355: MY INSTINCTS LUKE’S POV “I believe they’re going to be valuable partners,” my grandfather finally said, his tone guarded. “But let’s not dwell on that for now. We’ll discuss it further another time.” I sensed his reluctance to delve deeper into the matter, but his words only fueled my curiosity even more. However, before I could press him for more information, he changed the subject abruptly. “Let’s not worry about business tonight, Luke,” he said, flashing me a reassuring smile. ” Dinner awaits, and I’m sure Cook has prepared something delightful.” Despite my lingering questions, I knew better than to push the issue further. With a nod, I followed my grandfather towards the dining room, making a mental note to revisit the topic later. As we settled into our seats and began to enjoy our meal, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was more to this partnership with the Walkers Company than met the eye. But for now, I pushed those thoughts aside and focused on the delicious food in front of me, ring that answers would come in due time. ARIEL’S POV I finally made my way home, and by pushing the double doors open, I was greeted by my parents, who were waiting for me in the foyer. They rushed over to hug me as soon as they saw me. “Ariel, darling, it’s so good to see you,” my mother exclaimed, holding me tightly. to “It’s so good to see you too,” I said, turning to Larry, who was following me. He was hesitant, knowing my parents‘ situation with his family, but he insisted on coming with me, trying to make them understand that he was on our side. “Mom, Dad, this is Larry,” I introduced him. “He’s the son of…” “Harold Kingston.” My father cut me off. His face darkened as soon as he spoke the name. I knew he was thinking about how Larry’s father had ruined our family’s business. His face was filled with regret. “What is he doing here?” my father asked, barely able to hide his disapproval. I took a deep breath and prepared to defend Larry. “Dad, please listen to me. Larry is different from his family. He’s on our side.” Curious, my mother asked Larry to share more about himself. As he spoke, I could see my parents‘ expressions soften. They were impressed by his intelligence, drive, and, most of all, genuine remorse for what his father had done to us. “I’m truly sorry for what my father did to your family,” Larry said, his voice full of sincerity. “I low it’s going to be kind of hard, but I want to help you regain what you have lost.” My parents looked at each other, and I could see the wheels turning in their heads. After a moment of silence, my father spoke up, “Well, I have to admit, I’m impressed by you, Larry. And we could help get our business back on track.‘ They invited him to stay for dinner, and I could see the joy in Larry’s eyes. Despite his initial nervousness about meeting my parents, he felt warmly welcomed into our family. We all sat down for dinner; the atmosphere was tense yet hopeful. Larry seemed eager to prove himself, and my parents were cautiously optimistic. We began to dig into the delicious meal, and my father cleared his throat, breaking the silence. “So, Ariel, there’s something I’ve been meaning to discuss with you. exchanged a glance with Larry, wondering what my father had in mind. “What is it, Dad?” I ked, trying to sound casual. “I’ve been in talks with The Reynolds Company,” my father began, his tone measured. “I believe they’re going to be valuable partners for us in revitalizing our business.” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Reynolds was one of the most reputable companies in the industry, known for its innovation and success. This could be exactly what we need to turn things around. “That’s fantastic news, Dad. How did this partnership come about?” My father smiled proudly. “Well, it’s been in the works for a while now. I’ve held several meetings with their representatives. Sir Reynold, I believe, sees potential in collaborating with us. He has offered their company’s expertise and resources to help us navigate through these challenging times.” Larry nodded in agreement. “That’s amazing, Mr. Walker. The Reynolds have a stellar reputation, and I’m sure their support will make a significant difference for your business.” My mother chimed in, her voice filled with optimism. “It sounds like a wonderful opportunity, dear. With Reynolds backing us up, I have no doubt that we’ll be able to overcome any obstacles that come our way. “Yes, but there is one thing,” my father said under his breath, his face changing all of a sudden. 355: MY INSTINCTS “What is that?” I asked him in curiosity. He shook his head. “It’s nothing. Just enjoy your meal.” I decided not to ask further, but I knew something wasn’t right here with the way his tone changed all of a sudden. What was going on? LUKE’S POV Daniel and I decided to go to our favorite club for a drink. Walking inside the building, loud music and chatter filled our ears. We made our way to the bar and ordered our usual drinks. We sat down at a table near the dance floor, sipping on our drinks and catching up on each other’s week. But as I looked around, something caught my eye. In the corner of the club, I saw a man with a bald head yelling at a young lady. She looked scared, and I could see tears in her eyes. I nudged Daniel and pointed toward them. “Do you see that? That man is harassing that girl. Daniel shrugged and replied, “Let’s not get involved, man. It’s none of our business.” towards 1–t I couldn’t just sit there and do nothing. I got up from my seat and made my way Le. As I got closer, I could hear the man yelling at the lady, demanding that she dance with him. I tapped the man on his shoulder and said, “Excuse me, sir. I think the lady doesn’t want to dance with you. The man turned around, giving me a menacing look. “Who the hell are you?” “I’m just a concerned citizen. I don’t think the lady wants to dance with you. Why don’t you leave her alone?” The man scoffed and pushed me away. “Mind your own business.” I stood my ground and looked at him straight in the eye. “I think you should leave before things get ugly.” The man let out a sinister laugh. “Oh, you think you can take me on?” Before I could reply, the man swung his fist at me. I quickly dodged and punched him back. He stumbled back, surprised by my quick reflexes. I could see Daniel watching us from a distance, his eyes wide with shock. The man quickly shoved me to the floor and wanted to land punches on my face, but I got up right away, pushing him backward.
