Ariel And The Cocky Billionaire

Chapter 1 Dantes O'Neil

DANTE'S PENTHOUSE, LOS ANGELES.

The music was blaring so loudly he could hardly hear himself, as much as he enjoys throwing parties in his home. Nothing prepares him for the noise and the cramped room. No matter how much he seeks a small gathering, they would always turn up in plenty. Only Dante O'Neil can throw the best and most expensive party in the entire city. The smell of different sweats morphed together makes his head ache every time.

Sniffing, Dante dragged his staggering self to the bar where his most reserved friend, Aiden Carter, served the drinks. For every party held, he resolves to stick to the bar. Aiden was bad at holding his alcohol and does himself and everyone a favor by not mingling with the others.

"Care for a drink?" Aiden inquired.

"If I take one more shot, I will probably end up in a coma. I am good." Dante waved it off. His eyes blurred. He had promised himself not to drink beyond his usual intake. But his stubborn self had decided to partake in a "never have I" game and ended up chugging almost half of the drink put up for the game.

"I see, the game, uhn," his friend mumbled, and when Dante nodded in response, a small laugh escaped Aiden's lips.

Dante sure is a bad boy, one of the finest of Los Angeles' prominent and good-looking bachelors. Despite being a renowned web designer for the most exotic companies in Los Angeles, Dante thrived on the earnings of his grandfather, who runs a renowned pharmaceutical company in New York. Being the only surviving bloodline, Dante ensures to enjoy the benefits to the fullest and never ceases to extend the chances to his friends and the different kind of ladies he spends his time with.

"How about we go for a ride? You are sober," Dante suggested.

Aiden raised a brow, "and who would look after the people here? Moreover, it's three-thirty in the morning. Don't you think you should take a nap?"

Dante groaned, "stop trying to advise me. Shawn is right here; he can handle everyone." Their eyes searched for Shawn, and they saw him receiving a pleasurable blowjob with his head thrown to the back from a red-haired lady. Dante grinned. "This is why I love Shawn."

Scoffing, Aiden dropped the napkin he had in hand. "and it's obviously the reason why you prefer me as your driver. Crazy being."

Laughing loudly, Dante stood up from the stool and was about to make a move for the door when something hit him from behind. "What the f..." His words didn't form as he was forced to keep mute at the sight of a fuming Renee.

"You bastard!" Renee screamed, bringing the music to a halt. Everyone stared at one another, confused about what the noise was all about.

Dante chuckled awkwardly, "Renee, baby. You are here."

"You son of a gun!" She bellowed, hitting his chest. "how dare you sleep with my friend?"

He scratched the back of his head, "what friend?"

"Don't try to pretend. I saw the message exchange between you and Penelope. To think you slept with each other on my birthday! How much of a scum can you be?" She wailed.

"Oh, that. It was just a one-time thing." He shrugged. His words got him a filled cup of alcohol thrown in his face. "Shit!" Dante cursed under his breath.

"Did you just deny sleeping with me more than once? You and I had sex at the hotel last night!" Penelope came forward to defend herself; she felt betrayed because of how much she had bragged to Renee about her escapades with her friend's boyfriend.

Dante kissed his teeth, glaring hard at both ladies. "The last time I checked, I am not obligated to be with just one of you. I can be with anyone at any time I choose. You're lucky; you should be happy that you got a taste of me. Now get out, both of you. And if anyone is still interested in enjoying the free drinks and food, toss both of them out of my house."

Within the blink of an eye, two hefty guys had lifted each lady, making their way towards the door. Dante looked unfazed by their curses. He wasn't new to the trend, and everyone knows him for being controversial. It's almost like a consolation prize for him to appear in the tabloids every week. DANTE O'NEIL, THE NOTORIOUS HANDSOME HEARTBREAKER.

Still, none of the ladies learn from the falls of their predecessors and choose to give in to him. They had the crazy thought that he might eventually choose either one of them, which makes it more fun for Dante to involve himself with as many ladies as he wants. Most of them were models; he always has a way of causing a ruckus among the entertainers.

