The Love From Vengeance

374: WOES AT WORK

LUKE’S POV

I looked up to see a journalist standing before me, a determined look in her eyes no she held out n recording device, ready to capture my every word.

“Mr. Reynold, can you comment on the rumors circulating about your engagernent to Ariel Gray?” she asked, her voice insistent.

I froze, just giving her a face that showed how disgusting she was. Questions about my personal life, especially from nosy journalists, were the last thing I needed right now.

“I have no comment at this time.” I replied curtly, attempting to brush past her.

However, she persisted, stepping into my path and blocking my way. “But surely you must have something to say about the rumors? Is it true that your grandfather planned the whole thing?”

I gritted my teeth, my frustration mounting with each passing second. I had no desire to engage in a conversation with this woman, especially not about something as personal as my relationship.

“Look, I said I had no comment,” I snapped. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have important matters to attend

to.”

I maneuvered around her and continued on my way, ignoring her protests as she called out after me. I had more pressing issues to address, and the last thing I needed was to become entangled in a media

frenzy.

I reached the office building, opened the door and stepped inside. I could notice how my workers were staring at me, and they continued their whispers, which was really irritating. I didn’t want to listen to it any

further.

As I entered the office building, the whispers and stares of my workers only served to heighten my frustration. I could feel their eyes on me; their murmurs were growing louder as I passed by. It was as if they were waiting for some sort of explanation, some confirmation of the rumors that had been circulating about me.

Fed up with the speculation and gossip, I slammed my hand down on the nearest desk, causing everyone to jump and fall silent. All eyes turned to me; their gazes fixed on my furious expression.

“If anyone has a problem with me, say it to my face!” I bellowed, my voice echoing through the office. “I won’t tolerate this behind–the–back chatter any longer!”

expressions a mix of fear and uncertainty. It was clear that none of them were willing to confront me directly, preferring instead

“If none of you have

listen to your cowardice.”

turned on my heel and stormed to my

AT WORK

They didn’t deserve it, not after

even these goddamn employees were on my side. I always treated people nicely. making their place of work a paradise for them.

refused to let their opinions dictate my actions, I had made my decision and would stand by it, no matter the consequences. I firmly believed that this was the

ARIEL’S POV

sat alone at the coffee shop, and my mind raced with thoughts of the choos that had engulfed my life. I couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal that gnawed at me, knowing that my own parents had arranged this entire mess without my

I sighed, hoping that she

walk. She slid into the seat next to me,

filling with concern as she took in my troubled expression.

I’m so sorry I’m late,” she apologized breathlessly. “I got caught up in traffic. Are

grateful for her presence. “It’s okay, Tessa. I’m just glad

out and squeezed my hand, her touch offering a small measure

on? You sounded really upset on

steeling myself for the flood of emotions that threatened to consume me. “It’s my

mean?“How could they betray

events of the past few days, from the revelation of the forced marriage to my parents‘ role in orchestrating the whole debacle. As I spoke, the weight of the

betrayal cutting deep.

combination of anger and sympathy. “I can’t believe they would do something like that to

best interests at heart, but now I realize they

own

better than this, Ariel.

nodded, heeding her words. “I just don’t know what to do, Tessa.

now.”

messed

together. You’re not alone in this, Ariel. I’ll stand by you every step of the way.”