Holden struggled to understand the whirlwind of feelings he was experiencing, sensations that pulsed and electrified his heart.

Seeing her in person was different from glimpsing her in photographs or videos. The emotions were stronger, more intense.

His eyes caught a stray strand of hair clinging to her cheek, wet from her tears. Without even thinking, Holden's hand reached out, as if drawn to brush it aside.

Holden's fingers almost touched Ariana's face, the warmth of her skin almost palpable. But suddenly, he pulled back as if jolted awake.

Regaining his senses, confusion and frustration welled within Holden.