The Love From Vengeance

396: Beyond Words

ARIEL’S POV

Luke caught me before I landed on the ground, and I found myself enveloped in his strong, reassuring embrace. Our eyes locked in a moment of pure connection, the chaos of the spilled dinner forgotten as we gazed deeply into each other’s souls.

In the fleeting instant, time seemed to stand still as the world around us faded into the background, leaving only Luke and me suspended in a silent exchange of emotions. His warm breath brushed against my cheek, sending convulsions down my spine as I tightened my grip around his neck, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat against my chest.

There was something undeniably magnetic about the way our gazes held as if we were communicating without words, sharing our hopes, fears, and dreams with nothing but the unspoken language of our hearts.

In Luke’s eyes, I saw a depth of understanding and compassion that spoke volumes, reassuring me that we would face challenges together no matter what challenges lay ahead.

The seconds ticked by, and I felt a sense of sangfroid wash over me as if I had finally found a sanctuary at the heart of the storm in Luke’s arms. I felt safe, cherished, and utterly alive, each heartbeat echoing the unspoken truth of our bond.

Luke released me from his embrace slowly, almost reluctantly, but the connection between us lingered in the air like an invisible thread binding our souls together.

Without a word, we both knew that this moment had once again stirred something between us, deepening the bond that already existed in a hundred billion ways.

So I stood there, still lost in the depths of Luke’s gaze, wondering what the future held for us. But for now, in this precious moment of silent communion, that was all I wanted.

But I eventually tore my gaze away from Luke’s, with a small smile tweaked at the corners of my lips. This moment was funny, lovely, and wonderful.

It didn’t take long before Luke slowly let go of me, and I stood upright.

“I should start going now,” I told him softly, gesturing toward the door.

“Yeah, you should.” He nodded, and I left the room with a smile on my face–yes, a face filled with joy.

Luke may have forgotten about me, but the spark and connection would still be there. Nothing would ever disappear. The lovely memories we shared would all return in just a

matter of time. And yeah, the terrible ones.

Fuck that!

****

really dark, and Janice came home with my mother. Yes, she showed up with my mom, and they were both at the door. I was glad Marcus had not fallen asleep.

see you.” She hugged me tightly, and my mother was standing behind

few days with Luke and haven’t visited the house. Janice didn’t visit the hospital since she

hope you are well all this time. And what about dad? Is he doing okay?”

woken up. He’s no

with joy.

tell him how

resting right now. He’s asleep,” I said gently, placing a hand on her shoulder. “I think

disturb him

wait until he wakes up. But

a small smile, grateful for her optimism. “Yeah, it’s a

the solemn atmosphere in the

go to sleep.

Mom, tomorrow’s Saturday.”

should still go to sleep. You need to get some rest. You’re exhausted from

I’ll just go to my room then. Let me know if

watching as she made her way upstairs.

lift off my shoulders. I didn’t know

found out that he

was more complicated

mother asked, walking

she was still

sorry, I can’t actually get what you’re saying.

something’s wrong, Ariel.”

silly face. “Nothing’s wrong. Nothing’s wrong; it’s all fine. You should get going now. Or it’s too late; you’ll have

you don’t have to pull an act in

this is

you

a disbelieving look, crossing both of her arms. And staring at her, I suspired.

This is just my… I don’t even know what to say.” I spoke

the one who gave birth to