CHAPTER 9
C HAPTER 9
ALLYN
Sleep never found me that night.
I tossed and turned in bed, my mind unable to stop replaying the conversation with Maddox. Or how… threatening his gaze had been as if he were trying to warn me.
By morning, I made my way down the stairs with messy hair, dark circles under my eyes, and my face swollen from lack of sleep. I shuffled into the kitchen, trying to ignore the way the staff stared at me as I passed by. I’m sure I looked like a wreck.
Lara had knocked on my door at nine, saying breakfast would be brought to my room soon, but I told her I’d rather eat in the kitchen.
When I walked in, I expected it to be empty, but as I looked up, I froze. Maddox was sitting at his usual spot from last night but what caught my attention was the girl sitting next to him.
They were talking when I interrupted them— both stopped and turned their heads toward me.
And there I was, standing in the doorway, looking like a mess—hair a disaster, swollen face, bags under my eyes.
I flashed an awkward smile, not knowing what else to do.
Maddox’s gaze swept over me as he leaned forward, taking me in with an unreadable expression, his eyes scanning me up and down.
Only now did I notice that Maddox’s dark hair, usually fixed and slicked back, was messy and natural. It looked so damn soft.
And the girl… she was stunning.
Her face was small and perfectly shaped, with a small piercing adorning her nose. Her lips were full and plump, matching her large, almond-shaped brown eyes. Her hair was long and white, cascading down to her waist, and it complemented her pale, soft skin. I’d never seen anyone pull off that hair color before, but somehow, she made it look effortless.
The moment she noticed me, her previously expressionless face lit up, and a big smile spread across her lips, revealing her perfect white teeth. Her eyes sparkled with excitement.
“Oh my god,” she exclaimed, jumping up from her seat.
Now that I had a better view of her, I could see she was taller than me, her body muscular yet slender. She wore a black ripped tank top, a black skirt, and black high boots.
‘‘Allyn!’’
Did she just say my name?
Like an idiot, I could only smile awkwardly.
She closed the distance between us in an instant, pulling me into a hug as if we were long-lost friends. Her embrace was tight, almost suffocating, but I hugged her back, still trying to process what the hell was happening. After a few moments, she pulled away, her smile still bright and wide.
She was even more stunning up close.
“Maddox didn’t lie when he said you were beautiful.”
What?
“Shut the fuck up, Lydia,” he muttered, clearly irritated.
The girl—Lydia—just laughed, her laughter light and carefree, as though Maddox’s words didn’t faze her at all.
I had to take some time to process this.
Did Maddox actually say I was beautiful, or was I just imagining things? Somehow, I found it hard to believe.
Maddox is… well, Maddox. He made it pretty clear he couldn’t stand me. So, hearing Lydia’s words threw me off.
I could feel my face warming.
“Chill, grumpy head,” Lydia waved her hand dismissively without even looking at Maddox, then grinned at me.
“I’m glad to finally meet you. I’m Lydia. Maddox and Angelo’s sister.”
Oh, that makes sense. Now that I looked more closely at her and Maddox, I could see the similarities.
Tall, stunning, intimidating presence.
Definitely a King.
“Oh, I’ve been dying to meet you!” Lydia took my hands in hers, her smile wide and genuine. “I’ve heard so many stories about you.”
“Okay, enough,” he said, his voice cutting through the air as he got up from his seat and grabbed the keys from the bar. “Let’s go, Lydia. We’ve got work to do.”
He walked over to us, but his eyes stayed fixed on Lydia as if deliberately avoiding mine.
Lydia sighed, giving him a look of annoyance.
“Why do you always have to ruin everything?” t hen she turned back to me, her smile returning. “I’ll see you tonight at the party, right?”
“Party?” I echoed, confused. “What party?”
“Didn’t Angelo tell you?” Lydia raised an eyebrow. I shook my head. “Tonight is my welcome-back party.”
