Ariana had the strength to live without Theodore. So, maintaining the peace, even if it was built on an illusion, felt right. This way, the Theodore in her memories remained hers, loving her unconditionally.

A sob escaped Ariana, her face hidden in her hands. Her voice was a mere whisper, filled with pain.

“I just miss him so, so much."

Every word she uttered only added to her guilt and heartache.

“Maybe I made a mistake. If I hadn't run for help that day, perhaps I'd be with him right now. We wouldn't be worlds apart," she said.