Black List

CHAPTER 5.2 - VALENTINA ROSSI

"Is this really my fate?" I thought, nearly dying. And like in a dream, I woke up. Gasping, as if I’d run a marathon.

And he just watched from the side, laughing at my suffering.

I got up from the floor and headed to the elevator. He didn’t even try to stop me.

Downstairs, I picked up the letter. Old paper, slightly bloodstained handwriting. With trembling hands, I opened it:

_"Daughter, I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you for long. Remember those stories I told you at bedtime? In none of them did I give you a necklace. 'Trust him,' I’d say. He will protect you.

Now I’ll tell you the truth: your real name is Valentina Rossi, daughter of Christopher Price, your father.

I fled to protect you and changed my identity so the Rossi curse wouldn’t reach you. But if you’re reading this letter, it’s because you’ve already discovered the truth... your family owes the Crowes a life debt and..."_

"And what, mom!?"

My tears soaked the paper. They weren’t just any tears. They were the tears of someone who had lived a lie their whole life.

The letter seemed rushed and unfinished. Whatever it was, I’d have to find out on my own. After all... I had nothing left.

But then I thought of Chiara. My little sister.

I promised my best friend I’d protect her daughter, no matter what. She died in childbirth, and I became the little girl’s guardian.

We only had each other. Two girls abandoned by their parents.

I promised myself I’d do anything for Chiara.

Most importantly now: get her away from Valen.