Arianna glared at Brittany's noncommittal expression. "You impress me. After all these years, you're still chasing loneliness?" She found it hard to comprehend someone who dared to pursue and someone who dared to refuse. It was a simple choice: be ruthless or give up. Brittany's persistence was self-defeating.

"Let's not dwell on that. What do you think? Do I still have hope?"

"It depends on your perspective. Do you want him physically, or do you want his love?" Arianna asked, turning to Brittany.

Brittany furrowed her brows. "Nonsense! I want the whole man!"

"The problem is, you don't have him. If you could choose only one, which would it be?" Arianna waved a finger. "You can't be greedy. Do you want to be with him forever, even without his heart? Or do you want his love, even if you can't be together?"

This stumped Brittany. She'd spent years chasing Alexander, wanting him entirely—body and soul. But Arianna was right; she couldn't have both. She had to let go.

"I want him physically!" Brittany declared after considering it. "What's the point of his love if I'm not with him? That's torture! I want to be by his side, always! He'll love me eventually!"

Arianna smiled and nodded. "I think you're right."

"Then how do I get him?" Brittany asked.

A loud quarrel erupted downstairs, echoing throughout the house.

They exchanged a look. Arianna rose and headed for the door. After a moment's hesitation, Brittany followed. Reaching the stairwell, they peered down into the living room.

Below were two familiar figures: Arianna's parents. Brittany recognized them from previous visits. Usually calm and dignified, they were now arguing vehemently.

"No, I'll never agree!" Eloise said, struggling to maintain control despite her rising emotions.