Theodore's hands lacked delicacy, bearing the marks of years spent in the realm of public affairs and physical training. A thin layer of calluses graced the pads of his fingers and the base of his thumbs. As those rough hands made contact with Ariana's smooth face, a tingling sensation coursed through her.

At the sound of his question, a ripple disrupted the peace within Ariana's heart.

Particularly, the large hands caressing her cheeks imparted a profound sense of safety, yet it also unleashed an uncontrollable cascade of tears.

Before Ariana could utter a word, tears spilled down her cheeks, descending in solitary drops. Contemplating the children growing within her belly, with the man before her as the main culprit, she suddenly voiced her grievance, imbued with a sense of injustice: "It's always you, from the very beginning to the bitter end. You've been tormenting me relentlessly. Ever since I married you, every tear I've shed has been because of you."

Theodore's hand became moistened by the weight of her teardrops, the sensation of warmth emanating from his fingertips.

Each tear that fell pricked at Theodore's heart, yet he found himself at a loss for what to do. He hastily enveloped Ariana in his embrace.

His heart ached, and he made several attempts to speak, but found himself lacking the words to console her. All he could do was hold her tightly and repeat, "I'm sorry... it's my fault..."

Ariana stood frozen, stunned by Theodore's direct apology. It was the first time she had witnessed him in such a vulnerable state, causing her tears to momentarily cease. Sniffing, she inquired, "What did you do wrong?”

"I... I shouldn't have spied on you, interfered with your freedom... shouldn't have made you cry," he muttered, his voice muffled by Ariana's neck.

At his words, Ariana's heart constricted, and she clasped Theodore's hand with greater intensity.

"So, these past few days, were the people you sent to follow me for surveillance or protection?" she questioned.

Theodore fell silent for a moment before finally responding, "The fire was intentionally set, and we have yet to uncover the mastermind behind it. However, there's a possibility that they might strike again.”

As he straightened himself and locked eyes with Ariana, he continued, "They're targeting me, but it might involve you."

Though he didn't explicitly state it, his explanation resonated clearly—it was for her protection.

Ariana fixed her gaze upon him, searching his eyes for any trace of anxiety. She detected a hint of worry, as if he still feared her reaction to whatever troubled him.

It tugged at her heart, leaving her with a bittersweet ache.

When had the esteemed Theodore ever exhibited such vulnerability? She never asked him to lower himself for her sake. She loved him just the way he was, flaws andall.

Clasping Theodore's hand tightly, Ariana felt a newfound conviction. Whatever had transpired outside the hospital had been a misunderstanding. She believed now that he didn't wish to keep an eye on her, but to protect her.

With unwavering determination, she peered into Theodore's eyes, as though a decision had been made within her.

"Theodore, I have one more question for you.