We were Born to Die

Chapter 07

I sat there,

adjusting to my new surroundings, clad in my chosen attire—a simple white

t-shirt paired with a baggy black trouser. My brown locks were hastily tied up

in a messy bun, adding the casual vibe. Beside me sat d**k—well, that’s what I

decided to call Enrico for now—and flanking us were Salvatore and Daniella, the

latter of whom was causing quite the stir with her presence.

I had laid down my

conditions, clear and concise, hoping they would be respected. First and

foremost, I made it known that I wouldn’t be undertaking any missions or

errands against my own family. My loyalty was unwavering, even in this

precarious situation. Secondly, I demanded that Daniella steer clear of my

brother. Enrico hesitated, but I stood my ground and this one still is under

consideration. He needed someone to keep to keep an eye on me, but it wouldn’t

be at my brother expense. Thirdly, I insisted that my identity remain shrouded

in secrecy, a necessity to protect myself and those I cared about. And lastly,

I made it clear that I expected compensation for my services, along with the

occasional reprieve to enjoy some well-deserved downtime.

“So, what I am

doing today?” I inquired, trying to shift the focus away from the tension in

the room.

Enrico’s gaze

flicked to me for a moment before returning to his breakfast. “With that

injury, I doubt you’ll be much use. Perhaps take the time to explore this

place.” He suggested casually, though I could not help but wonder his

alternative motive.

“And what are you

doing today?” I turned to Daniella, trying to keep my tone neutral despite the

anger boiling inside me just by looking at her.

“None of your

business,” she sneered, her smile sharp as she bit into her toast.

I clenched my fist

under the table, struggling to contain the anger boiling within me. But I

forced to remain calm. I poured myself a glass of juice, “It is my business

whatever the s**t show you are playing with my brother, I need to know it,” I

said, my voice eerily calm but laced with a raw, simmering anger that

threatened to boil over at any moment. I watched as Daniella’s expression

hardened, her eyes narrowing as she seized me up. I was playing a dangerous

game, and she knew it. But instead of backing down, she met my gaze head-on,

her own gaze ablaze with defiance.

“So if you don’t

mind, may I ask again what are you doing today?” I asked, my tone dripping with

taunt, unable to resist the urge to goad her further. She turned her gaze to

Enrico, her fury evident. Then, without missing a beat, she turned back to me,

curling her lips into a smirk.

“We are fucking

today,” she said bluntly, causing Salvatore to choke on his coffee in surprise,

his eyes widening in disbelief. “Wanna know positions too.” She added, her grin

widening as she reveled in the discomfort she caused. I clenched my fist,

feeling the urge to lash out at her rising like a tidal wave, but before I

could act, Enrico intervened.

“Enough, Daniella.

Stop trying to provoke her.” He said firmly, rising from his seat casting a

stern glance in my direction. I shot Daniella a withering glare, accompanied by

a not-so-subtle gesture that left no room for misinterpretation. But before I

could unleash the full extent of my fury, Enrico spoke again, his voice cutting

through the tension like a knife. “Come, you have to meet someone.” He said,

gesturing for me to follow him.

I hesitated for a

moment, my gaze lingering on Daniella, before reluctantly pushing back my chair

and joining Enrico. As stepped out of the dining room, Enrico turned to me, his

gaze assessing. “Maybe you should change into something more appropriate.” He

suggested, his voice low and authoritative. “I’ll wait for you in the study

room.” With a nod, I headed towards my new room, toast in my mouth, the

encounter with Daniella still fresh in my mind.

As I stood before

my new wardrobe, the array of clothes seemed to taunt me, each piece whispering

a different suggestion. But after much contemplation, I settled on a classic

combination; a black sweater neatly tucked into brown trousers, paired with

sleek black pumps. Running my fingers through my loose curls, I applied a touch

of light makeup to enhance my features before making my way to study room.

As I pushed open

the door, my heart skipped a beat as I caught sight of Enrico. He looked as

dashing as ever, his brown sweater fitting him perfectly, the sleeves rolled up

to reveal his strong veiny arms adorned with a luxurious watch. His black

trousers and shoes added to his aura of power, while his impeccably styled hair

framed his handsome face. As our eyes met, a flutter of anticipation danced in

my stomach. Enrico’s features were like work of art, each angle sharp and

defined, his jawline cutting through the air with precision. His broad

shoulders and muscular frame secrete strength and confidence, drawing me in

with an irresistible magnetism.

Without a word,

Enrico rose from his chair, his movement fluid and graceful. My breath caught

in my throat as he approached me, his presence commanding the room with an

effortless charm, “Shall we?” he asked, his voice deep and resonant, broke

through the silence, and I nodded, my heart racing with anticipation.

