The first message was an emoji, which Ariana didn't bother to see. The subsequent text simply read, "Are you up?"

After a moment's hesitation, Ariana responded, "What's up?"

Holden was quick to reply, "BRD Group is launching a new product and we're considering Tyler for the advertisement. Are you interested? We could discuss it further tomorrow."

Ariana checked the time and sent a speechless emoji in response.

"It's 4 am, nearly daybreak, and you want to talk business at this hour?"

Holden apologized, "Sorry, I'm accustomed to working through the night and lost track of time.”

Below his text was an emoji of a dazed kitten.

Rubbing her forehead, Ariana replied, "You're a true workaholic. Remember, your health should be your priority. Work-life balance is key."

The mention of workaholic stirred up thoughts of another man who was always engrossed in his work. Shaking her head, she tried to push thoughts of Theodore aside. She didn't want to dwell on him anymore; it only served to upset her.

After some contemplation, she sent a message to Holden, "We will pass on the advertisement opportunity this time. Currently, Tyler is just a burgeoning star. He's not quite ready for an advertisement with a company like BRD Group. If we accept your proposal now, the potential losses could outweigh the gains."

Ariana was left with no choice. She had witnessed countless stars rise to fame overnight, only to watch their careers crumble soon after. She wanted Tyler to take a slow and steady path to success. A chance to work with BRD Group would certainly boost his fame, but fame alone was not sufficient for a lasting career.

Ariana believed that Tyler needed to establish a solid foundation and achieve notable accomplishments before becoming a true star. She wanted him to utilize his talent and focus on continuous improvement, waiting for the right moment to make a big impact.

Holden did not insist after Ariana's refusal, simply stating they could explore opportunities for collaboration in the future.

Just as Ariana was about to set down her phone, thinking the conversation had reached its conclusion, another message from Holden popped up, "Why are you up so late? Something on your mind?"

Ariana's text, punctuated with suspension points, reached him, and in response, Holden sent her a smiling emoji, asking, “Have I hit the bullseye?"

At times, Ariana questioned whether Holden had bugged her life. It seemed that whenever she faced trouble or sank into despair, he would magically appear and have a chat with her.

Ariana wasn't in the mood to spill her troubles, so she replied in a half-joking manner, "Can't I burn the midnight oil too?"

Holden's response was direct and without hesitation.

"That's unlike you!"

His message was accompanied by an adorable and friendly emoji, which led Ariana to believe that Holden was treating her as a friend.