Holden couldnât shake the impact she was having on him.
Despite being clear-headed, her unintentional allure was hard to ignore.
Her actions and even her words stirred him deeply.
This was so unlike how he felt with Sadie.
With Sadie, he was always level-headed, but with Ariana, he felt off balance.
Remembering how Ariana had held him, calling him her true love, a thrill went through Holden.
His heart pounded and he wrestled to keep it steady.
Even as he tried to center himself, his heart gave in.
He sighed, a mix of frustration and acceptance, swung open the car door, and decided it was best to take her home.
Exiting the car, he missed Arianaâs faint whisper, saying, âTheodore, stay.
â Soon enough, she was swept into a deep sleep.
Holden got out of the car and cradled Ariana, making his way to the villaâs front door.
He rang the bell.
It was Melon who answered.
The child had been waiting, worried since Ariana hadnât returned.
Seeing Holden holding Ariana in that state, alarm flashed in his eyes.
âMommy, whatâs wrong with you?â he exclaimed, voice shaky.
Holden was quick to soothe him.
âSheâs fine.
Just had a bit too much to drink.
â
As he carried Ariana inside, it took Melon a moment to compose himself from the sudden wave of emotions.
âWhere should I take her?â Holden asked.
âUpstairs.
Iâll show you,â Melon replied, leading the way with quick, little steps.
In the bedroom, as Holden was setting Ariana on the bed, she suddenly sat upright, waving an arm.
âMore drinks! Letâs keep the party going!â
Gently, Holden eased her back down.
âYouâve had plenty tonight.
Weâll see about tomorrow.
â
But Ariana wasnât so easily convinced.