Ariana smiled affectionately, steadying the boy while patting his head. Taking his small hand in hers, she cautioned, "Remember not to run off later. Stay right by me."

Melon obediently nodded as they entered the sleek lobby.

The familiar space stirred memories of Ariana's first anxious interview here years ago, though it now felt like a lifetime away.

As they ventured further inside, her thoughts meandered to Holden.

Recent unpleasant events had entirely soured Ariana's opinion of Sadie, dragging her view of Holden along with it.

She hadn't encountered Holden during her last visit, and she hoped to avoid him today as well. Facing him would be a challenge, especially considering his fiancée's hospitalization because of Sonia.

Since Ariana had no intention of apologizing to Sadie, the prospect of running into Holden now seemed terribly awkward. The very thought tied knots in her stomach.

Just then, a small crew waving equipment flagged Ariana down as they hurried over.

“You must be Ms. Edwards! We're your team for the interview today," they chimed, a prearranged arrangement Sonia had informed her of.

Ariana recognized the trio from her friend's workplace and greeted them warmly, while Melon piped up, “Hello everyone!"

Instantly charmed by the boy's manners, they responded, "What an absolutely adorable little darling!" They gathered around, engaging in a lively chat with Melon as they all crowded into the elevator.

Upon reaching the bustling studio, Ariana spotted the celebrity she was set to interview, Simms Riley, already present and undergoing makeup application.

Given Simms' fame, Ariana approached him politely, attempting to make her introduction.

“Hello Mr. Riley, I'm Ariana, your interviewer for today."

However, Simms remained engrossed in his phone, disregarding her presence.

"I have another event to get to after this, so let's make it quick," he muttered distractedly, not even bothering to glance up.

Despite the dismissal Ariana faced, she maintained a serene smile as she withdrew her hand gracefully.

With her extensive tenure in the entertainment industry, she harbored no illusions about the nature of those around her.

Moreover, she was eager to conclude the interview swiftly. Not wanting to encounter Holden, she harbored no desire to prolong her stay within the BRD Group.

Silently, Ariana left her conversation with Simms, choosing to focus her attention on Melon. Gently placing Melon on a nearby chair, she crouched down and reminded him, "Stay here, sweetheart. Mommy's about to conduct an interview. You must be patient and wait for me, alright?"