108. The ritual

Veronica was in the kitchen, looking after the dinner arrangements for the guests when someone tickled her waist. She almost jumped in shock before almost running away. Aiden Knight laughed heartily.

“Aiden? You.. Was it you? I was so scared” she wiped off the sweat from her forehead.

Veronica's heart raced as she spotted Aiden amidst the dimly lit alley. She hesitated, the fear palpable in her voice as she spoke his name. Aiden's laughter echoed off the brick walls, his amusement at her reaction evident.

He grinned, still chuckling as he watched her wipe the sweat from her forehead. "Oh God. Look at you... you jumped so far," he said, his laughter infectious.

Veronica's concern deepened as she glanced around nervously. "What are you doing here? If anyone sees us together, it would raise their suspicions."

Aiden's laughter faded as he approached her, his gaze intense as he pulled her close. "I so wish to take off this mask from your head and..." He leaned in, his lips dangerously cl