Theodore's grip was tight, his fingers pressing into the soft flesh of Ariana's waist.

With his other hand, he gently lifted her chin, forcing her to look into his eyes. The coldness of his stare sent shivers down her spine, and when a sneer curled at the comer of his mouth, Ariana's heart pounded in her chest.

"Is it true," he asked, his voice low and dangerous, "that you prefer someone younger?”

Ariana was dumbfounded by Theodore's sudden accusation. She couldn't fathom what made him think that she preferred someone younger.

Before she could protest, Theodore leaned in close and whispered sweetly, mimicking a young boy, "Hello, Ariana?"