LUCILLE POV

There was this unfathomable feeling that clouded my mind since yesterday, the day my mum revealed the truth to me. I had always felt she treated Ariel far better than me since we were young.

Even though we were poor, she was ready to give her all to Ariel, but right now, the tides have changed. Ariel was not only homeless but ripped off her properties which are now ours.

Gently covering the upper part of my dad's body, I turned to leave.

"If you continue to be like your mother, your life will be ruined, "I stopped as my dad's words reached my ears.

I clenched my fist, trying not to let his words get to me, as I hurriedly walked out of the room. 'He is not a saint either,' I thought

It was late already, but my ears picked up whispers from my mum's room, as I moved closer to hear.

"It was a simple work, and you are both telling me you failed, "My mum's voice erupted

She was probably talking to those bodyguards of hers, but what was it all about?

Their whispers only piqued my interest as I walked to the door leading to my mum's room.

"Your lack of competence is nothing but a shame. I can't believe you let that girl escape," My mum's angry voice erupted inside, as I felt my legs almost trembled.

Covering my mouth to prevent the gasp that almost escaped my lips. I couldn't believe mum wanted Ariel dead, but why? It was true I detested her, but my envy and jealousy only wanted her harmed and not dead. This is bizarre.

"I want her dead at all costs. Failure to do so, and I won't pay you,"

I hurriedly left, careful not to make any noise. Gently closing the door of my room, I felt my heart almost throbbing out of its place. I tried to calm myself, as I let out the air I was holding.

I paced for a while before settling on my bed. I could not help but feel a little bit of pity for Ariel. I don't know whether it was my dad's words that got to me or the fact that my mum wanted her dead.

I had always envied her for being the center of my parent's attention, not until yesterday when I knew everything was a ploy all this while. Ariel was the goody two shoes, while I was the bad one.

I let my head sink low, my previous words to her running through my mind. I called her useless and wished she was no longer part of the family.

The knock on the door jolted me off my thoughts, prompting me to peek. The door opened revealing my mum.

The light in my room seems to be one of the blessings we received today, as my mum paid for the electricity, from one of Ariel's properties money. I still find it hard to wrap my head around how my mum was able to get her hand on Ariel's properties in a blink of an eye. It was quite difficult to comprehend.

"Honey, you are awake," She let herself in as I tried to put on a smile.

"Yes, I am. I couldn't sleep, "I said the truth.

It was a relief Ariel was out of my life and no longer stealing the spotlight. At least, she could live a poor and lowly life, probably coming back to beg at my feet. But the feeling that my mum wanted her dead, only made me feel off, especially since my revenge won't be complete. I wanted her to feel what I felt for the past 24 years of my life.

I felt my mother's presence beside me, as I let out a sigh.

"I'm glad I got to show my real love to you now. All of Ariel's properties are now in our name. You should be happy now. We can start over, happily," She touched my shoulder,but I simply looked away.

She noticed my lack of interest as she withdrew her hand.

"It seems you are upset. I will see you by morning," She stood up to leave, as I developed the courage to ask why she wanted Ariel dead.

"I thought you wanted Ariel out of our home. Why do you want her dead?" She stopped, as I felt her gaze on me.

"You want to know. For a start, Ariel owned the properties I took from her. Do you think she will let us off the hook now that she had figured out I took her properties,"

Now, I felt my mum's angry self. Her hands raised, as she pointed out the fact to me.

"Not until she is dead, I won't. No, "She gazed at me intently this time.

"We won't enjoy this new wealth of ours in peace. I had known her for the past 25 years of her life. I know the kind of person she is. She might look soft from the outside, but she was not the sort that gives up,"

I gritted my teeth. I knew she was right, but that didn't mean I liked what she was saying. I still thought letting her know my revenge plan was the best, but I let it slide, at least for today.

"And Ariel's arranged marriage. Any plans for that?"That stopped my mum from opening to leave my room as she removed her hand from the doorknob. I rested my gaze on her, as she breathed out.

"You will be getting married instead,"

"What?"I found my lips tied, unable to pick my words.

"Yes. I never wanted Ariel to get married to that rich bachelor in the first place. You are the right one. Get ready to be married Lucille, and step into the limelight," She walked out before I could process the information.

For once, I felt content with her last set of words. Not because I wanted to get married, but it was my first step in getting revenge on Ariel. Stealing what was meant for her,' The rich businessman.

