor boss" my guard informed me before I placed my hand on the door knob
and twisted it open. The door slowly creaked as I entered the house. It was so silent in the house that you
could hear a pin drop and the furniture had dust on it from not being used in so long.
I walked into the kitchen to see my father lying on the kitchen floor; as the guard had said. He looked skinner
than usual due to the fact that we had starved him for a few days before giving him food. It was cruel but it's
what he deserved.
My father glanced up at me from the floor and just sighed. "My own son" he attempted to shake his head but
he was too weak. Well there goes the fight I had planned; although I should've known he would've been too
weak.
"My own son has turned against me and is now going to kill me" I could tell he was putting on an act because
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of his sarcastic tone. "If you're going to put on an act, at least do a good job" I scoffed, grabbing a chair from
the kitchen and placing it in the centre of the living room.
The two rooms were connected without a wall so it was basically a big open space; just what I needed.
I walked over to my father and grabbed him by his shirt, viscously dragging him over to the chair and forcing
him to sit on it. I searched through the presses in the kitchen and found a knife. A little blunt for my liking but
it will do.
I heard a knock on the door and a guard popped his head in. "Boss I don't mean to alert you but an unknown
truck has pulled up with what we're assuming is men inside" the guard spoke urging me to come help. It's
ridiculous that I'm the one who has to be protected even though I'm the best fighter.
"Don't you fucking move" I snapped at my father and stabbing the knife through his hand and into the wooden
chair. My father let out a scream in pain as I took my suit jacket off; but then his scream turned into a laugh.
"You'll never be able to kill me Ace, I'll always have people working for me" he grinned. I turned to the
guard. "Put him in the fucking bedroom and lock the door" I snarled viciously. "You're not going to win Ace,
not this time. They've trained longer and harder than you" my father grumbled from the chair.
I let out a chuckle. "I don't think you realise that I never loose" I smirked before walking out. I looked down
the long driveway to see the truck and my guards surrounding it.
Suddenly the back of the truck began to lift. I continued to walk towards it and there was only one man in the
truck. My guards stared at each other confusedly. I was half way down the driveway when the person threw
something out of the truck and shut the back of it.
Within seconds a massive explosion had happened and I was on the ground with massive cuts and scrapes,
burns and bruises. All I remember was being thrown back from the force of the explosion. I glanced down
the driveway at my guards who were all more than likely dead. I grunted as I looked at the massive gash in
my chest. I was missing a shoe and was currently wishing I had kept that jacket on. I could feel a cut under
my eye and another on my opposite cheek.
I tried to move but a sharp pain shot through my body; more than likely from the wound in my chest but I
refused to let my father live another day. I pushed through the pain, barely able to stand and walked up the
driveway. I had been pushed back almost to the top of the driveway. There was damage to the house and the
windows had been shattered. I think he put glass in the bomb. My father must've planned this and had a button
somewhere that he pushed to alert them.
I struggled to reach the door without fainting but I did it. I wasn't sure if I even had the strength to run the
knife along his throat. I gripped onto to anything that could hold me up. I grunted as I reached kitchen table. I
grabbed the bottle of alcohol that was on the table and drank as much as I could. My guard walked out of the
bedroom and his eyes were instantly glued to my gashes and burns. His eyes widened as he ran over to me.
"Are you ok boss?" he asked frantically. Well the answer to that would be very clear given my current state.
"Give me the knife" I hissed between my clenched teeth.

The end is near.

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Rage was flowing through my blood as if I was rage itself. I was reaching the peak of my anger, every ounce
pain that I was feeling was all being turned into fury.
Every breath that I took had an excruciating stabbing pain that came along with it but I ignored it as best I
could.
I entered the room to see my father shocked that I survived the explosion. "The one person they were
supposed to kill and they fucking missed" he snarled angrily while trying to break his chains.
I stood in front of the chair as I held the knife in my hand.
My clothes were torn and blood was seeping from my body at an alarming rate.....but that wasn't going to
stop me from getting my revenge. I ran the knife along my fathers neck gently. It would be too quick for all
that he put me through.
"You are vile and evil to the bone, the world will be glad to be rid of such a nasty man" I uttered making
little cuts on his chest. "I bet those wounds hurt, only a matter time before you pass out from blood loss" my
father smirked evilly.
"Oh and I'm not the evil one, you are" he muttered. His words somehow shocked me. "You think the evil
one?" I grumbled as I made a little slash on his cheek. "I'm not evil, you are the evil one. You killed my
mother and abused me for years" I spat at him. "Bullshit, your mother was a sacrifice and you were a mistake
but either way you are pure evil. Your heart is made of stone and you don't feel emotions whether you
pretend to or not, some stupid girl isn't going to change the fact that I raised you to be the reincarnation of the
devil" he had a raised voice while he spoke. It reminded me of when I was a child.
"Well, what you created will be your own downfall, how does it feel to loose father?" I grinned. "You have
not won" my father grumbled. "You will loose, you will always loose" he shouted. "Enough talking" I spoke
with a demanding tone. I ran the knife along his throat. "You don't understand how long I've wanted to do this
for" I mumbled. "I'll say hi to your mother for you" he smiled sadistically. "She won't be where you're going"
I grumbled, punching him across the face as hard as I could in my weakened state.
I shook my hand as my father spat blood from the side of the chair. Nice to know that I've still got it.
