It was a sight that startled him. Mr. Fredrick was known for his resolute demeanor, his smiles few and far between.

Holden's smile was now as warm as a cozy hearth, a stark contrast to the cold exterior he typically projected. In the past, this particular smile was exclusively reserved for Adele.

Before he could utter a word, Shawn noticed that Holden's phone was on speaker mode.

A child's voice wafted from the device, addressing Holden with a term of endearment that sent a jolt through Shawn.

What in the world? Did Mr. Fredrick have a hidden family?

Shawn dared not probe or linger. He set down the documents and left.

Holden was wholly engrossed in his conversation with the boy. An unfamiliar sensation tugged at his heartstrings.

Though he was only playing a role, the heartfelt sweetness in Melon's voice as he called him "daddy" touched Holden on a deep level.

It was as though he had stumbled upon a lost treasure. Sadness would set in when he figured that it was all an illusion.

Holden was surprised that the little boy was Melon.

He had never been one to believe in fate, but learning that the boy was none other than Melon felt like an alignment of stars.

Ariana's voice, the same voice he had been yearning for half a year, had been right there all along!

Then, Melon's words cast another shadow.

"Yesterday, Mommy gave me a number to call, but it was disconnected. I thought you had left me."

Inexplicably, Holden's heart ached at those words. Softening his tone, he consoled, "Abandon you? Never, Melon. It was my mistake. I changed my number without informing your mommy first. That's why I'm calling you now."

At that moment, Melon questioned, “Why aren't you talking to Mommy?"

Ariana and Holden were both taken aback. Ariana mustered an awkward smile and inquired, "Have you been resting well lately?"

"I'm fine," Holden replied earnestly.

They continued to navigate the conversation with a sense of unease.

Seeing this, Melon frowned.