As she tiptoed toward the kitchen, Ariana's mind was preoccupied with what to cook for Theodore. She decided on a light, easy-to-digest porridge, and some fresh vegetables, but the question of whether there were any fresh ingredients in the fridge lingered in her mind.

Just as she was about to leave the room, Theodore's voice broke the silence, calling out a name that Ariana didn't recognize.

"Marley," he murmured, his voice barely audible.

Ariana's grip on the doorknob faltered as she hesitated before turning back to the bedside. Theodore's chest rose and fell rhythmically, his peaceful slumber undisturbed by her presence. She imagined his faint murmur, a figment of her exhausted mind.

Frowning, Ariana rubbed her temples, acknowledging the heavy weight of fatigue that had been pressing down on her for days. Her mind was playing tricks on her.