SINS OF SILENCE

CHAPTER 9

"You are a work in progress, and that is something to be loved and celebrated." - Unknown

Fabiano David POV

As Dad asked the little nymph to take a bath, she reluctantly agreed, but I couldn't help but notice that she seemed to be having a hard time walking. Her steps were hesitant and unsteady, almost as if she were in pain. 

I also noticed that she flinched whenever someone shouted or when there were loud noises around her.

Deep down, I had a nagging feeling that she was hiding something from us. Perhaps there was a secret she was guarding, and it was causing her distress. 

I decided to wait until Dad and the little nymph were done with their bath before delving deeper into the matter. 

I wanted to give her some time to relax and feel comfortable before broaching the subject. I knew that bombarding her with questions right away might only add to her unease.

As I noticed Alessandro and Adriano getting up from their seats and making their way towards the stairs, a hint of suspicion crept into my voice as I asked, "Where are you two going?" My tone was cold, betraying my concern for the little nymph.

Adriano, always full of energy, turned towards me with an air of excitement. "We're going to see Isla," he replied, his voice laced with enthusiasm. 

"We want to show her something funny on my phone that we think she'll really enjoy!"

His explanation was delivered with such genuine delight that my initial skepticism began to soften. It seemed that their intention was innocent enough, wanting to bring some joy to the little nymph. 

However, as I watched them make their way towards the stairs, my uneasiness about Isla's current state lingered, and I couldn't shake the feeling that something deeper was troubling her.

Isla, my delicate little nymph with a radiant spirit, had been a constant source of enchantment and happiness for all of us. Her infectious laughter and boundless curiosity brightened even the gloomiest of days. 

As I sat in my office, surrounded by stacks of unfinished work, I immersed myself in the task at hand. With pen in hand, I signed each paper diligently, trying to regain a sense of order amidst the chaos that had infiltrated our usually tranquil abode. 

Suddenly, a knock on my door interrupted my concentration, causing me to look up from my desk. "Come in," I responded, expecting another interruption to my solitary work session. 

As Elio entered the room, a sense of anticipation mingled with worry filled the air. Elio, known for his nurturing nature and role as the mother hen in our household, had a knack for sensing when something was amiss. The concern in his eyes was unmistakable, and I knew that whatever he had to say involved Belle, another member of our close-knit community.

"What is it?" I asked, my curiosity piqued but also bracing myself for what might follow. It seemed that my intuition had not led me astray, and the conversation was about to delve into a realm of uncertainties and challenges.

Elio took a deep breath, his gaze never leaving mine. "It's about Belle," he began, his voice tinged with a mixture of worry and compassion. "I've noticed some changes in her lately, and I'm growing increasingly concerned about her well-being."

My heart sank at his words. Belle, a spirited and vivacious individual, had always been a source of light within our close community. Her laughter was contagious, and her vibrant personality uplifted everyone around her. To hear that she was going through a difficult time weighed heavily on my soul.