Just then, a bodyguard walked in.
“Someone messed with the circuit breaker. Want us to find out who?”
Rodney didn’t answer and looked at Ariana.
With a history of seeing behind-the-scenes shenanigans, he saw this little trick as insignificant.
“Did you tick someone off?” he asked Ariana.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAriana had her suspicions but brushed it off with a grin.
“Let’s not make a mountain out of a molehill. It’s one episode for me. No need for a big scene.”
Taking the cue, Rodney let it be.
Meanwhile, Judy was busy cheering up Melon. Her joy echoed a bit louder than the rest, catching
Rodney’s occasional glance.
Ariana felt they might have interrupted Rodney’s peace and considered gathering Melon to make a
quiet exit. Before she could say anything, Rodney’s deep voice broke the silence.
“Hey there, kiddo. Come here. Feels like ages since I last saw this little rascal.”
“But I’m a sweet kid!” 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, couldn’t help but smile at Melon. He said, “Oh, you’ve
turned into a sweet kiddo now, huh? Get closer, and let me have a look.”
Melon giggled and got closer to Rodney.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm
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 Ariana’s heart swell.
As the night grew darker, Melon had clearly charmed Rodney. Holding onto Rodney’s leg, Melon asked, “Can I have a sleepover in your room?”
Holding back a smile, Ariana responded, “What if you give him those famous flying kicks of yours when you’re asleep?”