Valentina Rossetti

Chapter 06

I woke up to sun rays streaming through the blinds. I lay in bed for a few moments, recalling the events from yesterday. With a sigh, I got up and made my way to the bathroom. After showering and doing my morning skincare routine, I walked to the walk-in closet to choose an outfit for the day. After a while, I was dressed in a black button-front dress that reached mid-thigh, with puffy sleeves. I paired it with black ankle-length heeled boots and gold hoop earrings. For my makeup, I opted for a natural look and left my hair in its natural state. To finish off my look, I spritzed some perfume, grabbed my bag and phone, and ensured I had all my essentials in the bag.

After getting ready, I left the room and headed to the dining hall. The hallway I stayed in is on the opposite side from the family's rooms, so no one knew I spent the night here. Or maybe they did. Who am I kidding? They're the Italian mafia; of course, they knew. Nothing escapes their notice. I wonder if they knew what happened that night, where I had been, or what I went through these past six years. If they knew and deliberately left me alone while prioritizing that bitch, my blood boiled with rage on such thoughts. If that's the case, they'll regret it for the rest of their lives.

I forced myself to stay calm and continued towards the dining hall. Upon reaching the entrance, I paused to collect my thoughts. After soothing my racing heart and mind, I took a deep breath and stepped inside. There was no turning back now. As soon as I entered, everyone's eyes snapped to me. The room fell silent as they all stared. My heart began to race under their scrutiny, yet I kept a calm demeanor. As I walked to the open seat at the far end of the table, I casually noted the seating arrangement.

Luciano

Eleanor      Christina

Lorenzo      Leonardo

Elijah     Alexa

Spare chair
(The seating arrangement)

I fought back a grimace when I saw Christina sitting next to Luciano, my dear father. I could almost feel my blood boiling, but I kept my composure and took the seat opposite Luciano. I sensed everyone's eyes on me but chose to ignore them, focusing instead on the lavish breakfast spread on the table. I smirked. Before I could speak, Christina cut in,

“You fucking bitch, what the fuck are you doing here?”

I leisurely made myself a plate consisting of pancakes, whipped cream and some cut up strawberries. I took a bite of my breakfast and replied in an even tone, while looking in Christina’s eyes,

“Good morning to you too, Christina. And to answer that stupid question of your, this is my house, where else am I supposed to be?”

I discreetly glanced around the table, noticing everyone watching our exchange in silence, likely debating whether to intervene or whom to side with. I chuckled inwardly and continued my breakfast. Halfway through, Luciano Rossetti finally spoke up,

“Valentina, we are very happy to have you back with us.”  I looked up to see Christina and Elijah, glaring at me with their fists clenched. The others remained silent, simply observing. I then fixed my gaze on Luciano as he continued,

“I know it is late, but I am really sorry for what happened 6 years ago. I know my apology won't bring back all those times but I would like you to know how regretful I am. I shouldn't have done what I did. I know my decision was hasty and irrational, and I regret that very much. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.”

I was honestly speechless. I never expected it to go this way. I thought I'd be the one forced to apologize for something they imagined I did. Never did I think they'd be apologizing to me. Maybe they finally learned what really happened that night. But then, why is Christina still here? And why didn't they try to find me or reach out? My thoughts were interrupted when Eleanor decided to speak up.

"Your father is right, sweetheart. We're genuinely ashamed of our mistakes and sincerely hope you'll forgive us and let us make up for the lost time. However, you still need to apologize to Christina for everything that happened so that we can all forgive each other and move forward.”

Well, it seems I spoke too soon. Honestly, I'm not even surprised they haven't discovered the truth yet. How could they, with Christina always around to hide the evidence? She planned everything perfectly all those years ago, and I’m certain she’s plotting something big this time too. But what she doesn't realize is that I'm no longer the naive little girl who trusted her family more than anyone. Now, she’ll be facing a cold-hearted, vengeful person. This time, I won’t make it easy for her, and I won't let her succeed.

I was snapped out of my thoughts when Christina began her usual dramatic and pathetic act.

“What are you saying, Mom, Dad? How can you let her stay here after what she did back then? She was a teenager when she did something so horrible, and now she's an adult. Who knows what she's capable of? How can we let a murderer stay with us?”

I'm surprised I haven't burst into laughter yet, watching her shed crocodile tears and speak in a sorrowful voice. I don't know how they've put up with her. As I finished my breakfast, I decided it was time to put an end to this drama once and for all.

"I honestly don't know how you've put up with her all these years. To address your questions, I've listened to all your nonsense, but I won't be forgiving you for what you've done. You need to face the consequences of your actions. And let me make it clear: I'm not here to play happy family. I'm here to reclaim what's rightfully mine. So, save your worthless apologies. They can't make up for the loss I've endured.

And Christina, dear, you're living with criminals and murderers, so what's one more? Six years ago, I was naive and innocent, but not anymore. This time, I won't leave just because you want me to. This time, you'll have to face me, and it won't be easy. This is my house, my family. You're not a part of the Rossetti family. You may have forgotten that, but I'll be here to remind you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm running late. Have a nice day, everyone.”

I spoke it in an even voice and made sure to remind everyone that I'm not the same girl they once knew. I ended my little speech with a smile and left the table as I was getting late.

**********

Had some guests over so couldn't update yesterday. But here's the update.

Abeer