Mafia's Second Chance Love

Chapter 10: The Past Is Present

As I hung up the phone after speaking to Ace, an intense wave of emotions washed over me, and panic pulsed through my veins. I set the phone down on my desk, my trembling hands betraying my inner turmoil. Hearing Ace's unmistakable voice had sent a jolt of both relief and disbelief through me. It had been years since I last heard him, and I couldn't deny the comfort it brought.

But Ace's decision to handle the matter personally was unexpected, a departure from what I had anticipated. I had assumed he would delegate it to a representative from his vast company. The thought of Ace becoming directly involved was both exhilarating and daunting, raising questions and uncertainties.

The workday dragged on, and as the hours passed, I could feel the weight of Ace's impending involvement pressing down on me. I knew I needed to discuss this with Ethan, but I also needed a breath of fresh air. I decided to walk to his apartment. The crisp, cold air of London was refreshing that evening, giving me a much-needed lift. As I waited for the traffic light to turn green, I realized which intersection I was at. It had been a few years, but at this very intersection, I had seen Ace in the flesh. It wasn't on a television or any other screen, but right there before me. I had looked into his eyes, his gaze as cold as ever for others, but I knew him well enough to discern the warmth hidden within those hazel eyes. I quickly averted my gaze, pretending not to recognize him. Still, I could feel his intense stare burning into me. When the light finally turned green, I started walking. Even though I felt my legs almost giving up on me, I pushed the negative thoughts and kept looking away from him. Ethan was waiting for me behind Ace. I had to pretend everything was alright. I smiled wide at Ethan and went in for a hug.

''Ace is looking at us.'' I whispered to Ethan. Much like myself, Ethan hated physical touch. I've never given him a hug. The only reason I did was because I felt like I might collapse right there. Ethan's hand immediately reached for my waist, offering much-needed support to my legs, preventing them from giving out.

''Let's go inside.'' he replied coldly, and together we entered the coffeeshop.

With that thought, I found myself standing at Ethan's doorstep. Once inside, I could see the concern in his eyes. He knew something had happened, even though I hadn't shared a word of it on our way here.

''Are you going to make me ask?'' Ethan inquired. I took a deep breath and turned on the boiler to make us some tea.

''Ace called.'' I replied coldly. The sound of Ethan's fingers tapping on his keyboard ceased as he slowly turned his chair to face me.

''As in Ace Ace? Or his assistant or something?'' I nodded and he understood it was no secretary or assistant. It was the man himself.

''He wants to meet tomorrow at 8pm, at the Celestial Hotel Restaurant.''

"So he wants to show off?" I knew Ethan didn't hold a favorable opinion of Ace, having shared my past with him long ago. He was the only person I trusted with my story. "So let me get this straight. He wants to meet and discuss a charity event at the most prestigious and luxurious hotel restaurant in London, where one plate of food can serve as a donation to the cause?!"

I nodded again as he breathed out his irritation as he turned around and started typing again on his computer. With that, I returned to make some tea for us and sat on the couch. A few moments passed when Ethan talked again.

''And how are you taking things?'' his concern was obvious.

''I'm trying to be calm about it but...''

''You have the right to be upset.'' he instantly answered. ''And fu** this job! I can find you another one. If you don't wanna do it it's okay.'' His response only mirrored one part of my thoughts. But how can I leave Claudia, her son and so many other families under my wing because of a man like Ace?! There was no way.

''We both know I can't do that.'' I could see the disappointment in Ethan's face. He knows I'm right. ''I'll go.'' I finally said.

''Listen. I will be watching you, okay?'' with one click all the monitors were showing CCTV footage. I observed them trying to understand what I was seeing. In the middle was the entrance of the Celestial hotel. This is live footage from the hotel. ''I might be all day here, but remember, I'm next to you in spirit. I get that you want to do this, but Ace is a different league altogether. He's not the kind of person you can trust easily, and you know what happened last time. I'm just trying to be a good friend here."

My gaze dropped to my tea, memories of that fateful day when I had walked away from Ace flooded my thoughts. The emotions stirred within me were a tumultuous mix of regret, longing, and determination. I took a deep breath before continuing. "I can't deny the past, Ethan, but this is a chance to make a real impact. I need to go since I'm responsible for these families. I'll treat him like a sponsor."

