Heart Thief

0015 Nightmare

"What's the rush? I didn't say I wanted to leave," Skye said coldly as Jake practically dragged her out of the casino.

"You don't know how to play, so what's the point of staying? Come on, I'll show you something more exciting. Vegas isn't just about gambling," Jake replied, quickening his pace. He'd noticed the hungry looks directed at Skye - eyes that saw her as a walking gold mine, beautiful and wealthy. In this chaotic place, she was a rare prize everyone wanted to claim.

Standing under the night sky, Skye frowned. "Don't tell me you brought me out here to stargaze."

Jake laughed. "Stargazing? Please don't attribute such cliché behavior to me. I'm not into that kind of so-called romantic nonsense. I'm just an ordinary guy, not into that highbrow stuff."

Skye observed Jake's distaste, then looked at the dim surroundings and the hazy stars above. Stargazing in the desert wasn't particularly impressive with all the dust in the air.

"We're here," Jake announced.

Skye saw a couple of tables and chairs on a dimly lit street corner. The area was deserted, a stark contrast to the bustling casino district. It was hard to believe such a quiet place existed in Las Vegas.

As Jake seated her, Skye raised an eyebrow. "I hope you're not planning some deep, late-night conversation."

Jake chuckled. "Even if you wanted to, I don't have the energy. I'll repeat: I'm just an ordinary guy who does ordinary things."

Skye didn't argue this point, especially when the food arrived quickly. It was clear Jake was indeed an ordinary guy who understood the importance of a good meal. And at this moment, with her stomach growling after spending hours at the roulette wheel, Skye found herself appreciating Jake's simple tastes.

"This is a Chinese restaurant. The food's great, try it," Jake suggested.

Skye tasted the dark, unidentifiable dish Jake pointed out and nodded approvingly. It was authentic, and she liked it.

Jake smiled as he watched Skye dig in without hesitation. From their first meeting, he'd known she wasn't the pretentious type. Her casualness and authenticity had caught his attention, even as it challenged him.

After investigating the racing incident, Jake had a pretty good idea of Skye's motivations. Despite her apparent coldness, she had strong principles and passion. This side of Skye made him determined not to look away.

Their chopsticks clashed as they both reached for the last piece of cod. Skye raised an eyebrow at Jake's smiling face. "Manners, manners," she teased.

Jake shook his head, smiling. "Manners don't fill the stomach." He paused, then added with a grin, "But if you were my girlfriend, I'd let you have it."

Skye let out an exaggerated "Oh?" Jake chuckled and continued, "Be my girlfriend, and I'll give you anything you want. I'll protect you, even if your opponent is the Blue Bang. They won't be able to touch my woman."

Skye's eyes widened slightly at Jake's bold statement, realizing he must have significant influence. She thought for a moment, then smiled mischievously. "So, are you treating me to this meal, or am I treating you?"

Jake raised an eyebrow. "If you're treating?"

Skye beamed. "Then please, let go. The guest follows the host's lead."

Jake grinned widely. "And if I'm treating?"

Skye rested her chin on her hand. "Are you sure you want to?"

Jake nodded. He usually insisted on paying for women, but if Skye's answer wasn't satisfactory, he wouldn't mind letting her pay this time. His policy of not letting women pay was out of respect and chivalry, but he knew Skye wouldn't see it that way.

Skye made a noncommittal sound, then put down her chopsticks and called out loudly, "Boss, one more plate, please!" There was no need to sell herself for a piece of food in this day and age. How absurd.

Jake burst out laughing at Skye's directness. These days, what couldn't money buy? It seemed his first confession had failed - his first failure in life. It both annoyed and amused him, making him even more determined not to give up.

As the restaurant owner approached with the new dish, a sharp screech of tires cut through the air. A beam of light shot around the corner as a modified motorcycle sped towards them.

Skye squinted at the bright light, her brow furrowing. In the glare, the restaurant owner screamed and dropped the plate. The motorcyclist swerved to avoid the owner but the momentum carried him towards Skye.

The rider managed to stop right in front of Skye, their eyes meeting briefly. Skye's frown deepened.

The sound of cars in pursuit grew louder, their headlights appearing around the corner. The motorcyclist quickly righted his motorcycle and sped off, the cars giving chase.

It all happened in an instant. As the area fell back into darkness, the owner's screams still echoing, Jake looked Skye over with concern. "Are you alright? Did that scare you?"

Skye was silent for a moment before standing up. "It's nothing. Let's go, I'm full and tired. I want to sleep."

Jake smiled, remembering Skye's habit of sleeping right after eating. He paid the bill and led her away.

As they walked, Skye followed closely behind Jake. Out of his sight, her brow was deeply furrowed, her right hand clenched tightly around something the motorcyclist had pressed into her palm during their brief encounter.