"You, my man, are the only mentor I will always look up to," Shawn praised him, joining them at the bar when everything had fallen back to order.

"Do you always have to back him up?" Aiden looked displeased.

"And why do you always have to act offended?" Shawn retorted drunkenly.

Dante had a proud smirk on his face, "I did well, right? Those two have been a hard nut to crack. And I had to spend so much to get their attention. Sucks, right?"

Aiden pushed at his head, "Nothing here sucks except your lifestyle. Your parents would be disappointed."

"But I won't even notice because they are dead, man." Dante laughed uncontrollably, joined in by his aide Shawn. "Please, come take me on that ride, Aiden."

Taking a deep breath, Aiden huffed in exhaustion. "Let's go." He said, checking his pocket for a car key. Shawn stayed back as his eyes met with the red-haired lady. Appears they have unfinished business.

"Wait a minute," Dante told Aiden as they walked towards the elevator. His eyes landed on one of the ladies he had been trying to talk to all night, but she was being followed around by a guy who looks like her boyfriend. This time she was alone. Clearing his throat, he tapped her shoulder. "Need a ride?"

The brown-eyed, innocent-looking face smiled shyly at him. "I would appreciate it."

"Let's go then." He gestured towards the elevator.

Aiden groaned; it was going to be a long morning after all. He mumbled profanities under his breath, wishing he had remembered to bring his AirPods along. Dante and the girl giggled to each other within five minutes of the ride, and the next thing he heard was his friend moaning and the girl's sucking sound. His torture came to an end when Dante's phone rang.

Mumbling a string of curses at the sound of the phone distracting him from the moment. He had ignored the first two call entries, but the phone kept ringing. Dante stared at his phone. The caller ID read Grandpa.

"Shit!" He cursed out loudly, yanking

I apologize for the interruption. Here's the continuation of the corrected text from where we left off:

*****************

O'NEIL PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY, NEW YORK.

Ethan shook his head pitifully as the other line kept ringing with no response. He didn't stop calling because he knew for sure that his grandson was wide awake. Not after pulling off such a public mess. The call eventually went through on the third trial.

"Took you long enough," he growled into the phone.

Dante made a loud yawning sound on the other end. "Top of the morning to you too, Grandpa, and it's barely morning yet around here, and I am sure you know it's a three-hour time difference. But it's obvious you don't care. To what do I owe this concerned call?" He muttered in his usual taunting tone.

Ethan sucked his teeth, "Dante, you and I know, calling you is one of the things that stress me the most. Give me one reason why words about you didn't just hold themselves back in LA and had to make their way to New York and ruin my mood?"

There was a loud movement in the background; it was obvious Dante had no idea he was trending yet again. "Grandpa! I already told you to unsubscribe from that crazy tabloid. Aren't you too old for that? I never counted you as one to like gossip so much."

Ethan couldn't believe his ears, for a moment he hoped Dante would deny being the one. Instead, he did the exact opposite with no shame. Ethan had heard that posting such controversial news earns such bloggers a lot of money. It would have been fun to watch if his grandson wasn't their most talked-about person.

"Shouldn't you be ashamed, Dante? When do you intend to curb this ridiculous lifestyle of yours? This isn't a good name for the family and business."

Dante groaned, sounding frustrated; he refers to his grandfather as a nagging old man. They never get to talk for a minute without him complaining. "Don't bring that up, grandpa. This is why I left New York to enable me to enjoy my life to the fullest."

"There is nothing enjoyable about that life of yours, young man. Instead, you are like a parading monkey. Have you lost your mind? Where exactly did I go wrong in training you? I wish I could see you right now and hit you hard with different golf balls; probably you will come back to your senses." Ethan said in one breath, trying to hold down his pants.

The young man laughed, "I doubt if killing me is on your agenda, grandpops. How about we just talk a little later. I am in the middle of something."

