Hi everyone, this is my first time writing a story and I hope you guys will like it.
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MAIN CHARACTERS:
Ashley
Works at a diner
Savage, Hates Ethan
Ethan
Mafia
Playboy, Likes to flirt
Rachel
Works at a diner
Ashley's bestfriend, Loves Ethan
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Ashley groaned as her alarm rang shrilly in her ear, signaling the start of another dreary day at the diner. She slapped at the snooze button, her hand hitting the nightstand with a thump. It was the same routine every morning, but she couldn't muster the strength to get out of bed. Her eyes remained closed, the images of the previous night's shift playing through her mind like a broken record. The smell of grease and stale coffee lingered on her clothes and skin, and the sound of clinking dishes and forced laughter echoed in her ears.
Her thoughts drifted to Ethan Castellanos, the town's resident heartthrob and notorious playboy. He had a habit of popping into the diner with his entourage of giggling admirers, leaving a trail of chaos and empty wallets in his wake. At 18, Ethan was the youngest Mafia King, living off his family's ill-gotten wealth and flaunting it around town. Ashley couldn't stand him; his cold, calculating gaze made her skin crawl, and the way he flirted with every waitress was beyond infuriating. But there was something about him, a darkness that intrigued her, despite her better judgment.
The alarm blared again, and with a sigh, she sat up and swung her legs over the side of the bed. She had to be at work in an hour, and she hadn't even had a shower yet. Ashley trudged to the bathroom, the cold tiles biting at her bare feet as she turned on the faucet and let the water run. The steam began to fill the small space, and she stepped under the spray, letting the hot water wash away the last vestiges of sleep. The scent of mint from her shampoo filled the air, and she inhaled deeply, trying to shake off the lingering unease that Ethan's face brought to her mind.
Dressed in her worn-out diner uniform, she grabbed her bag and headed out the door. The early morning light cast long shadows across the quiet streets, the only sounds the distant hum of a car and the chirp of an early bird. The diner was already bustling by the time she arrived, the smell of frying bacon and brewing coffee assaulting her senses. She clocked in and grabbed an apron, tying it around her waist with a practiced flick of her wrist.
As the morning rush grew, so did the tension in her shoulders. She tried to ignore the whispers and glances that followed Ethan's entrance. He sauntered in, all confidence and swagger, surrounded by his usual gang of sycophants. They took their usual booth, and she couldn't help but feel his eyes on her as she filled water glasses and took orders. His gaze was like a physical touch, making her skin crawl and her stomach twist into knots.
Their eyes met briefly, and she saw something flicker in his cold stare—a challenge, or perhaps a hint of amusement. Ashley stiffened, refusing to let him see her discomfort. She approached the booth with a forced smile plastered on her face. "Coffee?" she asked, her voice tight.
Ethan leaned back, his arms crossed over his broad chest. "You know what I want," he said, his tone low and smug. The other waitresses giggled nervously, and Ashley's cheeks flushed with anger.
"Then order like everyone else," she snapped, slapping a menu down on the table.
Ethan's smile widened, and she saw the glint of a challenge in his eyes. "Fine," he said, flipping open the menu. "I'll have the usual."
As the day dragged on, the diner grew increasingly crowded, and the kitchen's chaos grew more intense. Orders were shouted, dishes clattered, and the smells of breakfast mingled with the faint scent of grease and coffee. Ashley felt Ethan's eyes on her more frequently than usual, and she couldn't ignore the way her heart skipped a beat every time their eyes met. She hated him, but she couldn't deny that there was something about his confidence, his power, that drew her in.
When she wasn't waiting tables, she found herself staring out the window, lost in thought. What was it about him that bothered her so much? Was it his arrogance, his wealth, or the fact that she knew he was dangerous? Or was it the way he looked at her, as if he could see right through her tough exterior to the scared, vulnerable girl she tried so hard to hide?
As the lunch crowd began to thin, Ethan's group remained, chatting and laughing. They had long finished eating, but they didn't seem to be in a hurry to leave. Ashley felt his eyes on her again, and she turned to face him. "Is there something else I can get you?" she asked, her voice cool and professional.
Ethan leaned forward, his elbows on the table. "Actually, I was wondering if you'd like to join us after your shift. We're having a little get-together at my place." He gestured to one of his friends, who slid a folded piece of paper across the table to her. "Here's the address."
Ashley stared at the paper, her heart racing. The nerve of this guy. "Thanks, but I don't think so," she said, pushing it back. "I've got better things to do."
Ethan's smile didn't falter. "I insist," he said, his tone a mix of amusement and command. "It'll be fun. Besides, I'm curious to see what the girl who can handle the diner's chaos is like outside of work."
