Locked Hearts

Chapter Twenty Four

-I don't really know italian so please excuse any mistakes I make:)

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RAELYNN POV

"I can't believe this shit. I thought we were more careful, damn it." Danny complained from his seat. "Are you sure he knows?"

I stood looking out the window. Grace and Lena finally went to sleep twenty minutes ago. My body willed to fall apart at the weight on my shoulders but I never fell apart. I was trained and molded into someone who didn't waver.

"He knows."

"Damn it, Rae!" His hand landed harshly on the coffee table. "You should've sent her to your mother."

I whipped around in anger. "My mother is in a fucking wheelchair and my brother had aspergers. I wasn't about to add the responsibility of someone else on her. I just wanted to help Lena and I couldn't leave her sleeping in her car. I thought we had more time." I whisper yelled. "Don't you fucking dare."

He rubbed a hand down his face. "You're right, I'm sorry. Now what? And what about Grace?"

At the mention of Grace, my mood drastically changed from anger to sorrow. I saw the look in her eyes tonight, there was no chance for us. Only an idiot would believe she would accept any of this. Not to mention, I technically lied to her. She didn't need anyone else betraying her trust and I did just that.

"I don't know."

●●●

The vast area of land came into view, our house sat big and proud in the center. The entire property was fenced with security at every entrance and exit. The pathway that led to the house seemed to never end, the name Romano sat on top of the gate. I drove through the big iron gate when it opened, stopping when the head guard stopped me.

They knew it was me but I gave strict instructions to always double check. Lena had gotten a little talkative on the way here and I felt some relief from that. Grace however refused to even look at me, that hurt more than I'd ever admit. Danny was getting Clay out of the city, then making some arrangements before meeting us here later on.

"Everyone step out." He instructed.

Again, one of my instructions. I couldn't risk anything when it came to my family. They searched each of us with the metal detector and then they checked the car. My eyes moved to Grace as we waited, she was frowning with her eyes glued to her feet.

"Good to go."

"Anyone scheduled to be here today?" I asked before driving off.

"No boss."

I nodded and proceeded to the house.

"How fucking rich are you exactly?" Lena muttered in awe.

"A little advice kid, watch the language in front of my mom. She doesn't care if you're not hers, she will throw something at you." I winked and got out.

With the two of them following, I entered the house and led them to the living room. Mom was sitting on the couch reading a book, her wheelchair beside her.

"Mamma sono qui." I said softly. {Mom I'm here}

She looked up with a big smile. "Il mio bambina" She opened her arms.

I bent enough to wrap her in my arms. "Mom, this Lena," I gestured to her with my hand. "And that's Grace." I couldn't help the butterflies I felt when we locked eyes.