๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐
{โข๐ฉ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ฏ๐๐ ๐๐โข}
๐๐ก๐๐ฆ๐: ๐ฐ’๐๐ ๐ณ๐๐ ๐ป๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐๐ ๐ฏ๐๐.
สส สแดสสษชแดสสแด
-สแดแดแด ษชs แดษด ษชสสแดsษชแดษด-
โคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโคโค
โ ๐๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐ โ
โLoad your rifles,โ The instructor ordered, his voice firm and clipped. โCheck the chamber. Safety off and your finger off the trigger until I tell you to shoot.โ
The five Aces moved in sync- almost. Metal clinked as magazines slid in and bolts snapped forward.
โPut on your headsets,โ He continued, walking past each of them. Everyone obeyed except Hades.
The instructor stopped right in front of him. โSomething wrong, Hades?โ
Hades didnโt answer. He stared straight ahead, his fist tight.
โI said, headset on.โ
A few seconds passed before Hades finally reached for the ear protectors and slid them over his head. The instructor gave a short nod and moved on.
โNow, aim.โ
They all raised their rifles, eyes down the scope, fingers hovering near the triggers.
โThis shit is heavy,โ Morgan muttered, shifting her grip.
โStop complaining and focus. It’s really light.โ Hyce said without looking up.
โMaybe if you lift something other than your ego, youโd handle it better.โ She shot back.
Trevor snorted quietly. Hugo rolled his eyes.
The instructorโs voice cut through their bickering. โFocus on your breathing. Inhale. Exhale. Donโt rush, sniping isnโt about strength, itโs control.โ
They steadied. The range was silent except for their slow, even breaths.
โOn my count,โ The instructor said, glancing down the line. โThreeโฆ twoโฆ oneโฆโ
Five shots cracked through the air, smoke rising from the barrels.
โTargets down. Letโs see how you did,โ The instructor called, stepping forward as the digital screens displayed the scores.
Hyceโs shot blinked dead-center.
โBullseye,โ The instructor noted with approval.
Hugoโs was just beside itโslightly off but still close enough to impress. Trevorโs landed in nearly the same spot.
Morgan frowned as her screen showed a complete miss.
โUgh, come on,โ She groaned under her breath.
Then came Hades. The red dot blinked right at the bullseye. Perfect.
โNice, Hades,โ The instructor said, a trace of admiration in his tone.
โAs expected,โ Hades replied, lowering his rifle with calm confidence.
โProud jerk.โTrevor scoffed, rolling his shoulders.
โHey, Trevor,โ Hades said, his voice low but sharp enough to cut the air.
โWhat?โTrevor turned, brows raised.
Without breaking eye contact, Hades lifted his rifle again, one hand steady on the grip. He didnโt even look at the target. Two quick shots rang outโbang, bangโand both bullets hit dead center.
The room went silent.
โSee?โ Hades tilted his head slightly, a smirk tugging at his lips. โIโm not being proud. Itโs a fact.โ
He rested the rifle on his shoulder, eyes still locked on Trevor.
โIโm better than you.โ
โContinue practicing,โ The instructor ordered.
The Aces reloaded and began shooting again, the arena echoing with rapid gunfire and the smell of gunpowder.
Then suddenlyโ
โAhh!!โ Bluey screamed as she stumbled inside, the deafening noise shocking her.
She covered her ears tightly, trembling at the barrage of shots.
Everyone stopped.
Hades turned immediately, lowering his gun. Hyce glanced curiously. Hugo stared blankly. Trevor, on the other hand, grabbed his weapon again, eyes flicking toward Bluey, before he tried to shoot at the target again.
But one sharp glare from Hades made him freeze. The tension was palpableโTrevor clenched his jaw, then reluctantly dropped his gun to the table.
โWhat on earth is your business with her, Hades?โ Morgan crossed her arms, glaring.
โI strongly believe that what I do is none of your fucking business.โ Hades said in a quiet, dangerous tone.
He walked toward Bluey. She flinched as he reached her, his tall frame shadowing hers. Gently, he took her hands and pulled them away from her ears.
Her breathing was shaky. He leaned in slightly, close enough that she stepped back in alarmโbut instead of saying anything, he reached behind her, grabbed a water bottle off the counter, and twisted the cap open.
He drank, his eyes never leaving hers.
โIโm done here,โ He said, tossing the empty bottle aside.
Then he took Blueyโs hand firmly but not harshly and led her out of the arena without another word.
The door shut behind them.
โThat stupid Hades!โ Morgan snapped, slamming her gun down.
โYouโre so fucking noisy,โ Hyce muttered, raising his sniper and aiming it casually at her.
Morgan froze.
He fired.
The bullet struck the wall just inches behind her.
โFuck,โ Hyce said lazily, lowering his weapon. โI missed.โ
โHyce, donโt do that again,โ Hugo warned, his tone edged with irritation.
