Casting Sadie a frosty glance, Holden then lifted Adele and handed her to Devin, instructing, "Devin, take Adele outside for now."

Devin nodded in acknowledgment and departed with Adele, closing the door behind them.

Once the door closed, Sadie collapsed into tears, saying, “Holden, I'm so relieved you're safe."

Holden observed her with a smirk and said coldly, "Oh, really? You're still relieved I didn't meet the end you all wished for?"

Upon hearing that, Sadie tensed, recognizing that Holden had grouped her with Zayden. A shiver ran down her spine.

She feigned ignorance of his implication, exclaiming, "What do you mean? Adele and I have been praying for your safe return."

Holden regarded her with a faint chuckle, replying, “Is that right? I appreciate it."

His tone was devoid of emotion, concluding the conversation abruptly.

Speechless, Sadie lowered her gaze, too afraid to meet Holden's eyes.

The room lapsed into silence.

It was evident that Zayden was absent in times of crisis, leaving Sadie to fend for herself. Sadie realized she was merely a pawn for Zayden and that she couldn't afford to lose Holden's support. If Holden rejected her or retaliated, it would spell disaster for her.

Feeling scared and desperate, Sadie desperately searched for words that could clear her name and keep Holden on her side.

Lost in her thoughts, she failed to notice Holden's penetrating stare.

Suddenly, Holden uttered, "Helen Clarke."

Startled, Sadie flinched, her complexion draining as she locked eyes with Holden, her body freezing in place.

Holden fixed his gaze on Sadie, noting every subtle shift in her expression.

He observed as her expression shifted from disbelief to fear, a brief flash of panic and tension crossing her features.

Sadie attempted to compose herself, placing a hand on her chest and swallowing nervously before saying, “What's the matter, Holden? Why did you mention that name out of the blue? Who is she?"

Despite her efforts to remain calm, Sadie's heart raced uncontrollably, thudding faster and louder with each passing second, making it difficult for her to catch her breath.

Trying to conceal her panic, she put on a facade of calmness, though she unconsciously clutched her dress tightly, apprehensive about what might unfold next.