You replaced me

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE

Alessandro's POV:

F*ck I messed up. F*ck, f*ck, f*ck! Of course he'd find a way to charm her. Of course, the little brat would like him. Of course, she'd be happy. Why would I think otherwise? It's Ezra, Ezra f*cking Rossi. He probably reads her bedtime stories.

I quickly clicked off his page, I couldn't stand looking at it any longer. Pumpkins. They were carving f*cking pumpkins, and she looked as happy go lucky as could be. Who likes pumpkins? A dirty rotten pumpkin was all it took for her to laugh and smile? A f*cking pumpkin? I could have bought her a million of pumpkins.

It wasn't a punishment; it was a slap in the face.

I haven't seen or heard from the little brat in three months. Three excruciatingly long, painful months. Not a single letter ever turned up. Not one. Not her begging me to come get her, not an apology, not even a check in. This is what I get? This is what I deserve?

I angerly shook my head and reached for a new can of beer on my nightstand. I cracked it open and quickly took a drink.

I sent her off to my brother so, the Russians wouldn't be able to find her. To protect her but also punish her. I thought for some stupid reason, she'd hate it. He isn't rich by any means, h*ll he's just an ex-military man. She could get a taste of life without ease; without all the luxury I've given her. Ezra was always cold and callous around me. A 'strict military guy' seemed like the perfect punishment. Perhaps he could knock some sense into her, teach her a lesson or two. Then maybe I wouldn't seem like the bad guy.

I finished the can before crushing it with my hand and tossing it aside.

Ezra Russo. I've always envied my brother. He had everything. Everything I seeked out. Everything I wanted. Everything I always tried to be. He was funny, kind, charming, polite, strong. He knew how to make people laugh and smile. He knew how to talk to people. He knew how to deal with his emotions. His feelings. He was mom's favorite by far and got every girl I wanted, h*ll I'd come home, and he'd be hanging out with my own girlfriend. Including Kinsley. Kinsley was never just mine or just his, but she was meant to be mine. I found her first, I talked to her first, I fell in love with her first. He stole everything I had and now he has Chiara, too. He's got her wrapped around his finger.

Kinsley. Kinsley was everything, to me and to him. She was beautiful, jaw droppingly beautiful. I couldn't even describe her if I wanted too, she was perfect, there were no words good enough to describe her. Neither of us ever deserved her. I didn't even think love was possible until I met her. She was like a breath of fresh air. She just had this spark about her that pulled both me and my brother in. Mom even loved her. The only one she actually liked. Kinsley made us laugh through anything, but she also tore me and my brother apart.

I've always just been, 'Ezra's brother.' He's always just been seen as better and stronger.

I should've ended him, ended him the day I caught him with her. Then none of this mess would have ever occurred.

I shut my laptop off and put it to the side, my room filled with darkness. The only source of light, now gone.

I ran a hand through my hair. He begged me to let him see her, and I gave in. The only thing my brother didn't have and now he does.

As much as I'd hate to admit it, I do slightly miss Chiara. At least she brought some form of interest to my day, even if it was bad and annoying.

I groggily stood up and went over to my wardrobe, before doing so I flicked on the light. I picked out a clean-tailored suit and some socks.

I ran a hand over my stubble before getting dressed. I should shave.

Whatever, it was too late for that now. I knew what was needed to be done. I quickly draped a blanket over my bed in a lazy attempt to make it, and I pulled out my briefcase. I packed some important papers and finished by placing my laptop and chargers inside. I pulled out my phone and dialed a few workers.