"Do it already" my father ushered. "I didn't know you wanted to die so badly, I would've killed you months
ago if that was the case" I shrugged. "Fuck you father" I grumbled before I ran the knife along his throat.
Blood gushed from the wound across his neck while he tried desperately to breathe. "That's for Mom, you
piece of shit" I growled at him as I cleaned the knife with the cloth my guard had gotten me.
He was still alive but slowly dying.
I stabbed him through the chest, just to make sure he would definitely die. I walked out of the room, I would
love to watch his death but I have to make sure I don't die myself; Suddenly as I reached the living room, the
exhaustion hit me. My adrenaline was gone and I was left light headed. "Are you okay boss?" My guard
asked. "Call....Ice" I managed to blurt out before I collapsed on the ground.
Everything was fading into darkness but I only had one thought; thank god he's finally dead. Part of me knew
that his death was too quick, too simple for all the pain he had caused, but I can rest now.
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The room went black and I quickly lost consciousness.
——————————
Sofia's POV:
I stood in the mirror, staring at myself; staring at all the little imperfections on my face, trying to distract my
thoughts from one thing.
I pulled out my phone and scrolled through it for awhile until I worked up the courage to look at it. My heart
was pounding as if it could beat out of my chest and my palms were getting sweaty. Deep breaths Sofia, deep
breaths; I kept trying to tell myself to calm the panic that was bubbling up from inside my stomach.
I closed my eyes and put the phone back in my pocket. I really didn't want to open them but I had no choice. I
took a deep breath as I glanced down at the pregnancy test; It was positive and I was pregnant.
"Hey Sofia, I need to speak to you" Ice said with a quiet tone but banged down the door. My hand cupped my
mouth as tears filled my eyes. I didn't want to be pregnant; I'm too young to have kids. Even worse, what will
Ace think?.
"Sofia please, it's urgent" Ice urged, I could hear the desperation in his voice.
I quickly tried to calm myself down to talk with him before I opened the door.
"What is it?" I asked curiously, blinking back the tears. "I think you should sit down for this" he stared at me
with an intense look in his eyes. "Okay, lets go to the living room then" I mumbled while also being weirded
out by the fact that Ice was being so serious.
I sat on the couch and he sat across from me. He gulped before he spoke. "Ace is in critical condition in the
hospital; there's a very high possibility of death" he blurted out suddenly but carried guilt in his eyes. "What"
I uttered quietly as tears rolled down my cheeks. "Who- how?" I choked on my words. "Kai" Ice's eyes
watered as he tried desperately to hold them back. Dante appeared suddenly, sitting next to me.
"He had someone set off a bomb and Ace was outside with it as it exploded" Ice mumbled. "Stop" I muttered
as I began to sob. "He's going to die" I sobbed uncontrollably. "There's a 15% percent survival rate, it
would've been higher if he hadn't of been so determined to kill his father and went straight to the hospital
after the explosion" Dante informed. "I don't need to hear that shit" I yelled with tears streaming down my
face. "I don't want to hear that Ace is going to die okay? He'll survive; He has too" I collected myself before
remembering one major detail.
"I'm pregnant" I gasped. "I'm pregnant, what if he dies?" I felt light headed as I sat back down on the couch.
Dante and Ice just stared at each other in dismay and disbelief. "If it does come to that..... I'll help you raise
the child" Ice spoke up.
Ice hates children, he always has yet he would be willing to raise one with me.
"No, I want Ace" I whimpered. "Can we go see him?" I jumped up suddenly. "That's probably not a good
idea with the state that he's in" Ice admitted while shaking his head.
"Who owns the Mafia if Ace dies?" My worried expression only growing. "You do" Dante glanced at me.
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"He wrote your name down as heir". "Well I demand to see Ace then" I stated angrily. Dante looked at Ice
who was staring at the floor. "Fuck it, she ordered it" Ice shrugged, hopping up from the couch and walking
out the front door.
"Watch him Sofia, this is effecting him a lot more than what he is showing" Dante whispered to me as we
walked out to the car.
The car ride to the hospital was completely silent. Except for the last 5 minutes.
"You're pregnant?" Ice asked curiously. "Yeah" I shook my head. "How-" he asked confused. "I skipped the
pill and Ace knew that. The condom must've broke" I uttered uncomfortably in the back. Ice and Dante we're
sitting in the front.
I'm sorry about the wait but I hoped you enjoyed. Hopefully the next chapter won't be nearly as long
of a wait.

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*8 months later.
Sofia's POV:
Ace didn't die that day although there was a few scares during the recovery. It was hard and brutal on Ace
but he never showed it. Through out it, he was always making sure I was the one who was okay.
I decided to tell him about the pregnancy not long after he woke up and his response was as expected.

* flashback *
I sat by Ace's hospital bed. We had to use fake names so that we weren't recognisable to people in the
hospital; Not many people know what Ace looks like. They would only know his name and the mafia's name;
the reapers.
"Are you okay? You have been acting strange ever since I woke up" he voiced while lying back in the white
bed, the burns on his arms visible from the explosion.
I gulped as I worked up the courage to tell him. I decided it would be best to blurt it out since Ace hates
when people don't get straight to the point. The feeling in the pit of my stomach was growing; I felt like
getting sick.
"I'm pregnant" I blurted out. That was a lot easier than what I thought. Ace froze at my words, holding the cup
of coffee near his mouth. He put the coffee down and blinked a few times before responding. "We're not able
to have a kid at the moment Sofia, just look at the state I'm in" he spoke angrily. "It wasn't exactly my choice
Ace" I frowned angrily at him.
