Ariana paused for a moment before digging deeper: "However, a doctor friend of mine mentioned that a certain component in this drug might lead to dependency and potentially trigger health issues."

This time, there wasn't an immediate reply from the other side.

After a bit, Holden responded: "It appears your friend's medical expertise still requires some refinement.”

The message was brimming with aggression.

Ariana was taken by surprise.

Her interactions with Holden had always left a positive impression, with him usually engaging with her in a patient and gentle manner.

This was the first instance she encountered such confrontational words from him.

For some reason, Ariana's initial reaction was that he might have a grudge against Mitchel, but she promptly realized the two hadn't met, and she hadn't divulged Mitchel's name either.

She had momentarily Lost her reasoning.

However, upon further thought, it made sense that someone Like Holden would bristle if the side effects of a medication developed by his company's hospital were called into question, and his anger was inevitable.

Aware that he was already angry, Ariana decided not to provoke him further and sent him a message saying, "I understand, thank you."

Then she didn't continue asking.

He responded with a simple “ok" and offered no further commentary.

Ariana set her phone aside and perched on the edge of the bed, her thoughts fluctuating.

Judging from the accounts of both Holden and Mitchel, the same medication appeared to be two entirely different things from their respective perspectives.

From Mitchel's perspective, the drug's side effects posed serious risks, while from Holden's perspective, it seemed no more dangerous than a common sleeping pill.

Faced with these two completely opposite answers, who should she believe?

Meanwhile, on the other side.

Aziel was aware that Alina was currently living with Molly in her hometown. So, he wasn't concerned about Alina stumbling upon a drunk Sarah and growing anxious. With this assurance, he bravely escorted Sarah back to her home.

Leaning against Aziel, Sarah nuzzled her head into his shoulder, slightly dazed.