Raizon

Everything that I need from my office was safely in the messenger bag slung across my shoulder, along with Arianna's device in her own bag.
Entering the kitchen, Dion was already there dressed and ready to go.
"I'm sorry my friend, " I said to him.

"No need. I've been with your father for years to know sleep is a luxury. You keep Miss Arianna safe. I'll head to the apartment now, have her call me, " he replied.
Handing him the keys to Angela's and the security code Arianna wrote for him, I gave him a handshake of goodbye and left the kitchen. The Chopper was ready to go, Gio and Hanes flanked my sides as I ran to it. The guards I left with Arianna were surveying the area while staying close to her. Hopping up to the seat beside her, I found her quiet, face expressionless and headphones on. The guys came in next, giving the pilot the green to go.

Up in the air, I reached into my bag and got the gun I secured for her when I first saw her that night. I was confused at first as to why I did that but the past week or two clarified my actions. She was meant for me all along. Taking her hand in mine, I placed three clips in her hand and a 9MM Sig Saur.

"If we are to separate and under fire, I want to be sure you're protected. Not just by the guys but by yourself, " I told her over the headphones. She turned to me and I knew she saw the haunted look in my eyes, the same I saw in hers. The thought of being separated was daunting but this is the life I lived. If she wishes to be out of it, I will let her go. I love her too much to keep her somewhere she's uncomfortable.

"How far is the house from the hospital?" she asked inserting a clip into the gun and flicking the safety on. Why is it a turn on when there's a gun in her hand?

Glancing at the guys, I saw the admiration and pride they had on their faces when she tested the weight of the gun in her both hands then slipped it in the back of her jeans. Her long cardigan hid it perfectly.

"Eight blocks, " I answered.

"What happened?"

Gio relayed everything to her in full description with her asking a few questions and me, watching her closely. Maybe I was stupidly waiting for her to freak out but gradually that expectation waned when she took in everything.

"Thank you," she said after it all, reaching for my hand. I quickly tightened my fingers around hers and stayed in the silence of the cabin as we flew over the city.

News channels will be bombarding the bomb sites and hospitals the victims were taken to. My business line will be ringing off the hook, an official statement will have to be made but first, the victims.
I need to visit them especially Michael. Eyeing Arianna, I can tell she was hiding all her emotions from me. Is she afraid to do so with me knowing their history?
Squeezing her hand gained me her attention, "It's okay."

With those words out in the open, we all watched on as she silently broke down. Those tear-filled eyes were locked on mine, I didn't know what to do.

"Is it bad of me with wanting to kill Monroe myself?" she cried.

What should be serious, was fucking cute and funny as hell. Tears flowing down her cheeks, the sobs in her voice as she asked that question and the way she looked at me with those curious eyes was just too cute. The guys were chuckling at her state and shook their heads no in response.

"No baby. It isn't. If he was a normal schmuck who was doing these attacks it would have been a done deal. But. He's a fucking bloodsucking politician in the spotlight. He must be dealt with differently. Now. Please don't ask that question again, looking so cute because I was minutes away from giving these guys a show," I said kissing her wet lips and drying her tears.

"Okay, but I want him to suffer though. I can't eat bacon because of him. Bacon, Ray," she argued.
I couldn't stop the laugh that escaped me. It filled the cabin, both loud and joyous.

"Sorry for laughing kitten. We will deal with him alright," I said trying to placate her and even myself but that pout on her lips was too much.

"Fine. It's hard for you huh? Not going in with guns blazing," she asked.

"Yeah. I've never had any purpose to go after him. Well, father's death may be but going in for revenge right after would have faulted into many unnecessary deaths. I thought with my silence would have been enough for him but I think he's paranoid. Someone ruffled his feathers enough to make his move first. Our contacts are keeping an eye on his contacts, I have eyes on him but it seems like he has help from someone. He's not this precise," I relayed to her. Arianna knows about Monroe as much as us, it made no sense to keep her in the dark. The man has her in his sights, she ought to know the danger around her.

"Hmmm. Okay," was her reply before getting lost in her thoughts once again. Glancing at the guys, they too were trying to figure out what's going on in that head of hers.

"Landing in five minutes. Jackson Memorial has given us clearance. The chief is waiting for you, sir," The pilot relayed over the headphones.

"Thank you."

