Chapter 1

Halloween.

Her favorite time of the year.

The Cena family was having their famous Halloween party, inviting everyone they knew around the West Newbury area, and everyone was having a wonderful time. Reminiscencing with Carol Cena, Ariella smiled when she started showing her some recipes and shook her head. “You are too much, mom.” She said, causing Carol to grin as she hugged the girl close. Carol had known Ariella since she was ten years old and couldn’t believe she was eighteen already! It only seemed like yesterday that she was showing up at her front door, wanting to learn how to cook and spend time with her son. Ariella had grew up into a beautiful woman with a heart of gold and a smile that lit up any dark room, but something troubled Carol, yet she refused to state her true feelings.

The music suddenly screeched to a halt as the front door was practically tossed open, causing all eyes to meet the individual who stepped through the door. “At ease fellas!” His voice stated, stepping inside the house, and was dressed as a marine for Halloween, standing at attention and saluting people before him, playing the part. He grinned, his blue eyes twinkling, taking in the scene, and couldn’t believe he was finally home as he asked, “Anybody going to tell this poor soldier hello?” Everyone started greeting him, shaking his hand, making him feel welcome at home.

Ariella heard that voice and instantly bit her bottom lip, not expecting him to arrive at the party, and ran a hand through her hair. She was dressed as Belle from Beauty and the Beast, but had decided to leave her long, brown hair down, only having it in a small bun on the top. It cascaded down her back in massive curls that hugged her waist perfectly and took a deep breath before finally turning around to face him, not having seen the guy she used to call her best friend in four years. Carol was still standing beside Ariella as her son came over, scooping her up in a tight embrace, and squealed when he lifted her up from the floor beneath.

“It’s so great to see you again, baby! Your mama can’t handle much more of those hugs though.” Carol greeted warmly, winking back at him, and turned her attention to Ariella, who was trying to hide from him, and knew the reasoning behind it. She excused herself abruptly, making her way through the crowd, and into the kitchen to check on the food she’d prepared for the party that evening.

John watched his mother disappear into the crowd, slowly moving his gaze back to the woman before him, and knew who it was though he couldn’t believe it. “This can’t be little Ariella.” He said finally, breaking the silence between them, and smiled slowly, his eyes moving over her appreciatively. “Last time I seen you kid was…” He ran a hand over his short brown hair and shook his head, knowing it was four years ago. “Damn, it’s been awhile.” Scooping her up into his arms like he did with his mother, John hugged her, not believing how much he’d missed her.

Reluctantly hugging him back, Ariella sighed as she was set down on her feet and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “It has been awhile, John.” She replied, finally finding her voice, and swallowed hard as she stared up into his beautiful ocean blue eyes that captivated her from the first moment she saw him. It was at the tender age of ten and even though she was a little girl, Ariella would never forget that day as long as she lived. “How have you been?”

He felt her reluctance and took a quick step back, his eyes never leaving hers though they were full of polite puzzlement. “I’ve been great. How bout you, Ariella?” He asked, saying her name slowly, letting it roll off his tongue. “You look…gorgeous.” He offered a lopsided smile as he complimented her, truly meaning what he said. The golden dress hugged all of her curves perfectly and John was very appreciative of it.

Ariella smiled weakly back at him in a gesture of friendship, though all she wanted to do was be as far away from him as possible. She breathed out a sigh of relief when a pair of arms wrapped around her waist, knowing it was her boyfriend, and whispered something in her ear. Giggling, Ariella felt her cheeks grow hot and smacked his arm as she chastised playfully, “That’s not appropriate!” Her sweet laughter flowed through the air as she looked back at John, who didn’t look thrilled about this situation, and cleared her throat before speaking again. “Excuse us, John.” They walked away from him as Ariella pulled her boyfriend into a far corner and took his mask off, since he was the dressed as the Beast, and revealed him to be Marc Predka. John’s cousin. John watched in absolute horror as Ariella’s lips touched his, kissing him softly, and watched as they spoke softly before she disappeared onto the veranda for some fresh air.

His frown deepened as John ignored a woman who came dancing up on him, wanting to get to the bottom of this. He ventured into the kitchen, sighing when he actually had to move people out of his way physically to get there, and finally arrived. Leaning against the kitchen doorway, John crossed his arms in front of his chest and greeted solemnly, “Hey mom…” He nicked a small carrot from the tray she was getting ready to lay out for the rest of their guests and asked, “Why didn’t anyone bother to tell me about Marc and Ariella?”

Cringing a little at her son’s question, Carol sighed as she set the can opener down on the counter and looked up into John’s confused blue eyes. “John, Marc and Ariella have been dating for the past two years. If you’d bother calling once in a blue moon then someone might’ve actually told you.” Carol stated, her voice low and quiet, not wanting to get into this argument with her son, even though she loathed the fact that Ariella was with her nephew. “If you want to go talk to her, go talk to her, but don’t throw these questions at me. I don’t have the answers you’re looking for, baby.” She then turned to start fixing another siding that would go with the dinner that evening and didn’t say another word.

John started at his mom, feeling a twinge of guilt at her words, and replied softly, “Mom, I know I don’t call much, but…” He stopped, knowing he’d only give her the same excuses as before, and instead walked over, enveloping her in a tight embrace. “I’m sorry, ma.” He whispered, his head briefly touching hers, and released her. “I’ll leave you to it.” He grinned and quickly nicked another carrot before walking out of the kitchen, his blue eyes narrowing as he looked around, and wondered if Marc and Ariella had come back in yet.

Marc was talking to Dan, one of John’s brothers and his cousin, knowing Ariella needed some space, and chomped on an appetizer his aunt had fixed up as well. Carol was always a great cook in his eyes and that would never change as he chuckled at something Dan said, though on the inside, he was nervous as Hell about John being at this party. Nobody expected him to be there and Marc knew how Ariella still felt about him. ‘She’ll get over him in time and then she’ll be mine completely.’ He thought in disdain, hiding it well as he laughed again, though his blue eyes peered over at John, who was heading for the veranda, where Ariella had gone to get some fresh air.

Almost smiling when John didn’t see Marc with Ariella on the veranda anymore, John walked over as he stood a few feet from her. “Hello.” He greeted softly, letting her now she was no longer alone, his eyes feasting on the way she held herself, and seemed almost too fragile. “Are you alright?” He asked, concern creeping up into his voice and eyes. “You look a little pale.”

“I-I’m fine…” Ariella managed to say in a low tone of voice, never taking her eyes off the scenery, and wondered what John was doing back home. He hadn’t been there in four years and all of a sudden, he showed up and scared Ariella to no avail. She secretly wished she’d declined Carols’ invitation because if she stared into John’s eyes one more time, she was going to completely melt and allow him to hurt her again. That wasn’t going to happen unless it was over her dead body. “I just needed some air.” She quietly said, wrapping her arms around herself, a small chill suddenly in the air, but that was the least of her worries at the moment.

John watched her wrap her arms around herself and quickly pulled off his camouflage jacket. “Here, you look cold.” He commented, draping it over her shoulders, and squeezed her upper arms briefly before stepping away, his own gaze moving to stare at the view. “It’s good to be home.” He said softly, sounding almost wistful. “I never realized how much I missed it until now…” His voice trailed off as he moved into her line of vision, his eyes back on her, and couldn’t believe how beautiful she was.

Biting her bottom lip upon feeling him drape his jacket over her, Ariella slowly took it off and handed it back to him. “I don’t need it.” Her gaze refused to look up into his eyes as one arm was crossed underneath her breasts, hoping someone interrupted them and waited for him to take his jacket back. When he refused, she simply laid it beside him on the veranda balcony before looking back at the scenery again and sighed. “You haven’t been home in a long time. I’m shocked you’re here now.” She softly spoke, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

He didn’t bother reaching for his jacket, his eyes narrowing slightly at her, and didn’t understand why she seemed so cold towards him. “I got tired of being on the road.” He replied, mainly being honest. “Ariella, did I do something to offend you?” John asked bluntly, never one to beat around the bush, deciding to get straight down to the real matter at hand. “If I did, I’m really sorry, but you’re going to have to fill me in cause whatever I did, I didn’t mean.”

The tears instantly filled her eyes, not able to stop them as she refused to look at him, and sighed heavily. “It’s just been a long time, John. Four years is a long time to be away from a person who you claimed was your best friend…” Her voice trailed off as she swallowed past the lump that had formed in her throat, rubbing the goose bumps that created on her arms away with her hands, and willed the tears not to come. “And I’m not a kid anymore.”

John frowned, gently grabbing her wrist, and forced her to look at him, surprised to find a few tears clinging to her lowered lashes. “I know you’re not a kid, Ariella…” He began softly, rubbing his thumb over the inside of her wrist. “If I hurt you when I left, I’m sorry. Things were…different back then…” He hesitated, reaching his free hand out to cup her chin, tilting her head up so she looked at him, and asked, “Forgive me?”

His touch was lighting her blood on fire, making her senses go completely crazy, and Ariella found herself completely mesmerized by him. ‘He hurt you, you fool!! Get away from him!!’ Her mind screamed at her as she bit her bottom lip before slowly backing out of his grasp and gaze. “John, things were different then and they’re even more now.” She informed, needing to get away from him fast before he ended up hurting her again like last time as she took a few deep breaths. Ariella ran a hand through her hair and stared into his blue eyes as her tears dried up in her eyes. “How’s Jessica by the way?” Ariella asked bitterly, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and waited to hear how perfect he thought she was like he did in the past.

Blue eyes narrowed at the mere mention of Jessica as John thought of the woman he had placed on such a high pedestal. “I wouldn’t know.” He said, sounding just as bitter, stuffing his hands in his pockets. “The last time I seen her, she was in my bed with my buddy…” He shrugged, trying not to let on how much being cheated on had bothered him. It had actually been a slight blow to his ego. “Why do you ask?”

Ariella nodded back at him, knowing Jessica would’ve done something to him sooner or later, and shrugged her shoulders. “I was just curious since the last time I saw you, she was your number one priority.” She answered, her voice low and cold, but still held the hurt that hadn’t disappeared ever since that day. “I’m sorry for your loss.” Ariella managed to say, although she was more than thrilled to know that bitch was out of the picture and smiled at him phony, her eyes not holding the same fire and life they once had.

John didn’t miss the tone of her voice and her fake smile definitely didn’t go unnoticed. “You’re not really.” He said flatly, sounding annoyed. “It’s not much of a loss.” He returned her fake smile. “I look at it as a chance to catch something…better.”

“Well good luck with that, John. Best of luck in the world.” Ariella replied vaguely before patting him on the arm and headed back inside, not even wishing him a good evening or anything. She quickly scanned the crowd, trying to find Marc, and finally breathed a sigh of relief when she did. Walking over to him, she wrapped her arms around his waist and kissed his lips softly before whispering something in his ear. The questioning, yet sly smirk adorned his face as he looked down at her, silently asking her if she was sure, and Ariella smiled as she nodded. “Just let me go say good night to Carol and Mr. Cena.” John’s father had the same name as him so he was known as Mr. Cena to her so they didn’t get confused. She winked at him before taking her leave to go find John’s parents, not noticing John had witnessed everything.

Stepping back inside, his cool blue eyes narrowed when he seen Ariella say something to Marc before disappearing. Gritting his teeth, he quickly made his way through the crowd, finally coming at a halt directly in front of his cousin, and said coldly, “Long time no see, man.” John was fighting not to punch Marc right then and there, not wanting to cause a scene, but knew it would happen. He then raised his hand until it was eye level with Marc and flipped him off as he stated, “Next time you see Jessica, give her that from me.”

Marc’s eyes looked at the finger that John had flipped him off with and shook his head, running his hand over his bald head, and cleared his throat. “Dude, you must’ve smoked some grass. I didn’t touch that skank.” He was obviously lying through his teeth because his blue eyes gleamed back at John wickedly, letting him know silently how good of a fuck she was. Immediately sighing, Marc instantly put on the victim act when Ariella approached them and waited until her back was turned before smirking at John again.

“What’s going on?” She questioned, looking up into John’s angry expression and stepped in front of Marc, knowing something was definitely not right with this situation.

John didn’t bother looking at Ariella, his venomous gaze for Marc alone. “Smoked some grass?” He echoed. “Maybe when I first hooked up with her, but you can cut the shit now cuz, I already know you were sleeping with her.” John’s voice grew low and deadly, his icy blue eyes daring Marc to lie one more time. “Now, how bout you come clean, bro.” It wasn’t a request and everyone within earshot knew it.

Ariella heard that and immediately pressed her hands against John’s chest, looking up into his eyes with hurtful ones as she sighed heavily. She knew he was doing this because he was jealous of her and Marc, but that was his own fault. It wasn’t that they would’ve ended up together anyway, but Ariella could dream, couldn’t she? About to shove him away from her and Marc, Ariella stopped when she turned around and stared up into Marc’s eyes, hers pooling with tears, and gasped out in shock when she heard John’s accusations. “W-What?!? You…slept with Jessica?!” Her voice was quivering now along with her entire body as she slowly backed up away from him, standing in between these men, and didn’t know who to believe more.

Sparing a quick glance down at Ariella, John felt pity for her that she had found out this way. His jaw hardened when he seen Marc was about to feed her a line of bullshit and stated heatedly, “I’d make those next words the truth.” He threatened and felt his eyes widen when Marc basically told him to go fuck himself. “Ariella, move!” He ordered, balling up his huge fist, and swung. “You lyin’ little prick!”
Chapter 2

Gasping in shock as her eyes widened, Ariella refused to move as she tried shoving them apart. “Stop it you two!!” She ordered, knowing it wouldn’t do any good, and ducked as the fists of fury began flying back and forth. Ariella tried to plead with them to stop fighting; refusing to move even though Carol was grabbing her arm, and didn’t see the hand coming at her. Stars entered her vision as Ariella was backhanded hard to the floor, across the face, and cried out in pain as her cheek exploded with pain. Her hand immediately cradled it, scooting away on the floor as John tackled Marc to the floor, murmurs and screams beginning to form. Standing up to her feet, Ariella managed to stumble out of the house, holding her cheek, and tears flowed nonstop, not believing what just happened. “Do you honestly hate me that much up there?” She asked to no one in particular and headed for her car.

John didn’t see anything, but Marc, grabbing his cousin by the face, and began punching him in the head. He only stopped when he heard Carol scream that he was going to kill his cousin, shoving himself away. He stared down at Marc, feeling little satisfaction at the sight of his cousin bloodied up, and knew he deserved more than that. John wiped his hands off on his pants, turning to find everyone staring wide eyed at him. He seen his mother shaking her head and frowned, knowing what just happened was out of line, but he couldn’t control his anger. “Ma?” He hesitated when she held up a hand, gesturing to the front door before shaking her head again and backing away. ‘Ariella…’ John thought suddenly, remember she had been between him and Marc. “Fuck!” He exclaimed, darting through the crowd that quickly parted for him and dodged out the front door, calling out her name. “Ariella?”

Wincing a little at the pain that was shooting through her cheek, Ariella sighed heavily when she heard John’s voice behind her and stopped. Her entire body tensed as she clenched her fist tightly at her side, refusing to turn around to acknowledge him. “What do you want, John? Haven’t you caused enough damage for one night?” She asked angrily, not moving an inch, and held her swollen cheek, knowing she was going to have a massive bruise in the morning along with a pounding headache.

“Shit Ariella, I didn’t mean to get you.” John said, sounding truly regretful, reaching out to gently touch her arm. “C’mon, just look at me. You know I’d never hurt you, never.” He moved slightly, getting a quick glimpse of her cheek that wasn’t hidden by her hand. “Damn…Come back inside and let me put some ice on that Ariel, please?”

Shaking her head back at him and finally turning around, Ariella stared into John’s blue eyes with her cold midnight blue orbs, narrowing them dangerously, and crossed her arms in front of her chest. “I can manage just fine by myself, John. I don’t need you or your pathetic excuses! You caused a lot of trouble at your parent’s house tonight when this was supposed to be a celebration of this holiday!” She calmed down a little, trying to regain her train of thought, and winced a little at the pain radiating off her cheek. “Did you kill my boyfriend?” She finally asked.

“No, I didn’t kill the son of a bitch.” John replied just as coldly, feeling rebuffed. “I should’ve, but if cheating dicks are your type then enjoy!” He mock bowed, sweeping his hands toward the house. “I said I was sorry, Ariella now I’m sorry because it’s not just your face that’s going to be hurting.” For a moment, softness crept through his eyes. “By the time everything is all said and done…” His voice trailed off, making a fist and tapped it against his chest, right over his heart. “This will hurt too and that one won’t be from me.”

“What are you talking about, John? I caught some of it in the house and since you obviously want me to know so badly, why don’t you come back over here and tell me why this…” Her voice trailed off, doing the same motion over her heart that he had. “Will hurt along with my cheek.” Ariella was more than confused at the moment, along with frustrated, and ran a hand through her hair.

So many things were running through her mind, so many thoughts, especially with this newfound information, and wondered if John was indeed telling the truth. She’d caught something about Marc screwing Jessica, but that was about it before the fist fight broke out. Her eyes showed John the truth, showed him that she had no unearthly clue what he was talking about, and wanted to know. Cheating dicks weren’t her type, that was for sure, and that’s why Ariella wanted John to finish what he’d started in the house. Only this time, talking would be the only measure taken, nothing more, nothing less.

John sighed heavily, wiping the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand, and wondered how he was going to tell her this. The last thing John wanted to do was hurt her, especially after what transpired tonight, but in this case, he felt he had no alternative. “Jessica wasn’t the kind to just stay in one guy’s bed.” He finally said leaning against a parked car, his head slightly bowed. “She had to be in EVERY guy’s bed…Including Marc’s.” John groaned, running a hand down his face, suddenly looking tired and worn out. “Jessica cheated on me with my cousin, my very own cousin. Though, I sometimes think they were doing each other from the very start…” He looked at Ariella, his eyes shining with regret as they took in her cheek. “Ask him, Ariel. Ask him and when you do, look into his eyes.”

Upon hearing this, Ariella abruptly walked away from John and back into the house, causing everyone to stare at her, but it didn’t bother her a bit. Her focus was on one individual and one alone as she walked over to him, seeing he was favoring his jaw and had ice on it. Her eyes took on compassion as she stroked his cheek with the back of her hand and then shoved him away from her, anger flaring into her eyes. Not saying a word, Ariella snapped her fingers, pointing toward the back door on the patio, and walked away, telling him silently they had to talk. On this night, Ariella was going to find out the truth and if Marc didn’t like, that was tough shit in her eyes.

John slowly followed Ariella back into the house, spotting his mother trying to usher people out without being rude. “All right folks, the party is over!” He announced, his voice carrying throughout the room. “So everyone get their stuff and hit the pavement!” He glanced at his mom, smiling slightly when he seen the grateful look on her face, and asked quietly, “Where are they?”

“Out on the patio.” Carol replied, touching her son’s arm as he started going out there, and shook her head. “They need to be alone right now, dear. Why don’t you come help me clean up a bit?”

Ariella stood outside not even five minutes before Marc joined her, sauntering out, still holding the ice to his jaw, and felt sick to her stomach instantly. “I’m going to ask you one question and I swear to God, if you lie to me, we’re through, understood?” She stated, not looking at him, and had a feeling in the pit of her stomach she wasn’t going to like what she was going to hear.

Marc stared over his girlfriend, pulling the ice away from his jaw, and gingerly felt it. “What? I’m a little sore if you haven’t noticed.” He stated irritated, his eyes roaming over her bruised face. “John do that?”

Ariella sighed heavily as she ran a hand through her hair, waving her hand off at him absentmindedly. “It’s not important. I honestly don’t know if it was you or John and I could care less at this point.” She took a deep breath, tears instantly swelling in her eyes, and stared at him with a hardened expression. “Marc, did you know about the letter? Did you know that bitch took it and put her name on it when I’m the one who wrote it to him?” Her voice was low and calm, not wanting anymore excitement in the Cena household, especially after the fist fight Marc and John were involved in.

Marc blinked, staring at her as his eyes grew hard, and growled. “Ariella, what is this? Of course I didn’t know!” He looked both indignant and hurt at her question. “I get it. John comes home and you’re looking for an excuse to drop me, is that it?”

Staring back at him a little taken aback, Ariella suddenly felt her insides began quaking as she seen the hidden truth in his eyes. “Stop trying to turn this around on me, Marc! I asked you a simple question, especially after what I heard in there, and I deserve to know the truth! Did you fuck her and know what she did with the letter? And this time, try not to lie to me because your eyes give you away every time.” Her voice had turned icy and blunt laced with hidden anger that was begging to be released.

Narrowing his eyes, Marc could hardly believe she was actually talking to him like this, and felt the anger coursing throughout him. John showing up had ruined everything. He shook his head, smiling almost sadly at her, and replied, “Of course I knew about the fucking letter, Ariella. You were fourteen, what the Hell were you gonna do? Wait until you spouted tits and an ass for John to notice you?” He snorted, staring down at her almost as if he pitied her. “Jessica signed her name to the letter, so what? As for me and Jessica, well, sometimes a man just needs a little something extra in his life.” He shrugged, saying it as if it was no big deal. “Deal with it.”

Tears instantly sprang to her eyes as she glared at him, not believing what she just hard, and tried to swallow them back. Her entire body was trembling as she stared at him, her eyes becoming iced over with pain and heartache and whispered, “I can’t believe you did that.” She crossed her arms in front of her chest and shook her head in disbelief at him. “I hope it was worth it, Marc. I hope you enjoyed pounding her and trying to hide the letter from me because it’s over between us. I hate you for what you’ve done and said to me tonight and I NEVER want to see you again!” She shouted, starting to head inside, and not able to stare him in the face at the moment. Her tears were burning in her eyes as they threatened to spill down her cheeks, hoping they would stay in until she was out of this monster’s vision.

“Bitch, get back here!” Marc ordered, grabbing her hand, and squeezed, jerking her back so she tumbled across the bench, landing in the grass. “One, don’t you EVER walk away from me again.” He said coldly, slowly approaching her. “Two, I’ll say when it’s over, you got that?” When she didn’t reply, he kneeled down over her and slapped her face, making sure to get the already bruised side. “DO YOU GOT THAT?”

A loud screech sounded from her lips as she held her face with her hand, cowering away from him as the tears slid freely down her cheeks, not believing he just struck her. “DON’T TOUCH ME!” She shrieked, trying to scramble up to her feet, never turning her back to him, and didn’t care if her costume had permanent grass stains on it now. The evil intentions she witnessed in Marc’s eyes caused Ariella to suddenly fear for her life, but she wasn’t about to back down from him. She’d never backed down from anyone in her life, besides John, but that was for her own reasons. “Stay the fuck away from me!”

Marc glanced back at the house, not too eager to face John again, and glared down at her spitefully. “Shut the fuck up!” He ordered, clamping a hand over her mouth. When she bit him, he cursed angrily, hauling off, and punched her. The blow landed sloppy and ended up splitting open her cheekbone. “Fuck...” He shook his hand, not believing how hard her face was. “Scream one more time, Ariella and I’m knocking out your teeth.” He threatened dangerously, meaning every word that came out of his mouth.

Ariella cried out harder in pain when he punched her and kicked him in the stomach, crawling away from him. She had to get as far away from him as possible as she held her face, screaming out in fright when he grabbed her ankle. “No!! Get off of me!!” She screamed, not caring if he knocked her teeth out, and looked up into his dangerous blue eyes as she continued kicking. “I hate you!!”

Cursing, Marc pulled her back toward him by the ankle, and hissed, “You fucking little bitch!” He glanced over his shoulder, half expecting somebody to hear them. “After all I’ve done for you!” Marc had to shut her up somehow and brought the point of his elbow down into her stomach hard, knowing it would knock the breath right out of her.

A groan sounded from her mouth that was made out of sheer pain as she doubled over, curling up in a tight ball, and held her abdomen close to her, coughing out to try and breathe. She couldn’t even breathe as her eyes squeezed tightly shut, ready for the next blow to come, and managed to rasp out, “Stop it…”

“Mom…I know I heard something” John said, dropping the trash bag, and headed for the patio doors. He’d kept telling Carol he’d heard screaming, but she just assumed it was a figment of his imagination. John decided to go check it out, hoping it wasn’t Ariella, and frowned as he peered out. The automatic security lights came on, but didn’t give off much light as he walked out onto the patio, surveying the area. His blue eyes widened in shock and anger at what he saw once he looked over the patio ledge.

Ready to deliver another blow to her, Marc yelped as he was suddenly jerked backwards, literally flying through the air until he collided with a tree, groaning in pain. “John…” He began slowly, trying to stand up then thinking better of it when a wave of dizziness engulfed him. “Man, you don’t know what’s going on here so stay out of this!”

John glared down at his cousin, sorely tempted to beat the living shit out of him, but he knew Ariella needed his attention more. “Hey Ariel.” He softly spoke, kneeling down besides her, frowning when he seen she was having problems getting her breath. “Come on kid, breathe.” He urged, pulling her up into a sitting position.

Coughing out more, Ariella managed to sit up with John’s help, wheezing a bit, and winced at the pain that exploded throughout her abdomen. She looked up into his blue eyes, seeing all the concern swimming through them, and burst out crying as she leaned back against the tree, hyperventilating now. Marc had never hit her, at least not in public, only when they were alone. Ariella wanted so badly to tell John what happened, but according to her busted cheek, which was cut and had blood slowly leaking from it, that was all John had to witness as she coughed more. “I’m…trying…” She whimpered out in a whisper, hearing John’s words of encouragement, but it wasn’t happening as she winced more. Nothing in her entire life had hurt so much than getting the breath knocked out of her, not even being decked in the face.

John nodded grimly, standing up and gently pulling her into his arms, scooping her up so her head was rested against his shoulder. “Let’s get you to the hospital then.” He said, making sure to kick Marc as he passed. Once inside, John stared at his mother with concern and anger etched in his features as he stated, “Mom, you need to kill your nephew.”
Chapter 3

The word hospital echoed out of John’s mouth and immediately caused Ariella to shake her head, refusing to go there, and wiggled out of John’s grasp. That move caused her body to spill out of his arms and landed on the hard wooden floor, groaning out in more pain. She coughed a little more as she held her abdomen, gasping out, “No…No hospital…” Even though she knew she had to go, Ariella flat out refused to go there, having been injured worse than this at the hands of Marc. With a few more deep breaths, Ariella finally managed to find her voice again as Carol stared down at her with widened eyes. “Please, I’m alright…” Ariella assured her voice meek and quiet, not wanting to get Marc in trouble, even though he had struck and abused her.

John frowned, bending down to scoop her up again, and argued back, “Ariella, you have to go get checked out.” His words were firm and glanced out the doors, seeing Marc limping off the property, and guessed he was the reasoning why she didn’t want to go. “Look, you don’t have to tell them about him; just let them check you out, alright?” He wanted the personal pleasure of dealing with that little prick himself. “You’re going.” He stated in a final tone and reached out to scoop his car keys off a stand while balancing her in his arms.

“No!!” She shouted defiantly, surprising both Carol and John as he released her again, causing her to stumble out of his arms, and shook her head. She winced as another pain exploded throughout her abdomen, staring up at him with pain filled, rebellious eyes. “I’m not going to the hospital and that’s final. I just…I need to sit down for a minute. Just a minute…” Ariella managed to make it over to the couch and plopped down on it, wincing as she cried out in pain, and knew she probably had a busted rib. This wasn’t the first time Marc had put his hands on her in a vicious way, but now that John as back in her life, Ariella finally found the desire to actually want to be away from him.

Running a hand through his hair, John exhaled sharply, and knew she was going to be stubborn about this. “Fine.” He watched as Carol disappeared into the kitchen, probably retrieving the first aid kit. Without saying another word, he dropped down in front of her and demanded, “Do you have anything on under this costume?” Not meaning to be harsh with her, John was frustrated, knowing Marc had probably done a serious number on her.

Looking down at him, seeing the anger mixed with concern for her, Ariella winced and sighed heavily. “I’m fine, John don’t worry. I don’t have anything under this dress except the normal.” She responded in a low voice, running a hand through her hair, and winced when another shot of pain zipped throughout her abdomen, causing her to bite back a cry.

That was enough for John to stand her up on her feet and grabbed the front of her dress. It tore easily under his strong hands and felt his blue eyes narrow when he seen her. “Holy fuck…” He whispered in disbelief. “Ariel…” John looked at her, frowning when he seen the pain etched on her face, and it was for good reason too.

