Two days had passed since Antonio left the hospital, and I can assure you he was recovering quickly enough. However, I started experiencing nightmares once more after seeing my father's picture. When Louis had me go to a therapist a few years ago, the nightmares ended. But now, it's like I'm back to square one. Those nightmares have a way of messing with my head, making me question my sanity. I find myself tossing and turning, drenched in sweat, unable to escape the clutches of fear and darkness. It's like a constant battle, trying to regain control over my own mind. My mind jolted out of its reverie when, out of nowhere, As the photographer captured snapshots of our unity, I overheard a hushed exchange between Victor and Daniel, my heart quickening at their words.

"Do you think she'll ever let us in?" Daniel's voice held a mixture of earnestness and vulnerability beneath his tough exterior. really? why can't they leave me alone?

Victor's gaze remained fixed on me, his eyes a mosaic of emotions. "Daniel, she is our only sister. We just need to give her time."

Dante and Enzo exchanged knowing glances nearby. Enzo's voice carried a touch of understanding. "I am sure we will be like a normal family again, even if she doesn't want anything to do with us now we will surely change her mind."

Antonio suddenly approached me with a tentative smile. "Isabella, you've been distant. It's good to finally see you."

A playful light flickered in my eyes. "Distant? Antonio, you make it sound so dramatic."

Antonio chuckled. "You've always had a way with words, amore. Remember, we have a surprise for you at dinner."

As evening settled and our family gathered around the dinner table, the room buzzed with quiet conversations and shared glances. grandpa cleared his throat, his eyes never leaving mine. "Isabella, we recognize your distance. But we want you to know something - our bonds extend far beyond what you might perceive." what??

Puzzlement etched my features as I exchanged curious glances with Enzo, Gio, and Armando who were frowning. Victor's voice held a steady resolve. "We've all been part of something greater, something that demands loyalty above all else." were they talking about the mafia?

Leo's words were soft yet firm. "we're here to protect you, to stand by you no matter what. you don't need to hide anything from us ever." I feel like crying. why the hell am I getting so emotional?

My gaze flitted between family members, my defences wavering. "What are you all trying to tell me? That there's more to our family than meets the eye?" they are the family I always wished for but the very family that can lead me to my death.

Maximo's tone held a surprising tenderness. "Isabella now is not the time but you will understand soon." How can I tell you all that I am an assassin and that too black rose?

Romeo, who had remained silent, finally spoke, his voice sincere. "Isabella, we love you. We're willing to go to great lengths to ensure your safety and remind you that you're never alone." Tears pooled in my eyes as the walls around my heart began to crumble. A sense of belonging, stronger than any I had felt before, surged within me. But with my past experiences, I knew that I didn't deserve love or family.

"we are aware Bella that you don't care about all of this but we care about you a lot, trust me" Daniel spoke.

Niccolo approached me, his presence commanding yet comforting. "Isabella," he began, his voice steady, "these moments together have been precious. I never thought we'd all be under the same roof again. I know that you never wanted to meet us but we are your family whether you accept it or not" why are my emotions such a mess now god?

He placed a hand on her shoulder, his touch is both reassuring and gentle. "Isabella, remember that even if you dint consider yourself our sister we do." he gave me a faint smile before turning to Victor and Leo.

I stood before my grandparents, discomfort evident in my stiff posture.

"Isabella, dear," her grandmother's voice was gentle, "it's been a while since we've all been together."

My gaze shifted, m unease palpable. "Yeah, it has."

grandpa's warm smile contrasted with his normally guarded demeanour. "We've missed having you around."

"Well, I'm here now."

Grandma's eyes softened, understanding the tension. "Isabella, no matter how distant you feel, our love for you remains."I don't know whether I should resent that bitch of a mother for taking me away or I should long to spend time with m family.

uncle Lorenzo's hearty laugh seemed out of place with my reserved attitude. "Isabella, you've always been a puzzle."

