Shawn made quite the effort but finally managed to catch up to Ariana. He poured his heart into convincing her, and at last, she agreed to let him drive her home.

During the ride, Ariana was deep in thought, her mood a mix of many emotions. She didn't show much on her face, maintaining a calm expression.

Looking through the car window, the world outside blurred by, but Sadie's earlier accusations played on repeat in Ariana's mind, striking her as absurd.

Who was really the homewrecker in all of this? Ariana had known Theodore before Sadie did. She was his wife, and Theodore was none other than Holden himself.

But Sadie? She had merely taken advantage of his memory loss.

Moreover, Ariana couldn't shake off the suspicion that Sadie had always been after her, aware of her history with Theodore.

Sadie was the one who had the audacity to use her circumstances and her child to claim moral superiority and slander her.

Ariana couldn't help but scoff, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

The entire scenario appeared ridiculous to her.

Shawn kept stealing glances at Ariana through the rearview mirror. He felt compelled to comfort her, saying, "Miss Edwards, try not to let Sadie's words get to you. Mr. Fredrick really values you. You're a priority to him. He skipped a billion-dollar deal just for you. It's obvious you're very special to Mr. Fredrick."

Hearing this, Ariana sneered, "Really?"

Shawn nodded earnestly, eager to prove his point. "There was this one time, a business partner flew in from Yland for a deal worth billions. It was a major opportunity for the company. But the moment Mr. Fredrick heard you were in trouble, he dropped everything to be by your side. And not just that time, there are other instances, too..."

Ariana listened, then replied with a scoff, "Sure, he's come to my rescue, and I appreciate it. But what about Sadie? He's good to her as well, right?"

Shawn paused, considering his response. When it came to material support, Holden had always been generous with Sadie. Whether it was jewelry, sponsorship deals, or money, if Sadie asked and it was within reason, Holden would make it happen.

At the heart of it, Holden had showered Sadie with gifts mainly for Adele's sake.

"Miss Edwards, there seems to be a misunderstanding. Mr. Fredrick doesn't actually care for Sadie. He only gives her what she wants because he feels obligated to Adele. But truthfully, those close to Mr. Fredrick know he doesn't love her," Shawn said.

Watching Ariana's face as he spoke, Shawn added, "Also, to be completely honest, Mr. Fredrick doesn't have much impression of Sadie, either. For the last five years, Mr. Fredrick has been Living according to Aldus' plans. Aldus watches him closely and never lets him ask about things from the past."

After a pause, he continued, “I often find him sitting by himself in the dark, staring up at the sky, deep in thought, yet he never shares his thoughts or desires. Despite being surrounded by people, he appears to be disconnected from everyone, including Sadie. It was only a year ago that Sadie showed up out of nowhere. Before that, Mr. Fredrick seemed unaware of her existence."

Ariana listened in silence, yet she was puzzled.

If Holden had no memory of Sadie, could it be possible he had been with her before losing his memory?