Black and blue bruises covered her body from head to toe, with the exception of her arms, along with little cuts and lacerations, causing her to wince more as her eyes squeezed shut. The closer John looked, he seen the strap marks from a belt of some kind he’d guessed, causing Ariella to cower back from him with fear in her eyes. “Please, don’t kill him.” She whispered, trying to cover up her body the best she could, but knew it was no use. “I broke up with him and that’s why he…hit me.”

John ignored the shrill scream that escaped his mother when she walked back out, a box of things in her hands. “Why didn’t you say anything to anyone?” He demanded angrily, grabbing a box and going through it, finally setting aside some ace bandages. He had seen the fear in her eyes and that only upset him even more, though his anger wasn’t at her, it was at Marc. “Hold still honey, this is going to hurt.” He warned softly, firmly feeling her stomach and ribs, inhaling sharply when he felt old welts under his fingertips. “Christ Ariel…” He murmured, still in disbelief that his cousin was capable of doing this to a woman.

Ariella bit her bottom lip harshly, hoping she didn’t split it open, and squeezed her eyes shut as she tried pushing him away, but knew it was no use. “I thought he’d stop, that it was just a phase he was going through.” She whispered, feeling completely stupid because she’d lied to John’s face. There was no way she could tell him the truth because she didn’t want him to know about the letter. “I’m okay…” She whispered out, hissing at the pain, and started scooting away from him when he began examining the rest of her body. “Don’t…”

Ignoring her, John pulled her back towards him, deftly winding the ace bandages around her ribs, taking the pin Carol held out to him to secure it. “You’re really okay.” He said coldly in a sarcastic manner. “Don’t make excuses for that bastard, Ariella, they’re not working. Mom, I’ll be back.” John stated, turning and stomped out of the house, slamming the door shut behind him.

Her eyes widened at John’s words as she looked up at Carol, filling with fright, and immediately began shivering. “Do you have anything I could wear?” She asked softly, not wanting to be out in the open in just her bra and panties with her battered body.

Even though Marc had abused her on more than one occasion, he’d never tried to have sex with her, which was odd. Then again, Ariella would’ve died before giving up her virginity to him, especially when she never loved him to begin with. It was true, she’d been with Marc for two years, but they hadn’t had sex, foreplay yes, but not sex. She refused it, especially with the way he treated her, but Ariella felt that Marc was the best she could do after John left her four years ago. ‘I can’t tell him ever.’ She thought miserably and winced as she placed her hand on her taped ribs.

Carol nodded, not able to say anything, and ran a hand through her hair before venturing upstairs to get Ariella some clothes. In the meantime, Ariella reached over and covered herself up with a blanket, wrapping it around herself, and began to silently cry. She knew John was probably beating Marc within an inch of his life at the moment and hated him for doing it. ‘God, why did he have to show up and ruin everything?’ She thought sadly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, and winced a little at the pain that racked throughout her body.

He was grateful for the coldness, though it did nothing to cool his anger. John was pissed at himself as well for not being there to protect her, the person he called his best friend. His blue eyes narrowed evilly when he seen Marc leaning against his car, not too far down the street, apparently still too dizzy to drive.

Marc looked up when he heard footsteps and glared upon seeing his cousin storming up to him. “Man, back off.” He ordered, holding out a hand, the other reaching for his cell phone that was clipped to his jeans. “You’re not too famous to go to jail, John.”

John ignored that and grabbed Marc by the throat with both hands, lifting him off the ground and growled viciously in his face. “If you EVER go near her again, if you even call her, I’m going to beat the living Hell out of you, you got that?” He squeezed for emphasis and smiled grimly when Marc nodded. “Good.” Slamming Marc’s body down on the hood of the car, John stalked away, leaving his cousin to groan out in more pain. Stepping inside the house a few minutes later, John felt a lot calmer after that confrontation with his cousin. He still felt like punching the shit out of Marc, but knew that wouldn’t solve anything, settling for threats for now. “How are you feeling now?” He asked, looking across the room at Ariella, shoving his hands into the pockets of his marine uniform.

“Better now that I’m covered up.” She stated harshly, glaring over at him, and tightened the blanket around her further. “What did you do, John? Kill him and hide the body?” Ariella sarcastically asked, rolling her eyes for emphasis, and adverted her gaze to the floor below.

He bit back a retort, sinking down into a chair, and replied mockingly, “No, I didn’t kill him. Though I probably should have. I barely touched him if it makes you feel better.” His blue eyes narrowed, not believing Ariella was worried about that scumbag. “How can you even care after what he did to you, Ariel? What the Hell is even going through your mind?”

Glaring over at him, Ariella bit her tongue, knowing she was going to say something she’d regret later. His words had really pierced her heart and she felt the anger welling up inside her body instantly. “We all make mistakes, don’t we John?” She retorted, staring at him just as coldly, and Carol took that opportunity to walk down the stairs, handing her some clothes. Ariella smiled graciously at her before slowly standing up and walked into the bathroom. That steely gaze fixated on John the entire time until she slammed the door shut harshly behind her.

“Screw this.” John muttered, standing up from the chair. He stared at his mother, not surprised by the suspicious look on her face. “Yes I started it.” He said before disappearing up the stairs, slamming the door of his old room shut behind him. “Damn!” His voice boomed off the walls of his bedroom, pacing the floor, and ignored the rattling of the light fixture above.

After she was dressed in a pair of blue jeans and a long sleeved blue shirt that she’d left at the Cena residence, Ariella looked in the mirror. The tears of pain shined in her eyes as her heart shattered, not meaning what she said, but she couldn’t help it. John had really hurt her from what he said and she wanted him to feel as much pain as he’d caused her to feel four years ago. “I’m not a little kid anymore.” She whispered, wiping a few stray tears from her eyes, and walked out of the bathroom, stopping at the look on Carol’s face. “I’m sorry about tonight.” Ariella softly apologized, trying to keep the tears in her eyes, and winced. “I’m gonna head home, thank you for a wonderful evening, Carol.” She hugged her, surprised at the tight grip the woman put on her, and sighed, knowing she was worried.

John finally stopped pacing; realizing nothing was going to be right between him and Ariella unless one of them made the first move. Groaning, he headed back downstairs, halting when he heard Ariella say she was leaving. “I’ll drive you.” He stated softly, staring at her, his expression carefully neutral. “I’m sure it’d make mom feel better if you didn’t drive.”

Deciding not to argue with him for once, knowing he was right about Carol being worried, Ariella hugged her one more time and whispered, “I’m fine, don’t worry about me.” She them smiled just to show Carol what she meant was true and headed out the door, not even waiting for John to follow. The pain radiated throughout her body with every move she took, and sighed heavily, staring up at the stars. She was thankful when she didn’t see Marc lurking around anywhere and wondered what had happened to him. ‘I honestly don’t care anymore.’ Ariella thought and wrapped her arms around herself, not believing how messed up her life had become.

Falling in step behind her, John didn’t say a word as they crossed the street to her car. He took the keys she held out to him before helping her into the car, ignoring the irritated look she shot him. “Damn…” He muttered when he slid into the driver’s side, having to scoot the seat back, still feeling cramped. “So…” John began, starting the ignition, and pulled away from the curb. “Where are you living now or still the same place?”

Staring back at him with an icy glare, Ariella raked a hand through her hair and retorted, “I don’t live with my parents anymore, John. I live on the other side of town in an apartment.” Ariella responded, running a hand through her hair, and stared out the window, her arm holding her abdomen since the pain was excruciating.

John ignored her tone, reaching for the radio dial and turning it on, frowning when some type of music he definitely did not listen to came out of the speakers. He quickly fiddled with the knob, finally finding a station he could handle, and asked quietly while trying to keep the peace, “You don’t live with Marc, do you?”

“No, your royal highness, I don’t.” She shot back, refusing to look at him, and reached over, turning the radio off harshly. Ariella winced more as she bent forward more, knowing this was going to hurt, and proceeded to cough, thanking the stars when no blood showed on her hand. “Good it’s not as bad as before.” She muttered before leaning back, breathing heavily, and squeezed her eyes shut, trying to get her breathing to calm down. “Turn left here.”

Completely ignoring her, John took a right, not paying not attention to her orders to turn around. He finally pulled off into a nearby park, pulling into the parking spot, and cut the ignition on it. Unfastening his seatbelt so he could turn to face, John demanded, reaching over to lightly touch her hand, “Ariella, other than being an asshole tonight, what else has got you pissed off at me?”

Shaking her head in response, Ariella refused to do this as he parked them in a parking lot, just outside a kid park, and sighed heavily. She immediately ripped her hand from his touch, not wanting to feel him anywhere on her body, and scoffed at her question. “If you haven’t figured it out by now, John, you’re dumber than I thought you were.” Her tone was low and soft, not having the strength to yell at him at the moment as she winced a little more.

“Well excuse me for not trying to figure out what goes on in that seriously fucked up mind of yours, Ariella.” John snapped. “I’ve been wondering all damn night what’s crawled up your ass and died, and instead of filling me in, you’re acting like a stuck up bitch!”

Tears began slowly sliding down her cheeks as she looked over at him, not believing what he just said to her, and immediately opened the car door. She yelped out in pain when he pulled her backing and turned her around to face him, staring up into his confused eyes, and shoved him away from her. “You really wanna know, John? You REALLY want to know why I can’t stand the sight of you right now!?” Her voice was rising with every word that came from her mouth and knew she was about to spill the beans, no matter if he liked it or not.
Chapter 4

John grabbed her arms, forcing her to hold still, moving across the seat, ignoring the discomfort it brought in order to pull her against him a little bit. He was unable to mask the hurt her words caused him as he softly said, “Yes Ariella, I would like to know why. Why you can’t stand the sight of me.” His voice was filled with heartache and pain, but he didn’t care at the moment as he stared into her eyes.

Looking up into his eyes, Ariella began to cry as she pulled away from him, not wanting him to touch her right now. Once she broke free from him, her eyes adverted to the floorboard of her car as she asked in a low voice, “What if I were to tell you that the letter Jessica gave you was false?” Her eyes shut tightly, hoping he didn’t accuse her of lying to him about what she was going to say.

He stared at her thoughtfully for a minute. “I wouldn’t put anything past that bitch.” John said honestly, then in a gentle, pressing voice, he asked, “Why is it false, Ariel?” Suddenly, it was almost as if the light bulb clicked on in his brain as his eyes widened, feeling his mouth go dry, and stared at in shock. “You…You wrote it…didn’t you?”

Bursting out in tears, Ariella could only nod as she held her stomach, her entire body racking with heart wrenching sobs, and tried to breathe. Her heart was pounding so hard in her chest that she thought it was going to fly out at any given moment and land on the dashboard in front of her. Ariella couldn’t believe he’d actually guessed it and sighed heavily, running her hands down her face, ridding the tears away, and sniffled. She honestly didn’t know what to say to him and needed some fresh air as she opened the car door and stepped out; slamming it shut behind her, and closed her eyes as the night breeze blew through her black hair.

John gave her about a minute alone before getting out of the car as well, walking over to her, needing to talk to her about this. “Ariel, I’m sorry.” He said sounding truly regretful and still couldn’t believe she wrote something THAT meaningful and heartfelt. “If I would’ve known…” He reached out to gently cup her chin, making her look at him, not able to find the words he wanted to tell her. “Hey, come on now, even if it is four years too late, knowing that letter was written by you…” His words trailed off again, trying to find the right ones to say, but knew deep down, there were none. “Forgive me, Ariel?”

Slowly stepping away from him and wrapping her arms around herself, Ariella let out an incredulous laugh and sighed, “You expect me to forgive you just like that, John? It might’ve not been your fault, but you totally disregarded my feelings about her! You didn’t even say goodbye and every time I tried to warn you about her, you just blew me off, calling me a “little kid.” I was never going to tell you about that letter, but you kept pushing and pushing. I can’t forgive you just like, John not after you professed your love to her in front of me and your entire family at that barbeque four years ago.” Ariella explained, stating her true feelings about the situation, and raked a hand through her hair. Her voice was low and quiet, refusing to raise it, not wanting to crack another rib.

“Ariella, you were fourteen!” John said exasperatedly. “Back then to me, you WERE a kid! You were a smart, mature kid, even my best friend, but I never thought of you that way until…” He stopped, shaking his head, and knew it wouldn’t do any good. “Never mind, let me take you home, then I’ll call a cab and you won’t see me again, will that make you feel better?” Complete defeat was evident in his eyes and body language as he stared at this woman, still shocked that it was her who wrote the letter.

“No, it wouldn’t make me feel better, John! You don’t even have the slightest clue how much I want to just hug you and get back to the way things used to be, but it will never be the same. I was in love with you back then, even if I was fourteen. We’re ten years apart so it wouldn’t have mattered would it, John? Now that I’ve sprouted tits and a pussy, you actually find me attractive now, don’t you?” Ariella hadn’t meant to use Marc’s words against John, but in all honestly, he’d been right about it. Her voice was cold along with the rest of her body and couldn’t believe what John had just said to her. “Just take me home, John. I’m tired, injured, and the last thing I want to deal with is the fuckin’ past right now.”

John groaned, not wanting to take her home, especially with how angry she was at him for something that was completely out of his control. “No Ariella, we’re dealing with this now. Yes, I’ll say it, you’re a damn good looking woman, but that’s not what made me notice you! Don’t YOU get it? I fell in love with the person who wrote that letter!” John stepped away from her, looking out over the park, staring at the swings. “I fell in love with the person who wrote that letter…” He repeated, this time in a softer voice. “If you would’ve only said something…” John shrugged, turning cool blue eyes onto her, a poker expression adorning his face. “But you want me to take you home, that’s fine.” He walked over to open her door for her and rolled his eyes as he icily added, “Lord knows you don’t want to be around a guy who’s in it for the tits and pussy, right?” Those words had really stung him to the core, not believing Ariella thought that low of him, and knew she wouldn’t listen to reason.

Staring back at him, Ariella’s eyes slowly softened a little as she sighed heavily, the tears spilling down her cheeks, and sniffled a little. “You just told me I was fourteen and a kid in your eyes back then, John. What difference would it have made had you known the letter was from me back then to now? Would you have said the same thing to me that you did to Jessica if you knew the letter was from me?” She asked, needing to know the answer these questions, no matter what his answer would be. It had been four years and it’d been brewing in her mind ever since that day at his parent’s house when he broke her heart into a million pieces. Now that the time had finally come, Ariella wasn’t going to pass it up for a second as she stared at him, waiting for his answer, forgetting about the pain her body was racked with for a moment.

“If I would’ve known that letter came from you, I would’ve looked at you the way I am now.” John softly answered, running a hand through his short brown hair. “Just knowing would’ve made all the difference in the world to me, Ariella. I told you, I fell in love with the person who wrote that letter.” He reminded her, his voice soft, and the look on his face gave off a boyish and vulnerable expression.

Shaking her head, Ariella stared back at him with heart broken eyes. “I didn’t ask you how you felt, John. I asked you if you would’ve said the same thing to me that you did to Jessica.” She wasn’t falling for his blue puppy dog eyes, though they were almost irresistible to her. Almost. Even though she’d been fourteen, that didn’t stop her heart from shattering in her chest as she stared at him with the same look she had four years ago.

“Announced my undying love and total devotion before my family and friends?” John asked, arching an eyebrow. “No, if I would’ve known it was you, I would’ve probably done things a little differently, like some place a bit more…us…for one. Like here…” He gestured around them, his hands at his sides, and smiled at the memories of them playing at this park flowed throughout his mind. “Remember how we used to come here all the time?”

Ariella looked around and smiled a little, remembering all the times her and John had came here just to escape their lives for a few hours. It all ended though when Jessica came into the picture and stole him away from her, which caused Ariella to grow jealous. She wasn’t going to deny it and once the bitch had threatened her to stay away from John, Ariella should’ve taken it to heart instead of blowing her off. Hearing what John said now, Ariella shook her head, not liking his answer, but had to accept it. “Yeah, I remember. Why would it have to be secluded? It wasn’t secluded with Jessica, John. You didn’t have a problem doing it in front of your ENTIRE family then. Would it be because of my age?” She questioned and pointed out, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and stared at him with a stoned face.

“No.” He replied honestly. “It’s because you’re different. Jessica always liked to be the center of attention. I did it at the barbeque because I figured that’d just be…”John frowned, realizing he was about to sound like a dog, but also knew it was the honest to god truth. “Be like cementing the deal, you know? I thought I wanted her and I knew making her the star attraction was a good step towards getting her. You’re not like that, you never have been.” He sighed, his shoulders slumping, feeling defeated already. “If things would’ve been different, I’d of brought you here because I know, back then at least, this would’ve been the place. We were always happy here, it would’ve…just been the perfect place.” John echoed, unable to look at her, not wanting to see the anger in her eyes anymore for him.

“Just say what you really mean, John. You would’ve done it because I was a fourteen year old kid who used to hang around you and hang on your every word.” Her voice was still the same low, cold tone, but her eyes had softened considerably. She winced when a shot of pain split through her side and ignored it, staring back at him and shook her head, sighing heavily, feeling completely helpless at the time. “I didn’t want to tell you about it, John, ever. That’s why I went with Marc. He was there for me and picked up the pieces you left behind. I was a complete wreck, heart broken, miserable, and he came along and took advantage of my vulnerability. I was naïve and stupid and allowed him to hurt me, but it didn’t hurt half as much as my heart shattering when I heard you profess your love to her right in front of me while she was holding the letter that I wrote you.”

“I am saying what I mean.” John replied, not feeling even an ounce of anger, just a silent acceptance of defeat. “You didn’t want to tell me. Then what right do you have to be hurt? If you knew she didn’t write that letter, you should’ve said something instead of letting me believe she did. You’re much to blame for your heart being broken just as I am.” He stated, opening the car door for her again.

“You wouldn’t have believed me John!! You would’ve accused me of being jealous, like you did all the fucking time!! You would’ve called me a kid and told me to go home to my mommy and daddy and leave you and Jessica alone!! Don’t give me that shit, John!! I knew what you were then and that was nothing, but a lowlife prick that didn’t care about anything, but your happiness!! Don’t you dare stand here and tell me that I’m partially to blame for this whole thing when YOU wouldn’t even listen to my warnings about her in the first damn place!!” Ariella snapped, shouting at him now, and pointed at him fiercely. Her heart quenched with need to be in his arms and to also rip his heart out of his chest.

John’s jaw stiffened, his blue eyes hardening, and retorted angrily, “Whatever you say, Ariella. Play this out like a drama queen if you want. I’m not going to stand here anymore and listen to go on about the past when you have the present right here in your damned face!!” He grabbed her hand, pulling it to rest over his heart, and continued, “That is my heart, now we’re even because you just broke it. You haven’t changed either…You still won’t grow up. Get in the car.” His tone of voice was low and even, refusing to argue with her anymore.

Ariella knew he was playing the guilt trip on him as she heard the low tone of his voice and knew they were finished with this conversation. She reluctantly stepped inside the car, buckling her seatbelt, and stared out the window, refusing to look at him. Her body was so close to the door, if the door popped open suddenly, she would fall out and land on the hard pavement with a sickening thud. Not that Ariella would’ve minded it happening, but at the same time, she didn’t feel like nursing more injuries. She rolled down the window, allowing the cool night air to blow through her hair while silent tears streaked down her cheeks freely, not caring if John saw them or not anymore.

John was more than aware of her tears, but didn’t say anything, just drove, watching for her little hand signals on where to turn. He knew no matter what he said, she’d never believe him. ‘Forget it, John.’ He kept telling himself. ‘You’re a decade older than her; she’s got to grow up and…’ He sighed, knowing none of that really mattered, but he was just so damned angry with her right now. “Do you need help upstairs?” He asked politely when they were parked outside of her apartment building.

Ariella didn’t answer him as she stepped out of the car and slammed the door harshly behind her, wincing as the pain started to become more violent. She stopped for a few moments to catch her breath before starting again, not wanting anything from him anymore. She didn’t say a word to him as she headed up the stairs to her apartment, holding onto the rail, and finally managed to make it up. Ariella sighed when she’d realized John still had her keys and crossed her arms, staring down at him knowingly, and waited for him to walk them up to her. There was no way she was going back downstairs to retrieve them, especially with how much pain she was in.

‘He’s such an asshole. HE’S the one who has growing up to do, not me.’ She thought angrily, refusing to speak one word to him, especially after how harsh of a conversation they’d had at the park.

Narrowing his eyes when he seen her body trembling with pain, John instantly got out of the car and followed her into the building, seeing she was still outside, and picked her up in his arms. “You really should have let me take you to the hospital.” He said gruffly, starting up the stairs, ignoring the looks they received from the few residents who were out and about. “Which apartment is it?”

Not having the energy to fight him any longer, Ariella simply pointed up as he walked up another flight of stairs and finally set her down in front of number 296, causing her to sigh in relief. “This isn’t the worst pain I’ve been in, John, trust me.” She softly stated, taking the keys from his hand, and unlocked the door, walking in, and slammed it behind her, not caring if he entered her apartment or not. She immediately walked into the living room and plopped down on the couch, crying out in pain at the movement, and silently cursed herself. “Damn!” Ariella glared over at him, seeing him admiring her apartment, which wasn’t the best, and rolled her eyes. “Do you need the phone to call a cab?”

“No, I’ll walk.” John answered, glancing down at her. “If you need anything, call. You can talk to mom if you don’t want to…to talk to me.” He cleared his throat, studying her for a moment, and wished they could get back to the way things used to be. “Ariella, I could get a private physician to come look at you…” He pleaded softly, his voice trailing off, worry and concern etched in his features.

“I don’t need it, John.” She breathed out, coughing a little, and managed to sit up, holding her side with her hand. “Trust me; he’s done more damage than this before.” She raked a hand through her hair as she sighed heavily and picked the phone up, handing it to him. “No, I don’t want you to walk. It’s clear across town, just call a cab.” Her eyes pleaded with him not to walk, not trusting this part of town this time of night, and winced as another pain shot through her abdomen.

“I’ll call a cab…” John said slowly, taking the phone and setting it down, watching her facial expressions, knowing she was in some serious pain. “If you let me send for a doctor.”

Glaring up at him with a frown, Ariella crossed her arms in front of her chest stubbornly and shook her head. “No, I’m not compromising anything. If you don’t want to call a damned cab, I will.” She threatened, slowly standing up from the couch, and walked into the kitchen to grab some extra strength Tylenol, hoping to dull the pain a little bit.

John had enough of this and shrugged, not believing how cold she was being toward him. “See you in another four years, Ariel. Call my mom and let her know I’ll be home late and tell her…you’re fine.” He looked like he would choke on that last part before walking out, closing the door quietly behind him, his footsteps echoing throughout the hallway as he thudded down the stairs.

Shaking her head, Ariella lowered her head as her eyes closed, popping two Tylenol in her mouth, and swallowed them down with water. “See you later, John.” She whispered, her voice full of regret and sadness as she walked into her bedroom, slamming the door behind her, and proceeded to collapse on the bed, crying herself to sleep.
Chapter 5

“I don’t know, Carol…” Ariella hesitated, running a hand through her hair, and winced as the pain racked her body more, though it wasn’t as bad as the night before. When she heard Carol’s pleading voice, she couldn’t refuse as she caved in. “Alright, fine I’ll be there. I’ll even make my famous salad just for you, mom.” She smiled upon hearing Carol’s sigh of relief over the receiver and knew this wasn’t going to bode well with John. They ended the call after a few more minutes, and Ariella went about her business, hoping that next Saturday wouldn’t come too soon.

John woke up with a headache, frowning when he realized he was sleeping on his mom’s too small couch. Groaning, he stood up, trying to shake out the stiffness. He froze when he heard his mom on the phone, realizing it was Ariella, and sighed. John rubbed the back of his neck before disappearing upstairs to get a shower, trying not to think about the night before. It’d been horrible, simply horrible, and John didn’t sleep at all, worrying about her, hoping she was alright with the amount of pain she was in.

When John came down the stairs, he found a note waiting for him:

Dear John,

Went to the store.
BBQ on Saturday.
Ariella will be there so get over yourself.

Love, Mom

He read it aloud, crumpling the note in his fist, and squeezed tightly. “Great, one week off and I get to spend it getting over myself. Just great.” John muttered, stalking outside, and stuffed his hands in his jean pockets before heading off towards the park, needing to think.

Saturday arrived sooner than Ariella would’ve liked as she sighed heavily, looking in the mirror, and decided to wear a pair of jeans with a long sleeved red shirt. It was going to be in the mid sixties that day so she wanted to be dressed for the weather. Sighing heavily, she finished putting the makeup on that covered face; glad her ribs were just bruised, and ran a hand down her face in frustration. “I have no choice. I have to go, but I’ll just ignore him.” She whispered, grabbing her salad, keys, and purse before heading down to her car. Turning the ignition of the car on, Ariella was soon on her way over to the Cena residence.

John was manning the grill, wearing denim jean shorts, a white beater and a Kiss the Cook apron his father always wore when he cooked out. He eyed the steaks, wondering if maybe they hadn’t marinated too long, shrugging and took a swallow of his beer. He nodded to some people before spotting Ariella’s car pulling up. “Get over yourself.” His mother’s note replayed in his mind, causing him to whisper it out, and had been Carol’s favorite phrase that week.

Ariella sighed as she pulled up to the house, looking at it apprehensively, but knew she couldn’t let Carol down. With a deep breath, she climbed out of the car and walked toward the backyard. Seeing John’s brothers in a game of traditional football, one of the Cena’s favorites, and Ariella shook her head as she walked up the patio steps. A smile adorned her face as she carried the salad over to Carol, hugging her, and thanked her for the invite before taking her salad over to the food table. After that, she snatched a little carrot from the tray, dipping it in the ranch sauce, and walked back over to sit down beside Carol, her usual spot, the sun shining beautifully down on them.

John frowned when one of his old buddies came up to him, telling him to go enjoy himself. Reluctantly, he handed over the apron, not sure if he wanted to mingle just yet, his eyes fastening on Ariella. He grinned when his brother tossed him the football, grateful for something to distract him. He literally tossed himself into the game, trying to keep from glancing over at Ariella, almost feeling like he was showing off for her. All he wanted was a chance, just one chance to prove to her he truly loved her, and hoped she gave it to him soon.

Laughing at something Carol was telling her, Ariella smiled with John SR walked out onto the patio. He hadn’t seen him in the past few weeks and knew he’d been over at his mother’s helping her out with things. She stood up, hugging him, and thanked him for the invite before sitting back down, chomping on chips. Her eyes fastened on the game, cringing every time someone got clobbered to the ground. Though John’s sweaty chest didn’t miss her eyesight either. ‘Just stop it already!’ Ariella berated herself silently and stood up to walk into the house to get more chips…and to cool down.

Becoming distracted when he seen Ariella walk inside, John didn’t see his brothers bull rushing him until it was too late. They all four piled on top of him, tackling him to the ground, and John gasped out, “Shit!” When they finally got off of him, a hand went to his knee, feeling it throbbing, and knew they’d landed on it wrong. “Thanks bro…” He laughed, ignoring the pain. “Nothing like getting injured out of the ring.” After exchanging a few smartass comments, he excused himself to go grab some ice from the house. “Damn!” He hissed once inside, not wanting his parents or anyone else to know he was in pain.

Ariella jumped upon hearing his voice, dropping the bowl of chips that she’d made, and sighed heavily, shaking her head in disappointment. She quickly grabbed the broom and swept up her mess, noticing John getting some ice for his knee that was already bruised. Sighing, she finished up with the cleaning and then got another bag of chips, pouring them into the bowl, and turned around to face him. “Are you alright?” She finally asked her voice quiet and low.

He glanced up at her, nodding, holding the ice to his knee. “Yeah, nothing major.” He replied casually. “So uh…How are you, Ariella?” His eyes quickly scanned her from top to bottom, more intent on gauging her physical condition then her physical shape, though he took note of that too.

Shrugging, Ariella ran a hand through her hair and replied conversationally, “I’m okay. Still a little sore, but I can move without wincing or crying now. I rested and recuperated so I’m almost back to normal.” She smiled at him hesitantly and cleared her throat. “I’m gonna go put these outside…” Ariella started heading outside, biting her bottom lip, and couldn’t believe how awkward this was between them.

John tossed the ice into the sink, quickly following her, his knee mostly numb. “Need any help?” He offered eager to have any reason to talk to her.

Ariella stopped as she turned around to face him, looking down at the bowl of chips in her hand, and shook her head. “No, I think I can manage carrying this.” She answered, winking, flashing him a smile before turning around and heading outside. Walking back inside the house, Carol had asked her to grab some more things to bring out and seen John still nursing his knee, sighing. “Here, let me help you.” Ariella offered, wrapping the ice around his knee in a way so it wouldn’t budge, and nodded. “There ya go it won’t move so you don’t have to stay in here all day.”

