Unknowingly, Ariana's grip on her phone tightened, her face paling without her awareness.

With determination, she asserted, "I won't believe you again. I've made that clear enough!"

“Hmph!" Helen scoffed, "Your children's fate and your own are at stake.

Believe me or not, it's your call!"

Before Ariana could respond, Helen issued a chilling warning, "Don't let Theodore catch you, or your unborn children will be in danger!"

In a daze, Helen seemed to recall something and absently touched her chest. She spoke, her tone haunted.

"You wouldn't want to face Theodore's madness.”

Ariana wanted to inquire further, but just then, Theodore returned from the study, startling her. Hastily, she ended the call.

“Hmm? Who were you talking to?" Theodore asked.

Ariana's heart leaped into her throat, and she unconsciously clutched the phone in her hand more tightly.

After a moment of hesitation, Ariana found herself at a crossroads and decided to tread the path of deception.

She placed her phone down calmly, explaining, "Oh, it's just Sarah. I woke up early and couldn't fall back asleep. Since you were not around, I thought of giving her a call to pass the time.”

“Really?" Theodore smiled and casually asked.

But Ariana's nerves were on edge. Swiftly, she hid the truth, adopting a coquettish tone, “Of course. Since you're seldom here, who else can I turn to?"

Her hand brushed her belly as she spoke.

“I'm hungry.”

Theodore's smile widened, and he gently ruffled her hair, showing no sign of suspicion.

"Alright then, let's get up and have a meal.

Everything is ready. Afterward, we'll prepare for the hospital visit and surgery."

The mention of the surgery made Ariana's heart skip a beat, suddenly losing her appetite.