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!”

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

I stared at him back, looking into his eyes, with no words escaping my lips. And having no knowledge of the silence. But I knew I had to compose myself, and keep it together at the moment. For

be the option, and an expressed anger at him would never make things. work out.

softly, his eyes still fixed on me. I nodded, and

Luke, and you didn’t

didn’t want to, Ariel. I just needed some time alone.”

you needed some time alone,” I uttered underneath my breath. “But you were angry with me, weren’t you?”

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

have at least

fix things?” Luke chuckled promptly. “You’ve started thinking too far, Ariel, haven’t

you mean?” I slowly

your mind; the two of us dwelling together

gone through 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, Ariel, the feeling is, just not

to say now?” I aksed him softly.

with you. The feelings can’t just unfold in my heart. And even if I’m going to fall in

me. So please, let’s

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 actually a good thing. That can at least bring a smile

deeply, looking downwards. “And by that, you want things to go back to the way it

ever change, Ariel?” Luke asked, sipping

it did,” I replied, looking at him

BV BITTER MEMORIES

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

table. “And then we had to get involved into another silly argument at the forest, where we met Foster. It still didn’t make any sense. And yes, I also regret exchanging words with you