The Love From Vengeance

911: BEEN LONG

ARIEL’S POV

I stepped out of my car, and the imposing structure of Andre’s company loomed overhead, its sleek glass façade reflecting the morning sunlight. I took a moment to admire the modern architecture before making my way towards the entrance.

After all, it had been kind of long since I got here. The Vitality Group still looked good, and I was glad everything was going well. It was nice to know about this and see how things were going great. I couldn’t be happier.

The automatic doors swooshed open, and I stepped into the spacious lobby, taking in the polished floors and minimalist décor. My eyes scanned the area, searching for any familiar faces amidst the bustling activity of employees going about their day.

Suddenly, a voice called out my name, and I turned to see Hannah rushing towards me with open arms. “Ariel!” she exclaimed, enveloping me in a warm hug. “It’s been so long; I’ve missed you!”

Returning her embrace, I couldn’t help but smile at the genuine affection in her voice. “I’ve missed you too, Hannah,” I replied, feeling quite great to be in her presence. Nostalgia or whatever, let’s just say it was washing over me. Yeah, pretty much.

“I’m so glad you’re back, Ariel. Honestly, without you, things felt a little bit different.”

“Oh great. Thanks; I feel so special, I guess.”

“Of course, Ariel. You are special.”

We pulled away from each other, and I took the opportunity to glance around the lobby once more. “How’s everything going with the business?” I asked, genuinely

curious about Hannah’s success.

She beamed with pride. “It’s going great, Ariel. Been doing great with all kinds of projects, making things work out with the business deals. And yes, with all these, I

have been elevated to higher heights in the business.”

I smiled, genuinely happy for her. “That’s wonderful to hear. You’ve always had such

a knack for entrepreneurship. And you totally deserve everything. I feel so happy for

911. BEEN LONG

you.”

Hannah’s smile widened at the compliment. “Thank you, Ariel. But enough about me,

she said, linking her arm with mine. “Let’s go somewhere quieter where we can catch up properly.”

I chuckled softly, appreciating her thoughtfulness. “As much as I’d love to, Hannah,

here to see Andre,” I confessed, my gaze drifting towards

He’s been looking forward to seeing you since he left

let him know you’re

a grateful nod, I watched as Hannah made her way toward the elevator bank, leaving

approached me. Someone I knew was really crazy about the things she did–jus–justway of beingbeing

widely opened. “Oh

It’s been ages since I

staring at her because I knew what I was signing up for. “Hey,

a while. I’ve

was traversing a glittering field atop a unicorn when all of a sudden, I

that was sort of a puzzle, I’d say. “Um, that sounds…

She cut me off. “Can you. imagine dancing with little green men? Oh, it

sounds like quite the

snapped her fingers/continuing with her nonsense. “Oh, sorry, I’m rambling again, aren’t I? I just get so excited to see you! Hey, let’s take

commemorate this moment!”

Gwen had already whipped out her phone and pulled me

a selfie.

her mouth really

other option but to force a smile.

go of me.

Is there any juicy

trying to make her understand that I was not in the middle

need to catch up with

of course, of course! I won’t keep you any longer. But hey, let’s grab lunch

good.” Fake smile, but I needed

the moment.

“Yeah, but…”

have work to do, and I have someone to see.” I gently

hands on Gwen’s shoulders and began to

I still have other things to talk about. Those scenes just came back to

head, and trust me,

are,” I said sarcastically, still pushing her away. “Well,

It was great

be a stranger, Ariel! Catch you later, alligator!”

chuckled. “In a while, crocodile.”

breaking free, I made a swift exit towards the elevators, relieved to escape.

But as I stood there, Hannah advanced toward me.