361: DIAMONDS AND DECLARATIONS 361: DIAMONDS AND DECLARATIONS LUKE’S POV I hugged Harriet tightly, feeling overwhelmed with love and joy. This was the perfect way to show her how much she meant to me. And seeing her so happy made it all worth it “You’ll go to the party with me, right?” I grinned at her. “Absolutely, Luke,” Harriet said with a smile. “I’d love to go to the party with you.” My smile continued, as I was feeling a rush of happiness flood through me. “That’s fantastic, Harriet. You’ll be the most stunning one there.” The both of us stood there, relishing the joy of our moment. I realized there was something else I wanted to share with her, something that would make the evening even more special, Taking a deep breath, I looked into her eyes. “Harriet, there’s something I want to tell you,” I began, and she gave me all of her attention. “At the party, you’ll get to meet my grandfather.” Her eyes widened in surprise. “Your grandfather?” I nodded, smiling at her. “Yes, I think it’s time I let him know about the woman who has captured my heart.” Harriet’s smile grew even wider, and she squeezed my hand affectionately. “I’d love to meet him, Luke. Thank you for inviting me.” Mirth flooded through me, and I felt grateful for Harriet’s understanding and willingness to be a part of my life. “You’re welcome, Harriet. He’s going to adore you; I just know it.” With that settled, we continued browsing through the jewelry store, savoring the anticipation of the evening ahead. And as I looked at Harriet, who was filled with intense happiness, I knew that tonight would be a memory we would cherish forever. After leaving the jewelry shop, a disheveled man approached us, holding out a cup and asking for spare change. Harriet nudged me and whispered, “We shouldn’t give him any money, Luke. He might use it for drugs or alcohol.” I paused, contemplating her words. It was a valid concern, but I knew I was going to feel a sense of guilt at the thought of turning away someone in need. “I understand your concern, Harriet. But what if he really needs the money for food or 361: DIAMONDS AND DECLARATIONS shelter?” Harriet sighed, but she didn’t argue further. She knew how compassionate I could be, and she respected my decision. I reached into my pocket and pulled out some spare change, handing it to the man. “Thank you, sir,” he said with genuine gratitude, his eyes lighting up with surprise and relief. “You’re welcome,” I replied with a smile. “Is there anything else you need? A meal, perhaps? The man’s eyes widened in disbelief, and he shook his head. “No, sir. This is more than enough. Thank you.” Harriet looked at me with admiration. I could see it all in her eyes. She had to discern that I had a big heart, and she loved me for it. In a case like this, I couldn’t just walk out on such a man. It wouldn’t make sense one bit, and it would be defined as cruelty. When the both of us started to walk away, the man called out to us. “Wait, sir. Can I ask you a question?” I turned back to him, curious. “Of course, what is it?” He hesitated for a moment before speaking. “Why did you stop to help me? Most people just ignore me or walk away.” I looked at him with sincerity. “Because I believe that every person deserves kindness and compassion, no matter their circumstances. “And if I can make a small difference in someone’s life, even in the slightest way, then I will do it.” The man’s eyes welled up with tears, and he thanked us again before we parted ways. Harriet looked at me with a soft smile. “You never cease to amaze me, Luke,” she said, wrapping her arms around me. “You have such a wonderful heart. You’re different from other men. You’re so kind.” I hugged her back. “And I am grateful to have you.” “So, where are you taking me?” she asked. “Well, it’s a surprise,” I answered with a mischievous grin. Harriet rolled her eyes playfully. “You and your surprises.“I hope it’s not something too extravagant.” 361: DIAMONDS AND DECLARATIONS I laughed and held her hand as we walked towards the golden hotel that I had booked for the evening. It was a beautiful five–star hotel with grand chandeliers and elegant decor. Harriet’s eyes widened in surprise and awe as we entered the lobby. “Luke, this is amazing!” she said, looking around in wonder. “Just wait until you see our room,” I said, leading her towards the elevators. The two of us entered our luxurious suite, and Harriet’s jaw dropped at the stunning view of the city skyline. I had arranged for a romantic candlelit dinner on the balcony, with rose petals scattered all around and soft music playing in the background. “Luke, this is the most beautiful thing anyone has ever done for me.” I pulled her into a hug, feeling overwhelmed with love for this woman. “You deserve nothing but the best, Harriet. You mean everything to me.” We spent the rest of the day talking and laughing, enjoying the delicious food and each other’s company. ARIEL’S POV I sat in my room, looking at myself in the mirror, while the makeup artists were doing their job, applying makeup to my face. The night was fast approaching, and the party would commence a few hours from now. This party was going to be a great one, thrown by The Reynolds, to celebrate their partnership with our company. At least they were going to help us rise again. But the connection was just too fast. Everything happened so fast, and I kept on wondering how. My father and Sir Reynold were not friends one bit. But now, both of them seemed to like each other very much, which was still surprising in some way. My mother stepped into the room, walking closer to me. “I am certain that you will be the most beautiful individual at this party.” As my mother’s words echoed in my mind, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of nerves. The pressure to impress weighed heavily on me, especially knowing how much was riding on this partnership for our company’s future. I forced a smile. “Thanks, Mom. I just hope I can live up to everyone’s expectations.” She reached out and gently squeezed my hand, her eyes filled with reassurance. “You’ve always had a knack for handling these situations with grace and charm, Ariel. Just be yourself, and everything will fall into place.” 361: DIAMONDS AND DECLARATIONS Her words were comforting, but they did little to quell the butterflies fluttering in my stomach. I took a deep breath, trying to center myself and push aside any doubts. Tonight was not just about me; it was about our company’s success and my family’s legacy. The makeup artists finished their work, and then I looked at my reflection in the mirror, taking in the carefully applied makeup and elegant hairstyle. I hoped it was “irror, a good impression on the Reynolds and their esteemed guests. to make With a final glance at myself, I stood up from the vanity, steeling myself for the evening ahead. It was time to step into the spotlight and play my part in securing our future. *
