Page 40 of The Devil's Fire

“It’s mostly family and friends attending. I wouldn’t worry too much about it.” She smiled before walking off.

I continued my way into the kitchen to grab a bottle of water, already feeling exhausted at the thought of mingling with people I didn’t know for hours. Was it really necessary to have yet another party? I mean, yes, I did ruin their engagement party, but how was I supposed to know that I was supposed to be dead, and not show up? And the dinner party was my uncle’s fault. Hence, why he no longer has his tongue.

The thought of that made me smile.

“Ah, Dario! I was wondering if you could give me a ride. I need a dress for tomorrow’s party.” I asked with a bright smile when I spotted him. He was the only one I dared to ask, since the other men I have seen roaming around intimidated me too much. Besides, Dario seemed pretty chill.

“Sorry, no one is allowed outside the manor.” He gave me a small, apologetic smile.

“Why is no one allowed outside?”

“Boss’s order.”

“Why?” I raised my brows in surprise.

“Can’t say.” He shot me a look, saying I should know not to ask.

“Well, this is an emergency. Would you rather have me walk around naked instead?” I was exaggerating, but if it got me out to a boutique, then I didn’t mind pulling that trick.

Dario looked uncomfortable as he cleared his throat.

“I’m sorry, but an order is an order. I can’t let anyone out. Especially you.”

“What have I done to be grounded?” I asked, completely taken aback. Hell, I was twenty-four, no one could ground me.

Unless it was my mother and her wooden spoon. She would probably still use that on me even when I’m sixty.

“Miss, I can’t tell you. I don’t ask questions and just follow orders.” Dario tried to explain to me once again.

“What a dickhead…” I muttered under my breath. Not low enough though, because Dario’s eyes widened at the comment. “Then call your Boss.”

“Miss, I really can’t do that.” He shook his head, having me cross my arms.

“It’s Althaia.” I corrected him.

“… Althaia, I can’t do that.”

“Why not?”

“He specifically gave orders not to interrupt him unless it’s a life-or-death situation.”

“Well, where is he?” I asked. Dario stared at me blankly, obviously done with this conversation. “Please?”

“He would really have my head if I told anyone.”

I almost gave up, but then a genius idea popped into my head.

“Then give me his number and I will talk to him.” Dario shook his head once again. “I won’t leave you alone until you give me his number. And trust me, I can be even more annoying if I want to be.” I gave him an ‘it will be your hell,’ look.

Dario sighed.

“Fine. But you didn’t get this from me.” He gave in, already wanting to get rid of me.

“Thank you, Dario!” I gave him a big hug, startling him with my actions. “I like you. You’re a good one.” I grinned.

“Don’t say that. You will get me killed…” He muttered and hurried off.

I stared at his retreating form, confused for a split second, but then shrugged it off and made my way to my room.

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