Exasperated, Ariana countered, “Can't you see through the lies? Those stories are the work of paparazzi, nothing more. I'll say it once more-there's absolutely nothing between Mitchel and me."

"Why call him back then?" Holden challenged, refusing to hand over the phone.

Rubbing her temples, Ariana replied, "He called me. It's only natural to find out why, isn't it?"

"And why must you inquire at this hour? You ignore my messages, yet rush to return his calls?" Holden's frustration was palpable.

"Because he was there for me when I needed help most. Without his intervention, neither Melon nor I would be here today. I'm not one to forget such kindness," Ariana said.