352: LINE IN THE SAND ARIEL’S POV Larry approached us, and I quickly scrambled to my feet, brushing off the dirt from my clothes. His expression was a mix of concern and irritation as he looked between me and his family. “Ariel, what’s going on here?” He asked, his tone edged with a hint of frustration. I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts before launching into an explanation. “Your brother and parents are trying to intimidate me into backing down from exposing the truth about what they’ve done to my family’s business,” I began, my voice steady despite the lingering ache from Simon’s shove. Larry’s eyebrows furrowed, his gaze flickering to his family before settling back on me. What truth? What have they done?” “They used their power to ruin my family’s business, all because they’re trying to support hat scumbag right there. A scumbag who doesn’t deserve respect. Simon tried to assault me, but my family saved me from his brutality. With that, your father went ahead and ruined our company’s name because of his wealth. Because he has all the power in the world, and now that I’ve come to confront him, they are treating me like shit.” Larry’s expression darkened, his jaw clenching as he absorbed my words. “I had no idea,” he muttered, his voice low with disbelief. “I’m not surprised,” I replied bitterly. “They’ve been careful to keep their actions hidden, but I won’t let them get away with it.* He ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident in his movements. “This is unacceptable. I can’t believe they would stoop so low.” “Believe it. “And unless someone from within their own family stands up to them, they’ll continue to destroy everything in their path.” Larry’s eyes met mine, a flicker of resolve shining through the turmoil. “I won’t let that happen. I’ll talk to them; make them see reason.” I shook my head, a bitter laugh escaping my lips. “I doubt they’ll listen to you, Larry. Their own greed and power too consume them.” [ He sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. “Even so, I have to try. I can’t let them ruin everything.” 352 LINE IN THE SAND 2/4 I reached out and placed a reassuring hand on his arm. “Thank you, Larry. I appreciate your support more than you know.“. He gave me a small nod. “I promise I’ll do whatever it takes to make this right, Ariel ” “Hold on a minute, don’t tell me you’re going to take her side now, son,” his mother told him. Larry turned to her. “Mom, please. Why do you people have to be so rude towards her?” “What are you trying to do here, young man?” Mr. Kingston questioned Larry. “I’m only doing what’s right, father.” “And what do you think is right?” Simon budged into the conversation with a loud voice. “I wasn’t talking to you, brother. I think it’s best you just hold it there,” Larry retorted. He turned back to his parents. “So, I did hear about the Walkers going down, but I didn’t know you’re responsible for it, father.” “Larry, you’ve lost your mind!” Mr. Kingston thundered, his face flushing with anger. “How are you speak to me like that? You’re nothing without this family’s legacy!‘ rched as Larry squared his shoulders, refusing to back down. “I may be your son, but that doesn’t mean I’ll stand by silently while you destroy others for your own gain.” Mrs. Kingston scoffed. “You’re being ridiculous, Larry. Don’t fall for this girl’s falsehoods. Larry’s jaw clenched, but he remained composed. “It’s not about Ariel, Mom. It’s about what’s right.” Simon sneered, his arrogance evident. “Right? What do you know about what’s right? You’re just a naive kid who doesn’t understand how the real world works.” Larry shot back, his voice steady despite the tension crackling in the air. “Maybe I am naive, but I refuse to become like you, Simon. I won’t sacrifice my morals for the sake of power. Mr. Kingston’s face contorted with rage. “You’re a disgrace to this family, Larry! If you continue down this path, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life.” But Larry didn’t waver. “Maybe so, but at least I’ll be able to live with myself, knowing I stood up for what’s right.” I could see the conflict in Larry’s eyes as he faced his family’s fury, but his resolve remained unshaken. He was determined to make peace, even if it meant facing their wrath. At this point, I knew I had an ally in this fight. 352 LINE IN THE SAND By the way, Larry was remarkable. He had an irresistible combination of looks, kindnes and empathy. His charming personality and warm demeanor had a magnetic effect on those around him, especially the ladies. Unsurprisingly, many were smitten with him, as his genuine care and consideration for others were truly admirable. Larry remained Jumble and down to earth despite his marry admirable qualities, a stark contrast to his vain and selfish brother, Simon Many adored Larry because his character exemplified what it truly meant to be a great guy “I don’t know what this man’s still doing in this house, father. Just kick him out. He doesn’t belong here. He doesn’t deserve to be called your son,” Simon said, a “What are you saying, Simon?” Mrs. Kingston questioned him. “Please don’t say that. He’s not in his right senses at the moment, but that doesn’t mean I love him.” Mr. Kingston sighed. “Oh, shut up. Stop being emotional. Larry is trying to challenge me, and he is going to suffer for it. “Dad, you have to understand my point here.” Larry continued to stand his ground, pleading with his father to reconsider his actions, I admired his unwavering determination. Despite his family’s verbal onslaught, he remained resolute in this situation. “Larry, please,” I interjected, fixing my hand on his shoulder. “We can find another way to handle this. We don’t need to resort to threats and ultimatums.” He glanced at me, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes, before returning his attention to his father. “Dad, please listen to me. I don’t want to see our family torn apart over this. There has to be a way to make things right without destroying everything we’ve built.” Mr. Kingston’s face hardened, his eyes narrowing as he regarded his son with disdain. “You dare to question my authority in front of everyone? You’re a disgrace, Larry. I raised you to be better than this.” “I’m not questioning your authority, Dad. I’m questioning your ethics. What you’re doing is wrong, and I can’t stand by and watch it happen.” His father’s lips curled into a sneer. “Fine. If that’s how you feel, then you leave me no choice. You’re no longer welcome in this family’s business. Consider yourself disowned.” The words hung heavy in the air, a clear tension settling over us. I could see the hurt and betrayal in Larry’s eyes, but beneath it was a glimmer of relief as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. “I’m sorry it had to come to this, Dad,” Larry said, his voice filled with sorrow. But I can’t IN LINE IN THE SAND 4/4 condone what you’ve done. I’ll find my own path that aligns with my principles and values.” He turned around to face me and said, “Come on, Ariel, let’s go.” “Larry, wait!” His mother spoke audibly.
