Little Aria

7

When I first moved in with my Papi I was so fragile and weak. My family always tells me how strong I am for surviving.

But I don't see how that could be possible.

Anytime I'd say even the slightest thing it would always lead to me getting beaten and begging for mercy.

Those days will never be erased. Even if I tried and trust me. I've tried.

"Just admit it! You did cheat." Nathan said

"No!" Nolan said, getting irritated.

"You got a perfect score, there's just no way!?"

"I've played this plenty of times before."

I huff at these annoying boys who have been arguing for an hour straight just because of this game. They called it COD, which reminded me of the game Alexei plays which is called 'call of duty' or something like that.

"I'm going to get some juice." I didn't spare a glance as I got up and walked out the door, my mind was racing with thoughts that I wanted to keep to myself.

I would like to call Papi but I've already been making this difficult for him. I don't want him to be annoyed by me so I'll call Vincento. He always knows what to say to make me feel better. 

As I was about to retreat to my room Gabriel called me over.

"Aria, sweetheart, come to my office with me please."

I simply nodded, what's the point in arguing, I'm too tired.

I step inside the office and to my somewhat surprise, my biological grandfather, uncles, and older cousins are in here, along with Massimo and Damien. Marcelo is in a business meeting so obviously he is not present.

"Take a seat, Aria." Gabriel said, and I obliged to the order.

I just want to get this over with so I can go upstairs and take a nap before I crumble to the ground.

"I know I said when you first got here that we would go over the rules of the house, but I got sucked into work, so we're doing it now." He said once getting settled into his office chair behind the desk.

"Okay..." I said.

"The first and most important rule is, never go anywhere with out informing one of your brothers, or guard. This one is no negotiable."

"So I have to ask to go to the restroom." I arch a brow, obviously teasing the man.old man.

He lets out a little chuckle, "No, Aria, you're a very smart girl to know what I mean."

"Anyway. The next rule is that you keep up your good grades. If you ever need help and want a tutor or want some help from me or your brothers then let us know."

"Okay... I have always understood school perfectly but I'll let you know I guess."

He nods, "The last rule is you don't ever step foot on the 3rd floor. It's just business and there's constantly people roaming around."

I'm not as naive as he thinks I am!

"Okay."

"Okay? Do you have any questions?" Massimo asked me with an arched brow.

I think for a moment and then ask, "yeah! I was thinking, can I get a bunny!?"

"I'll think about it, sweetie." I try my best to keep my disappointment hidden, so I force a small smile.

"Can I leave now?"

"You may." Gabriel said.

                           •

"So do you think I'll get one?" I ask Dante on the phone.

"Honestly I think if you bring out those killer puppy dog eyes you'll be granted anything."

I laugh, "I doubt it."

"Seriously! Those eyes should be illegal."

I was about to respond but my room door flew open, only to reveal Xander, Tristan, and Levi.

"What do you want?" I asked, sitting up on my knees from laying on my stomach, already annoyed that they just barged in without warning.

"Who are you talking to?"

"My friend." I stated, narrowing my eyes.

"What friend?" This time it was Tristan who asked- well more like demanded.

"Nobody you know of."

"Quit the shit. Who. Is. It." Xander's demanding voice sends goosebumps on my tanned skin.

"My best friend, Dante. Happy?"

"A boy!?" Lexi then said dramatically.

"Uhh... Hi" Dante said.

"Hang up." Xander said sternly.

"No."

Tristan walks up to me and snatches my phone from my bed and hangs up.

"Hey!" I yelled.

"No. Boys."

"I just met you, Tristan, you can't tell me what to do."

"Don't care."

"Give me my phone, you bonehead!"

"Hey what's going on?" Gabriel said, walking into my room with Massimo behind him.

"Dad, she was talking to a boy!" Xander hissed.

"I was talking to my best friend! I've known him almost my whole life, you stupid head."

"Hey, no name calling. And really guys?" Massimo said.

This whole bickering went on for 10 more minutes before finally getting my phone and everyone leaving my room.

                 Xander's POV

I can't believe dad and Massimo didn't take my side! What the hell?

She was talking to a boy.

A BOY!

I know I'm not the best a handling situations like this but still she should have listened.

"Xander, you need to knock it off." Dad said.

"But dad she was talking to a boy."

"We both know this is more than your sister talking to a boy."

"What? Y- yes it is."

He arched an eyebrow.

Dad sighed, walking towards me and sitting next to me on my bed, "I know you've missed her more than you'll probably ever admit, but that does not mean you get to take that anger and sadness out on her. She's struggling too. We all see it.."

"I- Dad I can't."

"I know, son. You take your time."

I can't let her see how much of a monster I am.

_____
Sorry for the long update I've been pretty busy🥲