As we walked, I

couldn’t help but admire the paintings adoring the walls, each one more

mesmerizing than the last, hinting at a depth and complexity beyond what met

the eyes. Finally, we arrived at our destination—a hall that resembled more of

a compound center than a study. Computers hummed softly in the background,

weapons gleamed in their racks, and various gadgets lined the shelves. In the

center of it all stood a table, surrounded by five chairs, three of which were

already occupied and the three of them turned to see us.

“There he is.” One

of the guys said, his voice smooth like silk. He was beautiful, flawless even.

With his blonde, tousled hair that looked effortlessly perfect, and those

mesmerizing green eye that sparkled like pale emerald. His attire was simple

yet stylish, with light grey trousers and a white t-shirt under a dark grey

lapel sweatshirt.

Next to him stood

another guy, equally as captivating but with an air of mystery surrounding him.

His expression was unreadable, unlike the others, yet his classic beauty was

undeniable. He was tall, with dark hair that framed his face elegantly, and

golden-brown skin that seemed to glow in the light. His eyes, a warm shade of

brown, held a depth that spoke volumes, yet revealed nothing. His features were

refined, his physique muscular and well-defined.

And then there was

the third guy, dressed casually yet releasing an aura of strength and

confidence. His black cargo pants and white t-shirt were topped with an open

zip grey hood; over which he wore a black puffer jacket. Taller than both the

other men, and even taller than Enrico, he had an imposing presence that was

impossible to ignore.

With his black

hair and clean fair skin, complemented by the dark brown eyes that held a hint

of mischief, he was a sight to behold. His features were rugged, yet undeniably

handsome, and his massive frame hinted at the power and strength that lay

beneath the surface. And when he flashed me a soft, shy smile and my heart

melted. I couldn’t help but return a soft smile too.

As we settled

down, I found myself sandwiched between Enrico on my right and the massive guy

on my left. Enrico broke the silence, his voice cutting through the silence.

“This is Carabella Falconetti.” He announced, and I shot him a glare, silently

cursing him for revealing my identity. Keeping my identity hidden was a

non-negotiable condition for me. Before I could voice my argue, Enrico shot me

a meaningful look, reassuring me with his eyes. “This is my inner circle, my

loyal friend. No need to worry.” He added, and I felt a wave of relief wash

over me, albeit fleeting.

“So, she’s the one

joining us?” the blonde guy inquired, his gaze fixed on me with curiosity

dancing in his eyes. “Yes, she’ll be lending her assistance from now on.”

Enrico confirmed, his tone decisive.

“And for how

long?” I couldn’t help but ask, the uncertainty gnawing at me. The three men

turned their attention to Enrico, awaiting his response. “Until I say so,” he

replied, his voice icy and unwavering. I couldn’t suppress the urge to roll my

eyes at his typical arrogant.

Enrico shifted the

focus to introductions, a slight sense of unease lingering in the air. “Let’s

begin with introductions, shall we?” he suggested. With a nod, he proceeded,

“This is Zane Thatcher, a whiz with computers, hacking and codes,” he indicated

to the blonde guy, who responded with a rather vulgar gesture, earning a

stifled snort from me.

“Ryder Donovan,”

Enrico continued, gesturing toward the elegant man beside him, “an assassin

skilled in handling weapons.” Ryder acknowledge me with a subtle nod, his gaze

intense yet enigmatic.

“And finally, Lee Min-Woo.”

Enrico concluded, pointing to the massive guy on my left, “half Korean,

proficient in hand-to-hand combat. He’ll be your partner on missions.”

I turned my gaze to meet Min-Woo’s gaze, he

gave me another soft smile, my heart flustered despite the ache that

accompanied it. “Nice to meet you.” He said in sign language. It hit me like a

ton of brick’s – he’s a mute. Yet, his beauty and handsome features captivated

me instantly. But the realization weighed heavy on my heart.

I couldn’t help

but feel a pang of sadness as I looked at him. His eager expression mirrored my

own uncertainty. Gathering my courage, I replied both in sign language and

aloud, “Looking forward to working with you.” His nod was all the confirmation

I needed.

Enrico’s

interruption broke the moment, his throat clearing to draw our attention. “So,

as far you know that Cara Mia is injured…”

I couldn’t help

but interject, “I’m fine. My leg doesn’t hurt. The shot only tore some muscles,

and now I am fine.” Enrico glanced at me, then addressed the others.

“As, she is

perfectly fine,” he confirmed his eyes returning to me. “Here’s your good news

then. Tomorrow, you’re going on your very first mission.” He announced, his

gaze lingering on me.

My heart sank at

the thought. Sure, I might be physically capable, but the idea of fighting sent

shivers down my spine. I maintained my calm exterior and inquired, “And what is

that?” All eyes turned to me, then back to Enrico, who deferred to Zane.

“Zane will tell you the details,” he said,

rising from his seat. “Now that you all know each other, I hope I am of no

further need.” With a final glare in my direction and a directive to Min-Woo,

he exited the room.