Chapter 7

Pierro Antonio Pov

After James arrived with Isabelle's belongings, I carefully arranged them in the bathroom, preparing everything for her bath. Sensing her hesitation and distress, I approached Isabelle with a tender gaze, filled with adoration and concern.

"Vita mia, the bath is prepared. Let's get you cleaned up," I softly spoke, but as I looked at Isabelle, I noticed she was peacefully sleeping in my bed. I couldn't bring myself to wake her from her slumber, knowing she must be exhausted after everything she had been through.

Resolving to wait until she woke up naturally, I decided to take a shower myself. After freshening up, I returned to the bed and lay down beside Isabelle, careful not to disturb her. As I settled next to her, I noticed she was tightly clutching onto my shirt. It filled my heart with warmth and a sense of protectiveness.

Cooing at her adorable display, I marveled at the trust she had placed in me. With a gentle touch, I brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face, silently promising to be there for her, to provide safety and love in every way possible.

With a sense of caution, I picked up my phone, seeing that it was my second son calling. I answered the call, mindful of maintaining a calm and collected demeanor.

"Father, what's taking you so long to arrive?" Salvatore's irritation seeped through his words, his impatience palpable.

"There were unforeseen complications on my way home," I replied, my tone cold and irritated voice.

"Alright, hurry up. The twins are causing trouble again," Salvatore snapped, his anger evident in his voice.

"I will be home tomorrow. Make sure that all of your brothers are there when I arrive. I have a surprise for them," I instructed him, keeping the details of my actions hidden for now.

Before Salvatore could press for more information, I abruptly ended the call, feeling the need to prioritize my attention on Isabelle. She was my priority, and ensuring her safety and well-being took precedence over any familial obligations.

I nestled closer to Isabelle, cherishing her presence and the trust she had placed in me. With a sense of calm determination, I closed my eyes, ready to face the challenges that awaited us. Tomorrow would bring a new chapter, one where justice would be served, and I would fulfill my promise to protect Isabelle at any cost.

As I slowly woke up, I felt a gentle poking sensation on my cheeks. Opening my eyes, I saw Isabelle, the angel who had brought a newfound sense of peace to my life. It was the first time in years that I had experienced such a peaceful slumber.

"Love, let's sleep a little longer. It's still too early," I murmured, my voice laced with the remnants of sleep.

But Isabelle, wriggling in my embrace, voiced her urgent need. "I w-wanna p-pee, m-mister," she said, her discomfort evident.

Understanding her predicament, I nodded with a smile. "Alright, let's get you to the bathroom," I replied, gently releasing my hold on her.

We made our way to the bathroom, ensuring her needs were met with care and patience. Once she was done, we descended the stairs, the aroma of a prepared breakfast wafting through the air. The table was set, ready to welcome us.

Since we didn't have a booster seat, I settled Isabelle on my lap, making sure she was comfortable and secure. Placing our plates in front of us, I noticed that she hadn't started eating her food.

"I d-don't k-know how t-to use t-thewse," Isabelle pointed shyly at the utensils, her uncertainty palpable.

"It's fine, love. I will feed you, okay?" I reassured her with a warm smile, understanding that she might still be adjusting to unfamiliar customs.

With each bite, I carefully fed Isabelle, ensuring she felt safe and nurtured. It was a small act of care, a way to show her that she was not alone, and that I was there to provide for her needs.

After we finished eating, I gently bathed Isabelle, tending to her with love and tenderness. As we prepared to return home to Italy, I packed our belongings, making sure everything was in order for our journey.

We arrived at the private airport, Isabelle peacefully sleeping in my arms. Santino opened the car door, and I stepped out, cradling Isabelle as I made my way towards my private jet. Once inside the plane, I carefully placed Isabelle in a comfortable room, ensuring she could continue her rest undisturbed.

With Isabelle settled, I approached Santino, eager to inquire about Nathalie and John. He confirmed that they had arrived and were safely secured in the basement, awaiting their impending justice.

