The Love From Vengeance

369: A CLASH OF WILLS

LUKE’S POV

I took a moment to gather my thoughts, bracing myself for the conversation ahead, “Grandpa, earlier today, I found myself in a rather perplexing situation, I woke up beside a woman I didn’t recognize, leaving me with many questions.”

My grandfather regarded me with a measured gaze, his expression unreadable. “I see. And what did you make of this situation?”

“I’m not entirely sure, Grandpa. It’s all a bit of a blur. But it got me thinking about a lot of things,” I replied, choosing my words carefully.

*Such as?” he prompted, his tone neutral.

“Well, for starters, I couldn’t help but wonder why you would go to such lengths to orchestrate a situation like that,” I said, my voice tinged with curiosity.

My grandfather leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Luke, you know I have your interests at heart. Everything I do is for the betterment of our family.”

best

“But drugging me and placing a woman in my bed? That seems a bit extreme, don’t you think?” I pressed, unable to shake off my unease.

“Sometimes, drastic measures are necessary to achieve our goals,” he replied cryptically.

“And what goal would that be, exactly?” I asked, my patience wearing thin.

“Luke, I have high hopes for Ariel. She comes from a respectable family and would make a fine addition to our household,” he explained, his tone firm.

“So, this was all about Ariel?” I questioned, feeling a mixture of disbelief and frustration bubbling within

1. me.

“In part, yes. But ultimately, it’s about securingja prosperous future for you,” he clarified, his gaze unwavering. “Because with Ariel by your side, I believe you will never go astray.

I sighed, feeling the weight of his words settle on me. “I understand, Grandpa. But I can’t just go along

with

th something like this. It’s not fair to Ariel, and it’s certainly not fair to me.”

“Luke, sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the greater good. This marriage will benefit both you and Ariel, whether you see it now or not,” he stated, his voice gentle yet resolute.

it, Grandpa. But for now, I need some time

the time you need,” he

feeling of uncertainty that lingered within me, knowing that the path ahead would be fraught with difficult decisions and tough choices. But one thing was

CLASH OF

away by the tide of others‘ expectations. I had to find my own way,

the mansion, I was immediately met with a barrage

the rumors about your engagement to Ariel Walker?”

were caught in

in your future, Mr. Luke?”

one more intrusive than the last. I tried to push through the

!

at this time,” I muttered, attempting to maintain some semblance of composure as I

their persistence bordering on harassment as they

step.

moment

at least give us a hint about your relationship

suffocating under the weight of their scrutiny, my thoughts consumed by a desire to escape this suffocating circus of

all hope, a familiar voice cut

called Jack, my faithful assistant, as he pushed through the crowd

I saw his familiar face,

accepting his outstretched hand as he guided me toward the

you out of here, sir,” he said, his ice

of

expertly deflected their inquiries;

folks. No interviews today,” he said with a polite smile, his tene firm yet diplomatic, as he ushered

safety of the car.

plush leather seat, breathing a sigh of relief as we

my voice filled with gratitude as I finally felt

he replied with a reassuring

A CLASH OF WILLS

the chaotic scene, with Jack glancing at

rumors true?” he

hand through my hair as I wrestled with my thoughts. “Jack, I can’t talk about it