Engulfed in these thoughts, tears began to form and slowly trailed down her cheeks.

Just then, the doorbell chimed. Hastily wiping her tears, Ariana answered, expecting perhaps a delivery. To her surprise, Rodney and Judy stood at her doorstep.

With a mix of shock and hospitality, Ariana welcomed them. "Mr. Chadwick, what brings you here? Please, come inside."

After stepping inside, Rodney cast a critical eye on Ariana's head injury and let out a disapproving sigh. "You're so young, yet the hospital seems to be your second residence now. You've barely recovered from a shoulder wound, and now, there's a head injury. You might be a grown woman, but you're proving to be more of a handful than Melon."

Ariana felt a twinge of embarrassment under Rodney's chiding gaze, yet she recognized his genuine concern.

It had been a long while since she had experienced such parental care. With a sheepish smile, she helped Judy carry the groceries into the kitchen.

“Mommy, who's here?" At that moment, Melon, accompanied by Adele, came down the stairs. His eyes sparkled with joy upon spotting Rodney in the living room. "Mr. Chadwick! Did you come to visit me?"

Rodney beckoned Melon over, and Melon dashed eagerly into his embrace.

Rodney hoisted Melon into his arms and affectionately patted his head.

He lifted Melon slightly and said with a smile, “Let's see if my little treasure has gotten a bit chubby."

“Mommy says being chubby is okay as long as I'm healthy," Melon replied, gazing up at Rodney.

“Your mommy is absolutely right. Are you enjoying kindergarten?"

Rodney asked.

Melon's eyes lit up with excitement as he eagerly shared his kindergarten experiences. It was then that Rodney noticed Adele standing quietly in the corner, clutching a stuffed toy, her expression one of solitude and vulnerability.

Recognizing her from the hospital, Rodney beckoned the little girl to come closer.

Adele hesitated at first but then slowly approached. Rodney reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of candy, offering it to her with a gentle smile.

Adele examined the candy, tilting her head. After a moment's contemplation, she accepted it. Then, looking up at Rodney, she mimicked Melon's earlier address, saying, "Mr. Chadwick."

The sweet call from Adele caused Rodney's heart to swell with happiness. He broke into hearty laughter, his smile revealing the genuine delight he felt. Affectionately, he patted Adele's head, and observing her comfort with the gesture, he decided to take it a step further, lifting her into his arms, too, and holding one child on each side.

As Rodney shared this tender moment with Adele, he found her both endearing and pitiable due to her illness.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Judy and Ariana were busy preparing ingredients. Leaning closer to Ariana, Judy asked in a hushed tone, “How are you and Theodore doing?"