Helen was a master at hitting her where it hurt. Ariana had to concede that even if she claimed it didn't matter, she still cared about the decade-plus history shared between Theodore and Helen.

Helen scoffed, lifted her chin, and haughtily declared, "If Theodore learns that you're pregnant, he'll force you to abort it."

“Whatever you say." Ariana didn't believe Helen's words and had no desire to entertain her any further. She turned to leave.

Ariana chose to believe that Helen was trying to sow conflict between her and Theodore, rather than accept that he would pressure her into an abortion. Although Theodore wasn't the most affectionate partner, Ariana couldn't imagine him being so heartless as to abandon their child.

Despite attempting to convince herself not to trust Helen's claims, Ariana couldn't help but tremble. Her heart felt as if it were gripped by an unseen force, inciting panic and unease.