Ariana gazed at the brightly lit villa from her spot. She realized that entering now would mean meeting Holden, but...

She steadied herself and muttered, "It's okay. Melon already knows him well. There's no need for concern."

At that moment, she heard Holden's voice through the phone.

"Is Ariana on the line?" he asked.

Before Randell could reply, Ariana, flustered, cut in, “I-I just wanted to let you know I've got some work left, and I'll be home late. Since Holden's there, Melon can stay with him."

Rushing her words without waiting for an answer, Ariana quickly added, “I've got to go now. Bye."

She ended the call abruptly.

She couldn't pin down why she felt so nervous and hesitant, but one thing was crystal clear: she wasn't ready to face Holden just yet.

Suddenly, the door to the villa swung open, causing her to stiffen.

Like a scared cat, she scampered into a nearby cluster of trees.

Emerging from the villa was none other than Holden, who walked towards his car to grab his laptop.

Hiding in the tall grass, Ariana watched Holden's every move. She felt like she was intruding, spying on a moment not meant for her eyes.

But then, she reminded herself that this was her home. Why should she be the one feeling out of place?

It was all Holden's fault for not leaving. Otherwise, she wouldn't be lurking around her own property.

Holden secured his laptop, ready to head back in. However, a nagging sensation of being watched crept over him. He frowned and scanned the surroundings, his gaze eventually landing on the bushes nearby. He took cautious steps towards them.

Ariana, concealed behind a tree, held her breath, her heart pounding uncontrollably. She felt like a thief, hiding in the shadows.

Fortunately, Holden didn't venture deep. He looked around, saw nothing unusual, and made his way back to the villa.

Ariana let out a sigh of relief, yet she couldn't shake off how ridiculous her actions were.

Why was she sneaking around her own house? She hadn't done anything wrong. Why was she the one hiding? Wasn't this all Holden's fault?

He was the reason she was crouching here, becoming a feast for mosquitoes.