Ariana's hand, mid-chop with vegetables, hesitated briefly, and a sigh escaped her lips. “I don't know."

“I understand. I'm just asking," Judy immediately reassured her, implying that there was no need for her to feel pressured.

Judy empathized with Ariana's predicament. After all, Holden had forgotten their past together, and the addition of Sadie and Adele in the picture only added layers of complication. It was indeed a difficult situation for Ariana.

Feeling for Ariana, Judy couldn't help but say, “In all honesty, it's clear that Holden still cares about you and is genuinely concerned for you. I believe he'll sort out these matters and eventually come back to you."

Judy couldn't resist offering a few words in defense of Holden. After all, they had been such a perfect match and deeply in love before.

It would be a shame to let that love burn out instead of rekindling fit.

Just then, Rodney's voice interrupted their conversation from behind.

“By the way, Mitchell will be here shortly. Judy, please get his favorite coffee ready.”

Ariana was taken aback and blurted out, “Wasn't he supposed to return after two months?"

Rodney smiled and explained, "I had him come back early. Research seems to have no end, and a few days ago, that kid had a stomach issue and ended up in the hospital. If his assistant hadn't let me know, he probably would've kept pushing himself."

As Rodney rambled on, he carefully observed Ariana's expression. He continued meaningfully, “He doesn't even know how to take care of his own health. That's why I had to practically force him to come back and take a break."

While Rodney went on, Ariana furrowed her brows slightly, her eyes reflecting genuine concern.

Having witnessed Mitchel's tireless work ethic before, she had always harbored worries that he might collapse in the operating room someday.

Now, hearing about his hospitalization for a stomach ailment, she knew it must be serious.

Although she couldn't reciprocate his love, Ariana harbored a deep sense of gratitude towards Mitchel. She sincerely hoped for his well-being and didn't want anything untoward to happen to him.

Meanwhile, Rodney discreetly observed the subtle shifts in Ariana's expression. As anticipated, the mention of Mitchel's stomach issue elicited a genuine, worried look from Ariana.

Seeing this, Rodney couldn't help but smile. It seemed apparent that a gentle nudge was necessary for Mitchel. Otherwise, he might remain consumed by research, neglecting the opportunity to spend time with Ariana.

Rodney couldn't care less about Mitchel's research. If Mitchel had spent more time focusing on Ariana and advancing their relationship, his years of chasing after her would have paid off, and he wouldn't have failed to bring her to the Chadwick family.

As they chatted, the front door swung open, and Melon's cheerful voice exclaimed, "Mitchel!"

Leaving the kitchen, Ariana and Rodney joined the welcoming scene.