Theodore remained silent for a moment, disregarding her anger. He retrieved a larger velvet box and gently pushed it toward her.

“Open it. I believe you'll like it."

Ariana opened the box to reveal a bracelet adorned with numerous sparkling small diamonds and a large purple diamond fashioned in the shape of vines. At the edge of the clasp, there was a nameplate intricately designed in the form of a small key.

"| designed it myself and have been preparing it since last month. Your name is engraved on the nameplate.” Theodore spoke softly, his gaze filled with tenderness.

“Allow me to put it on for you."

This time, Ariana didn't refuse. She simply let Theodore fasten the bracelet around her wrist. She couldn't bring herself to reject the gift. After all, it was his own design.

She pursed her lips, her fondness for the gift evident in her expression, even without uttering a word.

After securing the bracelet around her wrist, Theodore didn't immediately release her hand. Instead, he cradled it within his own palm, gently caressing the back of her hand with his fingertips, as if reluctant to let go.

They hadn't shared any intimate contact in days. Ariana longed to embrace him and seek solace in his arms, behaving like a vulnerable child. But she couldn't. Her anger towards him still lingered, and she couldn't compromise on her principles.

Retracting her hand, she feigned indifference.

"Are you so certain that I would come tonight? What would you do with this gift if I didn't show up?”

“I'm not certain whether you'll come or not," Theodore responded, a bitter smile playing on his lips.

"But I'll wait until eleven o'clock. If you don't arrive, I'll have someone send this gift to your apartment."

“Can't you deliver it to my home yourself?" Ariana couldn't help but ask, a tinge of anger in her voice. When did he start keeping a distance from her?

He remained silent for a moment before finally speaking.

"If you don't come, it means that you don't want to see me."

The air grew heavy with a suffocating gloom, casting a pall over the room.

Beneath the table, Ariana's hands grazed the engraved nameplate. Etched upon it were not just her initials, but Theodore's as well, entwined as if forever bound.

She had no idea whether Theodore was trying to reassure her or if he just wasn't ready to give her the truth. Didn't she merit his trust?

Tears welled in Ariana's eyes, unbeknownst until Theodore's gentle touch graced her cheek.