Those five minutes were spent in silence and powering down when we landed on the helipad. Keeping hold of her hand, I followed my men towards the roof exit where five uniformed officers were standing at the bottom of the stairs waiting for me. The chief stepped forward, he glanced at Arianna before focusing on me.

"We've all the victims named including your boy Humphreys. The hospital staff who attended to them are under strict orders not to divulge any information. Humphreys' men are standing guard at his room and freaking out the nurses and doctor," he said handing me a folder which I handed to Arianna. She quickly went through the names as we walked to the elevator. "My assistant should be here. Do you want to oversee the victims after you visit Michael?" I asked of her. I smiled at the surprised gasp that escaped her.

Gio, Hanes, the chief, two of his officers, Arianna and myself filled the elevators, leaving the others to take the staircase.

"I'll understand if you rather not..." I started.

"I'll do it. I'm just shocked by your willingness to delegate so easily,"she said biting her lips. Not caring for the company with us, I gently placed a kiss on her lips and cheek. "Someone mentioned I had people around who cares for me," I whispered in her ear.

"Yes, they do," she returned snaking her arm around my waist. Taking in her appearance, I saw the signs of tiredness, she probably saw my frown and gave me a nod to placate me.
The elevator came to a stop to the floor Michael was warded on, her grip on me became tighter. She was scared to what she's about to see. We haven't had any official report on his injuries. He was still in emergency surgery when I was called. Going down the hall, the heavily armed guards were easy to spot, nurses and doctors took a wide berth and family members of patients were wide eyed with curiosity and fear. Upon approaching the room, the guards dropped their facade, these weren't men to show emotions lightly, they were all mercenaries and ex soldiers who saw war.

"He's still unconscious, sir. Good night, Miss Lincoln," Trace said aloud.

"Hi." Her response was a mere whispered and distracted. On her own volition she entered the hospital room while I stood back and allowed her sometime with her best friend.
From where I stood, I saw how her body wracked violently with sobs, she then gingerly climbed into bed next to him, minding his bandaged chest and closed her eyes, resuming her silent cries. My heart ached at the sight, not of jealousy but of the pain that was going through her again for the third time tonight. I won't be surprised if she fell asleep.

Turning to the men that await their orders, I saw how they too were affected by the scene in the room. The chief approached me first. "He sent me footage of the cars being around the area two nights straight, along with the info they got on the plates and cars. Preliminary report from the fire department confirmed there were one person each in the cars. Bomb squad will have more to tell us . Your men told me one person could be hold accountable for this and he's in a whole other state. This means we have to find the locals who did this to calm the media and public. You remember, keep your investigation quiet. If you need official help, you tell me. Some of my officers are at your clubs taking reports and talking to your staff. With your permission I will like to release a subdue statement to the media of the findings and beginning of the investigation."

"Agreed. I will make a public statement to a select few in a few hours after I get all the specifics. I need all your local explosives enthusiasts who have been detained and released by you all. I will have to make my own trip to visit my old acquaintances. Monroe can sugarcoat shit to make it edible. Are there any media downstairs?" I asked just as my phone alerted me of a message.

"Word of the CEO reached them. They are swarming the grounds now, " he informed me.

"His family should be arriving soon. Treat this with discretion. One of you, get me the doctor. Trace, my assistant is downstairs. She's out front, she's not to say anything to the press, " I said to them.

A round of 'yes sirs' was said before they all went to their duties. The chief left but his officers still roamed the hall. Michael 's remaining guards stood sentry on either side of the door.

"What's your take?"

"Michael was the target. The other three bombings a distraction or a plan to put the media on the Delacourde name. The attack on a young billionaire encompasses any Hollywood scandal or minor political news for 2, maybe 3 weeks. I'm thinking more with a CEO being one of the victims at a gentleman's club." Rick, one of Michael's oldest guard was the one who answered. 

"I deducted that also. We'll let it be. For now..." I started to say only to be interrupted by Arianna's sleepy voice.

"No, we won't. His ego will inflate. He thinks he will have the upper hand after this. Michael is the third one he got close to, Ray. I bet he's gloating wherever he's at. I've been looking over the files you gave me. I recognized four of the people he regularly contacts here in Boston.  Start there to break him. Without high reaches, he will slip. Find reporters who will want him buried. Anyone can alert the media plus it will be beneath you to do so. I've studied your MO, baby. Guns blazing with smart intent. I've got some more ways but... I think I need to go home, " she said.

