Princessa you've been uncovered

Asiri

"Come back here, young lady," My mother yelled as I exited the house. My steps were confident and quick. I didn't look back until I was out on the streets__I couldn't deal with them now, it will only heed the same result, I'll always be the unfilial child in their eyes.

The evening air was crisp, and the sky above was a deep shade of twilight, hinting at the approaching night. My footsteps echoed, as I walked along the deserted street, the only sound breaking the silence, as that all-so-familiar feeling of desolation set in.

After walking a good distance from the house, I slowed down and took out my phone. I dialed a number and told the person on the other line, that I was ready and quickly hung up, deleting the number.

Soon, a sleek black Maybach with tinted widows smoothly pulled up in front of me. The car's engine purred softly, a contrast to the silent surroundings. I swept my eyes over the car, and without hesitation, I swiftly slipped inside, and sank into the soft leather seat, acknowledging the driver, as the vehicle accelerated away from the quiet street.

The city blurred past as the Maybach weaved through the road. I stared out, watching as people filled the bus stops, waiting for the bus, tired from a long day, some had frowns, and few had smiles, but I could see the sadness in their eyes, some were dressed up, to enjoy the nightlife, different people with different problems, going about their activities.

I drew a long breath and snapped out of my reverie, looking away as the streets became almost empty, we were heading to a quiet part of town.

Eventually, we arrived at a small, cozy-looking cafe tucked away in a secluded corner of the city. I slowly stepped out of the car, scanning the area discerningly. The cafe's warm light spilled onto the sidewalk, casting long shadows dancing in the gentle breeze. Without a word, the driver drove off, leaving me standing alone.

Pushing the door open, I walked into the cafe. The interior was dimly lit, with soft, ambient lighting casting a warm glow over the few tables scattered around. The air was thick with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods, but the place was deserted, apart from the man who sat alone at a small table, his back straight, dressed in a sharp black suit and a bow tie. He appeared to be in his early fifties, his silver hair neatly combed back, and a steaming cup of tea rested in front of him.

As I entered, the man looked up, his expression transforming into a welcoming smile. He rose from his seat with the grace of someone who had lived a life of discipline and precision. Approaching me, he bowed slightly, his voice respectful as he began, "Hello m...."

Before he could finish, I lifted my hand, silencing him with my gesture. There was no need for those formalities. His smile didn't falter, but he nodded in understanding and stepped aside, allowing me to move past him. I strode toward the table he had sat at, my steps measured. I sat down, and he returned to his seat across from me.

"Excuse me?" The man called out, his voice carrying across the quiet cafe. I furrowed my brows, scanning the area for signs of the person he was calling for.

A woman appeared from the back, looking somewhat in her mid-forties, with a kind but tired face, though she wore simple clothing, her back was straight and steps measured, clearly from years of experience. She approached the table, carefully placing a cup of milk latte in front of me, avoiding eye contact, before retreating without a word. I narrowed my eyes watching the woman's retreating figure, I was used to people avoiding eye contact with me, for different reasons, but I couldn't quite figure out if she could be trusted.

"She won't breathe a word" He said, pulling me out of my thoughts, his voice calm, but I could sense the seriousness in his words.

I nodded, casting one last glance in her direction, before my gaze shifted to my surroundings, taking in the intimate setting, the walls were adorned with bookshelves, vintage tables scattered around, and a fireplace in the corner. It was a nice place with a cozy vibe. "A new place" I remarked, curious, I really liked the place.

"Yes" The man replied with a sigh. "You know we can't meet in the same place twice. It's too risky."

I sighed, nodding in agreement, knowing fully well the risks.

I turned my attention back to him, my expression turning serious. "Alfred, what is it this time?" I asked,getting straight to the point, my tone carrying a hint of impatience. I was tired of the small pleasantries and wanted him to get straight to the point.

Alfred leaned in slightly, his demeanor shifting as he adopted a more serious expression. "You have to be careful" He began, his voice low but firm. "A few of them were spotted in this city two days ago by our men."

I sipped my milk latte, the cold liquid flowing down my throat, as I took in what he just said, I had expected this, but not the timing. "Which of them?" I asked, trying to calculate my next move.

