Blue Light
NINETEEN

"I'm sorry to hear that" said Lana, after being able to calm down. Luke of course heard it, but he did not give any response.

Lana no longer knew what to say, this news was more shocking than when she knew who Diell was.

"Woman is your wife?" after settling for a few seconds, Lana still repeated it in the same incredulous tone.

"I think you should tell me everything, Luke. Lana did it earlier, and now it's your turn"

Neff looks even more excited now, as Luke's story will sound more normal than Lana's.

Sipping the rest of the coffee from his paper cup, Luke begins another long story.

"I met Anja when I was nineteen. He was a regular tourist who visited Grindelwald. She was a beautiful woman, and as usual, the foolish and shallow young man immediately followed her like a bee" Luke again smiled bitterly as he uttered it.

And of course Lana knew, that stupid young man was Luke.

"Short story short, I went through some general levels, and eventually Anja conceived Diell. It was the turning point of my life, I left behind all childish lifestyles. Then we started building Merian, building a tiny house for us to live in near Lake Bachalpsee. I'm trying my hardest to be responsible as a father and husband"

"When Diell was born, she was the prettiest creature I've ever seen. I adored him and kept promising myself to be a good father. But Anja is different, she's a city girl whose life was taken away because of Diell's presence. From the beginning Anja was hesitant about her decision to keep Diell, or about our marriage. But I naively kept promising happiness as well as love"

"Diell's presence contained Anja slightly softened, at least Anja was willing to stay for Diell. But it didn't last long. When Diell was three years old, Anja wanted to leave again, she could not survive the slightly monotonous rhythm of Grindelwald's life. Unlike Darla, the beauty of the mountains does not make it feel at home"

"But I again persuaded him to stay, because after all Diell needed a mother. And to be honest, we were both well aware that Diell was the only one who tied us up, the marriage was already unhealthy. I myself am tired of hearing his complaints and whining asking me to move away from Grindelwald"

"Maybe the factor of my busy life is building a newly developed Merian, also contributing to the deterioration of our relationship. My time is divided into two, namely for Diell and Merian. And as a result, Anja deflects her sense of disappointment at the worst possible chance, she chooses alcohol as a place of escape"

Finally Lana saw how Luke was now tormented, just like her, Luke's hand began to move uneasily.

"I've sent Anja to various rehabilitation facilities and also therapy, so that she can escape from the cursed drink.But as soon as she recovered, as soon as Anja also returned to being an alcoholic "

Their conversation about alcohol came to Lana's mind, now that she understood why Luke seemed to hate alcohol so much.

"When Diell was six years old, the accident happened" Luke fell silent for a moment, trying to remove the wound he had long covered.

"That day, I was in Zurich taking care of bank documents. I usually never leave Diell with Anja alone, but I have no other choice. Barnabas and Aubrey are also having other business in Bern. I almost cancelled the appointment, but Anja convinced me to leave. He even gave assurances that they would be fine and told me to leave immediately. At that time Anja was in the stage of recovery after rehabilitation, it had been a month that he was released from alcohol. He looks normal and healthy. I finally left for Zurich after believing Anja could take care of Diell. "

"But I grossly underestimated the effect of alcohol on Anja's brain. As soon as I left her, she downed nearly two bottles of wine she had somehow gotten from nowhere. His semi-conscious state, of course, made him ignore Diell. He didn't notice when Diell slipped out and played around the lake"

It was Lana's turn that grabbed Luke's hand, that hand had turned white, for with all her might Luke squeezed it to endure the grief.

"When I came home, I only found Anja who was lying drunk in the living room. In a panic, I searched Diell all over the house. But I was too late, I finally found Diell floating on the surface of the lake"

Lana who finally couldn't hold back the tears. He had guessed Diell had died of drowning, but hearing that languishing sentence from Luke's mouth made him unable to bear it.

Luke himself seems unable to continue his story. She could only duck, clasping Lana's hand tightly. As if seeking comfort from that touch.

"After the incident, Luke suffered from prolonged depression coupled with severe insomnia. Anja herself who has been unstable since the beginning, the situation is getting worse. His addiction reached an acute level"

Neff takes over Luke's story, seeing him noiseless.

Luke raised his hand, as a request for Neff to stop. He wanted to finish the story himself. The hope is that by telling Lana, she can escape from the dark shadow.

