The stifling ambiance was enough telltale of the death sentence waiting to be unleashed on her downstairs. Nonetheless, Arianna walked into her slaughter calmly and without fear - a trait she learned from being with Marcel. Her boyfriend could charismatically walk through the valley of his death without flinching. And so, Arianna refused to be intimidated into making a decision she didn't want to.
This was the time to stand up to her mother now and forever.
"Mom. Eric. " Arianna announced her presence. She then walked over to where Natalie was seated and though the woman was as stiff as a block of wood, it didn't stop her from pressing a kiss to her cheek. Natalie didn't complain even though Arianna knew deep down, she knew what she did.
Unfortunately, that kiss was reserved only for Eric and Arianna merely said, "Welcome," to her stepfather. The both of them hadn't grown close enough to exchange kisses.
