The Love From Vengeance

189: MEMORIES: PERFECT TALES

ARIEL’S POV

[FLASHBACK CONTINUES]

Waking up to the sound of seagulls and the gentle rustling of palm trees outside my window, I saw my two children, Lukel and Janice, still sound asleep in their beds. Today was the day I had promised to take them to the beach, and I couldn’t wait to see the joy on their faces. After a quick breakfast of pancakes and fresh fruit, I hurried to get everything ready, packing beach towels, sunscreen, snacks, and toys into a large beach bag. Lukel and Janice were already bouncing with excitement as they put on their swimsuits and sandals.

On our way to the beach, Lukel and Janice chattered excitedly about building sandcastles and splashing in the waves. I couldn’t help but smile at their enthusiasm. I loved these moments—just the three of us exploring and having adventures together. When we arrived at the beach, Lukel and Janice’s eyes widened in wonder at the vast expanse of sand and sparkling blue water. They ran towards the shoreline, giggling and shouting with joy. I spread out our towels and set up a small umbrella to provide some shade.

The children wasted no time in kicking off their sandals and running towards the water. Lukel was the first to dip his toes in, squealing with delight as the cool water splashed against his skin. Janice followed suit, her laughter blending with the sound of the waves. Watching them with a heart full of love and seeing my children so happy and carefree filled me with a deep sense of contentment. I joined them in the water, the three of us laughing and splashing each other as the waves rolled in.

After a while, we decided to build a sandcastle. Lukel took charge of digging a moat around our creation, while Janice fashioned seashells into decorations. I helped them pile the sand high, shaping turrets and walls with my hands. The children’s faces were alight with concentration and joy as we worked together.

And as the morning turned into the afternoon, we enjoyed a picnic lunch on the beach. Lukel and

Janice devoured their sandwiches and fruit, their cheeks rosy from the sun. I watched them with a smile, grateful for these simple moments of happiness. After lunch, we went for a walk along the shore, collecting seashells and watching as seabirds soared overhead. Lukel and Janice held my hands as we strolled, their chatter blending with the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

I made it clear to them that it was finally time for Lukel, and Janice protested, begging for just a few more minutes in the water. I relented, allowing them to splash and play for a little while longer.

We packed up our things and started the journey home. Lukel and Janice chattered excitedly about their day at the beach. I smiled as I listened, my heart full of love for my two precious children. Today had been a perfect day, filled with laughter, sunshine, and the simple joy of being together. Walking hand in hand towards our car, two men stopped at our front and pointed their guns at us.

I froze in fear as the two men pointed their guns at us, demanding that I hand over all of our belongings. My mind raced as I tried to think of a way to protect Lukel and Janice. I couldn’t let

189: MEMORIES: PERFECT TALES

to them.

want and leave us alone,” I pleaded,

going to go down without a fight. They stood bravely

Janice exclaimed,

laughed, thinking it was just a game. But I knew my children were serious. It was quite clear with

be heard coming from behind them.

put your hands up!” one

and put their hands up in surrender.

They were my little heroes. They

and we were left alone on the beach. I sat down on the sand,

did it, Mommy!” Lukel exclaimed, giving me

ruffled their hair. “Yes, you did.

sat there, I couldn’t help but think about how lucky we were. If we hadn’t stayed for those few extra minutes at the

my two brave children. They had shown me that even in the face of danger, they would never back down and would always protect their family. And in that moment, I made a promise to always

setting behind us. It was a perfect end

night, and I decided to take Lukel and Janice out for dinner. And of course,

looked around. “Wow, mom,

But not as beautiful as you.” He laughed at

for us as he led us to

PERFECT TALES

menu, trying to decide what to order.