Chapter 24

Ivan has been spending more time at work lately. I guess he’s trying to sort through his father’s affairs. I don’t miss having him here, obviously. When he’s not around, I get a little of my freedom back. Today, Valentino invited me to walk in the garden with him. I told him that Ivan wouldn’t approve but he proudly responded that when Ivan wasn’t around, he was the chief. I find it really cute actually but I know that he wouldn’t be so smug if his older brother was literally standing in front of him. I intertwine my arm with his as we walk down a stony path. I see Hector watching us from afar. He doesn’t seem too pleased with this. “I haven’t been outside in a while.” I murmur, more to myself. The weather isn’t so great right now. It’s cold and cloudy but sometimes, the sun will shine for a few seconds and disappear again. Those few seconds of warmth are still very agreeable to me and so is the feeling of cold wind blowing on my face. Valentino offers me a sad smile. “I will tell Ivan