The Love From Vengeance

233: RETORTS

ARIEL’S POV

I tiptoed into Janice’s bedroom, careful not to wake her up. She looked so

peaceful, her chest rising and falling gently as she slept. I couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her.

I had gone to the bookstore early this morning to pick up some books for her. Last night, she had been begging me for the latest bestseller, and I couldn’t resist spoiling her. Just when I placed the books on her nightstand, I saw her stir and slowly open her eyes.

“Mom?” She mumbled sleepily, rubbing her eyes.

“Good morning, sweetheart,” I said, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. “Time to wake up.”

She groaned and buried her face in her pillow. “Already? Can’t I sleep for five more minutes?”

I chuckled and sat down on the edge of her bed. “Nope. You have a full day ahead of you. And besides, I have a surprise for you.”

Her eyes widened with excitement. “Really? What is it?”

I handed her the books, and her face lit up. “Oh my gosh, thank you, Mom!” She exclaimed, giving me a quick peck on the lips. “You’re the best.”

I smiled and ruffled her hair. “Anything for my little bookworm. Now, get up and get ready. We’re going out today.”

She sat up and stretched, yawning. “Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise,” I said, winking at her.

She rolled her eyes playfully. “Fine. I’ll get ready. But I’m not taking a bath.”

I raised an eyebrow at her. “And why not?”

“Because I took one last night.” She shrugged.

I couldn’t help but laugh at her antics. “Nice try, but you still need to take a bath. We don’t want you going out smelling like a skunk.”

amusement in her eyes. “Fine, fine. I’ll take a

shower. After that, I picked up one of the books I had bought

of my personal favorites. I sufled to myself, knowing that

knock on the door. I looked

smile. “Is

shook my head, “No, thank you. I can handle it. But thanks

back to me. “Oh, I almost forgot. Mrs. Janice’s breakfast is

But I think Janice is still in the shower. I’ll take the breakfast up to her when she’s

and left the room, again leaving me to

LUKE’S POV

out of here!” I snapped at my great–aunt. Enough is enough! I was sick and tired of her irritating presence. Right now, I just wanted her to get the hell out of my

rude, aren’t you?”

one asking you

this low. Come on,

crazy,

I never

just popped out of nowhere, saying she wants to take the wealth of

really changed, haven’t

You just

And trust me, I’m going to change you in

but you’re not going to do any shit.”

wow. You know what, Luke? Step out of the way.”

if I don’t? What are you going to do about

the hell did you get the nerve?”

that. You were like my grandfather’s best friend, that’s correct. But

If you’ve come to this house to live with me, then you better behave yourself. Live in peace, and I don’t want any trouble,

was quick to seize her hand. “You already did this. Not again.” I shoved

listen to

This is my house and everything I have here; I work day and night for it. I suggest you show some respect, not just to me, but

to care for me, so why should I care

he care for you?”

didn’t