The Love From Vengeance

82 BITTER MEMORIES

ARIEL’S POV

“Why are you laughing? I’m only spitting facts,” I told Luke, making a puzzled face after he laughed to my recent words.

“Well, Ariel, you are spitting nonsense,” his tone was full of mockery. “You don’t have to start pretending now. One thing I finally realized, is that you don’t care for me. You don’t care about anyone in my family. You’re only concerned about your business.”

I took a deep breath. “I know why you’re saying that.”

“I know you do,” Luke responded immediately.

“It’s because of Riley, isn’t it?” I asked, and set my eyes on him. “You’re still mad at me for showing up late at her funeral.”

“Showing up late?” Luke glared at me. “Fuck that Ariel! You didn’t even show up

at all.”

“I know and I’m sorry. It’s just that I was…”

“Busy with business, am I not right?” Luke cut me off.

I sighed, being silent for a moment before I finally replied, “Yes.”

“Riley was an angel. She was so nice to you. And that’s how you repay her? Remember she died all because of you.”

“I know, and I felt guilty for that,” I vocalized, trying to find the words. “I felt guilty for not showing up. I felt guilty for not spending so much time with her, even when she wanted to. I felt guilty for so many things, Luke!”

at me in silence. I didn’t know what he was thinking at the moment, but he became hushed after I

my lips. And having no knowledge of the silence. But I knew I had to compose myself, and keep it together

expressed anger at

me. I nodded, and he turned his face

passed Luke, and you didn’t speak to me,” I carefully

didn’t want to.” Luke drank more wine. “I didn’t want to, Ariel. I just needed

alone,” I uttered underneath my breath.

his bottle of wine on the table, along with his glass. And a sigh moved

I hushedly said. “But you should have at least brought it

He broke me off. “To fix things?” Luke chuckled promptly. “You’ve started thinking too far, Ariel,

you mean?”

in your mind; the two of us dwelling together in Heaven.” Luke laughed

terrific moments all because of me. I appreciate that. And I know this is my grandfather’s promise; to treat you nice. But I have to

say now?” I aksed him

feelings can’t just unfold in my heart. And even if I’m going to fall in love, I don’t think it’s going

let’s not act like we’re actually crazy over each other. Let’s not start talking like there’s

dropped the bottle back on the table. “We’re only married. It’s what my grandfather wanted. And his wish has been fulfilled. You’re addressed as Ariel Reynold in anywhere you are, wherever you go. It’s

things to

change, Ariel?” Luke asked, sipping from

it did,” I replied, looking at him once more.”

BV BITTER MEMORIES

a little, as he had a hold of the glass of wine. “I remembered when I first saw you after five years.

his wine, and dropped the glass back on the table. “And then we had to get involved into another silly argument at