God of Temptation

Chapter 43

~Ariella~

Evan: So, how's your holidays going so far?

Ariella: Well, they are getting started now.

Evan: Anything special?

Ariella: Well, nothing out of the norm, but right now I am hanging out with my childhood friends.

Evan: That sounds cool.

Ariella: What about you?

Evan: Nothing much for me, but I am helping my mom out with Christmas preparations.

Ariella: Are you enjoying it?

Evan: Actually, I love it. This is my favorite part of the year, and helping her out is the best.

As I read Evan's messages, a soft smile graces my lips. It's heartwarming to see his enthusiasm for the holiday season, especially as I navigate my own feelings of uncertainty and longing. Despite the festive cheer, there's a twinge of sadness lingering beneath the surface—a reminder of the void left by Remi's absence.

"I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it," I type back, my fingers hovering over the screen. "There's something special about the holiday season, isn't there? It's like a time when everyone comes together to spread joy and cheer."

Evan's response is swift, his enthusiasm palpable even through text. "Exactly! It's all about spreading love and making memories with the ones you care about."

His words resonate with me, stirring a mixture of emotions within me. On one hand, I'm grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with the warmth and love of my childhood, surrounded by friends and family. But on the other hand, there's a lingering ache—a reminder of the love I once held for Remi, now tinged with regret and longing.

"Yeah, they're the best," Evan continues, his fondness for his family evident in his words. "And what about you, Ariella? Do you have any special holiday traditions with your family?"

As I read Evan's question, memories of past holidays flood my mind—simple traditions and cherished moments shared with loved ones. "We have a few traditions," I reply, my fingers moving hesitantly across the screen. "Nothing too extravagant, but they're special to me nonetheless."

As the conversation continues, I find myself drawn to Evan's genuine warmth and enthusiasm, grateful for the unexpected connection we've found amidst the holiday hustle and bustle. And though my heart may still be heavy with unresolved feelings, there's a glimmer of hope flickering within me—a hope that maybe, just maybe, this holiday season will bring healing and renewal.

The revving of the engine catches my attention, pulling me out of my thoughts. I glance out the window to see a Porsche parked nearby, instantly recognizing it as Remi's. My heart skips a beat at the sight of him emerging from the car, his presence igniting a flurry of conflicting emotions within me.

Despite everything he's done, the sight of Remi still manages to stir something deep within me. But beneath the surface of that familiar flutter, a tide of anger and hurt rushes in, threatening to overwhelm me. It's the hurt he caused me, the suffering he put me through, the heartbreak he brought me. It's been two months since he told me those words, and I still haven't forgiven him for the words he told me after I poured out my entire heart out to him.

As Remi's eyes meet mine through the window, I feel a surge of resentment bubbling up inside me. His gaze, once capable of melting my resolve, now only serves to fuel the fire of my anger. I refuse to be swayed by the faint sheen of emotion in his eyes—a token gesture of remorse that holds no weight in the face of his actions.