โWhy not? Sheโs so noisy,โ Hyce replied, smirking as he unloaded his rifle and leaned it against the table.
Morgan shot him a glare but didnโt say anything this time.
The room was filled with the faint ringing of metal and the smell of smoke, but one person wasnโt paying attention at all.
Trevor stood still, gun hanging loosely by his side, eyes fixed on the door Bluey had just exited through.
He didnโt even hear the others arguing. His mind had drifted completely.
Bluey.
Is that the Bluey girl? he thought, recalling her startled expression, the way her eyes had widened. So she’s the girl Hades is all over? .
Seems like I found your click button, Hades.
—-
โ ๐๐ฉ๐๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ- ๐๐๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ญ๐ โ
They entered his suite, the door closing behind them with a soft click. The room was silent except for the faint hum of the air conditioner.
Hades shrugged off his jacket, then reached for the hem of his black shirt and pulled it over his head in one swift motion.
Bluey froze. Her breath hitched as her eyes trailed over his toned chest and the faint sheen of sweat glistening on his skin.
She swallowed hard, her cheeks burning, her gaze darting anywhere but him.
โYou ate breakfast, right?โ He asked, his voice low and rough.
She nodded quickly.
โUmโฆ wonโt I get punished for skipping class?โ She asked.
Without answering, Hades picked up his phone and dialed a number.
โWhat is it?โ Miss Doraโs voice came through the line.
โBluey Cruise,โ He said flatly. โSheโs skipping class.โ
โWhat theโโ
โSheโs with me,โ Hades cut her off.
There was a brief silence.
โโฆOh. Okay.โ
He ended the call and turned to Bluey.
โItโs settled.โ
She blinked, still processing what had just happened, and gave a small nod.
โO-okay.โ
โDoes my voice still scare you?โHades took a step toward her.
Her hands tightened at her sides as she looked down.
โUmโฆ noโฆโ she mumbled.
He stopped right in front of her, close enough that she could feel the warmth radiating from his skin.
โThen why canโt you look at me?โ His tone dropped, almost a whisper, but there was a sharp edge to it. โWhy do you keep flinching like Iโm some kind of monster?โ
Her heart pounded.
โYou think I like it ?โ He continued, his voice quieter but heavier. โEvery time I speak, you shrink back. Every time I look at you, you tremble. Do you have any idea how that feels?โ
Bluey slowly raised her eyes to meet his. โIโm sorryโฆ I justโโ
โI donโt want you to be scared of me,โ He said, interrupting softly this time, his gaze dark but conflicted. โI want you to look at me and enjoy hanging out with meโฆ without fear.โ
For a moment, neither of them moved. The tension hung thick in the air, the silence louder than any word spoken.
Hades walked out on her, heading upstairs to his room.
Bluey let out a shaky breath, her fingers curling nervously by her sides.
“It’s not my fault that I find you scary,” She whispered to herself. “It’s justโฆ everything Iโve heard about you makes me want to stay away.”
“Bluey!”
She froze at the sound of his voice.
Gathering her courage, she followed the direction it came from, her footsteps light against the marble floor.
She stopped in front of a door, hesitated for a moment, then knocked softly before pushing it open.
“Hades…” Bluey called slowly, looking around.
She looked around the room and he wasn’t there. She heard the splashing of water in the bathroom, so she dragged her feet to the door.
“Hades, you called for me?” Bluey knocked gently.
“Come in,” Hades said, and her eyes widened.
“What!”
She gulped down hard and walked in with her eyes closed tightly.
“I’m here…” she muttered.
“What are you doing?” Hadesโs voice sounded, and she slowly opened her eyes.
She heaved out a huge breath of relief when she saw he was inside the soapy tub. Only his head and wet upper body were visible.
His eyes were staring at her with that usual, unreadable intensity, but this time, a faint smirk played on his lips as he sat regally in the tub, his arms resting on its edges.
“Hades, what do youโ”
“Bath me,” he cut her off.
โW-what?โBluey froze, her lips parting in disbelief.
“You heard me right, and I hate repeating myself..” Hades muttered.
Bluey swallowed hard, clutching her hands tightly onto the hem of her gown as she bit her lips.
What is she actually supposed to do now? How will she start and where should she end?
โRelax,โ He murmured, eyes still fixed on her. โYou act like Iโm going to eat you.โ
“Yes.. um…. okay” Bluey stuttered and she breathed heavily before walking towards him.
She picked the soap and the bathing sponge before walking around to his back.
With shaky hands, she brought the sponge to his skin, moving it gently over his shoulders.
The water rippled quietly with each careful motion she made. She made sure not to scrub too hard, afraid he might get annoyed โ or worse, yell at her.
The bathroom was silent except for the faint sound of dripping water. The scent of soap filled the air, but even that calmness felt heavy.
It was too quiet. Too quiet. Blueyโs heartbeat sounded louder than the water itself.
She finished with his back and slowly came around to the front. Her eyes flickered to his face โ his eyes were closed, his jaw relaxed. He looked calm. Almost peaceful.
