The weight of the secret became palpable as they walked side by side, and he wrestled with the conflicting emotions within him. He couldn't bear the thought that the love he held for Ariana might inadvertently lead her down a path of regret in the future.

Suppressing the ache in his heart, Theodore gracefully maneuvered the car, drawing closer to Ariana.

"I really don't want to return to the hospital," Ariana expressed, a touch of frustration seeping through her words.

“Being confined there all the time feels suffocating, and honestly, I think I'm better now, at least physically.”

With genuine concern etched on his face, Theodore inquired, "Then where would you like to go instead?"

After pondering for a moment, a spark of joy illuminated Ariana's face, and she adorned a heartwarming smile.

“I want to go home. I miss Judy's cooking."

Caught off guard, Theodore had not expected such a reply. He hesitated for a moment before asking cautiously, “Really? You're willing to go back?"

"Yes," Ariana affirmed with a nod, displaying her unwavering determination.

With a playful glint in her eyes, Ariana couldn't resist adding, "But let's keep the apartment, just in case. Who knows, if you ever manage to infuriate me, I might run away and hide there."

Theodore chuckled warmly, his voice filled with affection.

“Alright, I own the entire floor of that apartment, so it'll be ready for you whenever you want to stay there."

Before long, Theodore and Ariana made their way back to the grand Andersons' mansion.

As they stepped inside, Ariana was taken aback. The house was bathed in a warm glow, and she was pleasantly surprised to see that all the previously dismissed staff were back, as if they had never left. It felt Like she was going back to the very first moment she had arrived here, only this time she was going back home with the person she loved.

Judy, the housekeeper, couldn't contain her joy at seeing Theodore and Ariana coming back together. She hurriedly took the things from their hands, embracing Ariana in a heartfelt hug.

“You appear to have lost even more weight. Have you not been eating well?" Judy inquired without giving Ariana a chance to respond.

"Are you hungry? Let me cook you some late-night snacks.”

A grateful smile adorned Ariana's face as she nodded in response. After indulging in the delicious late-night snacks Judy had prepared, she engaged in a heartwarming conversation, catching up on everything that had transpired since her departure.

Following the delightful treat, Ariana retired to her old room.

However, upon opening the door, she was taken aback to find her belongings gone.