Ashley felt the eyes of the other patrons on her, and she knew that refusing now would only make her look weak. She snatched the paper and tucked it into her apron. "Fine," she said through gritted teeth. "But don't expect me to stay long."
The rest of her shift felt like an eternity. Her mind raced with thoughts of what could possibly be waiting for her at Ethan's place. Was this a setup? A way to get her alone and vulnerable? Or was he truly just a bored, rich kid looking for some entertainment? She didn't dare confide in anyone, not even her best friend, Rachel, who was working the counter. Rachel had a crush on Ethan, and Ashley didn't want to ruin her illusion.
When her shift ended, she headed back to her apartment.When she arrived at the party, everyones jaw dropped looking at Ashley, She looked stunning in her black, off-shoulder dress that came just above her knees. Ethan's eyes lit up like stars when he saw her.
He had never seen her like this before. Gone was the tired, frumpy waitress; in her place was a beauty that could make any man's knees wobble. Her dark hair fell in soft waves around her face, framing high cheekbones and piercing green eyes that seemed to look right through him. She had always been pretty, but now she was... fierce.
Ethan's heart skipped a beat, and he had to remind himself that this was the girl who had spurned his advances so many times. He had to play it cool, keep her guessing. "Welcome to my humble abode," he said, extending his hand to lead her inside. The mansion was alive with music and laughter, a stark contrast to the quiet diner she was used to.
Ethan introduced her to everyone as his girlfriend. Ashley looked at him, shocked. She didn't know if it was a joke or if he was serious, but she played along. It was clear that his friends weren't used to seeing him with the same girl twice, let alone someone from the diner. Turns out, Rachel was also invited. Rachel looked at her with a mix of admiration and betrayal. Rachel had always had a crush on Ethan, and she had hoped that one day he'd look her way.
They danced to the rhythm of the bass pumping through the speakers, the lights strobing around them. She felt his hand on her lower back, guiding her through the crowded room. His touch sent electric jolts through her, and she had to admit, it felt good to be the center of his attention. Rachel shot her glances, but Ashley saw her. Rachel's eyes were filled with a mix of envy and accusation, but Ashley couldn't do anything. She wanted to explain Rachel everything, but
By that time Ethan dragged her to a quieter corner of the room, away from prying eyes. The air grew thick with tension as they stood there, the music nothing but a faint murmur in the background.
"So, why did you really come?" Ethan asked, his voice low and seductive.
Ashley took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. "I don't know," she admitted, looking into his eyes. "Maybe I wanted to see what the fuss was about."
Ethan leaned in closer, his breath warm on her neck. "The fuss is about me," he whispered, his fingers tracing the line of her jaw. "And you can't resist finding out more."
Ashley stepped back, breaking the spell. "I'm not like the other girls," she said firmly. "I'm not going to fall for your charm."
Ethan chuckled, his eyes never leaving hers. "That's what they all say." He took a step closer again, and she could feel the heat emanating from his body. "But I think you're different."
"I am," she replied, her voice steady. "I've seen the kind of games you play, and I'm not going to be one of your pawns."
Ethan's smile grew colder, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Is that so?" he murmured, his hand reaching for hers. "Then maybe it's time for a new game."
Ashley felt a thrill of excitement and fear race through her body. She knew she was playing with fire, but she couldn't pull away. His touch was like a brand, searing her skin and leaving a trail of heat in its wake. "What are you playing at?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ethan leaned in even closer, his breath tickling her ear. "Maybe I'm tired of the games," he said, his voice a seductive purr. "Maybe I've found someone who's more than just a passing amusement."
Ashley's pulse quickened, and she realized that she was holding her breath. "I'm not your type, Ethan," she said, trying to keep the tremble out of her voice. "I'm not one of your rich, spoiled little playthings."
He leaned back, his grip on her hand loosening. "Maybe that's what makes you interesting," he said with a smirk. "You think you know what you're getting into, but you have no idea."
Ashley felt a chill run down her spine, but she didn't back down. "I know more than you think," she replied, her voice steady despite the butterflies in her stomach. "Your kind is all the same. You think you can buy or charm your way through life."
Ethan's smile didn't waver. "And what makes you think you're any different?" He took another step closer, his hand sliding up her arm. "You're here, aren't you?"
Ashley's heart raced as she met his gaze. "Because I wanted to prove to myself that I can handle you," she said, her voice surprisingly calm. "But I'm not here to be another notch on your bedpost."
Ethan's eyes searched hers, and for a brief moment, she thought she saw something genuine in them —something more than just the cold, calculating look he usually gave her. "You think you can handle me?" he asked, his voice a low rumble.