Bluey hesitated before taking his hand. Her small fingers brushed against his palm, and she noticed how easily his palm could swallow hers whole. A tiny breath escaped her lips.
She began rubbing the sponge from his wrist upward, careful and slow, following the lines of his arm until she reached his shoulder. Her throat felt dry.
He was sitting too far from her, so she leaned forward, trying to reach his chest.
The more she stretched, the more the distance teased her โ until suddenly, her feet slipped against the wet tiles.
โArh!!โ
Her gasp broke through the silence as she lost her balance and fell forward โ straight into the warm water with a loud splash.
“Ahh!” Bluey winced softly, her hands flying to her face as she tried to wipe away the soap that had gotten into her eyes.
Her vision blurred for a few seconds, and when it finally cleared, a sharp gasp escaped her lips. She froze completely.
She was straddling Hades.
His cold, unreadable gaze locked onto hers. The water rippled faintly between them, her palms pressed against his bare chest as panic flickered across her face.
“IโI’m so sorry, Hadesโ”
“I didnโt ask you to stop,” he muttered, voice low and firm.
Bluey blinked, her heart hammering wildly. She nodded quickly, fumbling for the sponge that had drifted beside them in the water.
โR-right,โ she whispered and brought it to his chest.
She started scrubbing carefully, her hands trembling as she moved the sponge over his warm skin.
She tried not to look, but her gaze kept straying to the dark tattoos curling across his chest, to the lines tracing over his muscles like art carved from danger itself.
She swallowed hard and continued until sheโd cleaned his chest, shoulders, and arms.
Still, his gaze didnโt waver, it followed her every move, silent and unnerving.
When she finally glanced up at him, she found those same eyes on her, deep and emotionless, as though he were reading her thoughts.
โCan I ask you something?โ She muttered, her curiosity slipping through before she could stop it.
โMm.โ He hummed in reply, his voice low.
โYouโฆ you wonโt get mad, right?โ
He tilted his head slightly, saying nothing โ just gesturing for her to continue.
Bluey hesitated, then bit her lip. โI heard someโฆ rumors about you.โ
โWhat rumors?โ His voice came out quiet but sharp, like a blade wrapped in calm.
โUmโฆโ She fidgeted with the sponge nervously. โThe girls who had feelings for you in the pastโฆ your flingsโฆ that they all died. Is it true?โ
Her voice was barely above a whisper.
โYes,โ Hades said openly, his gaze never breaking from hers. โItโs true.โ
Bluey tightened her fist on the sponge.
“I clearly told them not to fall in love with me. I made it clear what I wanted. But they refused to listen,” Hades said, his voice calm but cold.
“So… about me?” she asked quietly. “Do you want the same thing from me?”
“If thatโs what I wanted Bluey, I would’ve done that by now. You’re still a kid, you can’t handle me. But thatโs not what this is.” Hades said.
She looked at him, unsure, and he reached out, his soapy fingers gripping her chin, making her meet his eyes.
“Youโre not here because I want something from you, like sex.” He said in a low voice.
“Youโre here because I canโt get you out of my head. Youโve been in my thoughts, under my skin. I want you in an intoxicating kind of way. I’ve been loosing my damn mind since I saw you and right now, I don’t think I can stay away from you.”Hades said, his voice raw.
Blueyโs breath hitched. His tone wasnโt angry โ it was something far more dangerous.
“But donโt mistake that for kindness, I’m not always soft.” Hades continued.
“Because one day, when youโre no longer afraid of meโฆ be rest assured…..”He leaned towards her ear.
“I will fuck you, but the difference is you’re going to be the one to beg for it. And when that time comes , I’m gonna fuck you so hard till I make sure all the bones in your body feels numb, and by the time I’m done, I’m gonna make sure you’ll still feel me deep inside you.” He said huskily.
She felt shivers run down her spine.
He leaned out and patted her hair.
“In due time, youโll understand exactly what I mean when I say I donโt plan on letting you go.”
Her heart pounded hard against her chest. She tried to stand, needing air, needing space, but before she could move away, his hand caught her wrist and pulled her back into the water.
She landed on him again, the water splashing even more on the floor.
“Hades….”
The rest of her words cut stuck in her throat when Hades’ hand went to the back of her neck, pulling her closer
He tilted his head to the side and softly pressed his lips against hers.
Her eyes widened as she blinked thrice to make sure she wasn’t hallucinating.
He was kissing her!!
Bluey gripped tightly onto her wet gown. Hades gripped her waist and pulled her closer, probing his tongue inside her mouth.
Bluey couldn’t resist the urge to moan out cutely. When she began responding, Hades broke the kiss.
He gazed onto her round doll eyes that looked at her. His thumb gently caressed her lips.
“I’m the only man allowed to kiss those lips, no one else. I will kill any guy who touches you or even as little looks at you.” He muttered and she slowly nodded, it felt like she was under hypnosis.