Leander's gaze held a hint of concern. "We hope you're doing well, Isabella."

my response was curt. "I'm fine, thanks uncle"

"we will miss you" aunt luna and aunt sofia abruptly hugged me. I slightly smile as I would actually miss them they were so sweet just like the mother I never had.

"Aunty even me" For the first time I actually smiled before Edward jumped into my arms startling me."Isabella!" Edward's voice was filled with excitement as he reached me, his eyes sparkling with genuine affection.

I managed a small smile, my guard momentarily lowering in the presence of my innocent brother. "Hey there, Edward."

Edward hopped onto the bench beside me, swinging his legs back and forth. "I've been looking for you everywhere! What are you doing here?"

" talking to our big bros," I said looking at Daniel and Dante who wanted to talk to me before leaving.

"don't be sad we will meet each other again sissy" he promised

My gaze softened as I looked at my young brother, his innocence a stark reminder of the purity that still existed within our tumultuous world. I tousled his hair affectionately. "You're a wise little man, you know that?"

Edward beamed, his smile lighting up his face. "I'm gonna make you smile, Isabella, just wait!"

ye you will" Victor said approaching me and taking Edward from my arms and playing with him affectionately. I never got time to talk to my other brothers after the arrival of the rest of our family and then Antonio getting shot and now them leaving.

I found myself facing Daniel, my expression guarded as I stood before him.

"Brother," I greeted curtly, my voice lacking warmth.

Daniel's eyes held a mixture of understanding and concern. "Isabella, it's going to be a while before we meet again"

My response was cool. "Yeah, it's better that way"

Daniel's gaze softened. "you should know that you're still a part of this family if there is anything you want to tell me now is the best time"

My demeanour altered for a brief moment before I lied very convincingly" Thanks, Daniel but I am not hiding anything"

Daniel stared at me deeply for a moment before nodding at me and walking away

"Dante," I acknowledged with a nod, my tone clipped.

Dante's warm smile contrasted with my aloofness. "Isabella, it's good to have you back."

My response was cautious. "I guess so."

Dante's eyes held a hint of playfulness. "Enzo and Armando are going to trouble the hell out of you and Victor just wait"

My lips quirked in a faint smile. "I know."Dante quickly hugged me and approached Maximo.

In approximately an hour, everyone was prepared to depart after saying their goodbyes. Grandpa warned us all, "You better behave or my dear grandson will go mad soon," causing Victor to protest. Even I, found myself grinning. "we will meet each other again for business don't be so sad bro," Antonio said laughing at Leo who seemed unhappy.

The twins embraced Uncle Leo and Lorenzo, while Aunt Sofia was busy advising Enzo and Armando to not annoy Victor, while Victor hugged Dante and Niccolo and Leo hugged our grandparents. I simply continued looking at Daniel, whose eyes were fixed on me.

"come children" Grandma said smiling at us and we waited until all o them left one by one. We returned inside as soon as they had all departed.

don't be sad they will be back in a month for business" Enzo said scoffing earning himself a hit on the back from Maximo who in turn pulled his hair.

"Really?" Leo asked tiredly.

"Not now you both," Victor said shaking his head before going upstairs with Leo behind him. The one benefit of having brothers is daily access to free drama." Gio gets some snacks" I said smirking. I lounged on a luxurious sofa nearby, one leg casually draped over the armrest. I leaned back, a devilish grin on my face as I sipped from a glass of sparkling water. Gio reclined on a nearby chair, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he munched on a handful of popcorn.

Romeo, perched on the edge of the coffee table, acted as the unofficial referee, his voice infused with a mix of excitement and theatrical commentary. "And Maximo delivers a powerful jab! But Eno counters with a slick dodge!"

I raised an eyebrow, my lips curling into a smirk. "I hope you two realize you're one dramatic monologue away from being cast in an action movie."