Ace rubbed his forehead stressfully, I hadn't saw him do that in awhile. "I don't want an abortion either" i
uttered to him. He shook his head, sitting up from the bed. He groaned as he moved, it was obvious he was
still in pain and the medicine was not working.
"Okay, okay, looks like we're having a baby even though we're too young" he shrugged but I could I tell he
was still upset.
*end of flashback*
My birthday was a couple of months ago so I'm 18 now. I'm still very young but I believe I can raise a child
and then when the child is old enough to go kindergarten, I'll finish school. There's no point in leaving it
unfinished. I might even get a job at cafe when I'm older and make some new friends. They're just idea's for
now.
Ace entered the room, looking exhausted. "Home from work?" I raised my eyebrow with a happy tone. "I'm
exhausted" he mumbled, jumping on the bed. "Yeah, I'd imagine" I grinned at him.
"How's our baby doing?" Ace grumbled, putting his head on my stomach to try and hear something. I let out a
giggle before Ace glanced up at me. "I love you" he mumbled, staring at me with a calm look in his eyes.
"I love you" I responded with a soft tone.
"I was thinking about names today and I feel like since we're having a boy, Jaxon would be better than Sage"
Ace expressed. "Jaxon" I mumbled. "I like it" I agreed. "So Jaxon it is?" he questioned. "Jaxon it is" I
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confirmed.
"Oh, by the way, dinner tomorrow, 8pm sharp, don't be late" he glared at me before pecking me on the lips. "I
have to go down and help Ice and Dante do some work stuff but then I'll be back up to watch a movie, choose
the movie wisely" he warned me as he walked out. I smiled at him before he left.
—————————
Ace's POV:
I had finished helping Ice and Dante fill out some paper work. I walked up the stairs and headed into our
bedroom. I opened the door to see Sofia lying in the bed, asleep. I smiled and shook my head. "I should've
known you would fall asleep" I whispered with a soft smile.
She looked so calm and peaceful. She had been in a lot of pain recently from the pregnancy but she's been
pushing through. I knew this would be tough on her, mentally and physically. I wasn't exactly in the best
shape to have a child either but I was more scared for her.
I'm just praying she has a smooth labour.
I quietly walked over to the bed and lay next to her. She snuggled into my chest, waking up slightly from her
sleep. "Ace, can you rub my stomach?" She winced in pain. "Of course baby" I hushed her back to sleep as I
ran my hand in circles over her stomach soothingly. It didn't take her long after that to fall back asleep.
I moved my hand up to her cheek and gently stroked her face with my thumb. She was flawless, the epitome
of perfection. She may have a million flaws but I can't see them, I have been oblivious to them since I laid
eyes on her.
I'll never forget that night at the ball; I knew she would change me. I fought so hard against her and what she
wanted me to be, but the harder I fought, the more I hurt her.
I don't know what happened or when I changed but all I know is that the man I am now, would have never
been if it wasn't for Sofia Diaz.
A light tap on the door snapped me out of my thoughts. The door creaked open, letting light shine through.
"Everything is prepared for tomorrow, just thought I'd let you know" Dante whispered from the door. I
nodded and he left.
I drifted into darkness.

An: You thought I'd kill him ? Wow, you really think I'm that cold hearted

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Sofia's POV:
Ace was taking me out for dinner today.
I told him that we didn't have to go anywhere fancy for me to be happy and that his company alone was
enough but of course Ace responded with "I have to treat my girl". I didn't expect anything less from Ace and
his stubbornness; he was determined to go to a fancy restaurant and treat me like "the queen I am".
He told me to check my wardrobe for a surprise. I opened it to see a gorgeous, skin tight, black dress with
jewellery to go along with it; it was super stretchy so it would fit over my bump. I slipped into the dress
quickly and threw on a pair of heels. I really didn't want to wear heels because they would hurt my feet but I
wasn't wearing inappropriate shoes to the dinner.
I stood up and walked out of the bedroom. The baby was kicking.
Ice walked out of his room suddenly, almost knocking me over. "Ice" I gasped almost falling over. "Shit, is
the baby ok?" His face becoming suddenly tense. He stared intensely at my stomach for a moment before
looking at me. "Yeah he's fine" I smiled slightly.
"Are you sure you should be wearing those?" He muttered with his eyebrows raised, pointing at my heels.
"I'll be fine" I reassured him before walking down the stairs.
I saw Ace waiting in the living room for me. His eyes were glued to my body as soon as I entered the room.
"My eyes are up here" I grinned before sitting next to him. "You're stunning" he muttered before he placed his
hand on my stomach. "Does the dress fit okay?" He asked curiously. "Of course" I smiled at him.
"My due date is around the corner" I whispered to Ace worriedly as Dante and Ice chatted amongst
themselves. I glanced down at the floor nervously. "Are you scared?" He used his finger to lift up my chin,
making me look him in the eye. "Obviously I'm scared, what if something goes wrong?" I voiced with a
worry look plastered all over my face. "I won't let it, you'll have the finest doctors delivering our baby" he
reassured me. "You couldn't stop it, even if you tried" I said calmly before kissing his cheek.
"Boss, our ride is here" Dante informed Ace, getting a nod from Ace in return.