Hades looked at her one last time before standing up from the water. He came out of the tub and grabbed his towel, cleaning himself as he left the bathroom
Bluey remained sitting there, staring into space. Her hands went to her lips and she touched it.
“He… He said and did all this, just because he wanted to kiss me?” Bluey muttered in surprise.
She didn’t know when she smiled just by that, but her smile faltered instantly when she remembered Natalie and the guys words.
“I can’t believe I almost got fooled by him. He’s really good.”Bluey said slapping her cheeks lightly.
“Bluey…. You can’t fall in love with him. He’s only going to use you.”She pouted.
—–
โ ๐๐๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ – ๐๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐จ๐ซ’๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ญ๐ โ
Trevor walked into his suite, his shirt still in his hand as he headed toward his room. After a quick shower, he came downstairs and paused when he heard faint music coming from the kitchen.
Morgan was there, moving her hips lightly to the rhythm as she prepared a snack, a headset on her ears. She was wearing his shirt, the fabric brushing against her thighs, and she looked completely at ease.
Trevor leaned against the wall, watching her with a faint smile before walking closer. He slipped his arms around her waist from behind, and she startled a little before realizing it was him.
She took off her earphones and smiled.
โHey, I didnโt know you were back. Want some?โ she asked, pointing at the snack on the counter.
โMaybe later,โ Trevor said, resting his chin on her shoulder. โRight now, I just want you.โ
โBut I’m hungry and I want to eat first.โ Morgan laughed softly, leaning back against him.
โEat when I’m done with you first.โHe murmured, tightening his arms around her.
She turned around to face him, their eyes meeting for a second before Trevor leaned in and kissed her.
โFood first,โ Morgan said, slipping out of his arms with a playful smile.
โYouโre seriously starving me here, Morgan. It’s been weeks since we last fucked, this guy is barely surviving,โ Trevor complained, watching her pull the tray out of the oven.
โYouโll survive,โ She said over her shoulder. โEat something instead of whining.โ
โYouโre unbelievable. Do you ever stop teasing me? Just a quickie please.โ
โYou can watch porn if you’re that horny.โMorgan said.
โYou are the only person I’ve known my entire life that tells her boyfriend to openly jack off to watching porn. You’re so mean.”He huffed dramatically.
โIโm just saving my energy for tonight,โ She replied, a smile tugging at her lips as she set the tray on the counter.
โYou do realize who youโre up against, right? You canโt beat Hades.โTrevor raised an eyebrow.
Morgan paused, her expression softening.
โI know,โ She said quietly.
โThen why bet against him? What if the challenge turns out dangerous?โ
โIโll be fine,โ She said, brushing her hair behind her ear. โDonโt worry too much about me.โ
Trevor sighed and crossed his arms.
โIf you get hurt more than expected, Iโm pulling you out. No arguments.โ
โFine. You win.โMorgan smiled faintly.
โYouโre so stubborn.โHe frowned.
โAnd you still love me, donโt you?โ She teased, tapping his chest lightly.
Yeah, unfortunately.โTrevor smirked. โ
Morgan took one of the snacks, blew on it softly, and held it up to Trevorโs lips.
โOpen up,โ she said with a teasing grin.
Trevor leaned forward, taking a bite.
โMmmโฆ not bad,โ He said with his mouth full. โGuess youโre good for something other than being a trouble magnet.โ
โYouโre lucky Iโm in a good mood.โMorgan narrowed her eyes.
He laughed, catching her wrist before she could pull away. โYouโre cute when you act tough.โ
โEat your food, Trevor,โ She said, trying not to smile.
He took another bite from her hand, his eyes never leaving hers. When he finished, she brushed a crumb from the corner of his lips.
โSee? I take good care of you,โ she said.
โYeah,โ he murmured, still holding her gaze. โYou really do.โ
Morgan smiled, then reached for her phone on the counter. She scrolled through her contacts and tapped on a name.
The call rang twice before Natasha answered.
โMorgan?โ
โYeah. I need you to do something for me,โ Morgan said calmly, glancing at Trevor, who was watching her curiously. โItโs about the party tonight.โ
โWhat is it?โ Natasha asked.
โIโll text you when you get there,โ Morgan said, her tone quiet but sharp. โJust make sure youโre ready.โ
She ended the call and slipped the phone into her pocket, a small, knowing smile tugging at her lips.
โWhat are you planning now?โTrevor frowned.
โNothing you need to worry about,โ She said softly. โI just want to play a little with someone called Bluey.โ
—–
โ ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ๐๐ข๐ซ’๐ฌ ๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ โ 7PM –
Gael walked into the room, the door clicking shut behind him as he loosened his tie. The weight of the day seemed to press down on his shoulders.
He dropped his laptop on the desk beside the bed and exhaled deeply, rubbing the back of his neck.
From the bathroom, the sound of running water faded. Corazon stepped out, wrapped in a silk robe, towel in hand as she dried her damp hair.
