Chapter 3 Awakening

Theodore stirred awake, jolting both Ariana and Jasper.

Jasper, his face already flushed with anger, seized Ariana's arm. "You lied to me, didn't you? I wasn't crazy; Theodore woke up last night, right? That's why you're acting so strange today!"

Ariana didn't bother explaining. She scoffed, yanked Jasper's hand away, and followed the maid without a word.

Jasper was seething with anger, but he didn't dare to chase after her. He could only watch as Ariana's figure disappeared into the distance, clenching his fists in frustration before venting his anger on a nearby flowerpot, kicking it over.

The Anderson mansion was an expansive estate adorned with vibrant flowers. Simply walking through the corridors took several minutes. Theodore resided in a secluded villa behind the garden, surrounded by a serene environment with plenty of sunlight and lush trees, providing the perfect setting for his recovery.

However, Ariana couldn't find it in herself to appreciate the beauty around her. Anxiety consumed her thoughts, leaving her mind in disarray.

She couldn't be certain if Theodore had truly awakened the previous night, and if he had overheard her conversation with Jasper.

If he had...

The mere thought sent a chill down Ariana's spine, intensifying the chaos in her mind.

She was aware that Theodore was not someone she could afford to offend. Rumors circulated about Theodore, painting him as a ruthless and all-powerful individual, and those who crossed him often met a grim fate.

"Mrs. Anderson, we have arrived," The maid's voice brought Ariana back to reality.

Before her stood a white iron gate. Ariana took a deep breath and slowly entered the villa, coincidentally running into Darian who was rushing back.

Ariana greeted him quietly, and Darian responded with indifference before they entered Theodore's room together.

A group of doctors surrounded Theodore's bed, conducting an examination.

After the examination, the lead doctor sighed. "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, his illness still lingers, particularly in his legs. The injuries are severe, and he won't be able to walk normally in the future. Rehabilitation will be a long process."

"Are you saying he's physically impaired now?" Darian asked, disbelief etched on his face.

Ariana furrowed her brow slightly, sensing a hint of relief on Darian's face.

"Yes," the doctor regretfully confirmed.

"I see. You may leave now." Darian waved his hand, dismissing the doctors. He then turned his attention back to Theodore, a rare smile gracing his face once again. "You need to rest and not worry about anything. I will find the best doctors to treat your legs. You have nothing else to concern yourself with."

With that, he called Ariana to Theodore's bedside. "From now on, you'll be looking after Theodore."

The way he phrased it made Ariana feel as though she was merely a caretaker.

Theodore reclined against the headboard, his gaze cold and aloof, devoid of any emotion. His handsome face was emotionless, projecting an air of indifference that sent shivers down one's spine with just a glance.

It wasn't until then that he raised his eyes coldly, his sharp gaze sweeping over Ariana before fixing on Darian. "Who is she?"

Such a concise question left Ariana at a loss, unsure how to address Theodore, let alone introduce herself.

After all, their marriage was just a trade with no love at all. Therefore, Theodore might divorce her at any time.

If he really did, Ariana's plans for revenge would crumble.

"She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian answered.

Theodore's expression soured further, a sneer curling his lips. "I don't recall having a wife. Where did you dig up this impostor?"

"I arranged it for you. It's public knowledge," Darian insisted.

But Theodore remained unconvinced. "Then let's dissolve this farce! Not just anyone deserve to be my wife. If you need someone to care for me, hire a nurse!"

Tension hung thick in the air. Darian's countenance darkened, his jaw clenched as if battling his rising ire. "Divorce is out of the question."

Theodore chuckled derisively. "Darian, what gives you the authority to make decisions on my behalf?"

Even to the most obtuse observer, it was evident that their relationship was strained.

Ariana stood awkwardly to the side, feeling utterly superfluous.

Darian trembled with suppressed anger, his voice low and tinged with menace. "This matter is settled. Ariana has recently undergone insemination. There's a possibility she's carrying your child now!"

Upon hearing this, Theodore finally turned his gaze towards Ariana, assessing her like a commodity.

After a moment, he chuckled softly, his tone flippant, and casually asked Ariana, "Surgical or medical abortion, which do you prefer?"