"Arlo and his men" Alfred answered, his brows furrowing slightly. "He came on the pretext of business, but I don't think the others know his real motive for being here."

I tapped my fingers rhythmically on the table, staring into the distance as my mind processed the information. "He can't just be here on the pretext of business," I thought aloud. "He must have some business to handle, but I'm also a strong motive. I guess he wants to kill two birds with one stone." My lips curled up in an indiscernible smile.

I looked up at Albert and saw his face was creased with concern. "Are you sure about that? You know how much of a thorn you are by their sides." He said, and I could hear the genuine concern in his tone, causing me to feel warm, but I kept my expression blank, not betraying any emotions.

"I didn't say he didn't come for me. Of course, he did, but he also came for something else. We know Arlo has always been too greedy" I said to Alfred, my lips curving up into a cold smile.

Alfred's confusion was evident. "Yes, he's always been greedy, but how does this have anything to do with this?" He asked with a frown, looking at me for an explanation.

I just smiled and leaned back in my chair, my eyes gleaming with a knowing look. "Don't worry. Arlo isn't going to be a problem. He'll soon go back. I'll handle it." I assured him, not revealing much.

With that, I stood up swiftly and started walking away in long strides. I suddenly remembered something and paused in my steps, turning to Albert. "Tell him not to send any more men to follow me unless he wants to keep having them injured and beaten up." I hated being followed and monitored.

Alfred sighed, I could see the concern in his eyes. "It's for your safety" He began, but I turned and walked out the door, not allowing him to finish his words. I could feel his burning gaze on me as I walked out, but ignored it.

Outside, I slipped my headset on, the familiar comfort of music filling my ears as I strolled down the sidewalk, focused on sending a message on my phone, momentarily distracted from my surroundings.

I suddenly bumped into something hard, losing my balance. I braced myself for the fall, but it didn't come. Instead of hitting the ground, I felt strong arms wrap around me, steadying me.

My eyes shot open only to find myself face-to-face with a man who looked oddly familiar. His dark, intense eyes met mine, and then it clicked. It was the same man I had noticed in the restaurant a few nights ago...

The restaurant was dimly lit, a low hum of voices blending with soft music. I sat round a table with my mum's family, absently poking at my food, when I felt a tingling sensation on the back of my neck. I glanced over my shoulder and saw a man standing by the stairs leading to the VIP rooms. Because of the lighting, I could only make out his dark hair and sharp jawline, but I felt the intensity of his piercing gaze locked onto me. A shiver ran down my spine, adrenaline coursing through my veins as I met his gaze with equal intensity, something about him felt dangerous, yet I couldn't look away.

"Asiri." My mum called, pulling my attention away. When I turned back, he was already gone.

There was something about his presence that was both imposing and intriguing.

Now, here he was, gazing down at me with his unfathomable grey eyes, his grip on my waist firm, but not at all uncomfortable. I froze for a moment, realizing his hands were still around me. I tried to wriggle out of his grip, but before I could react, he roughly pulled me towards his Maybach. My heart raced as I struggled to break free but his grip remained firm, ignoring my struggles.

I looked up at him trying to get anything, from his expression, but it was unreadable. He pushed me into the car with a forceful shove, causing me to tumble into the back seat. I scrambled up, my breath coming in quick, shallow bursts as I glared at the strange man who had followed me in and closed the door behind him.

"Drive" He commanded his driver sharply, in his deep baritone voice, leaving no room for argument.

The driver, quickly started the engine, shooting me a glance. My heart pounded in my chest as the car began to move, but I made sure I revealed no emotions, assuming a calm front. I glanced out the window, watching the buildings blur by as they sped and there was only one question on my mind.

Am I being Kidnapped?

VINCENZO

I stared at the woman sitting across from me, taking in her features with curiosity and disbelief at her beauty. Her long lashes framed her dark blue eyes which held a magnetic pull I couldn't describe.

Despite the situation, her eyes were as calm as a still lake, which further intrigued me. Her jet-black hair, shiny and smooth, cascaded down her back, thoughts of running my hand through it, appeared in my mind, but I quickly pushed those thoughts aside. My eyes dropped to her plump lips, the most beautiful shade of pink, and stood out against her fair, porcelain skin.