Smiling warmly as his heart ignited with a little life, John softly said, “I could handle it…We could go camp out in the den and watch a movie or something…after the barbeque of course.” He added quickly, trying not to sound pushy or overeager. “If you wanted…” He looked down at his knee after she wrapped it and joked, “Thanks Ariel, it’s nice having a beautiful nurse instead of a bald physical therapist.”

Smirking up at him, Ariella stood back up as she shrugged her shoulders vaguely, not seeing the big deal about it. “It’s not big deal, John. As for the movie idea, that sounds good.” She wasn’t hesitant and surprised herself by how bold she was becoming, especially after the huge fight they’d had the previous weekend. Ariella bit her bottom lip as she looked into his blue eyes and softly apologized, “I’m sorry about the other night. I was rude and shouldn’t have yelled at you the way I did.”

John smiled, genuinely relieved and happy. “Don’t apologize, I was a prick.” He said, helping her gather up the things Carol had asked for. “I’m sorry about all that. I’ve only got one day left off, tomorrow, and I was hoping…maybe you’d spend it with me?” His voice was filled with hope and hesitation, not wanting to leave on bad terms with her. Actually, he wasn’t ready to leave, period.

Looking up at him, his eyes sparkling back at her, Ariella bit her bottom lip and smiled softly as she nodded. “I’d love that.” She whispered her voice quiet and meek as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Her insides were quaking and carried out the rest of the things Carol had asked her to do, thankful for John’s help, and sat back down as she began chomping on some more chips.

John sat on the grass beside her chair, quickly becoming engaged in a conversation with his dad. He stiffened when he heard someone shout out one of the phrases he used when on television, his eyes narrowing when he seen it was his brother. “Man, ya mind? I’m at home.” He couldn’t help, but grin though, relaxing against Ariella’s chair, tilting his head back to smile at her. “You hungry, Ariel?”

“Way ahead of ya.” Ariella held up her plate of food, showing him she’d already ate, and winked down at him before engaging in a conversation with his brother. “Dan, shut up!” She playfully shouted, shoving him down on the grass, feeling her cheeks grow hot from what he’d asked her. “You are such a perv!” Her laughter flowed through the air, not insulted in the least, and sighed when Dan asked her to marry him playfully. “I’m sorry, Daniel, but my heart belongs to someone else. Maybe next time, babe.” She winked at him, laughing when he began begging and pleading with her.

Shock invaded John’s body as he felt a twinge of jealousy shoot up his spine. He turned in the grass so he could look at her without straining his neck. “Who’s your heart belong to, Ariel?” John asked curiously, trying to sound playful, and plucked a blade of grass, twirling it between his fingers.

“It belongs to none other than…” Her words trailed off, knowing his heart was pounding a mile a minute, and grinned as she finally found the perfect person to shoot back at him. “Mark Wahlberg.” Ariella smiled sweetly at him, winking, and laughed when Dan said something about tickling her mercilessly. “Don’t you…DARE!” Ariella squealed out when they began grabbing for her and ended up jumping off her chair, seeing all five brothers trying to gang up on her, and ran up the stairs, hiding behind Carol. “Make them stop, mom!! They’re trying to tickle me!!” She whined, causing Carol to laugh as she told her sons to shoo. “Thanks mom.” Ariella hugged her before walking into the house, trying to stop laughing.

“Ruin all of our fun, mom.” John grumbled good naturedly, laughing when she tossed a handful of chips at him. “Thanks…I needed that.” His eyes strayed toward the house.

John almost jumped when Carol bent forward and whispered in his ear, “Go talk to her and quit staring.”

“You know, I think you’re getting bossy.” He teased, jumping up and moved out of swatting reach before starting towards the house, halting to grab two beers.

Ariella had walked into the house, needing to use the bathroom from laughing so hard, and fixed her makeup before walking out. She didn’t notice someone behind her as she walked toward the kitchen and squealed out in surprise when someone jabbed her in the sides gently. Her body went about five feet in the air and whipped around, immediately glaring at John’s grinning face. “You jerk!” She shouted, smacking him in the arm, and pouted playfully at him. “You nearly gave me a heart attack!” Her hand was resting over her heart, trying to calm down, and smiled at him. “Do you have a knack for following me everywhere I go?”

“I’m a lost puppy.” John admitted openly, not ashamed in the least, and held out a beer for her. “I realize you’re underage, but…This time you won’t have to sneak it.” He smirked, remembering a time when they both had snuck a beer, getting into some serious trouble with the parents.

“No thanks.” She replied softly, running a hand through her hair, and sighed exasperatedly. “Aww fuck it.” She muttered, snatching it from his grasp, and popped the top on it, clinking it against his. Ariella smiled softly before taking a swig and made a disgusted face. “God, this is horrible.” She groaned, laughing and looked up into his beautiful blue eyes, feeling her heart flutter back at him. “I’ve missed us hanging out like this.” She quietly admitted, biting her bottom lip from nervousness.

John nodded, making a face as he looked down at the beer. “This tastes like piss.” He agreed, walking over to the sink to pour it out, getting into the fridge and smirked. “Dad’s hiding the good stuff.” His blue eyes twinkled mischievously back at her and shook his head. “I’ve missed this too, Ariel…” He confessed, rubbing a hand over his hair. “A lot actually.”

Smiling softly back at him, Ariella walked over and leaned against the open fridge door, running her fingers along it, and softly asked, “Do you think we could start that movie idea early?” Her eyes held such hope, just wanting to be alone with him, especially since he was leaving after tomorrow.

He smiled at her before glancing out at the barbeque and replied, “Yeah, they won’t miss us.” His hand clasped with hers, leading her to the den, and shut the door behind them. “What are you in the mood for?” John asked, scanning the shelves of DVD’s. “Anything in particular?” He glanced over at her, suddenly taken aback by how beautiful she’d become.

Ariella lowered herself down on the couch, running her hands through her hair as she twirled a strand around her finger, and shrugged her shoulders at him. “I don’t care what we watch. I just wanted to spend some…alone time with you, since you’re leaving in a day.” Her voice was quiet and meek again, almost shy like, not wanting to push anything, but couldn’t help herself. John had walked back into her life and she wasn’t about to miss a golden opportunity, no matter what the past held. She was still in love with the man standing before her and now that she knew he felt the same way, she wasn’t going to let him go like she did last time.

John turned to stare down at Ariella, a thoughtful on his face. “Come with me when I leave, Ariel.” He stated, walking over to sit next to her, his knee touching hers. “It’d do you some good to get out of town for awhile and I get awfully lonely on the road…” John pleaded, taking her hand in his own. “I’d like some company, preferably yours. What do you think?”

She could only gape at him, trying to register in her mind what he just asked her, and bit her bottom lip. This was a HUGE request. Ariella tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, feeling his hand take hers, and stared up into his beautiful blue eyes. Her mind screamed no, but her heart was bellowing yes, causing her to become very confused. “I don’t know…” She finally managed to find her voice, her gaze never leaving his. “Are you sure you want me to go on the road with you?”

“Sure, it’d be fun.” John replied happily, his blue eyes crinkling. “You can come watch me make a fool out of myself in front of a camera. I get some hometown company. I’ll pay, so you wouldn’t have to worry about that. What do you say, Ariel?” He stared at her, holding his breath, and awaited her answer.

“This is…a big decision, John…” The shock was starting to wear off as she seen the hope staring her in the face, causing her heart to quench, and finally sighed heavily. “What could it hurt?” She responded, smiling softly at him, and nodded her head in compliance. “I’ll go with you, but only for a few weeks and I’m paying for everything myself. I don’t want you paying my way.” A stern look came over her features as she crossed her arms in front of her chest, and slid her hand out of his, extending it in a business proposition. “Deal?”

John grimaced at her stipulations, knowing he couldn’t very well deny her. “Stubborn woman.” He teased before taking her hand, shaking it firmly, his eyes locking with hers, and replied, “You have a deal.”
Chapter 6

“Pick out a movie; I’ve got to make a quick phone call.” John stated, standing up from the couch, and knew he had to make the arrangements before it was too late. The airlines usually gave the wrestlers within in twelve hours of their flight to make last minute changes so he had to hurry. He began to walk away, but halted and turned to face her, asking, “Adjoining bedrooms alright?”

Hearing that question sound from John’s mouth, Ariella felt her heart drop in the pit of her stomach. She tried in vain to mask the pain that it’d caused as she smiled weakly and nodded, not able to use her real voice. Once he walked out of the room, Ariella headed over to the DVD section, trying to focus her mind on something else instead of her upcoming trip with John. It’d really hurt to know that he didn’t want to be with her, that they were remaining friends, especially after telling her he fell in love with the person who wrote that letter. ‘I’m so stupid.’ She thought sadly, raking a hand through her hair hastily, and decided on the movie ‘She’s the Man’. After popping it in and watching the preview screen, Ariella waited for John to return while she curled up on the far end of the couch.

John rubbed the back of his neck, sitting at the kitchen table, his cell lying in front of him. The adjoining rooms weren’t exactly what he wanted, but he didn’t want to ruin the peace between them by suggesting they share. Especially since she had already accused him of being attracted to her due to her “sprouting tits”. “Damn.” He muttered, punching in a number. He quickly made the arrangements for her to join him, eyes widening when he was informed the hotel was all booked up. After hanging up with the reservation department, John walked back down to the den, seeing her curled up on the couch, and wondered how he was going to tell her this. “Ariel?” He asked, approaching her cautiously. Why the Hell was he so damned nervous?! “Mind sharing a room with me?”

Her head shot up, staring at him with widened eyes, and bit her bottom lip as she curled up further on the couch. “I don’t mind what we do, John. It doesn’t matter to me.” Her voice was low and quiet, exhausted from the day’s events, but had enough energy to stay up and spend time with him. She noticed the troubled look in his eyes, wondering what had happened, and ran a hand through her hair. “What’s the matter?”

“Nothing, the place is just booked and I…” John began, sitting down on the opposite end of the couch, half sprawling. “I don’t want you to think I’m a scumbag or anything by sharing a room with you.” He admitted, looking at her and smiling slightly. “I’m trying to be a gentleman.” He reached out and took her hand, resting them on his leg. “But I do have to warn you: I’m a bed hog. Unless you prefer me sleeping on the couch.”

Midnight blue eyes sparkled back at him as she giggled, not believing this was actually happening, and how she lucked out. She shoved him playfully, never slipping her hand out of his, and smiled as she shook her head. “Well, I’m a cover hog so we’ll just have to deal with each other. I refuse to make you sleep on the couch. If anyone is going to do that, it’ll be me.” She informed him, her stubborn streak kicking in again, and smirked up at him when he grumbled in return.

“No, you’re not sleeping on the couch.” John stated defiantly, not even interested in the movie that was playing. “We’ll just have to make sure we get a very large blanket.” He smirked at her, looking both playful and seductive all in one. “Couches are uncomfortable. Besides, I make a nice body pillow if you’re interested.” He winked at her for emphasis and chuckled.

Feeling her cheeks grow hot at his words, Ariella turned around, snatching her hand from his and shook her head. “John, you are so bad!” She exclaimed, covering her cheeks with her hands, trying to get them to cool down though the temperature had definitely rose in the den. The movie wasn’t even in her interest anymore as she remained staring at the ground, suddenly more interested in it than the man sitting down beside her, and shook her head repeatedly. ‘Down girl. DOWN!’ She coached herself mentally, hoping her cheeks cooled down before she completely melted.

John grinned, seeing her cover her cheeks, even in the dim room able to see a bit of glow, enough to admire her. “Ahh Ariel, I didn’t mean to make you blush.” He drawled teasingly, his Boston accent kicking in, and scooted closer so he could gently tickle her ribs. “But you look so damn cute when you’re doin’ it. Maybe you should blush more often.” He smiled playfully, reaching up to pull her hands away from her face. “What’re you shakin’ your head for?”

“Because you are so bad!” She repeated, feeling his hands pull hers from her cheeks, and looked up into his beautiful blue eyes as she smiled. Her cheeks had gone cool again, but her body temperature was rising a degree as every second ticked by that he was touching her. It didn’t matter if it was a friendly tap or holding hands, Ariella felt her entire body melt every time she touched him. Clearing her throat, Ariella tore her eyes away from his and looked over at the movie, seeing it hadn’t started yet, and decided to focus on that instead of John. “Do you like the movie…I picked out?” She asked casually, trying to keep the nervousness out of her voice.

His eyes glanced at the television, seeing it was some movie with Amanda Bines, and shrugged before turning back to her. “Yeah sure. What is it?” He laughed, taking her hand again. “Ariel, I don’t bite.” He chuckled, moving back to his original spot, but not letting go of her hand stroking the palm with his thumb. “I nibble…”

Ariella felt herself actually leap off the couch from nervousness as she laughed out in the same tone. She could already feel herself sweat and needed some air as she backed away from him slowly, toward the door. “I-I’ll be right back.” She hastily said before rushing upstairs, fanning herself with her hand, and headed into the bathroom. She never noticed the figure that was behind her once she closed the bathroom door.

John leaned his head against the couch, closing his eyes, and muttered under his breath while running a hand down his face, “Smooth, Cena smooth.”

She barely had time to scream, let alone fight him as he shoved her further inside, slamming the door behind them. Ariella managed to flip the switch, her eyes instantly widening at the sight of who it was, and gasped out, “M-Marc?!”

Marc smiled wickedly, though he didn’t look amused at all. “I see how it is. You call it off with me just so you can play John’s whore.” He shook his head, almost sadly, and advanced on her. “And here you thought I was gone for good, didn’t you?”

Fear instantly entered her eyes as she backed from him, not wanting to get hurt again, the tears filling her eyes out of pure instinct. “I’m not with him. We’re just trying to mend our friendship, that’s all.” Her voice was incredibly firm and truthful as she finally backed against the nearest wall, her entire body trembling, and squeezed her eyes shut, waiting for the blow to come. “Please don’t hit me…” She whispered pleadingly, a single tear rolling down her cheek though she knew it wouldn’t do any good.

His smile broadened in a sick fashion, loving the smell of her fear entering his nostrils, and flared them a bit. “I’m not going to hit you, Ariella.” He said in a soothing voice, one hand reaching out to jerk the shower curtain off the rod. “That would leave fingerprints and I know John must have been urging you to be a good citizen.” Suddenly, Marc lunged, wrapping the curtain over her head before grabbing her by the throat, slamming her back against the wall hard. “You fuckin’ little bitch!” He snapped, his blue eyes flaring with anger.

Ariella’s eyes widened as she screamed out in pain, feeling him slamming her into the wall, and immediately crumbled against him, not able to fight him off. “Stop…” She croaked out, coughing and gasping for a breath of air, her ribs not fully healed yet from his last attack. Tears streamed down her cheeks like two rapid rivers and it didn’t help to have the shower curtain covering her face and neck. Her body was continually slammed into the wall, every blow causing her to slip further and further into darkness, and finally loosened her grip on his wrist.

Marc let go when she went limp, pulling the shower curtain off of her, and wadded it up, tossing it into the tub. “That’ll teach you.” He stated coldly, bending down to smooth back her hair. “Now maybe you’ll reconsider traveling with him…You’re mine, Ariella.” He whispered, knowing she couldn’t hear him and didn’t care. The message had been sent loud and clear so now it was up to her whether or not to defy him. “You’re mine.” He repeated before slipping out of the bathroom, quietly making his way out of the house, unnoticed, unseen, and unheard.

John frowned when he heard the front door close quietly, wondering if maybe Ariella had left. He quickly stood up and walked out of the den, sticking his head out of the front door in time to see a vehicle he didn’t recognize disappear. The frown deepening, John quickly searched the house, his heart almost stopping when he seen the downstairs bathroom door opened a crack. Something was laying there as he approached it and felt his stomach clench at the sight. “Ariel?” He whispered, pushing the door open, and felt his blue eyes widen when he seen her, dropping down to gently roll her over. “Ariel? Baby? Damn!”

A single trickle of blood flowed from the back of her head and the shower curtain was balled up in the corner of the bathtub. Her limp body lay prone to the floor, not able to move, think, feel, nothing. Marc had done a number on her this time as John came to her rescue. Something inside her head heard his voice as she coughed and rasped out, trying to suck in air as she regained consciousness, and lashed out of instinct. “STAY AWAY FROM ME!! STOP IT, MARC!!” Ariella screamed, immediately backing away from him, curling up a tight ball, and cried, not caring how much pain her body was racked with. She hadn’t realized it was John instead of Marc because her eyes hadn’t opened yet.

John grabbed her, pulling her against his body, and tried to get her to see who it was. “It’s me, Ariel, it’s John.” He soothed, quickly getting to his feet, hearing his family calling out to them. Apparently, her screams were quite audible from the bathroom. He frowned when he felt something warm and sticky on his arm, looking down to see the blood coming from her head. “Somebody call a fucking ambulance!!” He shouted, not moving for fear of something else being wrong. “Ariel, Ariel can you hear me?”

Slowly coming back to reality, Ariella’s eyes looked up into John’s, and smiled hesitantly, the tears slowly sliding down the corners of her eyes. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” She whispered before her body completely went limp in his arms. The blood was coming from the back of her head as Ariella allowed the darkness to succumb her body once more.

He stood there impatiently until the ambulance arrived, every minute passing by increasing his fear. When Ariella was finally loaded into the back, he climbed in with her, ignoring the orderlies when they told him he needed to drive himself. “I’m not leaving her!” He growled dangerously, blue eyes flashing with barely suppressed rage. He held her hand while they slipped an IV into her arm, feeling like crying that he hadn’t been able to protect her, not even in his own parent’s house.

After getting poked and prodded for three hours, Ariella was finally admitted into a hospital room, still unconscious, and had a bandage wrapped around her head. The doctor walked out, holding a clipboard in his hand while the other was in his white coat pocket. “Family of Ariella Johnson?” He called out, instantly backing up when the man with raged filled blue eyes came into his midst, and swallowed nervously. “Are you of any relation to the girl?”

“I’m…her friend.” John answered, forcing himself to remain calm. He quickly answered all of the doctor’s questions, finally asking one of his own. “How is she? Is she awake? Can I see her?”

The doctor sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair, and looked at the young man before him. The amount of worry in his blue eyes caused the doctor to feel sorry for him as he cleared his throat and began, “She’s unconscious, but she’ll be just fine. Ariella was very lucky this time around, she only had a small laceration on the back of her skull and there seems to be no brain damage. We did an MRI and CAT scan on her just to be on the safe side and it showed no complications. Whoever did this was probably trying to scare her. Do you have any idea who could've done this? She has bruises all around her throat that resemble handprints.” The shower curtain apparently hadn’t been thick enough for Marc’s prints because they had showed up on her neck, which was one of the main reasons why the doctor was asking this question.

John nodded, having a very good idea who had done this. “She and her boyfriend just broke up earlier this week.” He answered, knowing Ariella was going to be pissed with him, but not caring. All he wanted was for her to be safe and taken care of. He quickly gave the doctor the needed information before darting past him, halting in the doorway when he seen Ariella lying on the bed. He walked in, crouching down beside her bed, taking her limp hand in his, stroking it against his cheek. “I’m so sorry baby.” He whispered, a tear sliding down his cheek. “I should’ve been there.”

Slowly opening her eyes upon feeling his touch, Ariella looked around her surroundings, immediately tensing. Just the smell alone told her she was in the hospital. Her eyes strayed over, seeing John’s eyes were closed, and he was rubbing her hand against his cheek, causing her to smile a little, and winced when she did. “J-John?” She rasped out, her throat incredibly sore and raw from the attack from Marc, and sighed heavily, remembering everything as the memory replayed in her mind.

His eyes shot open upon hearing her voice, another tear sliding down his cheek, and whispered out hopefully, “Ariella?” He winced when he heard her voice. “How do you feel?” He knew he should’ve reached for the call button, but didn’t wanting just a brief moment alone with her.

“Besides the pounding headache, never better.” She whispered jokingly, staring into his blue eyes, and reached her hand to his face, gently wiping his tears away. Her heart broke at the look of sheer fear and worry in his eyes, on his face as she sighed, hating herself for getting involved with Marc in the first place. “Don’t cry, John…”

“I wasn't there to protect you.” He whispered, sounding raw with emotion. “I should’ve been, Ariel. I should’ve been there. A headache? I’ll get the doctor in here.” He quickly pressed the call button, not wanting her to be in anymore pain than necessary, and stroked her hair soothingly with his hand. “I’m sorry, baby.”
Chapter 7

Staring up at him with saddened eyes, Ariella bit her bottom lip as her eyes adverted to the sheet below, wincing a little as her head pounded. The doctor decided to walk in, interrupting them, and Ariella sighed as she greeted solemnly, “Hey Jerry.” She hadn’t seen him at least twenty times in the past year. “Sorry to be a bother to you again, you know how it goes.” Her humor was trying to shine through, though a serious look adorned her face immediately, causing her eyes to advert to the sheet again. He knew what was going on with her and Marc, but Ariella had made him swear not to tell anyone about it and so far, he’d kept his word to her.

John watched as the doctor, Jerry, checked Ariella out again, frowning when she said again, guessing she had been in here before. The knowing look in the doctor’s eyes only told John even more. He struggled to keep from exploding, furious with Marc for doing this to her. “When can she leave?” He asked finally, wanting to get as far away from Marc as soon as possible.

The doctor sighed heavily, finishing up the checkup, and looked into her eyes, ignoring John temporarily. “Ariel, you need to tell someone about this. What did he do this time?” Jerry questioned, causing Ariella to bite her bottom lip, and took a deep shaky breath while wincing. “I went to the bathroom and…he shoved me into it, told me I was screwing John and that was the only reason why I dumped him. Then…he wrapped the shower curtain around me and slammed me repeatedly against the wall and told me that I better think twice before going on the road with John.” She looked up at him through tear filled eyes and grabbed his hand firmly in her grasp. “Please don’t go after him. I don’t want you getting in trouble, John…” There was a pleading tone in her voice, even though she wanted Marc to pay for what he’d done to her, she also didn’t want John going to jail and putting his job in jeopardy.

John listened to this, feeling his heart breaking with each word she spoke, unable to comprehend someone being that evil and cruel. He remained silent, a quiet observer, his blue eyes darting back and forth between the two. John already was mentally making plans to get her out of town that very night if she was released. With Marc lurking around and being the snake that he was, John wanted Ariella as far away from West Newbury as possible.

After the doctor looked her over one more time, he told her she could be released, much to her joy and relief. She just wanted to lie down in bed and sleep until her head stopped pounding in and out of her skull. Once the doctor left, Ariella and John were left alone as she remained looking down at her blanket, not daring to look up at him. “I can’t go, John.” She finally said after a few more minutes of silence between them, regret and hurt evident in her voice.

“Yes you can.” John countered, already knowing why she had said it. “We’re leaving tonight. If you stay, all he’s going to do is beat the hell out of you some more, possibly even kill you, Ariel. Is that what you want?” He sat on the edge of the hospital bed, taking her hand in his. “You’re coming with me.”

Ariella couldn’t help it any longer and burst into tears, covering her face with her hands, not caring if the pain in her head ignited more. “I can’t do it! He’ll find me no matter where I go, John!” She argued, crying out in both fear and anger, the anger being directed at Marc at the moment. “I can’t go.” She whispered, letting the silent tears flow down her face freely.

“Yes you can, baby.” John whispered, pulling her gently into his arms. He didn’t want to hurt her anymore than she already was. “How’s he going to find you? You’ll be moving constantly, place to place. I’ll be there, everything will be alright, but you cant’ stay here anymore. Please Ariel?” He pleaded, blue eyes begging with her. “Come with me; just…let me take you away, please?”

Staring into his beautiful blue eyes, Ariella stroked his cheek with her hand, knowing he was genuinely concerned for her. She knew she couldn’t stay either and knew it was the right thing to do by going with John. Even though Marc could follow them. For once, she was going to follow her heart as she leaned her head against his shoulder, wrapping her arms around his neck, and nodded as she burst out in more tears. “Okay…” She whispered, finally caving in, and surrendering to his request. “I’ll go.”

John breathed a huge sigh of relief when she finally agreed, burying his face in the crook of her neck. “Thank God…” He whispered, pain coursing through him when he felt her hot tears on his neck. “Don’t cry, Ariel please. I’ll take care of you.” He assured her, pulling back to gently wipe away her tears. “You’ll see…”

Ariella felt him wipe her tears away as she sniffled, her entire body slowly starting to calm down. The doctor walked back in at that moment, handing her the release papers, and escorted John out of the room to speak with him for a moment. “Listen, Ariel means a lot to me, John. That bastard has caused her a lot of pain and torment so if you find him, kill him, and I’ll back you up in court. This is the twentieth time she’s been in this hospital in the past three months. Just please, please don’t tell her that you know because she forced me to promise not to say anything.” Jerry stated pure seriousness evident in his eyes and voice.

John nodded, smiling grimly, and replied in a quiet, but serious tone, “I won’t doc.” He shook Jerry’s hand. “Believe me, I catch him on the streets or near her, I’m putting the bastard out of everyone’s misery.” He ran a hand through his short hair. “Twenty times? Isn’t it your job to report that kind of thing?” He asked, raising an eyebrow at the doctor.

Sighing heavily, Jerry ran a hand through his hair and tucked his instrument in his pocket as he shook his head, and replied, “Unfortunately, it has to be the patient’s ultimate decision to report it or not. I don’t go against my patient’s wishes, no matter if its right or not. I’m sorry, John, but it’s not my job or responsibility to report things like this. It’s hers and she won’t do it because she’s deathly afraid of him.”

John nodded in understanding, not blaming Jerry for keeping his word to Ariella, but also wished there was something that could be done about Marc. “I understand I’m taking her away tonight as soon as possible. She’ll be far away from here by morning.” He promised, turning to walk back in the room. “Hey girl.” He greeted with a smile, reaching out to stroke her face. “You ready to get the hell outta dodge?”

Cracking a smile up at him, Ariella nodded, excitement mixed with pain shined through her eyes just as Jerry entered. “I want you to take it easy, Ariel. No physical exertion for the next week or so, just until your head heals. Your MRI and CAT scan came back positive so there’s nothing wrong with you as far as that’s concerned You really need to take it easy though because you have a few busted ribs. You can fly, but you need to rest and relax for at least two weeks. Here…” He handed her a bag of pain medication, after informing her of her injuries, and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. “Those are on the house.”

Jerry winked at her before disappear out of the door, causing Ariella to sigh deeply, and let a bitter laugh escape her lips while jokingly asked, “Who would’ve thought I would’ve gotten to know the hospital staff by first name, eh?”

John offered an awkward smile and replied, “Well, that’s not always a bad thing.” He said softly, gathering her clothes from the bag a nurse had placed them in. “Here, you get dressed. I’ll be right outside the door.” He bent down to kiss her forehead before slipping out into the hallway, closing the door behind him. John walked across the hall to the nurse’s station and was soon on the phone, arranging for a cab to pick them up. The next call was to his mom and giving her the update on Ariella’s condition, informing her that they would be leaving tonight.

Slowly sitting up in bed, the IV no longer in her arm, thanks to Jerry, Ariella slowly stood up, wincing at the pounding headache she had. She slowly slipped in a pair of blue jeans, peeling the hospital gown off of her, and pulled on the long sleeved black shirt. She sat down and pulled her socks and shoes on before standing back up again, venturing over to the mirror. Staring at her reflection, Ariella sighed heavily, wishing she was wearing a turtle neck, and hated the bandage that was wrapped around her head along with the green and blue bruises on her throat. “I hate him. I hate him so much.” She whispered, wincing a little more, and finally finished getting dressed before sitting on the bed and waited for John to return.

A few minutes later, John knocked on the door, opening it when she called out to him. “You ready? I already called a cab.” He informed, sighing as he stared at the bandage that was wrapped around her head, wishing he’d been able to stop it. “C’mon.” John took her hand and led her out into the hallway, nodding to the doctor, silently reaffirming his promise to rip Marc’s throat out.

Ariella allowed him to lead her out to the waiting room, sighing when they forced her into a wheelchair, and flat out refused to do it. “Jerry, I don’t need that damned thing. I can walk on my own. I’m not helpless or paralyzed. Just take it away, I’m walking out of here whether you like it or not.” She argued, stating emphatically, and crossed her arms in front of her chest in defiance. Her lips were pursed together tightly while her eyes narrowed slightly at him, daring him to try to force her into the wheelchair.