"Let's go my queen" Ace uttered as I took his hand and helped me get up from the sofa.
——————————
We arrived at the restaurant with the head chef greeting us at the door. Ice and Dante came along also, Ace
didn't seem too bothered by it. There was a lot of people here tonight but our chef made sure that we got a
table on the roof. It was a nice day out. The sun had almost set fully, leaving the sky in a dark pink colour.
I looked at the sky in awe; it is moments like these that I take a deep breath in and realise that my life couldn't
be anymore perfect in this moment. I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.
There was a slow song playing and some of the couples got up to dance.
"Come, dance with me" Ace smiled happily, pulling me out of my seat. I didn't have much of a choice after
all. "I don't know how to slow dance" I giggled as he stood in front of me. "Take my hand" he muttered as he
guided me through the steps.
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We slowly danced along to the song. I laughed as he spun me around and then pulled me back into his arms;
the baby bump made it awkward but got it to work. I wrapped my arms around his neck as Ace wrapped his
around my waist. Our foreheads touched as we swayed with the song. I stared into his bright blue eyes that
were almost twinkling with happiness.
I leaned in and kissed him.
We broke our kiss moments later when the chef announced the main courses.
We sat back in our seats; Ace was sitting in front of me. Then Dante and Ice were sitting at a table across
from us and then there was a few tables surrounding us.
"When my father had arranged for me to marry someone, I would've never guessed the outcome would be
like this" Ace smiled as he ate his food. "Me either" I agreed.

An: I know it's short, no need to comment this time.

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Ace's POV:
We had finished eating and I glanced at Ice who gave me a thumbs up for encouragement. For some reason,
his face looked more punchable when he did that.
I was nervous but I was hoping Sofia couldn't tell; this evening had gone perfectly so far.
I had the ring in my suit pocket so that it wasn't noticeable to Sofia.
We joked with eachother as we talked, it was so easy for me to speak to her even when I'm nervous to the
point that I'm shaking.
"I've left a mark on you Hernandez, a mark you can't replace. Even if we don't work out, you'll always look
for me in every girl you meet" Sofia muttered proudly with a big grin plastered on her face. "Possibly" I
raised my eyebrow with a grin; She knows it too.
A few moments had passed.
"Here, stand up with me" I ushered her suddenly before we stood next to our seats. "Why are we standing?"
Sofia questioned nervously; She didn't like people staring at her.
"You're right, you've left a mark on me; You've changed me. You make me a better man and I know you'll
make me a better father. I want you to be in my life forever because you've created a hole in my heart, that
only you can fill" I said proudly. I wasn't ashamed of people hearing that I loved her.
"I love you Sofia, I want to grow old with you, I want you to be by my bed side when I'm dying. I want to be
able to look at you and tell you that we made it when we're old and wrinkly" I rambled with a slight smile.
"I, Ace Hernandez, am no longer the monster my father created me to be and that's because of you; You took
my trauma and turned it into hope, hope for a better life".
I think she finally understood at that moment what I was about to do.
"It's as simple as the fact that I love you and I want to propose properly" I mumbled as I got on one knee.
Her face became shocked as I began to kneel down.
"Will you-" I muttered, glancing down at the ring before a loud ringing sound flooded my ears; it was the
sound of a gunshot that had created it. In the background I could hear people screaming and heavy footsteps
as if they were running out of the restaurant.
I looked back up at Sofia who was as white as a ghost; All the colour had left her face.
My heart stopped when I watched Sofia put her hand up to her chest where the blood was seeping out of.
"Ace" she almost whispered, staring at me with widened eyes.
Ice had shot the person behind us, 3 times. "It wasn't meant for her, it was meant for him!" the guy screamed
before collapsing to the ground.
I felt like everything had stopped, just for a moment. It was all going in slow motion, the ringing in my ears
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still echoing from moments ago.
I stood up just in time to catch Sofia as her body became limp. She collapsed into my arms as I slowly
placed us on the floor with her eyes widened with shock.
"No" I said, with my face, just as white as hers.
"No, no" I muttered as I cradled her in my arms, trying desperately to stop the bleeding.
"You're okay, you'll be okay" I mumbled as my eyes began to well with tears. She just stared at me before
putting her hand over mine that was on her chest.
"It's okay" she uttered quietly. "It's okay" she was the one reassuring me. "No, no, no" I finally let the tears
fall. "I love you" she blurted out before blood began to dribble out of her mouth.
"It was supposed to be forever" I began to sob. This wasn't fair. "This...this was our forever" she smiled
weakly as a tear rolled down her face.
"I love you.....I'll be okay" she nodded as a tear ran down her cheek.
She was struggling to breathe as she began loosing a lot of blood.
"Please don't go" I sobbed uncontrollably as she lay in my arms dying. "I would if I could" she smiled
slightly. "Save our baby" she whispered softly, stroking away my tears with her free hand. "You need- you
need someone to- love you" she warned me.
"No, please, please!" I begged her, but I knew it was out of her control. "I- I'm not afraid to die, I'm only
afraid that I'll never see you again" She whimpered quietly, almost whispering. "I love you" she uttered as
the life left her eyes and her hand fell from my cheek. I sobbed as I held her in my arms, covered in her
blood, my forehead against hers. I held her head and neck up with my hand as my free one held the wound in
her chest.
