“What's that in your hand?" Theodore demanded abruptly, his piercing gaze trained on her.

Ariana froze, realizing that she still clutched the business card in her hand. Hastily, she balled it up and tossed it into the nearby wastebasket, feigning nonchalance.

“Nothing, just an advertisement flier that was handed to me while I was out," she replied, hoping her voice didn't betray her nervousness.

“You went out today?" he asked, his tone inscrutable.

“Yes, I went out for a walk." As Ariana tried to suppress her guilt, she swallowed hard and summoned the courage to ask about Theodore's well-being.