******

ARIEL POV

I woke up to the pungent smell of hospital disinfectant, invading my nostrils. The room was silent apart from my heavy breathing and the beep-beep sound one often hears in hospitals that indicates one is alive.

I slowly opened my eyes, squinting in an attempt to sharpen the blurred images before me. I glanced around and took in the deserted room painted in a blue and white schemed hospital bedroom.

How long have I been here?' I thought

I shut my eyes, trying to remember what had exactly happened. Then it hits me of what happened the previous night. I wished I hadn't remembered because it was as if it hit me with a bang. The memory of it all started to occupy my thoughts.

I tried to get up, as the cold air hit my face. I sighed, cold jolting throughout my body. It didn't last long.

What mattered was that I was still alive. I was glad I didn't die, especially in the hands of those masked men.

'Who brought me here?' I thought. Out of impulse, my right hand traveled to my face, pressing on the area on my right temple.

I tried to get up, as I stepped on the cold, white tiles. I felt weak as I instantly laid back on the bed. Staring at the ceiling, illuminated with white fluorescent light, I was patiently waiting for someone to come in. Probably one of the hospital staff.

My mind flashed back to the incident that happened yesterday night, as the image of the one I called 'family' hit me hard again, and tears slipped down my face.

'I won't cry again. They are not worth it,' I whispered consoling myself.

My mind went back to how I got to the middle of the road and was hit by a car. I could not help but wonder how long I have been in the hospital.

My series of questions was interrupted as a woman, probably in her early sixties, strands of gray hair were slightly in view with the curly brown hair and mesmerizing hazel eyes emerged from the door of the room.

"Hey, you are awake," she strolled towards me, with her two hands holding bags, as she gently placed them beside me.

I glanced at the woman, not sure who she was.

"Do I know you, ma'am?" I voiced out, trying to recognize but my brain seemed clogged, not responding.

"You don't need that, darling. I was the one who ran into you last night. My apologies. I hope you are fine," She smiled at me, as I simply nodded.

"It's nothing. I should have been more careful. Thanks for taking me here. How long have I been here?" I asked as she narrowed her eyes a bit.

She must have felt I wasn't angry she ran into me with her car. But somehow, I was happy I got into an accident the previous night, or I might have been killed.

"Oh, close to ten hours. The doctor said you needed to rest, as you fell due to the slight impact of the car. I hope you are fine now. My apologies once again." She stated, as I stepped onto the floor, and sat on the bed.

"No worries ma. You did the right thing by bringing me to the hospital. What if you had left me to die there? It shows you are a good person. Thank you ma."

I don't know why I was appreciating her, but I felt indebted to her.

"I still feel guilty. But for a start, I brought you something,"

She reached for one of the bags, as she bought out plastics containing food,and gently placed it on a tray she brought along, setting it before me,placing it on my laps.

My stomach grumbled, as my face turned crimson. I haven't eaten since yesterday. The last thing I took only led me to sign those properties to my stepmom. I shook my head, as I tried not to bring in that memory.

I concentrated on the food, as I salivated at the hot oatmeal and scrambled eggs in front of me.

"Eat up. It is better eaten when hot," I simply nodded, as I took the spoon, trying to take the food slowly, even though I felt like munching it at once.

I looked at the woman, who was sitting on the chair beside my bed. She reminded me of how my step mum used to treat me when I was sick. I gulped down the oatmeal, trying to see the woman in a good light. She is a good woman and not like my step mum whose love was false.

I finished the meal in a few minutes, as I tried to stand. The woman's gaze shifted from her phone as she beat me to it. Swiftly dropping her phone on the bed, she collected the tray from me, and disposed of the plastic containers in the trash bin at the extreme end of the room.

Gently cleaning her hands with a sanitizer, she rubbed her hands together before settling down, putting her phone in her bag.

"I'm Selina Ackers. Nice to meet you,"She put on a bright smile, as I returned the smile.

"I am Ariel Peterson. Thank you for the meal ma'am, "I appreciated as she chuckled.

Her palms touched mine, as I tried to relax under her touch.

"Ever since I saw you, I could see nothing but sadness in your eyes. Are you okay, my daughter? Or did something happen to you yesterday night?"Her voice brimmed with concern.

Even though she was a stranger, I felt like telling her what happened the previous night.

