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.

“Nope, we haven’t seen him,” Ethan replied, his brow

pang of worry gnaw at

boys exchanged excited looks, their eyes widening with anticipation. “Luke’s

SEA

awesome!” Randy exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face.

Ethan added, his eyes shining with elation.

to smile at their infectious enthusiasm. Despite everything that had happened, it was heartwarming to see their genuine joy at

two, let’s save the celebration for later,” I said, trying to hide my own apprehension. “You should get ready for

totally remembered what Janice told me last night.

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

in the living room once more, I let out a heavy sigh, feeling a mix of

without telling me? The questions echoed in my mind, sending

soft footsteps of the mansion’s two maids entering the room. I

the maids greeted me with a warm smile.

returning the smile. “Have either of you seen Luke

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

That was unexpected. “Thank you, I said to the maids, a mixture of curiosity and concern swirling within me.

my way outside, I couldn’t help but wonder what Luke might be doing

fixed on the horizon, seemingly lost in thought.

approached them slowly, my footsteps echoing softly on the gravel path. Luke turned to look at me as

my voice running through

it so hard to remember anything. It’s like

Luke. You don’t have to stress yourself out trying to remember everything at once. It’ll come back

my memories to come back. I need to figure out the things that happened while I was still unconscious or whatever. I

a clue.”

at my heartstrings, and I felt a surge of sympathy for him.