John chuckled, loving how stubborn she was being. “I got it doc.” He assured, winking at Jerry, and scooped her up into his muscular arms. “How’s this?” He asked her, grinning slightly, holding her gently so he didn’t hurt her more. “You ready to be a good girl and get the hell out of here yet?”

“I’m never a good girl in this hospital.” She confessed in a giggle, wincing a little more from her head, and leaned it against his shoulder, running her finger down his neck. She loved being held in John’s safe, secure arms, knowing he would never hurt her, and sighed in contentment. Even though Marc had done a number on her, Ariella knew it was going to go away eventually and couldn’t wait to get on the road with John. “Thank you for everything.” She whispered, running her finger up and down his neck absentmindedly, and never wanted to leave his arms again.

Staring into her eyes, John tingled with pleasure where she touched him. “You’re welcome.” He whispered back, carrying her down the corridor, ignoring the disapproving looks the nurses shot them. “Our ride is here.” He murmured in her ear, spotting the cab waiting outside the lobby doors. He quickly made his way outside, nodding to the driver who had already opened the door and gently set her inside. He gave the driver his parents address, sitting beside Ariella, his eyes studying her as the car took off, and asked, “You alright, babe?”

Looking up into his blue eyes, Ariella nodded as she leaned her chin on her hand, staring out the window, and sighed heavily to herself. “Yeah, I’m just…It hurts.” She confessed, running her fingers through her hair, and knew they had to stop at her apartment as she looked over at him. “Can we stop at my place first so I can pack my things?”

John nodded, quickly giving the driver the new address. He was silent until they reached the apartment. He almost frowned when Ariella got out of the cab, quickly following her, picking her up again in his arms. John didn’t even want her attempting to walk up the stairs to her apartment and waited patiently in front of her door until she managed to unlock it. Only setting her down reluctantly when they were inside, he asked, “What all do you need?”

Crossing her arms in front of her chest, Ariella took a step back from him, pushing her hand to stop him on the chest, and stated, “I don’t need you carrying me around, John. I can walk. I’m not paralyzed or helpless. I need to pack my clothes and other things, so just wait out here until I’m done. I can do this by myself.” She then walked away from him, already growing frustrated, and shut her bedroom door behind her before pulling out her suitcases, beginning to pack alone.

Sighing, John dropped down on the couch, burying his head in his hands. He wasn’t trying to upset her. He only wanted to take care of her. He waited patiently for her to pack, promising himself he wouldn’t be so overeager to help her too much since it only irritated her. Though, he also knew he was probably going to wind up doing it anyway.

An hour passed and her bedroom door finally opened, followed by tossing two bags out in the living room, and Ariella walked out, looking completely exhausted. “I’m finished.” She whispered, running a hand through her hair and sighed heavily, feeling like she was going to collapse at any given second.

“Do you want to lie down?” He asked, frowning, and stood up from the couch instantly. “We’ve got some time before the plane leaves yet.” He had called and secured a new flight for them, but it wasn’t for a few hours yet.

Staring over at him, Ariella yawned loudly as she walked over to him, and barely made it to the couch before collapsing. “You can carry me.” She whispered, not having the strength to stand up, and snuggled into his arms since she’d landed on his lap. “I just need to sleep for a minute. Just a minute and I’ll be ready to go, alright?” Her voice sounded so exhausted and dead as she closed her eyes, allowing the darkness of sleep to succumb her entire body.

John waited until she was out before calling home and requesting a favor from his dad. In less than twenty minutes, John SR. was at Ariella’s door with John’s stuff, handing over his rental keys. Carol waited downstairs in her car, having followed her husband. “Thanks dad.” John hugged his father, gently scooping Ariella in his arms, his father grabbing her two bags. Soon, everyone had gone their ways and John was at the airport. He sat down in one of the plastic seats to wait, still cradling her in his arms, and watched her sleep.

A few minutes later before they boarded the plane, Ariella had slowly opened her eyes, yawning extremely loud and snuggled further into his arms. She moaned his name softly, having a wonderful dream about him, and ran her hand up and down his chest. “Mmm, I love you, John.” She moaned out quietly before falling into a deeper sleep, and sighed in contentment, never wanting to leave the place she’d gone to.

John stared down at her, his eyes widening, and felt his heart rate speed up. Even though she was asleep, he bent down and lightly kissed her lips. “I love you too.” He whispered, sighing and getting to his feet when their private plane was called. After getting her arranged in her seat, he sat down and took her hand, watching her until he too fell into a deep slumber.
Chapter 8

Sometime later that night, Ariella slowly fluttered her eyes open, and looked around, seeing they were up in the air in the plane. She looked over to her right, seeing John was sleeping peacefully, and smiled a little, knowing he’d taken care of everything. ‘I do love him.’ She thought, wishing she could tell him and stop being such a coward about it, but then again, they’d just reconciled and she wanted to go slow. Ariella looked out the window, seeing the stars zipping past them, and the moon shined in her face since they were above the clouds. It was amazing, she’d never been on a plane before, and the pain her head had somewhat diminished.

John woke up with a start, staring around and remembering where he was. He glanced over to find Ariella staring out the window and smiled, instantly relaxing in his seat. “How’re you feeling, Ariel?” He asked softly, letting her know he was awake.

Turning her head to face him, Ariella smiled softly as she nodded, her eyes sparkling with excitement and exhaustion. “I’m feeling better than I was earlier. Thank you for taking care of everything, John.” She took his hand in hers, rubbing her thumb over the knuckles, and continued staring out the window in thought.

He sighed contentedly, lacing his fingers with hers. “We’ll be landing soon.” He told her when he seen a flight attendant flick the fasten seatbelt sign on. “A rental will be waiting and we can go straight to the hotel and get some sleep. How’s that sound?”

Ariella smiled softly back at him and nodded as she leaned her head against his arm, snuggling as close to him as she could. She reached over, buckling herself in, and leaned back against her chair, squeezing his hand a little when they started descending from the air. “Where are we going first?” She asked, trying to keep her mind off the little turbulence they’d hit.

John smiled, squeezing her hand back, and let her know silently that everything was going to be fine. “Well, we’ll go check in then get some sleep like I said. I’ve got to hit the gym in the morning then my time is yours until around three. You want to go to the show with me?” He asked, after running over his schedule for the day, and hoped she came with him to the arena.

Biting her bottom lip nervously, Ariella smiled up at him and nodded, feeling the butterflies erupt within her stomach, and ran a hand through her hair with her free hand. “Sure.” She whispered, closing her eyes when they landed, and felt like her stomach was going to double over at any moment. She sighed when the plane stopped and unbuckled, following John off the plane, and toward the luggage cart to retrieve their things.

Taking care of their things and thrusting the bags over his shoulders, John led the way towards the rental place on the main entrance floor of the airport. He quickly signed for his car before leading her to it. “Your chariot, M’lady.” He teased, opening the door for her and smirked when she began to blush.

“Why thank you kind sir.” She responded, slipping her hand in his offered one, and stepped inside the car, winking at him, and leaned back against the seat. She buckled up, not believing she was actually on the road with John, and sighed in contentment. “Nice ride.” She commented, looking at all of the neat things in the car, and couldn’t believe they actually snagged an SUV. “So, we’re in…what city?”

“Houston, Texas.” John replied, setting their bags in the backseat of the SUV before sliding into the driver’s side. “Long way from home ain’t it?” He asked, pulling out of the lot, and getting into the long line of cars leaving the airport. He flicked on the radio, silent until he finally got onto the main road, using the SUV’s GPS system to get them to the hotel. “Home sweet home.”

Raising an eyebrow up at him, Ariella shook her head as she crossed her arms in front of her chest and sighed. “No, West Newbury is home sweet home. This is just…the road.” She corrected him, looking out the window, and gasped at how stuffy the car had gotten. It wasn’t even light outside either, but the humanity was almost unbearable. “Damn…” She whimpered, turning the air conditioner on, and sighed in contentment when the cool air hit her face. “Much better.”

John shook his head, chuckling softly. “After two months of traveling straight, any place with a bed is home.” He commented, laughing, and smiled when he spotted their turn. He was silent until they reached the hotel, taking the road to the back, frowning when he seen the parking lot was packed. “Damn, looks like everyone is booked here.” He whistled searching the rows until he finally found a space. “Alright, let’s go get some rest.”

Ariella followed John into the hotel, not believing he was carrying all the bags, and grumbled, wishing he’d allow her to carry at least one. Her eyes kept remained on the floor as he checked them in and followed him into the elevator, waiting until they got up to their floor. Once the elevator dinged, Ariella followed John off as they finally arrived in his hotel room and opened the door after sliding the key card in the slot, allowing her to walk in first. She stopped in her tracks when she seen a Jacuzzi by the window and slowly walked toward it, not believing the view and breathed out in a gasp. “Wow…”

John chuckled, watching her for a moment before setting their bags down. He walked up behind her, wrapping his arms gently around her waist, careful not to hurt her. “Nice isn’t it?” He whispered in her ear, resting his head on top of hers, just enjoying holding her in his arms.

Nodding, Ariella leaned back against his chest as she closed her eyes, content with him holding her, and loved the view. It was so beautiful, especially with the million stars in the sky shining down on them, and seen a veranda attached to the room. “Are all of your hotel rooms like this?” She asked in disbelief, running her hands up and down his strong, muscular arms.

He chuckled softly, his breath hot against her ear, goose bumps rising on his arms where she touched him. “No, it all depends on where we’re at, how many rooms are available. Sometimes, we get stuck in some sick places, but there’s always the option to sleep in the rental.” He explained briefly and turned her around, staring down into her eyes, and reached up to stroke her cheek. “You should probably get some sleep, Ariel. Tomorrow is going to be busy and it’s already early AM.”

Smiling softly back at him, Ariella reached up and stroked his cheek gently with the back of her hand, sighing in resignation. “How can I sleep when I’m so excited being here with you?” She retorted softly and walked away from him over to her bag. She pulled out a midnight blue nightgown and walked into the bathroom past him in the process and closed the door behind her. John sank down onto the bed, groaning, wondering just how he was going to last the rest of the night. He finally got up, grabbing the bottom of his beater, and pulled it over his head, tossing it aside before kicking off his shoes. John pulled a pair of black cotton pajama pants out of his bag before leaning against the wall, waiting patiently for her to come out. Ariella smiled as she walked out of the bathroom, the bandage removed, and made sure to feel the back of her head, not feeling any blood coming out. She was carrying her clothes that she’d taken off and walked past him, seeing him leaning against the wall, and dropped them on her bag before turning around to face him. “What are you staring at?” She asked curiously, walking over to the bed, and pulled the comforter back. Her black hair pooled down her shoulder and back as she started getting her side of the bed adjusted.

“An angel…” John murmured, thinking that’s exactly what she looked like. He shook his head, flashing a smile, and said, “I won’t be long.” He then disappeared into the bathroom, picking up his bag up on the way. John got into the shower, letting the hot water pound down on him for a few minutes, relaxing his tense muscles before washing himself. He quickly attended his needs, brushed his teeth, and slipped on his pajama pants. He walked back out into the main room, halting to stare at her, once more her beauty taking his breath away.

Ariella was going through her personal belongings she’d brought with her on the road, laying them on the bed. She smiled as she started going through her CDs, knowing she’d have to buy a portable CD player sometime later that day. She hadn’t noticed John walk out of the bedroom and smiled to herself, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, and looked down at a picture she’d brought along. It was of her and John, one of their final moments together before the letter incident, and sighed heavily, not believing she was already eighteen. Feeling eyes upon her, Ariella slowly looked up and immediately blushed when she spotted John staring at her again before looking down again. Not a word was spoken to him as she quickly put her belongings away, including the picture, not wanting him to see it.

John ran a hand through his hair, accidentally spiking it. “You ready to sleep?” He asked softly, approaching the bed slowly, stepping around to his side, not wanting to frighten her. “You’ve had one Hell of a day.” He slipped under the covers, lying on his side so he could look at her, and patted the space next to him.

Nodding reluctantly, Ariella shoved her bag on the floor after zipping it up before climbing under the comforter and laid there beside him. She smiled when he pulled her into his arms and against his chest. Her back was pressed against him as she spooned her body with his, causing her to sigh in contentment, and ran her fingernails lightly against his arm. She loved the feeling of his muscles rippling beneath her touch. “Go to sleep, John. You need it.” She whispered, snuggling further into him, and never wanted to leave his arms.

Gently draping his arm around her, John grabbed her hand in his. He buried his face in her hair, inhaling deeply before yawning, and fought to keep his eyes open as he whispered in her ear, “I love you, Ariella…”

Tears instantly sprang to her eyes when she heard that, not believing he actually told her, and squeezed his hand with hers. “I love you too, John.” She whispered back, kissing his arm, and closed her eyes, drifting off into a slumber.

Ariella was up with the sun as she slowly slinked out of bed, making sure not to wake John, and walked over to the balcony. She yawned silently to herself before quietly sliding the door open, the warm, morning breeze blowing through her hair, and smiled as she closed her eyes, enjoying the freedom at the moment. The sun was just rising over the horizon, making the sky turn a beautiful blue, and Ariella knew she'd never seen anything more beautiful in her life. Then again, John's blue eyes would have to come first in that category. She leaned against the balcony, running her hands along it, and just stood there, staring out at the sunrise, and thought about the past four years without John. It was almost as if fate was giving her a second chance with him and after what she heard him say to her before falling asleep, Ariella knew John was truly the one for her. Jessica had screwed up the first time, but nothing and nobody was going to mess up their relationship this time, unless it was over her dead body.

John groaned when he heard his cell phone’s alarm go off, reaching out blindly for it, his hand almost knocking the lamp off the nightstand. “Damn.” He groaned, yawning more, and turned it off, sitting up slowly in bed. “Ariella?” He called out, frowning, and looked around for her. He quickly got out of bed, stretching his muscles and scratched himself, yawning again. John walked over to the veranda and smiled, seeing she was standing outside. Quietly, he stepped out behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. “Morning.” He greeted softly, kissing the top of her head.

Smiling, Ariella leaned against his chest, and continued staring out on the horizon. “Mornin’ blue eyes.” She softly greeted back, kissing his arm, and ran a hand through her hair as she sighed. “I didn’t wake you did I?” She asked fearfully, not wanting to be the reason for him waking up, especially when she knew it hadn’t even been an hour since she’d gotten up before him.

“No, you didn’t wake me, my alarm did.” John assured her with a smile. “Are you hungry? I got to eat something before I do anything. That and I need some coffee in me.” He peered over the railing, shaking his head, not believing how busy the city of Houston was already.

Nodding back at him, Ariella giggled when she heard her stomach rumbling and sighed, knowing she hadn’t eaten since the day before at the barbeque. “Yeah, I am actually.” She softly admitted, turning around to stare up into his blue eyes, and stroked his cheek gently with the back of her hand. “Do you want to take a shower first?”

John lifted his arm and sniffed his armpit, grinning playfully at her. “I’m still fresh.” He joked, leading her back inside. “I’ll eat then go work out before showering. After a workout…Well, let’s just say you won’t come near me without a clothespin on your nose.” He picked up the phone and dialed room service, asking her, “What do you want to eat?”

Ariella laughed at him as she shook her head, making her way back inside with him, and closed the door behind her as she walked over, looking over the menu. “Just get me the small breakfast with sausage links, scrambled eggs with cheese, and extra syrup.” She answered, setting the menu down on the bed, and stood up. “I’m gonna go take a quick shower, is that alright?”

John nodded, quickly placing an order that was rather large. He was starving. After she was in the bathroom and he was off the phone, John sat on the bed and flicked the television on, needing some sound in the now quiet room. He quickly changed into a beater with a loose pair of shorts, his usual workout attire, grinning when he heard a knock on the door. “Quick service.” He murmured to himself and went over to answer the door. “Ariel, food’s here!” He called out, taking the trolley from the deliverer, and tipped him before shutting the door behind him.

Ariella heard that as she just stepped out of the shower, sighing in pure contentment, and felt refreshed as she wiped the mirror off of steam. Her reflection stared back at her and she couldn’t help, but start smiling. Her eyes held the light and fire that they had four years ago, before meeting Marc, and she was glowing with happiness. She wasn’t pregnant, but she was thrilled to be on the road with John, glad he was finally in her life again. She whistled, brushing her hair, and pulled it into a low ponytail before slipping on a pair of blue jeans with a red baby t-shirt and walked out of the bathroom. The bruises on her neck covered up with makeup she’d put on and groaned as the smell of food entered her nostrils, “Mmm, I’m starving!”

“So am I.” He replied, handing her a plate before loading his own. He sat it down on the table, pouring himself a mug of coffee as well as a glass of orange juice. “Eat up woman, you’re scrawny.” John teased, sitting down and digging into his food with gusto, his eyes never leaving her though. She looked almost insulted by the comment as she smacked his arm before sitting down across from him, and proceeded to eat her own breakfast. She’d finished before him and sipped down the last of her orange juice before standing up, throwing her paper plate and plastic utensils away. She then walked over to the bed and plopped down on it, sitting Indian style. Ariella flipped through the channels, looking happier than she had in a long time. John shook his head, eating a second plate of everything. “You’re missing out.” He teased again, waving a forkful of biscuits and gravy in her direction. He glanced up at the clock and frowned, realizing he wasn’t going to have much time to spend with her, not wanting to leave her alone so soon. “You know babe, I think I’ll skip the workout today and just hang with you. How’s that sound?” He asked casually, watching her carefully.

A frown formed on her lips as Ariella stood up from the bed and walked over, wrapping her arms around his neck, and softly ordered. “I’ll be just fine by myself. You need to go workout, John. You can’t afford to miss out on it. Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. I might go out and shop for a bit.” She winked at him, patting his hand in reassurance. “Trust me, I’m a big girl and can manage on my own for a few hours.”

John sighed, knowing she was right, but he still didn’t want to leave her alone. “Alright, but I won’t be gone for more than a few hours.” He promised, bending down to lightly brush his lips against hers. “If you go out, be careful. This city isn’t the safest sometimes, stick to the more uptown places, alright?” He didn’t mean to sound like a parent, but he tended to worry about things like that, especially when it came to her. “I’ll be back shortly.” He kissed her again after she nodded back at him in understanding and walked out to do his quick workout.
Chapter 9

Ariella could only stand there, touching her lips with her fingertips, and felt her cheeks immediately grow hot from the kiss. She collapsed back on the bed, staring up at the ceiling, somewhat in a daze, and sighed deeply. “Why am I so shocked?” She questioned herself, slowly sitting down on the bed, and smiled as his lips still lingered on hers. She quickly grabbed her purse, making sure she had an extra key card, and walked out of the room toward the lobby, wondering what adventures awaited her on this day. Deciding to check out the store in the hotel, Ariella walked in, seeing a few other people in there, and began searching for a trinket, smiling when she found one she liked. She continued looking, not having anything better to do, and jumped when a hand tapped her on the shoulder. She turned around, staring up into the most intense blue eyes she’d ever seen in her life, and swallowed nervously, wondering who this was. “C-Can I help you?” She asked meekly, seeing his hand rake through his short blonde hair.

“Hello.” Adam greeted, flashing his brilliant smile at the woman before him. “Forgive me if this seems rude, but I seen you and just had to introduce myself. I’m Adam, Adam Copeland.” He held out a strong hand to her, entranced by her appearance from the moment he saw her walk in.

Swallowing nervously and smiling a little at him, Ariella slowly slid her hand into his much larger one, shaking it, and slid it out quickly as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Hi, I’m Ar-Esmeralda.” She lied, knowing there was no way she was going to give away her real identity to this complete stranger.

Adam nodded, his blue eyes twinkling back at her. “A beautiful name for a beautiful woman.” He said softly, reluctantly releasing her hand. “Are you staying here?” He asked, gesturing to the hotel. “If you are, I would love to take you out for a late dinner.”

Slowly backing away from him, smiling nervously, Ariella swallowed again as she replied, “Thank you so much for the offer…Adam, but I’m with someone else. You’re very sweet though, but I’m going to have to decline.” Her voice was soft and sweet, hoping he would leave her alone, and ran a hand through her hair, trying to put some space between them.

Nodding, Adam hid a frown from her and studied her a bit more carefully as he asked, “Are you with one of the wrestlers?” He didn’t like being turned down, especially if she was nothing more than a ringrat.

“Yes I am actually.” She replied happily, her eyes sparkling at the mere thought of John, but wasn’t about to reveal that information to him either. “I’m sorry to cut this short, but I seriously have to get going. It was nice meeting you…uh…Adam. Take care!” She quickly made her way out of the shop, forgetting about her trinket, and was lost in the sea of people, hoping he didn’t find her. Adam watched her go with narrowed eyes, wondering just who she was with. He walked out of the shop and went to the front desk, using all of his charm on the rather homely desk clerk, describing Esmeralda to her. His eyes widened when he found out who she was with and that her name wasn’t really Esmeralda.

~*~*~*~*~*~

John quickly made his way to the gym, nodding to some of the guys he passed. He went straight for the iron, needing something to take his mind off Ariella and how good she tasted. ‘Man, you’re going to drive yourself nuts…’ He thought, unable to keep from smiling. After he had worked up a fine sweat, he stopped, replacing the bar and sitting up, frowning when he seen David punching a bag like he was going to kill it. “You alright man?” He asked curiously.

David looked over at who the voice belonged to, smiling a little upon seeing John, and walked over. They shook hands and gave each other a brotherly hug. “Hey man, great to see ya! I thought you weren’t do back for another two days?” He asked John, raising an eyebrow, but was glad one of his good friends was back on the road nonetheless.

“I wasn’t. I’m not even supposed to show tonight. I was planning on doing a surprise visit, but…” John trailed off, a thought flickering through his mind suddenly. “Anyways, I’m here. What’s been up? Anything new?”

Shrugging his shoulders, David ran a hand through his hair and couldn’t help, but sigh heavily. He knew he could confide in John as he stopped working out and cleared his throat. “Can you keep a secret?” He finally asked, deciding to trust John with his problem.

John frowned for a moment, thinking he was being asked that way too much lately, but shrugged, lowering his own voice as he spoke, “Yeah man, what’s up?” His blue eyes shone with concern, knowing David’s personal life wasn’t the best at the moment.

Clearing his throat, David proceeded to explain things to him about the woman he’d picked up a few nights prior and bringing her on the road with him. He’d slept with her, much to John’s shock, and then got to the point of his entire secret. “I asked Angela for a divorce last night over the phone.” He stated, raking his hands through his short black hair, and plopped down on a nearby bench.

John’s eyes widened and a whistle sounded from his lips. “Damn man, you know if anyone finds out about…her…that you’re fucked.” He clucked his tongue, causing David to nod with a heavy sigh.

David lowered his gaze to the floor, knowing John was right, but he couldn’t help how he felt. “I know that, man, but she’s different. I just…I can’t get her off my mind and I knew I couldn’t let her go after what we did that night. I can’t explain it, but you HAVE to keep quiet about this.” His voice remained low and quiet, almost audible, and sighed deeper. “Anyway, what’s been going on with you?”

“I got it, Dave, I won’t tell anyone. Umm…Vacation didn’t go exactly as planned.” He hesitantly said, rubbing the back of his neck, and proceeded to tell David about Ariella and what had happened with her, to her. “If you ever see a guy fitting that description, pound his ass for me.” John had described what his sleaze ball of a cousin looked like and would do so with his other friends incase Marc was stupid enough to follow them on the road.

Punching his fist in his hand, a killer look coming over his brown eyes, David slowly stood from the bench and nodded. “Come to think of it, something happened last night to…her. She had bruises all over her neck and it looked like handprints. If it’s that puny motherfucker, his ass is grass!” He growled out dangerously, staring over at John intensely, and decided he’d had enough of his workout before bidding John goodbye. He walked out, instantly colliding with someone, and looked down, seeing a petite young thing in his midst. “Whoa there!” He held her still. “You alright?” He asked, his brown eyes softening at her midnight blue orbs.

Slowly backing away from his monster, Ariella felt truly terrified as she swallowed nervously, holding her hands up in peace. “I’m s-sorry. I didn’t mean to bump into you. I was just trying to find my way back to my room.” Her midnight blue eyes pleaded with this monster of a man to release her and knew he was probably one of the wrestlers John was taking to her about earlier.

John shook his head, no longer feeling up to working out, wondering if maybe Marc was around, beating up on other women. He quickly got up and followed David, frowning when he seen Ariella and the look on her face. “Dave, meet Ariella.” He said, walking up to take her hand, nodding when David released her. “Ariella, this is my friend, Dave.”

“H-H-He’s huge!” She exclaimed, covering her mouth instantly, and buried her face in John’s chest, trying embarrassed at the moment. David chuckled as he shook his head, having a feeling it was Ariella, and told them he’d catch them later before heading upstairs to his hotel room. Ariella looked up from John’s chest and into his eyes; hers filled with both fear and surprise, and swallowed nervously as she laughed a little. “Sorry…”

Smiling down at her, John bent down to kiss her lips lightly and replied, “Don’t be. He has that effect on people. But Dave is a giant teddy bear, if you ever need anything or we get separated and you see him, he’ll help you out.” John linked his hand with hers. “Doing some shopping are you?”

“I was…” She softly whispered, looking back over at the shop she’d met Adam at, and felt her words trail off as she swallowed nervously. For some reason, Adam unnerved her and she didn’t understand why. Ariella decided she wasn’t going to tell John about him, knowing she was paranoid, and smiled up at him as she stroked his face. “I didn’t interrupt your workout did I?” She asked innocently, her eyes wide with apprehension.

John shook his head and replied, “No, you didn’t. I…I just wasn’t in the mood to lift weights and stuff today.” He looked around, nodding to a couple of co-workers who passed by them. “Want to go shopping still? I could take you around.” He offered, smiling down at her.

Ariella nodded, feeling much better with John by her side, and ran a hand through her hair as they walked into the shop she was previously in. She sighed a breath of relief when she seen Adam nowhere to be found and bought the trinket she’d had her eyes on earlier. “No, I’m paying for it, John.” She protested, shoving him out of the way, and handed the cashier some money from her wallet, thanked her, and walked out, a grumbling John behind her.

“You know, being independent is a good thing, not to mention sexy in a woman, but would it really kill you to let me spoil you or something?” He asked, pulling her into a clothing store. His blue eyes lit up when he seen a sky blue dress and took it off the rack. “Would you try this on for me?”

Ariella gaped at the dress as she stared at him in shock, instantly becoming shy, and bit her bottom lip. “That’s not me, John.” She quietly admitted, knowing she wouldn’t look good in it, especially with the dull body she had. “It wouldn’t look right…”

John held the dress up, knowing exactly how it would look on her. “Please?” He begged, giving her the puppy dog look he had perfected. “You’ll look great in it! Just try it on?”

Sighing exasperatedly, Ariella reluctantly complied with his request as she walked into the dressing room, changing into the dress, and walked out, staring John in the face. Her midnight blue eyes stood out in the dress as her black hair pooled over her shoulders and down her back, hugging her waist perfectly. Ariella bit her bottom lip; her hands clasped in front of her, and couldn’t believe she was actually wearing something this…revealing. “Happy now?” She mumbled, not liking wearing something like this, but if it made John happy, that’s all she cared about.

John’s eyes widened appreciatively though he frowned when he seen a man stop to gape at her. “Ya mind pal?” He demanded, walking over to block Ariella from anyone viewing her. “You look gorgeous.” He whispered to her. “But go change back before I get jealous and deck someone.” He already knew he was buying that dress.

Giggling, Ariella shook her head as she tapped his nose with her finger. “You are too damned cute when you get jealous.” She commented, laughing when he threatened to tickle her, and changed out of the dress and back to her normal clothing. She walked back out, handing the dress to him, and asked, “Ready to go somewhere else?” She wanted to get his mind off that dress, hoping he didn’t buy it.

“In a minute.” John said, walking over to the counter to pay for the dress. He returned to her, grinning at the look of exasperation on her face with a bag in his hand. “I couldn’t resist, you’ll wear it for me though won’t you?” His blue eyes twinkled back at her and smiled. “Now we can go somewhere else.”

Rolling her eyes back at him, Ariella shook her head as she looked around the hotel, seeing there were no more shops around, and decided to head back up to the room. “I’m not wearing that dress out in public, John.” She stated emphatically, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and stared at him defiantly.

John took her and, dragging her into the elevator and pinned her against the wall, his hands over her head. “Believe me, I already know this.” He whispered, bending down to kiss her lightly. “You don’t’ want me to go to jail for fending off the other guys, do you? You can wear it for me…when we’re alone.”