"I can't do this without you" I sobbed frantically as Ice and Dante began to cry. I screamed in pain as I placed
my forehead on hers, rocking with her in my arms. "I'm sorry" I gasped, struggling for air due to my sobs.
Suddenly, the doctors ran in. "Boss, you need to give her to us so we can save the baby; we need to do an
immediate surgery" they ushered. I was too distraught to make any decisions.
"She gone" I shouted as I refused to let her go. "Let her go, it's what she wanted" Ice grabbed my shoulder,
reassuring me.
I let her go; I let Sofia go.
"It was supposed to be me" I repeated as I sobbed, stumbling to my feet. Tears streamed down Ice's face as
he pulled me into his arms. I couldn't believe she was gone. Every single bone in my body ached for her.
The doctors had to do an emergency C-section to save the baby.
I cried out in pain as Ice held me in his arms.
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Dante had collapsed onto the ground awhile ago.
But, moments later, I heard a baby cry.
"Its a miracle; he's alive" I heard the doctor say with a heavy heart as he handed me our baby. I held him in
my arms. "I won't let anyone hurt you, no one" I promised as he cried in my arms. "I'm here, we have
eachother" I hushed the baby while tears were still streaming down my own face.
I was covered in blood which I'm assuming wasn't good for the baby. "Hold him" I mumbled, handing him to
Ice. Suddenly my tears stopped as my whole body filled with rage.
A level of anger that I had never reached before.
I walked over to the body of the man as I searched for any gang symbol; that's when I found it. Haze's gang
symbol, tattooed on this man's arm.
Then I was screaming of only of pain and fury.
An: Guess I really am that cold hearted. Only two chapters left.

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I stood in the bathroom as I looked at myself in the mirror. I had blood all over me; on my face, on my
clothes, in my hair; who even knows how blood got there.
I glanced down at my hands that hadn't stopped shaking since I held Sofia's cold, lifeless body in my arms.
They were covered in blood.
I turned on the water and began to wash my hands. My eyes welled up with tears again as I watched the
blood slowly come off my skin.
It was supposed to be me; The thought kept reoccurring, making it hard to concentrate on anything.
I was so tired of crying. I wanted to break something or hit someone but I had no energy so all I could do is
cry. I gripped the sink in anger as I remembered her face.
"I'm afraid I'll never see you again"; her voice rang through my head, making me instantly punch the mirror to
distract myself from my thoughts. It shattered into a million pieces as I took deep breaths, trying to calm
myself down.
My hand began to bleed; Atleast it was my own blood this time.
I went into the kitchen to get the first aid before I did anything else. I couldn't care about the glass in my hand
but I knew I had to take care of it if I wanted to hold my son.
I wrapped it up after taking out the glass. I strolled into the sitting room where Ice was sitting while holding
Jaxon.
Without even being told, Ice handed him over to me. "You do realise we have to have a funeral for her?" Ice
blurted out. "I'm not going. You can hold it for her but I won't be going" I said with a monotone voice. "But
you have too" Ice demanded. "I'm not going, end of discussion" I growled at him, forgetting I was holding my
child.
"Look at what you did!" I shouted at Ice before hushing Jaxon back to sleep. Ice stormed out while making
sure to be quiet.
"I promise that I won't be like my father; I will be better for you" I whispered before kissing Jaxon's
forehead. "I will not let my pride or ego get in the way like it did with your mother. I will care for you as
best I can" I reassured Jaxon who was asleep in my arms.
——————————
"Ace you can't skip her funeral" Ice shouted frustratedly. "There's only two reasons I'm breathing right now;
that baby and to carry on the memory of Sofia. Her funeral will push me over the edge. If I go to that funeral
and see the love of my life's body in that casket, I will be pushed over the edge" I spat angrily through my
gritted teeth.
Ice glanced at me with watery eyes while nodding. "I didn't live up to my name before but I can assure you
now that I am as cold as Ice" he replied before walking out.
"Find Haze" I roared through the halls. "Fucking find him!".
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I pinched the bridge of my nose stressfully as I sat at my desk. I could hear Jaxon crying from the other room;
he was always crying.
I stood up and walked over to the door of the next room. I placed my hand on the doorknob hesitantly, I
should've known being a single father would be harder than I thought.
I twisted the door handle and walked in; the floor creaking under my feet while I entered the room and the
light peaking into the room from the door being open.
"Hey little man, what's wrong huh?" I asked him quietly as I held him in my arms. He just continued to cry. I
held him in my arms as I sat on the chair. "You miss Mama right?, yeah me too" I sighed as I rocked him
gently. He slowly began to calm down as he lay in my arms. "I think it's time for a bottle" I mumbled,
brushing my thumb against his tiny, soft cheek.
I grabbed the bottle I had prepared earlier in the evening for when he woke up. "Are you going to drink this
all for me?" I questioned before testing the heat of the milk on my arm. "Here you go" I hushed him as I fed
him the bottle.
My sigh filled the room.
The house was quiet; None of us could talk to each other without becoming angry.
He fell asleep not long after the bottle but just as I placed him in the crib, he began to cry again. "Ok, looks
like you're sleeping in my bed tonight" I muttered, bringing him into my room.
I placed Jaxon on the bed gently before I lay next to him. He wasn't much bigger than my hand. He lay on
Sofia's side of the bed, not even making a dent in the mattress due to his light weight.