She wore plain black baggy Jeans and a white t-shirt. Her body was mostly covered, but I knew she had curves-I remembered how easily my arms wrapped around her. The feel of her lingered, and for a moment, dirty images filled my mind. I forced them away, drawing a sharp breath as I focused back on her.

She exuded an elegance that was almost otherwordly, a presence that was impossible to ignore. Even as she sat there in silence, her hands folded in her lap, she radiated both grace and a cold, distant aura.

I found myself perplexed by her demeanor. I had just hypothetically kidnapped her, yet she wasn't acting scared or distressed. I had expected her to plead, or cry out for help, but she did none. Instead, she sat quietly, her gaze steady and unflinching.

"Aren't you going to scream, plead, or do something?' I finally voiced out my confusion.

She met my gaze with a cold, measured stare. "And why should I?" She replied to me, her tone icy yet composed.

I stared at her, trying to gauge an emotion from her, but got nothing which made me frustrated as well as enthralled. "Because I just kidnapped you, of course," I drawled, stating the obvious.

She let out a soft snort, surprising me with her nonchalance. "Well, that's what you think. I think you're just a nutcase who needs someone to play with" She said cocking her brow up at me.

I blinked, momentarily at a loss for words. No one had ever spoken to me like this, especially not in this type of situation. "You're trying to make me scared, aren't you?" I asked, genuinely curious. I couldn't figure out what was going on in her mind.

She raised an eyebrow. "No....Are you?"

I swallowed hard, retreating into my seat as I stared at her, trying to figure out what game she was playing. After a moment, she broke the silence. "So, what do you want?" Her voice was soft, but I could see the curiosity in her eyes.

I stared at her intensely, saying nothing. The truth was that I didn't have an answer to her question. I saw her that night, absent-mindedly eating her meal, ignoring those around her, I was intrigued, but went my way taking her off my mind, and it worked pretty well. The last thing i needed was a distraction. But, seeing her suddenly today, I acted on impulse, which was fucking stupid, I don't even know what was going through my mind.

She finally looked up, her gaze meeting mine. We locked gazes for a brief moment, her expression cool and unreadable, while I stared at her in amusement, as the silence stretched on. She really wasn't bothered by the situation.

"What's your name?" I chuckled slightly, breaking the odd silence.

She squinted her deep blue eyes which were filled with curiosity at me. "You kidnapped a woman whose name you don't even know? Isn't that risky?" She replied with a faint smile.

I couldn't help the smirk that crept onto my face. I was enjoying this back-and-forth. "And you're sitting comfortably, threatening the person who kidnapped you in his car. Isn't that risky?" I shot back.

She narrowed her eyes at me, and I noticed her smile widening slightly. "I guess we're both taking risks, then."

"I guess so," I conceded, my smirk turning into a genuine smile. "So, may I know your name now?"

"Asiri," she answered, her voice steady as she continued to meet my gaze.

I rubbed my chin, thoughtfully, her name was rare but beautiful. "What a beautiful name. Does it have a meaning?" I asked genuinely curious.

I studied her expression and noticed she visibly tensed, a flicker of emotion crossed her face so fast, I couldn't decipher it. Seeing her pause, I felt I had touched a sore spot and was about to tell her she didn't have to answer if she didn't want to, but she spoke up, her voice soft and reflective.

"It means smile," she said. Her tone was a little heavy and I could see a fleeting sadness in her eyes, which made me feel something which was fucking unfamiliar.

I just nodded, acknowledging her answer with a warm smile. "Beautiful."

She raised an eyebrow again, her expression shifting back to one of cool detachment. "Won't you tell me yours?"

I furrowed my brows, at her sudden change in expression, but remained silent. "Vincenzo" I replied, staring at her with a deep gaze, monitoring her reaction.

She tilted her head, her brows furrowed. She looked like she was trying to place where she had heard the name before. "Vincenzo Romano," I said, staring at her meaningfully.

Recognition dawned in her eyes. I'm not surprised; my name is well-known across the world. I have a reputation for being ruthless and cold like ice. I wonder if she fears me now after finding out my identity, everyone did.

