Burning Ties

Chapter Nineteen

Only because he's popular lmao.

Carmine POV

It's a few hours after the mall incident when Iris finally remembers that Leandro was in fact shot.

I almost laugh as she shoots out of her seat, which is obviously right next to Leandro, and stands in front of him with her arms crossed.

"Yes, Leggero?" (light) He asks, looking at her weirdly.

"You got shot." She states simply, huffing when that doesn't seem to alarm him in any way.

"Did you at least get it checked out?" She asks, looking at him in annoyance.

"Uh no?" He responds, his usually expressionless face now seeming somewhat fearful.

"You're not a freaking superhuman, Leandro. Call a doctor right this second." Iris orders, narrowing her eyes at him.

"Fine." He groans, pulling out his phone while she looks at him in disapproval. She gives him a look before she turns toward me.

"And you, Carmine. You're coming with me." She says, walking out of the room. Everyone else, which is just Leandro, Luka, Aaron, Slater, Jay and Zayna just look at me questioningly, so I just shrug before walking out and following Iris.

I think everyone forgot that I was the one who screamed to warn Iris, but honestly, that's a good thing. On the other hand, I don't think Iris forgot, which is probably why we're currently heading in the direction of her bedroom.

Once we're both inside, Iris shuts the door and locks it, ensuring that nobody will disturb the conversation we're about to have before she hugs me.

"Y'know it's okay, right?" She mumbles.

I nod slowly, a lump having formed in my throat. A few moments later, she pulls away from the hug.

"I want you to know that I'm so, so proud of you for having spoken. I know it takes a lot of courage, and I'm honoured that the reason you spoke is because of me."

"Thank you." I manage to choke out, the lump in my throat making it difficult to get the words out. My voice sounds weird to my own ears, but, I don't think it's the type of weird that I mind.

"You're welcome, Car." Iris responds, scrunching her nose. "I need a new nickname for you. Car is awful."

I laugh at this, agreeing with her. "You're right, it sucks." I pause. "You mind not telling the others that I speak just yet?"

Iris frowns, looking at me weirdly. "Didn't they already hear you?"

"Yeah, but I don't think it really registered. Or I think they would've said something about it."

"Okay," She nods, "You have my word."

I grin, "You sound like Elijah Mikaelson."

"Who exactly is that?"

"Oh, dear child, there is still so much for you to learn. No matter, we'll begin watching The Vampire diaries tomorrow, and then you'll see exactly who Elijah is."