And with that memory, a new revelation struck her.

It was Holden.

The cadence of Holden's voice echoed Theodore's, and there was a resemblance between their features, a similarity Melon had once remarked upon. A fanciful notion danced at the edges of Ariana's thoughts.

Could Holden be Theodore?

Almost as swiftly as the thought surfaced, Ariana dismissed it, a wry twist touching her lips, dismissing the idea as preposterous. How could such a connection exist? Theodore, the heir of the esteemed Anderson family, tethered to the Fredrick lineage? It defied reason.

If Theodore held any close ties to the Fredrick family, surely Darian would have showered him with favor, not the cold indifference he had received.

Furthermore, if Theodore were truly Holden, retribution would have been well within his grasp. Why would he have had to fight against Darian for so long?

The pieces simply didn't align. How could Holden possibly be Theodore?

Besides, when she was with Theodore five years ago, Holden had been also around.

Upon reflection, Ariana noted an absence — an incongruity. Theodore and Holden had never materialized together. Moreover, Theodore had seemed entwined with the BRD Group and Adrian, a connection that bore a semblance of congeniality.

Ariana's thoughts churned in turmoil. She sought to steady herself, feeling a touch of absurdity for ever entertaining the notion that Theodore and Holden were one and the same.

But she couldn't control her mind.

If, by some twist of fate, Holden truly was Theodore, how had he allowed her to endure half a decade of suffering?

A gentle touch on Ariana's arm jolted her back to reality.

Adele, looking up at her, reached out her hands.

Comprehending Adele's silent request for a hug, Ariana adjusted her demeanor, offering a warm smile as she stooped down to lift Adele into her arms.

Shawn trailed behind them, his own smile bright as he remarked, "Miss Edwards, what a pleasant surprise. Adele spotted you and couldn't resist coming over."

Returning the smile, Ariana inquired, “And where might you and Adele be headed?"

"We're off to a charming dessert shop nearby," Shawn replied, “It happens to be one of Adele's favorites.”

He then turned his attention to Sarah and Sonia, who sat beside Ariana.