“No, he never mentioned it,” I replied, now even more confused as to why Angelo didn’t mention it, especially when we were on our date last night. Why leave that out?
“Why am I not surprised?” Lydia laughed. “Well, I expect to see you tonight.”
“Of course,” I nodded, still processing everything.
Maddox groaned from beside us, clearly impatient.
“We have to go, Lydia.”
Lydia shot him a playful grin. “We’ll be leaving before you witness me killing my brother.”
She joked—at least, I hoped she did.
“I’ll see you tonight,” she added, flashing me a smile as she walked off.
“See you tonight,” I echoed, then, just like that, they were gone, leaving me standing there like an idiot.
Why did Angelo forget to mention something as simple as a party— or that his sister is back?
I thought we had a good time on our date last night.
The least he could’ve done was mention to his future wife that his sister was coming home and they were throwing a big party for her.
While I was eating my breakfast, I texted Tamara.
I missed her and I missed the shelter. She was angry that I left without saying goodbye, but I couldn’t tell her the real reason why I had to leave.
I promised I’d visit her next week, though I wasn’t sure if that would happen. Just as I finished my breakfast, Lara burst into the kitchen holding a towel in her hand, looking at me expectantly.
“Miss Delgado,” she said, “Mr. King instructed me to prepare you for the party tonight.”
Ah, just on time.
“Which Mr. King?”
Lara pursed her lips, a faint hesitation in her expression.
“Sir Angelo King, miss.”
I nodded, a sudden wave of disappointment washing over me. I stood up from my seat, walking toward her, taking a deep breath.
“Lead the way, Lara.”
*****
I spent the whole day getting ready for the celebration, and when the night rolled down — it was time.
As expected, the Kings outdid themselves once again.
I’d only read about their parties in articles and magazines before, and now I was finally attending one.
The ballroom of their residence had been transformed into the center of the celebration.
If I had to guess, I’d say there were at least a hundred people, probably more, all dressed in designer clothes. It was as if they were trying to outshine one another, proving who had the most money. The fake smiles, the forced laughter—everything about it was a facade. A spectacle.
I didn’t belong here, nor did I particularly want to.
I scanned the crowd, searching for a familiar face. And there, in the distance, I saw Lydia, walking toward me with a confidence that was impossible to ignore.
“Allyn!” Lydia’s voice rang across the room as she reached me, flashing that big, welcoming smile. I barely had time to respond before she wrapped me in a tight hug.
“I’ve been looking for you everywhere!”
Lydia stood out from everyone around us. There was a natural beauty about her that couldn’t be masked by makeup or fancy attire. She wore very little makeup and still managed to look effortlessly stunning. Her face was radiant, her presence magnetic.
Lydia’s silver hair was pulled up into a high ponytail, and large round silver earrings dangled from her ears, perfectly completing her look. Her dress was a shimmering silver, hugging her body in all the right places.
It was a short, vintage-style dress that showcased her long legs, making the guys at this party practically snap their necks just to get a glimpse of her.
“You look amazing,” she exclaimed, taking me in with a glowing smile. “My brother got himself a hot future wife.”
I looked down at myself, feeling awkward next to her.
She looked like a model, and I felt like a child standing beside her, wearing a short violet dress that Lara had helped me pick out—definitely not anything close to Lydia’s level of elegance.
I had curled my hair, letting it fall loosely down to my waist, did a light makeup look, finishing with red lipstick, and that was it.
Nothing like Lydia’s flawless, put-together appearance. I tugged nervously at the hem of my dress, hoping I didn’t look too ridiculous. Why were these guys staring at me like that?
I couldn’t decide if their gazes were mocking me or if they were just captivated by the massive ice sculpture behind me. The sculpture, an impressive work of art, had Lydia’s face carved into it, glowing under the spotlight.
“You look beautiful too, Lydia,” I said sincerely, trying to ignore the self-doubt creeping up inside. “Do you know where Angelo is?”
I scanned the crowd, but it was difficult to pick him out among so many people. Lydia glanced around too, furrowing her brows.
“He was here a few minutes ago”
I nodded absently, then, without thinking, I asked, “And is Maddox here?”
I hoped Lydia wouldn’t find it odd that I was asking about her other brother. I don’t even know why I asked. It’s not like I cared if he is here or not.
Lydia paused for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered my question.
“Let’s just say that this picture is not his favorite to be part of.”
I nodded, deciding not to push any further despite the many questions swirling in my mind.
‘‘Allyn.’’
The husky voice, familiar and commanding, said my name from behind me. A hand slid around my waist, warm and firm.
Turning my head, my eyes met Angelo’s.
His gaze swept over me, his lips curving into a slight smile.
“I’ve been looking for you everywhere. You look stunning, as always.”
“Thank you.”
I wasn’t sure if I’d ever get used to receiving compliments from him. I wasn’t sure I’d ever get used to the idea of him being my husband, either.
I took a good look at him. He was effortlessly handsome, dressed in his black Armani suit with his hair slicked back, highlighting his chiseled features.
“Come with me,” he said, his voice soft yet commanding. “I want to introduce you to our guests.”
Before I could protest, he took my hand, pulling me along with him. His fingers interlaced with mine, and the touch—so simple, so intimate—felt out of place, sending an odd shiver through me. I didn’t know why his touch was affecting me like this, but it did.
As we moved through the crowd, Lydia waved at us from across the room, her bright eyes shining as she took a sip of her cocktail. I glanced back at Angelo, his lips still curled into that small, confident smile as he led me through the sea of people.
Their eyes were on us—on me—whispers and murmurs following in our wake. I could feel their stares, the curiosity almost palpable, but I chose to block it all out.
Finally, we stopped in front of a group of people. Angelo’s hand found my waist, pulling me a bit closer as he made introductions.
“Allyn,” he began, his voice smooth, “I’d like you to meet some dear friends of the family and long-time partners.”
I forced a smile as he listed the names of two men and two women. I nodded at them, offering polite greetings even though I knew I’d forget their names in seconds.
“Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce you to Allyn Delgado. My fiancée.” Angelo’s voice rang out through the crowd, and his hand tightened around my waist, guiding me forward.
The words, fiancée, felt heavy, foreign—almost forbidden. All I could do was offer a polite smile, not trusting my voice to match the facade I was supposed to keep.
“We’re so glad to finally meet you.” The blonde woman in front of us flashed a smile, her eyes quickly scanning me.
“Angelo, she’s much more beautiful than what you described.”
I shifted uncomfortably under her gaze, but Angelo’s eyes met mine, and there was something in his expression that caught me off guard.
Before I could process it, his lips brushed against my cheek in an innocent kiss that somehow left a chill running down my spine.
“I’m one very lucky man,” Angelo murmured, his voice low but loud enough for everyone to hear.
“Lucky indeed,” the man to his right chimed in, his tone laced with something I couldn’t quite read.
I barely had time to react when the blonde woman spoke again, her attention shifting toward Angelo, but her eyes briefly darting back to me.
“Angelo, please tell me you’re taking your beautiful fiancée with you on the trip to Italy?”
What?
“At least I’ll have someone to talk to while you men do business.”
She laughed then, but there was something cold and rehearsed about it. I couldn’t place it, but it didn’t sit right with me.
“We’ll see.” Angelo’s voice was nonchalant, but his gaze softened as he looked down at me. “What do you think, darling?”
Darling.
The word felt wrong coming from him.
I tried not to let my discomfort show, but the way the room seemed to watch me—wait for me to respond— made it harder to maintain a polite smile.
What am I supposed to say?
Of course, I knew this was all part of a show for his guests. A performance. But that didn’t make it any easier.
Do I want to go? Absolutely not.
Do I have a choice? Absolutely not.
