Chapter 4

Cara

It had been three years since the last time I talked with my cousin. We had a silent agreement that it will be the last. It was the day he renounced his position as the don of our family. He gave it back to me because he thought I was none other than the rightful heir. 

My father was the don before him and even though I was his only child and his real heir, he gave it to Sol instead, his brother’s son. He reasoned that he didn’t want me to inherit it because I was his only daughter and he didn’t want anything bad to happen to me the same thing that happened to his brother and his wife. And the fact that I was the only female born in the entire family, that includes the Ranallos. Our family was dominated by males. It was a given that I was treated like a princess by everyone.  

Being in the mafia, your life is always at risk and you are bound to have an unexpected death, especially when you're the face of the family. He didn’t want that for me. And though he denied me the position, I was still part of the mafia. Just a bit more discreetly. 

That was the majority of the reason. And I also knew that part of the reason he denied me was of my ways. My methods of how I handle… things. He didn’t like that. He didn’t like my... dark tendencies. 

Still, it’s not like I wanted the spotlight for me. I never had an ounce of interest in being the leader anyway. Despite my disposition, I believe in Sol. He was, after all, the kindest among us three. My father saw that. And he believed his legacy will be continued by him.

That is until he married the love of his life.

And though I agreed with my father’s decision, I couldn’t simply dismiss the chance for him to have his happiness. One he longed for so much. So with no second thoughts, I accepted it.

I must admit though, I have sought for action. I sought enjoyment more than sitting in my office all day doing business, meetings and signing papers. I was bored out of my mind and it had been a while since Sol and I interacted as a real family. He had been busy ever since he took over as don when babbo died. Unfortunately, he wanted me to stay away at that time. It was my father’s wish.

It was ironic that he gave it back to me and even thought I deserved it more. I very well know why. 

Three years later… I’ll be seeing him again. I know I shouldn’t but I longed to hear and see him. After all, he’s my brother. Both he and Vassily are.

“Ciao, fratello.” I greeted as soon as he answered his phone.

“Cara…” It was the first time I heard his voice since the last time we talked. 

“Missed me, fratello?” He was quiet. I can hear him breathe against the phone. “You do not have to answer that. We all know you are preoccupied with your family.” I said softly. I could not help but emit a small smile.

I have missed him so much. Even before I became the don. 

“You got that right, sorella.” I can feel his smile despite the distance and his invisibility. 

But this is no time for warm greetings and reunion. We have matters to settle. 

“However… I did not call you to ask what I already know.” I paused. “Sol… it seems that you stole something from me.”

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After the phone call, we immediately drove towards my cousin’s house. We did not need any direction from him. I have known it for years. I have let several of my men watch over them so no one would dare hurt his family. Even a single strand being harmed on the twins, they will know what to do.

As I stepped out from the vehicle, I smiled at how Sol chose a mansion for their home. He spared no expense for sure. 

I smirked as I sauntered towards him. He stood firmly by the entrance of his abode. He was waiting for our arrival. 

“Hello, my brother.” I said as soon as I was in front of him.

He embraced me instantly and kissed the side of my head. “I missed you, my little sister.” 

Surprisingly, his Italian accent had been reduced and it put a smile on my face. He always had a thicker accent.

“Dad?” The cutest voice I’ve ever heard pulled us out from our moment.

My eyebrows shot up in excitement when I saw my nephews behind their father. It was the first time I saw them. My heart fluttered in joy. I turned to my cousin and saw that he was smiling.

I stepped towards them and kneeled at their level. “Hello, little ones.” I almost laugh at the thought that they looked exactly like their father. One with clearest blue eyes and the other with hazel. There was not even a hint of doubt when you looked at them. Our family always has strong genes.

The two eyed me with curious looks while I was staring at them adoringly. I want to keep them and spoil them rotten. 

“Angelo, Adriano, this is your Aunt Cara.” I beamed at Sol’s introduction. I even grinned knowing the meaning of the twins’ name.

“Hello.” The two spoke in unison. My grin extended up until my ears.

Ah, how I desire to play and cuddle with these two. However, we have more pressing matters at hand so this will do for now.

“Franco.” I called. Franco immediately stood by my side. He handed me the gift I requested. I took it with sheer excitement and handed it to the twins.

“This is for you two. You can name him whatever you want. He’s a two month old golden retriever. Take care of him and love him, alright?” The two nodded in unison. They seem to do anything simultaneously and I love it.

“Happy birthday, Angelo and Adriano.” They blushed before throwing their arms around me at the same time. The puppy included. Their birthday was a couple of weeks ago but it’s better late than nothing.

“Thank you, Aunt Cara.” They said together, happiness blooming on their faces. A smile so wide painted them. 

“Angelo, Adriano.” The owner of the voice was a woman. When she stepped out of the door and saw us, she was stunned. 

Sol, woke her up from the trance. “Amore, come.” He beckoned her as I stood from my kneeling position.

“This is Cara Luna, my cousin, my sister. Cara, this is amore mio, Hailynn.”

Her smile mirrored mine, showing understanding and admiration. She knew me and I knew her. Hailynn emitted warmth and softness that of a mother as I observed her beside Sol. Their happiness and fulfillment cannot be denied.

“I apologize for suddenly appearing to you like this, especially that I’ve called only half an hour ago.” I watched my cousin, steadily. “But you and I need to talk.”

Hailynn looked up to her husband worriedly.