Before Ethan could say anything, Dante had hung up. When he tried to call back, his line wasn't reachable. Ethan sighed heavily as he held up the tablet again, watching the video of his grandson being hit and drenched in alcohol. How he gets to watch such annoying videos without losing his mind surprises Ethan himself.

Dante had always been a naughty kid since he was young when Ethan's son Kingston, who was Dante's father and his wife, died in a car accident when their son was barely eight. It had been a tough journey for Ethan, but he had stood his ground, ensuring to be there for his grandson as much as he could while also running the family business.

The moment Dante got to his senior year in high school, he became reckless, and his name seemed to always turn up as an erring student every week. Ethan was almost losing his sanity over the boy; the only relief was his outstanding performance in his studies. However, getting in trouble with the opposite gender was Dante's most cherished goal. When Dante insisted on studying at the University of California, in Los Angeles, far away from home, Ethan didn't object.

Which was unlike Ethan, as the fear of losing Dante like his parents had made him keep the boy next to his side all through the years. However, Ethan knows letting Dante stay back in New York will bring nothing but trouble to both of their futures. Now, it's been over six years since his grandson relocated to LA.

However, Dante ensures to put him in a worried mood due to the heart-clenching news written about him every now and then. The thought of his boy getting labelled as a bad egg and how much it would ruin the company's name, which he had toiled hard for over the years, made his heart feel heavy. A sharp pain struck his chest as he inhaled; Ethan moaned, holding his chest tightly.

Grabbing the bottle of water next to him hurriedly, he drank to his fill. Gasping for breath, Ethan held onto the table edge to ease himself. The door opened, letting in Ariel, his secretary and, safe to say, right-hand man. She was just returning from a meeting with the head of departments on his behalf.

Ariel rushed towards the old man at the state of his colored face. "Are you okay, sir? Do I need to call the doctor?"

Ethan waved a dismissive hand, "I'm fine, Ariel. I was just trying to calm myself from all the anger boiling inside of me."

"Oh," she muttered, rolling her eyes, "did you call Dante concerning the video?" Ariel inquired, knowing that was the only thing that could bring the old man's blood pressure to a rise.

Ethan sniffed, leaning further into the chair, "I will never seem to understand where I went wrong exactly in raising that kid. He makes it look like all of the years of moulding him to be well-behaved were a waste of time."

"He is a twenty-six-year-old man, who knows what he is doing clearly. Don't heap the blame on yourself; he is well aware of his behavior and has chosen to be a nuisance. That isn't your fault."

A chuckle escaped Ethan's lips; Ariel was always the blunt one. She never tries to hide her irritation towards something. He decided to change the topic.

"How did the meeting go?" He asked, making an attempt to stand up, but he felt a hard tug instead.

Ariel was about to respond to him when Ethan collapsed against the chair, falling off onto the hard floor. "Ethan!" She screamed, running towards him.

Chapter 2

ETHAN'S HOME, NEW YORK.

Ethan shifted to the side, feeling warmth surrounding him. When he inhaled the air, he could tell where he was. Ethan sat up gently, his eyes scanning the semi dark room. Reaching out to the bed lamp, he switched on the light. He was surprised to see the wall clock reading seven thirty in the evening.

He must have slept for a long time considering the time he was at the office this morning. Taking a deep breath, he got down from the bed and almost sprang back into it when he saw Ariel curled up on the couch. She looks exhausted.

Ethan's face palmed himself. It was his fault that the poor girl had to lay cramped up on the couch after a long day at work.

He had tried to hide his weak heart from her. But having to hear about Dante's horrifying lifestyle triggers his health. Ethan sat back on the bed, his eyes scanning Ariel.

He blessed the day his late friend Finn Coleman had pleaded with him on his deathbed five years ago when Ariel was just twenty-five. To take her under his wing and be her sole pillar. Because of how fond of Ariel, Ethan was and having known her since she could barely walk. Ethan took a chance on her and made Ariel his secretary. Since his former secretary had chosen to retire early. He wasn't sure of how well she would perform, but not only did she surpass his expectations. She was the kind of child and grandchild Ethan prayed for.