She swayed slightly on her feet causing a little panic among us. Acting on instinct, I picked her up bridal style and took a seat on one of the chairs outside of the room. What she said made absolute sense. I was focused on making him disappear right away not focusing on the man himself. Having her go through the files I've kept was a smart choice.

"I"ll have the tech team get to it right away. Before we go home, what's your plan for the victims?" I asked composing a text on my phone while holding her. In hindsight, I gave her this little part of the night's case to see if she really wanted to be part of the illegal sides of things. Her take on getting Monroe to break was superb, but there are other things one has to take care of.

"We can take care of the medical bills and cover counseling if they need, " she muttered burrowing deeper into my hold.

"That's exactly what one should do in a situation like this. My assistant is here, " I said, spotting Trace and the slender redhead who has been my assistant for three going on four years. My father's loyal assistant for many years resigned a week after his funeral. I witnessed how her grief affected her work, I wanted her to stay but she felt it wise to retire to the house father gifted her four days before his death.

"Good morning, Mr. Delacourde sir, " she greeted standing on the other side of the hall. I didn't miss the curious look she had on her face when she spotted Arianna in my arms. Muffling her yawn into my chest, I gently nudged her into a sitting position. She really needs her rest, I chastised myself.
"Miss Caine. This is my girlfriend. Arianna Lincoln. You may have seen her name on the handover documents I asked you to prepare."

No one missed the way she flinched at my mention of the word girlfriend. Arianna stood before me and offered her hand to my assistant. "Hello. I wish we could have met in a more welcoming situation, " she said. Miss Caine eyed my girl then me.

"N-Nice to meet you..... Ma'am, " Miss Caine returned rather stiffly. The way she shook Arianna's hand limply, practically shaking her fingers in disdain, had me jumping to my feet abruptly ready to call her out on her disrespectful action. Arianna leaned back into my body and that calmed me instantly. Reaching for the folder I gave her, she pulled out the list of victims and handed it to Miss Caine. "All victims medical bills are to be paid, reassure each family that the care for their injured relative will be sorted and a member of the Delacourde family will be available to them in their time of need. Now will be a fragile time for them so make discreet inquiries about each victim and bring it back for me. Is that all, baby?" Arianna had a smug look on her face when she asked me that question.

"Yes, my love, " I answered. My assistant again blanched at my words but quickly schooled her features.

"All will be done, Miss Lincoln."

Arianna eyed her carefully then turned to face me. "I'm going to say goodbye to Michael," she said kissing my lips lightly.

"Take your time. I need to have a talk with Miss Caine and also the attending doctor for Michael, " I said coldly, already looking at my assistant. The guards were now deaf to the conversations around them, it was part of their job.

They see nor hear a thing within our circle.

Hearing the closing click of the door I inched closer to my assistant. "If I ever see you disrespect my woman before me or the men I have around her for protection, you will be searching for a next job in the coming ten years."

Her eyes widen in fear by my statement, waiting for her to come up with some idiotic response, she began to stutter like a child caught stealing.

"I'm looking out for your best interest, Mr. Delacourde. I have no knowledge of this woman to say I trust her. She- she can be a threat to the company....."

I raised my eyebrows at her insinuation. "Are you questioning my judgment? Or is it the little infatuation you've developed for me clouding your thinking?" I asked. Her face turned beet red at my statement. I wasn't being egotistical about my looks and position but I noticed her behavior on numerous times and also her facial expressions. Her snubbing of Arianna proven that also.

"N-No sir. If I may be frank, I didn't expect you to have an interest in someone of her....ummm..." she replied, clearly looking for the right words.

"Her what?"

"Background, sir, " she finally said. I knew what she truly meant and didn't like it one bit.

"You're right. I didn't expect to be with such a gorgeous, smart, strong black businesswoman. Yet here I am with her as my only. You may get to the duties Miss Lincoln placed in your care. Good night Miss Caine, " I said in a steely tone, dismissing her from my presence. She didn't dare say another word. I watched on as she left the hallway and entered the elevator with two of my guards following her. Upon her departure, a doctor along with Michael's guard approached me. The man was around my age or older, I couldn't tell by his college kid appearance and the years of experience in his eyes.

