______________________________ . . . The moon cast a soft glow over the Kalmekriz estate as Ariel stood on the balcony, the cool night air wrapping around her. She knew that the time had come for her to reveal the truth to Victor, to lay bare the secrets that had burdened her since the beginning of their relationship. With a determined breath, she entered their bedroom to find Victor sitting by the window, lost in thought. His expression was distant, his eyes reflecting a mixture of weariness and contemplation. Ariel's heart ached at the sight, knowing that the revelation she was about to share would shake the foundation of their marriage. "Victor," she said softly, her voice breaking the silence. He looked up, his gaze meeting hers with a mix of curiosity and concern. "Ariel, is so

