Despite her lingering frustration with Holdenâs unpredictable nature, Sonia couldnât deny the undeniable bond the three shared.
As she watched from outside, their unity resembled a family, and her heart felt warm.
With a mix of emotions, Soniaâs eyes welled up.
Rather than disrupting the intimate scene, she chose to communicate her departure discreetly.
She sent a message to Ariana, explaining an urgent matter that required her immediate attention, and quietly left.
After the birthday jubilation subsided, the room brightened as the staff flicked on the lights, presenting a sumptuously wrapped cake.
Clutching a Polaroid camera, they grinned from ear to ear, remarking, âYou guys are the epitome of a good-looking family! Can I snap a picture?â
Ariana, fond of Adele but mindful of her own identity, coughed awkwardly.
To her, it felt like a tad far-fetched to be in a family photo with Holden and Adele.
Just as Ariana prepared to explain herself, she caught Adeleâs waiting gaze.
Speechless, she found herself at a dilemma.
If she didnât agree to join the photo, Adele would certainly feel bad, which was her last desire.
In a sudden turn of events, Holden chimed in, âSure, letâs take the photo.
â
Observing Holdenâs lack of explanation, Ariana followed suit and took a posture holding Adeleâs hand, letting the staff capture the familial moment.
Standing on either side of Adele, Holden and Ariana both held Adeleâs hands and looked toward the camera.
Adele, with traces of cream remnants on her cheeks, looked at the camera with infectious joy.
âOkay, one, two, three!â The Polaroid camera was raised by the staff and pointed at them.
Adele smiled pleasantly, and dimples formed at the corners of her Lips.
With the snap, a tangible memory was created, and the staff handed out c
opies after printing.
As Ariana marveled at Adeleâs radiant smile in the photograph, she couldnât contain her enthusiasm.
âThis is the first time Iâve seen Adele smiling so brightly.
â
Holding the photo, Ariana experienced an overwhelming joy.
Could this emotional rollercoaster signify an improvement in Adeleâs condition?
Overwhelmed by genuine happiness, Ariana thought about how Adeleâs condition finally had hope and turned to Holden, exclaiming, âLook, this suggests thereâs a real chance for Adeleâs condition to get better.
Itâs truly wonderful!â
Holden, looking happy, responded with a smile, âSeeing Adele so happy, itâs the first time for me, too! Itâs all thanks to you; her condition started changing after you came into her life.
â
Slightly embarrassed by the compliments, Ariana gently touched Adeleâs head, meeting Holdenâs eyes.
A sudden realization hit her, and she slapped her forehead.
âAh!â She winced in pain, having forgotten about the wound on her head.
Concerned, Holden checked her wound immediately, relieved to find it unharmed.
Frowning, he asked, âWhat got you so excited?â