CHAPTER 25

"Meeting you was like finding a hidden treasure in the midst of chaos." - Unknown

Isla Isabelle POV

Listening attentively to Nana's gentle advice, I realized the importance of maintaining eye contact when communicating with others. Her calm demeanor and encouraging words inspired me to gather my courage and lift my gaze, meeting her eyes. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips, acknowledging my effort.

"I am your nana, Evelyn Grace Rossi-Caruso," she introduced herself, her voice brimming with warmth and affection. "But you can call me nana, just like everyone else. I want you to know that I truly love you." Her words wrapped around my heart like a comforting embrace, filling me with a sense of belonging.

As I looked towards Nonno, Gavin Theodore Caruso, I could sense the gravity in his presence. Nana's reassurance reminded me that appearances can be deceiving and that beneath his intimidating exterior, there lay a heart of kindness and protection. With a sincere smile, Nonno affirmed his commitment to safeguarding me, no matter the challenges we may face.

Their embrace enveloped me, a physical manifestation of the love and protection they offered. It was a moment of reassurance, reminding me that I was not alone in this journey. Their promises to watch over and care for me brought a sense of security, allowing a glimmer of hope to blossom within my heart.

Nonno's mention of a future gift sparked a flicker of excitement within me, curious about what he had in store. The anticipation of a special token from him filled my thoughts with wonder and curiosity.

"Since everyone is introduced what about let's eat and rest because I know you all are tired and hungry from the flight." As we gathered in the kitchen, the aroma of delicious food filled the air, awakening our appetites after the long journey. Papa, with his caring nature, guided everyone to their seats, ensuring that we were comfortable and well-rested.

Around the dining table, a sense of warmth and togetherness enveloped us. Nonno, seated at the head of the table, exuded an air of authority, while Nana, beside him, radiated elegance and grace. Their conversations about business and other matters created a harmonious atmosphere, reflecting the bond of understanding and respect they shared.

Although I was eager to join in the conversation and learn more about my new family, I felt a slight tap on my hand, and when I turned to look, it was Seb, trying to communicate with me. I couldn't hear his words amidst the lively chatter around us, but his gesture was clear. He was offering to fetch something from the table for me.

Shyly, I shook my head, indicating that I didn't need anything at the moment. However, Seb being the thoughtful and caring brother that he was, insisted on making sure I was comfortable. With a warm smile, I finally nodded, pointing to a glass of water that caught my eye.

In an instant, Seb skillfully poured me a glass of water and placed it gently before me. His kindness made me feel appreciated and welcomed, as if I was already a part of this loving family.

As the day continued, I couldn't help but notice how everyone in the Caruso family remained incredibly attentive and caring towards me. Their constant inquiries about my needs and desires touched my heart, but I still found myself struggling to open up fully. The warmth and love they extended to me were overwhelming, yet my shyness and past fears seemed to create a barrier that hindered my ability to fully embrace their affection.

My thoughts often drifted back to William, the family member who had expressed his doubts earlier. Though his words had stung, I couldn't help but acknowledge that he had a point. A part of me doubted whether I truly deserved the love and care this family showered upon me. What if I proved to be a disappointment or couldn't live up to their expectations? The fear of rejection loomed in my mind like a dark cloud.

Amidst my inner turmoil, Nana's words interrupted my thoughts, bringing me back to the present. She lovingly placed more food on my plate, urging me to eat heartily so I could grow stronger and healthier. Her caring gestures reminded me that, despite my doubts, they saw something worthy in me. The genuine concern she showed reinforced the idea that they truly wanted me to thrive and be a part of their family.

With a small nod and a grateful smile, I mustered the courage to express my appreciation for her thoughtfulness. "Thank you, Nana," I said softly, my voice tinged with sincerity. "This food is delicious, and I'm really grateful for everything you've done for me."

Nana beamed at me, her eyes reflecting the joy of a grandmother who had just heard the sweetest words from her grandchild. "You're most welcome, dear," she replied, her voice filled with tenderness. "We're delighted to have you here with us, and we'll always take care of you."

Her words wrapped around me like a warm embrace, gradually chipping away at the walls I had built around my heart. I could sense her genuine love and sincerity, and it offered a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, I could find my place within this loving family.

"Nana, I'm already full," I said, looking at the remaining food on my plate, "but I'll finish it for you." With a determined smile, I picked up my utensils and began slowly eating the remaining bites, savoring the flavors.

Nana's loving concern immediately surfaced. She gently placed her hand on mine and said, "Don't push yourself to eat everything, dear. We don't want you to get a stomach ache and end up back in the hospital, do we?" I nodded in agreement, realizing that she had my best interests at heart.

