Page 71 of The Tattoo Artist

I nod, trying to keep a neutral expression, but inside, there’s a whirlwind of emotions. My parents have always been the pillars of support in my life, and now I can’t help but question everything I thought I knew. I watch as the door slams closed, and I push the cereal away from me. I slide off the stool of the kitchen and grab my bag before heading out, I make my way towards the tattoo shop-tying my hair into a bun.

Catching a bus that stopped right in front of it, I cross the road and head inside. Aliza doesn’t even ask me anymore as I make my way towards the hallway, I reach his door and push it open.

“Hey, I was thinking we could-” I start to say, but my words catch in my throat as I notice three other guys in the same room as Ares. All of them have the same striking green eyes, though their features differ slightly.

“Angel, these are my brothers,” Ares stands up and introduces them, “this is-”

One of the boys’ steps forward, taking my hand in his and pressing his lips against it, “Enchanté, the name is Atlas—the hottest one out of the bunch and the youngest.” His playful demeanour makes me chuckle, but Ares pulls him back, slightly embarrassed.

“Adrian, the oldest,” another brother introduces himself, and I shake his hand while my eyes wander across the room.

“Hang on... I know you,” I whisper, pointing at one of the brothers.

“See, guys? I told you my beautiful face would bring back her memories,” he jokes, shrugging his shoulders. “Yes, it’s me-”

“What do you mean?” Ares asks, confused.

“He was at the club... the night-” My voice trails off, and the realisation hits me. “Adonis, right?” I point at the man.

Ares shoots Adonis a glare, and he chuckles awkwardly. “I mean, it was my club.”

“You were flirting with Catherine, that’s how I know you,” I say, the memory coming back to me.

“Alright now, that’s us leaving.” Adonis grabs onto Atlas’ arm and rushes out of the room, Adrian stands up and stops next to me before he leaves.

“It’s good to see you again Alex.” He offers me a heart-warming smile, as he leaves the room.

Again. That was my first time meeting them but not theirs meeting me. How weird how life works.

Ares approaches me, his presence towering over me, and his arms encircle my waist. I tilt my head back slightly, feeling his lips hovering just above mine. “What’s on today’s agenda?” I ask him softly.

“What did you have in mind?” He replies with a playful tone.

I take a step back, my heart racing with anticipation, and raise my shirt, revealing the red lace bra underneath.

His eyes slightly widen, and a low, seductive chuckle escapes his lips. “Well... a bit of fun,” I whisper.

Without another word, Ares leans in, capturing my lips with his in a passionate kiss. The familiar taste and sensation send shivers down my spine, igniting a fire within me. His hands gently explore my body, making me melt into his touch.

“We’re leaving.” He speaks.

“Where are we going?” He grabs his keys and then throws me over his shoulder, I release a squeal. “Ares!”

“I’ll show you fun Alexandra.”

I would be lying if I didn’t say his house was absolutely gorgeous, I close the door and glance up at the building.

It stood alone, no houses beside it.

Ares’ house was a stunning sight to behold, standing tall and majestic on its own, surrounded by a tranquil and spacious landscape. The two-story building had a contemporary design, with sleek black lined glass windows that perfectly contrasted with the dark brown roof.

As we stepped inside, the modern elegance continued to impress. The spacious living room on the right greeted us with its welcoming ambiance. The dark oak floors added a touch of warmth to the room, and a round coffee table with two white chairs and a cosy dark-coloured couch formed a comfortable sitting area. On the left side, the kitchen caught my eye with its sophisticated charm. The smooth marble countertops gleamed under the soft lighting, and the dark cupboards added a touch of mystery to the space. As I ran my fingers over the cool, polished surface, the black pendant lights suspended gracefully over the central island, their sleek design adding a touch of contemporary elegance.

The island itself was a focal point of the room, spacious enough to accommodate several people, perfect for social gatherings and culinary adventures.

“Wow…your house is…beautiful,” I admit the truth.

I always imagined Ares living in an apartment, small and in a nice area. Not a bloody mansion that is more expensive than words could describe, in the middle of nowhere-with no one around. Not a single house no car passes by the road. The only noises that echo from the open living room window were the birds, and the rustles of trees clashing against one another.

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