Page 26 of Arturo's Temptation

“Just this once, and it’s only because it’s you asking, Pa.”

There was a firm knock at the door, and I already knew who it was: Mr. Tall, Tricky and Tattooed, likely carrying a plate of something my Mama had made.

“Come in,” my father called..

“Apologies for the interruption, but I said I’d bring something for Isabella to eat.” Arturo placed the plate on my father’s desk in front of me before heading towards the door again. I grit my teeth together.

“Arturo, stay a moment, I’d like to discuss Isabella’s training.”Fuck’s sake.

“No, I’ll go.” I stood with a sharp breath, clutching the plate in my fingers. “I can eat lunch with Mama, and talk about getting a new dress.”

“You worked her hard today, Arturo,” my father beamed.

“Yeah. Somethin’ like that.” They shared a chuckle as I slipped out of the office.

I hated that guy.

I relaxed on the bed,as Theo came bounding into my room, his usual smile brightening the darkness.

“Auntie Bell!”

“There’s my little man, how was kindergarten?” I beamed, sitting up as he snuggled into my lap.

“Great! We were learning about caterbillars today!”

“Caterpillars, eh?” I ruffled his hair. “They turn into bees, right?”

“No, silly Auntie B. Butterflies.” He laughed. “Oh, and look at this. I can write the whole albabet now.”

“My little genius.” I smiled, giving him a squeeze. After a moment, Theo let out a deep sigh. “What’s wrong, sweetie?”

“It’s not the same. Why can’t you pick me up from school?” He looked up at me with watery eyes.

“Oh, Theo, but it’s nice for you to be with your Papa though. He’s missed you so much.” His blue eyes, so much like Peyton’s, filled with guilt.

“I know, but can you come tomorrow, please? Papa won’t mind,” he pleaded. I heaved a sigh.

“I’m sorry, Theo, I don’t know if I can,” I started and was immediately interrupted.

“Your auntie can collect you tomorrow.” Arturo leaned against the door frame, a black t-shirt moulded to his muscular body, grey sweats hanging low on his hips, his tattooed feet on show. “I’ll make sure of it.”

“You mean it?” Theo jumped to his feet, sprinting towards Arturo who smiled wide.

“If it’s good with your Papa, I’ll drive Auntie Bella myself to collect you.”

Theo looked as if he was starstruck, fuck knows why. He raised his hand in the air as he high fived Arturo’s waiting palm.

“I’m going to ask Papa right now!” He sprinted from the room, toppling a lamp in his hurry.

“Isabella.”

“You’ve done your good deed, London boy, you can go now. I’ve got nothing to say to you,” I swung my legs off the edge of the bed and stalked towards the bathroom.

“You sore?” I turned back to frown at him. To my surprise, his face seemed somewhat concerned.

“Don’t pretend like you give a shit.”

“What makes you think I don’t?” He leaned against the wall, folding his arms.

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