My name is Tara Harper.
Mafia princess.
Thrives in chaos.
Life of the party.
But there's a secret. A secret so ugly, that I hide.
His name is Alec Romano.
Loyal.
Lives in Violence.
Untouchable.
I want him. Will do anything to get him. Problem...
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The first thing I noticed as I drifted back to consciousness was the sterile smell of the hospital room, a stark reminder of where I was. My body felt heavy and weak, but I managed to open my eyes, blinking against the harsh overhead lights. My vision slowly adjusted, and I took in the sight of my surroundings—machines beeping softly, wires connected to my arms, and the rhythmic sound of someone snoring nearby.
I turned my head slightly, and there he was, my brother Lucian, sprawled out on the small couch next to my bed, snoring loudly. The sight brought a weak smile to my lips despite the pain. He looked so uncomfortable, yet so determined to be there for me. My heart swelled with affection for him, but I couldn't resist the urge to mess with him a little.
Spying a tray of food on the bedside table, I saw an apple within arm's reach. Slowly, I stretched out my hand, wincing slightly at the discomfort, and grabbed the apple. With as much strength as I could muster, I tossed it at him, aiming for his chest.
The apple hit its mark with a soft thud, and Lucian jolted awake, his eyes wide with confusion and irritation. He looked around wildly before his gaze landed on me, and his expression shifted from anger to utter relief in an instant.
"Tara!" he exclaimed, rushing to my side. "You're awake! Thank God!"
His face was a mixture of joy and concern as he reached for my hand, holding it gently. "How are you feeling? Do you need anything? Should I call the nurse?"
I couldn't help but chuckle weakly at his sudden burst of questions. "I'm fine, Lucian. Just... a bit sore."
He nodded, his relief palpable, but his eyes remained filled with worry. "You had us all scared to death," he said, his voice trembling slightly. "I've been here the whole time, waiting for you to wake up."
"I noticed," I replied, glancing at the couch he had been sleeping on. "You were snoring like a chainsaw."
He looked sheepish for a moment, then laughed, his usual confidence returning. "Well, I had to make sure you knew I was here, right?"
His laughter faded, and he became serious again, his eyes searching mine for any sign of lingering pain. "I'm so sorry, Tara. I should have protected you better. I failed you."
"Lucian, stop," I said softly, squeezing his hand. "This isn't your fault. You've always been there for me. I'm just glad you're here now."
He nodded, but I could see the guilt still lingering in his eyes. He was my big brother, my protector, and I knew that he carried the weight of what had happened as if it were his personal failure.
"I promise, Tara," he said, his voice filled with determination. "I won't let anything like this happen again. I'll keep you safe, no matter what."
I smiled weakly, touched by his resolve. "I know you will, Lucian. I trust you."
