Chapter 4: Chapter 4 Alice's Arrival
As Katon's best friend, Morgan had learned to expect the unexpected from him. Their friendship, forged in the crucible of high school, had exposed him to a side of Katon's life that was both exhilarating and dangerous. He didn't immediately open the door; instead, he checked the security camera. "Of course," Morgan muttered under his breath as his eyes scanned the monitor.
The camera showed a woman with a slightly tanned complexion, whether natural or sun-kissed, he couldn't tell. Her long, golden-brown hair framed a face with beautiful, worried eyes.
"Who is it?" Morgan asked through the intercom.
"Uhm, is Katon there? Is he alright?" she asked, her voice trembling with concern.
Motherfucker! Morgan cursed inwardly. "Yeah, he's here. And he's fine. May I ask your name, miss?"
"Alice. Alice Wellington."
Satisfied that she was 'clean,' Morgan opened the door, muttering under his breath. "Please, come in, Miss. Wait here while I get Katon." He led Alice through the foyer and into the living room, then strode towards the master bedroom, heading straight for the bathroom.
"What the hell! Fucking shit! I'm still a normal guy, Morg! Damn it!" Katon yelled, hastily covering his naked body as Morgan barged into the bathroom.
"You! Sleeping with a Brooklyn gangster's girlfriend!"
"Watch your mouth!" Katon retorted.
"Watch your dick!" Morgan shot back, just as loud.
Katon chuckled, his voice deep and amused. He stepped out of the shower, a towel wrapped around his waist, rubbing his hair with a smaller towel. Morgan stood before him, their heights nearly identical, their physiques equally impressive. Morgan placed his right hand on Katon's bare chest.
"Move your hand or I'll break it," Katon growled, his eyes flashing dangerously.
"Get dressed and meet Alice Wellington, you motherfucker!"
"Alice is here?" Katon asked, startled, and Morgan rolled his eyes. Katon barely restrained himself from punching Morgan. He hated when people rolled their eyes at him. It felt condescending!
Only the thought of Alice waiting in the living room stopped him from attacking Morgan on the spot. Katon shoved Morgan's hand away and headed to the closet. "Could you do me a favor, Morg? Get us some drinks."
"Asshole, you think I'm your butler, Mr. Collins?" Morgan grumbled, but Katon just laughed. Morgan left the room, but instead of heading to the living room, he went to the kitchen, preparing drinks for Alice, all the while muttering curses under his breath.
Morgan entered the living room carrying a tray with a single drink for Alice. Katon arrived at the same time. Alice immediately stood and rushed into Katon's arms, burying her face in his neck, sobbing. Katon smoothly caught her, turning her so that her back was to Morgan, while he faced his friend. Just in time! As Alice began to cry, Morgan made a gagging gesture. Katon winked mischievously.
"It's okay, Alice... it's okay, Choco Girl," Katon murmured, gently stroking her back. While he comforted Alice, Morgan approached, his lips moving silently, muttering curses. Katon gestured with his free hand, signaling Morgan to place the drink on the table near them.
"I... I'm sorry, Katon," Alice sobbed, finally pulling away.
"Hey, it's not your fault. It's not your fault, sweetheart," Katon said, noticing Morgan's exaggerated eye roll directed at the wall. Katon reached for the drink, pretending to throw it at Morgan, who instinctively ducked. In reality, Katon simply took the glass to give to Alice. He couldn't resist the chance to tease Morgan.
"Drink this, dear..." Katon soothed.
"Are... are you okay?" Alice asked, still sniffling. Katon put on a pained expression, as if he had lost something precious.
"Actually, there's something serious I need to talk to you about, Katon," Alice said, her voice trembling.
Katon frowned. "What is it?" he asked, puzzled.