On the other end of the line, Holden expressed gentle concern, feigning ignorance, and inquired, “How did you sustain your injury?

Who did it?”

Ariana provided a succinct and matter-of-fact account, addressing each question with precision.

Nevertheless, the person on the other end of the line remained steadfast in his role as a concerned husband, causing Ariana’s cheeks to flush with embarrassment and shyness.

Noticing Ariana’s blushing countenance, Melon grew immediately concerned and urgently asked, “Mommy, why are you blushing? Are you running a fever? Should I call the doctor?”

For a protracted, uneasy moment, Holden, on the opposite end of the phone, lapsed into silence, a pause that Ariana also endured.

lay bare her vulnerabilities in such a manner,

in a few more strained pleasantries before deliberately

It’s high time I retired for the night. We’ll chat again

Ariana flung the phone aside as if it had scalded her, cradling her

A ‘s L I B R

seemed to resist cooling while that voice, eerily reminiscent of Theodore’s, was still in

need of distraction, Ariana switched on the television, only for young

sleepy? Why are you

the boy roughly, she sank her teeth into his

word from you, starting this very

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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