67. Open Up

Ariana knew she had misspoken. She was upset with herself for saying it, but the words couldn't be taken back.

"Why did you bring up your sister's name?" the man asked, clearly trying to contain his anger. "Didn't we agree to start fresh?"

Ariana fell silent. She didn't know what to say. An apology wouldn't fix the situation at all, so she chose to remain quiet.

Gerald seemed reluctant to continue the conversation. He pretended to be engrossed in the meat grilling on the barbecue.

Soon, he placed the fragrant and delicious-smelling steak onto a plate, adding vegetables as a side.

"Does camping like this remind you of Chris? Is that why you said Karenina?" Gerald asked sharply. Ariana looked up, and at that moment, he handed her the plate.

Ariana accepted the plate and murmured her thanks. She placed it on the square table between them.

"Chris and I don't have any relationship," Ariana replied flatly. Gerald continued to stare at her with sharp, probing eyes. "To me, he's just a