Chapter 1701: Chapter 1711

Adele obediently stepped forward.

As they faced each other, Adele unexpectedly leaned her face into Ariana’s hand and softly called her, “Mommy.

”

Tears filled Ariana’s eyes.

Her fingers quivered as they touched Adele’s hair and face.

Finally, she mustered the strength to grasp Adele’s chubby hand.

When her larger hand finally clasped Adele’s smaller one, Ariana closed her eyes, and tears streamed down her face, soaking her hair and the pillow.

Her daughter… This was the daughter she had lost and now found.

For five years, she had dreamt countless times of her daughter’s return.

Now, that dream had become reality.

At that moment, Ariana felt that all her pain and hardships of the past five years had been worth it.

Ariana engaged with the two children briefly, but their interaction was limited to conversation.

Due to Ariana’s weak state, she couldn’t play with them.

Initially hesitant to disrupt the tender moment, Holden noticed Ariana’s evident fatigue.

He then requested Devin to escort the children away.

Reluctant to leave, Melon appealed to Holden, while Adele clung tightly to Ariana.

Holden knelt, patiently explaining everything until he ensured them that Devin would bring them back here the next day.

The children agreed and finally left.

Soon, only Holden and Ariana remained in the ward.

Tenderly, Holden wiped Ariana’s tears with a damp tissue and smiled softly.

“You must be weary.

You can sleep now.

”

“I’ve slept too long.

I don’t want to sleep anymore,” Ariana replied, shaking her head.

She was indeed a bit drowsy, but she feared she might not awaken once she drifted off.

Understanding her concern, Holden nodded, pulling his chair closer and gently tucking her hair behind her ear.

At that moment, Ariana suddenly said, “Thank you.

”

“Thank me?” Holden asked gently, perplexed.

“Thank me for what?”

“Thank you for…” Ariana coughed and took two deep breaths.

Then, she responded, “Our family has endured immense pain and separation.

It’s thanks to you that all four of us are together again.

”

Upon hearing this, Holden smiled warmly and shook his head.

“I should be the one thanking you.

Thank you for holding on so that I could be with you.

When you’re better, let’s hold a wedding again, okay?”

Holding Ariana’s hand, Holden asked gently and earnestly, “Ariana, will you marry me again?”

Ariana didn’t answer immediately, falling into a thoughtful silence.

Her reaction made Holden grip her hand tightly, a hint of nervousness flickering across his face.

He asked again quickly, “Will you marry me again?”

“I do,” Ariana answered softly, meeting his gaze.

“If I can survive.

”