“Alright. You can handle that and then head home. I have everything under control here."

“Understood.”

A short while after Horace departed, Ariana returned.

The sight of the table spread with a veritable feast left her pleasantly stunned. She was amazed at Theodore’s quick evolution from a novice at three dishes and a soup to an adept steak chef.

Each dish, to her surprise, was her favorite.

A rush of joy overwhelmed Ariana. She ran over and enveloped Theodore in a warm embrace, pressing her face into his chest.

“How did you know I'd return famished?"

Grinning, Theodore leaned in to plant a tender kiss on her forehead. He then playfully ruffled her hair, saying, “Let's eat."

They settled down to a delightful, candlelit dinner, their Laughter filling the room. They tactfully skirted the contentious issue of the previous night: having a child.

Ariana understood that regardless of Theodore's anger or disappointment, the fact of her pregnancy was irreversible. The most critical task at hand was to handle the situation effectively.

Staring at Theodore in the warm glow of the candles, she acknowledged his significant transformation for her sake. She chose to believe that his reluctance to become a parent stemmed from deeply personal reasons.

Once the Anderson Group matter was resolved, she would have a thorough discussion with hin.

Reflecting on the tense atmosphere at the Anderson Group that day, Ariana inquired, “Did you take some action against the Anderson Group?"

Unflinchingly, Theodore nodded.

"Yes, I did. I'm pushing the Anderson Group toward bankruptcy.”

He paused, then turned to Look at Ariana.

"Do you think I'm heartless? After all, Darian is technically my father."

His eyes, fraught with nervous anticipation, held Ariana's, awaiting her verdict.

Ariana merely shook her head.

“He deserves it. He's committed numerous unethical deeds," she comforted him, yet a hint of worry crept into her voice.