"After Diell's funeral, Anja and I moved to Merian. We cannot stay in that house without mourning Diell's death. We live in separate rooms, as you know, Anja's room is the room you're in"

"We didn't say hello to each other for months. I avoided it, not sure I would be able to hold back from talking to him. My anger at Anja is immeasurable, Diell died of her negligence"

"That day, Anja might not take it anymore. He banged on my bedroom door, asking to speak. Heeh---- speaking may not be the right word. We had a big fight. I clearly spilled all the anger I had been feeling for months, and Anja was the same. He also spilled a long list of complaints. Years of restraint to be in Grindelwald left him tormented, he stayed here only because I asked him to. But I also ignored it"

Lana heard regret there. But unlike when telling about Diell, Luke looks more able to control himself.

"The quarrel was actually very useless, because we both knew Diell died because of both of our mistakes. Anja of course is also very sorry, she may not be a good mother, but I know she loves Diell and Diell loves her very much too. That's why I always keep him from going"

"I don't know what changed from Anja after the fight between us. But that night, he decided to end his life. He hung himself in his room"

Luke took a deep breath and released it with a loud voice.

"Darla first discovered Anja. And after Neff confirmed Anja died by suicide, the three of us agreed to keep the incident a secret. For Grindelwald's people, Anja died of illness"

Lana can still clearly remember how Anja died, and hearing what was the background of her actions, making Lana even sadder.

"The two of you should have realized that the story of the two of you is almost similar" Neff said in a wise tone.

Luke and Lana looked at each other with confused eyes. They didn't understand what Neff meant.

"The two of you are 'damaged' by guilt" Neff explained.

In Lana and Luke's heart they agree, but they don't, because Neff seems to want to continue his explanation.

"Luke's situation may be better than yours, Lana. Because he's learned to accept all that, and you should be the same. Learn to accept that Rozh won't be happy if he finds out you're like this"

There was nothing wrong with Neff, and Lana would gladly try her advice. But it still won't explain what makes Lana can shine blue when night falls.

"When will our plane leave?" luke asked Neff while looking at the watch in his hand.

"About three hours. We need to get to the airport" Neff replied.

"You don't want to be ready? Isn't there anything you want to bring back?" Luke turned his gaze to Lana.

"I? Why should I be prepared?" Lana asked back in surprise.

"Because what I meant by 'we' earlier, it includes the name Solana Fayra. I've booked tickets for you too. And I hope you don't cancel, because I can only book first class tickets. It's expensive" Neff said, showing Lana the screen of her phone.

There is a ticket booking on behalf of Lana for flights to Switzerland.

"Wait on!! I never said I'd be back with you guys" Lana said, and it was honest.

Lana's happy to solve Diell's misunderstanding, but that doesn't mean she's going back to Grindelwald. There was still a chance that the blue light would strike anyone close to it.

Lana can't go back there.

"Are you joking Lana?! You think I'm gonna let you be here alone?" Luke becomes impatient, as Lana's stubbornness returns.

"I've risked your life Luke, aren't you afraid? I don't know when and how to prevent that blue light from attacking humans again!"

"And didn't I say I didn't care? I'll bear the risk" Luke tightened his jaw.

"But why? You don't have to do it" Lana remained firm on her stance.

Next to Lana, Neff had already covered his face, while Luke laughed at Lana's question.

"After everything I've done to you, you're still asking why? You didn't realize it?"

"Aware what?"

"I did it because I love you, Lana. Do you understand now?" luke said calmly and clearly.

This was the umpteenth time Lana was speechless. His eyes winked softly when he heard Luke say it.

Of course he knew what Luke meant, but Lana never thought.

He thought Luke's kindness was only as a friend. Hadn't Luke and Neff's nearby existence all along just because of fate?

"I know you're very good at Lana's academics, but your social experiences really suck" Neff said, laughing at Lana's glare.

Neff's words, made Lana realize that what Luke said was reality, not her dream that suddenly went wild.

Lana's heart slowly warms, happy, but still at the same second, Lana suppresses the taste. He still remembers, if his feelings would lead Luke into danger.

Unfortunately Luke can see the direction of Lana's mind.

"I'll repeat it, Lana. I won't care what happens next, I won't back down just because of your 'unique' circumstances'. You can try to dodge, but I'll keep chasing wherever you go. And like today, I will definitely find you. No matter what time I spend, I'll keep looking"

Lana's heart felt torn when she heard Luke's threat.

Half of her heart desperately wanted to cry because she was moved and happy to find Luke's feelings so deep, but half of her heart still could not stop worrying about Luke's safety

"I know you guys like to be a little pushy, but you've crossed the line. So forgive me if I sound rude.  Shouldn't you also consider my feelings? I do not love you, your existence will only make me uncomfortable. So sorry, you two better go!!"

Ruthlessly killing her happy feelings, she put on as flat a face as possible when saying it. No matter how his heart bleeds, because of that evil lie.

