The thought of the only heir to BRD Group having only a nanny and no bodyguards around seemed absurd.

However, judging by Ariana's expression, it seemed she was buying the story. Was Ariana that easily fooled?

"So, he wears a mask because of the disfigurement?" Ariana asked, shocked by this new information.

Jennifer's words seemed to ring true and Ariana felt remorseful for her past actions. She realized that she had gone too far trying to remove Holden's mask last time and now understood why he wore a mask. No wonder there was no photo of Holden on the Internet. She couldn't help but frown at the thought of having wronged him.

“Exactly. Who wears a mask for no reason?" Jennifer replied seriously, hiding her inner laughter as she thought about how easily Ariana had been taken in.

Ariana frowned, feeling guilty for having tried to uncover Holden's true identity in the past.

Jennifer continued, painting a picture of Holden as a misunderstood and mistreated man.

“He only keeps a low profile and distances himself from others because of his traumatic past.

The nanny who saved him from the fire later kidnapped him! Can you believe that? No one has ever been genuinely kind to him; they only want to use him for his wealth and power.

"

Ariana listened with empathy in her heart.

“It's so sad," she whispered.

“Exactly," Jennifer continued, her tone sounding more and more genuine.

“Holden has been betrayed and used by those close to him, which is why he has become so guarded and cynical. But he actually doesn't have any true friends, which is why he was testing you. He never meant to cause you any harm."

Ariana listened silently, her mind absorbed by these new revelations.

"So, do you still harbor resentment toward him?" Jennifer queried with a hint of concern.

“Let bygones be bygones," she said, still a bit hesitant.

“But anyway, I don't think we'll cross paths again."

Jennifer could tell that Ariana was still annoyed, so she quickly ditched her smile and tried to ease Ariana's feelings.

"I understand that you're still upset. Holden can be rough around the edges, but that's just his way of navigating social interactions. That necklace in the box was purchased by royalty from another kingdom, but Holden was determined to retrieve it for you, knowing how important it was to your late mother. He really wants to make amends and be friends with you."