Sensing his intention, Ariana swiftly disentangled herself from his embrace, retreating to another sofa, creating a physical divide between them.

Before Theodore could react, Ariana had slipped away from his grasp, leaving him to gaze at her with a forlorn expression.

With seriousness etched on her face, Ariana locked eyes with Theodore, her voice measured and resolute.

"Tell me, Theodore. Why did you keep Marley's true identity as your sister hidden from me? Did you find pleasure in watching me fumble in the dark, searching for the truth?"

Theodore was at a loss as to what to say about the suffering that he had been through.