As I finished speaking with Santino, I suddenly heard crying from the room where Isabelle was resting. Concerned, I quickly opened the door, finding my angel in tears.

"Vita mia, what's the problem?" I asked, my voice filled with worry.

"I had a scary nightmare, mister," Isabelle replied, her tiny hands rubbing her eyes.

"Oh, love, it's okay. I'm here with you. You're safe," I reassured her, my voice filled with certainty and warmth.

After comforting her, we stepped out of the room, hand in hand. I settled her in a seat beside me, and I noticed her gaze fixated outside the window, filled with a sense of wonder and amusement.

"Please fasten your seatbelt as we will be landing soon," the pilot's voice announced through the speaker. I secured my seatbelt and helped Isabelle fasten hers, ensuring her safety during the descent.

As the plane prepared to touch down, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Isabelle's presence brought a renewed sense of purpose and determination within me. I was resolved to protect her, provide her with the love and care she deserved, and ensure that her nightmares turned into beautiful dreams of joy and security.

As I noticed Isabelle holding onto my arm tightly, I gently placed her hands in my palm, making sure not to apply too much pressure. I reassured her with a soft voice, letting her know that everything was alright and that she was safe in my care.

Once the plane touched down, I lifted Isabelle in my arms, ready to carry her to our waiting car. However, she expressed her desire to walk on her own. Respecting her wishes, I set her down and followed closely behind her.

Observing Isabelle's struggle while walking, I couldn't help but wonder what might be causing her difficulty. My protective instinct urged me to pick her up and carry her, but she made it clear that she wanted to navigate the journey by herself. Trusting her instinct, I allowed her the independence she sought.

As the car began to move, I settled Isabelle on my lap, allowing her to play with my hand and the ring adorning my finger. Her innocent curiosity brightened the atmosphere, and I cherished these moments of connection.

Her eyes fell upon the black lines etched on my hand, and she asked about them, her voice filled with genuine intrigue. I smiled warmly, appreciating her curiosity.

"Those are tattoos, love," I explained, watching her delicate fingers trace the lines with fascination. "Each line tells a story, a part of who I am."

Isabelle's face lit up with wonder as she followed the intricate patterns with her fingertips. The simplicity of her appreciation reminded me of the beauty found in the smallest details.

"You h-have b-beautiful h-hands, m-mister," she remarked, her words sincere and filled with a purity that warmed my heart.

"Thank you, vita mia," I replied, touched by her kind words. "And you, my angel, have a beautiful soul."

As we approached our house, I felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension. I knew that Isabelle would soon come face to face with her older brothers, Nathalie and John. I wanted to prepare her, reassure her that she had nothing to fear, and that I would be by her side throughout the entire process.

Gently, I whispered to Isabelle, making sure she was aware of what awaited us. Her response was a simple hum, indicating her willingness to listen and trust in me.

"We are nearing our house, love," I began, my voice filled with warmth and reassurance. "When we arrive, you will see your older brothers there. Remember, there is no need to be scared. I will be with you every step of the way."

Curiosity sparked in Isabelle's eyes as she inquired, "Y-your b-babies?"

A bittersweet smile formed on my face as I gently corrected her, "No, love, they are not babies."

had explained to Isabelle numerous times before that they are old men, but it seemed difficult for her to grasp. However, in that moment, I chose not to correct her further. I didn't want to cause any sadness or confusion.

As we entered through the grand gate, I couldn't help but notice Isabelle's excitement and eagerness to meet her "babies." Her innocent anticipation tugged at my heart, reminding me of the innocence she had been denied for far too long. I couldn't help but let out a small scoff, acknowledging the disparity between her expectations and reality.

As the car came to a stop in front of the house, I stepped out, feeling a surge of protectiveness toward Isabelle. I noticed Santino standing by the door, ready to open it for her, but I gestured for him to stand back. This was a moment I wanted to handle myself.

Walking over to Isabelle's side, I extended my hand, offering her a reassuring smile. "Let's go, vita mia," I said softly, guiding her towards the entrance.