Hearing Sonia's reasoned words, Ariana teetered on the brink of emotional collapse.

How could she have imagined it? She was certain she had seen him.

His familiar profile was etched into her memory. She couldn't be mistaken.

Almost in a trance, murmuring more to herself than anyone else,

Ariana insisted, “It's unthinkable for two people to look so identical, unless they were twins. But Theodore never had a twin brother."

Observing Ariana's near-hysterical state, Sonia felt a blend of frustration and empathy. In a soft yet firm voice, she said, "Enough.

If Theodore is truly alive, why hasn't he reached out to you all this time? You're degrading yourself, chasing his ghost like this.

Look at yourself! Maintain your dignity. Would you want Melon to see you come apart like this? Kids pick up on everything Ariana found a semblance of stability at the mention of her son.

"You're right. Let's focus on finding Melon," she said, forcing her tears back.

With renewed resolve, Ariana straightened her shoulders and walked purposefully toward the front desk, exuding poise. Watching her regain composure, Sonia let out a heavy sigh. Her heart weighed down with concern.

While everyone else had long accepted Theodore's demise, Ariana alone clung to fragile tendrils of hope.

If Theodore were indeed alive, yet had forsaken Ariana so inexplicably, Sonia privately vowed to make him regret it. With that thought, she took a deep breath and followed her friend.

Access to the security footage required authorization, so Sarah and Betsy went off to coordinate that. Growing impatient, Ariana and Sonia searched the club, scouring every corner for any sign of Melon.

After a fruitless lap around the premises, Ariana was about to regroup with the others when she heard a familiar, warm male voice from behind her.

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.