UNGRATEFUL
While you’re the reason I have no family, don’t forget you have one.
Your sister came by the house today. She’s an amazing woman, not only because of what she’s overcome and how she did so, but also because of how infectious her smile and good mood are. She finished her first year at Lyon National High Conservatory of Dance and Music despite her blindness. I can’t help but admire her. Honestly, I’d argue she’s too good to have you as a brother, but sadly, we can’t help who our family is, can we?
We ended up talking for quite a while. Despite you, I really like her. You’re lucky to still have her.
I’d do anything to have Noah with me again. Just to see him one more time, I’d sacrifice anything. But what do you do? Here she is, coming to visit you after flying overseas, and you refuse to see her. There’s no other word to describe you but ungrateful.
I’ve heard you worked hard to find her when she was missing, so I know that you care about her. I’ve heard you haven’t seen each other in nearly two years now. What does avoiding her get you?
I’ll tell you. Absolutely N-O-T-H-I-N-G. Hope that makes it clear. So what if you’re imprisoned? Does that change who you are? Do you really believe she’ll think of you as less than? Godknows why that woman looks up to you, but she really, really does.
So get over your pride. It doesn’t make you less of a man to be behind bars. It does make you less of a brother to avoid the family you have.
P.S. She misses you.
DearPiccola Peste,
You will be satisfied to learn I met with Persetta before she returned to France. Your meddling was, unfortunately, appreciated. As a thank you, I have instructed Tore to buy a car for your use since you turned sixteen a couple of months ago. Of course, considering your experience with cars, I think a second-hand vehicle should be more than satisfactory, should you exert more pyrotechnics in your free time.
Happy late birthday, Ms. Burch, and thank you for your sage advice.
Sincerely,
Renzo Iannelli
ENIGMATIC
Over the last year and a half, I’ve asked Tore several times about the incident with your car. See, I’ve realized after living in Tore’s house that certain things aren’t common practice in this business. He’s always been very vague about what should have happened following my little car fire mishap, but I’ve understood that the consequences you gave me were extremely light.
But why? Did you feel like you owed me something because of my brother? Was it because you hoped to create a debt between us? And if that, why? I can’t find any other possible reasons, and it’s driving me crazy.
In other news, I’m kind of going stir crazy with being cramped up in this safe house. Boyan’s now six, and the kid has to run laps inside the house to burn off his excess energy. It’s exhausting trying to keep up with him. And then there’s Lou, who has been practicing cornrow braids on my hair to get it right on hers. My head is not made for that. It feels like she’s tugging it out at the roots. Tore keeps moving us around every week ever since the last guppy pest infestation. There also seems to be some trouble from someone from Las Vegas, who’s upset because you went back on a deal. And apparently, there have been some problems with some southern gangs—ask Tore for more deets when you see him next—I put all my best spying into that. Anyway, all that means is Tore doesn’t feel his house is secure enough right now for us. So, we’re playing hot potato with houses and apartments.
Keeping up on our schoolwork has been particularly difficult, considering he confiscated all phones inside and limited Wi-fi usage. So far, my teachers have been understanding of whatever lie Tore told them, but I’m afraid if this keeps up, passing my winter finals might be an issue, especially with all the studying needed in my AP classes. Hopefully, pest control will handle the issue soon.
By the way, when you see Uncle Vinny next, please tell him that he needs more rest. Otherwise, he won’t recover quickly from the Greek beetle bite. I’m sure you understand.
Take care of yourself.
Until next time.
Dear Ms. Burch,
It is always best to be owed a debt. It is a form of power and control, as is gratitude. I’m sure you understand.
Have you given a thought about your future? What are your plans?
I understand your dilemma more than you know. I have found that increased exercise and learning new skills help combat stir-craziness. Believe it or not, I have been practicing vocational skills such as plumbing and cooking. It has helped my cabin fever. Whether or not I am any good is up for debate. Might I suggest something similar for yourself?
In regards to the pest issue, Tore should have tried to fumigate. Smoking as many of the insects out as quickly as possible will take care of the immediate problem and allow for better planning. I advised Vinny of this during his visit yesterday. He also promised to take better care of his shoulder. Without your suggestion, he would have continued to hide his injury.
Sincerely,
Renzo Iannelli
Dear Diary,
