The Love From Vengeance

399: IN SEARCH OF PEACE

ARIEL’S POV

Feeling unsettled by the nightmare and still wondering about Luke’s whereabouts, I made my way downstairs to the mansion, hoping to find some answers. As I descended the staircase, the early morning light filtered through the windows, bringing out a soft glow over the grand foyer.

Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, I heard the faint sound of laughter coming from the living room. Curious, I followed the sound and found Ethan and Randy engrossed in a video

game.

“Hey guys,

what are you up to so early in the morning?” I asked, a small smile tugging at the corners of my lips.

They glanced up at me; their faces lit up with excitement. “Morning, Ariel! We’re just playing this awesome game,” Ethan replied, setting his eyes back on the television.

“But Randy’s cheating!” Ethan protested, glaring playfully at his brother.

Randy rolled his eyes, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. “I am not! You just suck at this game, Ethan.”

I chuckled at their banter, feeling a sense of warmth wash over me. Despite the chaos and bullshit of recent events, moments like these reminded me of the simple joys of life.

“Alright, alright, calm down, you two,” I said, stepping closer to them. “Let’s settle this like civilized people. Ethan, Randy, remember the rules we talked about? No cheating, and no fighting.”

They exchanged sheepish looks before nodding in agreement. “Sorry, Ariel,” Randy mumbled, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

“It’s okay, guys. Just remember to play fair, okay?” I said, ruffling their hair affectionately.

I couldn’t help but notice Luke’s absence as I looked around the room. “Hey, have either of you seen Luke this morning?” I asked, my brows furrowing in concern.

haven’t seen him,” Ethan replied, his brow creased in confusion. “Is

he’s back,” I confirmed, feeling a pang of worry gnaw at my insides. “I just

eyes widening with anticipation.

SEA

Randy exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across

Ethan added, his eyes shining with elation.

enthusiasm. Despite everything that had happened, it was heartwarming to

said, trying to hide my own apprehension. “You should get ready

what Janice told me last

“Yep, no school today! Thanks, Ariel!” Randy blurted out, giving me a quick hug before

me a grateful smile before disappearing down the hallway. Alone in the living room once more, I

leave without telling me? The questions

of the mansion’s two maids entering the room. I turned to face them, hoping they might have some information

miss,” one of the maids greeted

morning,” I replied, returning the smile. “Have either

one of them spoke up. “Yes, he went outside a little while ago. I believe he’s near the gates with Marcus,”

in surprise. Luke had gone outside. That was unexpected. “Thank you, I said

wonder what Luke might be doing out there. Was he okay? Was he feeling overwhelmed

the horizon, seemingly lost in thought. Marcus, the gateman, stood nearby, watching

deep breath, I approached them slowly, my footsteps echoing softly on the gravel

voice running through

dyed with frustration. “I’m finding it so hard to remember anything. It’s like there’s a fog clouding my

Luke. You don’t have to stress yourself out

need to figure out the things that happened while I was still unconscious or whatever. I can’t just be a dumb piece of crap wandering around without

a clue.”

heartstrings, and I felt a surge of