A mix of emotions washed over him: happiness at the possibility that Ariana might be instrumental in helping Adele, and curiosity about what drew the child to Ariana so intensely.

Recollection struck. Ariana was a child psychologist. However, he hadn't been made aware of this earlier. He turned to Shawn, seeking answers.

"Didn't the background check reveal Ariana's occupation as a psychologist?"

Shawn responded promptly, "She used an alias during her tenure at the institution. Our probe emphasized the institute and her professional history, not her personal details."

Nodding, Holden absorbed this information silently.

Devin chose that moment to step into the room. Catching sight of Ariana on the bed and Holden nearby, he paled.

Concern buzzed in his mind. Had Ariana and Holden crossed paths too soon? As anxiety welled up, Devin discreetly eyed Holden for any telling signs.

Had Ariana recognized Holden and lost consciousness due to the shock?

However, gauging Holden's demeanor, Devin found it as stoic and unruffled as usual, showing no hints of recognizing Ariana or any abnormal. developments.

Catching Devin's sudden unease, Holden regarded him with a quizzical look.

"Is something wrong, Devin?"

Quick to mask his worry, Devin replied, "No, I just came here in haste. Nothing more."

Relieved to see Holden remained unaware, Devin regained his composure.

“Sir, there's an urgent matter in Mistlyn requiring your personal attention. We should set out for Mistlyn at once."

Normally, Holden would have prioritized company affairs and left immediately. But a glance at Ariana's inert form made him pause.

After a contemplative silence, he instructed Shawn with a subdued tone, "Stay and watch over her."

Caught off guard by this unexpected directive, as he had intended to travel with Holden, Shawn surmised how deeply Holden was involved in Ariana's well-being.

Maintaining his professionalism, Shawn queried, "Do we proceed with Adele's therapy in your absence, or await your return?"

"Why delay?" Holden replied with conviction.

“Having gone through Ariana's records, I'm confident in her capabilities. And given the bond Adele has already established with her, it's an avenue of treatment we must explore."