It's not like he would love Dante any less, but it's an obvious fact that any reasonable person would want Ariel to be part of their family. She handles the entire business so well whenever he has to travel out of the state to handle other deals or when he is a bit indisposed. Ariel would hold it all down with no pressure.

She is respectful, dutiful and beautiful to behold. Every young man in the company can't seem to take their eyes off her. He couldn't blame them, she looks too good to be true. What hurts him the most and as much as Ariel insists that she is fine by it, is her nonsocial lifestyle. On one hand is the overtly extroverted grandson of his. Another hand was Ariel who seemed to be extremely introverted. Ethan had never seen her get excited about hanging out with friends or getting off work. It's almost like a taboo In her dictionary.

Ethan worries that it might be his fault as a result of the number of workloads she carries. The last time he had mentioned reducing her workload, Ariel had accused him of harboring the intention to get rid of her. He jolted when Ariel sat up from the couch abruptly. Rubbing at her eyes with the back of her palm. "You are awake." She mumbled. "Should I get you water?"

Ethan didn't realize he was thirsty until she asked. "yes." He whispered. Ariel stood up hurriedly, walked towards the table where she had placed a water jar and glass. Pouring him a full glass, he took it in one go. "Thank you so much, I didn't realise how thirsty I was."

"Sorry, I should have put it by the bed stand. What would you like to eat? I sent the maids to rest up early, since I wasn't certain when you would wake up. I will gladly be at your service."

"How long was I out for?" He asked, rubbing at the back of his neck.

"Long enough to make me worried. I had to get help from the men around to get you to the hospital. Why didn't you tell me about the exhaustion diagnosis, Ethan? This is why I try to keep you away from the office duties. This is the time you need more rest. And have you been sleeping at all? Are you an insomniac?"

Ethan looked tired, "what is it with so many questions? I only had a long nap, that's all. Also I am just seventy-five, Ariel. That doesn't sound old enough to me, I know of others who work till they are eighty."

"Obviously they look really healthy." She voiced sarcasm.

"Don't act like that." Ethan sniffed

"I get your point, Ethan. But at least try to take a two day break each week, get to spend more time with your golfing pals and also take Agnes on that long overdue date." She teased.

Ethan snorted playfully, "when will you get over trying to matchmake Agnes and I?"

"It's obvious you both care for each other and want more beyond just being casual friends . It's alright if you test the waters."

"Easy for you to say. You are the one who needs to go out there and have as much fun as you desire. That is what people in your age range do. Why won't you explore like every youth of your age. I have never seen someone almost non-existent like yourself."

Ariel giggled, "why do you sound guilty?"

"Of course I feel guilty. It hurts me to see you live this way, Ariel. I wish you would go on dates and tell me all about it when you return. Instead you live like an old woman, boring the hell out of me." He pouted.

"You should call Nina instead, she would have tons of stories to tell you."

Ethan sighed in resignation, Nina is Ariel's only friend and roommate. And as much as he loves Nina, he can't withstand her energy; she is the female version of Dante. When an idea struck him, he felt hopeful again. With a wide grin, he looked up at her.

"How about I set you up on a date with Agnes' son? Ivan seems to have a keen eye for you."

Ariel stared at her god grandfather like he had grown two heads. As much as she enjoys conversing with him, his inability to keep mute over her social life makes it hard to stay too long by his side.

"Don't make me lose my sanity. I really would run away if you set me up with any of your friends' sons."

"Why does this discussion always have to end like this?"

"Because, you worry too much about yourself. And from the doctor's instruction, I was told to ensure you refrain from discussing unnecessary topics."

"Since when did talking about one's future become an unnecessary topic. I want to see my grandchildren."

With a mischievous grin, Ariel winked at him.

"I would adopt one for you."

"Really?" The old man mused.

