Chapter 1 My adopted sister Nerina Bianchi said I stole her watch. And my brother Fabio Romano? He didn't just believe her. He sued me. Hired the best lawyer in the city to make sure the charges stuck. Three years. That's what I got for something I never did. By the time the verdict came down, I was already a thief in everyone's eyes. The lawyer tried to talk some sense into him before they led me away. "Just scare her. That's enough. If she actually does time, you'll ruin her life." My brother didn't even blink. "Stealing isn't a joke. She needs to learn. And after?

I'll take care of her." Three years later, I walked out. He was waiting. Eyes red. Hand outstretched. "You know you were wrong now, right? Come on. Let's go home." I stepped back. Didn't say a word. Didn't even look at his hand. I already had a sister. Found her inside. And she believed me when no one else would. *** When my brother saw me pull away, confusion flickered across his face. But he didn't lower his hand. Instead, he reached for me again faster this time, more determined and grabbed hold. "Emilia, why are you dodging me?

Did someone in there hurt you?" His voice came out rough, like his throat was stuffed with cotton. I tried to pull free. He wouldn't let go. So I just said, flatly, "No." He exhaled, relieved, and tightened his grip. "Thank God. I read online that place is a nightmare. I was so worried something happened to you..." He put on this whole act like he was relieved, tears actually welling up, and I couldn't help but feel sick. The same person who went out of her way to frame me, who put me in prison, was standing right in front of me, pretending to care.

He forced a smile and tugged me toward the car, almost pleading. "You used to love being around people, remember? I threw you a welcome-home party at the house. Come on, let's go home." I glanced back at the prison. My new family, Aria D'Angelo. Daughter of the D'Angelo Family Godfather. Unlike me, Aria was only there because it was safer inside. We'd already made a plan: in one month, I'd pick him up when he got out, and then I'd go with him to his family. But Dad's things were still at the main house. So I got in the car with my brother and went back.

Chapter 1 50.00% On the way, he ran his hand over my buzzed head, half reminder, half warning. "Emilia. No more stealing That was your lesson." I clenched my fist quietly. For three years, I'd sent him messages through the guards. Countless times. I didn't steal Nerina Bianchi's things. She framed me. He never believed me. So this time, I wasn't going to explain. I just nodded. Compliant. "Okay." Satisfied, he smiled and took me home. The second the door opened, bang, confetti exploded everywhere. Nerina stood there holding a party popper, beaming. "Emilia!

Gold unlock

Unlock to read full on web

Web currently shows a short preview only. Unlock with gold or subscribe Premium to read the full novel content.

Need 1,430 gold to unlock this novel.

Get Premium Gold free