Maximo and Eno, still grappling, exchanged amused glances before bursting into laughter. Eno managed to pin Maximo to the ground, raising his arms in a mock victory pose.

"Looks like I win this round," Eno declared, a triumphant grin on his face.

Maximo chuckled, playfully pushing Eno off him. "Don't get too cocky, little brother."

Gio leaned forward, offering me a handful of popcorn. "Want some?"

I plucked a few pieces from the offered handful and popped them into my mouth. I glanced at Gio, a knowing glint in my eyes. "So, what's the over-under on how long before they break something valuable?"

Gio chuckled, shaking his head. "Knowing these two, I'd say we're looking at five minutes, tops."

Romeo chimed in, his tone melodramatic. "Ah, the eternal struggle of sibling rivalry. Will they ever learn?"

As Maximo and Eno resumed their mock battle, rolling across the floor with exaggerated grunts and dramatic manoeuvres,

Romeo glanced between me and Gio, a playful grin tugging at his lips. "Hey, who's up for a round of truth or dare after this?"

I arched an eyebrow, my lips curling into a sly smile. "Oh, I'm definitely in. But only if I get to ask the first question."

Gio chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "I have a feeling this is going to be interesting."

"Hey no"

"Get off me you jerk"

"Oh god, this to funny" Gio said laughing and well I couldn't deny it.

Just as we were about to stop the playful wrestling match a very angry Victor came in His presence was commanding, and the room fell into a sudden hush.

Victor's stern gaze swept across the scene, his expression a mix of disbelief and disapproval. "What on earth is going on here?"

Maximo and Eno immediately disentangled themselves, their playful antics fading as they straightened their clothing and adopted more composed postures.

Romeo, undeterred by Victor's stern demeanour, smirked and raised his arms dramatically. "Fear not, dear Victor, for we were merely engaged in a display of fraternal prowess."

Gio couldn't hold back a chuckle, and I covered my mouth to stifle a laugh, exchanging amused glances with him.

Victor's brow furrowed as he surveyed the room, his gaze settling on the three of us. "Is this how you choose to spend your time? Behaving like unruly children?"

I sat up, my amusement giving way to a more composed demeanour. "Apologies, Victor. We were merely enjoying a moment of levity."

Gio nodded in agreement. "Indeed. It's good for the soul."

Victor's stern facade softened slightly, a hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He sighed, shaking his head. "Very well. But I expect more decorum in the future."

As Victor turned to leave the room, Maximo and Eno exchanged knowing glances, their playful rivalry was briefly forgotten as they shared a moment of silent understanding.

Gio and I exchanged a glance, silently communicating our plan. With a quick nod, I rose from the sofa and approached Victor. "Victor, wait."

He turned to face me, his expression still stern but curious now. "What is it, Isabella?"

"Why don't you join us? As you said before you hardly spend time with us.

Gio stepped forward, his voice echoing my sentiment. "We were just planning a game of truth or dare, a chance to share laughs and stories."

Romeo added with a grin, "And it's the perfect opportunity to get to know each other better."

Victor's gaze softened, his sternness giving way to contemplation. He glanced at Maximo and Eno, who was watching the exchange with genuine interest. After a moment of consideration, he let out a resigned sigh.

"Very well," Victor conceded, "It's not that I don't want to spend time with you it's just that work can't be left pending." couldn't help but smile, a sense of accomplishment washing over me.

"All right, everyone," Romeo announced, his voice theatrical. "Welcome to the Sibling Truth or Dare Extravaganza!"

Laughter and good-natured teasing rippled through the group. Maximo and Eno exchanged knowing grins, while Gio leaned back, a playful smirk tugging at his lips and Victor simply frowned.

I sat slightly apart from the others, my expression composed and aloof. Though I was participating, a hint of distance remained in my demeanour, a reminder of my dual identities.

Romeo cleared his throat dramatically. "As the esteemed game master, I'll go first. Gio, truth or dare?"