Her perfume, faint and floral lingered in the air as she sat in front of the mirror, carefully applying her night cream, her movements calm and unhurried.
Gael turned to look at her, his eyes softening.
โHey,โ He said quietly, moving closer.
She caught his reflection in the mirror but didnโt respond. Her focus stayed on her face as she combed through her hair with delicate strokes.
He walked up behind her, placing his hands gently on her shoulders.
โYouโve been avoiding me lately,โ He murmured, his lips brushing against her neck.
โGael, not now,โ She said, her voice flat but not angry, simply detached.
He sighed and leaned closer, sliding a hand around her waist.
โCome on, Corazon. Itโs been days. Canโt we justโโ
She placed a hand over his and removed it from her waist.
โIโm tired,โ She said, meeting his gaze in the mirror.
The look in her eyes wasnโt cold, it was distant, like she was somewhere far away.
Gael straightened slowly, frustration flickering across his face.
โYouโre always tired lately,โ He muttered under his breath, stepping back.
Corazon said nothing. She simply returned her attention to the mirror, running her fingers through her hair, acting as if his presence no longer affected her.
Gael walked closer, his shirt half-unbuttoned as he leaned on the desk, watching her through the mirror.
โYouโve been distant lately,โ He said quietly, the frustration lacing his voice. โYou barely talk to me anymore.โ
Corazon didnโt look up.
โIโm just tired, Gael.โShe continued combing her damp hair, her reflection calm but detached.
โTired?โ He moved behind her, his hands sliding to her shoulders. She instantly stiffened and pulled away, standing up to grab her robe.
โCorazon,โ He said, his tone sharpening. โIโm your husband. I canโt even touch my own wife now?โ
She tied her robe tightly and faced him.
โI said Iโm not in the mood. Why are you making this a big deal?โ
โBecause it is a big deal!โ His voice rose. โYou barely look at me, you sleep early, you act like I donโt exist! Whatโs going on with you?โ
โNothing is going on!โ She snapped, though her tone carried a hint of guilt. โNot everything has to revolve around you, Gael.โ
He scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief.
โUnbelievable. I canโt even talk to you without getting shut out.โ
She didnโt answer, only turned her back again toward the mirror.
Gael stared at her reflection for a moment longer, his jaw tightening.
โYou know what? Fine. Stay in your mood.โ
He stormed out of the room, the door slamming behind him, leaving Corazon staring at herself in the mirror, her expression blank, but eyes flickering with something she refused to admit.
—-
*Poolside*
Gael sat by the poolside, the night air cool against his skin as he stared into the still water. His shirt sleeves were rolled up.
Maureen walked over quietly, holding a tray with a cup of steaming coffee.
โHere you go, sir,โ she said softly, placing it on the small glass table beside him.
He looked up briefly and nodded. โThank you, Maureen.โ
She hesitated, then asked carefully, โAre you okay, sir? You lookโฆ troubled.โ
Gael let out a faint laugh, one that lacked humor. โIs it that obvious?โ
Maureen offered a small, understanding smile. โIโve worked for you and Madam for years, sir. I can tell when somethingโs wrong.โ
He leaned back in his chair, sighing deeply.
โItโs Corazon,โ he admitted. โLately, sheโs been so distant. I try to talk to her, she shuts me out. I touch her, she turns away. Itโs like Iโm living with a stranger.โ
Maureen listened silently, hands folded before her.
โShe used to smile when I came home. Weโd talk for hours, argue, make upโฆ But now,โ He said, his voice dropping, โshe doesnโt even look at me. Itโs like sheโsโฆ losing interest.โ
Maureen frowned slightly. โMaybe Madam is just stressed, sir. Women go through a lotโsometimes they need space.โ
Gael nodded but his eyes stayed on the water.
โIโve given her space. Iโve been patient. But itโs been weeks. I keep wondering if I did something wrong or if someone elseโฆโ He trailed off, shaking his head. โNo. Corazon wouldnโt do that.โ
Maureen hesitated, then said softly with a smile .โMaybe she just needs you to remind her why she fell in love, sir.โ
Gaelโs jaw tightened.
โMaybe.โ He took a slow sip of the coffee, eyes still dark with thought. โBut love shouldnโt feel like begging for attention.โ
Maureen said nothing more, sensing it was better to leave him alone.
She bowed politely before walking away, leaving Gael alone with the quiet ripples of the pool and his own heavy thoughts.
****
Maureen was walking back toward the servantsโ quarters, her mind still lingering on Gaelโs troubled expression by the pool.
The air was quiet, the soft hum of the night broken only by the sound of crickets.
As she neared the driveway, she spotted Banjo closing the gate after parking one of the cars. He looked up at her, his face unreadable beneath the dim light.
โYouโre still here,โ Maureen said carefully, adjusting her apron.
โI was just about to leave,โ he replied curtly, wiping his hands on a cloth.
