“Perhaps it's not the worst thing to have no family," she murmured to herself, although the ache in her heart suggested otherwise.

She subconsciously placed a hand on her lower abdomen, grateful that at least she had the baby growing within her.

Trying to find solace, Ariana closed her eyes and attempted to calm herself, but her thoughts swirled and tumbled, leaving her in a state of confusion.

Ariana couldn't help but wonder if Theodore would hold Judy accountable for her sudden disappearance. Perhaps he would even call her to interrogate her.

The mere thought made her heart pound like a jackhammer, and a pang of anxiety swept over her. If he did call, what tone would she use to answer him?

Would he let her return to the mansion?

But then she shook her head, feeling foolish for having such thoughts. After all, why would he care? Maybe her departure had solved his problem.

As for Judy, Ariana vowed to personally apologize if she got the opportunity.

As the night fell, the starry sky outside her window seemed to mock her loneliness.

Ariana sat there, staring into the emptiness, waiting for Theodore's call or text, but none came.

As her heart began to cool, Ariana started to feel ridiculous. What made her think that he cared for her anyway?

The initial sadness soon transformed into a burning anger, and she resolved to treat herself with the utmost kindness. If no one would love her, she would love herself.

With a decisive click of her phone, Ariana ordered a lavish meal for herself. The thought of taking care of herself was so refreshing, it made her feel like a brand-new person.

After satisfying her appetite and indulging in a comforting bath, Ariana felt much better. She still checked her phone periodically, though, hoping that a text or call would come. But the phone stayed silent, and as the night wore on, she started to feel drowsy.

Suddenly, her phone chimed with a new message. Ariana bolted up in bed. She lunged for it, eagerly checking the screen, only to feel a pang of disappointment when she saw the sender's name wasn't Theodore. It was Holden.

Confusion replaced her disappointment as she wondered why Holden had messaged her so late. They had not talked in days, ever since she celebrated his birthday. She couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue as she stared at the message.

What could he want?

She clicked on the chat box, and her eyes scanned the short line of words.

"Are you asleep?"

Ariana's heart raced as she gazed at the message from Holden.