Seeing Ariana's hopeful gaze fade, Horace sighed inwardly. If Theodore persisted in this avoidance, he might risk losing her to another.

Ariana cast her gaze downward, her hand instinctively resting on her abdomen.

Although she had repeatedly counselled herself to be patient, her patience was beginning to fray.

Their ongoing separation only intensified her yearning for him. Despite reminding herself to remain patient and calm, the thought of Theodore would sporadically invade her mind.

She ached for his presence and missed him with every passing second.