She wrestled with her reluctance to return to Holden's family home.

She knew she couldn't turn to Sarah, who was pregnant with Aziel in her place.

After a moment of consideration, Ariana spoke up, her voice tinged with resolve. "Then I'll stay at a hotel."

“But you haven't brought anything with you, and a hotel might not provide all the necessities you require. It's not ideal, especially given the circumstances. Just come back with me," Holden said. With decisive action, he started the car and drove them back to his house.

As Holden's car pulled up outside the Fredrick family home, Melon, catching sight of it from upstairs, dashed down eagerly. He wanted to ask Holden why he had left in a hurry earlier.

Melon's anticipation turned to astonishment as he saw Ariana stepping out of the vehicle.

Despite Holden's efforts to shield Ariana with his coat, the telltale traces of red paint still adorned her face and hair.

Initially failing to recognize the substance, Melon's concern overtook him, and he hurried to Ariana's side, his voice trembling with worry. “Mommy! What happened to you? Are you hurt?"

Ariana reassured Melon with a gentle smile, her hand affectionately ruffling his hair. “I'm alright, sweetie. It was just an accidental encounter with some red paint."

Upon learning that the substance was paint, Melon's anxiety ebbed slightly, though concern still etched his features. "Mommy, you need to be more careful. Are you sure you're okay?"

"Don't worry, sweetheart. If Mommy ever gets hurt, I'll go to the hospital," Ariana said.

Holden also said, "You needn't worry, Melon. I'll take excellent care of Mommy. Why don't you head upstairs and keep Adele company?"

Melon hesitated, glancing between Holden and Ariana before nodding reluctantly. He ascended the stairs, his gaze darting back to them intermittently.

Holden guided Ariana upstairs, informing her, “There aren't any toiletries in the guest room, but you can use the bathroom in my room. It's fully stocked with everything you need."

Ariana's incredulous gaze met Holden's, but she refrained from questioning further.

Once in the room, Holden ushered Ariana to the sofa, allowing her a moment to rest. With quiet efficiency, he disappeared into the bathroom, preparing warm water and clean pajamas.

After everything was meticulously arranged, Holden exited the bathroom and asked Ariana to go in.

Ariana stripped off her paint-stained clothes and eased herself into the soothing warmth of the bathtub, letting out a contented sigh as she began to lather away the paint on her.

Despite her efforts, only a fraction yielded to her relentless scrubbing.

At that moment, a gentle knock echoed through the door. Holden's voice followed, inquiring, "Are you finished showering? Mind if I come in? I bought some special bath products for removing paint."