Banjo didnโt live on the estate; he usually stayed in the staff housing across town and only came when on duty.
She nodded and was about to walk past when his hand shot out, gripping her wrist.
โWe need to talk,โ he said, his tone low.
โNot here.โHer eyes flicked toward the house, nervous.
A few moments later, they were in her quarters. Maureen closed the door and turned to face him.
โWhatโs wrong with you?โ Banjo demanded, stepping closer. โWhy were you talking with him like that?โ
โTalking?โ Maureen frowned. โI just served him coffee, Banjo. Thatโs my job.โ
He let out a bitter laugh. โDonโt play dumb. You think I didnโt see you there with him? Smiling? Acting all concerned?โ
โI wasnโt flirting,โ she said, her voice firm. โHe was just upset, and Iโโ
โUpset?โ Banjo cut in sharply. โSince when did his feelings become your problem? Youโre a maid, Maureen. Not his comfort.โ
She crossed her arms, visibly offended. โYouโre being ridiculous. Sir Gael is my employer. He was just talking.โ
Banjo stepped closer, his voice lowering but sharper.
โYou live in the same house, you talk to him alone at nightโwhat do you think people will start saying when they see that? Especially his wife.โ
Her patience snapped. โI didnโt do anything wrong, Banjo. Donโt make it sound dirty when it isnโt. Heโs a married man!โ
โThatโs exactly why you should stay away,โ Banjo shot back, his jaw clenched. โYou donโt know what rumors can do. I wonโt have my wife being called someone elseโs weakness.โ
The room fell quiet for a moment, only their heavy breathing filling the air.
Maureen looked away, her voice soft but hurt. โYou donโt trust me at all, do you?โ
Banjo didnโt answer immediately. He stared at her for a long time, then muttered.
โDon’t twist this.”
“Exactly, Don’t pretend like you care about me. We both know the truth, we’re separated so can you please stop acting like you’re my husband and you matter? It’s irritating.”
“You… I’m leaving.”
With that, he turned and walked out, leaving her standing alone in the dim light, torn between frustration and guilt she didnโt deserve.
—-
-๐๐๐- ๐๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐-
Night descended over the campus, but the air was far from quiet.
The sound of thumping bass and laughter echoed across the streets as groups of students made their way toward the infamous Frat Hall โ the largest frat house on campus.
The road leading there shimmered under the neon glow spilling from streetlights and portable speakers.
Girls in bikinis and short cover-ups walked in groups, drinks in their hands, glitter dusting their skin. Some danced as they moved, swaying to the beat even before reaching the party.
Guys followed behind, carrying coolers of alcohol, tossing beer cans back and forth, the smell of rum and smoke already blending into the air.
Someone yelled, โLetโs gooo!โ and the crowd cheered in return, laughter bursting through the night.
As they approached the house, the full chaos came into view โ lights flashing red, blue, and purple against the white walls, music pounding so hard it could be felt in the chest.
—–
โ ๐๐ฉ๐๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ โ
Natalie, Loci, and Zayne stood downstairs in front of the dorm, the night buzzing with laughter and distant party music.
Natalie kept tapping her foot impatiently, glancing up at the building.
“What’s taking them so long?” She muttered, crossing her arms.
“She said sheโs not coming unless she wears her sweater,” Loci said, scrolling through her phone.
Zayne leaned against the railing, sipping from his soda can.
โSheโs probably overthinking it, bikini on one night won’t hurt.โ He said lazily, though the small smirk tugging at his lips showed he was curious too.
Moments later, the dorm door burst open and Nia strutted out grinning like sheโd just won a prize. And behind her, slowly and nervously, came Bluey.
All three of them froze.
Blueyโs skin glowed under the soft hallway light, her bikini perfectly hugging her curves.
Her hair fell loosely down her shoulders, and her cheeks were tinted with shy pink. She crossed her arms over her chest, trying to hide, but that only made her look even more irresistible.
Natalieโs jaw dropped.
โGirl, youโve been hiding this hot body under those church gowns?โ She blurted, her voice echoing in disbelief.
โDamn, Bluey. Youโre out here looking like temptation in human form.โLoci let out a low whistle.
โItโs Niaโs faultโฆ she forced me to change.โ
Bluey looked away shyly.
โOf course, why not. It’s a pool party, not a ceremonial service.โNia scoffed.
But Zayne wasnโt saying anything. His usual teasing smirk had vanished, replaced with wide-eyed surprise.
He couldnโt stop staring, she looked so innocent, like she didnโt even realize the kind of effect she had.
Nia laughed, linking arms with Bluey.
โCome on, before you make the whole dorm faint. Letโs go set the frat on fire.โ
—-
The party was in full swingโmusic thumping so loud the ground almost vibrated beneath their feet, colorful lights flashing over the crowd dancing around the pool.
The smell of alcohol and perfume filled the humid night air.
Sergio arrived with Dawn and Desiree, weaving through the mass of students.