"And you think I'm gonna trust your little charade?" Luke's voice was filled with a tone of ridicule

"Don't be stupid, Lana. I know exactly how you feel. And just so you know, I'm not here to say love, I'm chasing you here to answer your feelings. I still remember clearly how you screamed with all your might if you loved me"

Luke says all of that in a triumphant tone.

He crossed his legs and looked at Lana, whose face had turned pale, Luke guessing that Lana could not remember when he said it.

"You guys better finish this conversation quickly, in the meantime I'll buy lunch for all of us" Neff said, standing up and grabbing her coat behind the door.

He didn't want to be a crooked goat in that room full of love.

There was no need to worry about Luke, after all, she was the number one female conqueror. Lana won't have a chance to refuse.

Neff managed to attract the attention of Luke and Lana, now they both look at him with unblinking eyes.

"You know what, I was the first to come to Aubrey's house and find you wrapped in a blanket?" Neff pointed at Luke, and he nodded.

"And don't get me wrong, I noticed this because I thought you had a bruise on your face"

Neff was clearly enjoying their curiosity, and deliberately extended his sentence.

"Neff!!" Luke is impatient.

"Well, when I found you, I saw a pink, cherry-flavored stain on the corner of your lip.  Of course we all know, if it's a lipstick stain. Honey, due to the lack of evidence, I cannot conclude with certainty, who had presumptuously kissed Luke while he was fainting"

Neff ended the story while giggling amusedly.

"Ohhh. Don't worry, I remember it well. Lana wears pink lipstick with a cherry scent that day"

Luke lifted his thumb towards Neff, who was laughing increasingly loudly, while opening the door and walking out.

Neff had never told me about this before, and was glad to have chosen the right moment to reveal it.

With satisfaction Luke looks towards Lana, whose face is now also as bright as cherry, her self-control has been damaged, because of Neff's story.

Lana did not expect that a kiss mixed with tears would cause her lips to fade.

Of course, according to Luke it is an adorable sight. With a big smile, he leaned his body towards Lana.

"Well, Ms. Fayras. Do you want to tell me something? Because I'm so sure, kissing someone without permission, is included in the sexual harassment case. But I'm a very airy man. I might be able to consider not making demands" Lukas said, in a satisfied tone.

Her victory over Lana was perfect, Lana couldn't avoid it after all.

On Lana's face was a mixture of upset feelings, but Luke could still see the fear there. So Luke again put on a serious face and grabbed Lana's hand.

"Lana-" Luke called out to her gently.

"I heard when you were trying to save me Lana, I was within the threshold of consciousness, but I could hear clearly, you were begging in tears for whatever was attacking me to stop"

"I was so panicked back then, I just said whatever might make the attack stop" Lana let out a very weak rebuttal.

"A panic full of despair like that, will not be able to make someone lie Lana. That situation just makes you act honestly. You open all the doors of your feelings freely. And believe me, when you say you love me, I feel so happy"

"I felt very inappropriate back then, because when the cold supported me, I felt warm and happy instead. Happy to know how you really feel" Lukas continued.

"But... What if it happens again? I can't lose you either"

Lana's frantic tears trickled back, but Luke quickly wiped them away.

"I like your honesty like Lana now. Simply saying you're worried about my safety is enough to make me happy. No need to lie by saying you don't love me. That hurts"

Luke grabbed a pinch of Lana's long hair and played it with a smile.

"I'm sorry, but I'm so scared-you could die from that fog"

"I knew. And I'm sorry, maybe my actions look presumptuous. But I was forced to figure out who you were in detail when you disappeared. I already know what happened to your mother"

Luke feels uncomfortable if he has to keep this from Lana even longer.

"You already know, and you're still looking for me?" Lana widened her eyes.

Luke nodded, "I cannot possibly ignore a sweet girl, who has shouted her love for me"

Luke tries to make Lana smile, but fails, as Lana's eyes still radiate fear.

"When the attack happened, I couldn't do anything. My body is paralyzed by fear. I could only watch as my mother's body jerked in pain trying to draw air into the body. My father was there at the time, but the blue fog that came out from inside my body, also surprised him. When we both came to our senses from the shock, Mom's situation was already very severe, she couldn't be helped anymore"

Lana again does something that Luke dislikes, which is crying.

But this time Luke did not forbid it, or try to prevent it. He simply pulled Lana into his arms, There will be no words that can comfort Lana.

"Is that why you left?" luke asked, after Lana looked calmer. Lana nodded.

