Greatest Son-in-law's Evolution: Back so soon

CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THREE

Xander stood at the crossroads, his mind racing as Ariel"s words replayed in his head. He wanted to ignore her pleas and continue on his walk, but her pleading eyes and pouting lips tugged at his emotions. He could feel the anguish and longing in her eyes, and he couldn't force himself to reject her.

He had just gone for a short stroll, hoping to clear his mind and escape the chaos that had overrun his life. Lina, his girlfriend, would be waiting for him at the hotel room where they had spent the night before. But now, faced with Ariel's plea, he was divided between wanting to meet Lina and feeling guilty for ignoring his old acquaintance.

"I'm sorry, Ariel," he finally said, the words heavy on his tongue. 'I just can't do it right now.'

Ariel's pout intensified, and she bit her lower lip, a motion that Xander recognized all too well. She was on the verge of tears, and he couldn't stand to watch her cry.

'That's not fair, Xander.' she said, her voice full of despair. 'I am not aski