Desiree immediately flipped her hair and grinned, taking in the sight of shirtless guys and girls in glittering bikinis.
โGod, this party is so lit,โ Desiree said excitedly, her eyes scanning the crowd.
โI swear, if I donโt find a hot guy tonight, Iโll start doubting the entire male species.โ
Dawn tugged nervously at the hem of her crop top.
โGuysโฆ youโre sure I look pretty enough?โ Dawn asked, biting her lip as she glanced around.
โGirl, relax.โ Desiree said, throwing her arm around her friend.
โYouโve been so tensed up about this party. Can you, like, enjoy it for once? If youโre this worried that he wonโt admire or appreciate how hot you look tonight, thenโnewsflashโheโs not worth it.โ Desiree snapped.
โWhy do you even still like Hugo?โ Sergio cut in, a frown on his face. โHeโs not into you.โ
โHe is,โ Dawn said quickly, her eyes darting toward the other side of the yard as if she might spot him there. โHe justโฆ hasnโt realized it yet.โ
โSuch a lost cause.โSergio shook his head.
Desiree rolled her eyes, snatching a red cup from a table. โUgh, enough about him. Iโll go get us drinks before this party gets any wilder.โ
She disappeared into the crowd, leaving Sergio and Dawn standing by the edge of the pool as laughter and music swirled around them.
—–
Natalie was dancing wildly with Nia under the pulsing lights, her hair bouncing as she laughed and twirled to the beat.
Bluey, however, stood awkwardly by the corner of the pool, her hands gripping her drink as her eyes darted nervously around the crowd.
Zayne and Loci had gone off to grab food and drinks, leaving the girls alone in the chaos of music and flashing lights.
โGirl, relax,โ Nia said, catching her friendโs anxious expression between dance moves. โHades isnโt here yet. Calm down.โ
โI knowโฆโ Bluey murmured, staring into her cup. โI justโฆ I donโt want to see him.โ
โWait, what? Did something happen between you two?โNia stopped dancing, blinking in surprise.
Bluey looked away, chewing on her lower lip. Her mind flashed back to the moment in his suiteโthe feel of his hand on her neck, the way his lips had claimed hers like she belonged to him.
Ever since that kiss, her heart had been in turmoil.
She really didnโt want to see him tonight. Not when her thoughts were this tangled. Not when every time she closed her eyes, she still felt his breath on her skin.
Nia studied her quietly, her expression softening. โYouโve been weird lately, Bluey. Itโs likeโฆ heโs in your head.โ
โThatโs exactly what scares me.โBluey gave a faint, nervous smile.
—-
Loci was over at the grill booth, piling food onto a paper plate while chatting with a couple of guys swimming.
Across the lawn, Zayne walked toward the drink booth beside the pool where a few students were busy mixing colorful cocktails, bottles of vodka and rum gleaming under the neon lights.
โNot sure sheโs going to want to drink alcohol,โ Zayne muttered under his breath, eyeing the punch bowl skeptically.
โHi, cutie.โ
The voice was soft, teasing, and very close. Zayne turned, brows furrowing slightly, scanning to see who she was talking to.
โIโm talking to you, silly.โ
He felt a hand press lightly against his chest. Desiree stood there, eyes glinting under the fairy lights, her lips curved into a seductive smirk.
The scent of her perfume, sweet and a little dangerous drifted between them. Her manicured fingers traced idle patterns over the logo on his shirt as she leaned in, the music pounding behind her like a heartbeat.
โWell, you look like you could use something stronger than soda,โ She said, tilting her head playfully, her voice dripping with confidence.
Then handed him a bottle of alcohol.
Zayne blinked, caught between amusement and disbelief.
โYou flirting with me, or trying to get me drunk?โ
โWhy not both?โDesireeโs smile deepened.
โIโm Desiree,โ She purred, her tone dripping with confidence.
โI know. Youโre a Knight,โ Zayne replied evenly.
โOooh, looks like someone already knows meโโ
โI know every student in MIA,โ He cut in, his voice calm but sharp enough to make her blink.
โSo whatโs your name, cutie?โDesireeโs lips curved into a playful smirk.
โZayne.โ
โWhat level?โ She asked, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
โJack,โ He said simply, eyes flicking to the drink booth.
โAre you alone? I might need some company.โ Desiree winked, leaning closer until her chest brushed against his.
Zayne stepped back slightly, his expression blank. โYou want to fuck me?โ
โOh, straight to the point. Youโre so hot and irresistible.โ Desiree giggled.
โSorry, but I donโt fuck strangers.โ His tone was cool, final.
โHere you go,โ The student at the booth said, handing him the last bottle.
Zayne took it, gave a short nod, and walked off without another glance.
Desiree watched him go, biting her lip.
โWhat an asshole,โ she muttered under her breath, eyes lingering on his back. โBut shit, heโs hot.โ
—-
The screams were deafening the moment The Aces arrived.