‘‘Sounds… amazing,” I said slowly, each word feeling like it took an eternity to form, praying my face wasn’t betraying the reluctance I felt.
“Wonderful,” the woman added, her smile tightening, fake as ever. “Have you been to Italy before?”
“No, it would be my first time.” I forced myself to meet her gaze, playing along despite my discomfort. “I’d love to go.”
“Oh, you’ll love it!” she exclaimed, clearly pleased with my response. She took a sip of her champagne, eyes glinting. “I’ll show you all the amazing shops in Milan. You’ll have such a great time.”
I nodded—a practiced smile still plastered on my face.
Thankfully, their conversation shifted to another topic, leaving me standing next to Angelo, barely paying attention.
My mind was swirling, and I stopped trying to follow the discussion when I caught something about investments.
I gently took Angelo’s hand, drawing his attention.
“I’ll go find Lydia. I never officially congratulated her on her comeback.”
Angelo nodded, his eyes lingering on me for a moment before he answered, “I’ll find you later.”
He kissed my cheek again—an action that felt more like an obligation than affection. I said a quick goodbye to Angelo’s partners, eager to escape the tense atmosphere.
With each step, I felt the weight lifting off me, like I could finally breathe again. What a strange conversation, I thought.
And that woman… the way she looked at me and Angelo… almost like she was jealous? Or was I just imagining things?
I shook my head, trying to push the strange thoughts aside, but they lingered like an itch I couldn’t scratch.
I needed fresh air.
I made my way to the second floor. I didn’t have a clear destination in mind, but I was desperate to escape the chaos below. It was quieter. Most of the guests were clustered around the ballroom and the first floor.
I climbed the stairs, moving quickly through the long, silent corridor. When I reached the door that led out to the balcony, I could already feel the cool night air teasing my skin, a welcome relief from the stifling atmosphere inside.
As my hand wrapped around the door handle, I nearly collided with a woman coming out in the opposite direction.
She stopped for a brief moment, her eyes scanning me before she walked past without a word. Her face was pale, her eyes red, and there was something about her—she looked like she’d been crying.
Okay… that’s not strange at all.
I shook my head again, telling myself not to overthink it. I opened the door, and as soon as the night air hit my skin, I stepped outside, feeling the weight of the evening finally start to lift.
But then, my eyes spotted someone.
There, standing in the shadows of the balcony, was none other than Maddox King dressed in a black suit.
Shocking, right?
Maddox stood with his back slightly turned, adjusting his tie and muttering curses under his breath, clearly frustrated. I stopped in my tracks, surprised to see him here. Lydia told me he wouldn’t attend.
So what is he doing here?
I couldn’t help but notice how good he looked, which was frustrating in itself.
Nope, Allyn. He’s a jerk. Don’t even think about it.
But I did.
When Maddox finally sensed my presence and shifted his gaze toward me, I found myself unable to look away. The cold, unreadable expression on his face was always there, like a mask he wore to hide anything real.
“Did I interrupt something?” I asked, pointing behind me toward the door where the woman—who I was sure he knew—had almost walked into me.
“No,” he replied, still struggling with his tie, swearing quietly under his breath again.
I hesitated, unsure of what came over me. The words came out before I could even think, barely audible, as I whispered, “Do you… need help?”
At the sound of my voice, Maddox stopped.
His black eyes locked with mine, and for a moment, everything around us seemed to blur. He didn’t answer immediately. His gaze narrowed as if he wasn’t sure whether he could trust me.
One breath. Two breaths. Still nothing.
We just stood there, locked in this strange silence. The sounds of the party downstairs felt distant like they belonged in another world altogether.
He clenched his jaw so hard I feared it might break, but eventually, his hands dropped to his sides, a brief nod acknowledging my presence.
I swallowed hard, and with shaky legs, I closed the distance between us. The sound of my heels echoed in the silence, amplifying the tension in the air.
