Mafia's Second Chance Love

Chapter 11: An evening with Ace

He exuded an aura of power and confidence, moving with the grace of someone accustomed to the world's attention. Dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, he looked every bit the successful and enigmatic figure I remembered.

As he approached my table, my palms grew sweaty, and I clenched my fists under the table. I forced a smile, hoping to hide the mixture of emotions coursing through me.

"Ace," I greeted, my voice steadier than I felt.

"Kira," he replied, his hazel eyes locking onto mine. There was something in that gaze, something I couldn't quite decipher. "It's been a long time, hasn't it?"

As I held Ace's intense gaze, I knew that this meeting would be the start of something significant. It was a chance to make a real impact, a chance to change lives. But it was also a chance to confront our shared past and the complex relationship that had once been. I took a deep breath, ready to face whatever lay ahead, as Ace settled into the seat across from me.

Ace and I settled into our seats, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken words and the weight of what this meeting could mean for SafeHaven. I took a deep breath and picked up the menu, my fingers trembling slightly as I tried to focus on the array of choices in front of me.

A waiter approached our table, his posture attentive and respectful. "Good evening. Are you ready to order, sir?"

I glanced at the menu, my gaze shifting from one dish to another, unsure of what to select. Ace, on the other hand, seemed confident in his choice. He looked up at the waiter and spoke with a calm authority that I remembered so well.

"We'll have the roasted duck," Ace said, his voice unwavering. "But please, no tomatoes in the salad. She's allergic."

My heart skipped a beat at his words. It had been years since Ace and I had shared a meal, yet he still remembered my tomato allergy. His consideration both surprised and touched me, and for a moment, I was at a loss for words.

The waiter nodded and noted Ace's request, his pen scribbling on his notepad. "Of course, sir. No tomatoes in the salad."

I finally found my voice, offering a faint smile. "Thank you," I said to Ace, acknowledging his thoughtfulness.

Ace returned the smile, his hazel eyes softening for a brief moment. It was a glimpse of the Ace I remembered, the one who knew me better than most. As the waiter collected our menus and left to place our orders, I couldn't help but wonder how this evening would unfold.

I took a moment to collect my thoughts and Ace seemed not to mind at all. It seems that we are both trying to assess the situation. He changed. I haven't seen him up close till now. Only that day at the crossroad. His hair is short and combed back. He never liked suits, yet now he seems to be comfortable in one. He's bigger than I remember. I can easily hide myself behind his back. The past and present intertwined in an intricate dance, and I knew there were questions that needed answers.

I turned my attention back to Ace, who was studying me with an intensity that seemed to pierce through my defenses.

"Thank you, Ace," I began, sincerity in my voice. "For agreeing to sponsor the charity event. It means a lot to SafeHaven, and it means a lot to me."

Ace's expression remained unreadable as he acknowledged my gratitude with a nod.

"I must emphasize that I'm responsible for this event," I continued. "I've been working on it for months, and I want to see it through to the end. It's not just about the money; it's about the impact we can make on those families. I hope you understand that."

Ace leaned back in his chair, his fingers tapping lightly on the table. "I understand," he said, his tone measured.

I seized the opportunity to ask the question that had been nagging at me since our conversation had begun. "May I ask why you chose to be the sponsor for this event? And how did it come about?"

Ace's gaze shifted momentarily, and I thought I detected a flicker of uncertainty. He seemed to choose his words carefully before he responded. "It's a cause I believe in, Kira. And as for how it came about, let's just say that opportunities present themselves in unexpected ways."

I knew there was more to the story, but Ace's response left me with little room to press further. I couldn't shake the feeling that he was hiding something, and I made a mental note to tread carefully. Ethan and I discovered that Ace met my boss at a gambling den, and I know for a fact that Ace has connections to the underworld.

''Is something troubling you?'' his voice was calm, yet I could detect the concern behind it.

''Not really. To be honest, for the last few days I have been thinking about the past.'' my voice came out bitter.

Before the silence between us could grow uncomfortable, Ace decided to ask the question I'm sure he was trying to ask from the start. "How have you been, Kira? It's been a while since we last saw each other."

''I'm good. I have everything that I need. What else can I possibly ask... You?''

Ace leaned forward, his eyes locked onto mine. There was a depth to his gaze that made me uneasy, and I could sense that he was trying to read beyond the words I spoke.

"Kira," he began, his voice softer now, "I know that our past is complicated, and I also know there are things left unsaid between us. But I hope you understand that I genuinely want to help with this charity event. It's not just a business arrangement for me."

I met his gaze, and for a moment, the barriers between us seemed to waver. "I appreciate your support, Ace," I admitted, my voice laced with sincerity. "But I also can't help but wonder about the real reasons behind it. I've worked with your kind. The only thing they truly wanted was the tax benefits, so you can understand my suspicion." my answer was honest, I did not want to beat around the bush any more.