"The famous Vincenzo Romano. What brings you to Reston?" she asked, her tone casual.

She didn't react like most women upon learning my identity. There was no awe, no fawning admiration, and most importantly no fear, just a look of realization. This further intrigued me. "Business" I replied keeping my tone flat, not wanting to elaborate much.

She nodded, accepting my answer without further probing. "So, why did the famous Vincenzo Romano kidnap me?" She asked, raising an eyebrow in challenge.

"For a treat" I responded, winking mischievously.

She eyed me skeptically. "What treat?"

"You'll find out" I grinned, enjoying the game we were playing.

Just then, James, My assistant, interrupted. "Uhmm, sir, we're here," He said, avoiding making eye contact with me. I'm sure he had heard snippets of our conversations.

I stepped out of the car, and before I could open the door for her, she had already stepped out, leaving me standing speechless. She raised her brow at me, but I just sighed, gesturing for her to move, and we both made our way into the restaurant, James falling a few steps behind.

We were quickly escorted to a private VIP room, where James decided it was best to wait outside. How sensible of him, he deserves a raise. I shot him an approving glance before walking into the room.

The restaurant, Dolph, was an exclusive, members-only establishment, with its main branch located in DC. Membership was difficult to obtain, but I, as a member of the DC branch, had access to all their locations.

Once inside the private room, we took our seats. "What would you like to eat?" I asked, breaking the silence.

"I'll just have some spicy tomato carbonara," she replied without hesitation, without even glancing at the menu.

I raised a questioning brow at her, most ladies in her position would have tried to match his order or play it safe with something less bold. But not her, she seemed familiar with the dishes served here, I was curious but remained silent not wanting to probe. "Juice?" I offered, recalling I had been quiet for a while.

"Pineapple and lemon," she answered again without a moment's pause.

I raised my brow in amusement at the combination. It was a bold mixture that most people would shy away from, but not this interesting little girl, who keeps throwing surprises at me.

I called for the waiter and placed our orders–-two plates of spicy tomato carbonara and two glasses of pineapple and lemon juice. Typically, I would have ordered wine, but something about her, made me want to try something different.

When the food arrived, we began eating in silence. I ate slowly, savoring each bite, while she ate with quiet grace, her eyes occasionally flicked up to meet mine, Despite the silence, there was a palpable tension in the air, and I found that tension strangely exhilarating.

I watched her, fascinated by the way she handled herself. She wasn't fidgeting, wasn't nervously glancing around the room, and certainly wasn't trying to make small talk to ease the tension. She was just... there, completely in control of herself. I had never met anyone like her.

"Do you always dine like this?" she asked suddenly, breaking the silence. Her voice was calm, but there was an edge of curiosity in her tone.

I looked up from my plate, my eyes narrowing slightly as I tried to understand what she was saying. "Like what?"

"As if you're having dinner with an old friend instead of someone you just kidnapped," she replied, her lips curling into a half-smile.

My chuckle echoed in the quiet room, this girl is really... something. "I suppose I do. You're not exactly behaving like someone who's being kidnapped either." I shot her an amused look.

She shrugged, taking a sip of her juice. "I find it easier to stay calm in these situations. Panicking never solves anything.'

"That's an interesting perspective," I mused, genuinely intrigued by her attitude. "But what makes you think you're safe with me? For all you know, I could be planning something far worse." I gazed at her waiting for her reply, how was she not scared?

She met my gaze steadily, her expression unreadable. "If you wanted to harm me, you would've done it by now. Besides, you don't strike me as the type to do anything without a good reason."

I leaned back in my chair, studying her carefully. She was perceptive, too perceptive for my liking. But I couldn't deny that she was right. There was no reason for me to harm her, but still, she was bold to assume it.

"Maybe I'm just playing a game" I said after a moment, trying to throw her off balance.

She tilted her head slightly, her eyes narrowing in thought. "Then it's a game you're not playing alone. I don't intend to lose."

I couldn't stop my smile from widening at her boldness. "We'll see about that."

ASIRI

Pah!! The sharp sting spread across my cheek the moment I stepped inside, my mother's hand still raised in the air. My cheek burned from the slap, but I ignored the pain, locking eyes with her.

