Used as collateral
1257 Words
Irina’s POV
"Get ready before 6 pm tomorrow" was the man's final words before leaving our house. I looked at Natalia with an expression that said what just happened.
"Dad used you as collateral so you have to work for that man until his debts are paid” Natalia said while holding my hands.
I didn't realize when I started crying but my Dad showed no concern or remorse. What was I even expecting?
That night I cried myself to sleep hoping it was a nightmare but sadly it wasn’t.
~~~
Natalia woke me saying she wanted to make this day a very memorable one but we needed to be back before 5:30pm.
Our first stop was our favorite spot—our mum's favorite ice cream place. Since she passed away we made sure to visit once a month even if it meant sneaking out. Over time it became our special place.
I've never gone shopping before but I promised myself I would someday.
When people emerged from the mall near the ice cream shop, I sighed. Natalia noticed and said we would go shopping.
"Shopping?” I asked. "We both know we can't afford it so maybe we should go somewhere else” I suggested but she insisted we go.
Inside the mall everything was exactly as I imagined but the dresses were ridiculously expensive. We spent most of our time looking at the dresses but ended up with only four, two for me and two for Natalia.
Soon after we got home the Scoundrel arrived. I didn't have many clothes so packing was easy. I hugged Natalia and she told me “I love you. Take care of yourself." I didn't want to let go but I had to.
I followed the man outside and was stunned. “Who comes to pick up collateral in a Porsche?” I muttered. Though I didn't know much about cars my friends talked endlessly about them.
The car was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen; it felt like I was dreaming. I was admiring it when the engine roared and a voice asked “Are you going to stand there forever, or can we leave?” I didn't notice when he left my side or got into the car.
The interior was spotless. The ride was silent and awkward. It wasn't until we were in the car that I realized how handsome Mr. Scoundrel was. I stared out the window wondering when we would reach our destination.
“These people are full of surprises” I thought. Was this a house or a mansion? I was admiring the house when he coughed, signaling me to follow.
A grand chandelier welcomed us and the furniture was black and gold matching the marble floor decorated with black and gold patterns.
Suddenly I heard "Leonardo is she here?" I looked in the direction the voice came from and saw a tall, handsome figure with shining earrings—probably diamonds. His dangerous stare made me want to crawl under the ground.
"Rule number 1: whenever Andrea talks, you look at the ground" the man beside him said.
Not like I couldn't meet his gaze. Natalia always called me weird for not calling guys handsome but this man was more than handsome—he was perfect.
I nodded and looked down.
"One of my maids, Elena, will show you your room and explain how things work here" Andrea said. Not knowing what to say, I stayed silent until I heard "When I talk to you, respond. If not there will be consequences." The tone sent shivers down my spine. I replied "Okay sir."
"Lil bro come here, I have some work for you" Andrea then called out.
“So, Mr. Scoundrel is the boss's little brother and his name is Leonardo” I muttered under my breath.
~~~~
Andrea’s POV
"Leonardo is she here?” I asked as I entered the living room. I felt eyes on me and saw her striking light grey eyes. She looked quite young for someone used as collateral. I was admiring her beauty when Diego said to her "Rule number 1: whenever Andrea talks, you look at the ground."
I was so captivated by her that I forgot about the rule. I’ve never forgotten my rules but it happened today for the first time, I lost myself due to her beauty.
"One of my maids, Elena, will show you your room and how things work here," I said. I wondered, Is she deaf?
"When I talk to you, respond. If not there will be consequences" I said, anger evident. She softly muttered "Okay sir" sounding calm and sweet.
"Lil bro come here, I have some work for you" I said as I left the room.
We reached my office, and I explained what I needed him to do.
"So this is the work you have for me? Why do you need so much information about her?” Leonardo asked. “None of your business Leo" I snapped, dismissing him.
~~~~
“What took you so long?" I blurted out. Leonardo didn't answer, he just read through the information.
Name: Irina Petrova
Age:17
Date of Birth: August 8th, 2008
Her mother died seven years ago due to health issues. She has been living with her sister, Nataila and father. Natalia is…
"Did I ask you about Natalia or Irina?” I snarled.
They moved to Italy the year before her mother died. She graduated from the Istituto Tecnico a few months ago and has been at home ever since
"That’s all the information I could get” Leonardo said before leaving.
She’s only been here a few minutes yet I can’t stop thinking about her. I need to do something.
~~~~
Irina’s POV
“Hey, you must be the new maid" a beautiful lady said.
"Yes, I am" I replied with a smile.
"I’m Elena and I’ll show you around" she said.
She looked a few years older than me, probably two or four years older.
The staff quarters were bigger than my house. “This is your room" Elena said.
"My room!" I exclaimed, my eyes widened. I walked inside admiring everything.
She gave me a tour of the house, which was kind of useless. I would need a map to find my way around this house I said to myself.
The bed was incredibly comfortable but I couldn't sleep. My mind rambled aimlessly, I checked the clock and it was 6:00. Before I could turn my head I saw Elena who came to get me and we headed to the main house. She cooked and I swept the dining and living rooms while the others took care of the rest.
"Please tell the boss breakfast is ready” Elena asked. I didn't know where his room was but I found it after checking every other room. When I opened the door, Andrea was coming out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel. My eyes couldn't help but admire his body.
"God, those tattoos” I whispered, beginning to drool.
"Are you just going to stand there or speak?" he asked rudely.
"Food is ready sir" I said and left immediately not waiting for his response.
He arrived in the dining room in a black suit, just like yesterday. Is black his favorite color? I wondered.
"Irina, come to my office in ten minutes" he ordered before leaving the room.
What does he want to talk about? Do I even know where his office is?
- Writer
