Her distant tone pierced Holden's heart.

He hesitated before cautiously inquiring, "How have you been lately?"

"I'm okay. I've returned to Melcorn," Ariana replied casually.

Holden wanted to broach the subject of those scandalous tabloid photos, but he couldn't bring himself to ask the burning question. He wanted to ask her if she was seeing someone new. But no matter how hard he tried, the words stuck in his throat.

He sensed that asking that question would strip away every layer of his vulnerability. It seemed as though there was nothing substantial between them, not even a proper conversation. So, what weight would his hesitant probing carry in the end? His remaining dignity prevented him from laying it all bare.