The crowd at the pool parted like waves as Morgan, Trevor, Hades, Hugo, and Hyce walked in togetherโan entrance that couldโve been straight out of a movie.
Heads turned, conversations froze, and even the music seemed to dim for a second.
Morgan was the first to steal attention, her red one-piece swimsuit hugging her figure perfectly, paired with a black sheer wrap skirt that danced around her thighs.
Her long hair was pulled up into a messy ponytail, and her confident smirk alone could stop hearts.
Beside her, Trevor looked effortlessly cocky in dark swim shorts and an open floral shirt, his chain glinting under the lights as he held Morgan’s hand tightly.
Hugo wore a sleeveless black vest over his gray swim trunks, cool and composed as always, his sharp jawline and quiet stare making him impossible to ignore.
Then there was Hyce, in his sleeveless white mesh top and short black swim trunks that highlighted his lean build. His silver accessories, glossy lips, and perfect skin had everyoneโgirls and guys alikeโturning their heads.
But the loudest screams? They were for Hades.
He walked in last, shirtless, his tattoos stark against his skin, black swim shorts hanging low on his hips.
His expression was cold as ice and that alone made him even more dangerousโmore magnetic. The kind of man you couldnโt stop looking at even if you knew it would hurt.
Bluey froze the moment her eyes found him. Her heart skipped, her lips parted slightly. He looked even more untouchable tonight, the dim lights bouncing off his wet hair and defined muscles.
She bit her bottom lip, torn between awe and unease.
And thenโhe looked at her.
For one breathless second, their eyes locked across the crowd. His gaze was sharp, unreadable, like he could see right through her.
Then, just as quickly, he looked away, expression still cold, and walked past her as if she were just another face in the crowd.
The Aces headed straight into the building, leaving whispers and stares trailing behind them.
Bluey exhaled shakily. She didnโt know what hurt moreโhis kiss earlier, or the way he could now look at her like nothing ever happened.
—-
-๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐จ๐ฆ-
The VIP room was thick with tension, the air humming beneath the dim golden lights.
The Aces had already taken their seats around the long glass table, drinks in hand, the untouched food glinting in the background.
Nobody was thinking about food. Not tonight.
All eyes were fixed on the large projector outside, broadcasting every second of the event to the students gathered outside, watching intensely.
The crowd buzzed with anticipation, waiting to see what the Aces had planned for the night.
The door opened, and Hades walked in last, calm, composed, his expression unreadable.
The chatter outside died down instantly.
Across the table, Morgan leaned back in her seat, a smirk tugging at her lips as her cold eyes locked with his.
โWell, look who finally decided to show up,โ She said.
Hades didnโt respond, only took his seat opposite her, his fingers brushing over the rim of his glass.
Trevor, standing near the head of the table, glanced between them before clearing his throat.
โAlright, everyone,โ Trevor began, his tone carrying the authority of tradition.
โAs part of the annual ritual, tonightโs Aces representing us in the tournament will be Hades and Morgan.โ
The announcement sent murmurs through the students and loud cheers echoed from outside.
Hades and Morganโs eyes didnโt waver. They both stared at each other like this was a do or die moment.
โWhat’s with the glare?โ Hades asked mockingly, swirling his drink. โArenโt you having fun? Because I am.โ
โIโm not here to play,โ Morgan replied coolly, his voice low and calm. โIโm here to win.โ
Hades tilted his head, that wicked grin deepening. โYou really think you can beat me? I canโt wait to watch you lose, Morgan. Don’t worry, I’m going to play till you’re satisfied.โ
โKeep dreaming,โ She muttered, leaning forward, the edge in his eyes cutting right through her.
The tension was electric, a battle of pride and ego before the actual game even began.
โCan we skip the foreplay and get this over with?โ Hyce said, rolling his eyes as he stepped forward with a sleek black box in his hands.
Its weight alone seemed to command silence.
He set it down in the middle of the table.
โAs usual, the rules stand. The two Aces will draw their fate for tonightโs challenge.โ
Trevor nodded to him, and Hyce opened the box, revealing a set of cards.
He spun a silver penknife across the table between Hades and Morgan and the blade clattered, spun, and finally pointed straight at Morgan.
โLadies first, huh?โ A sly smirk curved her lips.
She slipped her hand into the box, drew a card, and handed it over to Hyce. Hyce gave it to Hades.
“Let’s see what we’re doing tonight, Morgan. Mm.”Hades said, opening the card.
His gaze flicked over the words before a faint grin appeared at the corner of his mouth.
He looked up at her, eyes dark and dangerous.
โThe game isโฆโ He paused deliberately, voice carrying through the room.
Hugo looked at him and from his expression, he loves what he’s seeing which means, the game is extremely dangerous.
Immediately Hades flipped the card across the screen for the students watching to see. Gasps echoed from the hall. Outside, the students screamed in shock and excitement.
๐ดBLOOD DUEL.๐ด
๐๐จ ๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐๐ โฐ
