Holden was taken aback, looking at Ariana blankly.
Even in normal times, she seldom called him honey.
Ariana continued, âI am very happy these days because youâre back.
My best treasure is finally back to me.
Iâm so happy.
â
When Holden heard this and saw the sincerity in Arianaâs eyes, his chest swelled up.
It was as if a warm stream of air slowly flowed in his heart.
âYouâ¦â Holden started, a hint of shyness in his voice.
He looked at Ariana, feeling a rush of emotion, and gently ki*sed her.
âYes, Iâm back.
â Holden took Arianaâs hand and said, âYouâre my most precious and unique treasure.
â He was soothing her patiently when suddenly, Ariana covered her mouth and retched.
Holden froze.
The romantic words he was about to say got stuck in his throat.
He gently patted her back and asked, âHow are you feeling? Do you need to throw up?â
With a miserable look, Ariana replied, âI feel awful.
I need to go to the bathroom.
â
As she spoke, she tried to get up from the bed, but her legs gave way.
She nearly fell.
Holden quickly caught her and supported her to the bathroom.
He took her by the hand, helped her out of her pants, and carefully seated her on the toilet.
Ariana was so drunk that she could barely keep her eyes open, yet she managed to gaze at Holden.
With a shaky hand, she pushed him lightly and muttered, âLeave; I canât pee with you being here.
â
Seeing her struggle to even push him, Holden grew concerned and asked, âAre you sure you can manage on your own?â
âI can handle it! Now, please⦠Leave,â Ariana said, on the verge of tears, prompting Holden to reluctantly exit the bathroom.
He stayed close by, though, resting against the door, his ear tuned to any sound from inside.
His main worry was her possibly falling over.
Soon, the toilet flushed, but Ariana didnât reappear.
As Holden waited, a sudden noise of something falling made him anxious.
He quickly pushed the door open to see what had happened.
Inside, he found Ariana standing naked under the shower, surrounded by fallen bath products.
She looked up and turned on the water heater.
The warm water cascaded down her body.
Watching the steamy scene unfold, Holden couldnât help but gulp.
He asked, âAre you alright?â
Ariana shook her head slightly and slurred, âI need to shower; I smell like booze.
â
Holden exhaled deeply, concern lacing his voice.
âDo you think you can shower on your own?â
Hearing that, Ariana turned to look at Holden.
She paused for a moment, then gestured to Holden with a beckoning finger.
âYou! Come and help me.
â
Holden paused, unsure if he could keep his composure.
But Ariana had already stepped into the bathtub and closed her eyes, ready to relax.