I was feeling numb; I can't feel anything inside of me. It's like I'm hollow, made of only skin and bone; Its
exactly what I felt like before Sofia but now it's intensified. The anger I feel can't be slowly dissolved like it
used to, no matter how much I scream or punch now, I'll never stop being angry.
I wasn't even sure who I was more angry at. Myself for letting her die or her for leaving me. It's fucking
selfish that I'm angry at her but she knew how much I needed her.
I broke away from my thoughts when I heard a tiny snores. A slight smile was plastered on my lips without
even realising it.
Maybe he's my hope of being saved.

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4 years later.
Ice's POV:
I have been struggling to get out of bed lately; I think it's the fact that Sofia's 4 year anniversary is
approaching quite quickly and most of us still haven't finished grieving. Especially Ace.
Ace went on a rampage for about two years after she died, just killing anything or anyone that pissed him off
except for Jaxon obviously. He had went from barely getting out of bed to killing everyone including the
police force and innocent people who he thought was guilty.
But then, almost two years ago around this time, he just suddenly stopped. Personally I don't think he has the
energy anymore to kill people, not to mention Jaxon who can now have a full conversation. A short one, but a
conversation nonetheless. Little does Jaxon know today's his mother's 4 year death anniversary.
I still feel like Dante and I are walking on eggshells around Ace. We're always careful not to mention her
name, just incase he snaps.
I walked into the sitting room where I saw the photo flipped over, facing the coffee stand. I sighed as I
looked at it; it was a photo of him and her. He doesn't have the strength to throw the photo's around the house
away so instead, he just flips it over; I assume it's so that when he's doing things in the house, he's not
reminded of her.
I know the guilt is tearing him up inside because he's always saying it should've been him but I know Sofia
would rather herself die than Ace. She's always been too selfless.
Jaxon suddenly burst through the doors. "Alex, Alex, look what I found" he shouted happily as his little legs
ran as fast as they could over to me. He handed me a photo. "Where did you get this bud?" I asked curiously,
holding the photo of Sofia and I. "It was on the floor" he mumbled as he pointed at the wooden floor. "It
probably fell off of the wall" I muttered to myself.
"Alex, can I have a cookie" Jaxon cheered while jumping before falling to the ground. He began to cry as he
looked at his cut elbow. "It's okay, lets go get your dada" I grumbled as I lifted Jaxon into my arms. "But
dada's working and he says we're not allowed in" Jaxon pouted. "I think we can go in, just this once" I said,
placing my finger over my lips to imply it was a secret.
"Ok" Jaxon whimpered.
—————————
Ice was downstairs taking care of Jaxon so I had a few minutes at most to spend alone with my thoughts. I
travelled from my office to my bedroom; our bedroom.
I lay on the bed, letting out a deep sigh as I gazed at loose cover on the bed.
The tips of my fingers ran along the bed where she once lay next me. It felt like a lifetime ago that I had saw
her face or heard her voice; Her real voice. I'm constantly terrified that I'm going to forget her. As the years
go by I'm forgetting the way her touch sent electricity through my body like it had never been touched before;
Or maybe it's the fact that I know her smile is slowly fading away from my memory. There's also a consistent
dull ache in my chest because I long for her. Longing to kiss her lips and say I love you one last time.
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I slipped my phone out of my pocket and dialed a number. They didn't answer but their voicemail did.
"Hey, it's Sofia, leave a message after the beep and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Have a great
day". Hearing her voice was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. All my stress instantly melted
away as I heard her voice.
"Hey Sof.....it's Ace, it's been awhile since I've done this" I muttered into the phone. I glanced at the floor
while I tried to control my breathing. "It's four years today" I finally blurted out, my eyes stinging from the
tears that were beginning to well up. "I usually limit myself to hearing this once a week so that I don't over do
it because I know it's not healthy and I've already called this week but I said fuck it due to the fact you
been.....gone four years now" I bit my lip as I tried desperately to hold back the tears.
"I can't fucking do it Sof, I can't" I sobbed, finally letting myself breakdown. "Everything fucking hurts and I
haven't even touched my journal in months, I know if I open it and see how happy I was...... I'd try to join
where you are now" I uttered ashamed as tears rolled down my cheeks. "I'm sorry I broke my promise, I have
to carry that guilt around with me e-everyday" I released a sob at the end of my sentence. "The guilt is so
heavy that sometimes I feel like I can't breathe because of it" I whimpered.
"My heart aches for you everyday. Sometimes I wonder if you even saved my life by dying because now I'm
miserable all the time. Everyone kept telling me that I'd feel better and that time would heal the hole in my
heart that you left but if I'm being honest, I think it's only gotten deeper" I explained with a heavy heart, letting
out my bottled grief.
I calmed myself down as best I could.
"But on the bright side Jaxon turns 4 tomorrow" I mumbled "He....saw a photo of you the other day and he
recognised you. I've never been prouder yet so creeped out" I said with my tone becoming more happier than
previously. I swallowed the lump in my throat and stared at the ground.
"But yeah, I just called to let you know how we were doing. I love you Sof...... I'm still in love with you and I
can't wait for the day I'm with you again" my lip quivered as I spoke.
I hung up.
I reached out for her pillow, that hadn't been used since the night she died.
I adjusted it, realising it was crooked and suddenly a corner of her diary peeked out at me from underneath it.
Our maids change our sheets so they would've found it and just put it back where it was after they were
finished, assuming I knew that it was there.
I searched everywhere for her journal after she died and the one place I didn't look. I felt like punching
myself.
