~ELENA~

My three stepbrothers turn to me after Giacomo leaves.

I stare back at the three identical faces.

And I…I don't know what to say.

My breath comes in shallow puffs.

I grip the edge of the sink to keep from sliding to the floor.

They didn't hit him.

Not really.

But they didn't have to.

The way they looked at him….the way they moved, was more terrifying than any punch.

“Are you alright?” Riccardo asks gently, the sharpness gone from his voice.

I nod quickly, eyes wide.

“I…yes.”

Vincenzo steps closer. “Did he touch you anywhere else?”

I shake my head, and to my own surprise, tears sting the...