CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY: ECSTASY

Ariana’s expression softened as she looked into Jonathan’s eyes, a mixture of emotions swirling within her. They had been through so much together, weathering storms that had threatened to tear them apart. Yet, here they were, standing in the quiet of their home, facing each other with a raw honesty that had been absent for too long. Jonathan reached out tentatively, his hand extending toward Ariana as if seeking reassurance that she was still there, still willing to bridge the gap that had widened between them. “Ariana,” he began, his voice low and tinged with regret, “I’ve made mistakes. I’ve hurt you in ways I never intended.” Ariana nodded slowly, her gaze steady as she processed his words. She had been hurt, that much was true, but beneath the hurt lay a flicker of hope, a longing for the connection they had once shared. “Yes,” she replied softly, “you have.” “I’m sorry,” Jonathan continued, his voice wavering slightly. “I should have been there for you more. I should have put