Rin wagged her tail and gently nuzzled Ariana‘s palm.

The soft touch helped dissipate Ariana's wariness to some extent, and witnessing Rin's joyfully wagging tail, she mustered the courage to pet her a few more times.

Noticing Rin's growing excitement, Theodore became concerned that she might Lose control and jump on Ariana. In response, he issued a command, "Rin, sit."

Rin seemed initially reluctant, emitting low whines, but eventually complied, moving away from Ariana's hand and settling into a sitting position.

Ariana was further amazed, her gaze fixed on Rin, as she exclaimed, “She's so well-behaved and attentive to your commands."

“I rescued her from a trap when I first came to this place. She got separated from her pack, so she's grown quite attached to me. I ventured into the woods Late today to feed her," Theodore explained, all the while continuing to stroke Rin's head.

With her neck proudly straightened, Rin wagged her tail even more energetically, evoking a growing fondness within Ariana. She couldn't resist petting Rin a few more times, gradually viewing her as a loyal and obedient companion, no Longer harboring fear.

However, Ariana's emotions remained somewhat complicated after Theodore's earlier revelation.

As she absentmindedly stroked Rin without glancing at Theodore, she casually inquired, "Do you often come here?"

Only the whisper of the wind remained in the depths of the woods.

Theodore took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding with a soft, “Mhm."

“I come here once a year." He spoke gently, as if expressing a casual fact.

Ariana's curiosity piqued as she inquired, "For a vacation?"

Rather than answering directly, Theodore countered, “What brought you here?"

The mention of this made Ariana feel a surge of anger and suffocation, but she managed a chuckle and replied, “It's not as if it's private property. You can come, so why can't 1?"

Theodore regarded her with a hint of amusement in his eyes. He opened his mouth to speak, but before any words could escape, Ariana huffed and stormed ahead, Leaving him behind.

Undeterred, Theodore followed closely, stepping in line with her as they walked. He couldn't resist asking, "Did you come looking for me?"

Ariana chose not to respond, refusing even to turn her head towards him.

“I thought I heard someone calling me just now. Was that you?" Theodore persisted, his curiosity driving him forward.

No matter how many questions he posed, Ariana remained silent, her anger fueling her swift pace.