"Good morning Mr. Delacourde. I'm Dr. Benard. Mr. Humphrey's attending doctor. I was briefed by the police of this unfortunate case. Out of all six, Michael was the only one within enough distance to retain long term damage. The power of the blast not only threw him a few feet away but few shrapnel were lodged in his arms and face, few even pierced his Kevlar vest. Severe concussion . Broken arm. Fractured ribs from impact. The wounds will heal in time. What we are more concerned about is his memory when he wakes. There's a possibility of short or long term memory loss. He will wake on his own but overall he's fine. A CT-scan will be done and a MRI. Here is his tox-report. Usually in bombings now, protocol states to test to any foreign bodies that may spread into the air. Thankfully none was found so we can rule out Terrorist attack for the police. Is there anything else you will like to know? I wish to do my last check up on him before I clock out."

Through out his explanation, I knew our speculations were correct. Michael was surely the target. "No, doctor. Go ahead," I told him distractedly and followed him into the room.

"Oh. I knew about one patient, not two," the doctor exclaimed with a slight chuckle. Stepping around him, I saw what he meant. Arianna was asleep beside Michael with her arm around his torso.
"His best friend," I stayed with a smile.

"Is she alright? She looks a bit pale."

"She recently woke up from a coma, kidney removal and a bruised heart. Maybe it's the stress of the night?" I asked with worry while panic was threatening to rise to the surface.

"May I?"

With a nod, he approached her and checked her pulse gently then her heart rate. She stirred awake and immediately went in defense mode.

No wilting flower, she was. When she saw me behind the doctor she relaxed.

"I'm your friend's doctor. Dr. Benard. Mr. Delacourde gave me permission to give you a check up after I noticed your coloring a little off."

"Oh. Thank you. I am feeling a bit weaker than usual. I chucked it up to being tired?" She said sitting up gingerly.

"Your body has been pushed too much probably. Any headaches? Chest pains? Stomach?"

"Headache but I was told no aspirin medication ," she answered.

"She's right. Patients on one kidney has to be aware of daily dangers, hence the all natural diets and list of things to avoid doing. You need to rest a full eight hours. I will have a nurse give you two pain killers for now. When is your outpatient appointment ?" He asked.

"In a few hours at St. Helen's," I answered going to Arianna's side.

"Then I'm positive your doctor will prescribe you the necessary medication to keep your body full 100% and help your kidney to work for the whole immune system. I think you should go home and rest in a more relaxing area. Though we have beds here it's still not much of a Nirvana here," he said with a shrug of his shoulders.

"Thank you, doctor," I said gratefully. Arianna came to a stand to my side, allowing me to wrap my arms around her.

We both watched on as he checked Michael , telling us everything he was doing and it's result. I guess it both eased the tension in our bodies when he gave us a good report on his health.

"Thank you again doctor," Arianna said offering her hand. Accepting her offer, he shook her hand then mine, leaving soon after. She gave Michael a kiss good bye and allowed me to escort her safely down to the basement car park.

The drive to my home was a bit long, in the more residential side of the city. We talked things over about what is to happen next before she fell asleep. The sun was rising by the time we arrived at the three story town house, I was excited for her to see the home I want to make ours but she needed sleep. Thankfully, I got the doctor to reschedule till after lunch, whenever she wakes, we will start our day.

"House is secure sir. Vinny has already been situated," Gio said from the front seat as I gathered my kitten in my arms.

"Very well. Alert me if it's dire."

With their firm responses assuring me of their protection, I left the car and entered the house with the help of two of my men. There was no time to assess the changes my decorator did recently, I needed to rest and have Arianna in a comfortable place. The entire third floor was my suite with two rooms on the second floor as guest rooms. I wasn't surprise to find a sleeping Vinny, near the bed when I entered the sleeping area. His head perked up when I got closer, lazily he sniffed my feet and his mistress' hand when I lowered her to his level.

"She's fine. Let's get her tucked in, we have a long day ahead," I said placing her atop the bed covers of the king sized bed.

Gently I undressed her, leaving her bare minus her pink and blue flamingo underwear set. I chuckled at how cute she looked in them, placing a kiss on her slightly parted lips and neck.

"Ray? Come to bed," she mumbled sleepily before turning to her side.

"Yes, my love," I replied softly, stripping to my briefs and joining her at her side. Vinny hopped up also and found a spot good enough for him as I covered us both with the blanket.

"Welcome home, Kitten ."

I found myself thinking of a future with this woman in my arms. Surprisingly, the prospect of our own kids came to my mind. A future without threats over our heads is what I want now.

