Ari was proud. She learned from a young age that she needed to be independent, resourceful and resilient. She learned not to rely on anyone but herself to accomplish any task, mission or goal. Nobody was going to take care of her except herself. She had grown to accept the fact she would not be truly loved because of who she is and what she is.
Imagine her surprise when Steven Wolford popped into her life. What started off as journalistic curiosity on his part when he discovered the Arbiter had a daughter, turned into genuine interest the more he learned about her. The moment they met face-to-face, his world turned upside down. Despite everything she had done to both their family and others, he saw a wounded and lost soul there that needed the comfort of someone who could empathize and forgive.
He was persistent and sometimes bothersome to Ari, but his sappiness and romantic fervor won her over in spite of herself. She had never known someone so devoted and earnest in his affections than Steven. She was everything he had ever wanted in a girl. There were rare times she would let down her guard and enjoy the moment with him - allowing him to pamper her in ways she never thought she'd get to experience. It was a special moment because Steven knew she'd never reveal this vulnerable side to Taylor or anyone else. She was proud, and he understood that. It was their little secret.
