Ariana turned to see Tyler holding Melon, who looked up and sweetly called out, “Mom.” Tyler’s eyes crinkled as he smiled at Ariana, saying, “It’s been a while, Ariana.”
Over the years, Tyler had matured gracefully; his features had sharpened, and he looked even more attractive than before while still exuding a youthful appeal.
“Max Anderson!” Before Ariana could exchange pleasantries with Tyler, a stern voice interrupted. She turned to see Sonia storming toward them, visibly irate. “You little rascal, always running off!”
At Sonia’s scolding, Melon's body stiffened. He retreated further into Tyler’s arms, his face buried against Tyler’s chest as if mimicking an ostrich. His heart pounded. His godmother was angry, and she had even used his full name.
Ariana kept her face stern, choosing not to interfere, as she felt this would be a good learning experience for her son. Tyler, seeing Sonia’s advance, quickly stepped in to defend Melon.
“It's not his fault; he wasn’t running around. | found him sitting outside the restroom, and we started chatting. | thought a quick walk would be nice, but we lost track of time.”
Sonia, who had been about to tap Melon lightly on the head, paused as Tyler shielded the child.
“| had planned to take him for a short stroll before bringing him back to you. But when | didn’t find you in the private rooms, | realized everyone had gone looking for him.
The staff informed me, so we came down to find you.”
Angela’s Library
Somewhat mollified, Sonia withdrew her hand. Melon seized the opportunity to apologize.
“Mommy, godmother, please forgive me. | know | was wrong.”
Swayed by Melon’s remorseful expression, Sonia’s features softened and she chuckled. With a resigned sigh, Ariana took Melon from Tyler’s arms. She then asked, “I thought you were on a filming project. What brings you back all of a sudden?”
“Actually, we just wrapped up filming this morning. Since | had no other plans and heard about your gathering, | thought I'd stop by,”
Tyler explained, grinning.
Over the past year, Tyler had clinched the Best Actor award at the Golden Apple Film Festival. With his striking good looks and towering height of over six feet, Tyler had both the appearance and the talent to distinguish himself among young actors.
His calendar was jam-packed with various projects, leaving him Little time to visit home.
Just then, Sarah and the others rejoined the group. Seeing Melon securely in Ariana’s arms, they each exhaled a sigh of relief and playfully chided the boy for giving them a scare.