Swallowing nervously as her big midnight blue eyes widened, Ariella felt her cheeks grow hot again as they changed four shades of red, causing her to turn away from him. “I hate it when you do that.” She whispered, covering her cheeks with her hands, and sighed when he lowered her hands from her face, staring into his beautiful blue eyes. His lips still lingered on hers. “You really want me to wear that dress for you when we’re alone?” Just the mere thought caused her entire body to do a full shiver, hoping he didn’t notice, and her mouth suddenly dried up like a desert.

Nodding, a serious look came over his face, his blue eyes never leaving hers, and whispered against her lips huskily, “Just for me.” The doors dinged open, causing John to growl, hating that their moment had been disturbed. “Looks like you got a reprieve…” He murmured, brushing his knuckles over her pink cheeks, and lead the way down to their room.

Ariella couldn’t help, but tremble a little as he lead them into the room, causing her to instantly walk over to the bed, and sat down on it. She ran a hand through her hair and looked up at John, seeing him getting clothes from his bag, and knew what he meant what he told her in the elevator. ‘Down girl, DOWN!’ She coached herself mentally, trying to will the butterflies away from her stomach, but couldn’t help it as she suddenly felt faint.

John looked up from setting out his clothes for the night, a frown creasing his forehead. “You alright?” He asked, quickly crossing the room to kneel in front of her, pressing a hand against her forehead.

“Y-Yeah…I’m fine…” She stuttered out, quickly sliding off the bed, and backed away from him as she looked into his eyes. She bolted into the bathroom and closed the door behind her, trying to breathe regularly, and looked in the mirror, seeing the color in her cheeks that were flaming red. “Jesus calm down, Ariella!” She berated herself, turning the water on in the sink, and splashed cold water on her face, trying to calm her racing heart that was beating a tattoo in her chest.

John frowned and returned to getting his things around. “Calm down, man.” He scolded himself. “You got the woman here with you, stop scaring her.” He gritted his teeth, wondering if she was alright, but guessing she wouldn’t appreciate him coming to the door and asking. John settled on the couch, flipping through the channels on the television, not watching anything, just lost in thought.

After a few minutes, Ariella finally walked back out, feeling a little better and not as faint as she smiled over at John. She sat down on the couch beside him and crossed her legs as she stared at the TV. Though, she wasn’t paying attention to what was on it, just the man beside her, and being this close to him was causing her blood to light on fire. ‘I have to calm down. This is getting ridiculous.’ She thought, raking a hand through her hair, and cleared her throat. “Umm what time do we have to leave?”

Glancing up at the clock, John couldn’t believe how fast time had gone by already, and replied, “Soon. We have to get there before the show even starts. Script readings, wardrobe if needed…” He explained, glancing at her, trying to figure out what was going through her mind. “I’ll be showering here in a minute; I like to arrive ready to roll.”

Ariella simply nodded at him, her gaze fixated on the floor, and leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees as she cleared her throat. “I need some water.” She announced, standing up and walking into the kitchen, picking up a Styrofoam cup and filling it with ice cold water. She wished she could pour a million ice cubes down her pants at the moment to cool her off, though she knew that wouldn’t even do the trick.

John carried his stuff to the bathroom, turning on the shower and making sure the water was cold. He stood there, letting the cold water cool him down. Finally, he stepped out, dressing quickly. He brushed his teeth, splashed some cologne and put his hat on. “You need in there?” He asked, stepping out and looking at her, thinking he might need another cold shower.

Shaking her head back at him and downing her fifth cup of water, Ariella swallowed nervously as she turned around to face him, a smile on her face. “No, I took a shower this morning, remember?” She teased, winking at him, trying to lighten the tension between them that had formed a little.

John smiled, sitting on the edge of the bed and pulled on his boots. “You changing before we leave?” He asked conversationally, lacing the ties. “You don’t have to if you don’t want to, you look great to me.” He winked at her, causing her to blush a little more at him.

Ariella shook her head as she smiled softly and ran a hand through her hair as she replied, “Nope, I’m wearing this. I’m comfortable in this and it’s too hot to wear something more.” She eyed him suspiciously, remembering how he acted in the clothing store earlier.

John’s eyes drew together as he regarded the look she gave him. “Hey! I’m not going to act like a jerk again. “He protested, realizing what was going on in her head. He laughed, standing up, and held his hand out to her. “Ready to go see how I make a living?”

Sighing jokingly like it was the most painful thing she’d ever have to experience; Ariella hesitantly slid her hand in his and allowed him to pull her up from the couch. She grabbed her purse before he led her out of the door and toward the elevator, smiling when they entwined their fingers together. ‘We need to talk about the kisses later.’ She thought, branding it in her mind to have the discussion with him after this adventure to the arena.
Chapter 10

John was in a great mood, considering what a shitty week he'd had. He held open the SUV door for her, grinning when she shook her head and slid in. Once he was inside, he turned on the radio, bobbing his head in time to the music as he drove, getting his adrenaline going. Then he glanced at Ariella and shook his head. Maybe that was too much adrenaline. Ariella giggled at him uncontrollably the entire way to the arena, not believing how hyper he was, and wondered what he was like at his job. “I really hope all that energy will be spent before the night is over with.” She stated, winking at him, and laughed when he shot her a deadly look. She ran her hand through her hair, and stared out the window as the sun began to slowly descend on the horizon, not believing how truly beautiful it was.

John had to bite back a comment; very tempted to tell her if it wasn't she could help him with it but refrained. He grinned when they reached the arena, turning into the employee's parking lot. “You ready?” He asked, smiling when she nodded. “Just stick with me, everything will go smooth.”

“Why do I have a feeling I'm going to end up having a heart attack by the time this night is through?” She questioned fearfully, sliding her hand into his, and followed him toward the arena, biting her bottom lip. She looked around at all the fans who were cheering for John and immediately lowered her head, not wanting anyone to catch a glimpse of her, and sighed with relief once they were in the arena. The craziness caused her eyes to widen as she looked around, keep her gaze on the floor, and kept her hand firmly in John's.

John glanced down at her. “You alright?” He asked, shoving his way through the narrow corridor, gripping a firm grip on her hand. “Ariel, you alright?” He asked again, since she didn’t answer him the first time once they had more room, his blue eyes narrowing in concern.

Nodding slowly back at him, Ariella was overwhelmed with how many people were in the arena and ran a hand through her hair. “Yeah I'm fine, just a little...shocked.” She wasn't sure if that was the right word to use for this situation, but then again, all she wanted to do was get away from the crazy crowd that was before them. “Sorry, just not used to being around a lot of people…” She admitted biting her bottom lip as her gaze fell to the floor again.

Adam's eyes narrowed when he seen John and... Ariella appear, quickly excusing himself from the conversation he'd been having with one of the sage crew to walk over to them. “Hello Cena.” He greeted, flashing a quick smile, his eyes straying onto Ariella. “Nice seeing you again... Ariella.” He said softly, using her real name that he’d found out from the woman at the hotel earlier on.

About to reply back to her, John stopped and froze when Adam appeared, frowning when he was let in on the fact these two had already met. “I guess no introductions are needed.” He said slowly, keeping his grip on Ariella’s hand tighter. John didn’t trust Adam for one second, not one.

Ariella gasped when he called her by her real name, instantly scooting closer to John, and kept her grip firmly on his, tightening it a little more. ‘How did he know my real name?!’ She thought frantically, looking up into John's confused blue eyes, and hoped he didn't desert her because of this.

Adam eyed John, those icy blue eyes of his boring into the man’s, and nonchalantly stated, “Ariella and I met at a shop today.” He glanced at her again, his eyes glinting for a brief second. “Though I must've heard wrong, I could have sworn you said you're name was Esmeralda.”

Ariella was trembling by now as she ran a hand through her hair, swallowing hard and finally found the courage to look up in his blue eyes. “I don't give my real name out to strangers and however you found out my name, I intend to find out, Adam.” She spat back at him angrily, releasing John's hand, and placed her hands on her hips. “You better just leave me alone if you know what's good for you. I've been kicked around long enough by men like you so just go shove your dick elsewhere!” She shouted, causing everyone to stop and stare at her, and instantly backed away before walking down the hallway. She could hear cheers behind her, and felt her heart pounding fiercely in her chest, not believing she just did that.

John grabbed Adam by the collar of his shirt roughly, his jaw tightening. “I'm telling you now Copeland, stay away from her!” He said threateningly. “She's not one of your little floozies, you got me boy?” Disgusted, he tossed Adam back before going after Ariella. “Why didn't you tell me about him?” He asked softly, falling into step besides her.

Adam retreated quickly, pissed beyond belief that that little bitch had humiliated him before his co-workers. ‘She's going to fucking regret that!’ He vowed before stalking off to get ready for his match that night.

“John, not now.” Her voice was low and cool, angered that Adam had found out her real name, and sighed heavily, not believing what she'd said in front of him. She didn't speak a word to John as he guided her into his dressing room and immediately walked over, sitting on the couch, and kept her gaze lowered to the floor. Never in her entire life had Ariella said such vile things, she was always a shy girl, but on this night, something inside of her snapped that she had no control over.

John didn't press the issue any farther; just lead her down another small hallway, finally halting in front of room with his last name on it, grateful he wasn't sharing with anyone tonight. “In here.” He said, trying not to sound gruff as he opened the door, ushering her inside.

Not saying a single word to him, Ariella crossed her arms in front of her chest and looked over at the wall, sighing heavily, and knew she should've told John about Adam. ‘It's over, it's done with.’ She thought, trying to forget about it, but something inside of her was quaking and didn't feel right. Adam was going to come after her, she knew it, and she would be ready this time. She wasn't going to allow what happened to her with Marc happen with anyone else ever again, unless it was over her dead, mangled, lifeless corpse.

John didn't say a word, just walked around the room, wondering what he was doing here. He wasn't even scheduled for anything, especially on this show, though he also knew his presence would probably stir things up a bit, which is what he liked best. “All you have to do is sit here. I'm going to wait and see what's going on before going and harassing someone.” He said, trying to get her to smile.

She still didn't speak a word to him, too involved in her own thoughts, and sighed heavily, raking a hand through her hair. Adam had really stirred up her nervous emotions and wondered how he could've found out her name. ‘I told him it was Esmeralda. How the fuck did he find out my real name?’ She wondered silently, chewing on her thumbnail, and tried to rack her brain to figure it out. Sighing, John knew he wasn't going to get anything out of her and walked over to sit on the bench, clasping his hands before him, wondering what the deal with Adam was. He wanted to ask her but he didn't want her going off on him either, not when they were actually getting along. Ariella noticed the concern in his blue eyes and sighed heavily, raking a hand through her hair, and cleared her throat before speaking. “He tapped my shoulder in the shop and introduced himself and I told him my name was Esmeralda and then he asked me out and I told him I wasn't interested and I was already with someone and when he asked who I was with, I escaped.” She took a deep breath once she finished and waited for him to explode on her.

John frowned, running a hand down his face. “You did the right thing Ariel, Copeland is a freaking creep.” He stood up, walking over to the water cooler, filling one of the small paper cups with cold water. His mind was racing, knowing her embarrassing Adam in public wasn't going to go over well with the egotistical blonde. “Maybe we should just leave...” He muttered, not meaning to say it out loud, but once again, his mouth was running off without him realizing it.

Staring up at him and sighing heavily, Ariella shook her head as she stood up, the tears already stinging her eyes, and stated, “No, I think it would be better if I just went home. I've already caused enough trouble.” Her voice was low and quiet as she began to tremble; knowing the wrath of Adam was coming, and couldn't stop the tears from sliding down her cheeks even if she wanted to.

“Hey, hey, hey! Don't cry!” John walked over to her, pulling her into his arms. “You did right by telling him off. Backing down would've been worse because he would have known he could push you around.” He soothed, rubbing her back affectionately, trying to get her to calm down. “You're not going home; Adam will keep away from you if he knows what's good for him.” John tilted her head up so she was looking at him, into his eyes, wanting her to see he meant what he said. “I'm here all right? I'm going to protect you.”

Shaking her head, Ariella stepped back from him as she wiped her tears away, sniffling a little, and wrapped her arms around herself. “I shouldn't have come here. I knew it was a big mistake and I'd end up getting in trouble one way or the other.” She stared at the wall, her back turned to John, and felt her heart quench with hurt at the mere thought of leaving him so soon. “You can't always be there to protect me, John.”

“You can't run away from everything Ariel.” John said softly, reaching over the stand for a tissue, holding it out to her. “We can deal with this, together. Just let me in Ariel, I want to help you.”

Hearing him say that, Ariella sat down on the couch and took the tissue he offered her, wiping the tears away from her eyes. “I know I can't run from everything and I'm trying to let you in. It's just...I don't want my heart broken again.” She softly admitted, looking up into his worried blue eyes, and sighed as she looked back down at the floor again.

John kneeled down in front of her, placing his hands on her knees and squeezing gently. “I won't break your heart again Ariella.” He whispered, his blue eyes pleading with her to believe him. “Just let me prove that to you.”

Nodding, Ariella looked back at him, seeing all the sincerity in his eyes, and scooted closer as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “I'm sorry for not telling you about him. I just didn't want to cause trouble and figured I'd never see him again. It just unnerves me that he found out my real name when I clearly told him it was Esmeralda.”

John moved up onto the couch, pulling her onto his lap, frowning slightly. “You wouldn't be causing trouble, if anyone approaches you like that again, let me know so I can deal with it.” Adam finding out her name was bothering him too, but he was going to admit it to her. “He might have asked around...”

“But who could've known, John? I didn't speak to anyone until earlier on in the shop...” Her voice trailed off as she stood up, suddenly realizing where he'd found out the information, and glared down at her boyfriend. “Damn it! He found out from that woman in the shop I was talking to!” She sighed heavily, raking a hand through her hair, and suddenly felt like the world was crashing down around her.

His blue eyes darkened instantly, not liking Adam snooping. “I handle him, don't worry.” He promised, not knowing what Adam had in mind for Ariella. All he knew was he didn't like how a bunch of guys were all after her.

“Do we really need to stay here any longer, John?” She asked meekly, leaning her head on his shoulder, and tried to calm down her heart that was beating furiously in her chest. It was a mixture of fear and passion, not a good combination, and all Ariella wanted to do was go back to the hotel and relax for the remainder of the night with John.

John shook his head, knowing she was terrified right now, and replied softly, “No, I'm not scheduled for anything tonight, I was just going to show my face but they don't need to see it.” He smiled down at her, standing up and pulling her up with him. “We can go have dinner in the room... you can wear that dress for me...” He smiled playfully, tossing stuff back into his bag, and grinned when she began to blush.

Ariella blushed as she shook her head at him, smacking him playfully on the arm, and allowed him to guide her out of his dressing room. Her hand clasped firmly in his as her eyes remained on the ground, keeping close to him since it was a madhouse in the arena, and hoped they didn't run into Adam again. They didn't have that sort of luck though because Adam popped up as soon as they rounded the corner, smiling charmingly. “John... just the man I was looking for. Vince asked to see you alone in his office.” He said, gesturing down the hallway. “Something about putting you in tonight's show.”

Ariella's eyes widened as she kept her grip firmly in John's, refusing to let him go, and kept her gaze lowered to the floor. This Adam guy was unnerving her and she could already feel herself trembling with fear, holding her throat absentmindedly, and looked up at John with fear filled eyes. “John, we're supposed to go back to the hotel, remember?” She reminded, hoping he would tell his boss that he couldn't do it on that night, and Ariella could go with him.

John stared down at Adam, arching an eyebrow. “Vince knows I have the night off so he'll have to deal with it.” He said coldly, tightening his grip on Ariella's hand. “Yeah babe, I remember.” He leaned down to kiss the side of her head before nodding coolly at Adam. “Check you later man.” He ushered her past Adam, not believing a word that came out of that's man's mouth.

Adam watched them walk away; balling his hands into fists before deciding it was time for him to head back to the hotel too. The bitch was smarter than he gave her credit for, but it was nothing he hadn’t handled before. He would have her yet, just had to wait for the right time and place to do so. John was overprotective, that much Adam could see instantly, and knew Ariella wasn’t as strong as she showed earlier on that night. Licking his lips hungrily, Adam stalked down to his dressing room to retrieve his things, not able to wait to have Ariella in his bed instead of John’s.

A huge breath of relief escaped her lips as she allowed John to escort her out of the arena. The ride back to the hotel was made in silence, Ariella's eyes staring out at the city lights of Houston, and tried to calm down a little. She knew Adam was lying about John needing to see his boss, all so he could get her alone, and the mere thought caused Ariella to shiver involuntarily. ‘Just leave me alone, please.’ She thought pleadingly, running a hand through her hair, and decided to push Adam and Marc in the back of her mind for the time being. Tonight was about her and John and nothing was going to ruin it, not even her past.
Chapter 11

John parked the SUV and quickly got her upstairs, unheedingly bolting the door, sensing Ariella's apprehension, feeling slightly paranoid himself. “You hungry?” He asked softly, watching as she walked over to peer out the patio door. Shaking her head, Ariella looked out the window, the view not as beautiful as what she thought the previous night. Her mind was worried about Adam, about Marc, about everything, and sighed heavily. She rubbed the goose bumps from her arms as she closed her eyes, hating the fact that she couldn't even relax in the safety of their hotel room. John sighed, running a hand through his short hair. “If you want to leave just say so. I won't have to do a show until the night after tomorrow so we could drive, maybe take in some sights on the way?” He offered, trying to put her mind at ease. “Let's just get the hell out of here babe.”

“No, we'll leave tomorrow. I don't want to drive right now or go anywhere. I just want to stay here and...Relax.” Ariella hesitated on that last word as she bit her bottom lip, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, and sighed. She wanted to say she wanted to spend time with him, but didn't want to sound too forward as she ran a hand through her hair and walked away from the window. She ventured over to her bag and pulled out her trinket she'd bought earlier on, staring at it, and sighed as she sat on the floor, beginning to wrap it in the paper so it didn't break while traveling.

Sighing resignedly, John glanced down at her. “What’s that?” He asked softly before walking over to turn on the Jacuzzi, planning on getting her in it, hoping the hot water would calm her down. “You want to get in here?” He then asked, pulling off his beater, stuffing his hands in his pockets. “Maybe relax a little?”

Staring over at it, Ariella placed the trinket back in her bag before standing up, clearing her throat, and sighed. “I didn't bring a bathing suit. I didn't think I'd need it.” She admitted, running a hand through her hair, and plopped down on the bed with a heavy sigh. “You can go in there though, John. I'll just lie down and watch TV.”

John almost pointed out she could wear her bra and panties but felt she might take it the wrong way and shrugged. “All right, was just a...” He trailed off, pulling a pair of swimming trunks out of his duffel bag, never going anywhere without them. He disappeared into the bathroom only to return a moment in blue trunks hanging off his hips. He glanced at her before stepping into the Jacuzzi, sighing with contentment as the hot water engulfed him. “You sure you won't join me?” His voice was low, almost seductive, even though he hadn’t meant it to sound that way.

Ariella did a full body shiver at the tone in his voice as she bit her bottom lip, looking down at her clothes, and swallowed nervously. She walked over toward him, bending down, and ran her hand through the water, moaning at how warm and wonderful it felt. Her eyes opened as she stared into his, seeing them twinkling, and sighed in defeat. “What am I supposed to wear in there?” She asked, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and stared at him with a raised eyebrow.

John smiled slowly, his eyes darkening to a deeper shade of blue. “Wear what you have on under those clothes...” He reached out with a wet finger to slowly trail his finger down the front of her red shirt for a moment before pulling back, scooting over. “C'mon Ariel... I promise I won't bite...”

“No, you'll just nibble.” She countered swiftly, seeing the color of his eyes darken, and swallowed hard before standing up. Unsnapping her jeans with a flick of her wrist, Ariella slid them down her legs, kicking the jeans away, and then pulled her shirt up and over her body. She tossed it to the floor with the rest of her clothes, already having kicked off her socks and shoes earlier, and was left clad in her matching blood red bra and panties in front of him. She slowly walked over, her eyes never leaving his, and stepped inside the water, immediately moaning at the incredible feeling that washed over her.

John's breath caught in his throat when she stripped down to nothing but her bra and panties. He licked his suddenly dry lips, fighting back the arousal that coursed through him, not trying to rush her into anything. Though he was all for getting out of the Jacuzzi and heading for bed. “Feel good?” He asked huskily, her moan sending shivers down his spine.

“Very.” Her soft, sultry voice flowed throughout the room, slowly sinking down into the water, and sighed in contentment as her eyes drifted shut. She leaned against the edge, the jets pounding away at her back, and didn't care if her hair got wet or not. Her eyes opened when she felt John's eyes on her and smiled over at him. Her bra and panties stuck to her like a second skin as they began to slowly become see through, but she didn’t notice it though. “What?”

John had to avert his gaze, reciting the alphabet forwards and backwards, trying to keep from getting an erection. “Nothing.” He muttered his voice almost gruff. When he was slightly calmed down more, he opened his eyes, staring into hers. “I'm glad you decided to stay with me Ariel.” He said finally, reaching out to stroke her leg before leaning back again. “It means a lot to me, having you here.”

Smiling softly back at him, Ariella nodded as she ran a hand through her hair. “I'm glad I'm with you too, John.” Her voice was soft and low, feeling her sensations run wild when he touched her leg, and smirked as her eyes locked with his. “So much for wearing that dress.” She winked, giggling a little, and leaned further into the water, her body sinking further down as the jets stopped, causing her to pout. “Hey!”

“The night's not over yet Ariella...” He whispered, winking back at her. He smiled slightly when the jets stopped, moving forward to lean over her, his body mere inches from hers as he found a button and pressed it, the jets shooting back on. “That better?” He asked his mouth right by her ear.

Ariella's body shivered when she felt his hot breath on her ear, causing her to simply nod, and seen his very delicious neck in her eyesight. It took everything inside of her not to kiss it as she bit her bottom lip, swallowing hard, and could already feel her cheeks grow hot. “Y-Yeah...It's fine.” She managed to rasp out, her heart pounding fiercely in her chest while her palms began to sweat.

John instantly noticed the change in her, recognizing it for what it was and smiled slightly. “You alright?” He asked, brushing his lips against her cheek before reaching out a hand to cup her chin. “You look flushed babe.” His voice was a whisper, his lips almost touching hers; he was trying hard not to kiss her but knew he was about to anyway.

“John...” She breathed out, their foreheads touching, pressing together, and ran her fingertips down the side of his face. They trailed down his neck to his chest, her eyes never leaving his, and felt her breathing already becoming ragged with him being this close to her. Her cheeks were growing even more flushed along with the rest of her body, causing her to tremble against him, and snaked her tongue out, licking her dry lips, wondering what was going to happen.

Not able to resist the temptation any further, John quickly filled the space between them, pressing his lips to hers. He groaned, feeling her fingertips on his chest, desire coursing through him again. “Ariel...” He whispered against her lips, kissing the corner of her mouth, working his kisses along to the other corner.

Ariella was in complete heaven as she felt his lips descend on hers, and ran her hands down his back, wanting to be even closer to him. She arched her mouth and neck into him, moaning out uncontrollably, loving the feeling his lips against her body. “Mmm John...” She breathed out in a whispered gasp, loving the feeling of his muscles rippling beneath her fingertips. “J-John...” She choked out, the passion erupting inside of her body intense, and tried to keep her mind straight though it was almost impossible to do so at this point.

John pulled her against him, trailing his kisses down her neck, running his hands down her back to cup her ass, moaning from deep inside his chest. “Ariel... if you want me to stop, tell me now.” He whispered raggedly, fairly certain it would kill him to stop but not wanting to rush her either.

Ariella could barely get a grasp on reality at this point in time let alone tell him to stop as she arched further against his body, but something suddenly popped into her mind. She shoved John away from her, breathing incredibly heavily, and felt her body trembling as she turned the jets off, feeling the tears sting her eyes. What was he going to think of her after what she was about to say? Taking a deep, shaky breath, Ariella stared back at a confused John and burst into tears, sinking further down into the water. “I-I can't...I want to, but...” Her words trailed off, knowing she wasn't making any sense, and slowly stepped out of the Jacuzzi. Wrapping a towel around her body, Ariella bit her bottom lip as she sat down on the bed, her gaze never leaving the floor while trying to calm her body down.

John gave himself a few moments to cool down, standing up, water rolling off him. He turned his back to her, breathing in and out, just concentrating on forgetting the sensations that had just been coursing through him. Finally, he was able to face her, turning around and picking up a towel, drying himself off somewhat before pulling back on his shorts, ignoring his wet trunks. “But what Ariel?” He asked softly, standing a few feet away from her, wishing she'd look up at him.

“Nothing, forget it.” She stated in a low tone, no longer holding the sultry quality within it, and sighed heavily. She stood up from the bed and walked over to her bag, pulling out a pair of pajama pants with a tank top and walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind her. The tears instantly flowed down her cheeks as she looked in the mirror, seeing her reflection and the fading bruises on her neck, having a sinking feeling something bad was going to happen soon. ‘I can't tell him the reason why. He won't want to be with me if he finds out I'm a virgin.’ She decided, locking it in her mind, and changed into her sleeping outfit along with a fresh pair of panties and bra, Ariella laid her wet garments over the side of the tub to dry, and walked back out, running a hand through her hair.

John had taken the opportunity to change into a pair of cotton pajama pants and a tee shirt, quickly making a bed up on the couch, unsure of just what the hell had happened. “You alright?” He asked softly when she came out of the bathroom, already laying down, his elbows underneath his head as he stared at the ceiling.

“What are you doing on the couch?” She asked, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and bit her bottom lip. “Just because I don't want to have sex with you, that doesn't mean you have to sleep on the fuckin' couch, John!” The anger in her tone caused his eyes to widen as she shook her head, not able to look at him right now, and decided she needed some fresh air. "I'm going for a walk.” She announced abruptly, pulling on her sweater and shoes and disappeared out the door before John could stop her, the tears already pouring down her cheeks**

~*~*~*~*~*~

Adam stared down into his drink sullenly, having returned to the hotel room and setting shop in the bar. He looked up when he overheard a man questioning one of the waiters about a woman named Ariella, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took the stranger in. “What has Ariella done to you?” He asked, sounding both bitter and curious at the same time, his eyebrows rising when the bald giant turned to him.

Marc listened as Adam, his new friend, recounted meeting Ariella and could feel a sneer forming on his lips. “So she's staying here then.” He grunted, downing a shot of tequila, wiping the back of his mouth with his hand, grunting once more. “That fuckin' whore...”

Smirking, Adam listened as Marc told his own story, or at least his version of it, guessing that Ariella had a pretty good reason for leaving this man. That wasn't his concern; he was pissed with her for his own reasons. “Yeah. Somewhere on the second floor, though she's with her boyfriend... John.” He watched Marc’s face, waiting for the man's reaction. “They were in an awfully big hurry to come back to their room.”

Marc's hand clenched around the glass, shattering it though he paid no attention to the blood and tequila that oozed onto the table. “She's sleeping with him then!” He snarled, pushing away from the table angrily. “I'll kill her this time!” He stalked away, leaving Adam to wonder what the Hell had gotten into him, and figured he had a past with Ariella.

Downing the rest of his beer, Adam decided to head up to his hotel room for the night, knowing he wouldn’t find any good ring rats to sleep with that night. Adam smirked when he seen Ariella walking towards him after stepping off the elevator, and shook his head. ‘This is too damn easy.’ He thought, running a hand through his blonde hair before halting just in front of her, grinning broadly when she walked right into him before falling backwards. “Hello Esmeralda.” He said mockingly. “Oh wait, its Ariella right? I've got someone who would just love to see you.” His smirk broadened before he bent down and jerked her roughly to her feet, tossing her over his shoulder. “In fact... I'm sure he's just DYING to get his hands on you.”

Ariella's eyes widened as she managed to squirm out of his grasp, the tears running freely down her cheeks, and stumbled back. The pure evilness in his eyes caused her blood to run ice cold as she quickly searched into her purse and pulled out a knife, flipping it open, and pressed against the wall. “Come near me and I swear to God, I'll slit your fuckin' throat!” She hissed, her eyes narrowed, and looked around her surroundings skeptically. “I only told you my name was Esmeralda because I didn't know who you were! Now back off before I end up hurting you.” Her tone was low and threatening, shaking a little, and bolted the first moment she got. Down the staircase, and through the backdoor, Ariella could feel her heart pounding furiously in her chest as she ran down the street She hoped a cop or someone seen her, wishing she was still in the safety of her hotel room with John, and suddenly regretted leaving in the first place.
Chapter 12

Cursing, Adam followed her, halting when he didn't see her immediately. He turned and caught a glimpse of her hair, rapidly disappearing before pushing some people out of his way, running after her at full speed, his long legs quickly catching up with her. “It's not that easy to get away you bitch!” He snarled, his fingers latching onto her hair, jerking her back against him roughly. He looked around to make sure nobody was watching before dragging her down a dark side street, shoving her face first into a trash can.

