Chapter: 669
Theodore’s hand became moistened by the weight of her teardrops, the sensation of warmth emanating from his fingertips.
Each tear that fell pricked at Theodore’s heart, yet he found himself at a loss for what to do. He hastily enveloped Ariana in his
embrace.
His heart ached, and he made several attempts to speak, but found himself lacking the words to console her. All he could do was
hold her tightly and repeat, “I’m sorry... it’s my fault...”
Ariana stood frozen, stunned by Theodore’s direct apology. It was the first time she had witnessed him in such a vulnerable
state, causing her tears to momentarily cease. Sniffing, she inquired, “What did you do wrong?”
“I... I shouldn’t have spied on you, interfered with your freedom... shouldn’t have made you cry,” he muttered, his voice muffled
by Ariana’s neck.
At his words, Ariana’s heart constricted, and she clasped Theodore’s hand with greater intensity. “So, these past few days, were
the people you sent to follow me for surveillance or protection?” she questioned.
Theodore fell silent for a moment before finally responding, “The fire was intentionally set, and we have yet to uncover the
mastermind behind it. However, there’s a possibility that they might strike again.”
As he straightened himself and locked eyes with Ariana, he continued, “They’re targeting me, but it might involve you.”
Though he didn’t explicitly state it, his explanation resonated clearly—it was for her protection.
Ariana fixed her gaze upon him, searching his eyes for any trace of anxiety. She detected a hint of worry, as if he still feared her
reaction to whatever troubled him.
It tugged at her heart, leaving her with a bittersweet ache.
When had the esteemed Theodore ever exhibited such vulnerability? She never asked him to lower himself for her sake. She
loved him just the way he was, flaws andall. ©
Clasping Theodore’s hand tightly, Ariana felt a newfound conviction. Whatever had transpired outside the hospital had been a
misunderstanding. She believed now that he didn’t wish to keep an eye on her, but to protect her.
With unwavering determination, she peered into Theodore’s eyes, as though a decision had been made within her. “Theodore, I
have one more question for you.
Do you truly love me?”
“Tlove you.”
This time, Theodore didn’t hesitate for a moment. His voice held firmness and determination, yet his eyes revealed an even
deeper, unwavering love.
“Okay.” Leaning against his hand, her soft skin caressing his palm, Ariana locked eyes with him, refusing to break their
connection. “Theodore, let’s leave the past behind us. I can accept your stubbornness, your dominance, your possessiveness. If
you wanted to place a GPS on me, I would comply.”
Her words caused Theodore’s eyes to tremble slightly, a blend of joy and restraint.
Ariana’s response and willingness to compromise filled him with overwhelming happiness, yet her words also weighed on him.
He no longer desired to confine a free bird within a gilded cage. A caged canary could never experience true happiness.
Before Theodore could utter a word, Ariana pressed on, her voice steady. “However, all of this hinges on one condition. I need to
understand what you’re hiding from me. Who is Helen, and who is Marley? As long as you tell me, | will believe you.