Four years ago...
I looked at the number that was shown on the screen. It took me a long time to get it. I've been sitting here for a few minutes now. Hesitating if it's a good idea to call. I shouldn't. I should leave her alone. She hates me, so why would she listen to me at all?
I have forgotten how her laughter sounds and what her smile looks like. It's been too long.
I risked it and called.
I put the cell phone to my ear and waited. She picked it up after a few beeps.
"Yes?" Her voice came from the other side. I froze. My mouth was open, but I didn't have time to speak to her. "Hello? Is anyone there?" In the background, I heard she was walking. "Is that you, Lily?" Who is Lily? "Okay, it's not funny." She laughed softly. "Okay, I'll hang up." She was already slightly annoyed. I missed that too.
I missed her whole. Each her mood and tone. Her sarcasm and silly remarks. Her presence. I missed waking up next to her and falling asleep with her. Feeling safe.
"I ..." I started, but on the other hand there was silence. The call ended before she could even hear me.
I have to let her go. She deserves better. Better than me.
Now...
"
Here's my favorite niece." I opened my arms, and a small creature flew into them. I hugged her tightly and lifted her to my arms. She wrapped her small handles around my neck and plunged her head into my chest.
"Checco!" She squealed with joy. When she didn't know the words yet, it was easier for her to call me Checco than Francesco. Over time, it didn't bother me anymore. To whom I lie, it has grown to my heart.
"Did you get taller by any chance?" I pulled away from her, but while I was still holding her. I looked at her. "You definitely did." I tickled her with my other hand, and she laughed.
I brushed strands of hair from her face. I ran my finger over her red cheek.
"Did you fall again?" She nodded embarrassed. "It's okay." I calmed her down and hugged her again. "It will heal."
"Francesco." I shifted my gaze to my mother standing in the door leading to the living room. "What are you doing here? I thought you weren't coming back from Florence until the holidays." She came to me and gave me a quick kiss on the cheek.
If I didn't have a little Em on my hands, she would suffocate me for not telling her.
"I wanted to spend some time with Em. Is it that bad?" I laughed.
"Of course not." She held out her hand to Em so she could take her from me, but I took a step back.
"No. You had time to enjoy your granddaughter. It's time for me." I frowned.
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Enemies at first sight (ENG) ✔️
RomansaENGLISH VERSION! "You wouldn't shoot me." "And why is that? Because I'm a woman?" I raised an eyebrow. "Exactly, you..." Before he could finish the sentence, my finger press the trigger and the bullet flew out of the guns head. It hit him in the s...