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I sat up quickly and confused, watching as he gestured toward me to stand before disappearing into the closet. I sighed getting ready to obey but aknock at his bedroom further startled me.
Before I could exit the bed, I yanked the covers over my bare breasts as the door swung open. William and another man swiftly waltzed in. I pointed toward the closet as I assumed, they were looking for Valentino. William shook his head before he took large, angry strides to where Valentino was. The other man crossed his arms, staring at me as I mildly recoiled on the bed. I suddenly felt uncomfortable and overwhelmed.
Valentino stomped out of the closet holding two bags, while being followed closely by William. He dropped the bags in the middle of the bedroom floor before stopping and pivoting to me. Placing his hands on his hips, he studied my lack of emotion. I was still utterly confused as to what was happening.
“Isabelle,” he snapped harshly, “go pack!”
“I’m naked under here!”
He rolled his eyes before disappearing into his closet again. He stepped out, tossing me a shirt. I caught it then twirled my finger in a circle, indicating for William and the other man to turn away. The moment they turned their backs, I pulled the long t-shirt over my head as quickly as possible before I stood, sprinting out of the bedroom and down the hall. I could hear William speak as I was on my way out the door.
“I wish you would reconsider,” he pleaded.
“Just get my fucking jet ready and shut the fuck up!”
14 London Bound
We gathered in Valentino's driveway next to two limos, surrounded by six security guards and drivers. I peered around with wide eyes, wondering what was going on as the hushed murmurs spread through the air. Something intense was happening for Valentino to have snapped at me like he did earlier.
Joseph stood close to my side, bobbing his head as he listened to the chatter in his earpiece. Valentino stood alone, staring at the mansion while smoking a cigarette. William and two other men exited the house, approaching him. As they shared a private conversation, William glanced toward me before turning his attention back them.
Great. I knew they were discussing me which made me a bit nervous. I trusted Valentino, but it pained me to admit that I was very nosy when it came to people talking about me. They broke their conversation and William turned to me again, nodding his head at me to follow. Sluggishly and hesitantly, I trudged behind him wondering what was going on, but scared to ask. As I passed Valentino, he tapped my bottom with his fingertips.
“Walk a bit faster.”
I spun my body around, narrowing my eyes at him. He grinned evilly while winking. I turned back around, skipping a little to catch up to William who came to a stop next to a gazebo.
Crossing his arms, he studied me. “There are bugs outside,” he muttered in a low tone, barely above a whisper, “so we have to keep it down, okay?”
“What the hell kind of bugs are triggered by noise?” I hissed back, darting my eyes around in paranoia.
“Not insects,” he groaned, rolling his eyes.
I giggled realizing how dumb I must have sounded when I understood he meant surveillance bugs and not actual six-legged creepy little creatures.
“You will be riding with me to the airport,” he instructed in an all-business tone. “Valentino and security will be in front of us.”
Confusion consumed my face as I tilted my head, waiting for a detailed explanation that William was not going to offer that to me at the time. I sighed, folding my arms defensively over my stomach. I caught a glimpse of Valentino in my peripheral vision then lifted my chin to meet his gaze. He nodded his head toward the car William would be driving, flashing a reassuring smile. Lowering my eyes, I trudged to the passenger door as William opened it for me.
Leaning forward, he whispered, “We can talk more in the car, Isabelle.”
I nodded, sliding into the car. He closed the door for me then made his way around to the driver’s door, getting in. I turned to get a final look at Valentino, but he was already in one of the limos that were pulling away.
We silently drove down the long, winding driveway out of the estate. I stared out the window, watching the trees pass us as I thought about the strange journey I had recently come to know. I began to pick at my fingernails as I bit my lip in deep thought, debating if I should speak my mind. With as many risks I had taken lately, I was feeling more inclined.
Deep breath, Isabelle. “How's Tanya?” I blurted without further hesitation, still staring out the window.
William cleared his throat, drawing my attention toward him. His hands curled tighter around the steering wheel. His knuckles turned white as his grip intensified. Glancing over at me from the corner of his, now narrowed eyes, he crushed the inside of his cheek as he chewed it.
“I'm guessing you're not allowed to discuss it?” I muttered. “I should have known.”
“I think you should talk to Valentino about that.”
He was trying to mask his irritation. I could sense it. I did not want to pry, but a part of me could not help it. I had burning questions. Suddenly, I found myself unable to control my mouth any longer. Tanya, despite what had happened, was my best friend. Maybe it was because I was trapped in the car with her boyfriend, but I was feeling bold and protective.
“Can I at least ask you something,” I blurted, crossing my arms, hoping for a reply.
He sighed. “Do I have a choice in the matter?”