Ashley swallowed, her throat suddenly dry. "I know I can," she said, trying to sound more confident than she felt.
Ethan's hand reached up to cup her cheek, his thumb brushing against her skin. "We'll see," he murmured, and before she could react, he leaned in and kissed her. It was a kiss that spoke of power and possession, a kiss that sent a jolt of electricity through her body. She pushed him away, her heart racing.
"What are you doing?" she demanded, her voice shaking.
"Testing your limits," Ethan replied, his gaze unwavering. "You think you're so tough, but you're just like all the rest."
Ashley's eyes narrowed. "I'm nothing like the girls you're used to," she spoke in rage. "And you can keep your games to yourself." She turned to walk away, but his grip on her arm tightened.
"You're right," Ethan said, pulling her back to face him. "You're not like them. That's why I want you." He leaned in again, his breath warm against her cheek. "But you're wrong if you think you can just walk away."
Ashley's heart pounded in her chest, and she felt a strange mix of anger and exhilaration. "Let go of me," she growled, trying to pull away.
Ethan's grip tightened, and his smile grew more predatory. "Or what?" he whispered, his breath hot on her skin.
Ashley's eyes flashed with defiance. "Or you'll regret it," she warned, her voice low and deadly.
Ethan's smile only widened. "Is that so?" He leaned in closer, their noses almost touching. "I live for regret, darling. It's what keeps me going."
Ashley felt a strange thrill at his words, and for a split second, she wondered if she could be the one to finally break through his icy exterior. But she quickly pushed the thought aside, reminding herself of his true nature. "I'm not your toy, Ethan," she said, her voice firm.
"You might not be," he conceded, his grip loosening slightly. "But I can't resist a challenge." He leaned back and studied her for a moment, his gaze traveling from her fiery eyes to her trembling lips. "Tell me," he said, his tone lightening slightly, "What do you know about the Castellanos family?"
Ashley's heart was racing, but she knew better than to show it. "I know enough," she said, her voice even. "Your family's got a history with the mafia. That's all I need to know."
Ethan's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, she thought she had pushed him too far. But then his smile returned, a dangerous glint in his eye. "Ah, the infamous Castellanos reputation," he said, his voice filled with amusement. "It's surprising how much you know...or think you know."
Ashley took a deep breath, her heart hammering in her chest. "I know enough to stay away from you and your kind," she said firmly. "So, let's keep this professional, shall we?"
Rachel Interrupts their conversation by spilling her wine on Ashley. Rachel looked at her with wide eyes, horrified at the scene she had just interrupted. The room fell silent. Ashley tries to explain, "Rachel, this is a misunderstanding. I-" Ethan interrupts, "Are you mad, Rachel?!" Rachel moves towards Ashley but, Ethan comes infront of Ashley, stopping Rachel from grabbing Ashley's neck. "Back off Rachel, she's my girlfriend," he says calmly, his eyes never leaving Ashley's. Rachel's eyes were filled with anger and frustration which she wanted to take out on Ashley.
Rachel stumbles back, the room spinning. "I don't believe this," Rachel says, her voice trembling. "You bitch!" She raised her hand to slap Ashley, but Ethan caught it mid-air. Rachel's eyes widened in shock and pain. "I said, Back off!" Ethan's voice is cold steel, and Rachel kicks Ashley in her abdomen with her sharp heel, leaving Ashley bloodied.
Ashley let's out a pained cry and crumpled to the floor, the wind knocked out of her. She felt the sticky warmth of her own blood seeping through her dress. Rachel's betrayal was a knife to her gut, she was obsessed on Ethan. Ethan turned to Ashley, he felt for her pulse, it was weak and she could die any moment. Rachel's face went pale as she realized the gravity of her action.
Rachel bent down to Ashley, "DON'T YOU DARE!" Ethan warned Rachel. Rachel's eyes were wide with shock at what she'd done. Rachel had never been violent before, not like this. Ethan had seen her jealous before, but he had never seen her act on it so viciously.
Ashley reached for Ethan's hand, her breaths shallow and pained. "I'm sorry," Rachel whispered, her voice barely audible over the thud of the bass. "I didn't mean to—"
Ethan's grip on Rachel's wrist tightened, cutting off her words. "Get out," he said through clenched teeth. Rachel looked at him, tears in her eyes, but she knew better than to argue. She slipped away, the room watching her retreating figure as Ethan cradled Ashley.