Arianna

The hot breath and cold nose of a certain dog roused me, from my sleep.
"I'm up. No need to kill me in my sleep," I muttered pushing Vinny away. He gave me a low gruff before lying down while I sat up. Immediately I knew I was in Ray's townhouse. The decor of this master suite was of soft greys, browns, and splashes of colors in the pillows, artwork, and drapes. To me, it was the combination of both our tastes. Did he do this for us?

Stretching my stiff muscles, I left the large bed and explored the suite, grabbing the silk bathrobe that was placed on the bench by the bed. A fireplace was in the bedroom area with a love seat and an armchair facing it, a large rug was added to add the whole romantic factor. The crown molding was carved designs in white and brushed with gold for a Victorian feel. Leaving the room, I peeked into the door closest to the bedroom. This was the closet, both his and hers. My suitcase was unpacked and what little clothes I had there was nothing compared to Raizon's side.

I think I need to go shopping.

The large closet had a door leading to the bathroom suite and an exiting door to the bedroom.
Eyeing the large Jacuzzi tub, I saw myself in there in nights to come with a book in my hand. His and her sinks and countertops, marble and gold was the theme. A large walk-in shower with marble benches and two entries,big enough to hold more than two persons, multiple shower heads, this one shower screamed money. That's when I noticed  my hair products and bath gels, I normally used.

How does something so simple makes me sigh like a lovesick teenager?
Leaving the bathroom and the bedroom, I was welcomed by the living area and glancing through a far door was a small dining area.

"This has to be an entire floor," I muttered to myself leaving the suite entirely. Hardwood floors met me as I surveyed the other rooms open to the naked eye. An office, another sitting room and a locked door. I was curious as to why that was the only one locked but my stomach was leading me at this point.

By the time I approached the staircase to go down, Vinny was at my side. Forgoing an exploration of the second floor, I made my way to the ground floor and followed the sound of Khalid blasting in the speakers and the scent of  sausages. It all led me to the view of my shirtless, tattooed man in a low hung lounge pants. He was talking into his Bluetooth earpiece while tending to sausages and blood pudding at the same time.

"Forward everything  to our iPad , including the miscellaneous stuff we as men tend to look over. Anna will be able to help us with this situation."

He paused in the conversation and plated the meats then turned his attention to making pancakes.

"I know. I didn't want to involve her fully because of Monroe. He attacked her knowing she was friends with Gianni and the boys. Imagine how motivated he will become when he finds out she's my woman."

I padded closer to him, seeing how tense he was becoming. Without saying a word, I snaked my arm around his waist and my hand on his wrist. Pride took hold of me when his whole body relaxed and he leaned slightly into my body.

"She's awake now. We will leave in two hours or whenever she's ready to leave. Thank you, Gio," he said ending the call.

"Good morning, sleeping beauty." Turning slightly and tipping my chin upwards, he placed a soft slow kiss on my lips and gently caressed my cheek with his thumb. Gazing into his olive green eyes, I found my self fantasizing of our future. Quiet mornings as we get ready for our busy days,  just the two of us and maybe a kid or two after a few years.

"Good morning, baby," I returned before turning back to the pancakes. He didn't leave my side. His arms were wrapped around my waist as I finished our breakfast. Between soft kisses and loving revelations, I was able to finally place our morning meal on the table.

"After breakfast, I think we should get a move on. My doctor's appointment, did you reschedule?" I asked.

He looked a bit apprehensive in answering. "1pm was the latest," he said, clearly waiting for my reaction.
I was confused by this.

"Why are you nervous?"

"I know how independent you are. I fear that my uphanded way may annoy you,"he replied.

"It's okay, baby. You're right it may annoy me but not in this situation. During all the drama with Michael you still thought about my health. I appreciate that a lot baby," I returned honestly.

"I love taking care of you."

We spoke about our day and what happened a few hours ago in great detail till the conversation was filtered down to the house we were now in.

"I love what I've seen so far which reminds me, I have to do some shopping or have clothes from the estate brought across," I said gathering our dishes.

"We can go shopping. New outfits for your new position in the business world," he offered.

" Didn't see it as that. Will we have time?"

"I think we do. That's if you wish to push your surprise to the last item for the day," he replied with his signature crooked smirk.