Vincenzo had just dropped me off after dinner, and I was still relaxed from how well the evening had gone– until my mother's hand struck my face. I could barely register what happened.

"Explain yourself, Mrs. Louis!" I demanded, my words laced with ice.

"You stupid child! How dare you speak to me in such a manner! You aren't even a bit remorseful" She spat, raising her hand in an attempt to slap me again, but I caught her arm mid-air. She thought I'd make the same mistake twice, what a joke.

"I said explain not hit," I said, releasing her arm. She stumbled backward but regained her balance before she could fall.

I glanced around the room, taking in their expressions. Philip, my mother's husband, exchanged a look with his son Jason, both their mouths were parted in disbelief. Abigail, my oh-so-lovely younger sister, just stood there, her brows furrowed as she glared at me. I turned back to my mother, who was still staring wide-eyed at me.

"They must like standing" I whispered under my breath, walking past them to sit with my grandma.

"How was your day Grandma? Are you feeling better?" I smiled softly at her, my eyes scanning her frail figure, checking for signs of recovery, and thankfully she looked more rejuvenated.

"It was fine, my child. I hope you had dinner?" She said, her voice soft and filled with concern which warmed my heart. All she did was worry about me.

"Mother! That's all you can say? Won't you ask your precious granddaughter why she came back late, or why she came back in a strange car? I'm sure it was a man driving the car" My mother spat, clearly unhappy with being ignored.

"Oh, that was why she hit me," I thought, staring at her in disgust. "Mrs. Louis you are now the first lady of the Louis family, you should learn to use your words instead of your hands" I paused, my lips curling up as her features began to distort in anger. "Or else people might assume you act barbaric because you were raised in the village" I drawled, each word of mine dripping with venom.

I had touched a soft spot. Seeing her face flush with anger and embarrassment, her hands clenched by her sides, a cold smirk made its way to my face. She wasn't from a wealthy family and her parents–my grandparents– had lived in the village for a long time. Not to mention, she had once been married to a carpenter, my father. Later, she married into the Louis family, which held some power in Reston. She had always been insecure about it and hated being reminded of her humble background, so she always tried her best to blend in. "How shallow" I scoffed inwardly.

"You little bitch!" She cursed, trying to lunge at me.

Abigail quickly held her back. "Mother, calm down, I'm sure sister didn't mean it," she said gently, trying to calm her down, like the good filial daughter she is in their eyes.

"Tsk! Tsk! But I meant every word dear sister" I dragged out each word, shooting Abigail a fake smile.

For a moment, her mask slipped and she snarled at me, but she quickly regained her composure. "Iri, stop this, mum is only worried because you're new to the city. You are really pretty, and someone with evil thoughts could've taken advantage of you." She said, her voice dripping with concern. Anyone listening would think she had my best interest at heart, but I knew her, and she could barely hide the smug look in her eyes.

"I agree. I am really pretty, and so many bad people will try to take advantage of me. Good thing you don't have to go through the same Abbie" I feigned self-pity, as I touched my face, squinting my eyes at her.

Her hands were clenched by her sides, her jaw was clenched in anger as she glared daggers at me. Just the reaction I wanted. Abigail had always hated the fact that I was more beautiful than her, and she wasn't even ugly, just as shallow as her mother.

"How dare you!" My mother shouted, her eyes wide open, glaring daggers at me. I cast her a glance before scanning everyone's expressions. Philip's brows were furrowed into a frown as he stared at me, while Jason's brow was raised in surprise, they clearly didn't want to get involved. I turned to my grandma who just sat there, leisurely eating fruits. I'm happy she didn't get involved, she does not need the stress.

"Young lady, I'm speaking to you. How dare you talk to your sister in such a manner" She yelled, folding her arms as she shot me a look that said start talking. As if fucking hell that shit would work on me. Her words were met with my silence.

"Mum, don't stress about it, it's okay. What sissy said was the truth." Abigail said in her oh-so-self-righteous voice. It was something I had gotten used to over the years.

"Honey, don't defend her," my mother told Abigail, her voice soft and eyes filled with concern. I was supposed to feel pain from the difference in treatment, but I didn't. Instead, I found it amusing. I had already gotten used to the fact that I would always be seen as the unfilial child.