He scooped her up, "I said Out!" to Rachel and the party goers who were now just staring in horror. He carried Ashley through the mansion to the back door, the music and laughter fading into the background. The night air was cool and crisp, and she could feel it against her flushed cheek. Ethan's arms were firm around her, his touch surprisingly gentle as he placed her in the backseat of a sleek black car. He slammed the door and rounded to the driver's side, the engine roaring to life with a growl that mirrored the tension in the air.
The drive to the hospital was a blur of lights and speed. Ashley could feel the warm stickiness of her blood seeping into the plush leather seats. She tried to stay conscious, to focus on the sound of Ethan's voice as he spoke calmly into his phone, instructing someone to meet them at the emergency entrance. She wanted to yell at him, to push him away, but she was too weak, too consumed by the pain to do anything but lean into his embrace.
When they arrived, a flurry of medical staff rushed to the car. Ethan didn't let go of her hand, his grip tight and reassuring as they wheeled her into the brightly lit building. The smell of antiseptic was overwhelming, and she felt nauseous. She couldn't believe that Rachel, her best friend, had done this to her. The pain was a constant, pulsing reminder of the betrayal.
The doctor's words were a blur as they examined her, but she heard the word 'surgery' and felt a wave of panic. Ethan remained by her side, his eyes never leaving hers, his hand never leaving hers. His touch was a lifeline in the chaos, and she squeezed it tightly. "You'll be okay," he said, his voice firm, and she wanted to believe him.
The surgery was a success, Ashley was unconscious, Ethan took her to his place. He placed her gently on the bed and slid beside her, his eyes never leaving hers. Rachel was nowhere to be seen, and he was relieved. He knew Rachel had feelings for him, but he had never encouraged them. Rachel had crossed a line, and he wasn't sure if he could ever forgive her for this.
Ethan sat there, watching over Ashley as she slept, his mind racing with thoughts. He had never felt this protective over anyone before. He had seen many things in his life, but the way Rachel had hurt Ashley was something he had never wanted to witness. It was unlike Rachel, and it troubled him deeply.
He kissed Ashley's forehead and enveloped her. She felt his warmth and took comfort in it. Rachel's betrayal was fresh in her mind, but in Ethan's arms, she felt a strange sense of security.
When she finally woke up, the room was dark. She sat up, her hand gingerly touching the bandage on her stomach. The pain was dull now, replaced by a heavy sadness. Rachel had been her confidant, her rock, and now she was the reason Ashley lay in this unfamiliar bed, her life forever changed.
Her eyes searched the room, taking in the opulence she had never seen before. Plush carpets, velvet drapes, and gleaming chandeliers cast eerie shadows in the moonlit room. It was a stark contrast to her modest apartment, a reminder of the chasm between their worlds. But here she was, in the lion's den, with the man she despised yet couldn't help but feel drawn to.
Ashley managed to stand, her legs wobbly but holding. She needed to get home, to think, to figure out what the hell just happened. Before she could take a step, the bedroom door creaked open and Ethan emerged, dressed in nothing but a pair of low-slung pajama pants. His muscular chest was bare, and his hair was a mess from sleep. For a brief moment, she forgot about Rachel and the party and the pain, and just stared.
He saw her standing, and his eyes grew wide with concern. "What are you doing up?" he asked, crossing the room in a few long strides. "You should be resting."
Ashley took a step back, the distance between them suddenly too small. "I need to go home," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ethan's expression softened. "You can't," he said gently. "Not yet. The doctor said you need to rest. You lost a lot of blood, and you're still weak."
Ashley felt a surge of anger at his presumptive tone. "I don't care," she said, her voice stronger than she felt. "I don't belong here."
Ethan sighed and sat down beside her, his hand resting gently on her arm. "You can't go anywhere until you're well enough," he said. "Please, just rest. I'll take care of you."
Ashley looked into his eyes, searching for any sign of the playboy she had grown to despise. But all she saw was genuine concern, and it was disarming. "Why are you being like this?" she whispered.
"Because I...... I love you" Ethan said with a sigh, looking into her eyes.
Ashley felt like the wind had been knocked out of her again. This wasn't the same cold, arrogant Ethan she knew.
"But I can't be with you" she said, trying to push down the hope that was bubbling up inside her.
Ethan's eyes searched hers, and she could see the conflict within him.
"Why not?" He asked, his voice softer than she had ever heard it before.
Ashley took a deep breath, trying to find the words."Because you don't know me. Our worlds are far apart". Ethan comes closer to Ashley,"then I can get to know you... Just give me a chance, Please."
They looked into Each others eyes, they leaned in to kiss. Ashley's arms wrapped around his neck and Ethan's hand wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer,
A passion igniting between them.
*The End*
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So that's all I hope you guys liked it
