After the words escaped her lips, Ariana instantly regretted her question. Every mention of Marley seemed to stir deep wounds in Theodore's heart, Leaving him visibly troubled.

Nonetheless, relieved that he appeared composed, Ariana couldn't resist her surprise and curiosity.

“But why would she make such a decision?"

Theodore hesitated, the past haunting him like a ghost that refused to be silenced.

“After my mother's departure, Marley and Darian were both scarred, emotionally wounded to their cores."

Perplexed, Ariana probed further, "But why would Darian be affected too?"

With a heavy sigh, Theodore delved into the painful memories.

"In those days, Darian drove my mother to madness, confining her within the mansion's walls with no compassion. Her mental state deteriorated, and in her vulnerability, she suffered the unthinkable, violated by a servant, which led to the birth of my half-sister, Marley."

The anguish in Theodore's eyes was evident as he continued to recount the sorrowful tale.

Ariana gently reached out and consoled him, saying, “We don't have to talk about this if it's too distressing."

She felt empathetic and guilty for unearthing these painful memories.

But Theodore shook his head and pulled Ariana closer, seeking solace in her embrace.

“It's alright. These burdens have been buried deep within me for years. Having you here to share them with me provides a measure of relief."

Ariana reciprocated the hug, lending her support in silence.

Theodore resumed his narration, “Darian viewed Marley as an embarrassment, a child born out of wedlock. Consequently, when she came into this world, he abandoned her in a far-flung town, handing her over to an elderly couple who yearned for a child. He even stripped her of the Anderson surname, and she became Marley Deleon, taking her foster parents’ name."

Ariana's mind started connecting the dots, all the pieces falling into place like an intricate puzzle.

Thoughts of the small stone house and Lilyana’s words came together, making perfect sense. She couldn't help but comment, “Marley must have found some happiness in that little stone house.”

Though devoid of Luxury, she had parents who cherished and cared for her, providing the love and attention any carefree child would desire.

To a young soul, having Loving parents was the epitome of happiness.

Theodore nodded in agreement, acknowledging that those moments in the small stone house might have been the most joyful ones in Marley's life.