Mitchel lightly touched his cheek, his voice calm and composed.

"No need to worry.

It's merely a minor cut."

Something hit Ariana as she took a deep breath. Her gaze shifted in the direction where Holden had stood, but all she saw was his retreating back, accompanied by

Adrian.

Deep within her, she harbored certainty that the man Debora had mentioned was indeed the same person she knew. Adrian served as irrefutable evidence. As the vice president of BRD Group, his identity couldn't be counterfeited by just anyone.

Yet, Ariana couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment. Had Holden failed to recognize her? Had he chosen to ignore her presence? Or had he departed because she was there?

She could not comprehend why he hid his true face from her.

"Mitchel, would you like to change your clothes first?” Debora stepped forward, her concern evident as she spoke.

"We should also tend to the cut on your face to prevent any infection, no matter how minor."

"Indeed, Dr. Chadwick. Allow me to escort you to the lounge. We have prepared clothing for our esteemed guests," a waiter chimed in respectfully, having hurried over upon hearing the commotion.

Mitchel nodded, his gaze sweeping the surroundings. Then, looking down at Ariana, he calmly suggested, "Join me."

As soon as Mitchel finished speaking, all eyes turned towards Ariana. People were either watching her or gossiping. Debora, in particular, stood next to Mitchel and winked meaningfully at Ariana, as if saying, "And you were saying you're just friends?"

Ariana didn't know how to respond. It would be embarrassing if she refused him, but why did she go with him? Why did he change his clothes and take her there?

The waiter, with his sharp eyes, noticed Ariana's embarrassment and tried to smooth things over.

"Miss, your dress is also stained by the wine. There are spare new lady's clothes in the lounge. You can get changed there, by the way. Our hotel's lounge has two separate dressing rooms, which are quite convenient."

“Okay, lead the way," she replied.

Once Mitchel and Ariana left, the onlookers could no longer contain their curiosity.

Despite being engrossed in academic research all day, they were also adept at indulging in gossip.

“Mr. Chadwick has never had a romantic involvement with women. What could have happened this time? Why is he bringing a female companion with him?"