Live A Little

Ch 20 : Birthday

Her dress ^^

Alora p.o.v

18.

Now, at the age of 18, I am considered an adult, old enough to live independently. I could leave this house now, continue with the plan I had when I first arrived here. Yet, the mere thought of leaving is breaking my heart. The worst part is, I want to stay here, even though my childhood experiences taught me that I am not worth anything. So, why do I feel I am worthy of living with them now? They are so talented, cool, and smart, and then theres me. Pathetic!

Can I really trust them? Is this all just an act? Are they lying to me? Are they

The sound of my door opening interrupts my thoughts, causing me to freeze in fear. Shhhh, Brunos voice instantly calms me down. I squint my eyes, trying to see him through the pitch darkness.

Stop stepping on my foot, I hear another whisper, perhaps Luca?

I tilt my head, trying not to smile, but then the lights suddenly turn on, and I see Bruno jump onto the bed, narrowly missing my legs, which causes him to fall back. Sitting on the bed with wide eyes and an open mouth, I stare at my family, who stares back at me.

Why are you awake at 12 in the morning, Alora? Thats bad for your health, Dad says, pretending to look serious, but the smile on his face gives him away.

WHY! Why, Alora. Why! Bruno gasps dramatically, lying down on the floor, which makes me chuckle. My eyes catch sight of the cake Vincenzo is holding, instantly making my mouth water.

Its Sunday. Why are you awake? Luca questions with a soft smile.

Just thinking, I reply. Its true, I was thinking, but I could never tell them what I was thinking about.

Well, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LITTLE SISTER! Bruno yells, sitting up, making me wince, but a smile still finds its way onto my face.

Thank you, I whisper softly as he gets up from the floor and wraps his arms around me. I latch onto him, soaking in his brotherly embrace. Everyone starts hugging me and repeating happy birthday. Finally, Dad comes towards me and hugs me. I close my eyes, feeling the comfort in his warm and protective hug. I feel as if no one could hurt me here. I tighten my arms around him as he places a soft kiss on my forehead, silently telling me that Im safe. It feels as if my heart will burst with the amount of happiness I am feeling.

Breakfast? Luca grins.

I nod as they all walk out, giving me time to get ready. By the time I reach the kitchen, a smile creeps its way onto my face. My face is going to start hurting from smiling this much.

I made your favorites, of course, as your FAVORITE brother, I would do anything, Luca states, emphasizing the word favorite. I watch as all of my brothers fight each other and make comments on Lucas statement. A hand is placed on my hand, making me look at my dad, who simply just smiles.

I love you, my sweet girl. My babys turning 18, Dad whispers with slightly teary eyes. My eyes become blurry, and my lips quiver. Nibbling on my bottom lip to stop myself from crying, I look around the table at my family. Family. The only thing I yearned for, the only wish I cried for, and now I have that very unexpectedly. I have my family.

Alora, turning around, I am faced with Marco. I look up at him in question, waiting for any rude remarks he might make. But he doesnt.

Could we talk? He asks, and I nod hesitantly.

Maybe somewhere else? He offers. I look at Dad, who just gives me a soft smile. I am 18 now. I could make my own decisions. I can say no But I couldnt, and I find myself nodding as Marco leads me towards his car. Sitting inside, a wave of regret hits me. He hates me, and I am alone with him But hes my brother, he would never Right?