Just then, a bodyguard walked in.
âSomeone messed with the circuit breaker.
Want us to find out who?â
Rodney didnât answer and looked at Ariana.
With a history of seeing behind-the-scenes shenanigans, he saw this little trick as insignificant.
âDid you tick someone off?â he asked Ariana.
Ariana had her suspicions but brushed it off with a grin.
âLetâs not make a mountain out of a molehill.
Itâs one episode for me.
No need for a big scene.
â
Taking the cue, Rodney let it be.
Meanwhile, Judy was busy cheering up Melon.
Her joy echoed a bit louder than the rest, catching Rodneyâs occasional glance.
Ariana felt they might have interrupted Rodneyâs peace and considered gathering Melon to make a quiet exit.
Before she could say anything, Rodneyâs deep voice broke the silence.
âHey there, kiddo.
Come here.
Feels like ages since I last saw this little rascal.
â
âBut Iâm a sweet kid!â Melon said, with all the attitude a toddler could muster, his tiny hands on his hips.
Nonetheless, he hopped down from Judy and made his way to Rodney.
Rodney, often known for his stern expressions, couldnât help but smile at Melon.
He said, âOh, youâve turned into a sweet kiddo now, huh? Get closer, and let me have a look.
â
Melon giggled and got closer to Rodney.
Rodney laughed, lifting Melon and giving his belly a playful tickle.
Their laughter was infectious.
Watching the duo, Ariana felt a mix of shock and amusement.
She had never seen the usually stoic Rodney warm up to anyone this quickly.
Then again, Melon had that effect on people, a fact that made Arianaâs heart swell.
As the night grew darker, Melon had clearly charmed Rodney.
Holding onto Rodneyâs leg, Melon asked, âCan I have a sleepover in your room?â
Holding back a smile, Ariana responded, âWhat if you give him those famous flying kicks of yours when youâre asleep?â