148. Maximillian

Ariana suddenly straightened her shoulders. The woman turned, her smile still on her face. Her left hand reached out as if to welcome Gerald. "Good morning," she greeted so softly. Gerald took her hand, and Ariana's hand moved to wrap around his waist. Her crimson lips gently met his, igniting an instant passion in Gerald. He didn't want to let go of the kiss his wife had given him; he responded by embracing her waist and wanting to kiss her even deeper. However, Ariana placed her hands on Gerald's chest and pushed him gently. "Embarrassed in front of the children," she whispered.

Gerald furrowed his brow. Children? he wondered silently. He followed where Ariana looked. There, he saw a little Ariana, laughing, taking hesitant steps, chasing Axel, who was still trying to tease her by moving back and forth in front of the beautiful toddler.

Gerald widened his eyes for a moment. But the light was gone. All that remained was darkness. He woke up in his bed at Zeroun's residence. His bre