Upon hearing that, Adele's gaze lifted to Holden, as if seeking his approval.

Smiling tenderly at her, Holden uttered, “Blowing out the candles is an indispensable ritual on birthdays. Without it, the celebration lacks significance."

After Holden finished speaking, Adele vigorously nodded, directing her attention to the cake's adorned candles. She said, "Blow."

Holden retrieved a lighter, igniting the birthday candles. Meanwhile, Ariana procured a festive birthday hat from the shop, orchestrating Adele to settle between them. Together, they adorned her with the celebratory headpiece.

The shopkeeper, noting the intimate gathering, recognized the absence of other customers. Swiftly, she facilitated the moment by extinguishing the store lights.

Bathed in the gentle glow of candlelight, Holden and Ariana sat on Adele's sides. Ariana initiated applause and serenaded, “Happy birthday to you..."

Harmoniously, Holden joined, clapping and contributing his melodic rendition of the birthday anthem. As the last note lingered, Ariana beamed and said, "Adele, make a wish and blow out the candles."

Adele blinked, drew a deep breath, and gracefully blew the candles.

"You did great!" Ariana declared with a radiant smile, applauding.

Holden watched the heartwarming scene, affectionately tousling Adele's hair.

Adele's gaze shifted between Holden on her left and Ariana on her right. Her eyes sparkled.

Despite Adele's occasional struggle to articulate emotions, her joy emanated clearly. Ariana and Holden perceived it, and even Sonia, observing through the shop's window, sensed Adele's palpable happiness.

Sonia contemplated the photo she had just captured, showcasing the trio in the midst of their heartfelt celebration. A profound sense of emotion washed over her, leaving her moved by an inexplicable sentiment.

Despite her lingering frustration with Holden's unpredictable nature, Sonia couldn't deny the undeniable bond the three shared. As she watched from outside, their unity resembled a family, and her heart felt warm.

With a mix of emotions, Sonia's eyes welled up.

Rather than disrupting the intimate scene, she chose to communicate her departure discreetly. She sent a message to Ariana, explaining an urgent matter that required her immediate attention, and quietly left.

After the birthday jubilation subsided, the room brightened as the staff flicked on the lights, presenting a sumptuously wrapped cake.

Clutching a Polaroid camera, they grinned from ear to ear, remarking, "You guys are the epitome of a good-looking family! Can I snap a picture?"

Ariana, fond of Adele but mindful of her own identity, coughed awkwardly. To her, it felt like a tad far-fetched to be in a family photo with Holden and Adele.

Just as Ariana prepared to explain herself, she caught Adele's waiting gaze. Speechless, she found herself at a dilemma.