Even she ignored their grievances momentarily, Horace’s reluctance to divulge any information and Theodore's avoidance of the matter also played a part in Ariana’s internal struggle.

After wrestling with her thoughts, Ariana shook her head and replied, “I apologize, but I cannot disclose that information at this time."

Mitchel refrained from pressing the matter further, simply nodding in acknowledgment.

“Respecting patient privacy is an admirable trait. I just wanted to caution you that medications of this nature often carry side effects and the potential for dependency and addiction.”

It dawned on Ariana why Horace had mentioned Theodore’s addiction issues. It seemed he had been reliant on this medication for quite some time.

Concern etched on her face, Ariana couldn't help but ask anxiously, “What happens if the patient stops taking the medication abruptly?"

“Abrupt cessation of this medication can trigger mood disturbances such as extreme shifts in personality, paranoia, and irritability.”

Mitchel's response was disconcerting. Receiving this answer, Ariana's mind immediately connected Theodore's erratic behavior and peculiar displays. After a brief pause, she tentatively ventured, "Could the withdrawal reactions from the drug be responsible for extreme possessiveness or controlling tendencies?"

Pondering for a moment, Mitchel nodded in contemplation.

“It is indeed plausible. Ordinary individuals may experience some negative and eccentric emotions and desires, but they typically remain within manageable boundaries. However, the components of this medication disrupt self-control, eradicating emotional boundaries and amplifying existing negative emotions."

As Mitchel spoke, Ariana began to piece together the puzzle.

Theodore's automatic response in the hospital when he retrieved the medication hinted at a long-standing reliance and the likelihood of numerous side effects.

And when Horace saw this medicine, he repeatedly implored Theodore not to take it, indicating that they were already aware of its severe adverse effects and that Theodore had already developed a dependence and addiction to it, so he was very Likely to be withdrawing from it now.

Could Theodore's previous behavior, his surveillance methods, control desires, and extreme actions all be attributed to the medication, causing him to Lose control completely?

And judging by Mitchel's tone, the side effects of this medication should be highly dangerous. And yet, Theodore never truly harmed her.

Perhaps... he was also struggling to maintain control over himself.

As Ariana pondered this possibility, memories of Theodore's restrained and disciplined gaze flooded her mind, causing her hand to involuntarily clench.

Theodore had been fighting to suppress the effects of the medication, but what had she done?

Ariana was consumed by overwhelming regret. If only she had known about these circumstances earlier, she wouldn't have reacted so strongly when she discovered Theodore was monitoring her. Nor would she have uttered those harsh words, unknowingly hurting Theodore during those moments.

And now, she had no idea where he was. Could it be that he had secluded himself, out of fear of losing control, to confront these emotions alone?