Navigating by the provided directions, Ariana made her way to the renowned mansion district of Half-hill Villa, a locale synonymous with opulence.

At the district's entrance, she showed her credentials and journeyed through a lush, expansive park before the grand estates came into view. Strategically placed, the villas began at the perimeter and became increasingly grandiose as one moved inward, elevated by the ascending hillside.

Ariana had heard tales of Half-hill Villa. The outer-ring villas were within reach for the reasonably affluent. However, venturing inward, the prices skyrocketed, and land was measured not in acres but inches.

Beyond financial prowess, ownership within Half-hill Villa demanded an illustrious Lineage.

Surveying the lavish homes, even the well-traveled Ariana was momentarily taken aback. The area emanated an undeniable air of prestige, making even the outskirts seem almost suffocating. It was a challenging environment for nurturing young minds.

Presumably, the esteemed Fredrick family didn't dwell on the periphery.

Guided by a sleek, black lead car, Ariana ventured further into the enclave. After a prolonged drive that extended beyond her expectations, she grew restless. How much further could it be?

As the lead vehicle finally came to a halt, Ariana's gaze shifted forward, and she was left momentarily breathless.

She was aware of the Fredrick family's affluence, but the reality surpassed her wildest imaginations.

An imposing iron gate stood before her, and through its grandeur, Ariana glimpsed the majestic manor. It wasn't merely a villa; it was an expansive estate resembling a castle. Positioned at the zenith of Half-hill Villa, it offered a commanding view of the entire neighborhood and the cityscape of Eleymond.

Still processing the spectacle, Ariana handed her invitation to the gatekeeper. In response, several vehicles approached to escort her up the extensive driveway. After a ten-minute journey, she reached the entrance of the magnificent abode.

As she parked, a distinguished man in his fifties approached her.

"I'm the individual who reached out to you. Please, call me Devin," he greeted warmly.

"Hello," Ariana replied, offering her hand and presenting her credentials alongside the invitation.

After a brief inspection, Devin beckoned her inside and promptly offered tea and refreshments.

“Mr. Fredrick is currently on a conference call upstairs. He will join us momentarily. In the meantime, please make yourself comfortable."

Ariana nodded, a rush of anticipation filling her. She had heard of Holden Fredrick, and with Melon's insistence that he bore a resemblance to Theodore, her curiosity was piqued.

Observing Ariana's continued concealment, Devin remarked, “You're quite safe here. If you'd like, you can remove your hat and mask."

While she understood that retaining her disguise indoors might appear uncouth, Ariana hesitated, fearing an unwelcome reaction from Sadie.

The last thing she wanted was for any adult disagreements to compromise the child's therapy session.