"I got the worst betrayal of my life, as I realized my stepmom had been pretending to love me only because she wanted my property which I was oblivious to. She sent me out of the house and probably sent assassins to kill me. I lost everything in just one night, "I lowered my gaze, as I could hardly keep myself together, as I broke into tears.

I squeezed my eyelids shut, hoping the tears would stop. My watery eyes remained for quite some time, as I remained motionless.

"Hey, calm down," She gently pressed my palms.

"You can be assured everything will be fine. So sorry about what happened to you. You will be fine. You are strong and should be ready to forge ahead with your life."

I cleaned my face with the back of my palm, as I smiled. The details of her words were like coins, dropping into an empty jar inside of me, slowly filling it up. Somehow, I wanted more assurance...... From her.

"I can help you, Ariel, "My eyes met with hers, as I tried to stop my choppy breathing. I wanted to keep smiling.

"I will help you get your properties back,"

"Really?"I felt joyful for a while. Those properties were my real mum's last thing she left for me. I had to get it back. And as for my stepmom, I doubt if I will let her off easily.

"Yes, I will help you. But I won't be helping you for free. I need a favor from you,"

Who was I kidding to have felt she would do it for free? It would probably be for a huge sum of money.

"I... I don't have any money to offer. I just graduated from College, and still looking for a job, "I rambled on.

"You do not need to pay me."

'This woman keeps surprising me.'

"I want you to get married to my son. Please Ariel,"

I felt still, as her voice rang in my ear.

'Marriage will be lovely,' my subconscious hit me with those words, as I stared into space.

RYAN POV

The elevator dings open as I move out with my secretary trailing behind me.

My phone stuck to my right ear as I was finalizing the deal with one of our biggest clients.

"We will meet next week Mr. Hawkthore. I will ask my secretary to book the appointment, "I finalized, as I hung up the call.

I kept walking towards my office.

"Zara, kindly get the work done and bring them to my office as soon as possible. As well as the appointment with Mr. Hawkthore, "I stopped walking and instructed her before opening my office door.

She nodded and walked to her cubicle in the opposite direction.

I heaved a sigh of relief as I entered my office, my head throbbing, and I felt a slight headache. I am damn tired already.

Running over the company has been one of my top priorities. I had to make sure everything was in place, especially as the CEO of this company, which focuses mostly on land buying and selling, as well as construction projects.

Pulling my suit off my body, I allowed it to settle on the back of my seat, as I slumped into my office chair, twirling the chair around.

As I looked into the files in front of me, I suddenly felt a flash of guilt, apart from the workload on me. A flash of the lady I ran into by accident blurred my imagination, piquing my curiosity,whether she was fine.

I took my phone to call my driver, who I asked to give me an update about her welfare. The door to my office opened, as I raised my head, anger fueling inside of me, at the sight of the person I saw.

He strolled closer, as he settled down in one of the chairs in front of me, a smirk on his face.

"I never knew my best friend was a sissy. It has been over two years bro, have some fun, "He chuckled, as I tried to keep my calm, breathing out gently.

If he wasn't my best friend, I doubt if I would not have beaten him up by now.

"And I can't believe my best friend will betray me. Especially with spiking up my drink and trying to hook me up with those sluts, "My blues eyes met his dark brown eyes, as he simply snorted, annoying me more.

He readjusted himself, as he rested his hands on my table.

"You are blaming me now bro. I was only looking out for you."He peered at me

"Look out for yourself. I am old enough to live my life. I do not want to have anything to do with any other woman. Next time you try that shit, like yesterday night, I can't promise not to cut our friendship ties, Nick." I gave him a stern look, as his face contorted into a frown.

That was more like it. He should feel guilty for what he did. I shouldn't have trusted him in the first place,especially if I knew he had his plans off his sleeve. But instead I went to a bar with him.

The thought of it only makes me feel furious.

"Seriously? It has been over two years since she died. Are you still clinging to her?"I gritted my teeth at his words.

"You need to move on Ryan. Get laid, or better still, get married to someone else. To be honest, I never really liked your dead wife before. Maybe the universe is telling you to move on. You are almost 30 for fuck sake."

His words were like knives pushed into my body. I rolled my hands into fists, as I stared angrily at him.

"Nick, get out, "He wore a shocked expression, as he looked at me.

"Are you kidding me?"

"No. I am not. Don't make things messier for us. Until you are willing to acknowledge your mistakes, don't ever try talking to me again, "I stated firmly, as he sighed.

He stood up, as he turned to leave.