"Really. And that is enough talk for the night. I will make you a light dinner, rest your back and I will be right back." Ariel said, walking towards the door.

"How about we open a dating site!" He yelled behind her.

"I really would run away for good!" Ariel retorted. "And I mean it!" She added for effect.

*****************

ARIEL'S APARTMENT, NEW YORK.

Ariel moaned in displeasure as she entered the dark room and the light came on all of a sudden. Shielding her eyes with her hand, she sucked her teeth. "What's all this, Nina?"

"Just making sure it's not an intruder." Nina said, grinning widely.

Rolling her eyes, Ariel threw herself into the beanbag next to her. Yawning loudly, her entire body ached badly. She had been on her toes all morning, attending to the matters concerning the office and also looking after Ethan. She couldn't leave him till he was fast asleep, his caretaker had an emergency which prevented her from being around to stay by his side. And the assistant actually needs some assistance. Which was why Ariel had no choice but to wait till she came around before leaving.

"How long was your day? I have been calling your line for ages." Nina mumbled from the kitchen.

"Very long. Sorry about the call, I didn't know my phone was on silent. I only noticed it now that I got home, also Ethan had a mild attack."

She gasped loudly, "what? Why didn't you call me?"

"Like I said, it was mild. And before you start thinking otherwise, it's not a heart attack. His body seems to be getting old and can't handle too much pressure any more."

"Does that mean he has to keep away from work?"

"Yes, it's time he retires. I must admit, I have never met someone so invested and dedicated to work like Ethan. If his body seeks for some rest, I guess it's time for it then."

"Anyways, before you also end up passing out from exhaustion. You should take this relaxing tea. I made dinner." Nina said, handing a cup of warm tea to Ariel.

Ariel cooed, throwing her a kiss. "You are a darling, Nina. Thank you so much."

"Yeah." She responded absentmindedly, taking a seat opposite her.

"Is there something you want to tell me?" Ariel asked, raising a brow. Knowing her friend very well, she could tell something was bothering her.

Nina inhaled, "I don't know how to put this to you, Ariel. And I don't want you to feel bad about it, but I guess it's time we both start getting serious with our lives."

"What do you mean by getting serious? We both have a good job and everything seems fine."

"Except our relationships." She added with a blank face.

Ariel chuckled, "where is all of this coming from, Nina? I thought you enjoy having flings and taking your time?"

"Yes, probably a few months back. But my perception about things like that has changed since I met Leo." Nina explained.

Sitting up, "so? You practically just met Leo a month ago."

"Which makes it amazing, it's been only four weeks but I feel like he is the one for me. And I will take a leap with him and I expect you to do the same by giving someone a chance in your life, Ariel."

"Hold your breath. How did this switch from you to me all of a sudden?"

"I will be moving in with Leo. This would enable the both of us to get to know each other better. This might be it for me, Ariel. I might be Mrs. In the next three months."

Ariel stared in disbelief, she doubted if Nina was in her right frame of mind. Nina has never been so eager to be so close to any guy before. They have known each other since middle school, and this was the first time her friend would mention a man and Ariel knows nothing about him.

"What is it with this Leo guy that has you so worked up? And why haven't I met him yet?"

"I have shown you his picture several times, you never seem to pay attention. And you know what?" She looks excited, moving closer to Ariel. "He has a good looking friend, who would be a really good match for you."

"I'm not interested."

"I promise you, Ariel. This guy would catch your interest." She insisted

Brushing her aside, Ariel stood up walking to the kitchen to drop her cup. Nina knows just how much she hates talking about men. Her experience with her first love when she was sixteen had scarred her for life. She had foolishly fallen for one of the most popular boys in school then. Ariel wasn't exactly a nerd, but she wasn't really popular. Which was why she was surprised when Kayden suddenly took an interest in her and didn't stop at his approach until she agreed to be his girlfriend.