Ariella cried out in pain as her face smashed against the garbage can, immediately dropping to the ground, and shook her head, trying to get the cobwebs out. She slowly backed away from him, staring up at him, and started to cry as she shook her head. “Please...I didn't mean to make you angry. I'll tell everyone that it was a big misunderstanding...” While she had his focus on her words, Ariella managed to grab the knife that had fallen out of her hands and sliced his arm, standing up to her feet, and cracked her a neck a little. Without thinking, she threw the knife, causing it to land in his shoulder, and bolted down the dark alleyway, causing him to bellow out in pain, and looked up at the moon. Blood was spilling down her cheek as she ran like her life depended on it, fear coursing throughout her veins, and finally found a nearby diner that she found. She quickly bought a newspaper and hid in the far corner, putting it up so nobody would see her, and thanked god there were no windows within the place as she ordered a cup of coffee, even though she despised it.

An hour passed since Ariella left and John was starting to get worried. He couldn’t believe he’d actually let her out of the hotel room with Adam lurking in the shadows, and immediately went after her. John had made it to the street, having been told by the clerk that Ariella had fled the building, a blonde man chasing her. “ARIELLA!” He bellowed, eyes frantically searching the street for her. He snarled with rage when he seen Adam stumbling down the street, disappearing in and out of the streetlights. Quickly, he ran after the blonde. “Where the fuck is she?!” He demanded, pushing Adam to the concrete, staring down at his now wet hand. “If you fucking hurt her...” He growled, seeing the blood on Adam’s hand and panicked.

“That bitch fucking stabbed me!” Adam shrieked causing passerby’s to stare, getting to his feet and clutching his shoulder. “She fucking threw a damn knife at me! Keep your little fucking whore!” He tried to push John away only to get punched in the face, falling back like a log, his head landing hard on the sidewalk.

John shook his fist, watching as blood seeped out from a wound on Adam's head, smiling grimly. “Too bad she missed your heart.” He spat, kicking the prone man in the ribs before starting to search for Ariella, knowing she could be anywhere by now. “Fuck... Ariel, where are you?” He whispered, wishing he would have followed her sooner.

She smiled graciously at the waitress and quickly began beginning to sip it, not really drinking it, and peeked over her paper, immediately looking back at it, not wanting to take the chance. She just sat there, looking down at her coffee, and couldn't believe how fucked up her life had become. Not only did she have Marc to fend off, but now Adam was in the mix and Ariella wasn't sure if she was strong enough to beat both of them. The knife had been sheer luck, a gift from her friend after graduating high school that she’d carried around with her, and sighed heavily. “John, I'm sorry.” She whispered to herself and kept the paper up, pretending to sip her coffee even more.

After about twenty minutes passed by, Ariella slowly lowered the paper, looking around skeptically, and knew she had to make a run for it. She quickly paid for her coffee and walked out of the diner and ran down the street, tears of fear pouring down her eyes. She stopped, leaning against a dark alleyway wall, and pulled out mace, holding it firmly in her hand, and slowly walked into the streetlights, not seeing anyone around. She slowly began walking down the street, raking a hand through her hair, and kept the mace in her hand as the tears poured down her cheeks. Passing right by the alleyway where Adam had bashed her head into a garbage can Ariella winced at the memory and kept going.

John trudged into the hotel, halting at the desk to ask the clerk if Ariella had returned yet. He sighed frustrated when he was told no and walked back outside, planting himself in the shadows to wait, knowing she'd sooner or later make her way back. “C'mon girl, you're fucking scaring me to death.” He whispered, pushing away from the wall, unable to stand still. He started walking back down the street, his blue eyes widening when he seen her. “Ariella!” He shouted, running to her, pulling her into his arms, holding her in an almost crushing grip. “Did he hurt you? Ariel, what the hell happened? Are you hurt?” He demanded, running his hands all over her in an effort to reassure himself she was actually there.

Ariella immediately burst into tears, wrapping her arms around John's neck, and held him tightly against her. The blood ran down her cheek and head, thanks to the blow of the garbage can, and felt her entire body trembling against him. She couldn't even speak as she literally choked him, never wanting to let him go, and gasps out in quick breath, heaving from both fear and relief that she'd found John. The mace still held firm in her hand, but she knew it was John as she buried her head in his neck, and whispered out repeatedly in a shaky voice, “I-I'm sorry...I-I'm sorry...”

“Ssshhhh...” He soothed, picking her up, her legs automatically wrapping around his waist and started towards the hotel, ignoring the shocked looks they received. “Don't be sorry baby; it's not your fault.” He stroked her back as he walked, willing his heart rate to slow down. “What happened tonight, Ariel?” He asked, already planning on getting their things and leaving just as soon as he patched her up. “How bad are these cuts and don't lie to me.”

Marc had watched John carry Ariella inside from his position in the shadows, shaking his head, growling angrily. “Fucking whore.” He whispered, slipping out the doors, intent on collecting a few items before snatching her scrawny ass up.

Sniffling against him and running a hand through his hair, rubbing the back of his neck, Ariella finally managed to calm down enough to tell him. “I was mad at you and wanted to go for a walk to clear my mind, but ran into Adam. He told me someone was here who was dying to see me and I have a sinking feeling I know who it is. We need to get out of here, John.” She whispered fearfully against his neck, refusing to release him, not even worried about the cuts on her cheek and head.

John instantly knew who it was too, cursing under his breath. He stopped at the front desk long enough to order a first aid kit sent up to his room before carrying her there. “We're leaving, just let me patch your head and face first.” He said, setting her down on the couch before beginning to pack their few scattered items and kept looking back at her. “Next time you get pissed with me; just slap me or something okay?” He only half teased, the other half dead serious. “Finally.” John sighed with relief when there was a knock at his door. A moment later he returned with a first aid box and settled down on the couch besides her. “Going to let me look?”

Ariella nodded as she smiled a little, wincing since her cheek was throbbing, and bit her bottom lip as her gaze was to the floor. “I'm sorry, I just...I was angry because it seemed like the only reason why you wanted to sleep in the same bed with me was because you wanted to have sex. I'm not ready, John. I don't know when I will be either.” Her voice was low and quiet, the tears already pooling in her eyes, and raked a hand through her hair, wincing in pain at the pain that radiated off her cheek. “Ouch!”

*John frowned, handing her the small bottle of Tylenol before opening a bottle of peroxide. He gently parted her hair and proceeded to clean the cut on her head. “I wasn't sleeping on the couch because you didn't want to have sex with me Ariella.” He explained softly while he worked. “I'll admit I wanted to have sex with you when we were in the hot tub but I'm trying not to rush you into anything you're not ready for. I told you, I love you and I'm a patient man.” He blew on the cut, watching the peroxide bubbling. “I don't want to lose you again.”

**Ariella winced again, trying to keep the tears from sliding down her cheeks, and suddenly felt her body trembling in fear. “M-Maybe I should just go back to Marc...” She quietly whispered, though her heart broke at the mere thought of being away from John. “He's never gonna stop unless I'm with him and in his control.” She started crying harshly, burying her face in her hands, and shook her head back and forth while John patched up the cut on her head.

*John moved onto the cut on her face, shaking his head. “You're not going back to him.” He said firmly, thinking he was going to wind up killing his cousin. “Ariel, why don't we go file a police report and see what can be done about all this? I'll give Vince a call and get Adam... handled.” He swallowed hard, planning on killing him too for what he caused her tonight.

She could only cry harder, knowing it wouldn't do any good, and sighed heavily as she looked up into his blue eyes. “I just want to get out of here, John, please. Just let me go back home so I can deal with this on my own. Your career isn't going to be ruined because of me.” Her voice was shaky, trembling with fear, and winced when he dabbed a little peroxide on her cheek before bandaging it up. “Vince is going to have a coronary when he finds out what I did to Adam so I need to leave immediately.”

John shook his head again, pulling her closer against him, wrapping his arms around her waist. “No Ariella.” He said firmly, letting her know he wasn't going to let her slip away easily. “To hell with my damn job! You're more important to me, don't you know that?” He pressed his lips to her forehead. “Let's just get out of here and drive, okay? Put some miles behind us.”

She could only nod and sniffled a little, looking into his beautiful blue eyes, and kissed his lips passionately, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I love you, John.” She whispered, burying her face in the crook of his neck, and refused to release him.

John tightened his hold on her, kissing the side of her head. “I love you too.” He murmured, stroking her back. He sighed, reluctantly pulling her away and setting her on her feet. “Let's get out of here.” He said, reaching out to caress the side of her face, meaning what he had said about his job. “Where do you want to go, name a place. Anywhere you want.”

“Where is this place headed to next?” She asked, refusing to allow John's career to be put in jeopardy, and would handle both Adam and Marc when the time came. She walked up to him, stroking his face with the back of her hand, loving the feeling of love that came over her as he stared back at her in admiration. “That's where I want to go, wherever this place is headed to next.”

John rubbed his chin, staring at her thoughtfully. “Raw is being held in L.A.” He answered finally. “There'll be some stops along the way for non televised shows but I'm not scheduled for those.” He picked up both their bags, reaching out a hand to her. “We could go kick back, do some shopping, maybe catch a show...”

Staring back at him, Ariella nodded, trying to smile at the thought of spending time with him, but she couldn't help, but think about Marc lurking in the shadows. Gripping his hand firmly in her own as he grabbed their things, they walked out of their hotel room, keeping close to his side, and her gaze to the floor as he checked them out. He lead them out to the rental car and helped her inside the car, buckling up her seatbelt instantly, and leaned back against the seat with her eyes closed. “Goodbye Houston.” She whispered, hoping she could put all that had happened to her behind them.

Rolling down his window, John’s mind raced as he got onto the road that led to the highway. He quickly glanced at Ariella, reaching over to take her hand. “Get some sleep babe.” He said softly, already decided that as soon as they reached L.A. he was making some phone calls. “We'll be there before you know it.”

The sun streamed throughout the car and on her face as she slowly opened her eyes, seeing they were still moving in the car, and yawned a little. Her vision began to become normal as she stared at the clock, seeing it was just a little after eight in the morning, and wondered where they were at. She glanced over at John, seeing he was dead tired, and knew they had to stop soon before he fell asleep at the wheel. “John...can we stop at the next hotel?” She asked softly, not wanting him to drive without any sleep behind him.

John looked over at her, his face looking haggard, eyes bloodshot. “Are you tired?” He asked instantly, frowning when he seen how pale she looked. He pulled onto the next exit, spotting a motel 8 sign and switching lanes so he would make the right turn. He almost sighed with relief when the motel came into view, suddenly very tired.

Smiling softly and running a hand through her hair, Ariella nodded, though she was wide awake. She knew he was exhausted and needed some sleep, which is why she'd suggested it, and sighed with relief when they finally pulled into the parking lot. Slowly stepping out and walking over, Ariella grasped John's hand as they walked inside, keeping their things in the car, and checked it before heading to their hotel room. Once inside, Ariella guided John over to the bed and laid him down, tucking him in, and kissed his lips softly as she pressed her forehead to his, whispering, “Sleep, you need it.”

John smiled tiredly, grabbing her arm and pulling her down onto the bed with him. He pulled the covers over her, spooning against her, his arms wrapped around her. “Stay with me Ariel.” He requested in a yawn, burying his face in her hair. He never heard her response if there was one because he was out instantly

Chapter 13

Sometime later that night, Ariella slowly woke up again, and looked around the hotel room. She heard the shower running and smiled, knowing John was in there, and sat up on the bed. Her knees bent as they pressed against her chest, her arms wrapping around her legs, and leaned her cheek on her knees as she closed her eyes, not believing what a night she'd had. The sight of the knife plunging into Adam's shoulder caused her to shiver, knowing she could've killed him, and knew he'd be back for revenge. ‘I need to get stronger.’ She thought and wondered if John could teach her some defense fighting incase Marc or Adam got their hands on her.

John finished brushing his teeth before gargling mouth rinse. He spit into the sink before looking at himself in the mirror, splashing on a bit of cologne and walking out. “Hey beautiful.” He greeted, smiling broadly when he seen she was up, pulling on a blue jersey.

Ariella looked up at him and cracked a small smile, though the amount of worry that was in her body was tearing her apart. She ran a hand through her hair and reluctantly stood up from the bed, making her way over to her bag, and cleared her throat. “It's going on four; we should head out unless you had other plans?” She questioned vaguely, a million thoughts running throughout her mind.

“No... I just want to get to LA so we can kick back until Raw, how's that sound?” John quickly stuffed his laundry in his bag, reaching for the SUV keys. “Ready to hit the road again?”

They arrived in LA sometime around midnight that night and Ariella was exhausted. They checked into their hotel room as she threw her bags down on the floor and walked over to stare out the window. The suite was beautiful, having a Jacuzzi like the previous one did, and a huge bathroom along with two bedrooms. She sighed heavily as she ran a hand through her hair, wrapping her arms around herself, and tried to stop worrying so much about Adam and Marc. Life wasn't worth living if you couldn't enjoy it, but then again, she also didn't want to lose her life or independence at the hands of the two behemoths.

‘I wish they would leave me alone.’ She thought sadly. Ariella rolled her eyes as she walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind her, and stripped out of her clothes before stepping into the shower. She placed her hands on the wall, allowing the sprays to flow down her body, and hoped to wash away her troubles and stress she'd been feeling. She winced at her cheek and head, but honestly didn't care, just wanting to be free from all her pain and misery that Marc and Adam had inflicted on her. Her mind suddenly turned to John, those beautiful blue eyes, and bit her bottom lip, feeling her entire body trembling with desire for him. “I love him.” She whispered, knowing it was true, and also knew she wanted to spend the rest of her life with him.

John excused himself to the other bedroom, shutting the door behind him before opening it and sticking his head out. “Don't go anywhere babe.” He winked at her though his tone was serious before shutting the door again. He picked up the phone and punched in a number. “Vince, this is John...”

Vince sighed heavily as he ran a hand over his face, hearing John's voice, and cleared his throat before responding, “Hey John, what can I do for you?”

Hearing Vince sigh on the other line, John shrugged, steeling his shoulders, skipping the formalities. “I want Adam in a match.” He said after a moment, changing his plan at the last minute, fairly certain Ariella would leave him if he told Vince what had happened. He quickly gave Vince some bullshit excuse and crossed his fingers.

“Hmm sounds like a plan, John. I like the way you think and having you two feud would be refreshing for the ratings. You got him in a match Monday Night on RAW and the title will be on the line, deal?” He asked, his mind swirling with a million opportunities at this idea. John quickly negotiated the match into a no disqualifications before hanging up, not minding the title being on the line because he had every intention of pounding that little prick into mud. His good mood fully intact, he walked into the other room, not spotting Ariella but relaxing when he heard the shower. He called room service and ordered dinner for two before walking over to the radio, flicking it on and searching for some music.

Wrapping a towel around her waist and tucking it in between her breasts, Ariella groaned when she realized she'd forgotten to bring clothes in with her. She walked out and over to her bag, seeing John was trying to find a station to listen to on the radio the room came with, and smiled a little before searching for something to wear, “Hmm...”

John jumped, startled and spun around, his eyes widening when he seen her. “Give a guy a little more warning...” He joked, rubbing the back of his neck. “I ordered a steak dinner, if you're hungry. “He winked at her, his blue eyes twinkling. “You could even wear that dress I bought you.”

Biting her bottom lip nervously, Ariella felt her cheeks growing hot again as she sighed, knowing it wouldn't hurt anything. She pulled it out of the bag and held it up, looking at it, and decided on wearing white panties and a bra before retreating back into the bathroom, not saying a word to him. She looked in the mirror, trying to hide her bare shoulders with her black hair, and finally walked out. She cleared her throat, causing him to turn around, and had her hands clasped in front of her as she walked over to the bed and sat down. “Wanted to give you warning.” She quietly joked, though the butterflies were swirling around dangerously in her stomach.

His jaw dropped, just like it had the first time he'd seen her in it. “You look gorgeous.” He complimented finally, clearing his throat. He looked irritated when he heard a knock on the door, walking over to get it. “Food's here.” He announced, tipping the server and wheeling the trolley in himself. “I hope you're hungry because there's a lot here.” He looked at her, licking his lips. Her stomach rumbled a little and smiled, nodding back at him, and sat on the bed, running her fingers through her hair. He lifted the lid for her, causing the wonderful aroma of food to enter her nostrils, and moaned softly before picking the fork up and immediately began eating. John settled down besides her, digging into his own plate with gusto, though every few bites he would stop to look at her, finally shaking his head. “You look absolutely stunning.” He complimented again, still not able to get over how beautiful she looked in that dress.

Shaking her head and smacking him playfully, Ariella set her fork down as she turned to face him. “Do you insist on making me blush constantly?” She asked, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear while doing so. “This dress isn't me, but if you say so...”

“I love it when you blush.” He teased, spearing a piece of steak on his fork before popping it in his mouth. He stared at her while he chewed, barely tasting it. After he'd swallowed, he said, “You look so cute when your cheeks turn pink. The dress is you... believe me.” John insisted, taking another forkful in his mouth, and swallowed it, famished to no avail.

“No it isn't.” She argued, pushing her food around on her plate, and bit her bottom lip. “This dress deserves to be on a model or something.” Ariella stated, leaning her cheek on her hand, and sighed as she ran a hand through her hair absentmindedly. “How's your food?” She asked, changing the subject.

John shook his head, wishing she'd realize she did have the body of a model but accepted her changing the topic. “It's edible.” He smirked, gesturing to her own plate. “Eat up, you haven't eaten since breakfast the other day, you must be starving.”

Shaking her head and pushing her food away, Ariella stood up from the bed and sighed heavily. “I'm really not that hungry.” She quietly admitted. “Go and eat, John.” She stated, walking over to the window, and stared out of it, her arms remaining crossed in front of her chest.

John sighed, his appetite suddenly disappearing. “What's on your mind babe?” He asked, walking over to stand next to her. “Marc and Adam?” His voice grew soft, not wanting to upset her in any way.

Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Ariella nodded as she sighed in defeat, knowing now was the time to ask him. She slowly turned around, staring up into his eyes, and cleared her throat before she began, “John, I need to ask a huge favor and please don't question why...”

John stared down at her, a puzzled look in his blue eyes and nodded slowly, “You can ask me anything Ariella.” He assured her quietly, reaching out to lightly stroke her cheek. “What do you need?”

“I want you to teach me some self defense moves. There's gotta me something you can show me that I can counter with incase I do end up in trouble...” Her words trailed off, not wanting to talk about this, but knew she had no alternative. “I need to know how to defend myself.”

Raising an eyebrow, John wondered why he hadn't thought about this before. He smiled down at her, nodding his head, and replied, “I can do that. We can start tomorrow in the gym if you want...” He would've offered to do it tonight but she looked tired.

A smile spread across her lips and wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him close to her, and rained kisses on his face before finally passionately kissing his lips. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!!” She whispered happily, the life and fire flowing back into her midnight blue eyes, and ran her down his face and chest, never leaving his eyes.

John inhaled sharply, gently grabbing her hands and raising them to his face, kissing her palms, his eyes locked with hers as he moved his kisses up to her fingertips. “You're very welcome.” He said his voice low and husky. Ariella's entire body shivered as his lips grazed against her fingertips as she continued to stare into his blue eyes. Ready or not, Ariella wasn't passing up this opportunity again as she wrapped her arms around his neck and passionately kissed his lips, running her fingers through his hair and rubbing the back of his neck, a soft moan escaping her lips as they continued to kiss. John ran his hands down her back, pressing them against her ass and pressing her against his hard body. “Ariella, tell me to stop if this isn't what you want.” He whispered raggedly, his lips moving hungrily down her throat. “I'm not trying to pressure you baby...” He groaned when she moved, gently pressing his erection against her, letting her feel what she was doing to him.

“No…” She breathed out, feeling his lips grazing down her neck, and ran her hands up and down his back as her eyes drifted shut. The amount of emotions and desire that exploded throughout her body caused Ariella to tremble against him, even though she was enjoying every second of it. “I-I want you...” She managed to rasp out, feeling him pull her closer, and gasped at how rock hard he'd gotten as it pressed against her thigh. “John...”

Staring down at her intently, his blue eyes darkened slightly, loving the color her eyes changed as well. “Ariella, if I ask you a question, you won't... get upset with me?” He asked gently, cupping her face in his hand.

Shaking her head back at him, her midnight blue eyes now clouded over and slowly turning almost black as she ran her finger down his cheek. She couldn't help it as she leaned forward, kissing his neck while her hands ran up and down his body, loving how chiseled it was, and how the muscles rippled against her fingertips and hands. “What is it?” She whispered out in a desired filled voice.

John groaned, actually trembling with need and desire, his reaction to her unlike anything he had ever felt before. Reluctantly he held her away from him, staring down at her tenderly. “Have you... Are-" He hesitated, hoping desperately she didn't get mad about this but needing to know, the way she reacted to him almost pointing to it. “Are you a virgin still Ariel?”

Tears instantly burned her eyes as her bottom lip began quivering, running a hand through her hair, and slowly lowered her gaze to the floor. “Yes...” She whispered, rubbing the back of her neck with her hand, and turned around, wrapping her arms around herself. She couldn't look at him right now, feeling too ashamed at the moment, and looked out the window, allowing a few tears to slowly slide down her cheeks.

John seen her tears and instantly felt bad, reaching out to pull her back into his arms. “Hey.... don't cry.... it's nothing to be sorry about or ashamed of.” He tilted her head up, forcing her to look at him. “I just wanted to know, I didn't want you to feel uncomfortable with me Ariel. I love you babe, don't you believe that?”

Nodding back at him, Ariella sniffled as she wiped her tears away and stared up into his eyes. “I just...I didn't want you to think...I don't know.” She sighed exasperatedly, raking a hand through her hair. “I love you too, John. So much that I refused to make love to Marc because you're all I could think about. I was saving myself...for you.” Her gaze adverted to the floor and ran a hand through her hair. “I want to be...with you.”

He couldn't even begin to find the words to describe how he felt when she made that declaration. Love, respect amid other things coursed through him. John pulled her against him tighter, bending down to kiss her bare shoulders, brushing her hair out of his way. “I love you Ariella...” He whispered between kisses, flicking his tongue out against her skin, loving how she tasted.

“Then...Take me, John...” She stated in a low voice, running a hand through her hair, and moaned softly at the feeling of his tongue against her bare flesh. “Make me yours...” She breathed out in a request, running her hands up and down his shoulders and arms, and knew it was going to happen on this night.
Chapter 14

John swallowed hard, suddenly afraid he wouldn't meet her expectations. Slowly, he backed her to the bed, sitting down and pulling her between his legs, running his hands up and down her legs, going higher and higher up each time. He stared up at her for a moment before bending forward to kiss right under her navel, feeling her hot flesh through the dress she wore. She felt heavenly against his touch, so soft and warm, it made John crazy just touching and feeling her. He still couldn’t believe she’d been the one who wrote that letter, those beautiful words, and was going to make sure he gave her everything she wanted in this bout.

Ariella moaned softly, her entire body trembling uncontrollably at the feeling of his tongue on her heated skin. She ran her fingers through his hair as he moved up, kissing the tops of her breasts the dress revealed, and looked up into his eyes as they kissed. “I love you...” She whispered, searching his eyes to make sure he was comfortable with this, and ran her fingertips along his bottom lip. So many thoughts ran through her mind, so many emotions as his hands explored her body, causing her moans to escalate. She’d waited for four long years, gone through Hell with Marc, just for this moment and nothing was going to stop her from fulfilling it with John.

He sucked her finger in his mouth, his blue eyes never leaving hers before he whispered, “I love you too.” He reached around to unzip her dress, watching as she stepped out of it, his mouth dry suddenly. “You're beautiful Ariella.” John said softly, dropping to his knees in front of her. He gently placed his hands on her hips before kissing her panty covered crotch, hooking his fingers through them and slowly pulled them down, kissing every inch as it was exposed.

Ariella gasped at the feeling of his lips brushing against her innocence, never having experienced it, and ran her fingers throughout his hair, staring into his eyes. Her breathing began to quicken as she felt herself soak while her body trembled. Ariella didn't understand what was happening as she looked at him, both fear and passion coursing throughout her body, and whimpered out, “W-What's happening?”

“Go with it baby.” John whispered in encouragement, flicking his tongue against her clit, holding firmly onto her hips when she bucked suddenly. “Just let yourself go...” He murmured, running his tongue down her slit, groaning when her sweet juices coated his tongue.

“Oh sweet Jesus…” She gasped out, leaning back on the bed, and ran her hands up and down her face, not knowing what to do, what to think. Her world was spiraling out of control from the amount of ecstasy that flowed throughout her body and she suddenly began to tremble more. Something was building up inside of her, something she couldn't explain, and cried out John's name as it slowly began ripping throughout her. She knew it was her orgasm, her first orgasm, and gripped his hair tighter in her fingers, not believing how exquisite this feeling was. It was a mixture of warmth and intensity, a feeling she never wanted to relinquish.

John smiled slightly, never stopping, continuing to run his tongue up and down before circling her clit, sliding one hand up her leg. He then slid one finger inside of her, moving it in and out in sync with his tongue, holding her down with one hand as she came, never stopping his assault on her. Her sweet juices coated his tongue, causing a growl of passion to erupt deep from the back of his throat, and suddenly wanted more. Addicted, that was the only word that he could describe this feeling, and wished he could bottle her essence. She tasted that sweet.

Her moans and cries echoed off the hotel rooms, gasping at both the pain and pleasure of his finger sliding inside of her. She popped up when something much more intense began ripping through her. “John...” Ariella hesitantly breathed out, fear coursing through her voice, and ran a hand through her hair shakily. “S-Something....Oh God!!” She cried out, squeezing her eyes tightly shut as her thighs tensed and felt her juices spill out of her body and into his greedy mouth. Perspiration formed on her body as she breathed in and out rapidly, staring at him as her heart beat furiously in her chest, heaving a little from how powerful her orgasm had been.

Licking her clean along with his fingers, John savored her juices before kissing his way up her body until he was hovering over her, bracing his weight on his hands. “How do you feel?” He asked bending down to nuzzle her neck, loving how soft and tender her flesh was against his lips and tongue.

“F-Flushed...Warm…” She answered, still trying to catch her breath, and could only run her fingers throughout his hair and down his back as he nuzzled her neck. She giggled a little when he began nipping at it. The giggles settled down and turned into moans when he kissed up her neck, causing her to hold him tighter to her while spreading her legs for him willingly She was wearing only her white lace bra that was sure to go next and moaned out, “Mmm this is heaven...”

John smiled before quickly removing his clothes, standing over her for a second, watching her eyes trail down to his throbbing erection. “Heaven only gets better.” He promised, covering her body with his, his hands deftly removing her bra before raking his teeth over her nipples, each one in turn. “You taste so good Ariella...” He groaned, rubbing his cock against her, just letting her get used to the feel of his body.

Ariella's eyes slowly drifted shut as she felt him on top of her, running her fingers up and down his back, and smiled in sheer contentment. She gasped when she felt his hardened cock brush up against her, causing a soft whimper to escape her lips, and looked down at what John was doing to her. “Stop...teasing...”She breathed out, her chest rising and falling rapidly, and looked into his darkened eyes while hers swirled to almost two black holes.

John inhaled sharply, kissing her collarbone while slowly easing himself into her, stopping every other second to let her adjust. “It might hurt, be uncomfortable at first.” He whispered in her ear warningly, lacing his fingers with hers. “Relax and just trust me Ariella.” He stared down into her eyes, giving her one last chance to change her mind. He had to fight to keep from plunging in her, feeling how tight she was around, how exquisitely warm she was wrapping around him.

Ariella squeezed her eyes shut, their fingers laced together, and felt him slowly slide inside of her. Her walls contracted instantly, wrapping around him like a latex glove to a hand, and felt her thighs tightening uncontrollably while they began to tremble. Her breath caught in her throat at the sheer feeling of him sliding inside of her, not able to speak or breathe, utter a word. Her grip tightened around him as her legs wrapped around his waist, locking her ankles, and cried out when he slid all the way in, breaking her walls as she crumbled in his arms, “John!!”

He kissed her passionately, his body trembling from the effort to not cum so soon. When he finally regained some semblance of control, he began moving in and out of her slowly at first but moving faster, deeper when it became obvious she was adjusting to him. “God Ariel, you feel so good!” He managed to gasp out before bending down to kiss her breasts, never stopping the current pace he was thrusting in and out of her.

