268: KISSES ARIEL’S POV Once filled with hope and joy, the heart was brimming with love. A relationship blossomed, and each day, a new chapter in the love story. There were hard dreams, whispered secrets, and a future built together. Yet, as time passed, cracks began to form in the once–unbreakable bond. Small disagreements turned into heated arguments, each word a dagger that pierced a fragile heart. I tried to mend what was broken and salvage the love once shared, but the distance only grew wider. Doubt crept in, casting shadows over the once–bright love that illuminated the world. Actions spoke louder than words, each betrayal a blow that shattered trust. The promises made in the past now feel like echoes in the wind, empty and meaningless. Held on desperately, hoping against hope that things would change and that the love that was once shared could be revived. But love, once broken, is not easily repaired. The pain of indifference cuts deeper than any physical wound, hollow and lost. It is worth questioning, and it is the very essence of love itself. How could something so beautiful turn so ugly and so destructive? I picked up the pieces of the broken heart, realizing that some wounds never truly heal. The love that was once defined now lay in ruins, a painful reminder of what once was. Mourned the loss of what should have been forever. In the aftermath of love’s destruction, a new person emerged. Scarred but resilient, he vowed never to let himself be broken in the same way again. He had been broken by love, but invaluable lessons were taught about strength, resilience, and self–worth. Though the pain of heartbreak lingered, one day, there was knowledge: to rise from the ashes of broken love, stronger and more whole than ever before. Once broken by love, it was also made unbreakable. ARIEL’S POV Luke’s intense gaze made me feel like I was under a microscope. I could see the anticipation in his eyes, waiting for me to say anything in response to what he had just quizzed me about. But I was at a loss for words. My mind was still reeling from the shocking sight–Harriet’s sh*t–that had left me speechless. I tried to gather my thoughts and form a coherent response, but I could only stare back at him, searching for words that wouldn’t come. Luke’s unwavering stare only added to the pressure, and I didn’t even know what the hell was wrong with me. I desperately wanted to say something to break the silence, but my mind was still trying to process the reality of what I had witnessed back then. “It’s….it’s…” ‘It’s who, Ariel?” “It’s Harriet.” *Harriet?” Luke raised an eyebrow. “You saw Harriet, and that’s why you’re speechless? Don’t tell. me you’re scared of her.” “You won’t understand,” I said lowly, looking in another direction. “You know what? Forget I ever said anything.” I felt Luke’s fingers reaching for my chin, and he slowly made me look at him and gaze into his ravishing eyes. Luke’s touch was gentle and reassuring, and I felt my body relax as he held my chin and looked into my eyes. His gaze was intense, but it also had a softness and understanding that made me feel safe. “Don’t worry about anything, Ariel,” Luke said softly, his voice full of sincerity. “You can tell me anything; I won’t judge you.” I let out a shaky breath and looked at him. There was no way I was going to tell him about my current situation with Harriet, even though I could see the love and support right in his eyes. “It’s just…seeing Harriet like that… it brought back a lot of memories.” “What kind of memories?” He asked. “I don’t know. I just don’t want her coming to ruin our relationship.” Luke’s expression softened even more, and he leaned in closer, his lips almost brushing against mine. “You don’t have to worry about anything,” he whispered. “But just know that I’m here for you, no matter what.” Luke’s grip on my chin tightened, his eyes never leaving mine, and the same thing happened right here. Both of us didn’t say anything. He didn’t need to. His actions spoke louder than any words ever could. He slowly moved his face closer, his lips pressed against mine. I could feel the warmth of his breath–a perfect one at the moment. “I love you, Ariel,” he whispered, and then he kissed me. Our lips moved in perfect synchronization, and I could feel all my worries and fears melting away with each touch. Not that I was actually afraid, but all shit relating to that disappeared. The stress and thinking that unfolded within me moments ago were being replaced with love and happiness. Luke’s hands roamed over my body, and I responded eagerly, my hands exploring his back and pulling him closer to me. Our kiss grew more passionate, and I could feel the heat between us rising As a result of his neck kiss, which caused shivers to run down my spine, I sighed softly, I could feet his hands moving down to my waist, and without hesitation, I brought my hands down to his groin. We were lost in each other, our bodies moving in perfect harmony as if they were made for each other. Our kiss came to an end, and we both pulled away, our foreheads resting against each other’s. We were both panting, trying to catch our breaths, but our eyes never left each other. “I love you too, Luke,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper. He smiled and kissed me once more before pulling me into a hug. All I could do was smile. “How’s Janice?” I asked him. “She’s fine.” “Has she had breakfast yet?” “No, not really.” “Then let me go prepare something for her.” But before I could even take a step towards the kitchen, Luke grabbed my arm and pulled me back to him. His strong arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me closer to him. I could feel his breath on my face once again. “Where do you think you’re going, my love?” he asked, with a smirk etched on his face. “I needed to go make breakfast for Janice,” I replied, trying to sound serious but failing as a smile crept onto my face. “Let me take care of that, my dear.” “But Janice was my responsibility,” I protested, trying to think logically. However, Luke’s touch made it difficult for me to focus on anything else. “I’ll take care of Janice, but right now, I just wanted to spend a romantic moment with you,” he whispered, his lips dangerously close to mine. I could feel my resistance crumbling as he leaned in for a kiss. Our lips met once again, and I melted into his embrace. Every kiss with Luke felt like the first one, full of passion and love. Finally breaking the kiss, I caught my breath and looked into his eyes. “I have to go to the kitchen.” “Right now?” Luke caressed my face. “Yes, so please let go of me, sir.” I grinned at him, and he did take. Luke grinned as he watched me walk towards the kitchen, a smile still playing on my lips. While I was busy cooking, he came up behind me and wrapped his arms around my waist, resting his chin on my shoulder. Act Fast: Free Bonus Time is Running Out! $