Fortunately and unfortunately for her, Ariel found out Kayden had made a bet with his team to deflower at least five different girls in their class, which she happens to be one of them. Calls it a reward to himself for being an extremely good looking guy. There was a popular tag given to any male senior that had the highest list of girlfriends and also got them to sleep with him. They were always regarded as the bad boys. The boys in her set then fought to get to that position.

Ariel swore to herself to never let herself get swayed by any man, and it's been the only reason she still remains a virgin even though she is thirty years of age.

Turning on the faucet, Ariel washed her hand drying it on a napkin. "I have told you several times, Nina. I'm not interested in being In a relationship and I mean it."

"Until when do you intend to keep this celibate and loveless life of yours? Don't you think it's time you tone down the excess work you do and find a man? You need someone to care for you and pour their love into you." Nina raised her voice. "Whatever happened to you was fourteen years ago! Why are you acting like a child? Kayden himself is married with two kids now. Do you intend to continue this way?"

"It's none of your business how my life turns out. It's obvious you have fallen in love, good for you. Let me know when you intend to leave. Good night!" Ariel bellowed, storming off to her room.

"Ariel! You haven't even had dinner." Nina called out to her. No response came, blaming herself for saying too much. Leaning into the couch, she curled up into herself. Reconsidering her decision.

Chapter 3 Health issues

O'NEIL PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY, NEW YORK.

Ethan furrowed his brows as he turned the page of the document handed to him. "What is this about, Doctor Ben?" He asked the young man sitting in front of him.

Doctor Ben cleared his throat, "After you left the hospital yesterday, I had to check your report again, and I found out that your heart is getting weaker. If you don't take enough rest as desired, you might fall into cardiac arrest. As your personal doctor, it's my duty to warn you about such a disastrous condition."

"Is there any medication that can be taken to keep this away?" Ethan questioned. He hates being sick. It makes him feel like a weak person; he has always been known to counter any form of ailment coming his way.

"I know your philosophy, sir. But if we would preserve your life, you need time away from all the pressures of work and not burden yourself. This is the time you need actual rest, and that can include going on a vacation while taking your meds."

"What doctor recommends vacation?"

"A doctor who knows what's best for his patient," Ben affirmed.

"Listen, Ben. I know you are very good at what you do. But, I don't think it's time for me to take a break yet. Your father understood this when he was alive. I need you to work with me on this."

"Why are you so hell-bent on putting your life on the line? What are you so worried about?"

Ethan inhaled, he never thought his health would be in the way of his plans. It had seemed like the perfect way out when the idea came to him. His intention was to work until he clocked eighty; by then, Dante would be in his early thirties. And he would be able to take over the company then.

Ben leaned back into the chair, observing the older man as the wheels turned in his head. "I believe there is more to this. If you don't see it as a form of disrespect, I would like it if you share what the problem is with me. Probably, we can work it out."

"The thing is, my heir doesn't seem to be interested in taking over the company. What makes the situation worse is, he lives a reckless lifestyle. I am worried he might not want to leave all of it behind and come home. So, if I can hold on for another five years. He would be more matured then, willing to make a better life for himself, and might have settled down with a woman of his choice." Ethan said, feeling relieved to finally let it out.

Covering his mouth, Ben tried to hold back his laughter. "Please tell me you are just pulling my legs?"

Ethan looked offended, "do I look like a joke to you?"

"I understand your intention, but it's not enough to stake your health. If you don't let him take control now, he would have regrets later and blame himself for not being here when you needed him the most." Ben sighed, standing up. "I will send your report to your email; please don't hesitate to live for yourself. I will be in touch."

The silence was deafening. Ethan felt stupid after recounting the conversation. Dante's father was only twenty-four when he started handling the company. He threw his head to the back, inhaling deeply; guilt weighed on him. Kingston had despised him before his death, saying Ethan had saddled him with too many responsibilities at such a young age.

The both of them never really got along, Kingston was only dedicated to the company because of the promise he made to his dying mother. He had always wanted to be a tourist and explore different countries. Ethan couldn't deal with the thought of his only son wandering around the world, while there is a major business for him to handle at home.