Her hands began running down his chest, his shoulder, and down his arms, feeling the power in them as her eyes flew open. She felt the same, incredible pleasure course throughout her body that had previously been there. “J-John...” She cried out, thrashing and writhing beneath him as she pressed her forehead to his, kissing him with her trembling lips.

John gritted his teeth when he felt her inner walls begin to clamp down on him, trying to keep his control. “Ariella!” He groaned, suddenly unable to stop himself, feeling like a thousand little hands were suddenly gripping him. “Sweet Jesus!” He bent down to kiss her, smashing his lips against hers as he shot his load inside her, snapping his hips forward, splashing against her back walls. “Oh...”

“JOHN!!” Ariella's voice bellowed off the hotel room walls, not caring who heard her as she held him close, spasming around him while she felt him go limp, and kissed his forehead. John collapsed on top of her, resting his head on her breasts, and tried to breathe out slowly, taking really deep breaths. Her heart was thudding against her ear, running her fingers through his hair, and sighed in sheer contentment.

When he was able to breathe properly, John rolled off her, pulling her so she lay somewhat sprawled on his chest. “You are the most beautiful, most incredible woman I have ever known.” He whispered, reaching out to brush her hair out of her face. “You know that?”

Shaking her head as she snuggled further up against his chest, Ariella pressed kisses on his chest as her leg thrown over his lazily, and smiled softly, contently. “No, I didn't know that.” She replied gently, running her fingers absentmindedly on his chest.

John chuckled, wrapping his arms around her, holding her tightly. “You do now babe.” He bent his head to kiss her hair. “I love you Ariel.” He whispered, his blue eyes frighteningly intense as he stared down at her, wondering what he would ever do without her. After what they just did, he was not willing to let her go now that they were finally together, especially after what Jessica pulled.

Smiling softly up at him as he kissed his lips softly, Ariella felt her heart flutter at his words and replied in a whisper, “I love you too, John. I always have and I always will.” She snuggled against him more, her arm draping over his chest, and closed her eyes, allowing the peaceful slumber to succumb her body.

John stared down at Ariella, just watching her sleep. She was so beautiful, angelic, something he couldn’t believe he’d let slip through his fingers, even if she was only fourteen. He smiled, reaching over to brush his knuckles against her face, wondering how any man could be stupid enough to treat her the way Marc had. “I love you...” He whispered, resting his head next to hers before drifting off as well.

~*~*~*~*~*

Ariella walked down the hallway of the arena a few nights later, seeing the madness surrounding her, and knew she shouldn't be doing this. She knew better, but then again, John had taught her some pretty useful defense moves. Knowing Adam and Marc were lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike; Ariella would be ready for them when they did. Ariella headed down to the cafeteria, needing a bottle of water, and sighed as her mind started venturing back to the night her and John made love. It was so wonderful, so magical; something she’d only thought came out of fairytales. The way he felt, the way he touched her, everything about the man caused her heart to flutter and put a never ending smile on her face.

Adam nudged Marc when he seen John and Ariella approaching, or so he thought. His shoulder was aching when he seen her, pissed that he had been scheduled to fight John... in a no disqualifications match no less. He took Marc's cue and stepped back into a room, not wanting to be spotted just yet, preferring to wait until later before putting their little plans in motion. Marc nudged Adam out of his way when he seen Ariella walking alone down the hallway, no doubt heading back to her lover. Gritting his teeth he decided he couldn't wait any longer and stepped out from the place he'd been hiding. Marc picked up a prop, surprised to find it an actual lead pipe instead of something fake like he'd been expecting. “Hello darling.” He whispered in her ear, holding the pipe behind his back.

Ariella froze in her path upon hearing that voice, hearing the pure anger in his voice, and didn't turn around. She mentally counted to three and took off, bolting down the hallway and shoved people out of the way left and right. Fear was evident in her eyes as she kept running, barreling out of the backdoor, and quickly hid in the darkness, holding her breath, and hoped he didn't spot her, especially with how dark it was outside. She froze when he came running out after her, holding the lead pipe, and immediately pressed her back against the wall, not making a sound.

“You do not pick very good places to hide.” Adam sounded more than amused, quirking an eyebrow curiously then nodded knowingly when he seen Marc rush past them. She had actually stumbled into a place he was currently lurking, not wanting to repeat his last encounter with John. “Hey Marc! She's over here!” He called out, lunging and wrapping his arms around her waist, pinning her arms to her side.

“Let go of me!!” She screamed, thrashing about, and immediately stopped when she seen Marc heading her way. Her eyes squeezed shut, knowing she'd been caught, and would have to live to fight another day as Adam's arms were securely around her waist. The lead pipe in his hand caused her to tremble, but kept her gaze to the ground and her eyes shut, waiting for the blow to come. She knew begging wouldn't do any good, not now, not ever, and prepared to lose her life possibly.

Marc smiled grimly down at her, setting the lead pipe down in order to reach out and touch her face, his gentle caress turning into a harsh slap. “You're a whore my dear.” He said coldly, staring at the vivid hand mark on her face. “I hope you enjoyed your little affair with John because it is over.” He nodded to Adam. “Let's get her somewhere else.” Adam smirked, picking her up and following Marc to the other side of the building. Both knew as soon as he discovered her missing, John would instantly think she was well on her way out of state, or at least that was what they were hoping.

Ariella held her cheek from the harsh slap of Marc's hand colliding with her face and allowed them to carry her off wherever. They started toward the car and Ariella suddenly realized what was going on. With a quick move, Ariella had managed to hit Adam's wounded shoulder, causing him to drop her, and bolted toward their rental car. She was a fast runner as her heart pounded in and out of her chest furiously and whipped out another knife that she'd bought on their way to LA, stopping as she held it up. It was a six inch blade as Adam stopped, holding his shoulder, and the tears were sliding down her face. “Take one more fuckin' step and I swear I won't hesitate to kill either one of you!” Her voice was low and deadly as she kept her eyes fixated on both, smirking over at Adam as he backed away like a coward.

Marc just stared at Ariella like she had lost her mind. “Put that away before you get hurt.” He ordered in a low, deadly voice. “Maybe John's got you pumped up Ariella, but I know better. You don't have the nerve to use that thing. Put. It. Down!” He took a step towards her, his eyes narrowed dangerously.

“You obviously don't know me very well. Ask your little friend over there and ask him how he injured his shoulder, Marc!” She spat angrily, not caring about the pain that throbbed in her cheek at the moment, and held the knife firmly, tightly in her hand. “One more fuckin' step, do it and you'll have this lunged in your black heart!” She threatened, causing Adam to pull him back from her, and nodded. “Good, that's right, smart fuckin' move.”

Gritting his teeth angrily, Marc hardly believed this was Ariella. “Baby, why would you want to kill me though?” He asked in a soft, cajoling tone, switching tactics, hoping at the very least to lower her defenses. “I love you Ariella and I want you to come home with me, everyone there is so worried about you. Carol calls me every day to see if I've found you yet...You broke her heart...” He was lying through his damn teeth, but was banking on her soft heart.

Ariella wasn't buying any of it as she backed away more from him, shaking her head, but never took her eyes out of him. “Why do you want to hurt me so much? You've done nothing, but cause me insurmountable pain and I can't take it anymore!!” She shouted, gripping the knife, and held it out to her wrist. “DO YOU WANT ME TO END MY LIFE FOR YOU?!” She screamed, the tears pouring down her cheeks as she kept backing away from them, pressing the blade a little bit firmer on her wrist, showing them she wasn't messing around. “Don't take another step or I'll do it and don't fuckin’ think I won't because I will!” She stated in a dangerous, deadly tone of voice, her eyes growing icy blue, and felt the tears sliding down her cheeks, knowing she was starting to scare them away.

Marc instantly stepped back, not wanting her dead, just with him and under his thumb. “Don't do it Ariella.” He said flatly, raising his hands up in a peaceful gesture, walking around her to join Adam. “I'm going okay? Look, I'm leaving...”

Slowly pulling the knife from her wrist, Ariella still held out to them, backing away further to the arena, and never unlocked her eyes from them. “Good, stay the fuck away from me and out of my life! I hate you, Marc and that's not going to change! I love John, get it??? Yours and Jessica's plan FAILED and now we're together!! Now leave me the fuck alone or I swear, I'll kill you and end up on America's Most Wanted for MURDER!” Marc stared at Ariella blankly, though inside he felt like slitting her wrists for her. He started to say something but was tackled out of nowhere, and grunted out in pain as his body collided with the unforgiving parking lot pavement.
Chapter 15

John nodded, listening as the GM went over his match for the night, grinning broadly at the thought of getting revenge on Adam for Ariella. After signing a waiver, John walked out, starting towards his dressing room. John stepped into his dressing room, frowning when he seen Ariella wasn't there yet, recalling her mentioning going to get something to drink. He sighed and started changing his clothes, wishing she'd get back soon; paranoia wasn't good for his health. When she didn’t come back for a half an hour, John decided he had waited long enough. He stormed out of his dressing room halting only to ask if anyone had seen Ariella. He got some vague replies and frowned, instantly knowing who had her. “Where's Adam?” He demanded, grabbing a stagehand by the shoulder, accidentally bruising the man instantly. John got a stuttered answer about outside and started running towards the back doors, his heart pounding a furious tattoo in his chest. As soon as John seen Marc and Adam taunting Ariella in the parking lot, something snapped inside of John as he rushed over, tackling his cousin to the ground. He just started whaling on Marc, his fists flying, landing hard blows all over Marc's face and head, ignoring the pain that filled his hands. His knuckles started to bleed when he hit Marc's teeth. “Stay the fuck away from her!” He shouted his face a mask of hatred.

Ariella gasped as she instantly backed away, keeping her eye on Adam, who bolted back inside the arena, and backed up against the arena building, sliding down it, and finally dropped the knife in front of her. She broke completely down, running a hand through her hair, and curled up in a tight ball on the pavement, just watching John beat the Hell out of Marc, keeping the knife close to her incase someone tried attacking her again. John finally got off of Marc, looking around for Adam. “That little bitch...” He growled, staring down at the bleeding, unconscious man before him. His blue eyes settled on Ariella before spotting the knife. He walked over to her slowly, holding out his hand. “Give that to me baby, nobody is going to hurt you.” He said softly, kneeling down slowly in front of her.

Hearing John's voice, Ariella's eyes slowly opened as she looked up at him, her cheek bruising from Marc's blow earlier, and immediately sat up. She handed the knife over to him, trusting him with her life and instantly ran into his arms, crying her heart and soul out while her entire body trembled. “I wasn't going to do it...!! I was just trying to get them to stay away from me!!” She cried out, burying her face in the crook of his neck, and looked over at the prone laying body of Marc.

John stroked her back with his free hand, staring down at the knife. “It's all right baby, I've got you.” He whispered soothingly, gently helping her to her feet. “Let's get inside; I'll have security come handle this bastard.” He spit on Marc's still body before leading her towards the arena. Allowing him to lead her into the arena, Ariella kept her gaze down on the floor, knowing she shoved a few of them earlier on, and walked into his dressing room. She immediately curling up on the couch after sitting down, and started crying as the sobs wracked throughout her body. John stood outside the door, speaking rapidly and quietly to head of security. When he finished, he walked inside the room and shut the door, walking over to pull her into his arms. “It's all right Ariella…” He soothed. “It's being taken care of right now baby. “He rocked her back and forth, his heart breaking with every cry from her, every tear she shed like a dagger being twisted in him.

Ariella couldn't even speak as she curled up on his lap and sobbed her heart out. Her cheek stung with every tear that ran over it, causing her to cry harder as she covered it with her hand. She didn't want to ever seen Marc or Adam again as she sniffled. That line of bull about John's mother really angered Ariella and that's the reason why she'd used that threat about slitting her wrists. If it hadn't been for the knife, Ariella knew Marc would've gotten his way with her and that thought made her entire body tremble against John with pure fear.

He just held her, feeling every little tremble, every shake, pain shooting through him, physically hurting him it was that intense. Finally he glanced at the clock and sighed. “I have to go out for my match now Ariel.” He whispered, burying his face in her hair. “Security will be right outside the door though, nobody but me is allowed in this room. Will you be alright until I come back?” He asked, mentally slapping himself. Of course she wasn't okay!

She could only nod as she clung to him, feeling him try to set her down on the couch, but her arms were around his neck in a vise grip, refusing to release him. She cried harder when he broke them off and curled up in a ball on the couch, staring at the cushion, and proceeded to sob even harder as he kissed her forehead. She couldn't say anything to him, not one word because her mind and heart wouldn't allow it. John stared down at her for a minute, feeling overwhelming guilt about leaving her before walking out. “Nobody gets in this room and she doesn't leave it.” He instructed the guards. John groaned and started towards the ring entrance, wanting to beat the living hell out of Adam and then return back to the hotel with Ariella. When he did finally get into the ring, he instantly lunged for the blonde man, not bothering with wrestling. He was out for blood and revenge.

John ignored the referee when he was told he was going to wind up killing Adam, smiling grimly as he halted his assault to look down at his opponent. Adam definitely sported a broken nose, would probably be coughing up teeth for the rest of the week and John knew for a fact he was broken Adam's fingers. Deciding that was almost enough he went for the pin, not surprised when he got it. He stood up and shook his head. “Go near her ever again, and what I do too you will make this seem nice.” He threatened, making sure to step on Adam's broken fingers before exiting the ring.

Her mind ventured toward the past and all the times Marc had beaten her to the point where she had to go to the hospital. He'd abused her so much, especially when she refused to have sex with him. That was the main reason of his abuse and Ariella felt sick to even think that she'd been with him as long as she had. As far as Adam was concerned, Ariella knew he didn't like being turned down when he asked a woman out, but she was already with John and didn't regret it. The more she cried and sobbed, the more she realized how many mistakes she'd made in her life and knew she had to start fresh or else the past would end up coming back to haunt her. That and the fact that she knew Marc would return sooner or later, looking for revenge. Exhaustion had taken over Ariella as she ended up falling asleep, curled up into a tight ball, her hand still on her throbbing cheek. She couldn't stay awake from all the emotional shit that happened that night and just wanted to sleep it off.

John nodded when the guards moved to let him pass, smiling when he seen Ariella sleeping. Though it quickly turned into a frown when he seen her small hand wasn't covering the bruise on her face. “That bastard...” He hissed, hardly believing he shared the same genes as Marc. John quietly stuffed everything back in his duffel bag before slinging it over his shoulder and carefully picked her up. He wasted no time in getting her out to the SUV and back to the hotel, knowing how tired and worried she was. “Send up some ice please.” He instructed the desk clerk as he made his way to the elevators once arriving inside the hotel lobby.

The clerk simply nodded at him and immediately did as he asked, especially since he was the WWE champion, and carried her up to the hotel room. Ariella was slowly started to wake up and winced a little at the pain that shot throughout her cheek. She immediately jumped out of his arms, landing on the ground, not knowing where she was. “S-Stay away from me!” She shouted, her eyes still closed, having been in a nightmare, and shot her eyes open, staring into John's blue orbs. “J-John??”

John just pulled her back into his arms, stroking her brown hair. “It's all right baby, we're at the hotel now.” He soothed, guiding her over to the bed. “It's just you and me Ariel, no one else is here, no one is going to hurt you.” Ariella instantly burst out in tears as she walked over to the bed and plopped down on the bed, curling up in a tight ball, feeling her entire body rack with sheer pain. Her cheek was throbbing and she felt like she was going to throw up at any given moment, always feeling that way whenever she cried herself to sleep. John started to walk over to her but halted when he heard the rap on the door. He answered it and was handed a bucket of ice and a first aid kit, mildly surprised by that. He thanked the bus boy and quickly tipped him before closing the door and returning to Ariella. Sitting down on the edge of the bed and wrapping some ice in the cloth that lay on top of it, John softly commanded, “Come here sweetheart.”

Ariella slowly sat up, feeling her entire body aching with pain, and glanced over at the Jacuzzi before wincing as the ice collided with her bruised cheek. She hissed out in pain, but held it against it, staring into John's blue eyes, and still felt the tears sliding down her cheeks, not able to stop crying, not even in her sleep. John followed her gaze to the Jacuzzi and walked over to turn it on. “Here...” He kneeled down to start taking off her shoes, just wanting to care for her at the moment. “There's some Advil in that box if you want it.” He nodded to the open first aid kit, now pulling off her socks, bending down to kiss the top of her feet. Usually, that move would've caused her to feel pleasure, but at the moment, Ariella's body was racked with pain as she just sat there. She held the ice to her cheek, and continued to silently cry, allowing him to care for her at the moment.

John looked up at her, his eyes narrowing with concern. “What all happened tonight Ariella?” He asked softly, now moving to undress her the rest of the way. When she was down to just her bra and panties, he carried her over to the Jacuzzi and gently set her down, hoping the hot water would help her. Ariella's eyes drifted shut as she allowed the warm water to soothe her aching body, wincing in pain when the water hit her cheek a little.

“I'm sore.” She whispered, not wanting to tell him the details, and how she'd barely escaped from the two behemoths.

John nodded, reaching out to take her hand, squeezing her fingers gently. “What happened?” He asked again, knowing she was trying to give him the run around. “Please Ariella; trust me enough to tell me baby...”

Sniffling a little, Ariella looked back at him as she started crying, finally speaking. “He's going to come back. He's going to come back for me, John! Marc isn't going to stay away unless he's dead!” She started sobbing uncontrollably, burying her face in her hands, wishing this wasn’t happening.

Nodding, John stepped into the Jacuzzi after kicking off his shoes, still wearing his clothes. He pulled her onto his lap and held her, sinking down onto the bottom of the Jacuzzi, holding them both above water. “I'll take care of him.” He promised. “Ariella, I will... I swear it.” He whispered, gently rubbing her back, trying to calm her down.

Shaking her head at him and pulling out of his embrace, Ariella didn't believe him for a second because he'd done a horrible job of it so far. Marc had gotten to her three times already and she knew he was coming after her no matter what John said or made her believe. “No, you can't protect me, John. You haven't done it yet because he's too damn slick. He's like a snake that will wait all my life if it takes that long to strike and pay me back!”

John growled, already feeling angry and guilty about his inability to protect her thus far. “I'm going to fucking kill him Ariella.” He told her, completely serious with deadly intentions swimming through his blue eyes.

“You can't do that, John. You'll end up going to prison, it's not worth it. I love you, I truly love you, but he won't stop unless he's dead.” Ariella stated, her voice a low, quiet tone, wishing it wasn't true. She looked over at the wall, a million thoughts racing through her mind. “This is never going to end, not even with how badly you injured Adam tonight. This is a war now.”

John shrugged, stepping out of the Jacuzzi and beginning to peel his wet clothes off, not looking at her. “Prison doesn't scare me.” He said gruffly. “If it keeps the son of a bitch from ever hurting you again, I'll go gladly.” He grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his waist, turning to stare down at her, his blue eyes eerily calm.

Just hearing those words, Ariella burst out crying harder, bringing her knees up to her chest, and buried her face in them, shaking her head back and forth. She knew no matter what she said, John wasn't going to listen to reason with her and it was starting to tick her off. The tears couldn't stop flowing even if she wanted them to and sighed heavily, running a hand through her hair, and closed her eyes tightly shut. ‘It's never going to end unless I give myself up.’ She thought sadly, knowing John couldn't be there for her twenty four, seven.

Shaking his head, John walked over to the bar and making himself a strong drink, downing it in one swallow, wincing as it burned down his throat. “I love you Ariella.” He said quietly. “But I meant what I said.” He made a fresh drink before sinking down onto the couch, holding his head in one hand, the other holding his drink. Slowly standing up from the Jacuzzi, Ariella dried herself off in silence as she walked over to her bag, pulling out her clothes, and walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind her. She changed into a pair of black pajama pants with a red tank top and fresh panties and a bra before walking back out, still not able to stop crying. She walked past John, seeing him drinking, and crawled into bed, keeping on her side, and curled up in a tight ball. John listened to her crying and felt his heart shatter for the umpteenth time that night. He leaned back against the couch and closed his eyes, raising the glass to his lips and taking a slow swallow. He didn't know what else to do besides kill Marc; it was obvious that that was the only way to stop the sick bastard. And he had meant what he said, John was ready to go to prison for Ariella, he was ready to die for her if need be. Just what did he have to do to make her understand that? John finished off his drink and glanced back at her, seeing her curled into a ball. Placing a hand over his heart, wincing from the actual pain, he laid down and closed his eyes again, drifting off into his own world.
Chapter 16

Slowly sitting up in bed hours later, Ariella rubbed the sleep from her eyes and sighed heavily, seeing it was going on six AM, and slipped out of bed. She stretched her sore body, hating crying herself to sleep, and touched her cheek, wincing instantly. She walked over to the window, staring out of it and wrapped her arms around herself, seeing John's sleeping form in her reflection. Quietly, Ariella opened the sliding glass door and closed it behind her, leaning against the balcony, and felt the tears already sliding down her cheeks. They were still in LA and the city was already coming to life as she sighed, wondering what she was going to do about this situation with Marc and Adam.

Marc stared up at her from his place on the street, watching as she hugged herself, knowing she was crying. “My poor darling.” He whispered, longing to pull her into his arms, cursing John for all the trouble he had caused. “Don't worry Ariella; I'm going to take away all your pain...”

Ariella didn't see him as she shook her head, wiping her tears away from her face, and felt her heart clenching in her chest. She loved John so much, so much that she knew she'd have to leave him in order to keep him from committing murder. That was his cousin, his blood relative, and he was talking about killing him in cold blood with no remorse showing in his eyes. The look John's eyes gave to her that previous night caused shivers to flow throughout her body as she cried harder, not caring who heard her, and dropped to her knees on the veranda, wishing she'd never laid eyes on Marc Predka.

Marc watched her for a few moments later before disappearing, running a hand over his bald head thoughtfully. He knew Ariella well enough to know she was on the snapping point, also knowing it could go either way. “Soon...” He whispered under his breath before hiding in the shadows once more.

She watched the sun rise over the horizon, lighting the city up, and streamed on her face as she sighed, needing to get out for a few hours just to be alone. She knew John would never allow it and knew he'd be up soon, but Ariella didn't want to feel like a prisoner for the rest of her life. She had to face her fears, face Marc, and get her life back once and for all. She hadn't heard him scream out, the glass sound proof, and shook her head, wanting so badly to be with John freely.

John tossed and turned on the couch, stuck in a dream where Marc had actually killed Ariella, putting a bullet straight through her heart. Sweat beaded on John's forehead. “ARIELLA!” He yelled out, unable to help her in this night terror, tears beginning to stream down his face. John sat upright, breathing heavily. He quickly stumbled off the couch and ran for the bathroom, emptying the contents of his stomach, the dream replaying itself over and over in his mind.

Finally deciding to walk back in, Ariella shut the sliding door behind her, seeing John was up, and shook her head as she walked over to the kitchen. She ran the faucet, splashing cold water on her face, and leaned her head down, trying to find something to calm her down. John walked out of the bathroom, suffering from cotton mouth, morning and alcohol breath as well as a funky taste in his mouth. He grunted a good morning to Ariella before grabbing his duffel bag and walking back into the bathroom, turning on the shower and stepping in. He let the hot water work out the tenseness in his muscles as he reflected on everything that had happened and been said the night before. Ariella rolled her eyes, not believing how cold he was being toward her, and shook her head. She immediately walked over to the bed and began making it, needing to keep herself busy, and finished before moving onto dressing. She wore a pair of jeans with a black baby t-shirt and pulled her hair up in a ponytail**

Finally stepping out of the shower, John dried off and brushed his teeth and tongue. He quickly dressed in a pair of shorts and a white beater. He emerged from the bathroom, finding her already dressed and nodded. “You hungry?” He asked quietly, not wanting to fight with her at the moment.

“No.” She flatly replied, sitting down on the floor, and begin going through her things, not able to look him in the eye at the moment. She tucked a strand behind her ear and sighed to herself, finally able to stop crying, and bit her bottom lip as it trembled beneath while she looked over her trinkets**

John shrugged, not really feeling like eating either. “Let's hit the road then.” He suggested in the same tone of voice she had used, walking about the room to gather his stuff. “We've got several stops to make before we get to the next show.”

“Whatever.” She muttered, picking up her things as she packed them back up, and followed him out of the room silently, not even holding his hand. Her gaze kept on the floor as she followed him, all the way out to the rental car, and placed her bag in the backseat before getting in the passenger side, leaning her head against the glass after buckling up, not saying a word.

Marc watched as John and Ariella got into their vehicle and drove off, grinning broadly when he seen the obvious tension between them. He quickly pulled out two cars behind them, smiling as he thought of how it wouldn't be much longer before she was back in his arms. Especially if the Cena temper was on the rise in good ol' Johnny boy.

John blasted the radio as he drove, unable to bear this strained silence between them. He kept looking at her out of the corner of his eye, wishing he could say the right words to make things better between them but not wanting her to push him away either. Sighing heavily, Ariella looked out the window, watching as the scenery passed by while John drove. Only blaring music flowed throughout the car as she sighed, thinking back to the night she'd seen John again. He was in his military uniform for Halloween and Ariella had fallen in love with him all over again. If Marc would disappear, she could finally be happy with him, but that would never happen, no matter if Marc had one leg, as long as he was alive.

After several hours had passed, John couldn't take it anymore. He swerved off the road, ignoring the blowing horns from the other drivers and parked in the grass. Turning in his seat to face her, John’s blue eyes were filled with both hurt and determination. “What do you want me to do Ariella?” He demanded, searching her face intently.

Ariella's breath had caught in his throat as she cringed at all the blowing horns going their way and shook her head. The tears were already pooling in her eyes as she looked out the window, refusing to look him in the face. “I already told you what needs to be done, John, but you refuse to do it. You refuse to let me go back home and face his wrath alone. I don't want you going to prison for me and ruining your life!”

“You want to go off and commit suicide?” John demanded, finally giving in to his frustration. “Fine. I'll take you to the damn airport myself and even PAY for you to go do it, happy now Ariella? Is that what you want?” His blue eyes darkened over with anger as he hit the steering wheel, ignoring her when she jumped in her seat.

“No, I'm far from happy, John. I'm miserable.” She whispered softly, looking into his eyes, and shook her head as she looked back out he window, leaning her head on her hand as she stared out at the flat land. John would never understand and she wasn't going to waste her time and energy trying to convince him of it. “You do what you want, John, but if you go to prison, don't expect me to visit you.” She stated in a low, serious tone of voice, crossing her arms in front of her chest.

*John just stared at her for a moment before getting out of the car and walking around to open her door, unfastening her and pulling her out into his arms. “I’m so sorry Ariella...” He whispered, burying his face in her neck, wrapping his arms around her waist.

Ariella burst out crying as she wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning her head on his shoulder, and sniffled incredibly loud, wishing they didn't have to go through this. She could feel his tears coating her neck and stroked his hair, knowing he was hurting just as much as her, and knew he felt like a failure from not protecting her the past three times. It wasn't his fault; it was her own stupidity for not staying near him and following his orders. However, Ariella knew how far Marc would go to get her back and trembled at the memory of what he'd done last time she'd tried to leave him. John looked up in time to see a blue car come hurtling off the road at them and quickly shoved Ariella out of harms way before leaping himself, getting clipped and going flying down into the ditch that was nearby.

Marc quickly got out of the car and grabbed Ariella's arm, jerking her to her feet, pulling a gun out of his pocket. “Get in the car or I'll kill him.” He threatened, meaning every word that came from his mouth.

Ariella rolled on the ground, groaning in pain as she looked over at John, seeing him lying on the ground, and gasped when Marc had a gun to him. “No! Marc, don't please!” She begged, clasping her hands together, and felt his grip on her arm. “Please don't hurt him!”

Marc pressed the gun to the back of John's head, grinning when he seen John was out cold. “Get in the car honey.” He said, looking over at her. “Or I'll splatter his brains everywhere, how'd that be hmmm?” He took the safety off of the gun for emphasis.

Tears streamed down her cheeks as she looked at John, seeing he was unconscious, and got down on her knees as she nodded. “Okay, okay you win. You win, Marc. I'll go, please don't hurt him. I'll do anything, just please, don't kill him!” She cried out, her heart clenching in her chest, and felt the tears stinging her cheek as she looked into his cold blue eyes.

Marc grinned cheerfully, waving the gun at her, chuckling when she got up and slowly moved towards his car. “Don't look back at him... he's not worth your concern anymore.” Marc grabbed her arm and pulled her against him, pressing the gun against the small of her back. “You've been a very naughty girl Ariella; I think I should shoot him just to punish you.” He ran the gun up and down her back, staring down into her eyes.

