The baby was unexpected but it was already inside her. She couldn't bring herself to get rid of it.

But then she remembered what Theodore had said the night before.

It was either him or the baby.

By the time Theodore finally came back, it was already dinnertime.

They chatted and ate as usual, before doing their separate things. Several times, Ariana approached him, ready to tell him but each time she held back.

She sat on the sofa and watched him talk on the phone across the room. Just then, she decided to keep it to herself for the time being.

*

Only after the weekend passed by did it begin to feel real. She now felt like a mother.

She made an effort to eat meals at regular times, didn't stay up late, stopped wearing high heels, and took the medicine behind Theodore's back.

She knew she wouldn't be able to hide it for long, but she wanted to delay the inevitable as much as she could.

On Monday morning, Ariana came into the company with a hearty breakfast.

As she came in, she noticed an old couple quarreling with Brielle by the elevator. She couldn't tell what the argument was about but both sides were speaking with raised voices and looked aggressive.

Beside the couple stood a handsome young man, about 16 years old, who was staring fiercely at Brielle. It was as if he was a wolf cub, ready to pounce on Brielle and tear her up any second.

Ariana stayed for a moment and asked the onlookers what was going on.

"Did Brielle mess with someone again?"

“It's all because of the incident that happened yesterday. Betty Brewer, Brielle's assistant was seriously injured. She was badly disfigured by the sulfuric acid, and she lost an eye. Her family is here for an explanation."

Brielle was annoyed having been pestered by Betty's family for two days straight.

She had planned to give them money to settle the matter but they seemed crazy. They were calling her around the clock and showed up in person today.

“Betty had only just started working and was disfigured by sulfuric acid. She's so young. This isn't something we can just let go." Betty's father stood in front of Brielle, grief-stricken and angry, blocking her way.

Brielle gripped her bag tightly, trying her best to hold back her temper.