Bound By Power

25

Lorenzo pulled back slightly, looking into her tear-filled eyes. “I know, Mom,” he said with a small nod. “We’ve already talked about it. He’s going to Naples to continue his studies, and I’ll stay here. For at least three years, we’ll keep our distance and focus on ourselves. He wants to finish his studies, and I want him to have that freedom.”

Maria studied her son’s face, seeing the determination in his eyes. “This won’t be easy,” she said, her hand cupping his cheek. “But trust me, Lorrie, it will be worth it.”

A faint smile broke across Lorenzo’s face. “I hope so, Mom,” he said, his voice soft.

Maria’s smile widened as she rested her forehead against his for a brief moment. “If anyone can make it work, it’s you two.”

As the morning light bathed the room in a golden glow, mother and son sat together, bound by their love and the quiet strength of understanding.
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Elena sat cross-legged on the plush velvet couch in her elegantly decorated room. The sunlight filtered through the pale pink curtains, casting a soft glow over  the shelf of books neatly arranged beside her. She turned her attention to Julian, who sat beside her, nervously fidgeting with the hem of his sweater.

"Now," Elena said, leaning forward and narrowing her eyes, “tell me what’s happening between you and Lorenzo. You do know he’s a playboy, right?”

Julian sighed, leaning back against the couch, his shoulders tense. “I know,” he admitted, avoiding her gaze. “I know he used to be a playboy.”

Elena raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. “Used to be? Julian, I’ve got all day. Your brother-in-law is at the office for some important meeting, and Lorenzo’s probably with Maria Mom spilling his version of the story. Now, it’s your turn. Spill everything.”

Julian hesitated for a moment before exhaling deeply. “Okay, fine,” he said, running a hand through his dark, slightly curly hair.

Elena leaned closer, her curiosity evident.

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*FLASHBACK*
{ This flashback continuation from chapter 17 from Julian and Lorenzo's storyline}

A few months ago…

Julian stormed into his bedroom, his schoolbag slipping from his shoulder and landing with a dull thud on the bed. His chest heaved as he tried to suppress the emotions bubbling inside him.

Enzo followed him in, closing the door softly behind them.

“Julie, relax,” Enzo said gently, his voice calm and soothing as he leaned against the wall.

Julian spun around to face him, his frustration clear. “How, Enzo? How?” His voice cracked as he gestured toward the door. “He’s here! In front of me! Didn’t you hear Dad? He’s going to live here until his work is done!”

Enzo’s expression softened as he walked toward his brother, placing a hand on Julian’s shoulder. “Julie, he’s just here for work,” he said carefully.

Julian let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head as tears welled up in his eyes. “Yeah, but I’m going to see him every day. Every damn day, Enzo! And every time I do, it’ll remind me of how my first love turned out to be…” His voice broke, and he quickly wiped at his face. “…turned out to be unrequited.”

A tear slipped down his cheek, and he turned away, staring at the soft beige curtains fluttering in the breeze from the slightly open window.

“Julie…” Enzo whispered, his heart breaking at the sight of his twin in so much pain. He stepped forward, wrapping his arms around Julian in a tight hug.