Acknowledging her worry, I assured her, "Yes, Nana, I understand." Despite her apprehension, I couldn't help but feel a strong desire to please her, knowing how much she cared for my well-being. So, with a mix of determination and affection, I continued eating a few more morsels that she had lovingly placed on my plate, making sure not to overexert myself.

As the meal came to an end, the maids swiftly cleared the table, tidying up with efficiency and grace. With satisfied smiles and contented sighs, everyone began to disperse. Lu-lu, one of my cousins, announced that they were heading to Papa's office to discuss work-related matters. I simply shrugged my shoulders, not being directly involved in those conversations, and instead decided to seek out the twins, Seb and Liam. I want to introduce them to blaze and bullet.

As I approached the twins' room, the sound of laughter and excitement echoed through the closed door. Curiosity piqued, I quietly pushed open the door to find Liam and Noah engrossed in a video game on the computer. Their eyes were fixed on the screen, their fingers dancing across the keyboard and mouse, navigating virtual worlds with skill and precision.

Not wanting to interrupt their moment of triumph, I hesitated for a brief moment, contemplating whether I should join in or simply observe. However, my presence did not go unnoticed, as Liam turned his attention towards me, a warm smile spreading across his face.

"Sister, what are you doing here?" Liam asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity. "Do you want to play with us?"

His invitation made my heart swell with happiness, knowing that he wanted to include me in their fun. With a nod and a grateful smile, I approached them, the excitement of joining their game filling me with anticipation.

"I would love to play with you," I replied eagerly. "But how about we take a break from the computer and go to the garden? I want to introduce you to someone special."

Liam and Noah exchanged curious glances but agreed to my suggestion. We made our way to the garden, the fresh air and vibrant colors enveloping us as we stepped outside. I guided them to a secluded spot where a beautiful flower bed bloomed, its radiant petals swaying gently in the breeze.

As we reached the garden, my excitement got the best of me, and I hurriedly made my way to Blaze and Bullet's cage. I eagerly opened the door, and the two dogs bounded out, tails wagging furiously with happiness. They showered me with affectionate licks, their tongues tickling my face.

"Stop, it's tickling me," I giggled, trying to catch my breath. The twins watched me with a mix of concern and shock, worried about the dogs' behavior.

"Be careful, Doll, or they might bite you," Seb cautioned, his tone filled with genuine concern. His words stung, and a wave of sadness washed over me. It saddened me that others had a preconceived notion about Blaze and Bullet being aggressive or dangerous.

"They are not going to bite me. Look at them, they are behaving," I defended the dogs, trying to convey my trust in their gentle nature. To prove my point, I urged Blaze and Bullet to sit by my side, showing everyone that they were calm and well-behaved.

As the twins hesitantly approached, I encouraged them to pat Bullet and Blaze gently on their heads. However, as they drew near, the dogs emitted low growls, a warning sign that caught everyone off guard.

The shocked expressions on the twins' faces mirrored my own surprise. It seemed that Blaze and Bullet, in their protective instinct, were displaying their apprehension towards unfamiliar individuals approaching their human companion.

I quickly reassured the twins, "It's okay. They're just being protective. They're still getting used to new people. They won't harm you, I promise." I understood that the dogs were merely safeguarding their territory, and their behavior didn't negate their inherently kind and loving nature.

With patience and understanding, I continued to interact with Blaze and Bullet, guiding the twins on how to approach them slowly and calmly. As time passed, the dogs began to relax, realizing that the twins meant no harm. Gradually, Blaze and Bullet allowed the twins to pat their heads, building a bridge of trust between them.

"Bullet, Blaze, this is Seb and Liam. They're my new friends and cousins," I said, addressing the dogs as if they could understand my words. Although they couldn't respond verbally, their attentive expressions made it seem like they were truly listening.

To my relief, Blaze and Bullet allowed Liam and Seb to pet them, their initial wariness giving way to a growing sense of trust. The twins seemed thrilled by this small victory, their faces lighting up with joy as they interacted with the dogs.

Sebastian then suggested that we explore the garden and gather flowers to create a crown for me. The idea instantly appealed to me, as I had seen children in my old neighborhood engaging in similar activities with their friends. It seemed like a delightful and fun way to spend time together.

"Yes, let's do that!" I exclaimed, eager to join in the flower-picking adventure. The prospect of creating a crown out of beautiful blooms filled me with excitement. As we set off, I couldn't help but notice the other activities happening around the garden. Children in my old neighborhood had always been fond of playing with their toys and fearlessly climbing trees, though the latter often seemed daunting to me.

As we ventured deeper into the garden, we discovered a wide variety of flowers in vibrant hues. With each delicate blossom we plucked, our excitement grew. The fragrant petals tickled our senses, and laughter echoed through the air as we playfully tossed flowers at each other.