''It has some benefits, there's no denying it, but you must also know that I have been trying to be SafeHaven's sponsor for years now. For some reason, I kept getting rejected.'' His tone was investigating. It's true that every year a representative from his business would send us a proposition to be our sponsor for the event. I kept rejecting them solely because of my past with Ace and my decision not to let him into my life. Something that Mr. Harrington had no idea about.

"I appreciate your commitment," I said, my voice softer now, "and I don't want to dismiss your intentions. But you must understand that there's a lot of history between us.'' His gaze lowered. For now he had no answer.

The arrival of our food offered a brief reprieve from the intense emotions of our conversation. As the plates were set in front of us, I decided to steer the discussion toward the technicalities of the charity event, focusing on the logistics and details. It was a safer territory, a place where I felt more in control.

''I have yet to find a venue, but as soon as I do I'll reach your representative to discuss the prices and such.'' His eyes stared right at me puzzled.

''I don't mind prices. Do what you have to do without thinking about them too.'' he simply answered. ''As for the venue, It's going to be right here.'' his voice determined.

I almost choked on my food. Stared at him with wide eyes.

''H-Here?'' I stammered.

''Here. At the Celestial Hotel. It will serve as our venue for the charity event. As for the guest list, I don't mind who you invite but we do need to discuss some additions. I have many friends that could attend with the intention of donating.''

I was still processing the gravity of Ace's proposal when I voiced my concerns. "Ace, I appreciate the offer, and I understand the potential of raising significant funds at such a venue, but I worry about how it might affect the families we're trying to help."

Ace leaned forward, his expression thoughtful. "What do you mean, Kira?"

I explained, "Our charity events have always been about inclusivity. We want to make sure that the families we support feel comfortable and welcome. Hosting the event at a place like the Celestial Hotel might make them feel out of place. Do you know of any family that has been through hell and back to have a suit in hand or a formal dress? It could be overwhelming for them, and they might feel belittled or self-conscious, especially with the media presence. I can't put them in such an uncomfortable position."

Ace's brow furrowed as he considered my words. ''I see...'' he only answered. The Celestial Hotel is his world. People like me, like those families, like Ethan... We don't belong here.

''Then I'll make sure to dress every single member of the organisation.'' My eyes widened once again. ''What?''

''That's too much. You can't possibly bear the cost of all this. We can simply find another place.'' I admitted.

''He leaned back in his chair, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Kira, are you worried I might go bankrupt?" His laughter drew curious glances from nearby tables. It's been years since I've seen Ace's pearly smile. It took me aback, almost forgetting that we were in a fully packed restaurant.

''I already told you. Leave the expenses out of it. I'll handle everything.'' he said and continued eating.

As we delved into the details of the event, I couldn't help but be relieved by Ace's willingness to support the cause wholeheartedly. The weight of the logistics and the families' well-being lifted from my shoulders. We were in the middle of discussing seating arrangements when a woman approached our table, her gaze fixed on Ace. I could sense her familiarity with him, though her name or background remained a mystery to me.

"Ace," she purred, her voice dripping with flirtation, "I see you're in delightful company tonight."

Ace's reaction was a stark contrast to his earlier friendly demeanor. He remained composed, his eyes fixed on the woman, his smile fading. "Good evening," he replied, his tone colder and more distant.

''Where have you been, honey?'' her lust was evident.

The woman continued to engage in light conversation, her flirtatious advances unmistakable, but Ace's focus remained resolutely on our discussion. I found myself growing increasingly uncomfortable with her presence. This was a stark reminder of the world Ace belonged to, and it stirred up memories of why I had chosen to leave it all behind. It only tied my stomach in knots.

"I see you're busy," I interjected, trying to hide my unease, "and I have a few more details to sort out. I'll leave you to your conversation."

Ace, his gaze still on me, immediately responded, "No, Kira, please don't go.'' His voice held a note of urgency, and it was clear he didn't want me to leave.

''Or she can leave and I can keep you company for the rest of the night.'' the woman responded as he perked her chest in front of us. That was the last straw. I stood up, wore my coat, and packed my things.

''It is fine.'' My tone came out colder than I anticipated. ''Please have Amanda send me a number or an email of your representative so I can discuss the event further without interruptions.'' My words were carefully chosen as I tried not to show my annoyance.

''Kira th-this! I will take care o-''

''Goodnight, Ace. Hope to see you at the event. If not, then have a nice life.'' I blurted out and walked away.

As I reached the door of the restaurant, I turned back only to see the blonde woman sitting in my place. That was it. I opened the door and left. I only wanted to be at the presence of a friend, and without a second thought, I started heading to Ethan's apartment.