The situation seemed stuck in a loop, leaving Ariana somewhat frustrated.
All she wanted was to return a package! There were no hidden agendas on her side.
It was puzzling how Holden, who had never acted like this before, was now causing such a fuss.
Then again, Ariana mused, perhaps Sadieâs influence was behind Holdenâs odd behavior.
Since they got engaged, it looked like Sadie had a firm grip on him.
It was almost as if he had mastered the art of evading any suspicion.
Given this situation, Ariana decided not to press Shawn for Holdenâs contact details.
Yet, as she stared at the collection of figurines, unease lingered.
She felt a nudge to do something about it.
Something sparked in her mind.
Didnât Jessie provide Holdenâs number the last time? Maybe she could use that to get in touch.
She attempted to trace the contact linked to the phone number, but the system retorted that the number wasnât linked to any account.
Her frustration grew, and she contemplated dialing the number directly but hesitated before pressing the call button.
But then again, if Holden wasnât open to adding her, it was a clear sign he didnât desire much interaction.
There was no need to look bothersome.
Furthermore, calling at this hour could lead to misunderstandings with Sadie.
A sigh escaped Arianaâs lips as she pushed the phone aside, abandoning the idea.
She glanced at the figurines, pausing for a moment before sighing again.
Discarding them wasnât an option.
Well, if Holden enjoyed sending gifts, why not? Especially given his wealth.
With her decision made, Ariana gathered the figurines.
Meanwhile, the variety show she had signed up for was on the brink of commencing its filming.
Early morning saw Ariana dropping off Melon at Soniaâs place, then she set out to the studio where the show was set to unfold.
Upon her arrival, a flurry of activity filled the scene, a queue snaking outside the premises.
Since this first episode was essentially a live audition, more of a prelude than an official program, it was a warm-up of sorts.
Ariana fastened her work badge and followed the guidance of the staff to navigate her way to the studio.
Seven talent agencies were in the mix for the show, most being household names in the country, known for their record labels or launching renowned actors.
These were companies whose names instantly resonated with anyone.
The onsite assistants were familiar with the representatives of these agencies.
Spotting Arianaâs new face, one of them approached.
âHello, participants must present their assigned number cards at the entrance.
Itâs over there,â the assistant gestured toward the Lengthy line.
Ariana pointed at her work badge and presented her invitation letter with a smile.
âIâm here representing Landon Media.
â
âLandon Media?â The assistantâs brow furrowed, unfamiliar with the name.
After scrutinizing Arianaâs invitation letter and cross-referencing it with the registration list, the assistant conceded that she had enrolled.
Seemed like Landon Media was a smaller, relatively lesser-known entity.
The assistant contemplated for a moment, gauging Ariana, then nodded, directing her to a corner.
With her situated, the assistant moved on to other tasks.