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 moment 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.

Whilst she was busy preparing, her phone suddenly vibrated. It was a message notification from a group chat. The message was from Sarah.

“My last tour date was postponed, so I'll be back in Eleymond this afternoon! Anyone available to meet up and have fun?"