“Yeah,” he says, then asks, “Where do you go to school?”

“You already know that. Don’t think I haven’t noticed the men in suits who just happen to be everywhere I am.” I’ve seen them. I told my dad, and he told me they’re De Bellis men and to just ignore them. Easier said than done.

“Well, it’s always better to hear it from the source.” Vin shrugs.

“You know, when I was little, I always wanted siblings,” I muse. “Now, I realise how lucky I was not having any.”

“It’s not that bad. We’re not that bad, and having siblings is like knowing you’ll never be alone. They’re always there for you, no matter what,” he says.

“Maybe. But I don’t need anyone to take care of me. I can take care of myself.”

“I bet.” He chuckles.

“I could have you on your ass in seconds. Wanna try?” I offer.

“No.” Vin shakes his head.

“Pity. Would have been fun.” I smile at him.

“You’re a little crazy, you know that?”

“I know. It’s the best way to be,” I say.

“Yeah, it is.”

“So, why is everyone so scared of you guys? I don’t get it. You don’t seem that scary.” There are rumours all over town, everyone talking about the big bad De Bellis brothers and how ruthless they are. But I’ve just had dinner with them, and they don’t bother me none.

“You will never find out. We don’t hurt little girls.” Vin smirks at me.

“Who you calling a little girl?” I snarl at him. “I am not a little girl.”

“If you say so.” He laughs and pushes to his feet. “I think this big brother thing isn’t as bad as I thought it’d be,” he comments as he holds out a hand to me.

“Shut up.” I push his arm aside.

“It’s dessert time. Aria always says it’s the best part of the meal. And she’s right. You do not want to miss the dessert,” Vin says.

I follow him back into the house, and everyone stops talking and starts staring at us. “What?”

“You supply her with weed again, and I’ll make sure your supply is cut off forever,” Gio snaps.

I turn to Vin. “Wait? You have weed? And you didn’t tell me? Rude.”

“I’m not a sharer.” He shrugs.

“Siblings are meant to share,” I counter as I reclaim my seat at the dinner table. My mum and dad are still staring at me. I had one puff. It’s not a big fucking deal.

“Okay, dessert. Let’s eat cake!” Aria calls out. She seems a little preppy and uptight, but I think I like her. She has kind eyes.

“I’ll be back.” Cammi stands, and Vin follows her.

“Is she okay?” I ask, watching them go.