The Wrong Girl — Episode 6

Then she got the look she wanted. She put a hand on her father's arm. Fine. But saying sorry isn't enough. Tomorrow, you get on your knees in front of the school and you stay down until I say stop. Then I won't call the cops.

Fine. I closed my fist and agreed to all of it. Humiliation burned, but it was worth it. They didn't touch my father's. That's all that mattered. That night, I pulled the ball cap low and went back to the apartment Papa Leo rents for me. The kitchen light was on. Three men were in there cooking. Papa Gio, Papa Nico, Papa

They came at me the second the door opened. Emma's home! So I hear there's an awards thing at your school. Why can't I go get it? It's my turn.

Papa Nico started working my shoulders. Your turn, Hel. It's mine. Papa Luca pushed a bowl at me. Try this. Good for the brain. Get into a good school.

My nose stung. I made myself smile. It's a little certificate. Not worth the trip. Next time I win something big, you can all come. Fine, fine. Eat.

They filled my plate. Then Papa Gio's face changed, and he stood up to take a call. I caught pieces of it. That shipment. They're watching it again.

Damn, this money's hard to make. Something in my chest twisted. If they got caught, they'd rot behind bars for the rest of their lives. I put my fork down and took a breath.

Dads, we need to talk. They froze. I'm grown up now. I'll graduate top of Volante Royal Academy and take care of you.

So, could you stop doing that kind of work?