Chapter 504 When the Past Comes Knocking

• Ariana's POV:
• There was a time when Stefan used to keep old photographs—faded, worn pictures that captured the delicate smile of a young woman who'd once called herself his mother. But now? It's like they vanished into thin air.
• I don't know exactly when it happened, but whether it's his bedroom or the study, there's no trace of those memories anymore. I've looked, quietly, carefully—but came up empty-handed. And before Stefan could catch on, I gave up the search… for now.