612: NO EXCUSE

ARIEL'S POV I opened the door, and I was absolutely stunned when I saw Luke standing there, a tentative smile on his lips. I hadn't expected him to show up at Tessa's house, of all places. Like, how did he have a knowledge of the way here, and how did he come here so fast after our call? What in the world was going on here? "L-Luke?" I stammered, taken aback by his sudden appearance. He nodded; his expression was a mix of hope and uncertainty. "Hey, Ariel. Can I come in?" I blinked, still processing his presence. "How did you know I was here? And how did you find this place?" Luke chuckled softly. "It's quite simple, really. I'm a billionaire, remember? I have my ways." I frowned; there was a great combo of frustration and disbelief. "That doesn't answer my question, Luke." He sighed, his shoulders slumped slightly. "Look, can we talk inside? Please?" I hesitated, torn between the desire to shut him out and the lingering curiosity about what he had to say. Before I could respon