“Thank you," Ariana murmured.

“That's how you express gratitude? Not good enough." Theodore clucked his tongue, slightly displeased. A mere "thank you" didn't suffice after he had lent his help.

Ariana looked at him and asked, "What do you want, then?”

Did he need anything else? It seemed like he didn't require the things that she had.

Theodore chuckled and motioned for her to come closer.

Bewildered, Ariana took two steps toward him and found herself drawn into Theodore's embrace.

She landed on his lap and instinctively placed her hands on his shoulders to prevent herself from falling.

“What... What are you trying to do?" Ariana stuttered, avoiding his gaze.

“Nothing. I just want my reward." Theodore tenderly lifted her chin with his slender fingers, while his other hand pressed her back, drawing her nearer.

The atmosphere grew increasingly charged. Their lips were about to meet, and the air seemed to thin inexplicably. The only sound was their unsteady heartbeats.

As they were on the verge of kissing, Ariana pushed him away and stood up abruptly.

"There's a shoot at the racecourse later. I need to take Tyler to familiarize himself with the location beforehand."

Afterward, she quickly ran away.

Theodore was so furious that he nearly jumped up to chase her. Luckily, Horace arrived just in time to restrain him.

“Boss, Miss Clarke has arrived.”

Theodore's eyebrows furrowed. He wasn't pleased that Helen decided to come here without his permission, but he still asked Horace to let her in.

They hadn't seen each other in a long time. Ever since Theodore moved out, he seldom returned to the mansion. When he ever did drop by, he would quickly grab what he needed and then leave as quickly as he came.

When Helen's eyes laid upon Theodore, she began to choke into sobs.

“Theodore! I'm so happy to see you again. I've been so bored in the mansion."

Helen's face was pale and gaunt, and she didn't look very well. She looked weaker than the last time he saw her.