I groaned, thinking hard of what can he possibly done for me. In a few short days, I was given businesses, personal bodyguards, my SUV was custom detailed, two new homes to call my own and partridge in a pear tree.
To anyone outside looking in on our relationship, it may look like I fucked him into submission and he handed them all over to me. To me, it was Raizon's  way of finally finding love and his want to take care of me. All these material things don't compare to the look in his  eyes, he was giving me now. I dreamed of having a man like this. Michael was the first to do so but my heart was giving him one quarter of the love he blessed me with.

Now.

Now my heart matched his love. Universal connection, I called it. I found it in the most unlikely way.

"I'm reluctantly saying yes so I will get more time to think of your surprise," I answered.

"It's unconventional," he offered.

"Oh that narrows it down," I retorted with a roll of my eyes.
Chuckling at my silliness, he pulled me into his lap and untied my robe.
"Where do you get these quirky underwear?" He asked tracing the outline of my bra.

"I order a  few online but buy most at a store right here in the city."

"You look so adorably sexy in them," he said placing kisses on my cleavage before playfully burrowing his face into it.

"You big baby," I laughed aloud, running my fingers through his hair.

"Yours."

"Yeah. Mine," I breathed out getting lost in his soft gaze.
Slowly, I lowered my lips to his and immediately got caught up in the explosive passion that always come to life whenever we kiss. His possessive hold on became tighter, my body reacted accordingly to his touch. My center began throb and beg in need for more. My breasts felt heavier, my nipples painfully puckering wanting his attention. This man had control of my body, just as I do with his. His hardening member brushed against my thigh. I can feel how thick and heavy he was.
The myth of white men is such a lie. My man was wonderfully  endowed and I can't wait to feel him in me.

"Tonight," he breathed out when I began to move against his member.

"Optimistic?"

"Desperately so, my love. I need to love you fully. I need to show you that I am yours in one last way," he said in a strained voice against my lips.

"You've already shown me enough, Ray," I reminded him as I ended our kiss.
My heart ached when I saw the vulnerable look in his eyes. He must have seen the bewildered look on my face. A blush stained his cheek followed by the self conscious chuckle that escaped him.

"As you know, I'm new to all of this. Father didn't believe in outwardly showing love. He was a man's man. Gigi and I knew his subtle signs of 'I love you, son' or 'I'm proud of you'. Mother was shown by his strong protection detail, lavish gifts and secret smiles of public affection. I want to be different. I want you to feel my love for you. Do you feel it,
Kitten? Am I doing it right?"

Blessed spirits, this man was a novel worthy romance hero.

"Yes. Yes to feeling your love and yes to doing it right," I answered. He wrapped his arms tightly around me, taking a deep breath and muttering , "My Kitten", in my chest.
Raizon may be protecting me but I know I have to protect him also. Physically and emotionally.

An hour later, we were both dressed to impress for the business meetings and day out we planned for the day. Vinny was coming along, not only because I didn't want to leave him alone but he was also registered as my emotional support dog. Stephen did this after a panic attack when I got the news of my foster brother's death. Little things don't set me off but the boys agreed that I should have Vinny around as both emotional support and physical protection.
Our first stop was at Angela's. My knee was actually bouncing in excitement as we go nearer. Ray had an amused smile on his lips through out the entire way. Finally arriving at my home away from home, I hurriedly got out onto the sidewalk with my bag and Vinny's leash in my hand and gazed at the changed signage.

"You like it?" I heard Ray asked behind me.

"Love it. It looks better than the designs. Let's go inside," I replied pulling him towards the front entrance. The door was already unlocked which meant my staff was already there. I gasped at the new colors I chose and upholstery for the chairs. The bar had minor changes which were the stools and the bartenders storage for their glasses and liquor. They both had a say in the changes to make their work station more comfortable.

"You were going for more an open less crowded feel huh."

"Yeah. I want to expand but there are a few bumps I have to get across with that. For now, I'm happy with the changes. Thank you for keeping it on schedule," I said to him over my shoulder. The smile he gave me shone through his eyes as he stood afar, allowing me to peruse the restaurant on my own.

"Boss? Is that you?"

I laughed at the questioning yet excited voice of my hostess.

"RISA!!" I screamed aloud.

A commotion erupted at the back before I saw my entire staff rushing out to greet me. Tears filled my eyes by their genuine excitement in seeing me. Hugs and kisses were shared along with joyous comments of welcome even Vinny joined the ruckus.

