NovelEnglish
Exasperation compelled Ariana to return the money, accompanied by a stern message promptly.
“I’ll have no choice but to block and remove you if this persists!” It was underscored by an irate emoji of
a kitten engaged in a petulant display.
The sight of the cartoon feline’s animated exasperation tugged at the corners of Holden’s mouth,
eliciting an involuntary quirk. At this moment, her vexation appeared endearingly childlike and
charming.
Perhaps pushed by an uncharacteristically good mood, Holden couldn’t resist prolonging the
conversation. One exchange led to another, ultimately segueing into a discussion about their children.
“Is the mantle of a single parent an arduous one to bear?” he inquired, recognizing the gaps in his
understanding of her life.
Interpreting his question through the lens of his own caregiving responsibilities, Ariana mirrored the
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtquestion, “And what about you?
Does the role of a single father prove taxing?”
Without hesitation, Holden responded with genuine candor, “Nothing tiring about it. Embracing
fatherhood brings me immense joy, and I aspire to be the best father I can be.”
Even before Ariana could formulate a reply, he added, “Though I suppose I don’t precisely fit the
definition of ‘single,’ as my daughter’s mother is very much present in her life.”
Following a contemplative pause, Ariana finally unburdened herself, her words flowing like a river’s
gentle current, “It’s heartening to hear that. Unlike my circumstances, I lost my son’s father before his
birth. To this day, I haven’t found the strength to reveal this painful truth to my son.”
“I’m sorry.” Holden’s reply dripped with empathy.
“I regret broaching this topic.
Ariana faintly smiled as she responded, “It’s alright. By the way, what led to your daughter falling ill?”
Holden hesitated for a moment. Then, finally, he gave just a vague answer, “Just a minor issue.”
Although he felt that Ariana seemed to be a good person so far, he didn’t want others to look at Adele
strangely.
Ariana didn’t delve further into the matter. She just gave a light advice, “As the seasons change, be
extra vigilant to keep your little girl warm.”
Absent-minded, Holden typed a “Sure” in response. He was preoccupied by his thoughts at the
moment.
Holden and Ariana chatted for a short while again before Ariana ended the chat. She had to get back to
revising the project proposal.
Alone in the quiet Living room, elbows on knees and fingers intertwined, Holden was deep in thought.
Shawn soon arrived with a tall glass of water and cold capsules. He looked at Holden thoughtfully for a
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmmoment and then said, “Sir, your nasal voice indicates that your cold is persisting. Please pay more
attention to your health.”
Holden nodded, and took a long sip of the refreshing liquid. After a brief thought, he opened his desk
drawer and retrieved a business card which he handed to Shawn.
“Do a background check on this organization,” Holden instructed.
“I’UL do that right away, sir.” Shawn took the card with a bow and then quickly read it. It was the
business card of a children’s charity foundation.
Two days later, Ariana received a notice from the variety show, requiring her presence for the beginning
of the filming scheduled for the following week. She only had a few days to prepare. She immediately
began assembling documents and checking personnel. She was doing several things at once.
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