As the video continued, it was only towards the end, amidst Arianaâs commentary, that the camera briefly turned her way.
A small change flickered across Holdenâs usually steady face.
He rewound the video, just a tad.
Because of the angle, only a portion of Arianaâs profile was in view.
That short glimpse made Holdenâs heart do a little jump.
He watched that part again and again, his forehead creased in confusion.
After several views, he sat back, a mix of surprise and disbelief swirling within.
That brief profile, that fleeting second.
How could she so closely resemble the woman heâd met on the cruise ship?
The next morning, Ariana was up early and made her way to the practice room.
In no time, everyone had gathered, mostly punctual.
Her eyes landed on the twin brothers, Franklin and Woodrow Chamberlain.
They were on time, but their faces were heavily painted with makeup, making them stand out.
Noticing they werenât going to remove it on their own, Ariana approached them.
âYou two, over here.
â
The twins glanced at each other, then followed her to a corner.
âWe agreed on no makeup today.
Whatâs with the heavy look?â Ariana asked.
The twins stood firm.
âThere are cameras here, and we just feel weird without makeup.
â
âYou look out of place with it now.
Go take it off.
â Arianaâs voice held a note of finality.
âBut.
.
â they said, stammering.
The twins started to protest, but Ariana cut them off.
âNow.
â
Realizing arguing was futile, the twins headed to the restroom.
When they emerged, their natural looks took the practice room by surprise.