SINS OF SILENCE

CHAPTER 8

"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do." - Brené Brown

Isla Isabelle POV

As Mister opened the door, I peeked inside and saw a big, scary man passionately arguing about something with someone on the couch. The intensity of their voices made me feel a little nervous, but I couldn't help but giggle when Mister cleared his throat to get their attention. It sounded funny to me, like a comical attempt to interrupt their heated discussion.

Suddenly, the big, scary man's attention turned towards us, and his face displayed a mixture of confusion and shock. I wondered why he was looking at us like that. Was it because I had something on my face or because I was covered in dirt? It made me self-conscious, and I instinctively sought shelter behind Mister's legs.

Mister's legs seemed like a safe haven, tall and sturdy, providing a shield between me and the intimidating scene unfolding before us. I clung to them, hoping to blend into the background and avoid drawing any further attention.

Mister's voice cut through the tension, trying to explain the situation to the big, scary man and the other guy. He said something about me being Isla Isabelle, their sister, but I couldn't comprehend what he meant. Confusion filled the room as the big guy responded with disbelief, his words laced with an intimidating tone.

"What sister? What do you mean?" The big guy's harsh words sent shivers down my spine, making me retreat further into the safety of Mister's legs.

Suddenly, the other guy, with his brown hair and handsome appearance, chimed in with a comment that was meant to lighten the atmosphere but only added to my unease. "You must have kidnapped her somewhere because of her cuteness," he exclaimed, his voice loud and boisterous.

Their loud voices and the tense exchange frightened me even more, causing me to bury myself deeper within the security of Mister's legs

As the ma'am name mentioned, the atmosphere grew even scarier. Mister asserted his authority, instructing the boys to introduce themselves. He gently pushed me forward, positioning me in front of him so I could see them clearly.

The man with the cute smile took my hand and introduced himself, "Hi, piccolo fiore, my name is Adriano Lucas Caruso. I'm 20 years old, your fifth older brother." His warm demeanor put me at ease, even amidst the tense situation.

The guy who resembled Adriano, presumably his twin, introduced himself next, "My little bee, I'm Allesandro Emilio Caruso. I'm also 20 years old, your fourth older brother, and we are twins." Their striking similarity confused me, and I turned to Mister for an explanation.

As I replied with a faux-mad expression, "Me no bee!" Their reaction surprised me, as instead of taking offense or dismissing my response, they all cooed at me. It was as if they found my mock anger endearing, and their collective response dissolved any lingering tension in the room.

"M-mister, w-why do t-they l-look alike?" I asked, seeking clarity.

"Because, vita mia, they are twins, and twins often look very similar," Mister calmly explained, his soothing voice helping me understand.

Suddenly, the man with the cute dimples and curly hair made an amusing remark, "Oh my god, have you seen that! Dad speaking in a calm and sweet tone. Am I dreaming, or did aliens abduct Dad and replace this man?" His words caused laughter to erupt in the room, and I couldn't help but smile at the light-hearted moment.

"Anyways, I'm Elio Giovani Caruso, your princely third older brother," he announced with a cheery voice that instantly brought a smile to my face. His joyful tone conveyed a sense of optimism and warmth, making it hard not to be captivated by his contagious enthusiasm.