"And the next time you pull that kind of stunt like yesternight, or you try to say shitty words about her, even though she is dead, I will never forgive you again."

He muttered under his breath some words, as he left my office. I called my secretary immediately, giving her a clear warning never to allow Nick to enter my office again, not until I said so.

I creased my forehead as I felt my head banging. 'Anger is not good,' I said inwardly.

I rested on my seat, and I felt guilty for the words I said to Nick. He had been my childhood best friend and was probably looking out for me. But still, he shouldn't have involved himself in such a funny act.

Just because of the spiked drink, I ran into a young lady with my car. I hope mother doesn't find out or I might have some queries regarding my late night yesterday especially after lying that I was at home yesterday night. I even sent my driver home early yesterday, all thanks to Nick's hanging out plan.

The ringing tone of my phone brought me out of my reverie, as it displayed my driver's contact on the phone. I breathe out, hoping I would be hearing some good news this time around.

"Hello. Any update about the lady?"I questioned.

"Fine sir. She has woken up and is feeling better, "I felt relieved by his words.

I doubt if I will be able to see the lady again. She looked beautiful, yet weary yesterday. I was drunk and got her into this mess in the first place.

"But sir....." My brows creased, at the sound of my driver. It seemed he was hiding something else at the sound of his hesitation.

"Speak up, Mr. Walter."

"Mrs. Ackers visited."

"What the...."I missed it, wondering how my mum got to know about the incident.

"How did she know?"

"I don't know,boss. But I think she has some people following you recently. She even brought some provisions for the hospitalized young lady. She left recently."

"Thank you for the information. Just make sure she is okay. What is her name?"I asked, tapping my table, due to tension building in me.

"Ariel Peterson."

"Got it. Keep updating me. Thank you, Mr. Walter."

I hung up, as I felt more fatigue.. it was as if the whole world was resting on my shoulder.

There was a knock on the door, as I straightened up a bit.

"Come in, "The door opened, and my eyes widened.

"Good day son."

"Mum, "My voice almost trailed off as I stood up to welcome her.

We hugged each other as she sat on the chair opposite me. Feeling more nervous than ever, as it was rare for her to visit the company except for very important reasons. She stared at me, a brilliant smile plastered on her lips.

"Sit. You do not have to offer me anything. I only came to give you a proposal. One, you haven't acknowledged for a while now, "My heart thumped for a while, as I smiled softly, before sitting.

"I'm all ears mum."

"For a start, I think you should be kneeling on the ground, especially for the stunt you pulled off yesterday, "I lowered my eyes, feeling guilty beneath my mother's scrutiny.

"Well. I'm sorry I lied yesterday, as well as hitting that lady with my car. It was a mistake. It won't happen again, "I looked at her with puppy eyes, as she chuckled softly.

"That isn't what you should be bothered about for now. I have taken care of it. Have you seen the newspaper headline recently?"My face dreaded with sadness at her last statement.

I knew what the news was all about. The rumor that I was gay, was laughable. I am not gay, but only a man who can't seem to forget his late wife.

I felt a warm hand, gently caressing the back of my palm, jolting me out of my reverie. I let out my breath, trying to get the rumor out of my memory. To me, the words of others shouldn't get to me. I am a wall.

"I'm so sorry son."

I shook my head, putting a smile on my lips. To reassure my mum that I was fine.

"It is fine. I guess the shareholders of this company also want me to get married. Some planned on pulling out their shares if I don't get married soon, "My mum nodded, as she cleared her throat

"I want you to get married soon, please."

I looked at her with amazement. This will be the first time she will bring up the topic

"But mum, I still love Evelyn."I shook my head, refusing instantly, but her next line of action shocked me to the bone.

She knelt down, as I quickly rose to make her stand up.

"Mum, please. Stop this. I am begging you, "I tried to make her stand, as she stood her ground.

"I want you to get married, Ryan. I promise you won't regret this."

I straightened up, frustration building in as I glanced around the room, refusing to make eye contact with her. My heart pounded, as I hummed quietly to myself. Trying to reduce the nervousness and anxieties clouding me.

I sat down as I looked at my mum who was still on her knees.

"I will get married in the next few months. Please, get up mum, "I pleaded, as I felt a fluttering nervous stomach feeling.

She stood up, as she sat. She reached to touch my hands, but I flinched backward. Just because I accepted doesn't mean I was happy with her for forcing me. The thought of marriage alone was enough to paralyze me.