"Now answer me. Where did you go to? Who did you go with? And most importantly who dropped you off?" She asked in succession, her eyes brimming with curiosity.

I knew she wouldn't let me go without answering her, she would cause a huge scene, especially about the car that dropped me off. Vincenzo's car was a Maybach 57s Knight luxury, I'm sure they didn't know the brand, but it screamed luxury and was rare to find on the streets of Reston.

I sighed and began, "I went to dinner with a friend, and that friend dropped me off" I dropped the explanation and stood up to leave the room.

"What friend? You know no one here" Abigail asked, her brows furrowed in confusion.

I continued going up the stairs, not dropping a reply. I was tired of dealing with them.

"I'm sure it's no one important Mum" I heard Abigail say before disappearing into my room which I shared with my Grandma. I just scoffed ignoring her comment.

~~~

I was typing away on my computer, when my grandma walked in, carrying a plate of fruits. "Dear I'm sure you didn't have dinner, have some fruit," she said, handing me the plate of fruit, but I didn't take it. "Grandma, I had dinner I promise" I assured her softly. She likes to worry for no reason. "No, have it, whether you ate or not. I already had some and we can't let these go to waste" She furrowed her brows at me not taking no for an answer. Sometimes she could be very stubborn.

I sighed in resignation, taking the plate from her, a mix of emotions clouding my chest, as I watched her go into the bathroom to freshen up. She and Grandpa had always been there for me, even when no one wanted me, but Grandpa died some years ago and she acts like she's okay, but I know she's just keeping a strong front for me. Even I always hear his voice when I close my eyes.

"My child come eat..."

"Who doesn't love my sweet little Iri"

"My Iri is the best"

"You've barely touched the fruits Iri" My Grandma said, jolting me from my thoughts. My throat suddenly felt dry and I popped a piece of watermelon into my mouth. "Hey, honey are you okay?" She worriedly asked, sitting beside me. I didn't want to worry her so I just smiled and said. "It's nothing, Granny."

She cast me a doubtful glance, but my smile remained unfazed. "It really is nothing. It's late let me give you your medicine so you can go to bed" I changed the topic, getting up to get them.

"If you say so, but if there is anything at all, you do know you can tell me right?" She said staring at me deeply. I froze for a moment but quickly composed myself. "I know."

I gave her the medicines, and she laid down to sleep but suddenly turned to me and asked. "My child, who dropped you off today?"

For some sick reason, Vincenzo's face flashed in my mind, throwing me off balance for a moment. "Dear?" She called out, seeing I didn't reply.

"Grandma, it's a new friend I met today. Don't worry too much" I tried to keep my voice calm, but for some fucking reason, my voice came out tight.

"My child, I just want you to be safe nothing else." Her eyes were filled with worry.

"I'll be. Now stop worrying and go to sleep" I said, shooting her a small smile. She squeezed my hand and closed her eyes to sleep.

"Sleep well" I whispered to her. In return, she just shot me a sad smile.

When I heard her breath even, I knew she had fallen asleep. I brought out my computer from my backpack and started typing a line of code on it. Sleep was not possible for me, as reoccurring nightmares had left me with lingering insomnia. Even if I managed to fall asleep, the nightmare would still disrupt my rest.

I can vividly remember its fragments:

The deafening shattering of glass, a loud banging sound. The scream of a child, a soft reassuring voice, amidst different voices. The sound of shouting, white lights, sirens, blood everywhere, and a shadowy figure with black hair. They always came in fragments, everything blurred and jumbled up, not making any sense. I couldn't see the faces or anything at all.n

Those were the dreams that had haunted me for years. As I closed my eyes replaying those blurred images, It felt like icy fingers gripped my neck. Sweat drops lined my pale face as I gripped the table, hoping it would somehow draw me out of my trance.

Thankfully, I found my savior when the continuous ringing of my phone, slowly drew me out of my thoughts.

My shaky hands picked up the phone. Seeing who the caller was, I took a deep breath, adjusted my emotions, and answered the call.

"Hello," I said, hoping my voice didn't sound breathy.

"I've arrived." The caller replied.