Ethan sighed and nodded, understanding the weight of my responsibility. "I know you won't back down, Kira. You never do. But promise me one thing: be careful. Ace is no ordinary man, and there's more to him than meets the eye. Don't let your guard down."

I met Ethan's gaze, my expression resolute.

"I won't, I promise. And I know you'll be there with me, even if it's through those screens." I pointed at the security footage, my gratitude evident.

Ethan cracked a faint smile. "That's what friends are for, right?"

Ethan's faint smile bolstered my spirits, and I left his apartment that night with a glimmer of hope, yet my thoughts remained in disarray. The weight of the upcoming meeting with Ace still bore heavily on my shoulders.

The next day, as I stood in my modest apartment, the sun's gentle rays filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, warm glow. It was a stark contrast to the tumultuous emotions swirling within me. I knew I needed to prepare for the meeting, and that included choosing the right attire.

Frowning at my wardrobe, I contemplated what to wear. The Celestial Hotel Restaurant was known for its opulence and sophistication, and I needed to make a strong impression on Ace. I couldn't afford to appear underdressed. However, I also didn't want to appear overly formal, as it might convey the wrong message.

I pulled out a few options from my closet, laying them across the bed. There was a classic black dress, a symbol of elegance, but it felt a bit too formal. Then there was a sleek, navy pantsuit, projecting professionalism, but perhaps too conservative.

After a few moments of indecision, I settled on a black turtleneck dress that complimented my body and matched it with a black suit on top, for a touch of professionalism. It was a balance of sophistication and approachability, something that could convey both confidence and warmth. I hoped it was the right choice. I wore my black coat and my black knee-length boots. I combed my hair back and held it with a golden leaf tiara, which matched my golden vine earrings. My chest tattoo was covered under my dress.

With my outfit selected, I moved on to the next task: gathering my notes, research, and ideas for the meeting. Ace was not someone you could simply walk into a meeting with unprepared, and I knew I needed to have a well-thought-out strategy.

As I gathered my materials, I couldn't help but feel a surge of determination. I might not have known what to expect from the meeting with Ace, but I was ready to face the enigmatic man, my past, and whatever challenges lay ahead. It was for a cause I deeply believed in, and that conviction was my driving force.

The clock on the wall reminded me that the meeting was fast approaching, and I had to leave soon. Taking one last look in the mirror, I hoped that my chosen attire reflected the strength, purpose, and hope that I carried within me. With a final deep breath, I left my apartment, ready to face whatever awaited me at the Celestial Hotel Restaurant.

Arriving at the Celestial Hotel Restaurant, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The elegant décor, crystal chandeliers, and the soft glow of dimmed lights created an atmosphere of sophistication and luxury. It was a world away from the events I typically organized for SafeHaven.

As I approached the hostess, she greeted me with a warm smile and asked for my reservation details. I gave her my name, and she quickly checked her list.

"Ah, Miss Kira, right this way, please," she said, leading me through the bustling restaurant. The scent of delicious food and the hum of conversation filled the air.

She guided me to a table with a breathtaking view of London's skyline. I took a moment to admire the city's twinkling lights, a stark contrast to the darkness of the night. The beautiful scenery did little to ease my nerves, though.

Ace had yet to arrive, and my anticipation grew with each passing minute. I knew the meeting held the potential to change the lives of countless families under SafeHaven's care, and the weight of that responsibility hung heavy on my shoulders.

I tried to quell the racing thoughts and butterflies in my stomach. My fingers lightly traced the edge of the menu as I waited for Ace. The minutes felt like hours, and my mind continued to replay scenarios of our meeting. How would he react? Would he remember the past? Would he agree to support the charity event? So many questions and no answers.

Then, a voice interrupted my thoughts. "Miss Kira, would you like something to drink while you wait?"

I looked up to see a waiter, his polite smile doing little to ease my anxiety. "Just water, please," I replied, my voice quivering slightly. After everything, I stayed away from alcohol.

As I waited for my glass of water, I couldn't help but glance at the entrance, my heart racing in anticipation. The door to the restaurant opened, and there he was, stepping into the dimly lit room.

Ace.