Ariana forced a smile, turning her gaze towards Sonia.

"You don't have to worry about me. Right now, all I want is to raise my boy and witness him grow up."

Sonia sensed the forced nature of the smile and longed to offer more comfort, but she found herself unsure of where to begin. This matter seemed beyond her ability to meddle.

“By the way, what are your plans now that you're back?" Sonia swiftly changed the subject, gently wiping the table as she asked.

Ariana replied as she tidied up the dishes, "I plan to shift the focus of my media production work to our country. It's already in the preparation stage."

Throughout the years, Ariana had dedicated herself to investing in Melcorn, steadily amassing a substantial capital. Now, her heart burned with the ardent desire to return to her homeland and start her own talent agency.

"You really are a workaholic," Sonia teased playfully. She knew that over the years, Ariana had become completely engrossed in her work and raising her child.

Ariana's studies and certifications were exclusively centered on children, specializing in fields such as certified children's nutritionist and children's psychological counselor. She was resolute in ensuring Melon's healthy growth.

Yet, Sonia also empathized with Ariana's underlying need to keep herself constantly occupied, perhaps to ward off the haunting specters of past nightmares.

Sonia reached into her bag to retrieve an elegant invitation letter.

With a warm smile, she handed it over to Ariana, saying, “Here, it's a new variety show presented by BRD Group. This exceptional show revolves around talent agents searching for undiscovered gems and nurturing them into artists under their own prestigious banners. Picture this: the agents will mentor and train the chosen amateurs for a brief period, culminating in a dazzling competition where they'll showcase their singing and dancing abilities. The victorious team will earn the extraordinary opportunity to take part in BRD Group's major production."

“It's truly a rare and magnificent chance," Sonia continued, her voice tinged with pride.

"As a renowned media talent myself, I was personally extended this invitation. If you're looking to expand your reach in the domestic market, you absolutely cannot afford to miss this golden opportunity.”

For many, collaborating directly with the illustrious BRD Group was nothing short of a dream come true. The prospect both tempted and filled Ariana with hesitancy, caught between desire and caution.

After all, working with the BRD Group would inevitably lead her to encounter Holden.

Ariana's quizzical expression caught Sonia's attention and she asked, "What's up? Such a golden opportunity, not the sort a workaholic Like you would readily pass up on."

Ariana heaved a sigh.

"Truth be told, I'm not much inclined to partner up with BRD Group, and encountering Holden is perhaps the last thing I want."

Five years had slipped by without contact, rendering them strangers now. Moreover, Ariana had steered clear of anyone from her past associated with Theodore, lest it stir up the anguish and desolation in her heart.

Adding to this, her thoughts wandered to the little girl she had met at the mall earlier that afternoon. It dawned on her that if Sadie was treating Adele that way, it might be because Holden did not Like Adele, who had autism.