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I exhaled, grateful for Paulie's timely intervention. David hesitated, shooting one last glare at Nicholas before storming out of the room with Paulie following closely behind. As the door closed, I felt the weight of the world settle upon my shoulders. The reality of the situation was settling in – my father was gone, and now we were left to navigate this terrifying, uncertain future.
"Are you all right?" Nicholas asked, his voice gentle as he moved closer.
I nodded, though my heart ached with worry for David. I couldn't shake the image of him, vulnerable and alone, grappling with the realization that everything had changed. Was he strong enough to face this new world?
"I didn't think David would react so badly," Nicholas confessed, remorse filling his eyes. "If I'd known, I would have told you both separately."
"David's always been impulsive and emotional," I admitted, wringing my hands together. "I'm just worried about him, especially now that he's drinking again."
"Paulie will keep an eye on him," Nicholas reassured me. "I briefed him earlier to make sure David stays safe until he sobers up."
I let out a sigh of relief, grateful for the thoughtfulness Nicholas had shown in ensuring David's safety. As much as my brother infuriated me at times, I couldn't bear the thought of anything happening to him.
"Come sit with me," Nicholas said softly, guiding me towards the couch. We settled down amid the plush cushions, the Christmas tree before us casting a warm glow across the room. Despite the turmoil of the evening, I couldn't help but be captivated by its beauty.
"Your tree is stunning," Nicholas said, following my gaze. His hand found mine, interlacing our fingers comfortingly. "The decorations throughout the house are beautiful too."
"Thank you," I replied, touched by his appreciation. Though the holiday season had been marred by tragedy and tension, I'd poured my heart into creating a festive atmosphere for our family. Hearing Nicholas's praise brought a flicker of warmth to my chest.
Just then, Gina appeared, bearing a tray laden with cups of eggnog. She set it down on the coffee table before us, her eyes filled with concern. "I thought you both could use something to help calm your nerves," she explained quietly before retreating from the room.
"Thank you, Gina," I called after her, surprised how quickly news traveled in the house. Nicholas picked up two cups, handing one to me. As we sipped the rich, velvety eggnog, I felt a measure of peace begin to settle over me.
The next morning, I awoke with the first light of dawn filtering through the curtains. Despite the heaviness in my heart, I couldn't shake the anticipation of Abby's excitement over her Christmas presents. I glanced at Nicholas, still sleeping soundly beside me, and gently nudged him awake.
"Nicholas," I whispered, "we should get up. Abby will be wanting to open her presents."
He stirred, rubbing the sleep from his eyes before offering me a small smile. "You're right. Let's not keep her waiting."
We both climbed out of bed and slipped into matching cheezy Christmas pajamas – a tradition I'd insisted upon to bring some levity to the holiday festivities. Hand in hand, we made our way downstairs to the living room.
As expected, Abby and Jocelyn were already there, their eyes wide with wonder as they took in the array of presents nestled beneath the tree. The room was filled with the scent of fresh pine and the soft glow of fairy lights, casting a magical ambiance over the scene.
"Merry Christmas!" I called out cheerfully, and they turned towards us with matching grins.
"Morning, Miss Liliana, Mr. Nicholas!" Abby replied, practically vibrating with excitement. "Can I open my presents now?"
"Of course, sweetheart," Jocelyn responded, her eyes brimming with gratitude for the newfound safety and love that surrounded her and her daughter.
Just then, Gina arrived, carrying a tray with steaming cups of coffee and an assortment of pastries. "I thought you might like something to tide you over until breakfast," she said with a smile.
"Thank you, Gina. You're always so thoughtful," I replied, gratefully accepting a cup of coffee.
"Buon Natale, everyone," Sophia chimed in as she joined us, looking refreshed and radiant.
"Buon Natale!" we echoed, hugging one another and exchanging heartfelt wishes for a merry Christmas.
"Alright, little angel, let's get started," Nicholas said warmly as he began to hand out the gifts, most of which were for Abby. He took pleasure in her delight, their bond undeniable and heartwarming.
"Your turn, cara mia," I said softly, extending a carefully wrapped gift towards Nicholas. My eyes searched his face for any hint of vulnerability or emotion as he took the present from me. With an enigmatic smile, he slowly undid the wrapping, revealing a bottle of shockingly expensive coconut brandy.
"Coconut brandy? I only mentioned wanting to try this once. I can't believe you remembered that," he said, surprise and appreciation blending together on his handsome face.
"Of course I did," I replied, my voice thick with affection. "It's important to me that you have the things you want."
He grinned wolfishly at me. "I already have it all, but thank you, Liliana," he said, his gaze locked onto mine, his voice conveying more than words ever could.
"Here, Abby," Nicholas said, handing her another present. The child eagerly tore into the wrapping paper, squealing with delight upon discovering the contents. The joy in her eyes was contagious, spreading warmth through the room and providing a welcome break from the sinister undertones that often tainted our lives.
