Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas) novel Chapter 654

"There's something you want to discuss with me?"

The mood in the car suddenly changed. Nicholas felt a bit flattered—after all, he didn't have much of a standing in Ariana's life at the moment.

"Yes."

Nicholas straightened up, his demeanor turning serious. "Go ahead."

From his resolute posture, it seemed as though he would do anything Ariana asked—even give up his life if she demanded it.

I looked deeply at Nicholas, weighing my thoughts carefully before finally speaking my mind. "I want to adopt a child."

Nicholas's stunned expression froze on his face. He didn't expect me to say such a thing. But he quickly regained his composure, responding in a calm tone.

"Ari, we've been through a lot lately. I don't think now is the right time for you to decide to adopt a child.

"It's not just because you're currently unfit to bear a child physically. It's also because Tabitha doesn't necessarily need another child as a companion for a healthy upbringing. I think you need to reconsider this idea."

He paused before continuing, "Adopting a child means taking responsibility for their entire life. You have to ensure that you can provide the same love and care to them as you do to Tabitha.

"Otherwise, growing up in an environment of favoritism can harm a child's emotional and mental well-being..."

Nicholas wanted to say more, but I quickly interrupted him. "Nicholas, it's not what you think. Please, let me explain..."

He opened his mouth but swallowed his words. "Go on."

"It's not because I can't have children that I want to adopt one..."

"Then why?"

"I've carefully considered everything you said just now. I'll raise this child as if they were my own. I can take good care of them!"

I emphasized, "This isn't about Tabitha. I just want to adopt this child—to take his father's place and watch him grow up."

Nicholas sighed, pulling me into his embrace. "I've seen the child—he looks about five or six years old. Though young, he seems mature for his age.

"He takes after his father, with a determined look in his eyes. He'll grow up to be a fine person.

"Initially, I thought about assessing the relative to see if they'd take proper care of him. If they were trustworthy, I planned to give them a large sum of money. But since there's a better option, I'll support your decision."

I lifted my head from Nicholas's chest, looking at him with surprise and delight. "Do you really support my decision?"

Lowering his gaze, Nicholas looked at me and said, "Before I give you my approval, I need to ask you one last question..."