"Speaking of which, where's Melon? He didn't come with you? It's been ages since I last saw him."

“He's not at the airport. It was too packed, so I had Sonia take him to where we're meeting up," Ariana explained.

“Oh, so Sonia was your partner in crime, keeping me out of the loop,”

Sarah said with a playful sigh.

“Come on, you're Sarah, the beautiful and kind-hearted star. You can't be that mad," Ariana said, trying to lighten the mood.

Sarah shot back with mock anger, "Who says I can't be? I'll shower Melon with so many kisses, he won't know what hit him!"

"That sounds like a threat. Melon might just make a run for it,"

Ariana said, letting out a laugh.

Soon, the car pulled up to a high-end spot that was tucked away from prying eyes. They headed up to a private room on the third floor.

Betsy was already there when they arrived.

Five years had done wonders for Betsy. Gone was her youthful naivety, replaced by a sophisticated polish that befitted a competent manager.

There were also a young man and woman in the room, both known musicians from Sarah's studio.

Betsy's eyes sparkled as she saw Ariana.

"You're back! It feels like forever!"

After they exchanged some quick hellos, Betsy looked past Ariana and asked, "So where's Melon? Didn't he come with you?"

Just then, Sonia burst into the room, her face etched with worry.

“Have any of you seen Melon? I stepped away to the restroom for just a second and he's gone!"

"What? Melon's missing?" Sarah's voice reverberated with urgent concern.

Ariana felt her mind go numb. Her usually obedient Melon! How could he have just wandered off?

She glanced at Sonia, hoping this was some kind of prank.