Mafia's Only Daughter ✔

70. HEALING THROUGH FORGIVENESS.

ISABELLA'S POV:

I sit in my study, staring at the screen, working tirelessly. It's 3 am., and I don't feel like sleeping. Honestly, there's no one to coax me into bed anyway. The emptiness of this penthouse doesn't feel like home.

Yes, I shifted here two and a half months ago. The day Advay Bhai reached Romano Mansion and everyone discovered the artwork on my thighs, I left, after fifteen days of constant hovering from my family, I told them I needed space.

They were always around, not leaving me alone for even a second. Vince, as much as he tried, also had his business to attend to. I sent him back to Russia, assuring him I'd call if I needed him. Still, everyone makes it a point to call me daily, usually at odd hours' early mornings or late nights. Sometimes, they even barge into my home unannounced. It's suffocating.

Tired of it all, I decided to blow off some steam tonight.

I changed into appropriate clothing, covered my face, and headed out for an underground fight. Winning two matches back-to-back wasn't surprising, but now my ribs are screaming in protest. The pain is sharper with every breath, and driving feels impossible. The nearest place I can think of is Romano Mansion.

I park my bike at the gates and stagger inside, the pain intensifying. Unable to bear it any longer, I collapse onto the couch in the living room, exhaustion taking over. Sleep teases my senses, but a sudden jolt of pain courses through me, ripping a scream from my throat.

"PAPAAAA!" My voice echoes through the silence, but there's no response.

Minutes pass with no sign of anyone, so I force myself up, each movement a fresh agony, and head toward the emergency phone by the stairs. My fingers tremble as I dial the number.

"Ahhhhhhh..." A cry escapes my lips as I fall to the ground, unable to stay upright.

Suddenly, after a minute or more the lights flicker on, and I see Matteo rushing toward me. Without hesitation, he picks me up and carries me to the third floor. I can barely process his movements as he dials someone, his voice is urgent.

Soon, the sound of footsteps fills the mansion, and within moments, Luca is by my side, working on me with expert precision. His face is calm yet focused as he begins treating me, not wasting a second.

2 DAYS LATER...

I sit in my old room in the Romano Mansion. I came back here, and for once, no one asked me any questions. Instead, they took care of me.

Big Bhai, Andreano is sitting beside me, his presence comforting. I smile at him before speaking.

"Can I ask you something, Ande?"

He nods silently, giving me the go-ahead. I look directly into his eyes, my heart heavy with questions.

"Why don't I feel relief, even after punishing them or myself? I just want peace, Bhai. Please, give me some peace. The pain in my body has lessened, but the pain in my heart refuses to fade."

He pulls me into a hug, and I feel the warmth of his embrace. Tears stream down my face as I let myself be vulnerable. Pulling away slightly he speaks softly, his words like a balm to my aching soul.

"Forgive yourself, Bella. And try to forgive them too. Maybe, just maybe, you'll find the peace you're searching for."

Nodding, I wipe my face and follow him downstairs to the living room, where Papa and my brothers are gathered. As soon as Inzoo and Andro see me, they rush over, wrapping me in a tight hug. I return their embrace, holding them close.

Once they settle back on the couch, I sit beside Papa. Clearing my throat, I announce, "I have something to say to all of you."

Everyone straightens up, their attention is fixed on me.