She was aware Holden knew Mitchel, and vice versa, but she proceeded with the introductions anyway. “Holden, this is Dr. Chadwick.”
Turning to Mitchel, she continued, “And this is Holden Fredrick. He is also… Theodore Anderson.”
Mitchel, unfazed by the introduction, simply nodded and offered Holden a polite smile, saying, “I’m glad to see you’re still alive.”
Holden, hiding his irritation, responded with a broad smile. “I’ve heard you’ve been looking after Ariana and Melon well. Thank you for that.”
Seeking to shift the conversation, he mentioned, “I’ve heard about the Jovanni family’s recent venture into medical equipment. If there’s any way I can assist, please let me know. Your dedication over the years is truly appreciated, Dr. Chadwick.”
Mitchel acknowledged the offer with a polite nod, replying, “Thank you, Mr. Fredrick.”
Despite the polite exchange, the air was charged with tension.
Attempting to break the ice, Ariana suggested, “We’ve just picked up plenty of groceries. Would you like to join us for dinner, Mitchel?”
As Mitchel was about to decline, Holden, ever the gracious host, interjected, “Please, stay for dinner. We’re all friends here.”
Mitchel glanced at Holden. Then, with a smile, he said, “Well then, I’ll stay.”
While Holden and Mitchel attempted to assist with the cooking, Ariana promptly shooed them away. Dinner was swiftly prepared.
As they settled around the dinner table, only Melon seemed content.
An awkward tension hung palpably among the three adults.
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Ariana, in particular, felt the strain as she sat beside Melon, with the two men seated opposite them. Even without lifting her head, she could sense the tension between Holden and Mitchel.
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Mitchel maintained his usual demeanor, yet Holden couldn’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy, despite his feigned indifference.
Mitchel, well-acquainted with Ariana’s and Melon’s preferences, took on the role of host effortlessly. He continuously picked food for them at the table, occasionally advising, “Give this a try, Ariana. Melon, don’t overindulge that.”
Holden seethed with frustration, trapped by his amnesia. His memory loss had left him clueless about Ariana’s preferences, and he was not that familiar with Melon, making him unable to do anything now.
Though Holden maintained a facade of indifference, Ariana saw through his jealousy.
In a gesture of understanding, Ariana slid Holden’s favorite dish closer to Holden with a warm smile. “This used to be your favorite five years ago. I’m not sure if your tastes have changed since then.”
Instantly, Holden’s mood lifted. Accepting the plate Ariana offered, he grinned. “I still love it.”