On the drive back, Holden chatted with Melon on the phone.

Holden noticed Melon’s voice getting sleepy, and even he yawned. But just when he was about to bid goodnight and end the call, a sharp “Mommy!” came from Melon’s side.

Holden hesitated. He was about to say goodnight, but now he held back. He listened intently, curious about the unexpected interruption.

A few silent beats passed before a drowsy female voice said, “Apologies, Melon borrowed my phone to ring you. Is it too late? Did we wake you?”

Hearing her voice, something inside Holden fluttered momentarily.

He brushed it off and replied, “It’s alright. I’m fond of Melon. If it makes him happy, that’s what counts.”

gentleness in Holden’s voice that he didn’t even

hide her own tiredness, “I’m relieved we didn’t disturb you. Melon just really misses

in response, secretly

here whenever he wants to talk. Don’t

Ariana sounded apologetic.

promise to keep

Ariana’s struggle to keep

parking his car, Holden found himself deep in reflection. He couldn’t shake off the sound

Ariana’s voice that

out his phone and scrolled through Ariana’s online

though they’d only recently connected, their chat history told

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