The Love From Vengeance

319: HOMECOMING

ARIEL’S POV

“Ariel, what happened? Why are you here?” Luke’s voice was filled with worry as he pulled back to study my face. “Did that woman throw you out of her house?”

Taking a deep breath, I met his gaze, my resolve firm. “I’ll explain everything, Luke. But first, we need to talk.”

“Sure,” he said, stirring closer to me. “Let’s go inside. Look at you. You’re all soaked

up.”

“Does that really matter right now?”

“It does, Ariel. You might have a fever or something.”

“You will be by my side to take care of me at all times, correct?”

Luke laughed and wrapped his arm around my shoulders, holding Janice on her shoulder as well. He led us into the warmth of the mansion, his arm never leaving my shoulders as if afraid I might vanish if he let go. Janice clung to my hand, her small face upturned, absorbing the grandeur of her new home. I couldn’t actually read her mind, but I knew she loved this so much. You could see how she didn’t hesitate when I told her that we were both leaving Laura’s house.

We settled in the living room, a crackling fire casting a soothing glow over the plush furnishings. Luke sat opposite me, his anxious gaze locked on mine, while Janice explored the room, smiling gleefully. Seeing her with such a joyful face made me joyful. However, the moment spent with Laura had been painful to some extent.

“So, Ariel, what happened?” Luke asked softly, still looking into my eyes.

“Luke,” I began, my voice steadier than I felt. “Leaving Laura’s house wasn’t just a

spur–of–the–moment decision. Things were happening that made me feel unsafe and unwelcome. It’s not just about me; it’s about Janice, too. We needed a fresh start, somewhere we could feel happier and loved.”

“Is this how that woman has always been to you?”

“No, her attitude changed.”

And I’m guessing you understand why.” Luke had one of his brows raised.

closing my eyes, before I finally revealed. “It’s

me?” He repeated.

Luke. She still considers you to be a monster, although I tried changing her

mind.”

understand that.” His tone was low.

moment, my hands

you wanted the second time. I totally understand it all.

sorry.

“You’re sorry?”

he

apologize. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

feel guilty. I’ve ruined your relationship with that

to get back to normal. Just a matter

assured him.

to understanding. “But, Ariel. Remember, I made it clear to you: this place is as much yours as it is mine,” he

glowing greatly in the darkness. Feeling overjoyed by every presence in this mansion, Janice came to sit

whispered, feeling the weight of the previous moment begins to lift. “For us, this is more than just a shelter from the storm. It’s a chance to build the life that I’ve always wanted. I remember when I had this hatred towards myself. I never expected us to be here together like this. I thought the future would be

three of us

never thought this day would come to pass.“I hated you so much back then, but I have to thank my grandfather for bringing such a wonderful woman

making this moment possible.” I smiled

gaze shifted to Janice. “We are a family,” he stated simply but with a conviction that brooked no argument. “And from now on, we’ll look out for each other. No disputes, no negativity,

I answered in a whisper, smiling at him. Then he stood up to hold my hand gently,

home, finally!” Janice came out loudly, moving her hands

would have been more lovely if Luke was here. Even though I could still feel his presence, his laughter, and his mirth, I could feel everything about him

over us, I felt a profound sense of peace settle

closer.

storm raged on, but within the walls of Luke’s mansion, a new chapter was beginning. A chapter filled with hope, love, and the promise of brighter days ahead. Together, we would build a future where the