“We've got your back; stand strong!"

“We believe in your truth, Ariana!"

The emergence of Mitchel's photos online was like tossing a pebble into a still pond; ripples spread quickly. The snapshots of this handsome intellect drew masses of admirers in no time.

"He's got the looks and the brains? That's my new favorite combination," a smitten admirer commented.

"He's the whole package, isn't he?" another quipped, a touch of jealousy in their tone.

“He's not just a pretty face and a brilliant mind. Those of us who've attended his classes know he's also humble and respectful.

This is probably the first time I've seen him make such a bold move," a student shared.

“A top-tier doctor teamed up with a successful manager? I'm all in for this duo!" one enthusiast wrote.

"And the best part? They look so good together!" another echoed.

"It's more than just their looks. One's a beacon in entertainment while the other's a savior in the medical field. Together, they're unstoppable!"

Holden couldn't help but notice the online uproar. The discussion threads linking Mitchel and Ariana were overflowing with views and comments.

Holden's eyes lingered on his phone, a storm of jealousy brewing inside. No matter how hard he tried to shake it off, he felt trapped, like a spectator watching a scene he didn't want to see.

After wrestling with his emotions, he placed the phone down, his face masked in shadow. He turned to Shawn, his voice carrying an edge.

"I want the online chatter silenced. Find out where the rumors started and squash them."

As days turned, the virtual storm calmed, but a noticeable shift clouded the atmosphere at Fredrick Group. Whispers circulated that Holden was getting cold feet about the wedding, gauging by his sour moods.

But Shawn knew better. Holden wasn't worried about the wedding; he was drowning in the green-eyed monster called jealousy.

Holden couldn't help himself. Even as jealousy gnawed at him, he hungrily consumed every piece of news about Ariana and Mitchel.

It was like he was addicted to his own pain, seeking it out again and again.

As Shawn walked into the office, he hesitated, sensing the tension.

Holding out some documents, he took a breath and said, "Miss Pierre's been seen with Zayden again."