Gio's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Let's start with a dare."

"Sing something for our sister" Maximo suggested.

Gio chuckled and glanced at me, a playful glint in his eyes. He took a deep breath and began to sing, his voice surprisingly soulful and smooth. The lyrics filled the air, a melodious declaration of affection and playful adoration.

I met Gio's gaze with a raised eyebrow, my cold facade momentarily cracking as I fought back a smirk. His performance was unexpected, and despite my best efforts, a hint of amusement flickered in my eyes.

As the last note faded, the room erupted in applause and laughter. Even I couldn't help but join in the applause, a small smile tugging at the corner of my lips.

The game progressed, and the dares grew progressively more daring. Eventually, the spotlight turned to me.

"Isa, truth or dare?" Romeo inquired, his grin never faltering.

My gaze remained steady, my determination unwavering. "Dare."

Romeo's grin turned mischievous. "I dare you to reveal something you've never told anyone about your life before joining our family." Shit. A ripple of tension coursed through me. what to do now?

I immediately said, "No wait truth is better," hoping they don't pursue it.



Victor's piercing gaze bore into mine, his voice measured. "Is there anything about your past that you haven't shared with us?" I blinked, caught off guard by the directness of his question.



I maintained a composed exterior, my mind racing to formulate a response that would deflect suspicion. "There are always aspects of one's past that remain private," I replied, my voice steady. "Some memories are best left untouched."



Victor's eyes narrowed slightly, his stare unwavering. "Is that so? It seems there's more to your story than you're willing to reveal."



A chill settled over the room as Victor's words hung in the air. His aura of authority and suspicion sent a ripple of tension through everyone even me.



Victor's expression hardened slightly, his suspicion not fully abated. "Indeed. Just remember, Isabella, that trust is the base for a family."



"Have you explained everything to me? I hope you have never lied to me" I asked because I knew Victor wouldn't let this topic go on.



Victor's lips curved into a semblance of a smile, though it held a distinct edge." What do you think amore?" It was as if Victor's eyes held an uncanny ability to see through my carefully constructed façade, to unravel the intricacies of my past and present. A part of me, the part that had always been cautious and calculating, recognized the danger of the situation.



"I suggest we tread carefully. secrets always have a way of surfacing. Even if the truth is ultimately bitter, you must repeatedly consume it to live a life of happiness.



Romeo attempted to lighten the atmosphere with a forced chuckle. "Come on, guys, it's just a game."



Gio leaned forward with a light-hearted grin. "Come on, Victor, let's not turn this into an interrogation. We're just playing a game, remember?"



Maximo chimed in, his tone doubtful. "Yeah, Victor, don't go all serious oner. We're here to have fun!"



Leo suddenly entered the room and after exchanging glances with Victor he joined in with a chuckle. "Absolutely. Let's keep the mood light and enjoy the game." A faint smile tugged at the corners of Victor's lips, though his guarded expression remained. The tension seemed to ease ever so slightly.



Armando leapt to his feet and struck a dramatic pose. "Fear not, dear siblings! The game shall continue, and the shadows of suspicion shall be banished by the radiant light of our laughter!"



We couldn't help but laugh. It seemed he was never one to miss an opportunity for theatrics. Victor's stern facade cracked, and he shook his head with a soft chuckle.



"You lot are something else," he mused, his gaze momentarily softening as he gazed at us.



Enzo raised an eyebrow at Victor "Victor, you're looking awfully serious. Did you forget this was supposed to be a fun game?"



Victor simply smirked "Someone has to keep an eye on you troublemakers."



Enzo grinned "Oh, don't worry, we're well-behaved angels tonight. Otherwise, Mom would come back from Italy just to whoop our asses"



"Let's just continue" Leo sighed. couldn't blame him, he seemed to be the most sensible one here.

----------------------

the next chapter will come after a looooooong time. ❤️❤️❤️❤️