"Can you people please move so I can greet my friend?" I heard Patrick say.
Gently pushing through my staff, the tears that I held were set free by seeing my old class mate and co-chef in his typical denims, T-shirt and converse with his shaggy blonde hair.

"Welcome back, Ari," he said with his voice breaking a bit as I reached him. The hug I gave him was tight, he did so much more than just being the only chef while I was out. He kept the staff moving, the patrons were happy and Angela's was still in the top ten best eateries on food critics list.

"Thank you for everything, Pat," I whispered.

"Anything for you, Ari ," he returned. Looking over his shoulder, I saw Raizon sitting at a table far away, looking at the proceedings with a smile on his face. He mouthed the words,'Go on,' before setting up his laptop and disappearing into his world.

The slamming of the kitchen doors gave me the presence of Chef Dion.

"Dion. So. What do you think?" I asked him nervously. This man was my hero of the culinary world and thanks to Ray, he will be my new chef for however long he wishes to be. I was twisting my fingers in nervousness, the stoic expression on his face and eyes was bugging me a lot.

After a few silent seconds, a smile bloomed on his face. "A kitchen deserving a top class chef. Well done, Miss Arianna. I will love to be your chef," he said.

I was actually bouncing on my toes along with Patrick. We were both fans of the decorated chef and I knew to work alongside him, Patrick will savor it and learn more techniques.

"Thank you. Thank you so much. Everyone. Gather round." I said aloud. They all quickly took seats and waited for me to begin.

"First of all, Thank you for your support and loyalty to Angela's and not giving Patrick a conniption. My absence caused a lot of speculations and I will clarify it all...." I began. Looking over my shoulder, I found Raizon already looking my way. We agreed to tell my staff, a smidgen of truth from the attack. He gave me a brief nod before I turned back to the ones I call family.
I noticed the girls eyeing Raizon with light blushes on their cheeks and have been whispering among themselves. Only one had a curious look on her face before she turned that look on me. Risa Mendez kept the wait staff in line and myself abreast of things that may damage the flow of day to day runnings.

"My absence was due to my declining health which I kept from a lot of people. Due to the removal of one of my kidneys, my work life has to change. I will no longer be working as chef for Angela's."

As expected, uprising of disbelief and protests began. Raising my hand to silence them, Patrick came to stand by my side. "She isn't leaving us guys. Ari will be more handling the business side of things and be at the forefront with the waitstaff and patrons. You know how she loves to have the patrons comfortable. This change will be no different. The main thing is our boss is back and we have help. Chef Dion is a world class chef and has agreed to be the accompanying chef at Angela's. I bet he can help us gain a fourth Michelin star," Patrick said trying to lighten the mood. They all simmered down and accepted it all. We all talked about the changes that will be made, Dion got to know the staff and I was told about silly things that happened during my time away.

I missed this place so much. Cooking has always been my passion, a dream of becoming a world renowned chef I wished to be fulfilled. Now, I'm just another restauranteur. Not wanting my staff to see me in such a state, I quickly got up and rushed to my office in which I hastily unlocked, partially falling onto the ground but was saved by a familiar arm.

"It's alright. I'm here. I'll always be here."

His words were a whisper in my ear as I cried. This was the first time since I woke up that I cried about the attack and my life changes. I held on so long, putting up this tough girl facade. The broken girl showed up today of all days.

"I-I wanted to do so much. I love being behind the line. To have command of my own kitchen with a full staff was my dream. I can't do that anymore, baby. I can't."

"There are always alternatives," he said turning me around. I was full I'm crying with him trying to dry my tears.

"I know but..."

"You want to be part of the action behind the scenes," he finished for me. I looked at him in awe that he knew me so well.

"I love watching you cook. I always see the passion in your eyes when you do. Even if it's a simple omelet or burger, you do it with love and your own flair. I'm truly sorry for this change in your plans but I promise to be by your side as you work on ways to let the world taste your dishes. Have Angela's known all over. I promise, baby," he continued drying the last of my tears.

What did I do to deserve him?

Hope, I thought I lost was brought back to me. I squared my career to a desk job I didn't want to be in so soon but Raizon's words made me think of more ways to shine.

"Thank you," I all but whispered before allowing him to hold me in his arms.

"I'm just doing whatever it takes for the woman I love to be happy. I'll do anything for you, Kitten."

I didn't need proof of that. He did it already when we weren't even an official couple and I know he will surely do it again, in a different light.

My unlikely champion.