My fingers traced the cover of it. This was one of the last things she touched. It's weird how special the little
things become.
I don't have the energy to read this tonight.
And just as I thought that, Ice and Jaxon came into the room. Jaxon had tears rolling down his cheeks as his
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bottom lip was in a pout. He was staring at his cut elbow.
"Oh...we can leave you alone" Ice uttered, noticing what I was holding. "No, I want dada!" Jaxon shouted,
squirming in Ice's arms.
"It's okay, give him to me" I sighed, taking Jaxon into my arms. Ice walked out, respectively and shut the door
behind him. "What happened?" I hushed Jaxon who was crying. "I fall" he blubbered with snot coming out of
his nose. I took the tissue from my night stand and wiped his nose. "Does it hurt?" I asked curiously. "No"
Jaxon stated bluntly. I smiled, letting out a small chuckle.
"So why are crying bud?" I questioned. "I don't like it" he muttered, pointing to his blood. "Ohhh" I nodded
with a light tone, taking the first aid kit out of my night stand. "I have these all over the house" I smiled.
"Why?" Jaxon asked. "I used to get a lot of owies too so I put one of these in every room" I whispered,
cutting the plaster and placing it on his elbow.
I sat Jaxon on my lap as he played with the strings of my hoodie. "All better" Jaxon smiled with tears still
rolling down his cheeks. I grinned, wiping the tears with my thumb. I kissed his forehead. "Tomorrow you
turn 4!" I shouted excitedly. He let out a giggle as I stood up, lifting him in the air. "4!" He repeated, holding
up his fingers. I decided to make his birthday one day after his mother's death date so that he could have the
day all to himself.
"You're going to be a big boy!" I said happily, throwing him back onto the bed. He laugh uncontrollably as he
tried to sit back up normally on the bed. He let out a yawn before rubbing his eye. "Is someone tired ?" I
asked curiously, with one eyebrow raised. "No, I want to play!" He said, starting to throw a tantrum. "Hey,
you're a big boy tomorrow, no more tantrums" I warned him, putting on my strict voice. "I just want to play
with you" he cried. "We can play all day tomorrow" I assured him, seeing his eyes immediately light up.
"You promise?" He asked happily. "I promise" I muttered. "Okay" Jaxon pouted again, but wasn't crying any
longer. "Let's go kiddo" I grabbed his hand.
I took him to his bedroom and he climbed into his bed. "Read this one!" He shouted with a big smile
plastered on his face. His light, slightly curly brown hair was all messy and his big brown eyes sparkled
with happiness. There was so much of her in him; it was almost painful.
I began to read the book and as I reached half way through, I heard little snores coming from his bed. I
glanced over to see him knocked out. I placed my hand on his chest, just to feel his heart beat. It gave me
peace of mind knowing his was still beating.
"I love you Jaxon" I whispered as I stood at his door.
I quietly walked into my room.
Death is the price you pay for love.
An: I was thinking of doing one last chapter that's an alternative ending. If you guys are interested let
me know. I cannot thank you all enough for your unconditional support on the book. It means the
absolute world that you all stuck around this long. I love you all even tho you might hate me right now
hehe.
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P 99-4
*this is an alternative ending, the main ending will be Sofia's death*.
*CONTINUATION FROM THE DINNER*
*Sofia's POV*
My face became shocked as he knelt down on one knee.
"Will you marry me?" He said in awe as he looked up at me. I was frozen; He wanted to spend the rest of his
life with me. "Sofia?" He asked, grabbing my attention away from my thoughts. "Yes" I smiled, ear to ear
before he stood up and I hugged him. "I love you" he whispered into my ear as he hugged me tightly. "I love
you more" I muttered quietly so only he could hear. I released my grip on him when I felt water trickle down
the side of my leg.
I glanced down in confusion. My eyes connected with Ace's; he widened his eyes, realising what was
happening.
"You're water broke" Ice shouted from behind me. "Call an ambulance" I said to Ace calmly as I sat down.
Ice was freaking out in the corner with Dante who had an almost sad expression on his face.
Within 5 minutes the ambulance had come and Ace was panicking the entire time. He kept telling me that it
would be alright but I think it was for his own reassurance. I walked slowly out to the ambulance and that's
when the contractions began; It was a bit early into the pregnancy to have this baby but I guess I was going to
have to make it work.
————————
The labour process was long, hard and painful. Sweat was dripping from my forehead as I struggled to push
the baby out. But eventually, Jaxon Alex Hernandez was born.
The doctor handed Jaxon to me as Ace looked like he was going to pass out.
"Hi baby" I hushed his cries as I held him in my arms. "You're very handsome" I spoke softly, kissing his
forehead.
This was moment I had waited for my entire life. This was my purpose; To be a mother.
I saw Ace's light up as he stared at his child. "Do you want to hold him?" I asked Ace curiously with a smile
plastered on my face. "No, he looks peaceful in your arms and I wouldn't want to drop- "take him" I forced
Ace to hold Jaxon. I knew Ace was just scared that he would hurt him but I had full confidence in him. He'll
be a great father.
Ace held the baby in his arms gently, treating Jaxon as if he was made of glass. The baby began to cry and
Ace began to freak out. "Did I hurt him?" Ace questioned frantically with his eyes widened. "No" I giggled.
"Try and rock him in your arms" I suggested and Ace did as I said. In no time, Jaxon was asleep in his fathers
arms.
