As evening approached, the old man's attitude became a bit more gentle. He escorted them to the door, giving them a nod as he said, "You both have put in a lot of effort today. It's time for you to head home."

The topic of the surgery wasn't brought up again. Ariana and Calvin simply nodded their heads and left.

On their journey back, Calvin was filled with a sense of disappointment and remorse. He looked down and apologized to Ariana, "I'm so sorry, Ariana. You wouldn't have had to go through all this if it weren't for me. Perhaps we should think about finding a different doctor."

Ariana slumped in her seat and said, "No, he was right. It's possible that other surgeons won't be able to do what he can."

After a pause, she added, “Don't lose hope yet. The old doctor seemed a bit more approachable before we left. There's still a chance. Plus, talented people often have their quirks."

In the middle of their conversation, Ariana got a text on her phone.

She checked it and discovered it was from the doctor's assistant, giving them the time and place for Calvin's first appointment.

Ariana couldn't contain her excitement and promptly shared the news with Calvin, exclaiming, "Does this mean he has agreed? That's amazing!"

Calvin, too, was overjoyed upon reading the message. Both of them were happy, realizing their efforts throughout the day had finally paid off.

After sorting out some details with the assistant, Calvin drove Ariana to her place before heading to his own.

As Ariana approached her home, she saw a black car parked by the gate and instantly knew it was Holden's car.

A part of her felt a surge of happiness and anticipation. Could it be Holden?

Yet, the next moment, Ariana composed herself and decided not to hurry inside. She chose to call Randell instead.

Once the call connected, Ariana inquired, “Where are you and Melon? Are you guys at home?"

Randell answered, "I've been here since I dropped Melon off. And, well..."

After pausing briefly, Randell added, "Mr. Fredrick is here, too. Melon's been pestering Mr. Fredrick to cook for him. Do you think this is a bit much? Given Mr. Fredrick's status and all..."

While saying this, Randell sneakily looked over at Holden and Melon, amazed by the whole situation.

The last time Ariana couldn't make it to Melcorn, he had attended the meeting for her and met Holden. Holden had seemed cold and intimidating.

Yet here was Holden, the esteemed leader of the Fredrick Group, showing such a gentle and patient side in private. It almost made Randell question if this was the same person he had encountered before.

True to Ariana's expectations, Holden was indeed at home.