God of Temptation

Chapter 49

~Ariella~

As I prepare to bid goodbye to this cozy cocoon of familial warmth and venture back to the hallowed halls of Oxford, I find myself reflecting on the peculiar comfort this vacation brought me. It was like a soothing cup of chamomile tea for my soul, with just a dash of existential angst.

Having my family around was comforting, and Evan? Well, he's turned into my partner-in-crime faster than I could say 'holiday cheer.' And then there's Remi, the enigma wrapped in a cashmere scarf. He haunted my days, a persistent specter of remorse, pleading for forgiveness. He's been reciting the same old lines, how he longs for me and wants another chance. Yet, I stood firm against the seduction of Temptation's siren call.

And oh, how my heart wavered! It tugged at my sleeve like a needy toddler in a toy store, whispering, "Give him a chance, Ariella. Maybe he's changed. Maybe he's learned to fold fitted sheets." But no, my dear heart, I've been down that treacherous path before. It's paved with rose petals and ends in a pit of emotional quicksand. Poor thing's a glutton for punishment, isn't it?

So, Remi, my misguided phoenix, you shall not rise from the ashes of my past mistakes. I've erected a fortress of self-preservation, complete with a moat of skepticism and a drawbridge made of 'Nope, not today.' The God of Temptation can take a number and wait in line behind my common sense.

As I sling my purse over my shoulder, I descend the stairs. There, stands Ava, hairpins dangling like forgotten dreams. She's wrestling her unruly mane like it's a beast to be tamed, and I—being the benevolent sister that I am—decide to lend a hand. Or rather, a tug. A strategic yank here, a playful twist there. Ava's exasperated whine is music to my ears.

"What's the plan, Ava?" I tease, Ava whirls around, her expression a mix of irritation and amusement, and I know I've ignited a spark. She lunges at me, vengeance in her eyes. I sprint, zigzagging through the dining room like a caffeinated squirrel. Ava mirrors my every move, a doppelgänger in pursuit. We're a chaotic ballet—two prima donnas vying for the spotlight, spinning around the mahogany table.

And then, my pièce de résistance: the grand swerve. I feign left, she follows. But Ava, bless her heart, overshoots like a GPS with commitment issues. I seize the opportunity, vaulting over the sofa like a gazelle with questionable grace. My mother's voice echoes from the kitchen, "Girls, be careful! No broken bones allowed!"

But fear not, dear reader. The only casualty today shall be Ariella's dignity. I cackle—yes, cackle—because nothing says "mature sass" like a well-executed escape. Ava's whine trails behind me, a fading siren of her failing to catch me. And as I glance at the wall clock, I realize it's time for me to leave for Oxford.

"Mama, I'll take my leave now." I pick up my bags, and this time, instead of playfully tugging at Ava's hair, I give her cheek a gentle kiss. She responds with a smooch, which I wipe off, making her gasp.

Mama emerges from the kitchen, her eyes filled with sadness. She doesn't want me to leave, and truth be told, I don't want to go either. But it's for the best. I still haven't found myself. As she hugs me, her warmth and the faint scent of Chanel perfume create a cocoon of safety.

"I love you, Mama," I whisper, my face buried in her shoulder.

"I love you too, my sweet little Ari," she murmurs, kissing the top of my head.

Suddenly, Dad's voice comes from behind. "Don't you love me, flower?" he asks, and I turn to hug him tightly.

"I love you too, Dad," I reply softly.

Ava joins the hug, completing our circle of love. As we separate, I step into my car, feeling a mix of emotions. The gates of our home swing open, and through the rearview mirror, I see Mum leaning into Dad, his lips brushing against her hand, and Ava nestled close to him. They stand there, watching me drive away.

In that moment, I realize how blessed I am. Despite my past, despite the shadows that linger, despite the fact that I am a reincarnation of the person who almost destroyed them. This imperfect yet fiercely loving family has embraced me. Their unwavering acceptance is my anchor, and as I navigate the road ahead, their love remains my guiding star.  

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This chapter is short too. I know. I want to end this book and it's like 70% done. It's going to come to an end. But I don't want to rush it out. Please be patient with me. It's going to pick up it's pace soon. Mwuah <3