THE LOST TWINS

18 - Enzo, I love you.

Alesa Romano
-----
(Edited)

I felt comforted in his arms-my big brother Xander's arms, who was often mean to me. But now, his warmth and protection enveloped me, chasing away the fear. I was grateful he arrived just in time.

"Thank you, Xander," I whispered, tears still streaming down my face.

He pulled me back, his eyes scanning mine.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft.

I nodded, still shaken.

I pulled out of the hug, and Xander gently lifted my chin.

Our eyes met, and I saw guilt, love, and concern etched on his face.

Was it for me?

"I'm so-rr-y, I t-ri-ed to sto-p hi-m, but he w-o-n't bu-dge," I stammered.

Xander's expression softened.

He pulled me into another hug.

"It's okay, it's not your fault," he whispered.

After a few minutes, he guided me to the washroom.

"Clean up and fix yourself. Everyone's waiting," he said gently.

I nodded and entered the washroom.

Fixing my hair and dress, I washed my face to erase the signs of crying.

As I exited, Xander waited, holding out his hand.

I took it, feeling a sense of security.

We walked back to the dining area, where our family awaited.

Before entering, I stopped Xander.

"Can you please not tell them?" I asked, hoping he'd agree.

Xander raised an eyebrow.

"I mean, not now. You can after we reach home," I clarified.

Xander nodded.

"It's your home too," he reminded me.

We entered, and I returned to my seat.

Dessert had arrived, and everyone was enjoying their treats.

I took small bites, feeling Xander's gaze on me throughout.

It was time to leave, and Xander announced the car arrangements.

To my surprise, I'd be riding with Lorenzo, Alex, and Xander-the most intimidating brothers. I couldn't handle one, let alone three.

Noah requested a long drive, but Lorenzo initially refused. Alexa intervened, convincing Lorenzo to agree. Xander knew I wasn't up for the long drive.

So, the four of us-Lorenzo, Alex, Xander, and I-headed home.

The car ride was quiet, with Alex and Lorenzo engrossed in their phones. Xander sat beside me, his presence reassuring. As we drove, I glanced at Xander, wondering about his earlier behavior.

Was he genuinely concerned about me? Or was it just a momentary lapse?

We arrived home, and I hastily exited the car, racing toward the door. Realizing it was locked, I waited for Lorenzo to unlock it. As they approached, they gave me a perplexed look.

I avoided eye contact, feeling embarrassed. Lorenzo opened the door, and I rushed inside. I yearned to retreat to my room, lay on my bed, and cry.

But Lorenzo halted me. "Stop, Alesa," he said firmly.

We gathered in the living room, with Alex beside me and Xander standing behind Lorenzo.

Their collective gaze felt suffocating.

"Now, tell me what happened there?" Lorenzo asked.

"Uhm, nothing much," I replied, unsure how to share.

Alex's expression darkened.

"You lie a lot," he snapped, making me flinch.

Lorenzo's eyes narrowed.

"Tell us what exactly happened," Alex pressed.

Tears streamed down my face.

"Can I please go to my room?" I pleaded with Lorenzo.

He nodded, and I fled.

I entered my room, leaving the door open. I collapsed onto my bed, burying my face in the pillow. Tears flowed uncontrollably.

I wanted this anguish to end.

Lorenzo Romano

After Alesa retreated to her room, I turned to Xander.

"Tell me what happened," I demanded.

Xander recounted the events, and Alex listened intently. I remained calm, but fury simmered beneath. How dare that man touch my sister?The youngest Romano. He would pay for his transgression.

After Xander finished, Alex exploded.

"That fucker!" Alex cursed.

I raised a hand, calming him.

The others arrived, and we fell silent. Alesa's cries carried through the living room.

Xavier asked, "What happened, Lorenzo?"

I nodded to Xander to explain. Dylan's eyes widened as he started cussing.

"Language, Dylan. Alexa's still here," I reminded.

"Sorry," Dylan apologized.

"Alexa, go to your room and sleep," I instructed. She nodded and left.

"How's Alesa now?" Colton asked, concern etched on his face.

"She was crying; I don't know," Alex replied.

The crying ceased, and I instructed everyone to retire. As we ascended the stairs, I noticed Alesa's door ajar. Her room was dimly lit. She lay on her stomach, hair covering her face.

I approached quietly. I tied her hair into a loose ponytail. I gently lifted her, adjusting her comfortably. Removed her shoes and covered her with a blanket.

I pecked her temple.

"Alesa?"

"Enzo, even you even want me to leave?" she mumbled.

"No, Alesa, I don't want you to leave. I love you," I reassured.

"I love you too, Enzo," she whispered.

I smiled, touched by her affection. Only Alesa called me Enzo. I left her room, deciding to uncover the truth.

Tomorrow, I'll talk to her.