“What's wrong? Is it difficult to answer this question?" she prodded.

"If you love her, just express it. How could she know if you don't tell her?"

Theodore was about to respond when Ariana, unable to bear the tension any longer, abruptly cut in, "I'm full and I feel exhausted. I'll head back, you two continue."

With a hasty apology, Ariana bolted from the room, leaving Theodore staring after her in silence.

The landlady shook her head, her lips pursed in a knowing smile.

"She's your wife, isn't she?” she remarked wryly.

Theodore tummed to the landlady, his expression a mix of disbelief and confusion.

Sighing, the landlady leaned forward, her voice low and sympathetic.

"I may be old, but I'm not blind. You two may not have exchanged many words, but the way you looked at each other—it was obvious that there was still something there. Your wife is scared. She wouldn't have fled the room if she didn't care."

Theodore was lost in contemplation, his mind chuming with conflicting emotions.

“You're fond of her, yet you refuse to admit it. I can see you're rich; your life is one of luxury and comfort. If it weren't for that woman, you wouldn't have rented this old apartment at such a high price." The landlady's sharp perception was uncanny, and she was quick to identify the crux of their relationship.

"Although I don't know what transpired between you two, I've lived long enough to know what young people like you go through. As a man, it's important to know your heart's desires.

There's no shame in putting aside your pride to win the heart of the one you love.

Otherwise, you'll live with regret when they're gone."

The landlady heaved a heavy sigh. Rising from her chair, she made a move to tidy up the table but Theodore intervened, waving her off.

“Leave it be. The housekeeper will take care of it."

Though she respected Theodore's wishes, the landlady couldn't help but carefully store the uneaten food in the fridge before departing.

“You and your wife must come downstairs someday, and I'll make something delicious for you two," she said, her voice filled with warmth and sincerity.

Theodore accompanied the landlady to the door, a faint smile adorning his lips.

“Well, you go have a rest." The landlady waved her hand and descended the stairs with nimble steps, chattering to herself, "It's good to be young. I remember my husband was also stubborn."