Chapter 12. : THE VISIT

DIANA'S POV

I gazed at my bandaged palm and sighed, what if Franco didn't come that day, I would probably be uniting with my family and Maria. But Dante…

At this point, I was determined not to let suicide cross my mind again, I am sure father won't be happy if I leave Dante alone. I had to focus on finding my brother and ensuring his safety. The uncertainty about his whereabouts weighed heavily on my mind, and I could only hope that he was unharmed.

My door suddenly swung open and Franco came in with a shopping bag and dropped it on the bed.” I was asked to give you this, you have been wearing those clothes since you came.” Franco nonchalantly said.

“I don't want them.” I mumbled and Franco let out a soft laugh.

“Don't you get it? You have no choices or decisions to Make, no one is giving you room for that, you are a prisoner here.” Franco's words echoed in my ear and I gritted my teeth slowly.

“It's best to drop your stubborn attitude and succumb to Don. He's your Master.” he concluded before leaving the room.

I stared at the door for a long time, my emotions were void, expressions were hard to form,I felt numb and lifeless, everyday, reality sank into me and my inner self is at the verge of giving up.

Sniffing briefly, I picked up the bag and realized it was filled with clothes. I unknowingly let out a chuckle and bit my lips.

Why would Enzo get clothes for me? Does he now have sympathy or pity? Any of which,I don't need. The only way he could help me was to release me.

I suddenly started hearing noises from outside and I came curious, what was happening? Has someone come to my rescue? Or was an intruder here to kill me?

Feeling rather defensive, I glanced around searching for an object to protect myself with.

“You can't go in there sir.” I heard someone's shaky voice say.

“ Why? Don't I have the right?” Another voice, deep and masculine asked and I couldn't help but feel confused, that voice looked familiar.

“Mr Enzo would not have it once he finds out you came here. You should leave.” Franco's voice came forth and I felt a bit calm.

“ You are Enzo's right hand man huh? I'm not here to cause a ruckus, just want to see the girl.”

There was a brief silence then I heard clicking of heels coming to the direction of my room and any one could guess it was Francesca.

“What's happening? Let him in.” Francesca's demanding voice spoke.

I immediately heard the sound of the key clicking and my door opened. A man as tall as Enzo walked in with a satisfied smile on his face.

“The famous Diana D'Angelo huh?” He spoke as he stood some distance away from me.

“Who are you and what do you want from me?” I spoke coldly, not sparing him a glance.

“Is that how you speak to my brother?” Francesca questioned and realization dawned on me.

No wonder I found his voice familiar, I have heard it before.

“I see a traitor if I'm not mistaken.” I mumbled.

“What did you just say?” Francesca's ever angry voice arose and I glanced casually at her red face.

“ Aren't you traitors? Anyway, I don't have the strength to put up with your words today.” I spoke to her and she stomped her heels hard to the ground.

“How dare this bitch…” Francesca tried to charge forward to me but was blocked by her brother.

“That's enough Francesca, Go away from here now.” I heard him command her.

“Even you… I don't know why you and Enzo would treat me like this because of this wench!” Franseca yelled before leaving. I watched her retreating figure and shrugged, waiting for her brother to follow.

“This place doesn't fit you huh?” I heard him say and looked up at him without saying a word.

“I should get you out of here soon.” He paused as he looked around.

“I don't need your help.” I replied.

“You will, one way or the other.”

“I see you trust Enzo huh? Who would believe your childhood friend would stab you in the back and kill your family?” He spoke in mockery and I clenched my fist tightly in anger.

“Carlos Lombardi.” I heard a voice call in anger and we both turned towards the direction of the voice. It was Enzo, his expression was cold as he glared at Carlos.

“Oh, Enzo. I just came to say hello to Miss Diana.” Carlos spoke before gazing at me lustfully.

“Let's talk in my study.” Enzo stated and Carlos gave me one last stare before leaving the room.

Franco came inside almost immediately and looked at me. Without saying a word, he locked the room and I could hear his retreating steps.

I was utterly confused on what just happened, if they were alliances, why was it difficult for him to see me? Was there more to it?

"Why would you come to my home without my notice?" Enzo asked coldly, his eyes narrowing.

Carlos shrugged nonchalantly. "I just came to see my... investment, if she was doing well."

Enzo's expression darkened. "That doesn't give you the right to barge into my house without my presence. It makes me think you're an enemy trying to undermine me."

Carlos's expression turned serious. "Enemy, huh? I can make that a reality if you don't hand over the girl."

Enzo's face twisted in anger. "Carlos Lombardi, you have no claim to her. What makes you think you have the right to take her?"

Carlos's voice rose. "I have every right to her, Don. Give me the girl if you don't want a battle between us."

Enzo's eyes flashed with fury. "If you ever come to my house without my notice again, I won't hesitate to visit yours."

Carlos stood up, his expression unyielding. "I will take my leave now."

As Carlos departed, Enzo seethed with anger, his mind reeling from the audacity of the threat. How dare Carlos challenge him like that?