Chapter 44
As the early morning sunlight crept through the sheer curtains, Isabella slowly opened her eyes, she had been waking up quite early, and she was not used to her new surroundings yet. She had only arrived at Leonardo's base two days ago, still getting accustomed to the layout and the feel of the place.
With a yawn, she sat up in bed and rubbed her eyes, taking in the way the light danced across the room. The cool breeze from the open window tickled her skin, and she could hear the distant sounds of tire screeching and gunshots.
Stretching her arms above her head, Isabella swung her legs over the edge of the bed and stood up, the soft carpet beneath her feet feeling strange and new. She padded over to the window and looked out at the view, taking in the sight of the beautiful garden.
Turning back to the room, she noticed the way the sunlight illuminated the simple decor - the sleek, modern furniture, and the soft pastel colors on the walls.
She took her bath before proceeding to the dressing room. This place was different than the other places, Isabella wasn't sure yet if she liked it. The room here was bigger, she no longer ate in her room because all meals were served in the dining room.
Isabella hadn't caught the sight of Leonardo since he separated from them, she knew he was busy but wished to catch a glimpse of him. She was cooped up in the room most of the time, but Miss Payne always kept her company and told her funny stories of her past. With the presence of Miss Payne, the place seemed bearable.
She was strolling down the garden as usual to admire the beautiful flowers before going for breakfast, the garden was a serene oasis, filled with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. The sun cast a warm glow over the perfectly manicured lawn, and the sound of birdsong filled the air. A meandering path made of crushed stone and flanked by tall hedges led to a tranquil pond, where a fountain bubbled softly. The air was sweet with the scent of blooming roses and lavender. She was busy admiring the garden when she felt a figure behind her, she turned swiftly.
“fuck you scared me,” she said in shock
“ what do you want Vito?” she asked
” I see you are looking damn well, I never expected you to last this long though,” Vito said nonchalantly. Isabella couldn't care less.
“ you keep fooling around, there are plenty of places to stand in this garden but it's fine I will let you have that space” she retorted trying to walk away but Vito blocked her.
“oh you have got some guts now, where is that scared little Isabella, you ladies seem to have your way with things,” Vito said nonchalantly
Isabella was in no mood to banter words with him “ Get the fuck out of my way Vito”
“Calm down barbie, I heard you almost climbed his bed. Just a friendly reminder, you will be used and left like the others. You are feeling special because, in your peanut brain, you are special. Nah! baby girl but sorry to break it down to you, you ain't shit. So enjoy yourself for now, I will be at the other end of the road so that when you get discarded I can easily pick you up. Mind you watch your back, he can't protect you all round the clock” Vito threatened in a low tone before giving her a devilish grin as he walked away. Isabella stood there in shock, wasn't something she was expecting to hear this morning. She knew Vito's type and his words didn't bother her.
“Come, child” Miss Payne called out as Isabella was about entering her room.
“What was he talking about?, you don't seem too happy," Miss Payne asked, she had witnessed the whole scene but decided not to intervene.
“He was just talking gibberish” Isabella responded
“Don't listen to him child, the likes of him are everywhere?” Miss Payne said smiling at her.
Isabella nodded, trying to shake off the unease that Vito's words had left her with. She knew she couldn't let him get to her, but it was hard not to feel a little shaken. She had been trying to stay positive and make the best of her situation, but Vito's cruel words had struck a nerve.
"Thanks, Miss Payne," she said, forcing a smile. "I'll try to ignore him."
Miss Payne nodded, her eyes warm with understanding. "That's the spirit, child. Now, let's go get some breakfast. I'm sure Leonardo will want to see you today."
Isabella's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Leonardo's name. She had been trying to avoid thinking about him, but it was hard not to wonder what he was doing and why he had been avoiding her.
As they walked to the dining room, Isabella couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. She knew she had to be careful around Vito, but she also knew she couldn't let him intimidate her. She was determined to stay strong and make the best of her situation, no matter what Vito or anyone else threw her way.
As they entered the dining room, Isabella's eyes scanned the table, searching for Leonardo. But he wasn't there. Instead, she saw Vito, smirking at her from across the table.
"Good morning, Barbie," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I see you're still looking lovely today."
Isabella rolled her eyes, trying to ignore him. But it was hard to shake off the feeling of unease that had settled in her stomach.
"Good morning, Vito," she said coolly, taking her seat at the table. "I see you're still being your charming self."
Vito chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Hey, someone's got to keep things interesting around here."
Isabella sighed, trying to focus on her breakfast. But it was hard to enjoy her meal with Vito's constant banter and snide comments.
Just as she was starting to feel like she couldn't take it anymore, Miss Payne spoke up.
"Vito, that's enough," she said, her voice firm but gentle. "Let Isabella eat her breakfast in peace."
Vito grinned but subsided, his eyes never leaving Isabella's face.
Isabella smiled, grateful to Miss Payne for intervening. She knew she couldn't handle Vito on her own, but with Miss Payne's help, she felt like she could face anything.
“Sorry Barbie, enjoy your breakfast, Miss Payne, I will be joining the boss now,” he said taking the last piece of sandwich on his plate and he left.