"You seemed upset. I was only looking out for you, which is why I will make things easy for you. You are free to state your conditions regarding the marriage as well."

"I want you to get married to the lady you ran into yesterday."

I peeked at her, as I tapped my fingers on my table. It seemed my mum had this all planned out. I will go with the flow. I love her, and I will obey her.

"I have some conditions."She nodded, as she paid more attention.

"Firstly, I want to meet the woman you want me to marry, after she is released from the hospital. Number 2 is that we will get married only for a year." I started, as my mum's countenance changed slightly.

I rested my hands on the table, then continued:" If I do not develop any feelings for her at the end of the one-year stated, we will part ways. And lastly, I don't want this marriage to be public."

"I agree. However, if you fall in love with her within that one year, after five more years, you are free to leave and enjoy the simple lifestyle you always wanted. Your younger brother will handle the company."

I felt happy at her last set of words, even with the clause there. I knew in my heart that it was only my late wife that I would love all the days of my life.

"And the lady in question, did she agree to marry me?"I asked

"Yes, she did. The question is ' DO YOU AGREE?"

"I agree."I finally voiced out.

The next stage was to finally meet the lady that caught my mother's eye.

ARIEL POV

I watched as the doctor examined me. She took my pulses and also checked my breathing. I could not help but pray silently that I would finally get discharged.

It had been two days since I had been in the hospital, and the thought of leaving soon always crept to my mind. I tried not to think of my response to Mrs. Selina proposal, which I gladly said yes to.

A lot of What's and Why had been on my mind lately especially at my rushed decision. What was I thinking about to the extent of agreeing to a marriage proposal,especially to someone I had never seen in my life. I had always wanted to marry the one I love, not a marriage of inconvenience.

I groaned inwardly at my thought.

But I still couldn't help but nudge a grudge at my family,the thought of revenge slowly creeping into my mind. I doubt if I will let them go scot free, especially my stepmom. Every time I thought about it, I felt overwhelmed with emotion. It was the greatest betrayal I had ever received in my life. It was like a slap to my face.

“Miss Ariel, you will be discharged today,” My face tilted to face the doctor, as a smile crept to my lips.

If I wasn't on the hospital bed,I would probably be doing a happy dance now. She adjusted her stethoscope as she looked at me.

“Your bills have been paid. Please do well to take care. Avoid any stressful job for now, and also take a lot of rest.”

“Thank you ma. I will do everything you ask me to do, as long as I can get out of here today. I need fresh air,” I groaned, as she chuckled.

“Alright. Take care. Bye for now,” She exited the room as I leaped up with joy.

I walked to and fro before settling on the bed. My smile widened, as I felt happy and grateful to Mrs. Selina for taking good care of me and even paying off my hospital bills. It really touched my heart.

I glanced towards the right side, as I saw the file she left while she visited last night. It contained some information about her son, which no doubt confirmed that she really meant business when she said she wanted me to get married to her son.

I peeked at the file, as I scanned through his profile.

“Ryan Ackers, CEO of AK Corporation.” I read out as my eyes suddenly got glued to the picture attached to the file.

There was no doubt that he looked dazzling, especially in those black suits on him.

My thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door, as the person I assumed to be the driver walked in.I had often seen him with Mrs. Selina.

“Hi Miss Ariel, young master requested I bring you to his office today,” My eyes widened, trying to take in his words.

It felt as if cold air passed through me. Today?' I asked myself, as I had forgotten all about it. I was asked by Mrs. Selina to meet him after getting discharged.

“Um, okay. I will be out in the next five minutes,” I said to the man, as he nodded and left.

I picked up some of my belongings as I arranged them properly in a bag. There were few, as I quickly left for outside. Each step I took reminded me how I was free from the pungent smell of the hospital.

I said a silent prayer, as I passed through the lobby before I was directed to a car by the driver. I got inside the Black Mercedes-Benz as I inhaled the beautiful scent that accompanied it, as if it was brand new. Furthermore, I placed my stuff beside me, battling with different thoughts, as soon as the car started moving.

It felt as if my life had suddenly changed overnight. More like a Cinderella story. But all I could pray for is a happily ever after. I tried to block the possibilities of rejection from the person I would be meeting: Ryan Ackers, one of the top Billionaires in the USA CORPORATION COMPANIES LIST.

