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?"

His voice was like a deep bass note that reverberated through her body, sending shivers down her spine. The sound was so seductive that it made Ariana's heart race.

Despite her efforts to resist, Ariana found herself powerless against Theodore's charm. She always liked beautiful voices, and now she was completely mesmerized by his charming voice.

Pushing Theodore away, Ariana's face blushed like a ripe apple.

"What are you doing? Don't take advantage of me," she said in a faltering voice.

However, Theodore's reply came in a fierce tone, his words dripping with sarcasm.

“What? You prefer younger men to call you like that?”

He then called her name in different tones, his voice becoming increasingly strange and playful.

It was obvious that he was making fun of her and teasing her relentlessly. Ariana was annoyed and frustrated by his childish behavior, her patience wearing thin.

"Shut up, Theodore! Can't you act your age for once?” she scolded him.

Ariana's face flushed with embarrassment as she clamped her hand over

Theodore's mouth, silencing his taunts. As she removed her hand, she quickly realized the reason behind his behavior and checked her phone.

Sure enough, there was a call from an unknown number that lasted only a few seconds. Ariana's intuition told her it was Tyler, as she had given him her number earlier that day.

It all made sense now why Theodore was acting out.

With a gentle cough, Ariana shifted her gaze toward Theodore, who appeared perturbed, and spoke softly.

"The person you heard on the phone is Tyler Brewer, Betty's younger brother. I'm going to sign a contract with him. He's been through a lot lately. His sister had attempted suicide a few days ago, but fortunately, she was saved. Concerned for his family's wellbeing, I gave him my number, thinking he might require my assistance."