Exasperated yet voiceless, Catalina retorted, “Delightful or not, that doesn't answer my question."

Mitchel sighed.

"I merely invited her because an event like this necessitated a female companion. Don't read too much into it."

Catalina scoffed.

“You think I'm naive? I know why you've frequented Melcorn so often these past years. It's due to.."

But before she could press further, Mitchel interjected.

"The cake-cutting is about to start. We should head over."

Mitchel's diversion tactic worked, and the tension eased. Catalina gracefully redirected her focus, moving toward the bustling center of the banquet.

Amid the sea of attendees, Ariana found a quiet corner with Melon, savoring the delicacies presented.

Mitchel soon gravitated to them.

However, before any substantial conversation could ensue, family duties beckoned him.

This interruption recurred, but Ariana took it in stride.

"It's alright," she assured him, "Attend to your family. We're fine here."

With a brief nod and an apologetic look, Mitchel dashed off.

Melon, in the meantime, sat engrossed in the grandeur around him.

When he tried to place his juice back on the table, a slight miscalculation resulted in it cascading over Ariana's skirt.

"I'm so sorry, Mommy!" Melon's eyes widened in alarm.

"It's alright, darling," Ariana consoled, patting her wet skirt.

“Stay here and behave while I clean up, okay? No wandering off."

Promising to stay put, Melon watched his mother make her way to the restroom.