Shaking her head at him fearfully, Ariella stepped away from him and ripped her grasp out of his hand as she glared at him. “I won't go with you unless you swear on your mother's grave that you won't harm a hair of John's head!” She was standing right in front of him so Marc could only shoot her and not him.

Groaning Marc nodded, ushering her into the car, he looked back when his cousin started to stir. “Time to be going.” He slipped in the car besides her, staring at her for a moment before whacking her on the back of the head with the butt of the gun, wincing when her forehead dropped, hitting the dash. “Damn...” Shaking his head he sped off, his grin broadening when he seen a sign advertising Las Vegas so many miles off and began to hum the wedding march.

~*~*~*~*~*~

John woke up to find himself in a hospital. He groaned, looking around for Ariella and panicking when he didn't see her. “Ariel!” He shouted, sitting up and grabbing the IV that was in his arm, gritting his teeth and pulling it out. He ripped the sheet and wrapped it around his arm to stop the bleeding, getting out of the bed. “Ariella?” The doctor came in and looked him over, sighing heavily when John demanded to be released. John was released on the condition he have someone come pick him up. Slightly irritated, he sat in the nurse’s station and called everyone he knew, growing more and more frustrated when he found most already on the road. Finally, he punched in David's number and waited.

Answering the phone as he heard it ringing, David gruffly replied in a heartbroken voice, “What?”

“Man, where are you at? I'm stuck in the damn hospital. Please, tell me your close by?” John practically begged, knowing he had to get the hell out of here and find Ariella.

David agreed to pick up John after getting the instructions on where the hospital was located as he hung up the phone and quickly packed his things. Within a half an hour, he pulled up to the hospital and helped John in, seeing how fucked up the man looked. “Damn what the Hell happened to you? Where's Ariella?”

John shrugged off the help. “I got hit by a car.” He said gruffly, looking out the window before glancing at his friend. “Remember that guy Marc I told you about? He fucking kidnapped her!”

“Oh shit!” David stated in surprise, running a hand through his hair, and wondered where Marc could've taken her.

“That doesn't make me feel better, man.” John said shortly, watching buildings roll by. “Where's the next show at? Wouldn't he be there?” He was just speaking off the top of his head, trying to think of where his cousin would take Ariella, trying to remember what places were close to where they'd been. “Oh hell no!” He exclaimed eyes widening, wondering if Marc might've taken her to Vegas for one of those quick weddings.

David slammed on the breaks and pulled over, more cars honking as they passed him by, and looked over at his best friend. “What the fuck, man?! You gonna tell me what's going on in your head or what?”

“Vegas!” John nearly shouted, his heart racing rapidly. “I'll bet you anything that son of a bitch took her there!”

“Dude, do you realize how many hotels there are in Vegas?” David asked out of curiosity while pulling back on the highway, turning around, and going toward the way of Vegas, seeing it was only about twenty miles away from where they'd stopped at.

“It's the only lead I've got, Dave. Mind not squashing my hope here buddy?” John demanded his heart sinking as he thought about it. “Marc is an arrogant son of a bitch but he doesn't have much taste, so cancel out the MGM....”

David sighed as he kept driving and soon, they arrived in the city of Las Vegas. He turned to John after stopping a red light and asked, “Where to first, man?”
Chapter 17

Groaning softly, Ariella slowly opened her eyes sometime later that night and looked around, seeing she was in a hotel room, and bit her bottom lip. She rubbed the back of her head, feeling the lump, and felt the tears instantly pool in her eyes at the memory of John. ‘I love you, please don't forget me.’ She thought heartbrokenly, knowing exactly who she was with. The smell alone told her as she shivered with fear, wondering where he'd gone off to.

“Nice to see you awake.” Marc spoke up from his place in the corner, a red light on her chest, indicating he was aiming the gun at her. “Try running and I'll shoot you darling.” He stood up slowly, stepping into the patch of moonlight that streamed through the curtains. “I was planning on marrying you but then I decided against it. I don't think I could honestly take a whore as my wife.”

Swallowing hard as she looked up into his blue eyes, Ariella knew not to look away from him, but then again, it really wouldn't have mattered anyway. “Then what do you want with me?” She questioned in a low voice, refusing to even get angry with him, and tried not to move as the red dot moved up and down her chest. In a way, Ariella wished he would just pull the trigger and end her misery, especially since she would never see John again.

“Just because I'm not making an honest woman of you Ariella doesn't mean you can't be my whore.” Marc whispered darkly. He sank down into a chair placed directly in front of the bed and waved the gun at her. “Take off your clothes.”

“I'd rather die.” She stated in a cold voice, meaning what she said, and crossed her arms in front of her chest in defiance. “Go ahead; pull the fuckin trigger, Marc. You've robbed me of everything that ever meant anything to me! Just pull the fuckin trigger and kill me already!”

Marc's blue eyes narrowed angrily. Very slowly and deliberately, he emptied the gun's chamber of bullets before tossing the gun across the room. “Killing you would be too easy; it'd almost be like giving you what you want.” He said coldly before lunging at her, his hands wrapping around her throat, shoving her back onto the bed, easily overpowering her. “You can be John's slut but you can't be mine? I don't think so baby!” He laughed cruelly at her struggles and gasps for air.

Ariella immediately began struggling against him and kicked him in the stomach before kneeing him in the face. Marc stumbled back, causing her to stand on her feet, and got into a fighting stance, just like John had showed her. “I hate you. I loathe you. I detest you. I'm not a slut, a whore, whatever else you wanna call me because John is the ONLY man I've slept with and who I'll EVER sleep with as long as there's an ounce of fight left in me!”

Marc glared at her, observing the way she held herself. “There's not even going to be an ounce left of anything when I'm through with you.” He promised darkly, approaching her warily.

Smirking back at him, Ariella rolled her eyes as she sighed, shaking her head. “That's old, Marc, get new fuckin' words or don't speak at all.” She advised coldly, still in her fighting stance, and didn't feel any fear inside of her any longer. “You can beat me down to the point of unconsciousness, but you'll NEVER have me the way John does! He'll always have my full heart whether you like it or not!”

Anger coursing through him, Marc went after her, grunting in surprise when she moved out of the way and did something to him, moving to fast for him to really see. “You fucking bitch!” He roared, spinning around, swinging his arms out.

Ariella shook her head, not believing how easy this was, and continued to play cat and mouse with him as she rolled her eyes. “Come on, Marc, what's the matter? Can't catch me? Can't hold me under your power anymore? Can't even hit me once?” She taunted him, knowing he'd make a mistake with how much rage that was going to build inside of him, and kept tiptoeing around him.

Marc shook his head, moving backwards, his hand reaching out to fumble behind the bed, finally pulling out a baseball bat. “Fuck you!” He snarled, swinging it at her, a gasp of pain telling him he'd at least got her leg.

Ariella winced as she managed to stumble about on her one leg and slowly made it over to the chair, shaking her head as the tears flowed down her face just as the lights turned on, having flipped the switch. “What do you want from me, Marc? What do you honestly want from me? You knew I loved John.” Sounding completely defeated, Ariella looked up at him, seeing how much rage was in his eyes and stood up, walked over to him, and touched his face with her hands. “What happened to the Marc Predka I met and thought was too cute for his own damn good?” She pulled the bat from his grip and dropped it to the floor. “What happened to him? You've turned into this monster I don't even know anymore and fear tremendously. What happened to the Marc who I used to cry to about John?”

“That's just it sweetheart…” He murmured grabbing her hands in his, kissing her palms. “You were only with me because you COULDN'T have John.” He bashed his head against her, letting go of her to watch her stumble back. “Then when you seen him at that Halloween party... you were just so distraught!” He continued conversationally. “Nothing like seeing your girlfriend mooning over her old crush to really bring out the best in you!” He chuckled, shoving her back into the wall with all his strength. “Call me jealous if you will Ariella....”

Ariella felt her world spinning from the head butt as she looked at him, shaking her head, and sighed deeply. “You know what, Marc? Do it. Rape me, beat me, torment me, get your revenge. I'm not going to run from you anymore. I'm going to face you and your wrath, no matter how brutal it is.” Ariella winced as she tried to shake herself mentally, staring into his eyes as his body pressed to hers. “Don’t blame this on John because you started hitting me right after we started going out. I thought you were this really great guy that I could see myself with, since John had been such an asshole, but I was wrong. So go ahead, do what you want with me, you win, does that make you happy?” Her voice was low, cold, and dead, no emotion whatsoever shining in her eyes, the tears purely from the pain.

This wasn't exactly what Marc wanted but he figured he could make do, knowing sooner or later she'd probably snap out of it. “You know something? I don't like your attitude...” He whispered, bending down to kiss her lips, not surprised when they gave away nothing. “You remember Carol don't you? One phone call from me and she'll be on the morning news.” He grabbed her arms and tossed her onto the bed, quickly straddling her waist. “So if you don't want to be responsible for her death, I suggest you put your back into this.” His voice was low and threatening, meaning exactly what he said.

Ariella stared up at him with emotionless eyes, shaking her head, refusing to fight him on this. “Go ahead; kill your own flesh and blood. I got what I wanted and that was your promise and oath you wouldn't touch John. That's all I wanted so go ahead, do whatever you were planning.” She stated her voice still the same tone, and didn't move an inch, knowing fighting wouldn't do any good, especially in this situation.

Marc shook his head, smirking. “Ariella, don't be so damn stupid, it doesn't suit you. Knowing full well what kind of man I am, do you really think some little thing like a promise is going to stop me from killing that prick?” He snarled, his eyes shining with insanity. “I just said that to get your ass in the damn car.” He bent down and kissed her lightly. “You really are a stupid whore aren't you?”

No emotion shined in her eyes when she heard that, knowing he was only saying that to get her to fight with him, and just laid there, not kissing him back, not touching him. She refused to give into the temptation and knew she'd probably end up dead by morning, but then again, she was better off that way. John could protect himself, that much she knew, she wasn't worried, especially with Marc watching over her twenty four hours, seven days a week. She didn't respond to what he said, just laid there and let him have his way with her, refusing to cry, refusing to utter one word. Frustrated Marc began ripping her clothes off, determined to take what had been so long denied him. He shrugged when he didn't get a response from her, deciding he'd just take her then go off his cousin, maybe he'd even let her watch.

When Ariella felt Marc enter her, she immediately squeezed her eyes shut, a few tears trickling down her cheeks, and pictured John in her mind. His soft, brown hair, his blue eyes she loved so much, his hard rock, muscular body, everything about him pierced her heart and mind, causing her to completely block out what was happening to her at the moment. She still didn't move, didn't even wrap her legs around his waist, nothing. She wasn't going to give Marc the satisfaction and completely delved John in her mind, heart, memory. Marc seen the tears and smirked, bending down to lick them away. “Just fucking lay there and stop crying.” He ordered, pounding in her roughly, not caring if she was dry. “Though I do have one question to ask: John ever fuck you like the bitch you are?” He pulled out and rolled her over, grabbing her legs and pulling her towards him.

Ariella bit back a serious cry of pain as she squeezed her eyes shut, refusing to give into him, and allowed him to take her anally, refusing to fight him on this. Her mind completely focused on John, trying to look past the pain, and laid on the bed like a limp fish while he fucked her from behind. ‘I love you, John.’ She thought, biting down on her lip harder than ever, and sighed with inner relief when the pain slowly surpassed, knowing there would be blood afterwards.

Marc shook his head, fondling her body roughly, pinching and nipping at her. When he felt he was about to release he pulled out and quickly rolled her over, spraying his seed all over her face, “Open wide darling.”

Instead of opening her mouth, Ariella allowed his seed to spread all over her face, still laying there prone and lifeless. Her eyes kept closed along with her mouth, hoping he killed her after not swallowing his seed, flat out refusing to do so, and felt him get off of her. Ariella didn't move an inch as she felt the horrid substance on her face and wanted to rip Marc's heart out with her hand. ‘I hate him.’ She thought, still refusing to move.

Marc shook his head, reaching out to grab her by the hair and dragging her off the bed, ignoring the sound of her body hitting the floor and just pulled her into the bathroom. “You're such a messy slut Ariella, John teaching you bad manners hmmm?” He opened the lid to the toilet and shoved her face in the bowl. “Wash up now sweetheart.” He laughed evilly, watching her sputter for more air.

Ariella coughed as she opened her mouth, swallowing the toilet water, and finally ripped her head out, coughing and gasping for air, holding her abdomen with her arms wrapped around her midsection. Once she'd gotten her breathing back under control, Ariella slowly stood up to her feet and smiled sadistically back at him as she asked, “That the best you can do?”

“Oh no darling. I've got plenty more where that came from.” Marc replied, doubling his fist and punching her in the stomach, grinning when she hunched over. “Maybe you should stick with your turnip act Ariella...”

Ariella doubled over, holding her midsection even tighter, and began coughing up blood as she spit a nice wad on the floor, slowly standing up to her feet straight and held up her hand. “Come on, give me more.” She ordered, not about to give into him as she taunted him, wishing she were dead right now.

Marc shook his finger in her face. “Ah, ah, ah... I can't kill you darling, I love you!” He dragged her back out into the main room and opened the closet door, revealing the empty closet. “Your room my lady.” He tossed her inside, laughing as he closed the door. Marc slid the dresser in front of it before getting dressed and walking towards the door. “I'll be back soon baby, then we can go for round two!” Ariella heard the door close and immediately began kicking at the door, causing the dresser to fall over, crashing to the floor. She winced as she opened the door, wincing at how much pain she was in, and immediately dressed in her clothes before walking out of the room. She seen Marc nowhere in sight and immediately bolted down the hallway, taking the backstairs, and crashed through the backdoor, wincing as she coughed more, and immediately ran down the street of Las Vegas in her pants and ripped shirt.

~*~*~*~*~*~

“I don't know...” John muttered miserably, his eyes taking in every hotel they passed, frowning when he seen what looked like a bald guy walking out of one of the shabby motels on the far end of the strip. “Try down there...”

David began driving toward it and stopped when he seen a woman stumbling down the sidewalk, immediately pulling over, and looked over at John with widened eyes. “John, is that her?!”

John was already out of the car, running after the woman. “Ariella!” He shouted, struggling to get past a crowd of tourists. “Ariella! It's John! ARIEL!” Ariella heard John's voice and immediately turned around, looking like a Mack truck ran her over, and stumbled toward him. She was coughing up more blood and finally collapsed on the sidewalk as everyone surrounded them when he finally got to her. The darkness surrounded her body instantly as the blood poured from her mouth, looking up at him, and smiled before allowing her body to fall into unconsciousness.

David seen a gun aimed at John and immediately got out of the car, shouting, “EVERYONE DOWN!” The cops were already coming as David ran toward John, crashing him to the ground as the bullet fired from Marc's gun, barely grazing his leg, and bellowed out in pain. “OH FUCK!”

“We need an ambulance!” John shouted, not daring to touch her. Then his world went flying along with his body, something very, very heavy landing on him. “David?” He wheezed out. “You... all... right... man?”

David looked down, seeing the bullet had grazed his leg, and groaned out in sheer pain as he nodded, though he knew he'd have to go to the hospital. “Yeah...Yeah I'm fine.” He'd managed to stand up on his feet, refusing medical attention, though Ariella needed it fast, especially since her pulse was rapidly declining.

John sucked in air, watching as an ambulance backed onto the sidewalk, EMT's surrounding Ariella. He was reminded of the night Marc had choked her out in the bathroom as he climbed into the ambulance with her, watching as the EMT's worked frantically to get her pulse stable. “Come on baby...” He whispered, tears filling his eyes. David watched as the cops had Marc on the ground, cuffing him, and confiscated his gun before getting in his car, bleeding leg or not, and started driving out of Las Vegas.
Chapter 18

Her heart ended up stopping three different times on the way to the hospital, but they managed to bring her back to life. Once they arrived at the hospital, they immediately took her into ER, trying to get her under stability, and forced John to wait out in the lobby. John paced back and forth, waiting anxiously for news. Every time a nurse or a doctor would walk out, he'd look up hopefully only for that hope to be dashed when they walked right on by him. “God, please don't let her die.” He prayed, sinking down to his knees, not caring about how much pain he was in at the moment.

Three hours later, a doctor finally came out, blood coating his scrubs that was obviously Ariella's, and called out exhaustedly, “Family of Ariella Johnson?”

John looked up from the chair he'd been sitting in, instantly standing up and walking over to the doctor. “Is she...” He hesitated, not able to bring himself to even ask the full question, his eyes widening when he seen the blood on the doctor’s scrubs.

The doctor took a deep breath as he sighed heavily. “Ariella is finally stable after we tended to her wounds. She has three broken ribs, multiple lacerations in her vaginal walls…She was raped, sir. She also had some semen on her face that we're confiscating for the police. She also has a cut on her cheek and a swollen eye. Other than that, its just a bunch of bumps and bruises, but when she wakes up, she needs to be informed that she might have difficulty having children in the future due to the extensive and severity of the injuries inside of her.”

John breathed a sigh of relief when he heard she was stable only for his face to grow paler and paler as he listened to the doctor. “Can I go in and see her?” He finally asked, needing to see her breathing and whatnot for himself.

Nodding, the doctor told him the room number, and walked off to tend to his other patients. When John walked into the room, Ariella lay prone in the bed, looking paler than ever, and had two IV's sticking out of her arm, attached to machines that beeped every few seconds. She had tubes up her nose as her chest rose and fell slowly, her injuries evident, especially since almost the whole side of her right face was bruised. John kneeled next to the bed, reaching out to gently take her hand. “I'm so sorry Ariella...” He whispered, guilt coursing through him. “I should've... been there to protect you and I wasn't.” His voice broke, tears running down his face. “You were right, I can't protect you...”

Slowly fluttering her eyes open upon hearing his voice, Ariella looked around her surroundings. Seeing she was no longer in downtown Las Vegas with the lights flashing over her body, Ariella felt the tears of relief fill her eyes along with the pain her body was racked with. She heard John and immediately whipped her head, wincing and crying out in pain when she did that, and felt the tears already running down her face. “J-J-John...!”

John looked up, his eyes widening when he seen her looking at him, crying apparently from pain. “Don't move baby, you're really hurt.” He whispered, unable to keep the pain from his own voice, dying inside just from seeing her like this. “I thought I lost you…”John pressed his lips to her hand. “I thought...” He swallowed, unable to finish that statement.

“C-Calm...down...” She managed to rasp out, closing her eyes as she laid in the hospital bed, and looked around, staring down into his blue eyes as she opened them again. “W-What happened? Marc...”

“Marc is going to be spending a lot of time behind bars.” John told her softly. “You collapsed on the sidewalk and just as I reached you, he tired shooting me. David took the shot...” John frowned, hoping his friend was all right. “There's enough witnesses and evidence against him... I don't think we'll be hearing from him anytime soon.” John sighed, wondering how he was going to explain the children thing to her, not even wanting to tell her how bad she was off.

A huge breath of relief escaped her lips as she winced, moving the tiniest bit putting her in pain, and couldn't stop the tears from sliding down her cheeks even if her life depended on it. “D-D-David...was....shot?”

John reached out to lightly wipe away the tears, his eyes studying her bruised face. “The bullet grazed his leg, don't worry, the big man will be all right.” He assured her, assuring himself while he was at it. “You should probably get some sleep Ariella, you need to rest.”

Swallowing hard, Ariella winced more as she nodded, finally crying out in pain as she burst into tears, remembering all the horrible things Marc did to her. “H-H-He r-r-raped m-me...”

John wished her could take her into his arms but knew with her broken ribs he couldn't, instead settling for sitting on the edge of the bed, holding her hand in his. “I know Ariella...” He whispered, wishing there was something he could do to take away her pain.

Ariella fell asleep in no time, not able to take the pain anymore, and closed her eyes as the darkness took over her body. She was in the hospital for the next two weeks before she was able to be released, put on strict bed rest, and she hadn't spoken one word. Ariella felt her heart break into a million pieces when she found out she would have difficulty having children in the future. As for Marc, she'd pressed charges against him and he was sentenced to prison for life. No trial needed to be had, especially with how many witnesses and evidence was pinned against him.

John had taken time off from work again to be with her, him and Carol convincing her to stay at the house where they could tend to her. John would sit with her for hours, sometimes just watching her, other times trying to coax her into speaking. Finally he just gave up and talked to her, describing how the weather was changing, news on family and friends, anything he thought she might like to hear, always hoping to get at least a word out of her.

Ariella didn't argue staying at the Cena residence, always enjoying it over there, but refused to use the downstairs bathroom. It'd been two months since the incident and her ribs were healing nicely. Her insides were already healed and she had to go to the doctor once a week to get checked up on, making sure everything was healing as it should. Ariella didn't even speak to the doctor, not wanting to speak to anyone, and didn't know if she'd ever talk again. Her silence finally broke one night as she stood out on the veranda, watching the spring weather floating in, and had her slippers on with her black pajama pants and a white long sleeved shirt, just staring out at the horizon and the stars glistened above them.

John stood besides her, rarely leaving her side these days even though he was basically out of a job, not caring anymore, always knowing it wouldn’t be hard to get it back. He stared up at the stars, his hands resting on the railing. “Beautiful night...” He murmured, not expecting a response from her.

Running a hand through her hair, Ariella looked up at them, wrapping her arms around herself, and looked down at the ground as she sighed. “I hoped he would've killed me.” She very quietly said, barely audible, not looking at him as she said it.

John looked at her startled, not having heard a word from her in two months. His eyes widened at her choice of first words. “Why did you hope he'd kill you?” He asked softly, not moving, afraid he’d scare her back into her silence.

“Because I thought I'd never see you again. I would've rather died than spend the rest of my life stuck with him.” Her voice was the same low tone, refusing to raise or lower, just staying at the same pitch. Her eyes remained gazing out at the horizon, not able to stare John in the face, especially after what she was about to tell him.

John rubbed the back of his neck, turning to look at her, still leaning against the railing. His blue eyes studied her thoughtfully, taking in the way she held herself, already having noticed her voice. “Why won't you look at me?” He whispered finally, noticing she refused to lock eyes with him.

“I can't.” She whispered back, running a hand through her hair, and could feel the tears already shimmering in her eyes.

Almost hesitantly, John moved closer to her. “Why can't you Ariella?” He asked softly, wishing there was something he could say or do to help her through this. “You know I love you, don't you?”

Nodding, Ariella looked to the side away from him before turning her back to him, wiping the few tears away from her eyes that had escaped, and sighed heavily. “I know you love me, and I love you, but after what happened...” She had to pause to take a deep breath, not wanting to break down in front of him. “I feel...ashamed.”

John felt as if someone had squeezed his heart in their fist at her words. “Ariella, it wasn't your fault.” He whispered, moving so he was standing in front of her, reaching out to tilt her head up so she was looking at him. “None of this was your fault, Marc.... What he did too you...” John sighed, staring down into her eyes. “Baby, he's the one who should feel ashamed, not you.”

Shaking her head and pulling away from him, Ariella sniffled a little and wrapped her arms around herself. “You don't understand, John. You don't get it.” She softly stated, tucking a strand of hair behind her hair that had escaped, and tried so hard not to cry, but couldn't stare into his eyes or else she would completely lose it.

John held out his hands, palms facing up, his eyes pleading with her. “Then make me understand Ariella, I want to help you through this baby... But you have to let me in again.”

“I didn't fight him…” She began in a softer voice, barely audible, and felt her bottom lip quivering. “I didn't fight him, John.” She repeated, using his name this time, and tried to take a deep breath to calm her racing heart. “I allowed him to do...what he did to me...”

Frowning, John felt his eyebrows raising, not understanding her. “What do you mean Ariella?” He asked gently. “Why didn't you fight him?”

“I fought him at first, but he got the upper hand and hit me with a baseball bat. Then he started taunting me and I finally realized, if I don't fight him, he'll get even more pissed and maybe he'll kill me. I refused to give into what he wanted, John. I REFUSED to give him what he wanted!!” She repeated herself, wanting to get that point across very clearly, and leaned against the ledge as she raked her hands through her hair, staring out at the horizon, her tears glistening in the moonlight. “I told you, I wanted him to kill me and figured if I didn't give into him that he'd end up killing me.” Her voice had dropped several octaves, barely able to hear.

John raked a hand through his hair, closing his eyes, her pain almost killing him. “Ariel...” He whispered, moving to take her into his arms. “You did... you did what you thought you had too...” He gently placed his hands on her waist. “Look at me Ariel...”

“I can't...” She whispered out, trailing off, and walked away from him off the veranda. She ran up the stairs, hearing him hot on her trail, and walked into the spare bedroom she was staying in and into the bathroom that was attached to her room, closing the door behind her.

John hesitated at her bedroom door before walking in, seeing the closed bathroom door and walking over to it, stopping at the door. Sighing he leaned against it, pressing his forehead against the cool wood. “Don't shut me out Ariella.” He said gently, his tone pleading with her to let him in her heart. To allow him to help her heal from what Marc put her through. “I'm not going anywhere, I love you. Let me help you through this, please.”

Ariella sighed heavily, hearing John's pleading voice through the bathroom door, and ran a hand through her hair. She hesitantly walked over, opening the door, and walked out past him, crossing her arms in front of her chest, and sat down on the bed, rubbing the back of her neck of tension. She leaned forward, looking at her hands, doing everything in her power not to look up into his blue eyes that she'd missed so much. Not about to give up, John crossed the room to kneel down in front of her, resting his hands on her knees. “Ariella, please, let me in baby.” He whispered, squeezing her knees gently. “I want to help you, why won't you let me?”

“I'm scared...” She whispered, running a hand through her hair, and still didn't look at him, though his hands felt like they were burning through her pajama pants. “I don't want you to look at me with disappointment. I couldn't live with that, John...”

John inhaled sharply; shocked that she would even consider that. “I'm not disappointed Ariel.” He said, cupping her chin in his hand and forcing her to look at him, his blue eyes shining with the love he felt for her. “I could never be disappointed when it comes to you, don't you know that baby?” He shook his head slowly, his eyes never leaving hers. “I am so in love with you, every time you hurt I feel like I'm dying...When you cry all I want to do is kiss away your pain. I just want you...to love me again.” His voice grew soft, but the pain was clear in his tone.

Ariella couldn't take it anymore as she burst out in tears, covering her face with her hands in front of him, and shook her head as her sobs echoed off the bedroom walls. “I never stopped loving you, John...I'm just...I'm so scared right now. I don't want you to resent me for not being able to have your children one day or something, if we get to that point.”

John smiled slightly, reaching out to gently pry her hands away from her face. “Ariel, I'm going to love you whether we do or we don't have kids. We'll cross that bridge when we get there baby, all I want is to be with you.” John couldn't help himself and pulled her down into his arms, holding her like he would never let her go.

Finally giving in, Ariella finally wrapped her arms around his neck, burying her face in the crook of his neck, and sniffled as she held him just as tight. “You've been so patient and understanding. I love you so much.” She whispered, needing to feel him at the moment, needing all of his love to pour on her like a raging waterfall as she kissed his neck softly, trying to will the tears to stop. “I want to be with you too.”
He almost cried with relief, actually a few tears did slide down his cheeks. He buried his face in her hair, suddenly realizing how afraid he'd never get her back he had been. “I love you too.” He whispered, pulling her closer, his hands running up and down her back soothingly. “I love you so much Ariella.”

Pulling back to stare into his eyes, Ariella's sparkled back at him, that same fire and light slowly returning, and ran her fingers down his face. “I know I know you do, blue eyes.” She murmured and couldn't help it as she leaned forward, brushing her lips against his, and pulled back as her eyes suddenly darkened a little, her eyes never leaving his. This was where she belonged and where she was going to stay.

They remained together for the rest of their lives, marrying, having children, and had each other to grow old with. The pregnancies were miracles because Ariella’s doctor said she’d end up losing all of her children she risked having. They ended up having three children, two boys and a beautiful angelic daughter. Their names were Marcus, Ayden, and Jaylin, all exactly five years apart. Ariella became a writer, staying home with her children, being the beautiful wife that cooked, cleaned, all the fun things that domesticated life came with. However, she did land a number one best sellers on the New York Times best seller list. She’d stayed up every night for the past five years, after Jaylin’s birth, writing her life story, and called it ‘The Letter’. John ended up retiring from wrestling after he turned forty, wanting to be home with his wife and children. It was amazing how one simple letter could change someone’s mind so rapidly about another, which is what happened between them. Ariella and John loved each other from the beginning, but it took the letter to bring them truly together forever.

The End.