Chapter 4 He Knew It

Ariana was in shock that Theodore would suggest an abortion. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless.

Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"

To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."

Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious.

Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"

Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."

The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor.

Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son.

Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation.

Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."

He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object.

Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state.

"Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff.

Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore.

They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together.

But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper.

After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge.

Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness.

She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."

Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it.

Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms.

His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses.

As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer.

Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be.

"You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear.

He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then stroked her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover.

The intimate gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race.

Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."

Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her.

Ariana could feel his heartbeat pounding against her chest, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell.

What did he mean by this?

She suddenly felt a tightening around her neck as Theodore's fingers closed around her throat, constricting her breath.

Her face grew pale as she gasped for air, tears welling up in her eyes.

The pressure on her neck was unrelenting as if he intended to leave bruises on her skin.

Theodore's voice was low and menacing as he growled, "Did you enjoy flirting with Jasper in front of me?"

Theodore's grip on Ariana's neck became more and more intense as if he was trying to squeeze the life out of her, his fingers digging into her delicate skin like sharp claws. She was like a chicken who was about to be slaughtered ruthlessly.

Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room.