Then, Ice burst into the room. "The doctor told me you gave birth, are you okay?!" Ice shouted worriedly
causing Ace to throw Ice a nasty stare. "My son is trying to sleep" Ace shouted but somehow also whispering
at the same time. "Overprotective much" Ice rolled his eyes and walked over to my bedside. "I don't know
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how you did that, you're like super human or something" Ice grinned making me smile. "Shut up" Ace snarled
at Ice who was still talking quite loudly. "Ok I better leave before he kills me" Ice uttered quickly before
leaving the room
"He's such a dumbass" Ice rolled his eyes.
I let out a chuckle before realising I was exhausted; All the adrenaline had kept me awake.
——————————
I scrubbed the plate clean as the music blared through the house. I danced as I put the plate on the stack of
clean ones. I looked over to my right to see Jaxon dancing in the middle of the kitchen. I laughed as I watched
him move his arms and legs frantically. He paused and giggled with me before continuing.
I turned around to see Ace, leaning against the wall with a smirk on his face. I stopped the music at the sight
of him. "Oh, when did you get home?" I blushed shyly as I questioned him. "2 minutes ago" his smirk turned
into a grin at the sight of my light pink cheeks.
He had taken off his suit jacket and tie; I'm assuming at the door and had unbuttoned his shirt half way down,
revealing his chest and the shirt just giving a slight glimpse of his abs. His hair was styled today which he
didn't do very often. He began to take off his belt as he approached me.
"Dada!" Jaxon shouted, only now realising his father had come home. Jaxon was obviously distracted by his
dancing. "Hey Buddy!" Ace smiled, lifting Jaxon into his arms. "You're getting big!" Ace exclaimed as he
poked Jaxon's chest. "I know, look at my muscles" Jaxon showed his bicep to Ace. Ace let out a chuckle
before asking "why aren't you in bed yet? It's late". Ace raised his eyebrow at me warningly.
"Mama let me stay up late" Jaxon whispered to Ace. "Yes I did because he didn't get to see his father very
much this week" I shot a death stare at Ace. "Sorry little man, I was working" Ace muttered as he rubbed
Jaxons head, messing up his hair.
"Can you tuck me in?" Jaxon asked with a pout. "Of course I can" Ace grinned, placing him down and letting
Jaxon run up to his room.
Ace looked at me, making my heart race; Our love is still strong to this day. He still makes the hair on the
back of my neck stand up and still gives me butterflies in my stomach.
He walked over to me and grabbed my chin, forcing me to kiss him. He broke the kiss and grumbled "it has
been a long fucking day". "My day was good, I enrolled Jaxon for kindergarten" I informed Ace but he wasn't
listening to anything I said. He was just staring at my lips.
"Mhm, can I kiss you now" he asked. "Yeah" I giggled before my lips pressed against his. I was grateful for
these moments. "A week from now and we'll be husband and wife" he grinned as he walked away. I had
completely forgot our wedding was so soon.
———————————
I stood in my wedding dress, looking in the mirror. "Sofia" Ice knocked. "You can come in" I replied.

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I saw him walk in and his jaw instantly opened.
"You're stunning" Ice said in shock. "Thank you" I smiled happily. "Are you ready?" He asked. "I've always
been ready" I admitted as Ice walked out. He brought Jaxon in.
"Wow Mama, you look like a Princess" he gasped with a big smile on his face. "Thank you Jax" I muttered as
I leaned down and kissed his cheek. "You're welcome" he gave me a thumbs up.
"Ok let's go" Ice ushered us out of the room. I stood at the doors with Jax holding my hand; He was going to
walk me down the isle because he is one of the two men I will love unconditionally. The other is standing at
the altar.
The doors opened and I began to walk. "Don't trip" Jax whispered to me. "I wont" I chuckled.
I watched Ace's face instantly drop as he saw me. His eyes widened and he placed his hand on his heart. I
smiled at him as Jax made sure to watch every step he took so he didn't trip.
We reached the top and Jaxon ran over to Alex.
"You look absolutely flawless" he uttered, almost out of breath. "You're not bad yourself" I grinned.
The priest finished speaking after half an hour.
We said our vows.
"I do" Ace spoke proudly and confidently with no hesitation.
"I do" I smiled softly, my eyes watering.
I felt complete. In this very moment I felt complete. I also felt overwhelmed and accomplished. I swear I
thought that my father was going to make my whole life a living hell. But he didn't. I wouldn't of met Ace
without my father. I'm thankful that my father forced me to live and almost marry Ace because without him, I
wouldn't be alive today.
I got to know who Ace really was and I can never love a person as much I love him; except my son of course.
I did it. I'm happy and I'm in love. Nothing could ever beat this moment; Nothing.
I guess a tragic start doesn't always mean a tragic ending.
An: From the bottom of my heart, I would like say a massive thank you to everyone who has read and
supported all 100 chapters of this book. I would've never imagined I'd of made it this far and I wouldn't
of without you guys. You inspire me to write everyday with your positive words. Thank you all so much
and I'm incredibly appreciative of every single one of you. And Of course I couldn't end the book
without the wedding scene ;).
I love you all and it is with a heavy heart I say:
This is the end of Ace.
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———————
Thank you all for 20 million. You have made my dreams come true.
———————
Holy shit. 30 million. Absolutely speechless yet beyond grateful for every single one of you.

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