109 LURE OF THE BAR ARIEL’S POV This was definitely a nice moment, folks. The moment these two fabulous ladies would finally get to meet the incredible woman who brought me into this world. The one who blessed me with my stunning looks and charm. I mean, let’s be real, it’s not easy looking this good, but I definitely owe it all to my mama. I couldn’t wait for them to see where it all came from. It was going to be epic! Elizabeth and Hannah approached us with big grins on their faces. I couldn’t help but smile at how happy they were. “Hey Ariel, how’s it going?” Elizabeth asked, getting closer to me. “We heard what happened at the office?” Hannah chimed in. “Wait, you guys know about that?” I raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Of course, we’re just glad you’re okay,” Elizabeth said with concern. “Yeah, I’m glad too,” I replied, taking a seat. I knew it was time to introduce my mom to them. They needed to be friends, and I was going to be the one to make it happen. “Have you two met my mom?” I asked, gesturing to my mother. Elizabeth’s eyes widened as she turned to look at my mom. “Your mom?” She said in awe. “Wow, so this is the mother of the beautiful angel standing before us?” “Yes, I am,” my mom replied with a smile. “Well, no wonder you’re so beautiful,” Elizabeth said with a grin. My mom blushed, “Oh, you’re too kind.” “Seriously, you two are too cute,” I laughed, enjoying the interaction between my two favorite women. “How come you never told us about your mom?” Elizabeth asked, turning to me. “It’s a long story,” I said with a shrug. “Did you guys have a falling out?” She asked, raising an eyebrow. “No, not at all,” I reassured her, turning to my mom. “Anyways mom, this is *Elizabeth, the one I lived with after I left Luke. She’s an amazing woman and her son is just as amazing.” “Oh wow, you have a son?” My mom exclaimed, her face lighting up. “Yes, and he’s quite handsome,” I whispered to her, causing her to giggle. “Okay ladies, as much as I love this introduction, we do have a reason for being here,” Hannah interrupted with a smile.. “What reason?” I asked, confused. “We’re taking you to the mall!” she announced with a grin. “The mall?” I repeated with a puzzled expression. This seemed a bit extrerne. “Yes, we need to find you the perfect dress for the party tonight,” she explained. “Is that really necessary?” I questioned, wondering why they were making such a big deal out of it. “That’s what I said,” Elizabeth chimed in, rolling her eyes. “But we have to make sure you look like a goddess,” Hannah argued. “You already are a goddess,” Elizabeth said softly. “See? You don’t need a new dress,” I told her, agreeing with Elizabeth. “But it’ll be fun, trust me,” Hannah insisted. “Fine, fine. I’ll go,” I gave in, knowing I couldn’t win this argument. “Aren’t you guys supposed to be preparing for the party?” I asked, looking at Hannah. “Lisa has everything under control,” she replied with a wave of her hand. “We don’t have to worry about anything, she’s in charge.” “Well, in that case, let’s go shopping!” I said, getting up from my seat. “Finally!” Hannah cheered, grabbing my arm and pulling me towards the door. My mom just laughed, watching the three of us. “Hold on,” I said, and Hannah halted. “I need to go take a shower,” I added. She let go of my arm. “Okay then, but hurry up, okay?” I smiled at her, and advanced towards the stairs. My mom and Elizabeth were having a conversation, and it seemed like they were about to become good friends. LUKE’S POV I was seated at the lavish bar, the dim light reflecting off the polished mahogany Center Isailed the amber liquid in my glass, falding in the rich aroma of the eqensive whizbory. I had to say, today was quite a day. From the scene that happened right outside wy house, to the crap which took place at Ariel’s office, I felt so sorry seeing her In such state, and I also felt sorry for the way I talked to her, and Andre. Leould have apologized, but my pride was right here within me, making it hard for me to utter a simple sorry. That was just how I was. Well, sometimes. I could be a pochopath, a total pain in the ass. All my crazy feats I could remember. And sometimes, I just wanted to beat the hell out of myself. I remembered one time when I caught Harriet with this man. I thought he wanted. to force himself on her, so I had to beat him up But now that I had come to think of it, he wasn’t trying to violate her. She was actually cheating on me. It all made sense now, how she didn’t say anything when I gave that man hell. But no need to go deep in that. It was all in the past. I wasn’t going to lie, I did miss Harriet. The times we spent together, oh she was really an angel. Why did things have to change? Glancing around the opulent room, my eyes met those of a stunning woman at the other end of the bar. She was captivating, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. Her dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her elegant dress hugged her curves in all the right places. Her gaze lingered on me, and I couldn’t deny the magnetic pull of her beauty. However, I made it clear to myself that I was not going to be swayed by her allure. I had come to the bar for a quiet drink, seeking solace after all the bullshit. I had no interest in getting entangled in the allure of a beautiful stranger. Despite my resolve, I couldn’t help but steal glances in her direction. Her smile was enchanting, and the way she carried herself exuded confidence and grace. And before I knew it, this woman made her way over to where I was seated, She took the stool next to me, her presence filling the space with an undeniable charm “Good evening,” she greeted me, her voice smooth and alluring. I acknowledged her with a polite nod, trying to maintain my composure. I could sense her eyes on me, and I knew she was waiting for a response. “Is this seat taken?” she asked, gesturing to the empty stool beside me. “No,” I answered immediately. OF THE NAR “Are you sure?” I took a imoment, letting out a deep sigh, before responding, “Fine. It’s all yours.” She smiled, her lips curving into a knowing expression. “I couldn’t help but notice you from across the room. You seemed lost in thought.” “Just enjoying a moment of peace.” Her gaze lingered on me, her eyes holding a hint of curiosity. “It’s rare to find someone in a place like this who isn’t here for the company.” I raised an eyebrow. “I prefer the company of a good drink over anything else at the moment. She laughed immediately. “A man of discerning tastes, I see.” I felt her hand moving closer to mine. Oh gosh, this was a goddamn temptation OFRIENDS? 110 FRIENDS?