"After mom's funeral, dad always dodged me. He always comes home at night, and leaves early in the morning. At first I thought it was her way of dealing with the grief of losing Mom. After a few weeks, I finally understood. Dad avoided me because he was scared"

"At the time before that incident, I tried to convince my mother of my ability to see the spirits of the dead, and of course they both thought my story was a harbinger of a relapsing madness. But after seeing that blue fog, dad probably realized that everything I said was real. She finally chose to dodge, and stopped caring about my circumstances"

Lana wiped her own tears, before Luke's hand moved.

"I chose to get out of the house, knowing that my departure would bring peace to my father's life. At least that's all I can give dad, he also deserves to live quietly after all the suffering I've inflicted on him"

Lana's emotions were stirred again, and her crying went back out of control, bringing more tears. And once again Luke could only embrace her.

He wouldn't be able to understand how Lana was feeling right now. They may both lose someone, but the feeling of being wasted and dumped as Lana feels, is very foreign to Luke.

"Go back to Grindelwald Lana, there are many people who really care about you. Joan, Erich, Neff, even Darla. And of course there will be me who will never dump you, no matter what happens" Luke whispered, as he stroked Lana's back, trying to make her cry subside.

Lana broke away from Luke's embrace, and looked at him with a wet face.

"But what if the fog was-it-"

"To be honest, I was scared too" Luke cut Lana's sentence.

"I saw how a fog could suffocate my internal organs, with a very cold chill. It was the first time I had experienced something that could not be explained by reason. But is that enough to make me want to stay away from you? The answer is no" said Luke, unequivocally.

"After we return to Grindelwald, I promise we will come together to find answers to all the riddles of your circumstances. How's it?"

In addition to having a hobby of forcing the will, Luke is also actually an expert in persuading.

"Back Lana! I can't stand the thought of you having to live alone in this loneliness, let alone having you go back to living a very unhealthy life" Lukas said, while pointing at the refrigerator that only contains hard bread and jam setoples.

"Can I live my life like everyone else?" lana asked as she wiped the rest of her tears.

"Of course you can, you've been living a normal life for Lana. We just have to be more vigilant and find out what's causing that blue fog to come out"

Lana looks back busy thinking, she has to consider all possibilities.

And this was the first time he felt he had any hope of living a more normal life. All of Luke's words make sense.

"Please Lana.." urged Luke, impatiently.

Luke's phone in the pocket, again vibrating, most likely Neff is reminding, about the departure of their plane.

After a long talk, Luke was finally able to see the thing he wanted the most, a soft nod from Lana's head. He agreed to return to Grindelawald.

Like Neff's prophecy, Lana can't run away from Luke.

Luke could not hide his joy. Once again he grabbed onto Lana's body, and hugged her very tightly.

"And that nod will also count as the inauguration of our relationship" Lukas said as he looked at Lana and smiled brightly.

"How can you?" lana protested, she was actually just embarrassed, considering she was the one who first expressed feelings.

"Oh come on, don't tell me you've forgotten" Luke grumbled in annoyance. But Lana shook her head pretending not to understand.

"Well, I'll repeat" Luke held up his seat and held Lana's hands together.

"I love you Solana Fayra, and remember, the feelings and promises I said today will apply forever, therefore never dream of escaping from me" Luke said, which immediately made Lana look down embarrassed.

Lana's social experience is very minimal, especially in romantic relationships, the number is zero.

But looking at Luke's sparkling eyes in earnest, made Lana's heart sucked into a sense of comfort and happiness. Lana has no desire to resist or reject him anymore.

"I love you too, Luke Merian" said Lana, before turning red.

"Now, I will repay you" said Luke, as he slowly pulled Lana's chin.

Without giving Lana a chance to think, Luke brushed Lana's pale lips with his. The kiss was supposed to be short, but Lana's lips were more intoxicating than Luke thought.

Slowly, he walked down those sweet lips. And the innocence of Lana's lips while replying to Luke's kiss, making her more excited, she freely directs Lana according to her wishes.

Luke removed the lips, only after he felt Lana sting due to lack of oxygen.

Lana looked down embarrassed while trying to breathe normally, "You....!!" he actually intended to scold Luke, for daring to kiss him without warning.

But his brain can't work together. The amount of endorphine that was released due to the kiss, made Lana's body seem to float.

"I will happily repeat it again, but unfortunately we have to leave Lana soon" Lukas said in a mixed tone of disappointment and annoyance.

He pulled the phone out of his pocket, which once again shook, revealing a message from Neff telling him to hurry.

Seeing Lana who had not recovered from the kiss earlier, Luke could only smile amusedly.

Finally Luke took the initiative to pack Lana's belongings, on a suitcase lying near the bed.