Chinny's POV
I'm driving my car, heading to Hell Gate Bar, owned by Lucifer, because we're celebrating our friendship anniversary. Those crazy people decided to celebrate it. They scheduled the celebration tonight, and we're going to Rhysand's mansion for a small gathering tomorrow. Finally, I got to use my car.
I glanced at my phone as it started ringing. I immediately put on my Bluetooth headset and answered the call.
"Hello?"
["Girl, where are you now? And why aren't you answering my calls? Gelo's worried and can't sit still."]
It was Astrid calling. Is Angelo worried and can't sit still? He had the nerve to worry about me when our last conversation didn't end well.
What he said hurt, and honestly, the feeling was mutual. He yelled at me, so I decided not to pay him any more attention.
"I'm on my way; I'm driving. See you."
["Okay, girl."]
I hung up and noticed another car trying to overtake me. My brows furrowed as I saw who was inside when he rolled his window down. I cursed under my breath.
It was Dagger Lohmeyer, one of Lucifer's bandmates. Yeah, he's invited since The Heartrender is performing. I remember him clearly. He was one of the most popular guys in college. He's also annoyingly arrogant.
I sped up, and to my annoyance, he matched my speed. He didn't even glance my way. What a jerk.
When I arrived at the venue, Dagger instantly exited his car. Yeah, he's handsome. He exudes something different than normal guys. His face is a striking blend of sharp masculinity and boyish charm, but because of his arrogance, it's infuriating.
"Yo!" he greeted me with a smile as he walked past me.
I bit my lip in frustration. UGH! I hate this! Why did I have to bump into that arrogant guy? I grabbed my pouch and hurriedly walked to get ahead of him.
"Women are a headache and heartache. It's no wonder the men who love them end up leaving," he said loud enough for me to hear. I turned to glare at him in annoyance.
"Are you throwing shade at me?" I asked.
He smirked. "Did it hit a nerve? I didn't mention any names."
What? Does he have the nerve to say that?
"Bad luck," he muttered under his breath.
"I'm even unluckier," I mumbled to myself.
He burst out laughing, which annoyed me even more. He's so insufferable.
He continued walking and then stopped to look back at me. "You're lucky to have Angelo Pimenova, but you keep tearing him apart. Please have mercy on him."
I froze mid-step. "Mercy on him? He should give me the mercy I deserve." I rolled my eyes and crossed my arms.
"Really? Okay."
I marched away from him while he headed to the stage to set up their equipment.
Just as I turned around, I saw Angelo and Jessa hugging. They didn't even notice that I had arrived. Is there something I don't know?
Like I care. Duh!
Angelo's POV
I left Jessa at the table. She's my friendly date for tonight's so-called friendship celebration.
I approached Astrid to ask if Chinny was on her way. We've been here for a while, and she still hasn't arrived. I don't have any ideas; I'm just worried. Jessa is my only temporary date for tonight, but Chinny is on my mind. What if her car broke down or something terrible happened? I haven't texted or called her because she might just ignore me.
"She's on the way," Astrid said. I nodded.
"Thanks." I gave her a small smile and stepped out to wait in the parking lot. I still wasn't convinced by what Astrid said.
We're not on speaking terms. Even at home, we've been ignoring each other. How could we talk when she keeps hurting me and making me feel worthless every day?
"Gelo?" I turned around and saw Jessa looking teary-eyed. My eyes widened, and I immediately went to her.
"Are you waiting for her?" she asked, her voice breaking. I bit my lip.
"Isn't it me who's your date for tonight? Can I get your attention just for now? Please." Tears streamed down her face, and I felt a pang of guilt.
I cupped her cheeks and wiped her tears.
"I'm sorry. Let's go back inside. You have my attention now." I gave her a small smile and pulled her back inside. She hugged me, and I hugged her back tightly—Jessa's like a sister to me, someone who just needs attention.
She sobbed softly, so I held her even tighter. "Stop crying. I'm sorry," I said, trying to comfort her. I felt her nod against me.
"Have mercy on his heart, Monasterio," a familiar male voice teased. I saw Chinny nearby, glaring at a guy on stage holding a guitar and microphone.
"Lohmeyer, you asshole! Stop messing with me!" Chinny yelled. My brows furrowed. I looked at the guy who was annoying her. Dagger Lohmeyer, I remember him as the ruthless lawyer and one of the sought bachelors. Everything about this guy screamed, 'Spread your legs wide.'
Dagger is provoking her. Dagger's one of Lucifer's bandmates, but we're not close. But words spread fast. Dagger knows everything.
It's no surprise that Dagger would taunt Chinny.
"Gelo." Jessa pulled away and looked at me. "How can I take your pain away? Can you even try to love me?" Her words stunned me, and my eyes widened. She's my friend. I only love her as a friend.
"You want me to use you?" I asked, closing my eyes tightly.
She nodded, and I bit my lower lip.
"Jess, I can't use a friend. I've tried dating other girls, but look what happened. It's still her." I bit my lip harder.
It's always her. No matter how many times she hurts me.