Marriage will be lovely,' I thought. It doesn't matter whether he likes me or not. I just wanted to live another life, opposite what I wanted for myself. From a simple and reserved lifestyle, to a rich and classy lifestyle.

The car stopped at the front of an immense building as I stepped out. I was putting on a floral design pink gown that reached my knee and a pink and black sandal, which was quite decent. All this, gotten by Mrs. Selina. My heart suddenly leaped with gratitude for all she had done for me.

I was awed at the exteriors of the skyscraper, but the moment I stepped in only left me speechless. The interior look took my breath away.

I glanced around at the busy lobby, quite amazed at how everywhere was. The way the sun shone through the glass walls gave the whole place some sort of light and elegance.

I was soon led by the driver to what I assumed to be a private elevator, as I noticed that we passed by the crowded ones. We both stepped in, as the elevator closed.

“What's your name, sir?” I asked as he smiled at me.

“Walter,” I nodded and returned his smile, finally glad I knew someone close enough to the Ackers family.

The elevator dings open, as I move out. Mr. Walter waved at me after pointing to the office in front of me to be that of Ryan. My heart leaped, as the elevator closed, as I turned to face the door. I moved gently towards the office, breathing in and out and finally developed the courage to knock on the door.

“Come in,”

I stepped in, closing the door gently behind, as the office looked more beautiful, with gold and black imprints as interiors.

My eyes came in contact, landing on the most beautiful pair of blue eyes I had ever seen.

“Hello, Ariel.” His voice came out slow and calm.

I froze in place as I met his gaze. He even looked better in person than in the pictures I saw earlier.

He looked breathtaking dressed in a black suit. His blonde hair combed smoothly in place, as his long dark lashes framed his eyes. He looked like a wonderful Adonis drawn out from the pages of one of the Historical Romance books I read.

“Ahem,” he faked a cough, jolting me out of my reverie.

“You should really stop staring and take your seat,” he offered, as my face flushed.

I need to work on my subtle ogling. I was not good at it. I gently found my seat in one of the chairs in front of him, as I looked sideways.

“Ariel. Why do you want to marry me?” His question came out of the blues, shocking me.

I looked up at him, as his eyes bore into mine, and for some seconds, I confessed inwardly that I was beginning to get attracted to this man.

Noticing my lack of response, he further urged:”Are you after my money?”

My face turned grim. Just great! Just when I thought he wasn't like those typical cold Billionaires I always read about, he proved me wrong. His question was like a dagger.

“Definitely not. I am not a lover of money. I only want to get married.” He chuckled at my statement, creeping me out the most.

“You can't fool me, Ariel, even if you had managed to make my mum fall for you. Listen.” He folded his hands, resting on the table, as he moved closer to me.

“I will pay you any amount. Just mention it, and it will be yours. Tell my mum you are no longer interested. You can possibly leave this country or start a new life somewhere,” He proposed, as I felt my hand itching to hit him in his face.

It was his sheer audacity for me. Does he think every girl can be bought with money?

“I think you got the wrong idea, Mr. Ryan Ackers. I accepted the marriage proposal, not because of any material benefits. I only wanted to get married. But if you do not accept this, I will gladly inform Mrs. Selina about it.”

I brought out my phone, pretending to put a call through, but his next action caught me off, as he took away the phone.

“You are not calling anyone. I just need to ask you more questions.”

He looked intently at me, making me feel a little flustered. I really wanted to leave here soon. At least for now. His gaze were not helping, I thought.

The knock on the door made him look up, as he requested for the person outside to enter.

A short petite lady with short blonde hair entered, as she looked shocked slightly as she glared briefly at me, before turning to I'm not sure we had met.

"Sir, your meeting with Mrs Samantha Delerosa is in five minutes, as she is available now. She is the owner of Sam and Lucille Corporation,"The lady states, as I felt my body tensed.

"I will be there,"Ryan stood up, as he looked at me one more time, handing back my phone to me.

"I will be right back, Ariel Peterson,"He mumbled, as they left, leaving me with my thoughts.

I bit down on the inside of my cheek, trying to calm the nerves twisting inside of me.

'They can't possibly be the one,'I thought.

My heart had started to warble inside my chest. My breaths suddenly quickened. My nerves kicked up into high gear again.

"It can't be possible. She can't be here," I mused

I shook my head, closing my eyes, as I kept quiet for a short moment, during which a deluge of apprehension fought for dominance in my forebrain.

The shadows of that night clouded my mind again.