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.

their heads. “Nope, we haven’t seen him,” Ethan

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

exchanged excited looks, their eyes widening

SEA

a wide grin spreading across his

missed him,” Ethan added, his eyes shining

that had happened, it was heartwarming to see their genuine joy at Luke’s return.

later,” I said, trying to hide my own apprehension. “You

totally remembered what Janice told me

eagerly. “Yep, no school today! Thanks, Ariel!” Randy blurted out, giving me a quick hug before rushing off to his

down the hallway. Alone in the living room once more, I let out

Why did he leave without telling me? The questions echoed in my mind, sending a wave of anxiety coursing through

my thoughts, I heard the soft footsteps of the mansion’s two maids entering the room. I turned

one of the maids greeted me

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

glance before one of them spoke up. “Yes, he went outside a little while

furrowed my brows in surprise. Luke had gone outside. That was unexpected. “Thank you, I said to the maids, a mixture of curiosity and concern swirling within

I made my way outside, I couldn’t help but wonder what Luke might be doing out there. Was he okay? Was

his gaze fixed on the horizon, seemingly lost in thought. Marcus, the gateman,

echoing softly on the gravel path. Luke turned to

my voice running through with concern.

it so hard to remember

have to stress yourself out trying to remember everything at

I need to

a clue.”

words tugged at my heartstrings, and I felt a

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255