I stopped just in front of him, and his scent invaded my space, intoxicating me more than any alcohol could. With trembling hands, I reached for his tie, fingers fumbling slightly as I tried to work it loose.
I kept my eyes away from his, attempting to ignore the weight of his intense stare—trying to ignore the way he smelled so good, the closeness of him, how tall and muscular he was, how freaking handsome he looked tonight.
God, am I drunk? I must be.
“S-so…” I started, my voice shaky. I couldn’t stop myself from feeling the heat of his gaze burning into my face.
“You decided to come to the party after all?”
“Not by choice.”
“It’s your sister’s party”
He scoffed, rolling his eyes.
“It’s something she does regularly.’’
My hands, once so skilled at working with ties, suddenly seemed to forget how to move. It wasn’t working.
Why the hell can’t I do this right? I usually did this with my eyes closed.
“I thought you were supposed to be my bodyguard for tonight,” I muttered, the words slipping out in a near-whisper.
I could’ve sworn I felt his body stiffen at the sound of my voice.
“You have Angelo. You don’t need me.”
I made the mistake of looking up, and the moment our eyes locked, I was lost. People usually get lost in the color of someone’s eyes, in the emotions they express, or in the warmth they carry.
Me? I was lost in the depths of his darkness. I was drawn into the blackness of his gaze, as two daggers pointed directly at me, pulling me deeper, making me feel like I was falling… falling…
His stare never wavered, and I could feel him studying my face up close, motionless like he was in a trance. My hands tightened around his tie, fighting the urge to pull him closer, even though every part of me wanted to. I glanced down at his lips for just a moment, and in that fleeting second, my mind wandered into forbidden territory—thoughts I couldn’t even admit to myself.
I didn’t know what I was doing. Hell, he didn’t seem to know either. But we weren’t pulling away.
His lips were so close, that I could almost taste them. The air between us felt thick, charged, as if the world around us had disappeared, leaving only this strange, electric tension.
‘‘Don’t,” he whispered, his voice laced with a warning so dark, it seemed to vibrate in the space between us.
But it wasn’t working. The little bit of alcohol in my system must have been enough to cloud my judgment.
Why couldn’t I find the strength to pull away?
Why couldn’t I stop reaching for him when every rational part of me screamed that I shouldn’t?
I didn’t even like him.
I was promised to his brother. We will be family soon.
Then why did it feel so right to be so close to him? Why did I feel this electricity in my body, an undeniable spark, when all I’d ever felt from Angelo’s touch was cold, distant… unwanted?
Before I could gather my thoughts, the door swung open, making us both snap apart like we’d been burned.
Lydia appeared a glass in hand, her wide smile lighting up the night as if nothing unusual had just transpired between Maddox and me.
“I was looking for you everywhere,” she said, her voice upbeat, her eyes twinkling with that familiar mischievous glint. She took a sip of her drink, glancing between the two of us. Her eyes landed on me for a moment before flitting to Maddox.
“Ah, our guest of honor finally decided to join us.”
I swallowed, trying to steady my racing heart, but Lydia didn’t seem to notice.
“What were you two gossiping about?” she asked, wiggling her brows, clearly eager for a bit of drama.
‘‘Nothing,” Maddox muttered, his usual stoic mask returning in an instant. “Take Allyn back to Angelo, where she belongs.”
With that, he turned on his heel, leaving without another word.
Lydia watched him go, her expression one of confusion, as if she’d just missed something important.
“What happened with him?” Lydia asked, her tone curious, but laced with concern.
I shrugged, unsure myself.
Truth be told, I wanted to know the answer to that question just as badly as she did. What had just happened between us?
What would have happened if Lydia hadn’t barged in?
God, I need to be locked in a psych ward. I’m losing my mind.
Lydia sighed, leaning against the railing, her gaze distant.
“I’ll never understand why he’s so grumpy and angry all the time.”
You and me both, Lydia.
You and me both.