Ethan had threatened to cut him off and deprive him of his inheritance if he refused to do as told. As the years passed, Kingston seemed to adjust to everything, especially when he married one of the pharmacists in the company, Cathy. They worked hard until their unfortunate death. But Ethan never got a chance to tell Kingston how sorry he was for killing his dream.

The past experience had prompted him to let Dante be and not force the company on him. He feels with time, Dante would see reasons to return home and take his place. However, it would be unfair to have his entire hard work thrown to the wind or have people who are undeserving enjoy its proceeds. O'Niel Pharmaceuticals was a dream Ethan and his late wife, Briana had built with the hope of passing it on to their children. However, things didn't really play out as they wished. Briana couldn't birth any more children after Kingston. They had to succumb to faith, hoping he would continue the legacy.

Staring hard at his phone screen, Ethan cleared his throat severally, wishing he didn't have to resort to the strategy he was about to use. The line rang for a while before the call came on.

"How is my favorite grandpops doing?" Dante's silly voice bellowed from the receiver. He sounded drunk.

Ethan shook his head in disappointment, "isn't it too soon to be drunk at this time?"

He snickered, "come on, grandpa. I have only had a few glasses, my eyes are as clear as day. I'm nothing near drunk."

"The actual phase of being drunk is denying you are drunk."

"You have got jokes."

"When are you coming home, Dante?"

"To do what exactly, grandpa?"

"To take over the company, of course. I'm getting old, and it's not like I have any other person to take care of the company."

"You look really fit. I am sure you can hold on to it for some time."

Ethan remained quiet, trying to suppress his anger. He was never an easy person to deal with, but having Dante as a grandson made him soften a little. "Stop playing around, young man. I am not so fit anymore, and the doctor has advised I take some rest."

"But, grandpa. I am not ready yet."

"Until when will you be? Is it when I die? You might as well get called soon that I have passed on."

Dante chuckled, "you have been joking a whole lot since the beginning of this call. Can you stop with them? They aren't really funny."

"This is no joke, Dante."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm dying!" Ethan announced in the coolest voice he could muster.

***********************

DANTE'S HOUSE, LOS ANGELES.

Spitting out the entire content in his mouth, Dante wiped at his lips hurriedly. "What are you talking about, grandpa? Can you stop pulling my legs, please?" He yelled into the phone.

Ethan inhaled gently, "Dante, I wish I can hold on a bit longer. But it's quite unfortunate that I can't. I need you to come back home. If you don't believe me, you can call Doctor Ben to affirm it."

"Grandpa?" Dante called out In a shaky voice, but the old man had hung up on him.

"What's going on?" Shawn inquired.

Gripping his head, Dante pushed the laptop and bottle of vodka in front of him away. His grandfather would never pull such a stunt with him. The both of them might argue a lot, but Ethan O'Niel has never been the type to seek attention.

"Why are you looking dazed, man? What did you hear?" His friend asked again.

"Give me a minute." He replied, tapping on his phone. Dante searched for the family doctor's line, Doctor Ben.

He picked on the first ring, "Dante! How are you doing? I have been expecting your call."

"I'm fine, Doc. Can you tell me exactly what is going on with my grandfather? Is he really dying?"

"Calm down, Dante. He would soon if care is not taken. Listen, your grandfather has been working all his life; he needs to rest. And since you are the only one he has, you need to be there for him. If you truly love him, I don't think standing by him now is too much to ask. I have sent his medical report to both of your mails. I hope you would have a change of thought. It's nice talking to you after such a long while, Dante. I have to go now; there is a patient waiting in line." Ben said, hanging up.

Dante bit hard on his lip, pulling at his hair. "My grandfather's health is derailing." He finally answered Shawn's question.

"Oh, sorry about that man." Shawn said. "What do you intend to do now?"

He exhaled, "I don't know. It's not like I plan to leave LA soon. I thought I could live it out till I feel ready enough to get burdened with that large amount of work. Now it seems like I don't even have much choice."

"You are one lucky bastard, Dante. If I were you, I wouldn't think twice before returning home." Shawn mused, pouring himself a glass of vodka. "Cheers?"

Dante scoffed, "were you even listening at all?"

The door opened, letting in Aiden. He looked worn out. "Why are you both looking like that?" He asked, throwing himself into the couch.

"Our billionaire friend here is set to take over his grandfather's business." Shawn announced, sounding excited.

"Hmm, nice." Aiden responded, absentmindedly.

Licking his lips, Dante looked towards his more sensible friend, Aiden. He could tell something was wrong with him. But, Aiden is the type of person who doesn't like to spill his tea to just anyone.

"You okay?" He inquired.

Aiden nodded, thinning his lips. "Yes, sorry for crashing in on you. Just thought I could take some solace here."

Dante waved a hand, "you know you are always welcome." They all stayed quiet, each person lost in their thoughts.

Shawn hiccuped loudly, "I don't seem to understand the gloomy state of you both. I really can't stand your moods; I will head out real quick, see you both later."

"Does he ever get tired? Shawn seems to have nothing to worry about." Aiden mused under his breath after Shawn left.

"You do know he doesn't let things bother him for too long." Sitting up, Dante clasped his hands together, staring hard at Aiden. "Do you intend to stay quiet on what's wrong with you? And I won't accept your usual story of being okay. I need the truth."

Aiden scratched the back of his neck, letting out a nervous chuckle. "I lost my job."

"What? How did that happen?"

"The company has been experiencing some issues lately; turns out the chairman got involved in some kind of fraud, and the government has put a lock on it." Aiden sniffed, "do you know what makes it worse, Dante? I took out a loan for my mum's chemotherapy, even though her days were numbered. I just couldn't help seeing her in pain, and I calmed myself with the thought that I would pay back with time. My student loan too is still hanging. Now, I don't even have any means of paying back. I might as well end my sad life."

Dante's eyes glazed. Aiden was one of the few good friends he had met in college. He is extremely brilliant; they weren't in the same department as he was studying accounting. However, he had saved Dante from being humiliated at a coffee shop because he had lost his wallet unknowingly to him. They had stayed glued to each other ever since. Despite their opposing lives, they still understand each other and get along well.

"Why didn't you tell me about the loans? I asked you Aiden if you needed my help before your mum died. You told me you got it. I thought we were brothers?"

Aiden bowed his head. He feels ashamed having to get handouts from his friend every time. That had prompted him to keep his present worries hidden from him. "I'm sorry, Dante. I just wanted to be a man of my own and not leech off you. I still don't know how to pay you back for everything you did for me in college. I would have dropped out if you weren't there for me. You have done enough."

Dante felt hurt at Aiden's words, even though he does act like an asshole most times. He cares a whole lot about Aiden. And it worries him that his friend keeps so much away from him. Thinking on what to do, Dante chewed on his lips. If not for anything, he has to return to New York for the sake of his grandfather and Aiden. That way he can secure a good spot for Aiden in the company, considering how competent and efficient Aiden is. Dante has no doubt the company finances would run smoothly under his supervision.

He grinned, "Nah, I am just getting started. I was thinking hard over it before now, but I have finally reached a conclusion. I am going back to New York, and you, my friend, are coming with me. But first, we need to sort out your bills."

Aiden's eyes popped out of their sockets. "Why do I need to come to New York with you?"

"To get a job and a better life, man. My grandfather has asked me to come back home and take over the company," Dante explained.

"Do you mean what you just said now?" He asked again.

Laughing, Dante stood up. "Yes, my friend. Let's rule New York together!"

Teary-eyed, Aiden felt short of words. He pulled Dante into a tight embrace, feeling extremely grateful. "I promise to pay you back."

Dante chuckled, "do that by remaining my best friend till the end." He grinned, hugging him back. Taking a deep breath, he made a mental note to make the best of his return home.